It's no secret that we are homeschooling this year. It has so far been a big roller coaster and rather exhausting, but in it I have found so much joy. It has felt like coming home. I love having a platform and time to do things with my daughters that I want to do. I love reading to them, learning with them and discussing topics like self control. We all really enjoyed art this week. We read books about Henri Matisse and made paper cut-out art. 

The books we read (each more than once!) are:

• Matisse the king of color by Laurence Anholt
• Colorful Dreamer the story of Artist Henri Matisse by Marjorie Blain Parker
• A Bird or Two by Bijou Le Tord
• The Iridescence of Birds by Patricia MacLachlan

I had the girls copy out a couple of his quotes:

"Creativity takes courage." And, "There are always flowers for those who want to see them." Another good one is, "What I had to do, I did the best I could." And the last one that has stuck with me is, "My mother loved everything I did."

I got the idea for this project from the book, Playful Learning. We have three more artists to read about and mimic. I'm excited about this!

Turns out, princesses like math. Moments like these that make homeschooling just about the cutest thing ever. 

Holly and Greta had their last day of school last week. It's my belief that as soon as children begin elementary school, time accelerates. Another year done! They had a great year! We're looking forward to our summer schedule and more family time. Maeve is happy her sisters are home so much. 

I find an immense amount of joy in mothering, especially since Maeve was born. She has brought something really special into my home and into my heart. We all adore her and dote on her. 

Last Sunday, we had a few moments to snap some photos before church. I made all three dresses my daughters are wearing! Kind of a big deal, since time is something I don't have a ton of right now! Holly's dress is extra special. It's from a pattern that my mom used to make a dress for my eighth birthday. I loved that dress! It was blue and white stripes. My mom still had the pattern and when she offered it to me, I snatched it up. Holly loves her dress! 

I love these sweet girls and I love the man I made my babies with!

The weekend following my parents' visit, Jim flew in and spent the week working alongside Conor bouncing ideas and then Cathy came to spend a weekend. We sure do feel loved. Again, it's been such a blessing to live close to family! We look forward to seeing Jim and Cathy next weekend for Maeve's blessing.