life in general

ready or not

Right now, as I type this, there are pre-registration papers for middle school sitting on my kitchen counter.  Ya, that's right.  Middle School.

And suddenly we are there.  Ready or not!

The other night Conner and I attended a Parents' Night at his future middle school.  Just driving up to the place felt like a big step.  And the place is big.  I believe the enrollment is 1600 students.

A few clubs & sports had booths set up . . . . lacrosse, basketball, golf, Krypto Club, archery, national junior honors society, . . . 

Then we filed into the gym for a program.  As we sat there I watched the other parents & kids make their way in, the cheerleaders practiced a routine on the floor, girls & boys gathered with friends, some looked a little like deer in the headlights, most fighting through the awkward stage.  Each one on the cusp of realizing this new world of growth & socialization & peers.  I thought to myself, this is a whole new ball game.

We watched and occasionally I looked at Conner and smiled -- reminding him that this wasn't the best place to break out into an imaginary Star Wars battle.

The program included a speech by the student body president, performances by the choir, orchestra, band, cheerleaders, and dance team, and a welcome by the principal.  Conner went back to the school today on a field trip with all the 5th graders from his school (and other elementary schools).  Again, they had a tour of the school and another assembly with the same performances.  This was their preview into the school's electives.

He gets to choose one elective for his schedule.  There are 4 choices for 6th graders:  Choir, Band, Orchestra, and Exploration (a rotation through 4 different subjects).  After much consideration this week (I'll spare you the details -- but it involved a sudden, random desire to play the violin) he settled on a ranked list with men's choir in his number 1 spot.  I think he will love it.  I mean, they sang "Don't Stop Believin'" and the director is a cool young guy.

I was very pleased to see that all of his teachers recommended him for the advanced classes in every subject.  I know he performs at that level, I just wasn't sure if his teachers would have taken notice after such a short time spent together.  

One thing I'm really excited about is their Summer Institute.  Incoming 6th graders can sign up for a 4-day "camp" of sorts during the month of August.  They come to the school for 3 hours/day for an opportunity to become familiar with the campus, learn school procedures, organize their binders, meet their teachers, practice opening their lockers, walk their schedule, and meet new friends.  So so happy about this.  He is signed up and ready to go!

Oh and more crazy thing -- their 6th grade outdoor school is held on Catalina Island.  Yep.  Activities include snorkeling and kayaking.  Oh my word.

In other news, we finished the science project.  Hallelujah!  And tonight he wrapped up his country research report on Denmark (a country of your heritage).

We are soooo happy that tomorrow is Friday!

The Hover Fan

For Conner, part of adjusting to this new school has been getting used to having homework and lots of it!  3 hours a day spent on homework has been the norm around here.  And on many days it stretches out even longer.

Sheesh.

We have been looking forward to spring break, mostly for a break from the homework.  In Conner's words last week, "I just have to make it through one more day and then I can be at peace!"

Now in the middle of spring break, we have indeed found peace.

For the last 2 weeks, on top of his regular homework, Conner also had a project in writing class.  An invention.  He had to create a model, write a letter to the government to request a patent, write a descriptive essay, and make a video or live presentation of a commercial that would entice others to buy his product.

It was a race to get everything done . . . he had 2 weeks to complete the project, whereas the rest of the class had been working on it for a month . . . but we did it.

Here is his commercial.  We had fun making it and Conner was thrilled with the way his model turned out.  I give you . . . The Hover Fan!

 

 

little red schoolhouse

Since 2007 our kids have attended a charter school in the most adorable little red schoolhouse.  It is situated out in the country among rolling hills, past large pastures with roaming cows, next to a holly tree farm, with a lovely drive that provides morning views that can take your breath away. 

We have loved it.  And our kids have been dearly loved there.  We've been fortunate to have some great teachers who "get" our kids.  

Lots of great memories, relationships, and learning has come out of this place.

On Conner's last day his teacher set aside some time for a good-bye party.  He brought cookies, I think they played a little game, and Conner had an opportunity to show off his best bendy joints trick in front of the class.  He went with the leg behind his head trick.  ;)

Payton's teacher held a party on Payton's last Friday.  She popped popcorn and they got to watch a movie.  It was a surprise -- he didn't know this was going to happen until it started.

Anna's last day almost didn't happen.  We woke up on that tuesday morning and got the phone call informing us of 2-hour late start due to snow.  When there is a 2-hour late start AM kindergarten is cancelled.  I was just heart-broken for her!  A few minutes later she came into our bedroom all dressed for school asking, "can you zip me up?"  Oh my, that brought up the emotions.  I looked at Scott and mouthed, "I just can't - you tell her."  Not too much longer I got an e-mail from her teacher wanting to re-schedule or make accomodations for Anna to stop in the next day (even just for 5 minutes) so they could say good-bye to her.  Luckily, we would be in town the next day.  And luckily our awesome friends the Habels let me borrow a vehicle for the day so I could get her to school.  (The plan was for Scott and the boys to start driving on Wednesday - so I would be van-less, Anna and I would stay behind to clean the house, and then fly out on thursday.) 

So Anna's last day party did happen.  It was also a surprise for her.  I was so thankful to her teachers for setting aside a chunk of classtime for her.  And additionally grateful for the class mom who showed up with cookies and drinks for all the kids!  Seriously, the state of my mind and the house in that last week was so far away from me being able to think about and put together treats for my kids' classes on the last day.  So many awesome teachers and parents stepped up to the plate and made these important memories happen for my children and I am so so so grateful.

And if a going away party wasn't enough one awesome mom, Ellen B., put together a wonderful keepsake for each of my kids.  She is the 5th grade class mom and waaay back last September when we announced we were moving, she got going on a project for Conner.

He received a binder with notes from each of his classmates.  "Conner, my favorite things about you are . . ."

What a treasure!  The common themes are playing four-square, writing a book, and being smart.

Ellen also went on to share the idea and materials with Payton's 3rd grade class, and Anna's Kindergarten class.  She didn't want any of my kids to be left out.  Talk about so sweet and thoughtful and going over & beyond.  

It was so fun to watch the kids huddle around Payton as he flipped through the book.  They all wanted to point out the pages that they made.

Common themes in Payton's book:  funny/silly, likes the color blue, plays on the swings a lot, smart, he is crazy.

A few priceless excerpts:

• You take a good sniff of your mom every morning.
• I will make sure I remember you so much Payton.  And I will talk with Brooke about you so much.
• You have a lot of energy.
• You always make me laugh when you laugh.
• Here is a poem just for you:  Payton I know you are moving it's just so sad. I will miss you forever and it's just so sad.
• You are so kind to the new kids.

After school we looked at the book and Payton shared that he had learned that over a period of time, the kids in his class took turns missing recess so they could stay inside and complete their pages for Payton.  Keeping it a secret from him the whole time. Oh my heart!  Imagining these sweet 3rd graders giving up a recess -- the thing they all hold precious and dear in their school day  . . . . if that isn't a tear-jerker

Anna's teachers wrapped her book in a pink bag with pink tissue paper and presented it to her while she sat in front of the class.  You can just imagine how her face lit up when she heard the word "present" and saw the color pink.  :)

A week or two earlier the teachers had spent some time taking some photos of the class at recess and posing with Anna at her desk and included those in her book.  I think she absolutely loved it.

And I won't mention the fact that I shed a few big tears as I looked through it.  In the classroom.  The day before we watched all our belongings get packed up into a moving truck, we spent the night on the floor in an empty house, and that morning I said good-bye to Scott and the boys as they headed out on the road.  I think I'm justified in being a bit emotional!

I think my favorite entry came from her friend Jaren -- Anna, my favorite things about you are . . . "Your hair and your shoes.  I love your smell and the way you're nice.  I like that you are funny and happy."  Hehe.  They have a super cute relationship.  I drove Jaren home on this day and I had so much fun listening to their little conversation.

• Anna:  "What would I do without a friend named Jaren."
• Jaren:  "I think I'm going to cry when you leave."

Sweet, right?

Well, I don't want this post go on forever.  But I just wanted to record this incredibly thoughtful and much appreciated keepsake that each of the kids received.  Thanks to Ellen, the kids' teachers, and all the parents who helped their children write and submit these pages.  They will be treasured!

new school // first day follow-up

Anna:  Other than the fire drill that scared her to bits, I think she had a pretty successful day.  She was too shy to tell the class her name.  But now that she knows everyone she can talk to them today.  She loved music -- they sang counting songs and she got partnered up with Benjamin for an actions song (shake hands, high-five, and hug).  There is a Conner and a Payton in her class.  But most importantly the Payton is also a boy!  (a rare find these days).  This morning she found a friend as she walked into the kindergarten play yard and I heard the girl say, "Hi Anna."  Being 6 is awesome -- all you have to do is say hi and you're instant friends.

Payton:  He broke into tears in the morning when the teacher instructed that all their work had to be done in cursive.  He's been practicing cursive on worksheets, but he hasn't had to write exclusively that way.  She told him it would be okay to write however he liked (she felt bad).  But she says that not too much later he was writing everything in cursive.  That's Payton.  He gets pretty jarred initially when there is a change to the routine or something he "thinks" he doesn't know how to do -- but then he's able to adapt and figure it out pretty quickly.  He was also a little grumpy about lunch time and the fact that all the kids were squishing him on the bench.  I'm not sure that he met anyone today -- it sounds like he played by himself on the play structure.  He was excited to start earning his ice cream sundae by passing off multiplication facts.  The teacher has some fun incentive programs that I think he is excited about.  His morning line-up routine is pretty simple, so he has that part figured out.

Conner:  Well, when I picked him up and asked how his day was . . . he gave me a thumbs down.  But as we talked about each subject/class I was able to pull a positive out of each one.  The boys in his class were really nice and they kept asking him to sit at their table.  His class rotates to 6 different classrooms and he was always the one at the end of line because it took him so much time to write the homework in his assignment book.  And one time his class left him behind.  But he was able to catch up.  He liked writing and science class the best.  We had a torturous afternoon trying to sort and get through all his new homework.  (Finally finished at 9pm).  Hopefully today will be better.  One of the most challenging things for him is knowing where he is supposed to go first thing in the morning (it changes everyday).  I tried to track down his homeroom teacher this morning to get my hands on a schedule this morning, but no luck.  I told the office and they are going to help us get that information.  This morning we found a very nice and helpful girl from his class and she was able to help him get where he needs to be.  I think once we get that figured out we can at least start the day on a good foot.

So, everyone had their own little hiccups on the first day.  Which is understandable.  We can just hope and try for fewer hiccups each day going forward.

Okay, 2 text heavy posts in 2 days is a little much!  So here's an image from pinterest.

Source: piccsy.com via Shannon on Pinterest

 

Right?

new school

This morning I took the kids in for their first day of school.  THAT was a whirlwind.  All the information on schedules, classrooms, teachers, pick-up, etc . . . I'm feeling a bit lost.  Going from a close-knit school of 200 housed in a charming old red schoolhouse in the country . . . .  to a "city" school of 950 where Conner has 5 teachers and there are over 70 rooms.

Anna has been really nervous the last 2 days.  Missing her friends.  Worried that she isn't going to know the routines and will make a mistake.  When it was almost time to go this morning she started feeling sick to her stomach and said she didn't want to go.  I cuddled her for a bit and distracted her with the camera on my iphone.  On our tour of the school, hers was the first classroom we went to.  As soon as we walked in her face lit up.  She met her teacher with a smile.  And I was able to say good-bye feeling like she was feeling good.  Later, on my way out of the school one of the ladies in the office asked if I was the one with the new girl in kindergarten.  "Oh she is just so sweet!"  Knowing Anna, I am sure she has warmed up to everyone just fine and is telling her silly jokes and stories already!

Leading up to today Payton has shown no sign of nerves or apprehension.  He's been very easy going about it all.  And the same was true today.  We saw his classroom, found his desk (which already had his name on it), and then went outside to the huge play yard to find where his class lines up in the morning.  He was all smiles when the staff member introduced him to the girls who were already in line.  The girls smiled back.  I said good-bye and looked back a few times, he was still smiling.  The last couple days he has been commenting with a laugh, "I bet when I walk into the class everyone is going to turn and look at me!"  As in, how cool will that be?!  He is such a funny, happy boy.

I think Conner also had some nerves going into today.  We've been trying to coach him on how to make a good first impression.  His plan was to tell everyone about Bionic Booger Boy, and demonstrate one of his bendy joint tricks (like, his foot behind his head) to the whole class on the first day.  We suggested rather, that he just try to be nice and friendly today, and share all those special parts of his personality in small doses over time.  :)  Don't overwhelm them in the beginning.

By far, he will have the most adjusting to do.  As he has spent the most time in a school, routine, and teaching method that he is used to.  And now he will be faced with subjects that weren't as prominent in his previous curriculum.  He has 5 teachers: math, reading, writing, social studies, science and then they rotate through specials (music, p.e., etc.).  This morning I dropped him off in Humanities class.  Humanities!  The sweet old lady who teaches the class shook my hand and in her gentle voice said, "In here we try to learn how we can all be more human."

There was a natural divide in the classroom with girls on one side and boys on the other.  (Which I'm sure is odd to Conner because the boys and girls in his old class mixed and conversed and played together pretty easily -- they were all great friends).  The only available seat was in the "girls sections".  He was whisked to his seat in the middle of the classroom before I could give one last pep talk or a hug good-bye.  I stood in the doorway and he looked back at me -- I could see the nerves and the "lost" look in his eyes.  I didn't want to make a scene in front of his new classmates or disrupt class which was already underway.  So I walked up to him, put my hand on his shoulder, and whispered, "do you have any more questions?".  His answer was no.  "I love you, have a great day."

Next comes the part where I walk back to my car with tears in my eyes, praying hard that they can make it through the day.  That they will just breathe and listen as all this new information is coming at them - we will learn the routines in time.  Hoping they will find a friendly face.  

Ohhh, this is hard.  Scott and I have never changed schools before so we don't have any tips from personal experience to share with them.

What we do have, is the priesthood in our home.  Last night Scott gave all the kids a father's blessing.  Each message of counsel and advice was perfect for each child.  I'm so glad that we were able to do this.  To let the kids know that we love them.  And especially to let them know that their Heavenly Father is mindful of them, their worries and concerns, and He is there to strengthen them, love them, and help them through this transition.  If this is all we can give them, then I think we're doing okay.

The Oreo Cakesters in their lunch might help a little too.

I know it will be a great school.  I know this will be a good experience.  I know the kids will get up to speed with their classes and just blossom.  I know they will find friends.  There is just going to be an adjustment period.  And we'll ride that wave together.

a fried egg and growing up

Every morning, and I do mean every morning, Conner makes scrambled eggs for breakfast.  He's been doing this for almost a year, I believe.  He loves it and he's pretty proud of himself and his cooking abilities (he also makes a pretty mean grilled cheese sandwich).  Quite often Payton or Anna will ask him for eggs and he's always happy to make a bigger batch and share.  

On Sunday he attempted a fried egg (the photo above) and he nailed it.  For the first time ever.  He was stoked.

Lately, I look at him in his skinny 11 year old body and listen to the things he says and I watch the way he acts and I realize how much he is growing up.  And on the verge of growing up even more.  I feel like any day I'm going to wake up or blink and he'll be a young man with a thicker body, defined facial features, and a deeper voice.  So every once in a while I find myself looking at him very intently, measuring, inspecting . . . making sure those child-like features haven't faded before I could take notice.  

Just craziness.

But it's all good.  I am really enjoying watching him grow up and experiencing the new levels of interaction and communication that maturity bring.  

A few "he's growing up" moments this week:

- Hearing him recite "The Tide Rises, The Tide Falls" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow - a poem that he memorized for school.

- In the car today . . . the kids were excited about report cards coming out soon and each of them were buzzing about the awesome grades they know they are going to receive.  I asked them "So kids, why do you think you are all so smart?"  Conner responded, "Well, because . . . we were born from smart parents."  Good answer.

- He figured out how to do the leg-behind-your-head-trick which his dad perfected in his jr. high or high school days (inside family thing -- too hard to explain here).  Conner was thrilled when he realized he could do it.  Like, running down the stairs, "this is amazing!", kind of excited.  We took a picture on the spot and texted it to Scott.

- He wants me to teach him how to cook more things so he can baby-sit for longer periods of time, like over dinner time.  Not quite yet, but all in good time.

apple pie, house news, and thanksgiving

Wednesday afternoon, while rolling out the crust for my apple pie we got the news . . . 

. . . the offer we made on a house has been accepted!

Now, we're in another waiting game while it goes through bank approval.  (The home is a short sale, just like everything else in Vegas).

But.  We've made it this far in the process, which is a milestone in and of itself.  The house is great.  Great schools, ward, neighborhood, and an amazing 7 minute commute to work for Scott.

Conner's birthday fell on Thanksgiving this year.  He is 11 years old.  11!  Wow.  I plan to do a post about this boy later, but for now here's a picture of him with his birthday loot.  He was a pretty happy boy.

The boys played at the Turkey Bowl in the morning.  

I was so sad that I missed the game!  After spending the morning making a double batch of crescent rolls I pulled into the parking lot just as everyone was getting into their vehicles to go.  :(  But at least I got a photo.  Conner was stoked - he got 3 touchdowns and 1 sack.

We all wrote down what we are thankful for.

The turkey was beautiful.  And delicious.

The kids played with Conner's new toys, we took a nap, and later joined friends for pie.

It was a good day.

Even though we are in an interesting & transitional stage right now and certain aspects of our family life are upside down . . . we have much to be thankful for.

. . . family, good health, a safe & warm home, the gospel, a job that provides for us, friends . . . .

and Payton would add - video games, egg nog, and apple cider.

We hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

happy day

Today you get to be a part of my Sunday therapy.  :)

This whole moving / trying-to-find-a-house has been wearing.  There's anxiety over the prospect of starting some place new, and wondering if we'll even find a house, and basically just hanging in limbo.  There is frustration over the housing market being the way that it is . . . both on the buying and the selling end.  And there's that tinge of loneliness (although Facetime helps) that creeps in from time to time.

I've realized recently that way too many of my thoughts are consumed with "me".  Too many of my conversations revolve around my issues.  And I don't like that!  I've often heard it said that the best way to get through your struggles is to forget yourself and serve others . . . to turn your focus outward.

Last Sunday Conner was assigned to give a talk in Primary.  I gave him several suggestions for topics (pulled from his Faith in God booklet - a list of goals for 8-11 year old boys & girls) and told him to choose one and write a talk about it.  Saturday afternoon I picked up his notes to see how he was coming along.  It brought me to tears to read what he had come up with all on his own.  (Partly because of the subject matter and partly the fact that my boy is growing & is able to express and share mature thoughts and feelings.  He can write about more than Bionic Booger Boy!)

     

Conner's talk was the trigger to help me begin thinking about changing.

Also this blog post

And this idea I found via pinterest  -- 35 RAKs on her 35th birthday

As well as this one -- 38 RAKs on her 38th birthday

And finally this . . . The Happy Day Project (details here and here)

Now, is it simply coincidence that I found and was drawn to each of these posts in just the last week?  I think not.  I didn't go searching any of them out (I didn't google "RAK" or "service"), they just happened to spill out in my daily internet usage.  I'm trying to pay attention more and act when I see patterns emerge.

I'm especially intrigued by and ready to participate with the Happy Day project

It begins tomorrow, and they are suggesting a daily RAK (with various ideas on how to fulfill it) and offering a cute printable to make it easy.  And cute.

I think this will be great!   

The quote below reminds me that we are the Lord's hands upon the earth and that he uses us to answer other's prayers.

"We are surrounded by those in need of our attention, our encouragement, our support, our comfort, our kindness . . . . We are the Lord's hands here upon the earth, with the mandate to serve and to lift His children.  He is dependent upon each of us."   Thomas S. Monson

Let's see how much happy we can create this week.

a look at soccer season

 Soccer season is more than halfway over.  The boys have 4 more weeks.  Anna has 3.

Back in May when I left the highschool following soccer sign-ups I asked myself, "what the heck am I thinking?!"  Three kids in soccer means 3 games every Saturday and 6 practices every week in different locations.  And I knew Scott would miss half the games which meant the handling of all the uniforms, shin guards, cleats, water bottles, chairs, umbrellas, cold, rain, and mud would rest solely on me.

So I tried to lower everyone's expectations for the season . . . I helped the kids understand that they might have to take turns missing a game because I can't be 3 places at once, and decided overall that we would be content doing what we could do.

But I have been pleasantly surprised at how smoothly things have gone.  When I received all 3 game schedules and mapped it out I found that through the entire 9 week season we only had 2 little hiccups.  It has worked out to be doable.  A little hectic, but doable.  I breathed a happy sigh when I realized it would work out . . . I consider that a tender mercy.  And the weather has treated us well (knock on wood) so far.  We've only had to bring out our umbrellas once at game-time.  Another blessing.  

This is Anna's first year playing soccer.  Since age 1 she has spent every September and October on a soccer field watching her brothers practice and play games.  During the games she would occupy herself by kicking around a ball.  For a long time we have known that she would love playing this game.  

She is so much fun to watch on the field.  First of all, she always has a huge smile on her face and she is always laughing and giggling.  Just so entertaining.  No melt-down, tired, grumpy, or frustrated moments on the field whatsoever.  She is pure soccer joy!  She also does a great job of running hard, keeping up with the ball, and I think she has scored a goal at nearly every game so far.

Payton - year number 4

In past years Payton could easily be voted as the soccer player who is "mostly likely to chase butterflies on the field."  He moves a little bit slower, and doesn't have a whole lot of competitive drive when it comes to sports.  Which is fine.  I'm the same way.  He often spends more time entertaining his teammates and getting them to laugh with his silly antics, rather than focusing on the game.  But this year we have seen a little more energy and intensity emerge.  

He started the season with a bang when at his first game he scored 2 goals!!  Scott and I were so so proud, excited, and happy for him.  Cheering, whooting, and clapping . . . it even brought tears to my eyes.  Especially after all these years of encouragement, coaching, and practice . . . to see him succeed and his face light up like that was just priceless. We were both a bit choked up, witnessing our little P find a piece of success.  And it was on my birthday!  I couldn't have asked for a better birthday present.  

He has done a good job this season of knowing and playing his position, being a team player, and anticipating where the ball is going to be and getting there.

 

Conner - year number 6

Conner loves loves loves soccer.  Loves it.  And on several occasions has shared with me his aspirations of playing soccer for BYU.  He also wants to be a professional football player for the Oakland Raiders.  And be an engineer.  And a chemist.  And . . . .

Wanting to give him a reality check without totally dashing his dreams, tonight I told him about intramural sports at BYU and how fun it is to gather a group of friends and roommates to form your own team.  Then you can just play for fun and have a good time and not worry about all the time and work that it takes to be on BYU's official soccer team.  He really liked that idea, so I may have (sneakily) won him over.  :)  That's what moms do, right?  Carefully plant ideas/options so that the kids eventually think that it was their own idea and everyone is happy.

Anyways, back to Conner in soccer . . . . he has a lot of fun with his team.  They really get along and have a fun time playing together.  They have just had a really tough season so far.  1 - 3.  Two of those losses came from a top-notch team that plays year round and you can tell they've been playing together for a few years.  Conner's team has been playing together since late August. 

But they've had a good attitude and try their best.  Conner is doing a good job this year of being a little more aggressive, getting in position, working with his team, and pushing himself.  We have been very proud of his effort at every game.

I typically bring my camera to just one game each season and I was so happy that the game I happened to photograph was a winner.  His team was all smiles coming off the field at the end of the game.  The parents were too.

And here are my 3 soccer players all together:

Pretty cute bunch, eh?  And Payton's epic head of hair . . . don't worry, I took care of it last sunday.  He looks a lot less werewolf-ish.

first day of school - 2011

Okay, I couldn't wait until the end of the day to post these pictures.  They are way too cute to keep to myself any longer!

First we have Anna, starting Kindergarten!

What a cute girl!  And I really don't think I'm biased just because she's mine.  :)  We started taking pictures and then she said, "wait, how about I go like this" and then pointed her toe forward.  I never knew that ballet training would come in handy for back to school photos.

Then, Mr. P who is entering 3rd grade.  I think he grew up quite a bit over the summer.

The bonus of starting school 30 minutes earlier this year was that the blaring morning sun hadn't hit our front porch yet.  Every year we struggle with back to school pics because of the sun in the eyes.  Although, Payton was the last of the crew to get his picture taken so the sun was teasing us as it crept up behind the tree branches.  Hence the orange glow on his face.  No, there were no spray tans before the start of school.

And finally, Conner is a big 5th grader this year.  How and when did he grow up so fast!

Conner is in such a good place.  10 years old.  Helpful.  Great at initiating and carrying on conversations.  Funny.  Confident.  Thoughtful.  Just a good boy.  I think he is going to have a great year.

And now for some jumping pictures . . . . 

Payton is super excited for school.

And he's about to launch . . . . 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, we have lift-off!

It is pretty fun to have all my kids at the same school this year.

I look at these pictures and they make me especially happy.  To see their relationship -- they laugh, joke, pick at, and love each other.  (Well, most of the time).  In the father's blessings that Scott gave the kids on Sunday he touched on this sibling relationship and encouraged them to strengthen it and to be each other's best friends.  With the upcoming move and all the changes it will bring, if they will look out for and help one another, and be each others' friend then it will be okay.  I really feel that more and more.  Our little family unit and the relationships in it, are really all that matters.

Have a great first day, kids.  I love you!

spirit week at the pool

The second week of swimming lessons also happened to coincide with Spirit Week at the pool.  Usually there's a silly theme each day and the lifeguards will dress up.  But when Conner's teacher told him that he would get extra jumps at the end of the lesson if he came dressed for Pirate Day on wednesday . . . oh boy, it unleashed an enthusiasm for spirit week that I'm sure the staff has never seen before.

Wednesday: Pirate Day

Friday: Crazy Hair Day / 80's

But Thursday takes the cake . . . . Super Hero Day

Let me introduce you to Flower Power - 

And the man of steel, Superman -- 

Finally, the one and only Bionic Booger Boy -- 

Bionic Booger Boy was created this last year when Conner began drawing comics.  All of his stories feature this green super hero, fighting his nemesis Mr. Clean.  I love his creativity & imagination, but after a while I have to put the "lava boogers" talk to rest.

Conner came up with the design and materials for his costume and I helped him put it together.  An old day camp t-shirt became a cape and mask.  An undershirt + fabric markers and he was all set.  Oh my goodness, he was absolutely giddy.  He wore the costume all day for 2 days.  It was pretty fun to see his excitement over this character coming to life.

Who knew that swimming lessons would be such an adventure?

summer fun #26: swimming lessons

it's official.  Our children are fish.  

The kids did awesome in their swimming lessons this year.  Both Conner and Payton moved up a level.  And Anna is doing great with her beginner arm strokes and back floats.

Here are some photos from the last day of swimming lessons:

Payton -- So proud of this kid.  He worked really hard in swimming lessons to improve his arm strokes and floats.  He set a goal for himself to take the swim test on the last day of summer.  At our city pool you have to pass a swim test (one lap arm stroke, one lap elementary backstroke across the width of the pool -- no stopping, no touching the bottom) in order to swim in the big lap pool.  This big pool also holds the brand new giant, twisty water slide which he has watched Conner enjoy all summer.  So after swimming lessons on friday, we went back to the pool in the afternoon for one last swim.  Payton headed straight to the swim test line and was raring to go.  Conner and I watched with baited breath . . . excited/nervous for him.  But mostly so proud that he made the decision to do this all on his own.

Oh, and during the test you can't wear goggles.  Which is huge for Payton.  Remember how sensitive his eyes are to the sun?  Same goes for the water.  

He closed his eyes tight, took a deep breath and pushed off from the edge.  Stroke, stroke, stroke, breath . . stroke, stroke, stroke, breath . . . and pretty soon he had reached the end!  Then he put his skills to use and did his very best elementary backstroke, even bumping into and re-routing around kids who got in his way, and finally made it to the finish by the lifeguard chair.  Woo-hoo Payton!  He actually made it without stopping on his very first try.

But . . . as I suspected (and what was the best decision for everyone) the lifeguard didn't pass him.  He made it back and forth, but he still needs to work on becoming a stronger swimmer.  His little body was exhausted at the end of that test, and I know that I would not feel comfortable sending him into the big pool.  

Conner and I congratulated him on a great job and tried to lift his spirits with lots of encouragement.  A little disappointed and a lot tired, he spent the rest of his time swimming in the small pool and had a great time.  I think it was great for him to see that he could do it, but also to realize that it takes some work to build up the stamina to safely swim in deeper waters.

Like I said, I was so so proud of him that he set a goal and with drive & desire he did his very best to follow through.  Super champ!

 

Anna - As I've mentioned before, this girl's biggest achievement this summer was ditching the water wings.  She doesn't have free reign in the pool, but when we are there she spends half of her time underwater diving for rings, watching her brothers do silly tricks, and swimming like a mermaid.  

 

Conner - Last summer Conner was in the level 4 class.  When we went to sign up this summer they told us that they have changed the numbering of the classes and a 4 was now a 3 1/2.  Conner was not happy.  He was really proud of his level 4 rank and had worked really hard to earn that.  For this over-achieving boy, being bumped down to 3 1/2 was a major bummer.

But . . . it was all good.  He had a fantastic teacher -- Rachel, one of our favorite young women from church (we have quite a few favorites).  She helped fine-tune his strokes to where they are strong, smooth, and precise.  It is so much fun to watch him glide through the water.

This session he finally figured out the diving thing, from a standing position.  And he has got all the strokes down.  It is high on my list to track down a swim team or club when we get to Vegas and sign him up.  He is a swimmer.

Oh, and he easily passed all the requirements to re-enter level 4.  :)

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I've said this on facebook and I'll say it again . . . . it makes this California girl (and former swim team member) so happy to see my kids love and thrive in the water.

everybody's looking forward to the summer, summer

The last few weeks that infamous song, Friday, has been the soundtrack for our car rides to school on friday mornings.  (We really like the Glee Cast version.)  

Yesterday we just had to change the words, "everybody's looking forward to the summer, summer."

It was a "no uniform day" so Payton chose to wear his ketchup shirt.  Conner started the day in pajamas.  The whole class wore pj's while they watched a movie in the morning and then changed into play clothes for field day activities.  Anna and I went to the school and watched the activities for a while.  Payton and his partner rocked at the water balloon toss.  And the play structure race was right up his alley -- he was so pumped to show me his record speed across the monkey bars.

"sittin' in the front seat, sittin' in the back seat, gotta make my mind up which seat will I take"

sorry, listening to Friday right now and the lyrics are just so . . . . 

Anyways, here's the boys at pickup . . . Conner's teacher unloaded some of her posters and classroom supplies on the kids.  This is what he picked.

He says that she would take it off the wall sometimes and hold it in front of her face.  Have I ever mentioned how awesome Conner's teacher has been this year?  She and Conner had a great relationship.  I made a fill in the blank card for the boys to complete for their teachers.  3 Things I Learned This Year . . . one of Conner's read: "that you like to taunt us by eating licorice."  On his card he illustrated this scene.  Along with the scene of the two of them boxing during their field trip to Inflatable Kingdom.

As we approached our house Conner asked, "mom did you put up the tape this year?"

I don't forget.  :)

Then, to make a full day just a little more full . . . Anna had her ballet recital!

They performed Cinderella and Anna was a Winter Fairy.  The fairies from each season gave Cinderella a piece of her clothing for the ball (gown, slippers, etc.) and Anna's group gave her the crown.  For weeks she was so excited, telling me that they get to hold a real crown.  And Cinderella is going to ride in a real pumpkin carriage.  And there's going to be a prince.  And . . . .

Basically, every little girl's dream.

  {here they are passing the crown down the line . . . Anna is the first one facing us}

 {final pose, kneeling on the right}

 {the whole group}

Anna did a fabulous job!  I was so proud of her.  This was her second year in ballet.  Last year, the girls mostly wandered around the stage, watching their teacher behind the curtain very closely, and displaying a few moves that kinda looked like ballet.  This year she knew her routine, there was no confusion, and she executed it wonderfully.  I couldn't help but say "good job!" out-loud at the end of her dance.  And she loved her little bouquet of roses.  Earlier in the day I purchased them while she was with me, saying that they were for a friend.  On the drive home last night she commented, "You said you got these for a friend.  But they're for me.  So I'm your friend?"  

Of course!!

embrace the camera: may 26th

Last night Conner was awarded his Webelos badge.  And I got pinned.  As Conner approached with the mother's pin he said, "brace yourself."

I just love this funny kid.

And can I just say that I am digging this Cub Scout gig.  I'm officially one year into it.  (Although it feels longer since I've been involved on the committee since Conner started 2 1/2 years ago).  Sure, some weeks (a lot of weeks) my 12 boys are crazy with energy and I feel like I'm herding cats and when I come home I just collapse on the couch.  But I am enjoying the topics & skills we cover, the little projects (and doing things the "boy" way), games, skits, songs, and their genuine interest and eagerness to participate.

It works for me.

all your heart, might, mind, and strength

In honor of my brother Mason who is completing his mission today (!) . . . . I thought I would share a talk that Conner gave in Primary this Sunday.  This is the one that I had him write a few weeks ago while we were watching general conference.  He wrote this completely on his own -- his own thoughts, words, ideas.  (I only added the first two sentences once he finished it, to create an introduction.)  

Earlier this month my family and I listened to the leaders of our church speak in general conference.  Our prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, spoke about contributing to the missionary fund and the importance of temples.  

For many years, missionaries have traveled the world and brought people to the gospel.  Even some girls have volunteered.  Once at my grandma's house, my grandma gave hospitality to two girl missionaries.  They volunteered their time even when they didn't need to.

The prophet announced in general conference that there was going to be a new temple in Idaho and Colorado!  The Church of Jesus Christ spreads every day.  I think that we should follow the example the missionaries have set for us in determination to bring the whole world to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In Doctrine & Covenants 4:2 it reads -- Therefore O ye that embark in the service of God see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind, and strength that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day.

I'm thankful for missionaries and the work that they do to spread the gospel.  I want to bear my testimony that I know this church is true.  In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

I think that he was pretty proud of himself as well.  Afterwards he asked me if this is the kind of talk an adult would give.  "Yep.  Maybe just a little longer, but you've got the right idea."

And Mason, we'll see you in a few days.  Get ready for some big hugs!