Well, here we are, the day has arrived! Today is the first day of school! The older kids will never admit to being excited, but their faces give it away. One of my daughters is positively beaming! I enjoy having the opportunity to see these small things and hear them speak in class. It's a unique perspective. They are in close proximity to me and yet so independent from me. This is our 8th homeschool year, but it's our 5th year with the cyber school. This year is all about change...they have a new learning system, new laptops and my oldest is now in high school so he has a mix of real time classes and self paced classes. Another new thing for us this year are electives. He picked some pretty awesome ones...web design and interactive game design! I'm looking forward to this school year, I always do. It's a new beginning, a new chapter in our lives and a welcome back to routine. The relaxed pace of summer is fleeting and routine has come upon us for a time. Speaking of which, my youngest routinely awoke the same time every day throughout the summer (oh how I longed for her to sleep in a little), and she finally picked TODAY to sleep in. ...sigh...

The Place I Live...part 7 one of my favorite spots

The Place I Live...part 6 the viaduct

Built in 1922, the viaduct is a well known feature in town. I admit that lately I've been intrigued with this structure. Maybe it stems from knowing that it's days are numbered. Or maybe because, until very recently, I've neglected to notice it and I'm making up for lost time. Whatever the reason, it has a certain character worth noting.