Today was the last full day of school for the girls and we prepare to say goodbye to Banner Christian School with a very heavy heart. Teachers, administrators, fellow students and parents have embraced our daughters with nothing but love from the very first day they arrived. 
Anastasia distinguished herself as an outstanding student, receiving awards for highest GPA in art and algebra, and for behavioral excellence. Headmaster Dr. Tom Burkett praised her for work ethic and gave her great encouragement for her academic future, reminding her to make the study of scripture her top priority as she prepares to study for the GED and move onto college. 
Both girls were under tremendous pressure this year and we are so proud of what they accomplished. Galyna's Bible teacher says that she "blossomed" in the second half of the year and has shown great wonder and enthusiasm for serious study of the Bible. She made many friends, and this shot shows how sad she is to leave. Galyna's goal is to return after a year or two of getting back to basics in homeschool and we're going to leave that door open. Choosing a school is probably the most challenging part of adopting older kids, and our family will always be grateful to God for bringing us to Banner Christian School.
After three wonderful years, we had to say a tearful goodbye today to Tuckahoe Montessori School. It is so fitting that Christian was comforted by his teacher, as he and his classmates marched out. Calling "Miss Shelly" a teacher simply doesn't suffice. She has been such an important part of our son's life and has given him the most precious gift -- a love of learning. 
It was an especially emotional day as we bid farewell to a remarkable woman. "Miss Pat" is retiring 28 years after founding this wonderful school, the mission of which is to educate the "whole child." I learned much from her during many long conversations about education, and her devout Roman Catholic faith. I've been enriched by coming to understand how truly Catholic and liturgical a Montessori education is, to reflect the order of God's creation.
Miss Pat has brought great glory to God during a professional career devoted to education. She has been such a blessing to our family. How we will miss her!
I've never seen a more tradition-rich city than Richmond and it is not surprising that Miss Pat's daughter Amanda will take over as Director. It is institutions like TMS that make this a great city, and it is good to know that it is in such excellent hands. 
Christian with buddies Caleb and Anton - the "Pups" as Christian calls them.
In light of some of my recent self pitying posts, I've suddenly noticed how much joy we are surrounded by with our children. We are having a spectacularly beautiful Spring in Virginia, and our kids can't wait to go outside every day and play.
Christian has been reluctant to swing, but in the same week that he started riding his bike, he's conquered his fear of the swing! It's amazing to witness how much joy a child can have by simply swinging, and how much joy a parent gets by watching their children make progress. 
Galyna is delighted now that watermelon season is here! This girl could easily consume a watermelon a day. We call them "galla-melons" around the house. 
My older daughter has proven to be an excellent student, especially when it comes to studying the Bible. She reads and studies daily in her NIV and her Russian Bible, and has scored 100 on all her recent quizzes in Bible class. She actually scored 105 for acing the 91st Psalm - early!
Christian has a blast watching the rats race through the kitchen. So far the only injury we've had is when Gabriella sustained a tail ding after crashing into the pantry.
