The kids in Nelson ...

I recently took the kids to Edna Turner library in Nelson. Its the library for Nelson region and its quite big and very nice. They have a pretty big kids area, a coloring desk and chairs, bean bags and lots of other activities and puzzles to keep kids of all ages entertained and occupied. I had not been to the kids part of the library before (mari and cecile had done the honors previously) and it was quite a pleasant surprise. They have a pretty good collection of books and we checked out a few to keep the kids occupied. Their current favorite books from the library are: Good night, Pillow Fight and You are not my real mother. They also like the Madeline and Olivia series of books quite a bit. The house we are currently renting has a few small model cars. Both the kids are fascinated with the cars and spend quite some time playing with them.

Maya likes us to spend time with her in school so she can show us all her work. The school out here is much more relaxed and open. The kids can take and share books and toys during circle time, parents can visit and spend time with their kids, hours are quite flexible and casual. Mari spent an hour with Maya at school last week, and this week Maya wanted me to show up. It was interesting to see the group of three to five year olds playing together and individually. All of the kids were focused and doing their work, spending time thinking about what to do next etc. The afternoon class is much smaller than the morning class and so they do get more attention if needed. From the looks of it, the kids did not need more attention. All of them were self reliant and quite self absorbed with their projects. PJ was fast asleep for most of my visit, need to visit when she is awake the next time. I suspect Mari and I will try to visit and spend time at school at least once a week.

Dave and Bob gave the kids two george bears on their visit in December. Maya has named PJ's one eyed bear Sausalito and has named her bear Yoghurt. Not sure how she picked those names, but they are here to stay :)