School update

The first part of the school year wrapped up with the Halloween festivities then the kids had two weeks off for the Toussaint holiday. Both kids did really well these initial two months. They each tied for first place in their English class spelling bees and they both brought home great report cards.

Their French is progressing nicely. I'm so jealous of their pronunciation and accent. Each now uses French a little more outside of school -- although they still object vehemently when I respond to them in it.

Best is that Clay continues to settle into life here. His behavior is much improved over what it was a month or two ago. He also no longer complains about stomach aches in the mornings before school. With school starting again tomorrow after the two week break it'll be interesting to see whether he gets back into the groove or has a bit of a setback.

One of the great elements of our day-to-day Paris life is the after-school community at the park next to the kids' school. Almost every day groups of parents chat and large groups of kids play. This is a real highlight for the kids and, along with the goûter, the after-school treat/snack, it makes for a nice end to the school day. Let's hope that there is enough cooperation from the weather that we'll be able to continue doing this during the next few months.

Paige and her classmates getting ready to read their "scary stories"

English teacher Madame Knight and more classmates in Halloween garb

Map of the world showing where each of Paige's classmates is from

Kids getting candy (recognize the witch on the right?)

After-school fun