October 31, 2011
Halloween 2011
The favorite holiday of the year is here. And the costume of the year....
Notice the swoop of bangs. I was told this added to the look of the costume. Must have worked because I think she made one stunning Cleopatra.
Group shot of the year.
We once again had the Sandoval gang over for pizza and trick or treating. Looks like this is becoming a tradition. I learned that trying to get a group shot of kids who are ready for trick or treating is quite difficult. Not too bad.
October 28, 2011
Nation's Day
The month of October at our school is dedicated to educating the kids on different cultures. Each class picks a different country and learns everything there is to know about the cultures, geography, etc on their chosen country. This year Sydney's class would be learning about Ancient Greece. I volunteered along with two other Moms to lead a Greek craft and snack session once a week for the month. During our first week together the girls made brooches and bracelets. While the boys made shields. Both to be used later in the big Nations Day event. Our snack would be a samplings of Greek Yogurts and yummy lemon cookies. Lemon being a Greek staple.
The next week we created Greek pottery masterpieces. I was so busy helping with this one that I didn't get any pictures taken. We studied the Greek pottery called Black or Red Figure. The pottery had either a black or red background with everyday objects painted in either red or black. We made Black Figure Vases, red clay with black clay objects for decoration.
Week three we made Greek Relief carvings out of Ivory soap. This one definitely taught the kids a lesson in patience and using a gentle touch. While the carving was easier then thought, too much pressure would crack the bar in two. I think all crafts went over really well with the kids. I got lots of thank you's and hugs for my efforts. And best of all I always love being with the kids in the classroom. Its a great way to get to know the classmates. For our snack I made a batch of nut free baklava. The baklava was a huge hit with the kids. Good to learn I can bake some things.
Week four would hold the big Nations Day celebration. Each class prepared for a presentation on stage. Our class would be re-enacting the great Ancient Rome vs. Ancient Greek Battles. The other third grade class was studying Ancient Rome. The presentations were first thing in the morning. Sydney was chosen to be one of the elephants used in battle. A coveted role I hear.
The other elephant would be portrayed by her best friend and partner in crime, Madison.
After the presentation, the third grade class would be re-enacting the first Olympic Games. We had the Javelin throw...
The ball toss...
The discus toss, and finally they galloped in the big chariot race.
After the games we gathered in the classroom for a Greek luncheon of Pizza. These are kids and our teacher hasn't had the best luck with Greek foods in the past. We had some crazy sword fights and good ole goofing off before I was off duty for a couple hours.
First, we got a few pictures. Here's Sydney and one of her many BFF's.
And a shot with the teacher of the year, Mrs. Tadewald.
The final event of the day was the annual parade of Nations. The kids walk the halls and outside perimeter to show off all the great costumes. Always a fun filled day at our school.
Of course we have video of the presentations.
October 23, 2011
AHG Family Game Night
Tonight was our first annual family game night. Each family was to bring one or two of their favorite games to share. I have to say I wasn't too excited about his event. But, it turned out to be a great night. The kids all had a blast just hanging out with each other. Sydney was much more into the social aspect of the night rather then the actual games. However this one did catch her attention for a bit.
October 16, 2011
Pumpkin Patch
This weekend was time for our annual trip to the pumpkin patch. Since Kayla was old enough to really enjoy the activity we decided to make the trip to the big pumpkin patch. This place also has mazes, petting farms, and other activities. We went straight to the pumpkin fields first. The hunt to find the perfect pumpkin was on.
You can tell when you spot the perfect pumpkin.
Here's the gang with their pumpkin finds.
After the pumpkin field we made a quick stop at the hay maze. I guess your never too big.
October 9, 2011
Thundercats Still Rule
We haven't been up to Leadville much since school started so we went up this weekend to check on things. Fall time here is always so weird for us. Its too cold for summer sports, yet not cold enough for winter fun. So, we had a nice lazy relaxing weekend up in the mountains.
Dad had the foresight to order a new TV show on Netflix for the girls to enjoy over the long weekend. Much to our surprise this show was a huge hit. Well, not too much of a surprise. After all it was a favorite of both of ours as kids. Good to see the genes passed on to our kiddos.
On Sunday we woke up to a light dusting of snow. Our first snowfall of the year. The big girls went straight outside to make snow angels.
And be silly for the camera.
