Comedian

Although the Terrible Two's have been known to possess Ryan at times, the majority of his time is spent cracking us up. He is JUST LIKE JOSH in that once he gets a laugh, it's over with.

He has been entertaining the whole family (and strangers in public) by his random songs, outbursts of dancing and his versions of "funny stories" (anything he says, he just adds "poop" to the end and thinks it's hilarious). Of course we made the mistake of laughing out of surprise the first time, so now he thinks he can get the laugh every time. He does get it from Haley, which is all he needs. She is his biggest fan.
He has been busy. We thought he was fully in his big bed. We have always had a guest bed in his room and he asked to sleep in it. If it were up to me he would have stayed in his crib much longer. Well, now he knows if he gets out he has to get in his crib. It takes only minutes after we leave his room until you hear his little footsteps and hear him CRACK UP when you see him and put him in his crib. Oh brother...
He loves to wrestle and play trains on his train table. He still loves books and instruments and has started to play on the scooter and tricycle. The kid is a ball of energy. He has his moments, being two and all, but boy, this stage is really fun...for all of us!

The BIG Day

I did have to wake Haley up at 7:00 but it wasn't hard. Right when she heard my voice she shot straight up and started clapping her hands. I only cried twice. Once while I was doing her hair and telling her what a big day this is and how proud I am of her, and the other was when I left the campus.
We got to school and there was quite the buzz. I asked her to stand in front of this sign and she replied, "Mom, I don't want to be late for school!"
She walked in her room and found her name tag on the desk. Ry tried to sit next to her but she said, "Sorry little Buddy. This seat is for" (read the nametag), "Diego." This is her teacher for the year! Haley already asked to see her picture again because she forgot what she looked like. She gave a wonderful impression and it is clear she loves what she does. She was so patient, especially with the parents.
She and Taylor saw each other bright and early and were both excited to start! Thank goodness Trish, Tay's mom, is picking Haley up every day. Such a blessing!

She has been giving us bits and pieces of the day...what they read, a dance they did and songs they sang, how they line up, the new friends she made and how her teacher is so nice and taught her how to say "I love you" with her hands (sign language). She already explained that she will have school every day except the weekend and when it's Monday again it's school again (said with enthusiasm). She talked about how she was able to visit the treasure box and was a good listener.

We have a child in school. Let the new adventure begin!

I Missed It

I can't believe it, but I missed the first day of school. I have NEVER missed the first day of school, neither as a student or a teacher. I have taught while sick many times, but this one took me by storm and there was no escaping. My staff is awesome and so many people stepped in to help and get everything covered. I felt horrible all day, both physically and emotionally. I just know how nervous and anxious and excited these kids are as they make the transition to middle school. I missed being there and greeting them and meeting the parents and all that comes with the first day. Still can't believe it. Hope that was a first and a last.

He Knows the Rules...

Whether he follows them or not, he knows them. This morning when I went into his room Ry started the day off by simply listing some rules.

Me: Good morning Ryan!

Ryan: Moanin' (morning) Mama! Only throw balls, out bed one time then crib, no no wake up Sissy, share, no no poop bath.

Good list my boy!

A Sweet, Sweet Summer

This has been such an incredible summer break. The only other summer to compare it to was our wedding summer. The kids and I had so much fun together while Josh was working and we had so much fun as a family when he was home. We packed in camping, swim class (H), gym class (R), swimming,Tahoe, concerts in the park, bike rides, trips to Great America, Children's Discovery Museum, Happy Hollow, parks, painting, playing, a family reunion and some being lazy in there. I think about it and know that my absolute favorite parts have been tucking the kids in after their bath and reading books next to their sweet smelling, bathed skin. In those times we reflected on our day and the friends we got to play with.

It is now coming to a close as I am back to work on Wednesday and the students come the following Monday. I am getting ready to shift gears as we get back to reality (which will be a new reality with Haley starting kinder!). I have loved the summer and feel incredibly blessed to have the job that I do. It allows me to love my work and have time with my family.
Dreading starting back, but cherishing the summer we had!