Colin's Second First Day

Today was Colin's first day staying at preschool all by himself. It went really well! We went into his classroom together and got him situated with some trucks, and I told him that it was time to say goodbye. We said "bye" and "I love you" and then I told him that I wouldn't be going home, but hanging around the neighborhood until it was time to pick him up (which was true). He said, "I think that's a great idea, Mom. I'm going to be just fine." I was shocked! He's been pretty nervous, so I really expected at least a little crying. After school, his teacher told me that he was great, a little nervous sometimes, but mostly smiling and participating. I guess the only one with tears today was me!

Here he is, just before we left. School isn't quite as scary when you're wearing a sweet motorcycle shirt.

I'm really losing it now...

Today was Colin's first day of preschool. I do not want sweet little baby Colin to be a big boy. I guess I have no choice.

I got to join Colin at school for his first day, which was really good for him. He's nervous inside but definitely trying to be brave, and I'm really proud of him. He did really well, and found that there were some amazing toys in his new class, and seven other fairly calm and nice looking children. He even gave his teacher a hug at the end, and he thought that was pretty great. Also, cubbies for backpacks were very impressive for Colin.

I had to laugh when I saw this picture. This face makes its appearance very often- top lip disappears, bottom lip marshmallows out. I think this was a nervous moment.

I'm Freaking Out

Amelia is starting Kindergarten. She'll be gone every day. Yikes.

Yesterday was the first day, and Moms got to go with the kids for an hour to get them comfortable. Amelia seemed to really like her teacher, and she was really giggly and excited. Today was her first day going by herself, and she looked much more nervous. When the teacher came to walk the kindergartners to class and told them to kiss their parents, I almost collapsed. Fortunately, watching her run to her teacher wearing a ridiculously large backpack on her tiny little back made me laugh and helped me keep it together until I got back to the car. How can she be a kindergartner!?

Smiling on the first day

Colin is nervous about his first day, which is coming up next week. Each day he asks me in a scared little voice if today is the day.

Jack looking on.

Amelia on the second day of school, which seemed more like a first day of school, therefore deserving it's own photo and special (and superior) outfit.


Her first art project, something she's been looking forward to for weeks! The teacher read the kids a book about a racoon going to school for the first time and it's mother giving it a special kiss on the hand. This kiss was for me!

Another taste...

The first day of my parents' visit was spent exploring New York City. It was a quick day trip, but tons of fun! Highlights included: Times Square, 5th Ave, Magnolia Bakery, a couple of subway trips, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Financial District.

Mike getting friendly with the Wall Street Bull.

Mike chasing the kids on Ellis Island.

Admiring the skyline from Ellis Island.

Our view of the Statue of Liberty from on top of the pedestal, 156 stairs from the ground.

Kisses

My parents came to town! Here's a photo of the kids kissing Dad, who had to leave on Sunday. We miss you already, Papa!

Happy 50th Mom!

Happy birthday, Mom! This is the poster I made for the party, since it was the only thing I could contribute from here. Hope it was grand!

Jack can crawl!!

After working on crawling with Jack's physical therapist for what seemed like forever, Jack finally made a breakthrough! He can crawl!!! It is so much fun to see him movin' and groovin'. He started off wearing his special little support shorts to help him keep his legs closer together, but in only a couple of days he has graduated to full on, shorts-free, high speed crawling. He now engages in regular "grazing" (crawling all over a room, searching for bits of debris to eat, regardless of whether or not it is edible) and I'm going to have to step up my housekeeping efforts. Hooray, Jack!

Colin's Drawing

Today Colin made the best drawing! He's been drawing some recognizable things for a little while, but this was the first I was able to scan. On the top right corner in blue is Lightning McQueen (of course). You can see the face, and the little blobs just beneath are tires. On the bottom in blue is a snake named Sarah (no offense, Sarah). I love it!

Sitting on Ben's Lap

Checking out the pond

Chinatown

Today our Philly adventure led us to some delectable dim sum in Chinatown, at a restaraunt called Ocean Garden. It was amazing and delicious!

At the entrance to Chinatown

Jack quickly observed that we use chopsticks to get our food, so he tried to help himself to the shrimp stuffed bell peppers (an excellent choice). When he failed, he practiced his drumming skills.

Valley Forge

Friday we went to see Valley Forge for the first time. It's only about 30 minutes away, and it's amazing! We'll definitely be heading back again soon. There were so many cool things to see, and it is a beautiful park.

In front of the Memorial Arch (commissioned in 1917!)

Under the arch

Checking out a cool building

Amelia & Colin in an instant classic!

I taught Amelia and Colin the song "Faith" and tried to get them to sing it for me. These are the results. Please excuse the prompting and my singing. For the record, I have no idea what's wrong with Colin's underwear!

NYC Pics

The family in Central Park

Me and Colin at Rockefeller Center

Kids playing the giant piano at FAO Schwartz


Taking a spontaneous break after too much fun looking at toys.

Mike and kids at the Plaza