Home Alone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tomorrow is the big day: two children in school. Finn starts tomorrow at Columbus Montessori Education Center. He will be in Rain's former classroom with Pen and Margaret. I think he knows the ropes after taking Rain there for 2 years and that his first day will be a success! We had a lovely send off party for him tonight with chicken nuggets, french fries and pizza that was attended by Pappy, Elizabeth, Ma Jo and Grandpa! It was big fun, but the real fun begins tomorrow afternoon. I'll keep y'all posted. Here is a photo of the fun we had on this rainy, long weekend.

Indianola Alternative Arts Impact Elementary

Here is the schools' mission statement and a link to our website. It is an awesome place filled with caring teachers, staff and families. It is also filled with what appears to be a bunch of politically radical, queer, hippie, artsy intellectuals. XANADU! SCHOOL MISSION: We, the members of the Indianola Informal School community, believe that all children can achieve academic success. We believe that children enter school as active learners eager to continue the learning process by working with staff, other children, parents and volunteers. To this end, we will provide opportunities where children learn by doing and by interacting with their environment. We will provide strong positive teacher guidance so those children can take responsibility for their own learning. We will provide opportunities for children to express their knowledge and talents through visual art, music and dance. We will provide an environment, which encourages mutual respect and cultural understanding. We believe that children learn best from people who are lifelong learners. Therefore, we will continue providing opportunities for children and adults to learn simultaneously. Visit them at: www.indianolakids.com

And then there was FINN!

Okay, so I realize that this blog is Rain-centered, as I am sure Finn feels like most of the world is at times. Though I might argue he likes it that way, as Rain's fiercest and most ardent fan is his adoring, adorable brother, Finn. Thankfully life exists outside of Rain. Finn and I spent a lovely day at the art museum and here are some hightlights! Proud much, my beautiful stamp artist? Can you tell I am getting bored here?

"Do you have anymore questions?"

Rain's first day at Indianola Alternative Elementary was a great success! His enthusiasm is best demonstrated by his receptivity to questions; he usually balks at them. Today he repeatedly asked, "Do you have anymore questions," with great vigor. We are all excited and looking forward to Finn's adventures when he starts on Tuesday! Happy long weekend!!!!!!!!!

The coolest (and only one I could find) T-rex backpack!

Swensen, Plunkett, Juhl

Thanks to Ma Jo and Grandpa for the send off and the photo op:)

Out the Door!

Breakfast

Send off!

Well, I didn't take any pictures, but Rain's party last night was great! Upon his request, we had tacos, pizza, egg rolls and sesame chicken:) Pappy, Babydoll and Onnie were in attendance and we capped it all off with a trip for Jeni's ice cream (lavender wildberry). Good Morning! Rain did a great job this morning with his T-rex backpack and dinosaur lunch bag venturing out into the wild adventures of Kindergarten. He was the second student there and although initially shy, he quickly settled into observing some caterpillars at one of the work tables. The curriculum is student-driven, but Mrs. M has chosen the first unit of inquiry: monarch butterflies (Rain's favorite). Although Finn is distraught that he will not be studying them, Rain assures us he will tell us all about what he learns. Just as I assure you, my readers, to chronicle The Adventures of the Brothers Juhl in School!

Bring on the potlucks!

The K/1 picnic at Whetstone Park of Roses was a success and as the 31st approaches, Rain seems more relaxed and happy about starting school. We met lots of friends from his class and had a blast!