Another great week so far :)  We've been working on filling in our new agendas most mornings with our plans here at NextStep and any outside events or chores we have planned.  We've been tying Maslow's Hierarchy into conversations, addressing different types of needs we have (physical, safety, love, self esteem etc).  We had a wonderful interactive lesson about asking for help on Monday.  We discussed different situations in which we might need to ask for help, why it is sometimes hard, and what might happen when we do or do not ask.  Rory passed out different situations on pieces of paper and we practiced deciding what sort of help we might need and then actually asking for it.  Tuesday we were out and about a lot between the Root Cellar, the library, lunch on the Eastern Prom and exploring downtown Portland.  We made color wheels on Wednesday and then did an art project that taught us about complimentary and warm/cool colors.  They came out awesome!  We can't wait to show Kristine (who will be back tomorrow!)  Readers' Theater was such a hit last week that we did it again yesterday and had just as much fun with it.  The scripts come from a book Tim brought in for us with various stories of famous folks who have overcome adversities.  So not only do we get to practice our reading and acting (especially Erica who wants to be on stage some day), but we learn interesting stories about people who have worked hard to succeed.  Everyone worked really hard on subtraction yesterday as well and a few of us are starting to get a great handle on borrowing!  Jennessa re-joined us today after being out for surgery.  We are thrilled to have her back!!  More to come soon!!