I wish I had time to tell you everything I think you would like to hear.  There really is so much!   Today the children worked hard and in unbelievable harmony.

First the children brought in the trash/recycle/yard waste cans.  They are much stronger and capable than you might suspect!  I will try to post a photo.

When we (no, they) scrubbed the trash/recycle can shed, Gavin led the (spontaneous) chant:  "How do we clean-up?"  And the children replied:  "teamwork, teamwork".  I was stunned.  Where did that come from?  How did they know how to answer?  How did Gavin know how to question?  It sounded like a protest crowd mantra.

We planted the sunflower seeds that Mrs. Peterson gave us after the farm tour.  BTW, it seems like all the children enjoyed the trip; I know I did.  I have extra seeds if anyone wants some. I'd like to show you all the great books we have about sunflowers (and planting).

We planted milkweed seeds.  As far as I know, the milkweed plant is the only place monarch butterflies will lay their eggs.  We have a milkweed plant in front of my house, next to the pink cradle, at the top of the driveway.  Hopefully we will have more plants in the play yard soon.

I will be ordering a new compost bin.  It is stainless steel, 9" high, and sits on the counter top.  It has a handle and a vented lid.  When it arrives, I will let the children take turns carrying it out, and stirring it into our worm compost pile.  We will be learning about worms (and their important job) with the help of "Wiggly Worms" book - and their actual experience, of course.  If you are interested in composting at home, I can show you the bin, and we can order together (probably save on shipping cost).

Last night, during my Admin. class, I was reminded of a wonderful resource for  the following needs:  child care, crisis intervention, emergency services,employment training, family support, health services, legal services, parent education, special needs, family planning.  The website is www.calparents.org.

That's about all for now.  I have a very important meeting to prepare for - the Parent's Meeting!