back to school!

Well, the new term is just lurking around the corner (Monday 31st Aug) and we have been busy preparing for the new school year. Jasmine has had a funky new haircut and looks very grown up! We've been out buying back to school clothes - which seems very surreal as it's just ordinary clothes and trainers rather than school uniform! We've opted for Walmart and Superstore stuff mainly as their clothes seem to get wrecked very quickly and it's not worth spending the extra for better quality clothing, only to see it come home with holes in the knees and all sorts of unimaginable but unshiftable stains down the front within the first week. I'm busy naming all their belongings as it's all sure to go astray in the first week too, and we've been out to buy the huge list of school stationery supplies that Jake needs now he's in Grade 6. When they get to grade 6, they have a long list of stuff to supply for themselves, and places like Staples are totally heaving with every conceivable marker, exercise book and duotang (yes, we had to find out what these were too!)you could imagine. Staples employ extra staff to help guide you round the store helping you locate these often mysterious accessories! We managed to get everything on the list I think, but goodness knows how he'll carry it all to school - I think we may have to go in the car on the first day!
The children only recently found out whose class they'll be in this year. They each received letters in mid August informing them of their new classes and teachers. All the classes get mixed up so they were busy phoning round finding out who was in whose class. Jake has Mrs Burnett (apparently 'waaay' strict, so that's good!)and Jasmine has Mrs Jacks in Grade 4 this year. Both seem pretty happy so that's good. The first day back includes a welcome breakfast for mums and dads too - so it looks like I'll be up and out early along with them!
Jake and Jasmine both have residential trips ahead this term. Jaz just has an overnight stay down south at Frank Slide, and Jake is heading off to Canmore for a 5 day outward bound trip. They've been busy saving up to help pay for their trips (which was strongly suggested and encouraged by school before the summer break, to give them an idea of how much these things cost) by doing chores around the house.
We've also been busy booking this terms sports and leisure activities. Jas is continuing with her swimming lessons and tumbling/trampolining class and is also starting springboard diving classes, as well as Brownies. Jake is continuing with drumming, and also starts basketball classes. I'm going to start curling (!!) and Neil is booked onto photography evening classes. We're all going to be busy bees that's for sure - especially once ski season arrives!