Young at Art Show

Three of our talented kids participated in an area wide art show- currently on display through July at the community center- and Cailyn was interviewed for the local paper regarding the show and her artistic philosophy. I enjoyed reading how each girl described what art meant to her and had quite a chuckle at how revealing those statements were. Cailyn's read: "Art is my meaning, a beautiful philosophy of my human potential. It is truth, the connotation that perhaps is the only way to accurately convey dreams. It is who I am, packed full of symbolism of my being." While Auburn's statement read: "Art is how I express myself without having to use words, which can be tedious and usually meaningless." And Rheannon simply said, "Art is joy."
I'm with Rhea on this one, their art definitely brings me joy.

Blue Hole

The four younger kids and I spent the afternoon at Blue Hole. This place is more than a park, for us it was home for several years and the kids all have a strong attachment to the place. It was nice to see Orion old enough to really compete at ring catching though I was amused to see that Rheannon's tree climbing has suffered with age- I guess now she realizes she could fall. Rowan and Willow tried their darndest to catch some shiners and then we all wandered down stream and experienced open-mouthed shock to discover that the creek isn't just low, but actually dry. I guess it's true that you can't go home again. I feel sorry for my kids watching this beloved childhood spot dry up and die.

First friends

Willow has many friends and is fortunate to have two that are very special. The little blondie in the swing, Helen, is Willow's "first friend." Her mommy, Lisa, caught Willow when she was born and I caught Helen. They have literally known each other their whole lives. Lucky girls.

Rheannon

I'm realizing I don't have many photos of Rhea. She's at that age where a camera pointed in her direction sends her flying for cover. Still I'm persistant and occasionally catch her with her guard down.

She is twelve now and has been attending the Montessori school for three years. They all love her there and say she's the heart of the school. I don't doubt it for a minute. We don't know if she'll go back next year as Orion is home schooling so it makes sense for her to as well- also her best friend starts high school next year and I know things won't be the same without her.

All things being equal

There is a debate around here as to who is taller- Cailyn or Auburn. I think it's too close to call.
Cailyn is done growing and Auburn might squeeze out a few more millimeters but it looks to me like they'll probably be the same height. They are both 5'8" so neither one is going to be wearing my pants- they do wear everything else though. Guess my hopes are pinned on Orion (height wise, not for the pants wearing).

Auburn

Auburn finished her junior year with honors and was given an internship at a graphic design studio in town. They love her work and are allowing her to use their equipment to make a portfolio of her own. She's a remarkable artist and a very unique young woman. I enjoy watching my kids each blaze their own trail. They are more self possessed and confident than I ever was. I guess I did something right.

River Days

Cailyn isn't the only one growing up. Orion seems to have grown about six inches in the last year and I doubt he's gained an ounce. He and Rowan and Rheannon are already more at home in the river than anywhere else this summer. They fish, swim, and enjoy each other. I'm glad we live within walking distance of the water- it's so hot here already that I'm contemplating moving into the fridge.

Willow is enjoying the water as well.