September Updates

• MATTHEW loves to read his books. We are really concerned with his focus and attention in school, so tonight as I read to him I tried to ask several questions after every couple of sentences. At first he didn't know the answers and tried to rely only on the pictures, but then he started to listen better and be able to answer the questions. We have already met with his teacher, and she emails a behavior update often. She told us she is concerned he will miss learning because of his lack of focus and attention. These things are no surprise to us, however, we don't want his learning to be affected. Up until now, his lack of focus and attention, spontaneous behaviors, inattention to consequence or danger, has been a behavior issue. Now, it's affecting his learning. Please pray we find the interventions best for him at this time, and that he is able to show his teacher how smart he really is.
• Austin is starting to talk to me about school! For a month now, the boys came home and "good" is all I got. Austin loves to help me in the kitchen with dinner. One day last week as he helped me stir the soup, he said, "Mom, I'm going to tell you the names of all my friends at school." I was so excited! He told me all the kids who speak Spanish and about the girl in a wheelchair. He said he loves to help push her. He has told me more and more each day. The Kindergartners are already placed in reading groups. Currently, Austin is in the top group (I can't believe it). I hope he does well and tries hard to keep up. He enjoys leaving his classroom to visit another. He loves his teacher, Ms. Lawson, so much!
• Daddy says Maggie is beautiful and that we're going to be in trouble when she's older. She is so lovey right now giving kisses and hugs to mommy, daddy, and bubbies. She is too funny with them. She watches them and does everything they do (good and bad). They are equally sweet to her. She now sleeps in a big girl bed. It is special to me, because it was my bed when I was little. Last night after I left her room, she got out of bed with her blankie and doll, and crawled under her bed. When Jason and I went to sleep, I asked him to go check on her. He couldn't find her. We looked all over. Then, under the bed!
• Jason and I are trying to keep up! We love being together with nothing to do. These days that time doesn't come often enough. Between after school meetings, dance, soccer, tee-ball, etc, we barely find time for family, each other, and friends, much less chores! Tonight we started volunteering with Southland's backpack program. We finally found something to do as a family!! The boys were perfect! They we such big helpers. We will be doing this every other Thursday evening. Thanks mom and dad for watching Maggie. We are really enjoying time with our Life Group. This time of deep friendship, love, and accountability is absolutely necessary and priceless for me. The girls and I are doing Beth Moore's Esther bible study right now. It is great. If you want to deepen your knowledge of biblical history and apply it to today, you must study God's word with Beth. However, I have to say that you need her with you! The videos are incredible.
• It's almost here....... My FAVORITE time of year!!! I love fall!
  

  Maggie in (and under) her big girl bed!


• I also want to ask for prayers for the Covington family. One of my most cared for students from Tates Creek was shot and killed last night. I haven't known him the last few years, but in high school he was outgoing, fun, athletic, and he cared a lot for me. I spent my first three years of teaching with him. He was even my student aide his senior year. He always knew if I attended one of his games, and he talked with me about girl troubles. I remember him fondly and pray for his family as they mourn the too early loss of their son Daniel.