Ayla is six!

Ayla and Katherine had the time of their lives this weekend. We were all really tired from staying up too late but I think it was fun had by all (I hope). I enjoyed having my sisters here so much. Juli was here a few weeks ago and then having Erin and Rach here was so awesome. I have had family fever since Abby has been born and felt that draw to be near everyone. We are all busy, we all have full lives and its nice to be reminded how much we love each other. We spent Saturday at the mall (somethine I don't do very often) and had such a good afternoon.

Jared has asked the interesting question, "Can you teach me at home this year?" The main source of interest at first was that he believed that he could play his game cube all day instead of go to school. I immediatly explained the ropes of home school and what that would entail. He and Ayla are very excited at the prospect anyway and I am surprised by this. Our society has this idea that if your child wants to be at home with their family at a young age instead of with their peers that this is somehow not normal. I think it is absolutely wonderful that my children feel safe, loved and challenged enough at home to want to be here fulltime. We have family units for a myriad of reasons as my anthropology teacher would tell you. For organization, for effective government, etc etc. But the reality is that the family is ordained by God for the edification and strength of those who are a part of it. The best place to learn, to mature and to gain a testimony is in the home. I'm excited at the prospect of being a more effective teacher and leader in my children's lives. Whether they stay home or not.