First Grade

Dear Iris,
     My little girl is in first grade! You were so nervous the first day of school, I was nauseous for hours after dropping you off. I should have known you would be ok because you made sure to tell me to ask your teacher if she would take a picture with you. When I picked you up after school, you ran into my arms and said you loved first grade and your teacher is sooo funny. The relief I felt was enormous! You have such a thoughtful, kind spirit. I love how you make things for your friends at school. I've prayed for those friends, and God answered my prayers because they are awesome! You can be so stubborn. You stomp your feet and cry. Quite the little fire cracker all of a sudden, but you are exerting your independence and wanting to do things on your own. I get it, but it's bittersweet for a mommy.  I love to watch you play. You set up the best cities, and it brings me so much joy to hear your dolls talk to one another. And you are funny, oh so funny! You have a quick wit, and a wonderful laugh. You give tight hugs and don't like to be kissed on the lips (it's ok, I don't either). We love you so much, sweet Iris. We pray for you everyday, that you grow up to love Jesus and that you never feel alone. Life can be hard, but we will always be here for you. I pray that you carry that knowledge with you wherever you go! Enjoy first grade!
Hugs,
Mommy

Third Grade

 

 

 

 

Dear Lilly,

     It's hard to believe you are in the third grade. It seems like just last week we brought you home from the hospital. I remember staring at you for hours, smiling at the slightest twitch. You have grown so much, both physically and emotionally. Your legs go on for days, and your smile lights up the darkest room. You have such an independent spirit, yet you still need us for more than you realize. You often do things on your own, and come to us when it doesn't work out. I don't mind; I'm the same way, but it can be a hard way, and it breaks my heart to watch you get angry at yourself when you mess up. You are learning what it means to be truly sorry. I love it when you take my hand. Watching you play soccer, sew and draw, giggle with your friends, and read to Iris and Henry brings me so much joy. You are amazing, and I'm so glad God gave you to us. I pray everyday that you make friends who will inspire you to be kind. I pray that you always believe that Jesus loves you and that you take full advantage of His grace. I know you will be hurt in this world, but I pray that you know deep down in your core just how much Mommy and Daddy love you. We are proud of you, sweet Lilly!

 Enjoy this year,

Mom

 

 

 



Last Days of Summer

collegewood elementary beach day

 

haircuts

sunglasses and farm animals

splash park

 

aquarium with the garcias

 

playdates and popcicles

vbs

sur & pump girls night out

bbq & homemade pinata

liquid nitrogen gourmet ice cream

lots of basketball

  

new library card

choc emergency room visit

last day of summer traditional balboa bars & frozen bananas

 

Summer is officially over. It was our best one to date; so many memories were made, so much fun was had, and we really connected as a family. I feel so blessed to be married to another teacher. We can look forward to summers for the rest of our lives. I'm trying to talk Dan into renting a giant RV and travelling the U.S. He's not sold on the idea yet, but I'm not giving up! The transitions to and from school are never easy. It's only been a week, but it already feels like summer was eons ago. Looking at these pictures makes me smile. Good bye, summer... until nest time!

O C Fair

 

 

 

 We had an absolute blast at the fair this year! This is the first year we took the kids and they were the perfect age. Dan and I both entered something, a guitar for him and a mini-quilt for me. The kids were super impressed to see mom and dad's hobbies on display. For $1, we got to feed butterflies while they landed all over us. The girls turned in book reports and got three free carnival rides. Henry was not a fan of his first roller coaster! The new ice exhibit was amazing, beautiful, and freezing. We watched the Alaskan pig races, walked around with friends, ate yummy food, pet tons of animals, took silly photos, and laughed all day. We stayed way longer than I thought we would. I can't wait until next year!