Another first

Today was Ani's first day of 3rd grade. She was very reserved this morning. I was surprized. We drove to the new house then walked to school. She has to wait in line outside the classroom until the bell but she chose to stand with Cody and I until time to go in. I was glad to hang onto her a few moments more! When it came time to go she was hesitant but went on in by herself. When I came to get her, she ran out and gave me the longest, intense hug (as if to reassure herself she was safe in my arms again). It was precious and my goal in life is to earn a hug like that from each of them every day! A lot of news/firsts right now for both of my precious babies! Codyman, as he calls himself these days, is potty training. Doing pretty well most days. Even pooped for the first time last Wednesday, aug 15. So proud of both of my babies!

On the road

We are on the road again, well almost. Ani is on the road and had finally learned to ride her bike. I'm so excited for her and this new freedom. It will come with bumps and bruises but well worth it. I know as a parent that I should teach Cody before he is eight. As for the rest of us, the move is becoming so real for us as we enter the last week in VA. I'm am thankful for the peace that God has given me! As long as I stay focused, my burden is not my own.

Second one down

So second grade is done! It was a sad day for Ani, therefore it was a sad day for me. She didn't want to say good bye to her teacher, Mrs. Monceaux. We have been blessed with wonderful, caring teachers for her thus far. I'm greatful for those with a gift to teach. Not just to teach but to inspire, love, encourage and challenge! My sweet girl has grown so much and is embracing this new chapter of our lives. Our days will not all be easy as move from the familiarity of our Virginia home to the vast Denver horizon. However, we will be together and I am a better person for having these beautiful little people in my life. I hope one day they can say the same about me.

Ch ch ch changes

Changes come big and small, fast and slow, happy and sad. I think we have all of them rolled into the last month. First today. My little boy is growing so fast I cannot catch my breath to even say slow down. Today he went pee in the potty, twice! He loves candy and sweets so I think I will have to find a healthy sweet treat to keep him motivated. As for my sweet pea, she finishes second grade tomorrow. She is so sweet and so mature. I just can't stand the thoughts of third grade. She lost another tooth yesterday and got a silver crown from the dentist. She has been identified as gifted in reading and math. I always knew she was special and now the schools will know it too! I know I push her so hard, as I want her to be great and get those things she wants in life. For now, I hold them in my arms, we do tye dye, make cookies, and sing silly songs off key as drive from place to place. It has it's moments of frustration, but I wouldn't change a thing! I love these guys! Pictures tomorrow!

All gone

I know someday my son will not appreciate this entry. As we are driving home from taking Ani to school, I hear him say "Mommy, I ate my nose all gone." I said what? And he repeat again the same sentence. I asked "are you talking about boogers?" and he responds "yes mommy."

Gross and funny! How do I break this?

It's spring

It's spring, although it has felt like spring all winter. I am letting Cody go outside and play with Ani in the back yard. He loves it and she can play her reindeer games with someone new this year. So today, he was playing outside and when he came in, he handed me a petal from the magnolia tree next door and said "mom, I bring you a flower." My heart melted as he stood their grinning. I gave him a big hug and he quickly hurried back outside. In a few minutes, he returned with another petal and shortly after, another. He was so proud and I saw a sweet little man growing up too soon.

I am so thankful for this time with my kids and pray I can treasure these moments!

Eight is enough

My sweet, funny, energetic, creative little girl is 8 years old today. I hope she knows that as much as I push her with responsibility and duty, I really wish she would stay little longer. I'm fascinated with what she knows and how she thinks. I don't always understand the stories or jokes she tells. I just hope deep down she knows that I love her and I'm not too busy raising her to hug her everyday! She is such an awesome kid. I need to do a better job of telling her that.

So cheers to the kid, the love of my life, my sweet baby Ani. I love you and happy 8th birthday.