A Tree full of Monkeys

Some people belive that Elizabeth gets her climbing abilities from watching her sisters, I disagree! Last weekend we decided to hang a tire swing in our backyard. I went and bought a rope with Rachel and then I attempted to throw the rope up into the tree. I got a 10 ft ladder out to help get me closer to the branch I wanted- I didn't get it. Ann came out and climbed up the tree and moved the rope 3 feet further out on the limb. Thanks to her the girls were able to keep themselves entertained for several hours. It was well worth the time and the few scratches don't you think Ann?

First Day of School

She did it--with flying colors.

No hesitation.

Just excitement to finally be able to go to 'her school'.
Mike had her sign 'K' for kindergarten for her photos.







Mike woke early and made her breakfast.
She did her own hair and picked out her outfit.
Then I got home with the Hannah Montana Folder
and a rose and we headed to school.





Since we registered last week, we were able to meet Samantha's teacher.
She's in Mrs. Nutt's (like Candyland?) AM class.

As we were walking to her classroom, it was me who got turned around--
and to think, I was worried about

her being confused.









Samantha already knows two kids in her class,
and was excited to meet more.









She did it all with a mosquito bite on her eye--
We are proud of our big kindergartner.
We love you, Sam--You did great!

Where does the time go??

In a few short hours my oldest will start her first day of kindergarten. Landmark step, I know. And yes, I will be sappy, but it will be away from the child (someone has to be tough). I
can't help being excited to see just how well Samantha will do.
She is a great big sister, and for all her snotty-ness at times, she is able to sense when I really need her help and steps up readily.
A lot to expect from a five year old? Not my girl. She accept the challenge readily and does a great job.
I still can't believe that she will soon be able to ride that great big school bus all on her own.
I get the feeling that life is going to change, and there is no looking back.
We are entering the days of homework, soccer games, and constant changes in friends.
What do I want her to know?
That she is loved unconditionally--not only by her parents, but her Heavenly Parents and many others.
That she can excel--she has it within her power to achieve great things with hard work and dedication.
That the mean kids just need to be loved, too--and they are NOT right.
No matter what anyone says (your tired mother included), you are great!!
So good luck my little one!
Your parents will be anxiously waiting to hear how it went.
We love you, Sammy!