Mirror Mirror on the Wall

Mirror, mirror, on the wall...

I am my mother after all!

Oh Lilly, how you're so much like me...

You love your sweets.

You love to sleep in.

Things need to be done in a certain order.

Things need to be done a certain way!

Nobody can stop you when you're mind is made up.

Nobody can stop you from dreaming big!

You love to dress up.

You hate to be dirty.

Being creative gives you energy.

Being with friends makes you happy.

You are sensitive, yet tough.

You are strong willed, yet sweet.

You are you!

and that's what I love!

A, B, C...look at Me!

This is Lilly on the first day of school. She started her second year of preschool today and is all smiles. Mrs. Smoley will be working with Lilly three mornings a week. She was excited about her new locker, seeing her friends from last year's class, and coming to school with Nolan and me. Lilly has really become an independent girl this past year and we are so glad she is excited about going back to school. We look forward to hearing about all the fun things you're learning this year.

Back to Class

Mrs. Lohn

Waiting for the first day of school had Nolan filled with complete excitement. In fact, he's been dreaming about it and talking about it for close to two weeks already. Hearing the details and answering the hundreds of questions he had, brought a smile to my face every time he'd discuss it.

Going "back to school" is something that has always excited me as a child, and honestly still does (for the most part). The early morning alarm, homework, and tight schedule can make it difficult, but luckily I have a supportive, hands-on hubby at home to help ease the load when it gets tough.

He woke up on his own this morning (earlier than he had to) and was ready in a flash. No reminders to get moving, brush his teeth, or comb his hair. He had his bed made and was down for breakfast before the sleep was washed from my eyes. With a great big smile on his face, a spring in his step, and a new backpack on his back, my little guy entered the building one step ahead of me. Look out first grade...here he comes!

Nolan returned to me at the end of the day with a grin so wide, I thought his cheeks were going to crack. He had stories to share, made new friends, and told me he can't wait to go back. We both agreed that this was going to be his best year yet!

Colorado Trip

Mike was able to make another trip to Colorado with his friends this summer. It's become an annual trip for him and something he really looks forward to. He tries to tell me that it's not really a "fun" getaway because it's so labor intensive. I agree with the strenuous workout part (they mountain bike close to eight hours a day through rough terrain), but I would have to disagree with the "fun" part. I know these guys are enjoying every minute of their time in the mountains. Don't get me wrong sweetie...I am happy to see you getting away with your friends, doing what you love! Ride on!

Super Hero

It's a bird!
It's a plane!

It's Super-Nolan!

Nolan rescued this beautiful monarch butterfly today. The innocent little creature found its way to Nolan's finger and sat there for quite some time. I was amazed! I thought it had to be injured since it wasn't flying off of his hand, but that wasn't the case. It actually did fly away and then came back again. I am not sure what this symbolizes, but Nolan was pretty happy about his special rescue mission.

Neighborhood Picnic

Our neighborhood hosts a family picnic each year at the park on the end of our block. This year they hired a game-works company to entertain the kids. They brought in laser tag, a van which was fully equipped with a variety of video games, and this human hamster ball. We enjoyed visiting with all of our wonderful neighbors and the kids had a blast!

Bake Me a Cake

Lilly loves to help me in the kitchen! She is always around when it's time to make dinner and excitedly volunteers her services when I'm cooking. We purchased an Easy Bake Oven for Lilly so she could experience baking. It's been fun for her to whip up a master piece or two. :) Using the mixer and licking off the beaters is always a treat!

Date Nights

Mike and I have been trading our babysitting services with the Kruse and Stein families. When it's our turn, we entertain and feed six children, so their parents can spend time together. When it's not our turn, Mike and I get to enjoy a date. We look forward to our time together. Most dates start out with a workout and are followed by a dinner. These date nights are something we really look forward to...as do the kids.

BMX Boy

BMX Boy!
New Redline Bike
At the gate and ready for racing!

Your biggest fan!

Even dad joined you on several laps.

Bad to the Bone!

Nolan was anxious to try something new this summer. He enjoys playing sports, but hadn't really found "his thing"...until, BMX!!! This is a sport unlike no other, and Nolan's "no fear" mentality was perfect for it. We started by signing him up for three sessions of community ed. to test the waters. In one short session, his adrenalin was running high. He was pumped and ready to commit. Mike, being the big biker that he is, was all for it! In fact, he was thrilled. To have a son who had the desire to do crazy things while riding a bike, was like a dream come true. We coughed up the dough for a season membership and committed ourselves to taking Nolan on a regular basis. He worked really hard and did well for a beginner. There is no messing with Nolan... this BMX boy is one bad biker!

Summer Soul Mates

Look at you two dolls! These girls spend just about every day together. Harper, our little neighbor girl, loves to play dress-up, dolls, and house just as much as our little peanut does. There were many mornings when I heard the doorbell ring before 9:00a.m. I would come down(often in my pajamas) to see two twinkling eyes peeking through the window on the door. It was Harper, looking for her soul mate. Lilly would hurry down after me with a big smile on her face, because her girlfriend was over to play. The girls could easily entertain themselves and loved every minute they spent together. They could really do a number on the toy area let me tell you. The few minutes it took me to clean it up, was worth every minute of fun they'd have. I got to see a lot of shows, dances, and stunts. I also got to help paint nails, set up art projects, bake, and pass out treats. There was never a dull moment when you two were together. I just love this photo...two peas in a pod that is for sure.! Your friendship is special and it's been fun watching it grow.