Back in routine

It's funny, by the end of term like most, I sooo look forwards to the holidays; the break in the old routine. It's the change I suppose, a change is as good a break as any.

As always, the days and weeks literally whizzed by...how does time do that? We had very good intentions and plans at the beginning of the season but so much had to change as the weather dictated. So here we are, somehow we've arrived in September with a whole new academic year ahead of us.
September always seems like a new beginning; a time to step back and reassess what we're doing.

The children are growing up fast both physically and mentally. They definitely have 'hollow leg syndrome' like their father and myself. Spindly bean poles that eat like they've never been fed!

Miss P is embarking on three IGCSE's this year (English, Physics and Environmental Management), she took Geography earlier this year and passed (:-) :-) :-)) so one 'token for the future' in the bag. She currently rather fancies a course in Fashion Design at Banbury College (in two years time). They have the most incredible and well equipped design suit. I wouldn't mind going there myself!
The Little Lady is ten now and if in school would be in her final primary year! She wants to be a midwife when she grows up and continues to have a very keen interest in babies and dolls. I'm stepping up the work load which she has reluctantly agreed to!
Small boy having just turned eight, is happy just plodding along. He spends much of his time pottering about outside bothering (sometimes caring for) wildlife. He grows more like his father daily in every way :-)
Yes, I know I said previously that we work mainly autonomously! It's the beginning of term......this sequence of events happens at this time every year. We start off very focused with strong intentions and then we realise that it's okay to relax a little and that children don't have to be taught to learn!

On the family life front, I am pleased to announce that after two weeks of solitary confinement on Ditchley Island, I am finally free once more. Poor little Blueberry car decided to snap it's cam belt one Tuesday evening after a short afternoon trip to visit friends. After being abandoned on the drive jacked up for most of the duration with a plastic green house erected to protect my dear Dad from the elements whilst he worked; looked more like a crime scene than a garage scene, little Blueberry is up and running once more and was more than ready after her long rest to escort us faithfully once more on life's little adventures! Yeah to daddy!! And yeah to the lovely lady who gave me some money at the beginning of the Summer for emergencies (or for treats). Shame that I had to spend it all on the emergency!

So onwards and upwards into Autumn! We had an 'end of Summer' gathering earlier this week; one of those lovely sunny evenings with a shared meal and bonfire.....mmmmmm. I'm reluctant to leave Summer quite yet as it does seem our sunny days were rather limited but it seems we have no choice. The early mornings and late evenings definitely have that feel of crispiness. It won't be long before the coats are out and the heating is turned on, then there are log fires to enjoy and cosy nights in playing with the children, not forgetting those lovely blustery walks on windy days swishing the fallen leaves as you go. Oh I do love Autumn....in fact, I actually love all of the seasons, even Winter!

Happy Saturday to you all!! XXXXXXX