The kids went back to school this week! Beth was dreading it, but ended up pleasantly surprised that it wasn't so bad and she really liked her classes. Ben was looking forward to it, but ended up disappointed by the changes to his schedule and the friends that were no longer in his classes. I really wish our schools were more open to changing classes for the reason of a teacher change or to be with friends. It seems to me that their goal should be to have kids like school. Aren't happy kids easier to teach? Anyway, Ben says he's getting used to it and it's not so bad, but I miss hearing him say he loves school.

Ben had guitar again this week. He also continued with tennis and karate. He had his friend Kyler over on Saturday and they hung out for most of the day. He's still managing to play gorilla tag on the VR a bunch. It looks like good exercise!

Bethany went to a full week of school. We think it's her first since surgery so that's a big deal! A tender mercy was the social dance teacher and the counselor working together to get Bethany into social dance. She loves it and it keeps her moving. Another tender mercy was being able to get Bethany into the women's choir mid year. She is really loving that, as well. She made it to karate two days this week, too! She took breaks and was exhausted when she got home (like was going to pass out and could barely make it to her room kind of exhausted) but she is trying and all these things will help her build her strength.

Savannah was able to go back to work this week! At first she was still tired and struggling with the last of her illness but by the end of the week, she was cheerful and telling us stories again. We have our Savannah back!

We got to see Mariah this weekend! She and her team came up to Provo for their first indoor track meet. We got to see her Friday night and then again on Saturday when we watched her race the mile and the 1K. On the mile, she ran ten seconds faster than this same race last year! She is zooming! It's amazing to see her hard work paying off so well. But mostly it's just fun to be with her!

Avery thought it was much too loud in there!

Kevin is recovering from his illness sometimes and other times not. He's still coughing and has patches when he feels terrible. Still, he soldiers on. He's working on providing new classes online and also keeping up with the YSA ward, work, and all our family doings. He's a busy guy.

I had a good time working at my internship this week as well as completing assignments for my class. I went to WalMart to do some grocery shopping in one of the only time blocks I had available for it, and guess what? The power went out and they made us all leave! I was almost done, too. Funny. I went the next day and retraced my steps. I guess that's just the same as usual except instead of doing the same thing a week or two later, I did it all a day later!

Avery's birthday is today!! Sarah had a party for her at her house and it was so cute! There were decorations and we sang and opened presents! Megan even made her a Mickey Mouse cake and cupcakes. We are all crazy about that little girl!

Also today, Ben was ordained a Teacher in the Aaronic priesthood! A member of our bishopric came over this evening while we knew Cali and Chey would be on their weekly call with us. Then Kevin ordained Ben, and McKay and Ammon were in the circle. It was pretty cool. He's making good choices that kid and we love him to pieces!