Friday, March 16, 2012

May 2011: School's Out!


There's something extra special about kindergarten.
Everybody loves each other. 
Every day is fun.
And kindergarten teachers. They're saints! What's not to love?
 
Grandma Littlewood was off from work that day, and was able to attend Mia's last day party and kindergarten "graduation."
 


I hope these kids remember how much they loved each other when, in second grade, boys and girls stop playing together. 
I hope they'll always be friends.





Aidan's last day of school party was a "field day" theme, with lots of fun outdoor games. I was the room mom for his class this year, and while there were many stressful moments, this day was pure fun. While I don't know if I could do it again, I'm grateful I had the opportunity to do it at least once!






May 2011: Field Trips


I try to go on as many field trips as possible. 
I know that someday, there won't be anymore for me to help with. Sniff.
In May, Mia's kindergarten class took a trip to Deanna Rose.


We sure miss this sweet girl around these parts. 
She was one of Mia's besties, and she's since moved out of state.


Our favorite kindergarten teacher of all times!
 








Aidan also had a field trip this month -- to the Arboretum.
When you're in second grade, field trips are a little more educational. We had a scavenger hunt.
 


We were the only one to spot a living owl. Apparently, spotting this owl is quite difficult, and capturing it on film in the arboretum is rare.


May 2011: A Self Portrait


This was Aidan's Mother's Day present that he made at school. 
It's a self portrait. 
I love, love, love, his big, brown eyes -- they're something I know came from me!

May 2011: Jack Turns Four!

Jack's 4th birthday deserves a post all of its own. Birthdays are a big deal around here!
The morning starts with a poster and presents at the top of the stairs. I love that this is what the kids see first when they wake up. 


This boy has me wrapped around his little finger -- I just can't get enough of him.
His cheeks. His smile. The little mischievous glint in his eye. 
 


His birthday fell on a weekend, so he got to choose something fun to do. No surprise, he chose Jumpin' Jax, which is a favorite destination.



For dinner, another birthday favorite: T-Rex. 
 

The volcano is erupting, and the lava is threatening to cover our table, in case you were wondering why Jack has an expression of abject terror on his face.






The following Sunday, we always have a "family" birthday party with Grandma Littlewood and the uncles and aunt, and whomever else wants to drop in. 


Doesn't everyone fight at family birthday parties?
 

Happy Birthday Jack!


April 2011

April 2011:

More jumping on the trampoline. It's just the best thing. Ever.


Mia started soccer this year. Kindergarten girls playing soccer? Cutest thing. Ever.
 

 

Another thing about kindergarten soccer teams? Lots of chatting on the sidelines.
 

This is how our kids travel between back yards...






Easter.
We decorate lots of eggs...
 







...had a super yummy breakfast before church...
 


...and finished it off with an egg hunt at Grandma Littlewood's!



I have a million Deanna Rose photos, but I love looking back at how much the kids have grown every year. This year, they added a few new buildings, including the General Store. Here, Jace and Jack are enjoying a competitive game of checkers.