And that's a wrap - 3rd grade done!

This year absolutely flew by. Everyone told us that third grade was a tough year and boy were they right.  I feel like both of you grew up so much this year and for the first time, had some real challenges in school. And some real challenges at home. You 9 year-olds are trying to find your own way and you are trying to find some independence. We are letting out the leash, slowly. 

We are proud of both of you this year but we have certainly learned a bit more about your desire to do well and how much work you're willing to put in (or not put in). Assuming that this is foreshadowing for the next eight years,  we now know we have our work cut out for us! 

I'm hoping that this summer things slow down and it doesn't go as fast as the last nine months have gone. We all need a break and I'm looking forward to a fun summer of checking off a great bucket list. 

Congrats on a great year and let's not rush the next nine weeks!

St Pats 2016

Since when did Leprechauns bring toys?

Valentines 2016

Lucky Mommy!

Loyalty

So, you’re on to something Cole. Today you talked about loyalty in school – I love when they teach these subjects. I still am not quite sure as an adult what loyalty looks like these days since it’s pretty hard to come by. But you’re off to a great start. 

Your friend Liam, he’s lucky to have your loyalty! And just so you know, I will ALWAYS be your #1 loyal fan – even on the days you hate me more than life itself. For now, you believe me and I’ll take it.  Someday, you may feel differently – but I sure hope deep down, you always know I have your back. Love you buddy.

Rite of Passage

Our first broken bone. Not a bad one – just a little buckle fracture of the wrist playing indoor soccer.  

You handled it like a champ – but make no mistake Cole, you are trying to milk it every which way to Sunday too. I don't blame you. After xrays and a cast, you have a new appreciation for our friend Adam, our military friend who lost his arm and legs in Afghanistan. Hero just took on a new meaning.

You’ll be as good as new in a few weeks.  You'll never forget the day you got your first cast.

First strings concert

Last night was your first strings concert!  You both are playing the Viola this year, much to Dad's and my surprise. You both did a beautiful job last night and we could not be more proud. It was a Christmas concert and we loved it.

I have to admit, playing an instrument was never high on my list and therefore, I don't really give is as much credit as it deserves.  I thought this might be a fleeting interest but you both seem to really enjoy it - and you've learned so much in the last few months about reading music and learning to play.  You never practice at home - which is why I didn't realize that you enjoyed it so much. But last night you were nothing but smiles and so full of excitement to perform.

While Dad contends that it's "good for your brain development", I just love that you are enjoying something that could be come a lifelong hobby for you. Even if you stop playing next year, or the year after, you've been exposed to music in a great way by your fabulous music teacher. She is a SAINT, by the way.

You both have declared that you want to continue playing for the rest of the year (something we have to make a decision on now), which is awesome.  And there is even talk of playing a different instrument next year - like the trumpet or trombone!  Great job boys - and it was a bonus seeing you so handsome in your fancy clothes!

Love you!

I Can

These were posted in the halls at school when I went to your parent conference today. Yes, you certainly can!

World Prematurity Day 2015

Thankful for miracles. 

Writing journal treasures - 3rd grade

Found these in your writing journal JD. I love every one of them so much. Love seeing life through your eyes. 

3rd Grade