Each Fall, we try to visit our out-of-town kids and grandkids. Since Tom's retirement, we are a little more flexible and don't have to worry whether we go on a weekend or during the week. We like to go toward the beginning of school to check out where the grandkids spend their days! We arrived just as they were coming home from school. As is their habit, they did their homework immediately to get it out of the way. Good thing, too, since we wanted to visit that evening and they had school the next day! B went right to work on his math homework.
A is playing the flute this year and doing quite well. While she is a beginner on the flute, she has a great musical base from her time spent with Kindermusik and the violin. She's using the flute handed down from her mom. While B worked math homework, A practiced her flute.
This summer, A decided she would like to adopt some parakeets. Her parents had her do a little research into what it involves to take care of them to make sure she understood the commitment. She saved her money and at the end of the summer picked out her birds. When she comes home in the afternoons, she lets them out of their cage and works with them. It was fun to have them flying around her room. They didn't fly around long. They are already conditioned to know there is a treat waiting for them in the cage and will go back into the cage on their own.
After homework, we spent time in the backyard. They have a great tree swing their other granddad put up. You can really swing high and B loves to swing.
They've been watching this garden spider for a while. Looks scary, but this is a "good" spider.
The hummingbirds were beginning to show while we were there, too. I love watching hummingbirds and was able to take several pictures of this one out the den window. Having a long lense on the camera really helps! When we used to camp in Colorado we'd always try to get pictures of the hummingbirds, but they were always too far away for the point and shoot cameras we used. (Or too quick!) 
Building with Legos
Building with Legos
The next day we ate lunch with B then went to see his classroom and meet his teacher. 
Line leader!
Line leader!
B really likes his teacher.
That afternoon, we were able to tour A's school. It is a very cheerful building that is only 5 years old. 
Changing classes and having a locker is new this year!
She took us to all her classrooms and we were able to meet three of her teachers. In the science room, she demonstrated light generated power.
We certainly enjoyed our quick trip!
