Buddhist Classes

Today I enrolled - and took the kids in Buddhist classes at the Buddhist Temple over at Springwood.

Its a beautiful setting - with so much extensions happening - so will be exciting when its all finished.

The kids classes start with some chi gung - which made Age and I smile as the old tape he has was brought out and that little chinese voice crackling over the system came out to mark the breathe in and out.  The kids were amazed that we knew the movements..  so this will give us something to practice during the week.

They then go up into the main temple for meditation. Age and I snuck round to see how they were going and were so amazed to see 30 kids in lots position eyes closed and silent.  We then went off to explore the grounds while the kids were split into age groups and undertook their studies.

Next week I will bring in my sketch pad and use the translations room for some silent sketching and practicing of brush strokes.

Morgan was brimming with enthusiasm afterwards as he told us the story of Buddha and of the scrap books he is completing focusing on the virtues of buddhism.  Lilly loved the singing and dancing.. and the cookies..

They've both been asked if they'd like to be involved in the childrens performance at Southbank for the celebrations for Buddhas Birthday - early May - and of course they are in with their boots on!

We are hoping for calmness and focus - mainly for Lilly.  However today - while Age and I had to have an adult discussion and the kids had to wait, Morgan was seen cross legged and eyes closed, shutting out Lillys attempts to be naughty and flap her arms around.

First Teaching Post in......years...

eee Gad!  I have just finished a two day relief teaching post at a local school.  What a blast from the past for me.. Kids haven't changed...

I have to say I was terrified I'd lost it.. or something.. after I realised I hadn't stood formally in front of a class for 14 years.

But - its in the blood... the dark side.... and I really felt I made a difference and got to enjoy my tie there as well.  Sure there were some .. interesting kids there - no doubt with their share of history and excuses....but boy  - there were some real little gems there too. such bright little stars.

I got the call late on Monday - so had some time to prepare a bag of things to take in.  My kids were so good - Lovely neighbour Sandy took them up to school in the morning - as I wasn't sure how far it was to drive to the school or how long it would take.

am looking forward to getting future calls - but really hope not to have them early in the morning for that days work.. thought I know this is the bulk of work which is out there... its a real strain in the mornings to get out in time...

AFL Girl

Miss Lilly at AFL. She is so proud to be big enough now to go to AFL classes and to have her own ball and bag!

She is fearless and runs around with her eye on the ball.  I think she will be a force to be reckoned with...