Twas the eve before Preschool
And all through our house
The encouraging and scurrying
Of mom and her spouse.
Its the first day of pre-K
I guess I should be sappy
Maybe I'll drown my tears
In a pumpkin spice latte.
The clothes are laid out
on the dresser with care
We've tried on new rainboots
And fresh underwear.
You just won't believe it
Sweet as he looks
He's been crazy and cranky
And frankly I'm shook.
For Shelley and Kelly
and Mrs. Anne too
Our prayers for Mrs. Jill,
teachers, and aides too.
So here's to the first day
And every day hence
For good sleep and recess
And boundless patience.
Parody penned with love September 3, 2018.
Monday, September 3, 2018
Friday, August 24, 2018
Reaching For The Sky
Willie K,
What a fun-filled summer we have had watching you grow like a weed. July and August have flown by. We took you for your first fireworks viewing on the fourth of July. We found a great spot without a lot of people or traffic and we could see several of the fireworks being displayed all over the Roanoke Valley.
You've had excursions bowling and to the movies with Daddy on his days off. I love to see the smiles on both your faces when you come home from these fun outings. We also went to a Japanese Steakhouse where you got to see the food cooked in front of you. You really enjoyed this, especially when Daddy caught the shrimp in his mouth.
We've gone out to Hollins a few times. It was really fun to be there when the Children's Lit program was happening because there were storybook characters everywhere! You've been getting pretty good at throwing the Frisbee so we've taken it out there a few time and played on the lawns, just the two of us, but also a trip with Daddy too. It is wonderful for us to go back to the place where it all began for our family.
We went out to Troutville for a Tractor show with Dalton one Saturday morning. You all got to sit on a lot of different tractors, play on some fun playground equipment and have ice cream.
A common theme this summer has been water play. You had water camp at preschool, which was such fun to reconnect with all your pals. We have gone to the fountains at Elmwood park several times, most recently with Dalton. You've found joy playing in streams on hikes, water play on the back deck, and splashing in puddles through the neighborhood.
Of course playgrounds have been high on the list for outdoor activities, we have to go really early in the day or late in the evening to beat the heat. You've mastered what we call the "spider web" at your playground this summer. I just can't believe you are big enough to do that. You and Daddy went over to Smith Park one day and you both enjoyed it so much you took me back a few days later. Lots of cool things for you to explore and right on the greenway so you could ride your scooter too.
You've had some grand adventures with your grandparents this summer as well. Time at Papa Tate and Beba's house has been full of morning walks with Becca, playing in the backyard, and my favorite--the gift of a giant dinosaur mask that actually roars when you wear it. Beba and Papa have been on some fun adventures of their own to Alaska! But when they have been home they have come to church with us to sit with you (you are so well behaved in worship, thank you)! Grams and Papa Bass have also had you at their house a few times over the summer. They took you on a train ride which you loved and most recently they took you on a hike and to Luray Zoo where you saw some rescue animals.
Last week we made our long awaited trip to Emerald Isle. This year you were not afraid of the water at all. From jumping into Ida's pool to splashing in the ocean waves, you were awesome. As always, you were fascinated to see the horses in the barn on the Wright Farm and tried your hand at driving a little four-wheeler around. It delighted you to go out on the boat and look over the edge at the water, feel the spray on your face. Eventually we just stopped carrying your bucket of sand toys out to the beach because you played in the surf the entire time. We also had to bring home lots of seashells. We made several attempts at fishing with your Paw Patrol pole, and you and dad built a mega fort in the den of the beach house. We had dinner with our family one night and another night with Corinne and Jeremy. Your dad and I talked a lot about what an awesome, well-behaved, and sweet child you are. We feel so fortunate you are our son.
At the moment we are at the cabin with Grams and Papa Bass--an impromptu trip to the mountains. Dad and Papa have gone into town to Lowe's and you are helping Grams pull weeds in the yard. The cabin is sunny and quiet, with the mountain air occasionally punctuated by your sweet voice calling out to Grams and playing. Yesterday Uncle Ray came and we spent the day enjoying the sun, riding your bike and watching wildlife. There were also two rousing games of Corn Hole. You have spent your evenings roasting marshmallows by the fire.
You will return to school in a few weeks, in the Pre-K class. You are now one of the "big men on campus." It is hard to believe that next winter we will register you for Kindergarten. I know by then you will be ready. I have to wonder as I see friends sending their children off to their first days of school if Daddy and I will be ready by then too.
I titled this blog post, "Reaching For The Sky" because I've had some good inspiration lately. Earlier this month I got to travel with my girlfriends to see Hanson play with a live orchestra. A new song they wrote for this project is called "Reaching For The Sky" and it talks about a boy who has this dream for himself and how he will keep striving to achieve all he aspires to be. Last summer you told your cousins that when you grow up you "want to help people." This summer you've been telling me that when you grow up you want to be "a firefighter and a daddy." I think you are well on your way to achieving all you put your mind to-and not just because you are stubborn! You love to be a helper (on your own schedule though) and you are so caring of other people. And, you remember everything! If we could just get you to stop wanting every toy you see, I think we'd be all set. Haha! Anyway, I hope that Daddy and I can continue to give you all the tools you need to keep growing into a compassionate human being--because the world needs more of those.
As you ask Daddy all the time, "is that cool?"
We love you kiddo,
Mom
P. S.--sorry this is two months in one (again) we are just too busy having all the fun in between adulting. :)
What a fun-filled summer we have had watching you grow like a weed. July and August have flown by. We took you for your first fireworks viewing on the fourth of July. We found a great spot without a lot of people or traffic and we could see several of the fireworks being displayed all over the Roanoke Valley.
You've had excursions bowling and to the movies with Daddy on his days off. I love to see the smiles on both your faces when you come home from these fun outings. We also went to a Japanese Steakhouse where you got to see the food cooked in front of you. You really enjoyed this, especially when Daddy caught the shrimp in his mouth.
We've gone out to Hollins a few times. It was really fun to be there when the Children's Lit program was happening because there were storybook characters everywhere! You've been getting pretty good at throwing the Frisbee so we've taken it out there a few time and played on the lawns, just the two of us, but also a trip with Daddy too. It is wonderful for us to go back to the place where it all began for our family.
We went out to Troutville for a Tractor show with Dalton one Saturday morning. You all got to sit on a lot of different tractors, play on some fun playground equipment and have ice cream.
A common theme this summer has been water play. You had water camp at preschool, which was such fun to reconnect with all your pals. We have gone to the fountains at Elmwood park several times, most recently with Dalton. You've found joy playing in streams on hikes, water play on the back deck, and splashing in puddles through the neighborhood.
Of course playgrounds have been high on the list for outdoor activities, we have to go really early in the day or late in the evening to beat the heat. You've mastered what we call the "spider web" at your playground this summer. I just can't believe you are big enough to do that. You and Daddy went over to Smith Park one day and you both enjoyed it so much you took me back a few days later. Lots of cool things for you to explore and right on the greenway so you could ride your scooter too.
You've had some grand adventures with your grandparents this summer as well. Time at Papa Tate and Beba's house has been full of morning walks with Becca, playing in the backyard, and my favorite--the gift of a giant dinosaur mask that actually roars when you wear it. Beba and Papa have been on some fun adventures of their own to Alaska! But when they have been home they have come to church with us to sit with you (you are so well behaved in worship, thank you)! Grams and Papa Bass have also had you at their house a few times over the summer. They took you on a train ride which you loved and most recently they took you on a hike and to Luray Zoo where you saw some rescue animals.
Last week we made our long awaited trip to Emerald Isle. This year you were not afraid of the water at all. From jumping into Ida's pool to splashing in the ocean waves, you were awesome. As always, you were fascinated to see the horses in the barn on the Wright Farm and tried your hand at driving a little four-wheeler around. It delighted you to go out on the boat and look over the edge at the water, feel the spray on your face. Eventually we just stopped carrying your bucket of sand toys out to the beach because you played in the surf the entire time. We also had to bring home lots of seashells. We made several attempts at fishing with your Paw Patrol pole, and you and dad built a mega fort in the den of the beach house. We had dinner with our family one night and another night with Corinne and Jeremy. Your dad and I talked a lot about what an awesome, well-behaved, and sweet child you are. We feel so fortunate you are our son.
At the moment we are at the cabin with Grams and Papa Bass--an impromptu trip to the mountains. Dad and Papa have gone into town to Lowe's and you are helping Grams pull weeds in the yard. The cabin is sunny and quiet, with the mountain air occasionally punctuated by your sweet voice calling out to Grams and playing. Yesterday Uncle Ray came and we spent the day enjoying the sun, riding your bike and watching wildlife. There were also two rousing games of Corn Hole. You have spent your evenings roasting marshmallows by the fire.
You will return to school in a few weeks, in the Pre-K class. You are now one of the "big men on campus." It is hard to believe that next winter we will register you for Kindergarten. I know by then you will be ready. I have to wonder as I see friends sending their children off to their first days of school if Daddy and I will be ready by then too.
I titled this blog post, "Reaching For The Sky" because I've had some good inspiration lately. Earlier this month I got to travel with my girlfriends to see Hanson play with a live orchestra. A new song they wrote for this project is called "Reaching For The Sky" and it talks about a boy who has this dream for himself and how he will keep striving to achieve all he aspires to be. Last summer you told your cousins that when you grow up you "want to help people." This summer you've been telling me that when you grow up you want to be "a firefighter and a daddy." I think you are well on your way to achieving all you put your mind to-and not just because you are stubborn! You love to be a helper (on your own schedule though) and you are so caring of other people. And, you remember everything! If we could just get you to stop wanting every toy you see, I think we'd be all set. Haha! Anyway, I hope that Daddy and I can continue to give you all the tools you need to keep growing into a compassionate human being--because the world needs more of those.
As you ask Daddy all the time, "is that cool?"
We love you kiddo,
Mom
P. S.--sorry this is two months in one (again) we are just too busy having all the fun in between adulting. :)
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
June Bug
K,
Did you know that your nickname was June Bug before you were born? Yes, you were supposed to be a June baby, not a May baby--but God's timing is always right.
We have been on several adventures in the last week or two. We have had some pretty days (also some hot ones) so we have spent considerable time doing fun things outdoors. We have celebrated Daddy for Father's Day. Even though he had to work, we picked out a funny card about animals in the wild and their farts (because what little boy and their daddy doesn't think that is funny) and gave him a bag of sweet chili pistachios which we know he loves. I always enjoy hearing you call out, "Daddy" when he comes home from work and you have something to show him or tell him as he walks through the door. You always like to have boys club when the opportunity arises and revel in "kicking me out of the house."
We went over to Hollins one hot Saturday morning, Daddy & I's anniversary actually. I thought it would be nice to revisit the place we met with you, since Daddy had to work. We went and visited the horses and then walked around in Beale Garden.
We had a generous friend give us a gift certificate to the Mill Mountain Zoo so we also enjoyed a cool morning there before it got too hot. We also managed to have our fun before a big group of kids came in and began running all over the place. We rode the Zoo Choo for the first time. Your favorite animal to see was the Red Panda because he was smiling at you! We then went up to the picnic area near the star and had lunch and played on the rocks and slide there.
Last Saturday we enjoyed a hike with some of our church friends to Roaring Run. You and Mr. Mark's dog Cooper only have one speed, so we were first to the water falls. On the hike back down you hung in with the Burr family. I am really thankful you did not step on the copperhead snake that we came across in the path just moments after you.
Last week was my fourth and your second year at Vacation Bible School. We had a wonderful time! It was tiring for ALL of us, even you sir. But, you had a wonderful experience. One day you came home and told me all about the story of Jesus calming the waters and how your group climbed in a box that was a boat and water splashed on you (from a spray bottle)! You have been singing all of the songs you learned, even the one in Spanish. One day you said, "I liked singing 'Yes, Lord' (which is really 'I'm Trading my Sorrows') and I was good at it, and the other children were too!" You were engaged in the activities all week. I believe your favorite thing might have been playing balloons and noodles with Mrs. Mary.
On the final night of VBS we had a summer concert at Covenant and we brought in Little Critters Petting Zoo. Despite the rain, this was a great success. Not only did you enjoy looking at all the animals, but you played in puddles, danced to the music, and pulled weeds from the flower beds (yes you read that correctly)! You had so much fun I hated to make you leave, but bedtime was past due.
We had dinner at Great Tom & Great Jane's house Saturday evening with the family. You were pleased that Beba made you more cheese ball since Daddy and I ate it all last time. I wish I could deny this, but I cannot....and I might eat it all this time too. Papa Tate made homemade ice cream with blueberries and strawberries, yum! Great Tom took you for a ride on his Kubota which you really enjoyed.
I took you over to Mommy Time, an indoor play area for kids yesterday. You just loved it. There is a big obstacle course there to climb in with slides on it and a ball pit. Also some swings and other things. There were a few other children there and I was impressed at how you played with them and used your manners. It is nice that it is so close and not too expensive for an hour of play. Also, I got to sit and read a book while you played which was honestly worth the cost to me. :)
This week you are at one of the preschool camps, having a blast with all of your friends. You will come home with lots of new artwork to share. You don't know it yet, but this weekend you will get to go and spend time with Papa Bass and Grams. I know you will love this because you were just talking about them this morning and said that you miss them. Daddy and I will miss you over the weekend but I am excited for you to have more fun adventures with them.
New obsessions: Garfield, Super Heroes, Camping (sleeping) in your old nap roll.
It becomes harder and harder to remember you as the little infant in our arms in the first weeks of your life. We love you a whole lot, and we are really proud of you and the person you are becoming.
Hugs (because I am not supposed to give you kisses),
Mama
Did you know that your nickname was June Bug before you were born? Yes, you were supposed to be a June baby, not a May baby--but God's timing is always right.
We have been on several adventures in the last week or two. We have had some pretty days (also some hot ones) so we have spent considerable time doing fun things outdoors. We have celebrated Daddy for Father's Day. Even though he had to work, we picked out a funny card about animals in the wild and their farts (because what little boy and their daddy doesn't think that is funny) and gave him a bag of sweet chili pistachios which we know he loves. I always enjoy hearing you call out, "Daddy" when he comes home from work and you have something to show him or tell him as he walks through the door. You always like to have boys club when the opportunity arises and revel in "kicking me out of the house."
We went over to Hollins one hot Saturday morning, Daddy & I's anniversary actually. I thought it would be nice to revisit the place we met with you, since Daddy had to work. We went and visited the horses and then walked around in Beale Garden.
We had a generous friend give us a gift certificate to the Mill Mountain Zoo so we also enjoyed a cool morning there before it got too hot. We also managed to have our fun before a big group of kids came in and began running all over the place. We rode the Zoo Choo for the first time. Your favorite animal to see was the Red Panda because he was smiling at you! We then went up to the picnic area near the star and had lunch and played on the rocks and slide there.
Last Saturday we enjoyed a hike with some of our church friends to Roaring Run. You and Mr. Mark's dog Cooper only have one speed, so we were first to the water falls. On the hike back down you hung in with the Burr family. I am really thankful you did not step on the copperhead snake that we came across in the path just moments after you.
Last week was my fourth and your second year at Vacation Bible School. We had a wonderful time! It was tiring for ALL of us, even you sir. But, you had a wonderful experience. One day you came home and told me all about the story of Jesus calming the waters and how your group climbed in a box that was a boat and water splashed on you (from a spray bottle)! You have been singing all of the songs you learned, even the one in Spanish. One day you said, "I liked singing 'Yes, Lord' (which is really 'I'm Trading my Sorrows') and I was good at it, and the other children were too!" You were engaged in the activities all week. I believe your favorite thing might have been playing balloons and noodles with Mrs. Mary.
On the final night of VBS we had a summer concert at Covenant and we brought in Little Critters Petting Zoo. Despite the rain, this was a great success. Not only did you enjoy looking at all the animals, but you played in puddles, danced to the music, and pulled weeds from the flower beds (yes you read that correctly)! You had so much fun I hated to make you leave, but bedtime was past due.
We had dinner at Great Tom & Great Jane's house Saturday evening with the family. You were pleased that Beba made you more cheese ball since Daddy and I ate it all last time. I wish I could deny this, but I cannot....and I might eat it all this time too. Papa Tate made homemade ice cream with blueberries and strawberries, yum! Great Tom took you for a ride on his Kubota which you really enjoyed.
I took you over to Mommy Time, an indoor play area for kids yesterday. You just loved it. There is a big obstacle course there to climb in with slides on it and a ball pit. Also some swings and other things. There were a few other children there and I was impressed at how you played with them and used your manners. It is nice that it is so close and not too expensive for an hour of play. Also, I got to sit and read a book while you played which was honestly worth the cost to me. :)
This week you are at one of the preschool camps, having a blast with all of your friends. You will come home with lots of new artwork to share. You don't know it yet, but this weekend you will get to go and spend time with Papa Bass and Grams. I know you will love this because you were just talking about them this morning and said that you miss them. Daddy and I will miss you over the weekend but I am excited for you to have more fun adventures with them.
New obsessions: Garfield, Super Heroes, Camping (sleeping) in your old nap roll.
It becomes harder and harder to remember you as the little infant in our arms in the first weeks of your life. We love you a whole lot, and we are really proud of you and the person you are becoming.
Hugs (because I am not supposed to give you kisses),
Mama
Saturday, June 9, 2018
Embracing The Era of Four
K,
I swear you have grown another inch in the last month. It is possible, after all you grew 2 inches since September. It seems like every day a little bit more of the baby falls away and a little boy emerges. Growth reveals itself in the way you speak and interact. The scrapes and bruises that mottle your legs illuminate a boy who is still learning how his limbs work...not because you are too wild, but just a tad impulsive and clumsy. Your little voice is so very sweet. The first day I hear it crack in adolescence I will probably cry.
For Muffins for Mom & Mother's Day you gave me the sweetest artwork and a card about how I am Super Mom. You said that at work I show my powers when I preach. Melt my heart. You also said I was five years old and my best dish is Mac & Cheese. You know me SO well.
As the season grew warmer we got out a bit to play. One Saturday while Daddy was working we went downtown early to the Peter Pan Playground and I convinced you to try out the fountains in Elmwood Park. It wasn't long before you were drenched and laughing hysterically.
We ended the school year with your birthday week. Yes, you are following in Mommy's footsteps of stretching birthdays as long as possible. On your actual birthday you opened your gift from your parents--the long desired Darth Vader Mr. Potato Head. After school that day the staff at church brought you a cake and a huge Paw Patrol balloon that is STILL floating in our house. The next day was a party at school for you and a couple of other students with summer birthdays. We baked sugar cookies and took sprinkles for you and your friends to decorate them. That evening was the big surprise we had kept secret for months--Beba and Papa got you tickets to see Paw Patrol Live. You had a great time at the show and can recount for us the story line in detail. You were not so thrilled to meet them, scared of the big costumes, but that is okay! I am so thankful to all your grandparents for providing these memories of Daniel Tiger and Paw Patrol for you.
The following Saturday we threw you a Curious George Birthday Bash at the church. I am thankful that we had it there because it started to rain while we were playing outside so we were able to come in and utilize the hula hoops and pool noodles for games while we waited for the Pizza to arrive. When not engaged in an activity you all had fun just running laps around the fellowship hall. Grams & Papa Bass came, as did Beba & Papa, and your Great Aunts & Uncle and cousins. Grams made your birthday cupcakes. Of course the highlight for you was opening gifts, all your friends surrounded you to observe and even helped you with the wrapping paper a few times. So many fun things to play with, it took all afternoon to open them all up and play. The nap after that was glorious.
Last weekend we played with Dalton and went to story time at the mall. You guys were so hyped up to see each other. The following day we went to the Miller's pool party where you all enjoyed swimming together. I am glad that you are happy to play in the water now and look forward to you learning how to swim.
This week Meredith & Nick came and stayed overnight with us. You really loved building your new lego set they gave you with Aunt Mert. They also gave you a cool tent to play in--but it is missing some pieces so we can't build it just yet. Yesterday on Daddy & Mommy's day off we went to the Glazed Bisque-It and painted pottery. Daddy wanted us to replace his Christmas Gift that got broken. A fun family outing that actually had minimal mess.
Our afternoons and evenings have brought playground trips, chalk art & scooters in the driveway, water play and library books. And lest I be accused of being a person who paints the perfect picture of life on social media (ask me in 15 years what fake news means) the transition from school to summer hasn't always been stellar. We are lucky to have Beba & Papa hanging out with you a lot this summer, and teenage friends to hang out with you some beginning next week-- but you and I have butted heads several times in recent days. There has been defiance (yours), there has been yelling (mine), and there have been tears (ours). But I have to remember that transitions are difficult and the change from seeing friends every day to summers off is very different. So, there you have it--I try not to dwell on the negative moments but we do have them.
We have Vacation Bible School, two summer camps, and a beach trip to look forward to in the coming months. Here's hoping your shorts won't get too short, your hair won't get too long, and we can find you some sandals that hold up in this wild season we call summer.
Dressing yourself, selecting your own snacks, and eating cereal on the couch: "Because I am four years old so I can do it."
Love you, Bear.
Mom
I swear you have grown another inch in the last month. It is possible, after all you grew 2 inches since September. It seems like every day a little bit more of the baby falls away and a little boy emerges. Growth reveals itself in the way you speak and interact. The scrapes and bruises that mottle your legs illuminate a boy who is still learning how his limbs work...not because you are too wild, but just a tad impulsive and clumsy. Your little voice is so very sweet. The first day I hear it crack in adolescence I will probably cry.
 |
| Watching the new sign construction. |
 |
| Learning Fire Safety |
 |
| Muffins for Mom |
For Muffins for Mom & Mother's Day you gave me the sweetest artwork and a card about how I am Super Mom. You said that at work I show my powers when I preach. Melt my heart. You also said I was five years old and my best dish is Mac & Cheese. You know me SO well.
As the season grew warmer we got out a bit to play. One Saturday while Daddy was working we went downtown early to the Peter Pan Playground and I convinced you to try out the fountains in Elmwood Park. It wasn't long before you were drenched and laughing hysterically.
 |
| Downtown |
 |
| Elmwood Park Fountains |
We ended the school year with your birthday week. Yes, you are following in Mommy's footsteps of stretching birthdays as long as possible. On your actual birthday you opened your gift from your parents--the long desired Darth Vader Mr. Potato Head. After school that day the staff at church brought you a cake and a huge Paw Patrol balloon that is STILL floating in our house. The next day was a party at school for you and a couple of other students with summer birthdays. We baked sugar cookies and took sprinkles for you and your friends to decorate them. That evening was the big surprise we had kept secret for months--Beba and Papa got you tickets to see Paw Patrol Live. You had a great time at the show and can recount for us the story line in detail. You were not so thrilled to meet them, scared of the big costumes, but that is okay! I am so thankful to all your grandparents for providing these memories of Daniel Tiger and Paw Patrol for you.
 |
| Birthday Morning |
 |
| Love from the staff |
 |
| Paw Patrol with Mom, Dad, & Beba |
The following Saturday we threw you a Curious George Birthday Bash at the church. I am thankful that we had it there because it started to rain while we were playing outside so we were able to come in and utilize the hula hoops and pool noodles for games while we waited for the Pizza to arrive. When not engaged in an activity you all had fun just running laps around the fellowship hall. Grams & Papa Bass came, as did Beba & Papa, and your Great Aunts & Uncle and cousins. Grams made your birthday cupcakes. Of course the highlight for you was opening gifts, all your friends surrounded you to observe and even helped you with the wrapping paper a few times. So many fun things to play with, it took all afternoon to open them all up and play. The nap after that was glorious.
 |
| Birthday Bash |
Last weekend we played with Dalton and went to story time at the mall. You guys were so hyped up to see each other. The following day we went to the Miller's pool party where you all enjoyed swimming together. I am glad that you are happy to play in the water now and look forward to you learning how to swim.
This week Meredith & Nick came and stayed overnight with us. You really loved building your new lego set they gave you with Aunt Mert. They also gave you a cool tent to play in--but it is missing some pieces so we can't build it just yet. Yesterday on Daddy & Mommy's day off we went to the Glazed Bisque-It and painted pottery. Daddy wanted us to replace his Christmas Gift that got broken. A fun family outing that actually had minimal mess.
Our afternoons and evenings have brought playground trips, chalk art & scooters in the driveway, water play and library books. And lest I be accused of being a person who paints the perfect picture of life on social media (ask me in 15 years what fake news means) the transition from school to summer hasn't always been stellar. We are lucky to have Beba & Papa hanging out with you a lot this summer, and teenage friends to hang out with you some beginning next week-- but you and I have butted heads several times in recent days. There has been defiance (yours), there has been yelling (mine), and there have been tears (ours). But I have to remember that transitions are difficult and the change from seeing friends every day to summers off is very different. So, there you have it--I try not to dwell on the negative moments but we do have them.
We have Vacation Bible School, two summer camps, and a beach trip to look forward to in the coming months. Here's hoping your shorts won't get too short, your hair won't get too long, and we can find you some sandals that hold up in this wild season we call summer.
Dressing yourself, selecting your own snacks, and eating cereal on the couch: "Because I am four years old so I can do it."
Love you, Bear.
Mom
Monday, April 30, 2018
One More til Four
Kemper,
It is so hard for me to believe that you will be four years old next month. What a journey we have had! I love the person you are becoming. It is really fun to watch your imagination come through your play as you make up games to play with us and create elaborate stories with your toys. You continue to become so animated and conversational with people.
In the last month you have enjoyed not one but two trips to stay at the cabin in North Carolina. We were fortunate to have our friends, the Derrenbacker family join us for the week of Spring Break. We left on Easter afternoon and stayed for a week of rest and fun. Although I was sick for a few days, it was a blessing to have our friends there to help entertain you. We spent one day at the Biltmore Estate and we were amazed at how well behaved you were. I was certain that the day would entail whining about being bored or so tired we would have to carry you but you had a wonderful day and kept up with the older kids beautifully. Mostly you had great fun riding your scooters around the porch of the house and watching the girls play Mario Kart. When the afternoons were warm enough, playgrounds were also a great outlet.
After only a week back at home you were able to spend several days at the cabin with Grams and Papa Bass while I attended a conference at Montreat. The weather was so crazy that you had a snow day on Monday and much needed day of outdoor fun on Wednesday. I am so thankful that your grandparents have this beautiful place for us to go and stay.
On pretty days we've enjoyed the Duck Pond and the various playgrounds our beautiful community has to offer. We also spent one sunny afternoon playing outside at Papa and Beba's house. On chilly, rainy days we have built Lego kits and made sure they were "orga-sized." I have no idea where you get that from!
We've had some pretty full days at preschool and church to which you are sure to tell me, "We had a big day at church, Mommy" as I collapse on the couch. Beba and Papa have been attending worship with us at Covenant and sitting with you in the pews as you have declared yourself too big for the nursery but are not so certain about Children's Worship yet. I am so proud of you for sitting so quietly and patiently during the worship service. Daddy has started a new job which has him at work for four days and then three days at home with us. While it is an adjustment for all of us and hard for Daddy not to see you much several days a week, it makes those weekend days we have together all the more special for boys club and special outings.
Friday night we had a little scare as you got pretty sick with croup and seemed to be quite wheezy and struggling with your breathing. We immediately took you to the new ER center about 5 minutes from home. Honestly, it just feels really good when I get the parenting instinct thing right. We cannot say enough good things about how kind they were and how efficiently they treated you. The breathing treatment they gave you worked almost instantly and you haven't had any trouble since, not even coughing at night. We did stay home from school today just in case but you have really been doing well. We even took a trip to a little playground and the library to get out of the house. Looking forward to getting back into the swing of things tomorrow.
Whenever you get mad at me you tell me I am not invited to your birthday party. I've been informed the theme has changed from Paw Patrol to Curious George. I do so hope you will allow me to come (i.e. throw you a party).
You bring joy to us all--you are so, so loved.
Love,
Mama, Mama!, MOMMY!
It is so hard for me to believe that you will be four years old next month. What a journey we have had! I love the person you are becoming. It is really fun to watch your imagination come through your play as you make up games to play with us and create elaborate stories with your toys. You continue to become so animated and conversational with people.
In the last month you have enjoyed not one but two trips to stay at the cabin in North Carolina. We were fortunate to have our friends, the Derrenbacker family join us for the week of Spring Break. We left on Easter afternoon and stayed for a week of rest and fun. Although I was sick for a few days, it was a blessing to have our friends there to help entertain you. We spent one day at the Biltmore Estate and we were amazed at how well behaved you were. I was certain that the day would entail whining about being bored or so tired we would have to carry you but you had a wonderful day and kept up with the older kids beautifully. Mostly you had great fun riding your scooters around the porch of the house and watching the girls play Mario Kart. When the afternoons were warm enough, playgrounds were also a great outlet.
After only a week back at home you were able to spend several days at the cabin with Grams and Papa Bass while I attended a conference at Montreat. The weather was so crazy that you had a snow day on Monday and much needed day of outdoor fun on Wednesday. I am so thankful that your grandparents have this beautiful place for us to go and stay.
On pretty days we've enjoyed the Duck Pond and the various playgrounds our beautiful community has to offer. We also spent one sunny afternoon playing outside at Papa and Beba's house. On chilly, rainy days we have built Lego kits and made sure they were "orga-sized." I have no idea where you get that from!
We've had some pretty full days at preschool and church to which you are sure to tell me, "We had a big day at church, Mommy" as I collapse on the couch. Beba and Papa have been attending worship with us at Covenant and sitting with you in the pews as you have declared yourself too big for the nursery but are not so certain about Children's Worship yet. I am so proud of you for sitting so quietly and patiently during the worship service. Daddy has started a new job which has him at work for four days and then three days at home with us. While it is an adjustment for all of us and hard for Daddy not to see you much several days a week, it makes those weekend days we have together all the more special for boys club and special outings.
Friday night we had a little scare as you got pretty sick with croup and seemed to be quite wheezy and struggling with your breathing. We immediately took you to the new ER center about 5 minutes from home. Honestly, it just feels really good when I get the parenting instinct thing right. We cannot say enough good things about how kind they were and how efficiently they treated you. The breathing treatment they gave you worked almost instantly and you haven't had any trouble since, not even coughing at night. We did stay home from school today just in case but you have really been doing well. We even took a trip to a little playground and the library to get out of the house. Looking forward to getting back into the swing of things tomorrow.
Whenever you get mad at me you tell me I am not invited to your birthday party. I've been informed the theme has changed from Paw Patrol to Curious George. I do so hope you will allow me to come (i.e. throw you a party).
You bring joy to us all--you are so, so loved.
Love,
Mama, Mama!, MOMMY!
Saturday, March 31, 2018
March Madness
Dearest K,
It has been another full month in the Mitchell
household. One of the blessings of
social media is the capability to look back through my Facebook timeline and
see just what we have been up to in recent weeks.
At the end of February you enjoyed your first experience at
Chuckie Cheese when we went to celebrate a friends’ birthday. It was fun exploring all the games with you
and you have been asking to go back! My
favorite part of that day was when you and Daddy showed up with matching
shirts, completely unplanned.
We had a Parents’ Night Out event at Covenant at the
beginning of March and you had a great time playing with all your friends. Boy, were we worn out when we got home!
We have spent some time at the library and playgrounds of
course, when the weather was warm enough.
Last week we went to the music playground when we had some extra time,
which you enjoyed. It was a good reward
after running errands with Mommy.
On one sunny afternoon we went to Salem and visited the duck
pond and the playground. You’ve also been helping out some with cooking in the
kitchen.
The weather has been crazy! We’ve had TWO snow days in
March! The first one was good enough to warrant building an excellent snowman
in the back yard. It was a great day to
have some extra family time.
We have also gotten haircuts, played at the mall, and gone
downtown to the Peter Pan playground and went for a walk through Elmwood
Park. The delights of spring days!
Our evenings have been filled with Legos and Dance
Parties. You’ve also been giving Daddy a
run for his money in Mario Kart! You are doing preeeetty well with not
napping….but we do have the occasional nap in the car and we have found you
‘hibernating’ on the couch a few times.
On Wednesday before Spring Break there was an Easter Egg
Hunt at school. At this time last year
you screamed bloody murder and were terrified of the Easter bunny so I was a
little bit nervous as to how things would go.
But as you told Mrs. Kim afterwards at church, “I was brave.” You were a champ, you even got pictures with
the bunny. I do believe the fact that
chocolate candy was involved may have made all the difference.
Over the last 24 hours you have been at Beba & Papa’s
house. I know you will return home with
a great Easter basket and stories of playing with Becca the Basset Hound.
After church on Sunday we leave for a week at the “cavin.”
We are excited for some friends to join us there. A well-deserved time of rest for all of
us.
In recent weeks you have become more articulate and able to
carry conversations. You are learning the difference between the truth and a
lie. You continue to practice
recognizing letters and numbers and writing your name. You are also learning the skills of dressing
yourself (slowly but surely). I look back at this time three years ago when you were crawling everywhere.
Love you,
Mommy
Saturday, February 24, 2018
Love Day
Kemper,
The hours, days, and weeks all run together sometimes. That sounds crazy but I promise when you are older you will suddenly understand. In the midst of the mundane we have had some great fun this month!
At the end of January we traveled to Williamsburg and Richmond to visit with some of our favorite people! It was wonderful to watch you make friends with Emma and Isaiah while we stayed with Meagan & Mark. The love language of the weekend consisted of screams and squeals! We had all kinds of fun on a beautifully mild day. Mark was brave enough to have you guys all by himself so Mommy and her girls could go out together. After a delicious breakfast with Jennifer & Matt on Sunday we went to Richmond and worshiped at Three Chopt Presbyterian. It was so lovely to see friends there and celebrate Pastor Brenda's retirement. You were quite smitten with Hana, daughter of Crystal and Zach. You seem to collect the pretty ladies wherever you go.
Speaking of pretty ladies, you had quite a logical explanation of your intentions to marry Emmi S. It went like this:
K: when I marry Emmi, I am going to give her this ring (I don't even remember what the ring was)
Me: Oh you're getting married?
K: Not yet, we don't have our married clothes on!
Me: maybe you should wait until you're a little older. How old do you think Daddy and I were when we got married?
K: Four!
Dalton came over and played one Saturday. The wait was excruciating! You were so excited to show him all of your things you enjoy playing with. There were Paw Patrol toys from one end of the room to the other, and your police car was driven more than its fair share. The giggles were priceless.
We've been having lots of dance parties in the evenings. I think you know all the words to JT's Can't Stop The Feeling otherwise known as The Trolls Song. You've also broadened your base of One Direction songs. You call them, The Preeza Boys and I have know idea where that came from so I go with it, haha!
For Valentine's Day (Love Day), Daddy made us cinnamon rolls for breakfast. I've managed to keep most of my chocolates away from you! You had a little bag of goodies from school to enjoy. You made little hearts at school and I loved to see them displayed on Mrs. Fiona's door. Along with the love bug that illustrates how well you've been tracing your letters at school.
You got to spend some time with Papa and Beba when you were out of school this week. You were so excited to go and play with Becca at their house. Beba brought you some fun water toys that you've played with all week. It has been unusually warm this week so we have had multiple opportunities to play outside, especially in your water table and pool which you've been asking about all winter.
Love you so, so much!
Mommy
The hours, days, and weeks all run together sometimes. That sounds crazy but I promise when you are older you will suddenly understand. In the midst of the mundane we have had some great fun this month!
At the end of January we traveled to Williamsburg and Richmond to visit with some of our favorite people! It was wonderful to watch you make friends with Emma and Isaiah while we stayed with Meagan & Mark. The love language of the weekend consisted of screams and squeals! We had all kinds of fun on a beautifully mild day. Mark was brave enough to have you guys all by himself so Mommy and her girls could go out together. After a delicious breakfast with Jennifer & Matt on Sunday we went to Richmond and worshiped at Three Chopt Presbyterian. It was so lovely to see friends there and celebrate Pastor Brenda's retirement. You were quite smitten with Hana, daughter of Crystal and Zach. You seem to collect the pretty ladies wherever you go.
Speaking of pretty ladies, you had quite a logical explanation of your intentions to marry Emmi S. It went like this:
K: when I marry Emmi, I am going to give her this ring (I don't even remember what the ring was)
Me: Oh you're getting married?
K: Not yet, we don't have our married clothes on!
Me: maybe you should wait until you're a little older. How old do you think Daddy and I were when we got married?
K: Four!
Dalton came over and played one Saturday. The wait was excruciating! You were so excited to show him all of your things you enjoy playing with. There were Paw Patrol toys from one end of the room to the other, and your police car was driven more than its fair share. The giggles were priceless.
We've been having lots of dance parties in the evenings. I think you know all the words to JT's Can't Stop The Feeling otherwise known as The Trolls Song. You've also broadened your base of One Direction songs. You call them, The Preeza Boys and I have know idea where that came from so I go with it, haha!
For Valentine's Day (Love Day), Daddy made us cinnamon rolls for breakfast. I've managed to keep most of my chocolates away from you! You had a little bag of goodies from school to enjoy. You made little hearts at school and I loved to see them displayed on Mrs. Fiona's door. Along with the love bug that illustrates how well you've been tracing your letters at school.
You got to spend some time with Papa and Beba when you were out of school this week. You were so excited to go and play with Becca at their house. Beba brought you some fun water toys that you've played with all week. It has been unusually warm this week so we have had multiple opportunities to play outside, especially in your water table and pool which you've been asking about all winter.
We are trying to adjust to the fact that you are growing out of naps. I think this may be harder for me than you! But you seem to be going to bed better in the evenings. I can only keep praying for more nice weather so you can get out and about in these extra hours in your day.
Love you so, so much!
Mommy
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