Buckley doings...

On Saturday, Emma helped at her Girl Scout garage sale. The troop made about $400, some of which will be donated to a women's shelter. The girls did great. I thought they would get bored considering the sale was from 8-12. They manned the bake sale table, drummed up business by waving signs, and helped sell things to people. Alex was also very interested in helping. He made a sign, helped with the popcorn balls and attended the garage sale. Apparently, it's more fun when it's for someone else. We spent some time outside yesterday since it is getting a little cooler than it has been. Yesterday's high was only 90 degrees. I guess it's all relative after a summer with 50 days of 100 degree days. Alex and Emma had a lemonade stand and made $3.50, so they were pleased. Emma and Benjamin also did some jump roping.

Due to my little adventure, I didn't get a chance to mention the book signing we went to 2 weeks ago. Alex and I have been reading a series called the Edge Chronicles written by Paul Stewart and illustrated by Chris Riddell for the last several months. We are on the sixth book out of ten in the series. The author and illustrator came to town for a book signing so I thought it would be fun to take the kids. It was awesome. The author and illustrator are British, so it was interesting to hear them talk with their British accents. They were very gracious with the kids and asked them about the books, showed them new book covers, and answered questions. The author asked Alex which book is his favorite so far and it turns out that Alex and the author like the same one, #5. The illustrator was even better. While he was talking, he sat and drew some illustrations. As he signed a book, he gave each child a picture that he had drawn. The kids were fascinated (and so was I) to watch him draw the pictures so quickly. He drew a gray goblin for Alex (see below). Emma decided she wanted a picture for Benjamin as well, so she marched up there and asked if he would draw a picture for Benjamin. He did even one better, he drew a picture OF Benjamin (see below) in about 2 minutes. Isn't it cute? I think we may get it framed.

Other than that, it's pretty quiet around here. Sean is anxiously awaiting the start of the National League Divisional Series - the Cubs made it to the postseason again. Here's hoping it goes better than last year when they were swept in the first series. Go Cubs!