National School Friends and Fun

 This is the view from Sophia's classroom on the fourth floor. And yes, she walks up and down these steps at least once a day depending on what classes she has. That at least counts for some exercise.
She says now being up on the top floor has turned really cold, so they stay in their heavier coats most of the morning.

I love this pic! And this kid, zhaojiaquan is our neighbor and Bella's classmate, he is a spirited, fun-loving kid that hardly ever frowns, makes my day every time I see him.

Soccer practice is Thursdays and Saturdays for almost three hours each time! whew!

 They sometimes scrimmage with the guys. And now Bella was allowed to join the team too.

They have a scheduled game mid-Jan when school gets out for Chinese New Year.

Bella's closest friend at school invited our fam for a play date. David and Soph were at soccer so we went and made dumplings with this girl and her mom.

 Tobin and Gabrielle did great too and we had a wonderful morning.

 I really get along with this mom, she is very sweet

Bella also participated in her class competition for a type of 'field day' with different events.
Of all the second grade classes her class won the duck walking relay. And they were actually really good at it. It hurt my knees just to watch.

 She was so excited about this and even got a certificate and had no homework that night!

Sophia was invited to a birthday party of a boy who sits on her row (they do things in rows here a lot for school projects, etc.,) Interesting food..

 But lots of fun. David attended with her, which is usually how we do things and is not uncommon for birthdays anyway.

we love that our kids have good friends and lots of activities to keep them involved in our community!