As I write now, it is half term holiday, and over the last 2 months a lot has happened with the kids at school, so it is time to fill you in. Last time I spoke of Philip, all was very unhappy and very overwhelming, however after enduring the first 2 weeks of school we have seen a complete turnaround in his approach and appreciation. He really likes The Charter School, his subjects, his friends and the whole routine. In fact the other day, he said he will be sorry to leave. To express the extent of how much he enjoys his new environment, and how comfortable he feels, I will tell you a crazy story.

Recently, Philip came home saying that they were asking children who were interested in representing their class in school council, to prepare a speech. He was so keen to do it. I said to him that I thought it was crazy to do this, since he was only going to be at school for 7 more weeks, and that nobody would vote for him, due to this reason. His determination  however, trumped all my embarrassment and powers of persuasion. I spoke to his form teacher on the matter, and she said she was fine for him to do the speech, since it was good public speaking practice, but he would have to accept that he couldn’t actually be voted in. The last line of his speech went like this....”Even though I am going back to Australia in a number of weeks, I would be greatly honoured if I received just a few votes.” Bold and very cute. Actually it was a good speech, so much so, that his class awarded him the second highest tally of votes. His teacher agreed that Philip, since he had earned it, would be on school council until he leaves, and then someone shall replace him. As you can imagine, he came home pleased as punch, he was given a special badge, and has now gone to his first meeting where he suggested plans for a gardening club. All very hilarious! Stories aside, Philip is doing well. His favourite subjects are Drama, Philosophy for Children, Maths and Humanities. His lunchtime thrill is table tennis.

Lucy has just slotted straight back into school. Her new teacher Mr. Crewdston, is an Aussie, and she likes being in his class. Her only gripe was when the reputation of her older brother’s long distance running skills landed her on the school cross country team. They were hopeful she possessed the same talents. She complained wildly about the prospect, and I told her teacher she didn’t contain a single competitive bone in her body, but she did the race in the end, and came an amazing 13th out of 50. Not bad for someone who hates running. Lucy’s main enjoyment in life at the moment are her friends. Her best friend at school is Marija, and every Friday Lucy goes to her home for a play, a highlight of her week. At church her best friend is Sophie. They have been inseparable since the beginning...kindred spirits. Unfortunately for Sophie, Lucy is really going to leave a rather big gap at church, and the girls have been eager to set up Skype before we leave. This past Saturday was their final sleepover. Selina, Sophie’s mother always makes it extra special for the girls, and I think both girls can be very thankful for all the lovely memories they have made together.

Kathryn, has soldiered on this term. She has found the transition to Year 3 a little hard, and has dragged her feet a bit in wanting to go to school. Her teacher Miss Stevenson, has been very kind, and in spite of Kathryn’s perceptions, she is actually doing really well. The positives of school have been learning the recorder and doing ballet in PE class. Kathryn was given her own recorder, and she is faithful in practicing at home. As for her friends, her 2 church friends Jemima and Emma, have both had opportunities this term for play dates. She especially enjoyed a sleep over at Emma’s. It was her first one ever, which she was glad to have finally experienced. A childhood milestone.

As for Toby, he is really enjoying nursery. 3 days a week is perfect, for he does get tired, and still enjoys his days at home with me. Every week, we still go into town on one day. We are making our final tour of all the places that we have loved visiting. I say to him before leaving the house, “This shall be the last time we visit here, so let’s enjoy it!”. Places we have visited for the last time are.....The science museum, the natural history museum, the transport museum, the British museum and the Princess Diana playground. I think he might be the most cultured 4 year old I know. So, so thankful to God for my little friend, and all we’ve done together.