Saturday we went to the Palace of Versailles. It was a beautiful day to spend in the gardens.  We opted not to go in the castle this time since it was so lovely outside.  We live only 10 minutes away so Chris and I have already decided we will make frequent visits with and without the kids.  The gardens now have music playing with the fountain displays so it makes the experience even more enjoyable.  Kids took a ride on a canoe and Luciana attempted to row as well.  Next time we will rent the bikes and see more of the gardens.

Gates of Versailles

Emilia was our navigator

musical fountains

Luciana rowing

Emilia and the Chateau de Versailles

Waiting for the fountain 

Saturday evening Chris and I went to dinner in Paris.  We had such a lovely time. Dinner in Paris is not just a meal.  When you are seated it feels as though it is your table for the evening.  In the states one often feels rushed.  There are servers running around, often interrupting your meal.  You feel like it's your table for just a moment and soon someone will replace you.  Chris and I spent 2.5 hours thoroughly enjoying our meal and conversation.  Sunday we went to Parc Monceau. It is in the 8th arrondissement of Paris.  It is characterized as having an English garden layout and has numerous statues of famous French figures as well as a variety  of small versions of architectural landmarks including an Egyptian pyramid, a Chinese fort, a Dutch windmill, and Corinthian pillars. We had a wonderful picnic and enjoyed the grounds and playground.

Parc Monceau

This is a week of many firsts...
Alex brought home his first paper from school- it was called "My hopes and dreams for third grade". He wrote... "I hope the school builds an ice rink, they serve pizza for hot lunch and that we have soccer in PE."  I don't know how to respond to that one.  Kids are enjoying their classes.  They have homework each night- @45 minutes.

Monday was Olivia's try out for gymnastics. She did great- made the team.  She only has 5.5 hours a week of practice which she is bummed about.  At home- she would have 13 so will see if we can squeeze in some extra lessons!   Emilia also tried out and made the young team- she goes 4 hours a week and Luciana will go one hour a week as well.  Of course, each child is on a different day so I will be at this gym 6 days a week!  Fortunately it is less than a 5 minute drive.

Emilia had her first day of school on Tuesday.  Unlike myself, she held it together.  No tears, no fear.  I was so sad leaving her as she is the only English- speaking child in her class. Of all our kids, she is the strongest mentally so I know she will do well.  The teacher said she showed enthusiasm,  raised her hand and asked good questions.  She came home with two new friends who only speak French.  They chased the boys together during recess and she is excited to go back.  Her school supply list was an adventure just to translate. So many different size notebooks, protectors, etc that I spent an hour on -line figuring out what each item was and then another hour at the store trying to find them.   She needed everything from a compass to specific color notebook protectors.  They use pens to practice cursive and do most subjects. Pencils are used only for art and geometry.  I have a feeling Emilia is going to come out of this with the most unique learning experience.

Emilia's first day of first grade

Alex had his first hockey lesson Tuesday evening.  They had some issues with the rink so he doesn't have any ice time until the 19th but he got to meet his teammates and do land drills and get a good workout.   His team will play hockey against local teams as well as a tournament that includes teams from Russia, Poland and Italy.  I can not emphasize enough the amazing opportunities the kids are getting!  Tomorrow is Luciana's first day of school and a lot planned for the rest of the week!