I think Emma came home with $1.50 and they were selling the cups for $.25.
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Lemonade anyone?!
On Monday, I showed up at daycare to pick up the kids and my little lady was missing. Turns out, she was trying to make some money:
Here we have Emma's bestie Breezy and another little girl from day care Elena. And, Evan, sampling the product.
I think Emma came home with $1.50 and they were selling the cups for $.25.
I think Emma came home with $1.50 and they were selling the cups for $.25.
Friday, June 28, 2013
The cabin
Last weekend we were at the cabin - just the 4 of us to relax and hang out. It was pretty nice. I wish we could have had a bit better weather as it was cool, rainy, and a bit unpredictable, but it was still nice and relaxing.
We played outside in the water, went for walks, saw family, and watched some movies. For Evan it was A Turtle Tale and for Emma the new movie was Nancy Drew. I read some magazines, read my book, and did a bit of paddleboarding.
Saturday we spent some time at my sister and brother-in-law. The kids played, Tim helped around their cabin a bit, and I ventured into the water for the first time this summer. It is pretty cold, but the kids really wanted to play. Evan was relentless! I gave him the nickname Buster as he kept dumping water on me, splashing me, and trying to get me wet. It was fun.
Sunday we visiting some new neighbors on the lake. Dan and Mindy have two little girls, age 8 and 5, that Emma loves playing with. Evan does too, but not as much. Give him about 10 years and he may be a bit more interested in going over there!
Anyway, they came to visit us Saturday so we wanted to return the favor on Sunday. We came on the pontoon with hopes of letting the kids play and giving the adults a chance to visit and get to know each other a bit better. We then took everyone out on the pontoon and the kids did a little deep swimming! The first time for it and they were excited. I was going to try and was standing on the edge of the pontoon looking into the cold water when Emma gave me a bit of a push and my decision was over.
A great weekend and we were getting some small signs that summer may be here!
We played outside in the water, went for walks, saw family, and watched some movies. For Evan it was A Turtle Tale and for Emma the new movie was Nancy Drew. I read some magazines, read my book, and did a bit of paddleboarding.
Saturday we spent some time at my sister and brother-in-law. The kids played, Tim helped around their cabin a bit, and I ventured into the water for the first time this summer. It is pretty cold, but the kids really wanted to play. Evan was relentless! I gave him the nickname Buster as he kept dumping water on me, splashing me, and trying to get me wet. It was fun.
Sunday we visiting some new neighbors on the lake. Dan and Mindy have two little girls, age 8 and 5, that Emma loves playing with. Evan does too, but not as much. Give him about 10 years and he may be a bit more interested in going over there!
Anyway, they came to visit us Saturday so we wanted to return the favor on Sunday. We came on the pontoon with hopes of letting the kids play and giving the adults a chance to visit and get to know each other a bit better. We then took everyone out on the pontoon and the kids did a little deep swimming! The first time for it and they were excited. I was going to try and was standing on the edge of the pontoon looking into the cold water when Emma gave me a bit of a push and my decision was over.
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| A fun ride! |
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| Trying to get in a quick chapter on the pontoon |
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| Like Man, Like Dog |
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| Dan caught a snake and all the kids (and dog) were interested. |
A great weekend and we were getting some small signs that summer may be here!
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Evan and the kindergarten decision
For those that have spoke with me in -oh say the past year - you know the dilemma I have been mulling around in my head. Should Evan go to kindergarten next year (and start when he is a few days away from turning 5) or should we hold him a year and start him when he would be fairly old for his class. The problem arises with his birthday - he was born Sept. 7 and the cutoff for kindergarten is Sept. 1.
I have read the articles, I have heard many, many opinions (everyone has an opinion on this topic) and I wasn't sure. I wanted to hold him back. I was in the same boat as a kid (with my b-day being Sept. 11) and I liked being the older one in my class. I was first to drive, first to drink (legally that is), and well, that was pretty much it. But, then I read articles about how so many parents are doing that now that there is a "term" for it - red shirting - and the experts are not fans. They say, that if the child is ready - send him, which was the same exact advice my pediatrician gave us. He said don't worry about size, don't worry about sports, anything else. If Evan is ready - you should send him.
Tim wanted to send him, I didn't really. Fortunately, Stillwater has a method for this. All early entrance to kindergarten kids need to pass a test to be admitted. And me, being the numbers person that I am, loved the fact that it was based on a quantitative approach and it wasn't subjective. Evan needed to take an academic test and an IQ test. If he passed those, he would go to a simulated kindergarten with real kindergarten teachers to see how he performed. The teachers would provide a recommendation. What I liked even more than just the testing methods was that Stillwater had tracked the kids for the past 25 years and they were 95% accurate with the kids they said should be admitted early.
Tim and I decided that we would get Evan tested and go from there.
He was tested about two weeks ago and he didn't pass. The academic test needed to be 100% - meaning that the kids had to get all letters, numbers (1-20) and shapes right on the first try. No second guesses, no helping them, 100% to pass. Evan got around 85%. His IQ test went well too, but he still didn't perform well enough to get "to the second round" for kindergarten early admittance. The teacher or whomever tested Evan said he did really well and performed really well for his age. She has no concerns at all for his ability to enter kindergarten... the following year. She said he was a great story teller (and told her how our GPS got us lost and we were almost late) and a funny, engaging kid. We will get a written report on his results in a few weeks.
I am fine with the results and I told Evan that they said he just needed to grow and get a little bigger for kindergarten. (he was pretty sure he was going because a lot of his friends at preschool are going to kindergarten) He didn't seem that upset.
Tim is a bit frustrated. His argument?? "You can't tell me that all kids entering kindergarten can get all of those right on the first try." I cannot say that I will argue with him on that point. Plus, if Evan were born 6 days earlier, we wouldn't be in this situation. But, I am surprised at what Emma needed to know for kindergarten and what they expect of kids. Plus, maybe for the early entrance they needed to ensure that they wouldn't be behind because of age. I am not sure, but no arguing it now.
Anyway - now we know - Evan will start kindergarten in 2014. And he will be just fine and not know any different. that is all that I care about.
I have read the articles, I have heard many, many opinions (everyone has an opinion on this topic) and I wasn't sure. I wanted to hold him back. I was in the same boat as a kid (with my b-day being Sept. 11) and I liked being the older one in my class. I was first to drive, first to drink (legally that is), and well, that was pretty much it. But, then I read articles about how so many parents are doing that now that there is a "term" for it - red shirting - and the experts are not fans. They say, that if the child is ready - send him, which was the same exact advice my pediatrician gave us. He said don't worry about size, don't worry about sports, anything else. If Evan is ready - you should send him.
Tim wanted to send him, I didn't really. Fortunately, Stillwater has a method for this. All early entrance to kindergarten kids need to pass a test to be admitted. And me, being the numbers person that I am, loved the fact that it was based on a quantitative approach and it wasn't subjective. Evan needed to take an academic test and an IQ test. If he passed those, he would go to a simulated kindergarten with real kindergarten teachers to see how he performed. The teachers would provide a recommendation. What I liked even more than just the testing methods was that Stillwater had tracked the kids for the past 25 years and they were 95% accurate with the kids they said should be admitted early.
Tim and I decided that we would get Evan tested and go from there.
He was tested about two weeks ago and he didn't pass. The academic test needed to be 100% - meaning that the kids had to get all letters, numbers (1-20) and shapes right on the first try. No second guesses, no helping them, 100% to pass. Evan got around 85%. His IQ test went well too, but he still didn't perform well enough to get "to the second round" for kindergarten early admittance. The teacher or whomever tested Evan said he did really well and performed really well for his age. She has no concerns at all for his ability to enter kindergarten... the following year. She said he was a great story teller (and told her how our GPS got us lost and we were almost late) and a funny, engaging kid. We will get a written report on his results in a few weeks.
I am fine with the results and I told Evan that they said he just needed to grow and get a little bigger for kindergarten. (he was pretty sure he was going because a lot of his friends at preschool are going to kindergarten) He didn't seem that upset.
Tim is a bit frustrated. His argument?? "You can't tell me that all kids entering kindergarten can get all of those right on the first try." I cannot say that I will argue with him on that point. Plus, if Evan were born 6 days earlier, we wouldn't be in this situation. But, I am surprised at what Emma needed to know for kindergarten and what they expect of kids. Plus, maybe for the early entrance they needed to ensure that they wouldn't be behind because of age. I am not sure, but no arguing it now.
Anyway - now we know - Evan will start kindergarten in 2014. And he will be just fine and not know any different. that is all that I care about.
Sky Zone!
It can be a love/hate relationship with Groupon. Hate because they pepper me with emails (and yes, I have changed some of the settings). Love because of some of the deals they have - such as BOGO at SkyZone.
Skyzone is a trampoline park in Oakdale and I have heard great things from a coworker that takes his family there. I saw the BOGO deal, bought it, and decided to take the family there. FUN - so much FUN!
I was a bit timid when I got there. I didn't see many adults, but my coworker (big 6 foot guy) jumped with his girls and said I had to try it. I am so glad I did. When I first stepped on the trampoline, I couldn't stop giggling! It was so much fun and much bouncier than I thought. Plus - added bonus - a great workout!
Here are some random blurry pics of Sky Zone. They had two dodge ball courts, one large room that was full of trampolines (seen below), two basketball hoops by trampolines, and trampolines that led to a foam pit. I think the foam pit was Emma and Evan's favorite.
All-in-all, totally, totally worth it. Both the kids and I cannot wait to go back. I bought two groupons, so I am sure this will be a Friday afternoon event again.
Skyzone is a trampoline park in Oakdale and I have heard great things from a coworker that takes his family there. I saw the BOGO deal, bought it, and decided to take the family there. FUN - so much FUN!
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| We had an hour there. At first I was worried it wouldn't be enough. By the end of the hour, I was dripping with sweat. |
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| Goofy |
Here are some random blurry pics of Sky Zone. They had two dodge ball courts, one large room that was full of trampolines (seen below), two basketball hoops by trampolines, and trampolines that led to a foam pit. I think the foam pit was Emma and Evan's favorite.
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| JUMP! |
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| There were many laughs in the foam pit. |
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| Trying out a flip! |
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
A fun, relaxing weekend at the cabin
What a great weekend we had! In typical fashion for the summer, we made our way to the cabin on Friday. Atypical is the time we arrived there. Due to Evan's T-ball on Friday nights, we typically do not get out of the house until 8pm or so on Friday. So, time of arrival is roughly 10pm. Too late in my mind, but we only have about 4 more games left until our lives turn somewhat back to normal.
Our weekend was pretty relaxing and we did the typical cabin stuff:
Jammie Fishing -- (yup, I think this has become a tradition now in the mornings)
Paddleboarding -- with kids riding with me, me alone and going almost the whole way around the lake, and the kids alone
Visiting family -- Tim's sister Pat has 10 of the cutest little puppies, so we visited them along with his other sister Jill & brother-n-law Dave. They son & daughter in law were up as well with their 8 month old baby Mallory. Emma and Evan adore her and enjoy trying to make her laugh.
Golfing (see Father's Day post)
Playing in the lake - the weather for the most part was great this past weekend. The kids had fun playing in the lake. I still haven't ventured in.
Reading -- I wish I could have done more - but Emma did her share. She is now into reading Nancy Drew mysteries (a newer version of the stories geared to kids) and spent some time relaxing and reading.
Good times!
Our weekend was pretty relaxing and we did the typical cabin stuff:
Jammie Fishing -- (yup, I think this has become a tradition now in the mornings)
Paddleboarding -- with kids riding with me, me alone and going almost the whole way around the lake, and the kids alone
Visiting family -- Tim's sister Pat has 10 of the cutest little puppies, so we visited them along with his other sister Jill & brother-n-law Dave. They son & daughter in law were up as well with their 8 month old baby Mallory. Emma and Evan adore her and enjoy trying to make her laugh.
Golfing (see Father's Day post)
Playing in the lake - the weather for the most part was great this past weekend. The kids had fun playing in the lake. I still haven't ventured in.
Reading -- I wish I could have done more - but Emma did her share. She is now into reading Nancy Drew mysteries (a newer version of the stories geared to kids) and spent some time relaxing and reading.
Eating -- ugh-- this is why we call the cabin the Fat House. We made homemade onion rings, homemade french fries, and juicy lucy's. YUM doesn't even do it justice.
And sleeping -- this usually happens on the way home. (me too!)
Good times!
Happy Father's Day to Tim
The kids get so excited for any of this stuff, especially when they have gifts and crafts to hand out. So - Saturday morning, yes a day early, the kids got out their presents and cards:
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| Emma's present to Tim: a golf creation |
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| Evan giving Tim a big hug. |
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| Tim and his little kiddo's |
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| One of Evan's presents: a madlib about how great a Dad Tim is. (not sure why it is upside down) |
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| Evan's second present- a nice poem with Evan's footprint |
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| Happy and smiley in the cart! |
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| Happy to be on the course! |
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| Stubborn little Evan |
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| He refused help. "No, I can do it" Even after he whiffed 5 or 6 times. |
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| Emma trying to learn a few things |
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| Tim, Dad, and Em |
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| Probably trying to find his ball |
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| Enjoying the Day |
Overall, a great Fathers Day for Tim - and hopefully my Dad! Anytime out on the golf course is good, but out with the family is only better. I went golfing with my Dad many times when I was a kid in similar fashion to my kids and I am hoping they grow with the opportunity to learn the sport as I did.
Happy Anniversary to us!
Today marks the 9th year of wedded bliss. (most of the time :-) ) haha!
I love thinking back to that day, nine years ago, when we were getting our hair done. Then, I think, at this time nine years ago, I was at The Water Street Inn getting dressed and having some light snacks before we headed to Albertson's Farm. Then - the pictures, hearing the string quartet, being so nervous walking down the aisle that my cheeks were quivering. I remember giving my parents a hug after Tim and I said our vows and lit the unity candle. Dad hugged me tight and said "Ah... my baby." and it made me tear up. Then, my proud brother-in-law Dave giving us a ride back to the Water Street Inn for the party. It was such a wonderful, wonderful day. I will need to find a few pics and post them.
Tim and I are great - really great- nine years after we said "I do". Of course there are times where we are both annoyed with each other and times when I realize that marriage and family are hard. But - it is the best at the same time. The comfort in knowing that I get to come home to Tim is great. The decisions that we make together and the respect that we have for each other is wonderful and our friendship is constantly growing. I couldn't love more the family we have made together and I am thankful everyday that we have each other.
There have been many reminders around me lately that life is short and that you never know what a day will bring (good or bad). So, for however long my journey is, I am glad that I choose Tim.
Happy Anniversary! And Many, Many More.
I love thinking back to that day, nine years ago, when we were getting our hair done. Then, I think, at this time nine years ago, I was at The Water Street Inn getting dressed and having some light snacks before we headed to Albertson's Farm. Then - the pictures, hearing the string quartet, being so nervous walking down the aisle that my cheeks were quivering. I remember giving my parents a hug after Tim and I said our vows and lit the unity candle. Dad hugged me tight and said "Ah... my baby." and it made me tear up. Then, my proud brother-in-law Dave giving us a ride back to the Water Street Inn for the party. It was such a wonderful, wonderful day. I will need to find a few pics and post them.
Tim and I are great - really great- nine years after we said "I do". Of course there are times where we are both annoyed with each other and times when I realize that marriage and family are hard. But - it is the best at the same time. The comfort in knowing that I get to come home to Tim is great. The decisions that we make together and the respect that we have for each other is wonderful and our friendship is constantly growing. I couldn't love more the family we have made together and I am thankful everyday that we have each other.
There have been many reminders around me lately that life is short and that you never know what a day will bring (good or bad). So, for however long my journey is, I am glad that I choose Tim.
Happy Anniversary! And Many, Many More.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Our weekend at the farm
Last weekend (first one in June) Evan, Emma, and I ventured to the farm to visit Nana and Papa and to attend the big Durand Funfest parade. As many of you know, the weather lately has been a bit less than desired. It has been unseasonably cold, overly rainy, and just overall depressing. We had a few nice weather moments last weekend, but overall it still seemed to be much of the same.
In-between the rain, we had a ball! We always have to get a ride on Papa's gator and go through the fields. That is probably one of their favorite things to do. We all loaded up ( the three of us, Nana, Papa, cousin Andrew, and aunt Kim) and first went to go and visit baby chicks at cousin Joel's house. They were adorable! The kids loved fishing around for them in their little coop and holding them. They were so soft and cute!
After that visit, it was down to little Bear Creek to dip our feet in. We drive through the creek (pronounced Crick for all you non-farmers) first to see the water shoot up over the gator and then rest on the side for the kids to put their feet in. The water is cold, but it never stops them!
After that visit, it was back to the farm to climb in the dirt piles at Nana and Papa's house. As they are still landscaping their new house, there were three dirt piles that were just calling the kids names. They took advantage of the dirt for like an hour - rolling down, playing king of the hill, and digging for treasure. From that adventure it was carrying both kids through the house and immediately putting them in the shower. But, it was a good time to get clean as we had to go into town for a favorite treat when visiting the farm during the summer - The Panther Drive In! It is a little hamburger/ice cream/fried goodness drive-in that we always have to stop and visit when we are home. Yum!
Then it was homemade pizza, movie night, and to bed for two little tired kiddos.
The next day was the big parade and on & off rain! Not a good combination! Kristen and her brood came down late morning, which led to much more noise and busy-ness in the house. Rain or Shine, we decided we would go to the parade to get them out of the house. That lead to this:
I want to say it rained the entire time for the parade. We scrounged up many umbrella's, old tablecloths for the sidewalk, and blankets to go on top of those. The rain didn't really seem to bother the kids, who were scurrying up and down their end of the road for candy. They enjoyed the candy, waving at the princesses, and the adventure in the rain. Sage enjoyed the candy much more as while it was laying on the kitchen counter to dry, Sage decided to eat it... almost all of it! We came down from our bedroom for the night to see the candy almost eaten, sucker sticks lying on the ground, and to Sage with a Skittle wrapper hanging out of her mouth. The kids were pretty disappointed.
As I am told a lot (haha) we don't make it down to the farm enough. The kids loving seeing the cows, riding the gator, and most importantly seeing Nana and Papa!
In-between the rain, we had a ball! We always have to get a ride on Papa's gator and go through the fields. That is probably one of their favorite things to do. We all loaded up ( the three of us, Nana, Papa, cousin Andrew, and aunt Kim) and first went to go and visit baby chicks at cousin Joel's house. They were adorable! The kids loved fishing around for them in their little coop and holding them. They were so soft and cute!
After that visit, it was down to little Bear Creek to dip our feet in. We drive through the creek (pronounced Crick for all you non-farmers) first to see the water shoot up over the gator and then rest on the side for the kids to put their feet in. The water is cold, but it never stops them!
After that visit, it was back to the farm to climb in the dirt piles at Nana and Papa's house. As they are still landscaping their new house, there were three dirt piles that were just calling the kids names. They took advantage of the dirt for like an hour - rolling down, playing king of the hill, and digging for treasure. From that adventure it was carrying both kids through the house and immediately putting them in the shower. But, it was a good time to get clean as we had to go into town for a favorite treat when visiting the farm during the summer - The Panther Drive In! It is a little hamburger/ice cream/fried goodness drive-in that we always have to stop and visit when we are home. Yum!
Then it was homemade pizza, movie night, and to bed for two little tired kiddos.
The next day was the big parade and on & off rain! Not a good combination! Kristen and her brood came down late morning, which led to much more noise and busy-ness in the house. Rain or Shine, we decided we would go to the parade to get them out of the house. That lead to this:
I want to say it rained the entire time for the parade. We scrounged up many umbrella's, old tablecloths for the sidewalk, and blankets to go on top of those. The rain didn't really seem to bother the kids, who were scurrying up and down their end of the road for candy. They enjoyed the candy, waving at the princesses, and the adventure in the rain. Sage enjoyed the candy much more as while it was laying on the kitchen counter to dry, Sage decided to eat it... almost all of it! We came down from our bedroom for the night to see the candy almost eaten, sucker sticks lying on the ground, and to Sage with a Skittle wrapper hanging out of her mouth. The kids were pretty disappointed.
As I am told a lot (haha) we don't make it down to the farm enough. The kids loving seeing the cows, riding the gator, and most importantly seeing Nana and Papa!
Swimming Lessons
While Emma is at T-ball on Wednesday nights, Evan is at swimming lessons. He is taking level two lessons at the Stillwater Courage Center and he is participating in private lessons at the moment. Tim is a big fan of individual attention for things like this, so we indulge in private lessons when they are still learning the basics. Evan has a great teacher and absolutely loves them.
And... he tries real hard. :-) He doesn't seem to be a natural swimmer like Emma is. Evan tends to sink a bit more and flounder around a bit, but... he tries real hard! They are working on the front crawl for 3 strokes then he is to flip on his back and do 3 strokes, flip back to front, etc. he struggles with the flip and often needs help getting afloat again.
But, the most important thing is that he is incredibly comfortable in the water and loves being in there. The perfect stroke will come.
And... he tries real hard. :-) He doesn't seem to be a natural swimmer like Emma is. Evan tends to sink a bit more and flounder around a bit, but... he tries real hard! They are working on the front crawl for 3 strokes then he is to flip on his back and do 3 strokes, flip back to front, etc. he struggles with the flip and often needs help getting afloat again.
But, the most important thing is that he is incredibly comfortable in the water and loves being in there. The perfect stroke will come.
Evan as a Rockie
And, just like his big sister, Evan is playing t-ball this year! He really loves the game as well and feels like such a big boy that he can participate in a sport. Our little neighbor (who we met thru softball) plays as well and Evan is pretty sure they are the best of friends.
Oh, this is an interesting game to watch. While Emma's team is starting to make plays and understand what is going on, these little guys (and gals - it is a coed team) are just out there... well... trying. The kids hit off a T, which is nice, and when a ball is hit, all 12 kids run to the ball - no matter where it goes. Evan included - he loves getting the ball. He has cried a few times in the past when the ball sneaks past him or he doesn't get a chance to get one.
It is a disjointed two inning game, but it is so cute! They try real hard and some get into it. And others only get into the treat afterwards... Evan included too.
Tim is the coach to this team as well. Evan plays on Friday nights and often we are packed and ready to go to the cabin when the game is done. Most importantly, he absolutely loves being out there and he tries so hard!
Emma as a Hummingbird
This year, Emma is playing softball! Some of you may remember two years ago when Emma played T-ball and was the only girl on her team. It didn't go over so well. She was going into Kindergarten, was a bit shy, and wasn't so sure about the game. Because of that, she didn't want to play last year. This year however, it is a different story. She is playing softball, coach pitch ball, and is loving it.
Tim is one of her coaches, which she likes as well and it is fun to see how much her understanding of the game has increased. She is on a girls team (which she loves) and they are starting to hustle a little bit more and can actually get people out now, which helps increase the motivation a bit. It is coach pitch and with a bit of practice, she is starting to hit them pretty well! There is a bit of playing in the dirt when boredom comes in, but it isn't as often. More often, they are just waiting in "ready" position for the next ball to come there way.
I still think the best part of softball for the girls is treat time, but that is okay. A bit of motivation never hurt anyone!
Softball occupies two nights of her week. She has practice on Wednesday nights and games on Thursday nights. They run until the end of July... and... I am ready for it to be done! Our nights during the week get too busy! But, I love seeing how much she enjoys it. She even exclaimed the other night "It is so fun going to softball when I LOVE the practice!" She is making some little friends too, which helps.
They vary the position played and the batting order so people get to try everything. Technically no one wins (yet) but I think the girls can tell how well they are doing. It is fun!
Tim is one of her coaches, which she likes as well and it is fun to see how much her understanding of the game has increased. She is on a girls team (which she loves) and they are starting to hustle a little bit more and can actually get people out now, which helps increase the motivation a bit. It is coach pitch and with a bit of practice, she is starting to hit them pretty well! There is a bit of playing in the dirt when boredom comes in, but it isn't as often. More often, they are just waiting in "ready" position for the next ball to come there way.
I still think the best part of softball for the girls is treat time, but that is okay. A bit of motivation never hurt anyone!
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| My little #10 |
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| Practicing her swing |
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| Mom! Enough pictures! |
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| a bit of sassy Emma |
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| In yellow and in ready position |
They vary the position played and the batting order so people get to try everything. Technically no one wins (yet) but I think the girls can tell how well they are doing. It is fun!
Monday, June 10, 2013
Emma's last day of school
And... just as soon as it started, her year of first grade is over.
Emma had a great, great year and had a wonderful teacher and made many great new friends. I am amazed at how far she has come with reading and math and still marvel at the concepts they are teaching in first grade. First grade definitely isn't what it was when I was there. She learned so much about bugs, plants, math problem solving, weather, and of course, time and money. She often came home happy to sing me the songs they were learning in music and was always excited about the new shark book she brought home from school.
She really enjoys reading, which is great. For awhile I was nervous as she didn't seem to care whether she practiced her reading or not. Now, she enjoys going to bed and asking "Mom, can I stay up a little later and finish my chapter?" Of course!! She and her friend Breezy just decided that they are going to start a summer book club, which I think will be a lot of fun. We will see how far it progresses, but the fact that they wanted to start one is neat.
Emma's summer plans include an extended trip to the cabin, a vacation to Wisconsin Dells (with her first trip to Noah's Ark hopefully!), a week spent on the farm with Nana and Papa, and her days will be spent back at Theresa's during the week, which she couldn't be more excited about. We debated about her summer plans for quite awhile and toured a few summer places and spoke to her about different camps, but in the end, nothing could compare to going to her second home at Theresa's and spending time with her best friend Breezy.
I am so proud of Emma with everything she has accomplished this year. As sad as I am sometimes that time flies by so fast, it is so neat to see how excited she is to learn and to watch her grow.
Emma had a great, great year and had a wonderful teacher and made many great new friends. I am amazed at how far she has come with reading and math and still marvel at the concepts they are teaching in first grade. First grade definitely isn't what it was when I was there. She learned so much about bugs, plants, math problem solving, weather, and of course, time and money. She often came home happy to sing me the songs they were learning in music and was always excited about the new shark book she brought home from school.
She really enjoys reading, which is great. For awhile I was nervous as she didn't seem to care whether she practiced her reading or not. Now, she enjoys going to bed and asking "Mom, can I stay up a little later and finish my chapter?" Of course!! She and her friend Breezy just decided that they are going to start a summer book club, which I think will be a lot of fun. We will see how far it progresses, but the fact that they wanted to start one is neat.
Emma's summer plans include an extended trip to the cabin, a vacation to Wisconsin Dells (with her first trip to Noah's Ark hopefully!), a week spent on the farm with Nana and Papa, and her days will be spent back at Theresa's during the week, which she couldn't be more excited about. We debated about her summer plans for quite awhile and toured a few summer places and spoke to her about different camps, but in the end, nothing could compare to going to her second home at Theresa's and spending time with her best friend Breezy.
I am so proud of Emma with everything she has accomplished this year. As sad as I am sometimes that time flies by so fast, it is so neat to see how excited she is to learn and to watch her grow.
Sunday, June 2, 2013
The Twins Game
And one more catch up post:
Mother's Day we ventured to Target Field to see the Twin's game. Emma's school was offering tickets and we decided to take the kids and Mom and Dad to a game.
Emma was getting over the stomach flu, but as she had over 24 hours without any incidents we thought we all would be good to go. We were, but I was still a bit leary of going.
It was fairly cold at the game and we had seats way, way up there in the upperdeck. I was able to upgrade and get some on the lower deck, so that made for better viewing.
Evan was sitting on an outside seat on the aisle and enjoyed listening to all the food vendors yelling their food available for sale. As he has Mom and Dad wrapped around his little finger, he swindled hot cocoa, popcorn, hotdogs, candy, and many other things from vendors as they would walk by. Emma snuggled up next to me for part of the game as her little body was drained from the day before. She did enjoy a hotdog, candy, and a few other things from the game but mostly slept on my lap or just relaxed.
Everyone enjoyed the game for the most part. The Twins did not win unfortunately, but for our first game there I would say it was a success. We took the light rail in, which is always a fun adventure for the kids as well.
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