Making connections

My 10th grade American history teacher was renowned for her endless tangents; the grade-grubbers hated her for them, but most of us enjoyed the free-form discussions that replaced textbook-based lectures. We joked after class about how cleverly we'd sidetracked Ms M, but I imagine she knew exactly what we were doing and, indeed, that she was pretty clever herself. I was reminded of her today when Robin's search for a particular clip on Starfall inspired a lunch of Asian Noodles with Peanut Sauce, served to the accompaniment of Chinese Chamber Music, and followed by a reading of "White Wave" (a Chinese folk-tale). To see the clip that inspired us, go to Starfall, click on the 'ABC's Get Ready To Read' link, then click on the 'x' and watch the full animation.

Major joy and excitement: We finished the 'spare' bedroom last week, moved the kids in, and turned their old bedroom into a schoolroom: