First day/first week

Luke, Anna and Heidi started school on Wednesday with a full day

Heidi wasn't nervous, mostly excited

Anna rocks her new hair-do, also excited about starting school

Luke was nervous, mostly about math

acting like a tough guy

it was a rainy start to Emily's first day on Thursday

all 4 in the school we love

Whew, we made it through the first few days back to school.  Actually everyone adapted quickly, I am the one who is pooped (I also began with my nephew this week, so we have all been up earlier than our summer schedule).  So school officially started Wednesday and the kids had a good first day.  All like their teachers so far, though each one said, "teachers talk a lot".  Heidi has had homework already, not a huge surprise, as I think her teacher has a reputation for preparing kids for middle school.  Luke found out he might like math this year.  And Anna is with a group of troublesome boys, but is meeting some new friends. 

And to Emily: she had been very indifferent about kindergarten starting, shrugging her shoulders when asked about it.  She was most nervous about making new friends.  She did cry for a moment when it was time to go, but her first day went well.  Thankfully, she is full of details for me and her teacher called last night to confirm that everything went smoothly.  We sent a letter home to parents explaining Emily's medical stuff and the teacher briefly discussed with the class the need to be gentle around Emily.  I have heard good feedback from both parents and teachers on our communication efforts, and so far no nasty remarks.  Emily was thrilled to see Heidi after gym class and once everyone was home she became interested in comparing details of their day (same gym teacher, whether the principal came in, etc.).  Today she came home much more excited, as she asked a girl to be friends and she has homework.  Next week is a full week and then we have Labor Day off.  The girls have opted not to do Girl Scouts, though Emily is eager to join if a troop starts for her age.  Awanas starts in September, and I am helping lead a Bible study group again this fall.  I have also been asked to speak one Wednesday night at Bible study, though at this point I have no idea on what (we are doing Idol Lies by Dee Brestin, and I am not at all familiar with it).  And just a few more weeks and we will be welcoming our new nephew or niece/cousin, which we are all excited for.  Happy weekend, we are still having summer weather here!    

Pictures from Emily's birthday

Emily made Rainbow Dash at Build-a-Bear Workshop

next post will show Emily's new glasses

blue frosting, one of the few things Emily likes to eat

Everyone enjoyed their own colored cupcake, oddly enough Luke's was green and he hardly had any on his face, not sure how that happened

 

 

Well, Anna, Heidi and Luke are off on their first day of school (pics coming another day).  Anna was excited about her teacher, but her closest friend is in Heidi's class.  Heidi has a good group of girls in her class, but she wasn't thrilled with the teacher.  And Luke got the teacher he wanted and his best buddy is in class with him.  Emily is not looking forward to her first day tomorrow, so we will see how drop off goes : / .  Routine here we come!

Happy 6th Birthday Emily!

I think all these pictures have been posted on the blog before, but I love Emily's smile in them, so I will share again.  Today we celebrate Emily!  When I was thinking of how to describe her, I kept thinking of the color hot pink, like a neon pink.  Emily is bright, loud, kinda crazy, and as I have said before, oozing with life.  Emily has big emotions, and she loves with all she has.  We have a full day planned, with another trip to Build-a-Bear workshop, McDonalds, and watching the movie Planes.  More pictures to follow soon!

Water just might be summer's best friend

We put the slide on top of the slip 'n slide, add soap and the hose and voila, waterslide fun

The girls tried to use their mouths as fountains

And finally, being goofy for the camera makes for fun photos

This is our last full week of summer and our week should be pretty busy!  We will meet with the nurse and kindergarten teacher to finalize plans for Emily.  Emily has a check-up and a "new student" luncheon/supply drop-off.  All the kids will find out their teachers.  We have to finish school supply shopping and get Luke new glasses (Emily's are already ordered).  Anna is eagerly waiting to hear from insurance to see if they will cover three sessions of laser treatment for her birthmark (if she is not pleased with the results after 3 rounds she can opt for surgery).  My favorite, the all-night flea market is on Saturday.  And of course we have a birthday to celebrate!