We are almost at the end of our first six week block. We have one more week and then we switch out science for social studies and novel writing for grammar and novel study.

Our Raspberry Pi arrived and Margaret got it setup on her own including installing the operating system. Raspberry Pis are credit card sized computers which run a version of linux. The pins on the left hand side allow you to wire the computer into other electronic projects. Our goal is twofold, first is to wire a number of hidden switches to their bed to provide TARDIS sound effects. Second is to allow them to access Spotify in their bedroom so they can have music at bedtime.

Ian continued his exploration of structures, testing his ability to build towers that withstood a windstorm. He built them in Keva blocks, Lego and K’Nex. It was interesting to see his thought processes and the different results. He managed to build a structure out of Keva blocks that he blew a hole in and it stayed standing. Of course he immediately blew another hole in it and that caused it to collapse denying me a photo. Oh well. The wind is provided by a Shop Vac with the hose on the exhaust.

Margaret made some crystals using Magnesium Sulfate after researching experiments that looked interesting and had components that we could actually buy. We had bought and great book that has all sorts of experiments in all fields and where to obtain the material. Unfortunately the rules are different between the US and Canada. What I could order through Amazon in the US is restricted in Canada. It was frustrating for her but she was determined and in the end she found one that worked.

Margaret made cupcakes for our church’s fall bazaar, cakewalk. I made cakes but it was being run differently than last year so my cakes ended up on the bake sale table.

We also spent a fair amount of time catching up on math. Both Philip and Margaret had fallen behind. While both are behind they are gaining ground.

Philip, Margaret and my wife went to a scout camp last weekend. There is a group from our region going to the Canadian Scout Jamboree next year in Elderbank, Nova Scotia. This camp was to let the all the kids and leader get to know each other as they are from multiple groups.

I am continuing my walks and it is the time of the year when I can get beautiful sunrises.