The Projects

Well, it is getting late and I should be wrapping things up for the evening.  However, as I was cleaning up the kitchen and prepping things in advance for another school day I had to stop and smile. This week both girls completed school projects (both of which were in the kitchen). I guess you could say they were very typical school projects. But looking at them I had to stop, think, and appreciate the moment.  My girls are 9 and 12. They poured themselves into theses projects. I love their creativity and desire to give their best.

Charis' project was math oriented and focused on researching populations of 5 countries. She could have pick two MUCH easier projects, but she picked the hardest one and did an amazing job! She went above and beyond by putting her project on a poster-board. She also added the Vein Digram ... just because she wanted to. 

Grace's project was to create a Totem Pole with a Spirit Animal. This activity was based on a book study her Pre AP English class did on Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikealsen. While she did not care for the book she took the project to heart and made sure every element of the pole represented her. It is hard to see all of her special details in the pictures below. She started with a Cross on top to represent her faith, her Spriti Animal is a Panda Bear, followed by a section on CYT including hand drawn images for all of the shows she has been in, and the bottom has a cello, books, and music. 

"My Spirit Animal is a Panda because: - Like a panda I have a lot of determination - Like a panda I have a positive outlook on life.  Like a panda I am peaceful, calm, and study."

Finally, sometimes in life there are moments. Simple moments that ground you and clarify your life experience. Sometimes these moments happen when cleaning the kitchen and two simple project fill your heart with appreciation. I am a mom of school aged girls. At times it is busy, at times it is trying, and at times I just have to smile to myself because this is one of the best parts of life. Having dinner with my family, going on neighborhood walks and bike rides and .... yes... school projects.  

First Day of School 2017-2018