On Friday, June 5th, my little girl became a Kindergarten graduate. I can't imagine how since it seemed only yesterday that I walked her to school for her first day and sometime last month that I brought her home from the hospital, but it is true.


We have been very blessed with two wonderful teachers this year. The program that they put together was amazing and brings tears to my eyes as I sit here and write about it. They sang several songs that were clearly practiced for weeks. All smiles with almost each one missing at least one tooth, they sang their little hearts out for their friends and families.


Once the singing was finished, Mrs. Wallingford started a slideshow comprised of photos from events throughout the year. As if the photos weren't enough, there were songs . . . sad songs . . . We've Only Just Begun and Let Them Be Little and as I looked at my Mom we both started laughing because our faces were covered in tears and mascara. I can't imagine what a mess I will be when she graduates 5th grade or high school or college or let's not even mention her wedding and babies.


There was one photo of Kennedy and her first love Josh on their field trip. The photo was taken from behind. They were sitting together on a bench, shoulder to shoulder. It truly was the romance of the year. But all good things must come to an end and as she migrated toward the girls and he migrated toward the boys, the relationship fell apart. He will always be her first love other than her Daddy.

So, now summer officially begins with Daisy Camp and Dance Nationals. Hopefully we can fit some swim lessons in at some point and then before you know it, we'll be making that walk to first grade.

Thank heavens for great teachers and all the effort that they put into their jobs. Hopefully we'll be as fortunate in first grade as we were in Kindergarten.

Look What Daddy Taught Me

As most of you are aware, in the game of Life with 2 Little Ones, there is never a quiet or dull moment and every second is another learning experience. Last week as I was running around like a mad woman trying to get everyone where they were supposed to be without a second to spare, I grabbed a pair of dress pants for Jaxon to wear to Kennedy's piano recital. I supposed I had forgotten how much children grow in a 6 month period because the pants that were falling off 6 months ago, we were barely able to button. I finally got everything tucked in after quite a struggle and was able to get the button in the hole.

Following the recital, as Brian was on his way to the little boys room, I forewarned him of the fact that the pants were apparently 2 sizes too small. Jaxon has been potty-trained for over a year now, but I guess we've really never had reason to show him the way the big boys go potty without actually pulling down the front of the pants. Brian, not wanting to deal with the screaming button, apparently thought this to be a good time to do just that, so he did, with success.

So, we made our way home and I was in the kitchen getting school items ready for the next morning, when I heard Jaxon come around the corner. My back was to him, but he said in his very loud little voice, "Look what Daddy taught me" and when I turned, there was my adorabe little boy with his khaki dress pants, polo button up dress shirt and black loafers standing there with everything exposed through the zipper of his pants. It was quite a site, but he was so proud of himself and had the biggest, cheesiest grin ever. My little 4 year old version of a flasher. His father obviously gave him very good instructions since he was able to get everything out all by himself without injury. I very quickly reminded him that it was even more important to be just as careful putting it all away.

Happy Birthday To Me

Another year of family, friends and fun. What more could one want? Every year brings changes to our life. Another birthday . . . It's been a good day. It started off with breakfast in bed from Brian and the kids. Then just a lazy relaxing morning. This afternoon, I watched my baby girl test for her first Tae Kwon Do belt. She did great and seems to really like it. Went to a low key dinner and we are planning to go to see the Zac Brown band tomorrow night at the Birchmere. Somehow I don't feel 42, but I guess that's what it all adds up to. I am feeling the need to start working out again as I do find myself just a little stiff in the morning. Maybe tomorrow . . . I got lots of calls and emails today making me really appreciate those special people in my life. Well, off to sleep and end another birthday. In what seems like a day, I'll be 43. I'll just try to enjoy those small moments and take time to smell the roses.

Why?

So, why am I here writing this right now? Because one day, this will be all that is left along with photos and video and memories. This along with those items will jog the memory of my little ones to remember the instances that I write about during these times that I make record of my thoughts. I've alway enjoyed writing and this offers me the forum to share with friends and family and those who follow behind me the great stories that my children provide every single day . . . the laughter, the tears, the anger and frustration (of coures, I'm human) and most of all the love. This is the reason I'm here.