Valentine's Day wood working was the story at the 1407. We spent the day painting and building. Ok, ok. Andy spent the day painting and building, and I spend the day assisting. I am really good and getting things and holding or handing off tools. In between my fetching and handling, I did laundry and engaged with the kids and some board games and even made the meals for the day (gasp!!!). It was bUsY and we didn't sit down for happy hour until after 6pm. (Double gasp!!)

 Happy Vday!  And Re(a) Day!  The Ninja and the Gnome were already bouncing early this morning, so excited for their Valentine's Day parties at school.

About six weeks ago, Bennett was invited to participate in Oak Ridge Elementary Battle of the Books.  This is an honor given to students from each grade level, and Bennett was super excited to be involved.  Each participate had to read seven books, from a list of nine.  (B read all nine.)  After reading each selection, students completed a corresponding note sheet, and began the next book.  Reading was done at home.  The Battle of the Books is like a trivia contest, and students were put into teams of three, and asked questions that could pertain to any of the nine books from the list.  If a question was answered incorrectly, the team was eliminated.

The final battle was held today, and Andy was able to attend, and watch Bennett take home the championship prize!!

Bennett's team nabbed first place, and not only won official bragging rights, but each member received a $7 gift card to Barnes & Noble!

For my birthday this year, I got exactly what I wanted - a fit bit and an entire year.  I thought I was turning 38, until my mama reminded me that I was actually only 37.  Sa-WEET!!  Pretty sure this will be the best year ever.

We had Bennett's "spring" conference at 5pm.  Bennett was super excited to meet with Mr. Putz, and see where his dots landed.  As the above pics demonstrate, his dots look pretty great.  I know these dots mean nothing, and are a snapshot of his learning.  I tell parents all the time, that while these reports communicate standardized test scores, as a teacher, I am much more concerned with overall growth, and character, not plots on a graph.  That being said, I was incredibly proud of our little scholar, and his off the chart dots.
When Mr. Putz started talking about Bennett's behavior and character, the boy and I both teared up.  We know Bennett is a great kid - but hearing it from his favorite teacher was important to us.  Mr. Putz thinks that Bennett is thoughtful, and considerate, and kind.  He helps his friends, shares his resources and does things like pick up trash and throw it away - when no one is looking.

 He wants to do well, and he works hard during class time to do his best - but, he also knows when to have fun!  He is witty and loves to crack jokes with his classmates and teachers.

Good work, Bennett Daniel.  Daddy and I could not be more impressed with your academics, and character, and yes - your dots.  Remember, we are so proud of you and love you.  Always, and forever, and no matter what...

Thanks, Amanda, for signing your kid's reading calendar. Next time, could you write your first and last name? Maybe even in cursive?

Thank goodness I have a master's degree in education, and was trained to spot a forgery.

(Aside note: Student said mom never writes last name, just "Amanda". To which I instruct the kid to go home, and tell Amanda that Ms. Prose requires a first and last name on the signature line. Kid almost rolls eyes, changes mind, and reluctantly puts slip back in take home folder.)

Weekend warriors! Project Hip Cowboy continued this weekend, and the Mister is super impressed with the speed (and accuracy) of this one.

I'm sure it's because he let me use a roller.

Bennett thought he wanted to help tape, but soon discovered it was a terrible job. I still don't understand the purpose, but I follow the directions from the foreman.