Last weekend we decorated the Christmas tree. We had a special meal for supper with apple pie for dessert. Then we enjoyed decorating the tree, which happens pretty fast with each kid putting up their own ornaments.

Last week we had our monthly elementary Music & Art day. These two families drive about 45 minutes from the provincial capital to participate. I teach music, Becca teaches art, we eat lunch together, and then the women have a time of prayer together while the kids play. This month we had a Christmas theme and the new music concept was tempo using Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker for examples. Micah and Maria helped decorate the room the day before.

We had a lovely Thanksgiving celebration last Friday – a day later so we could have a break after Becca’s birthday. It was a very nice relaxing evening, since I was able to get all the cooking done by 2pm. After we ate we had a time of singing and Scripture reading. Clara made a apple pie for dessert. (Also noticed the Thanksgiving embroidery Clara finished just in time for the holiday.) We’re so thankful for the many blessings God has given to us – Thank be to God.

We’re studying the Middle Ages, and two weeks ago we had a jousting tournament. The boys really got into it – I’m glad they had helmets with visors to protect their eyes! Maria especially enjoyed being a “pretty lady” at the event.