Update on the Clan

It has been some time before I have updated on how the clan is doing.  Summer sadly has come to an end and school is entering it's fourth week.  Michael is entering the first grade and doing well, his struggle is the touchmath addition.  But, I appreciate what the method has done for Stephen so I want to continue with Michael.  Stephen is now in Third grade and each day certainly poses a new challenge.  There are so many abstract thoughts presented in this grade level and Stephen does not do well with material that is not more concrete.  I have become more aware of this given the need to instruct Stephen on these new ideas.  Joseph is in fifth grade and Thomas is in Sixth grade.  They have a new composition program that they are enrolled in together and it has proven to be beneficial so far.
  Kieran has entered freshmen year and is working hard on Latin and the classics which call him to write paper topics weekly.  This is strengthening his ability to write well and support and defend his thoughts. Claire is now a Junior in High School.  She has had a good start with Algebra/Trigonometry, Astronomy and Spanish.  Unfortunately, she spent a week in the hospital, she had to have two different surgeries performed in order to clean and close a wound that had developed on her back.  She is doing much better now, no infection and the site is healing, praise God!  Sheila will begin the CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) program this week and she should have it completed at the beginning of November. Her plans are to try working as a CNA while she goes to school to receive her nursing degree.  Finally, Matthew has entered his second year at St. Patrick's seminary.  He is enjoying the challenges and continues to discern God's will for him.  Please continue to keep Matthew in your prayers.  Joe is doing very well at work, they love having him there, who wouldn't, and his team's sales are one of the top in the company.
I try and maintain and we all appreciate your prayers and concerns.  We look forward to the Fall and winter, and God's many trials and blessings, may he continue to richly bless you.