Backpack

Emma often requests to wear a "bah-pah" just like the big kids when we take them to school. Last week she even tried to hang it up in the entryway of the preschool where the preschoolers hang their backpacks.

One of the gang

Emma looks up to Natalie and Max so much. Lately she has been practicing saying their names ("Na-na" and "Mah") every chance she gets, and the big kids just eat it up.

Sand for Days

We spent most of today at the park, and we have the sandy floors and tired kids to prove it!

Happy Birthdays Grandpa and Grandma!

Book Order

Our first books from Natalie's school book orders came in today!

Little Swathers

Lunch Buddies

We ate lunch at the school with Natalie today!

When the cat is away...

... the mouse will play.

Emma is adjusting just fine to life as queen of the castle while Max is at preschool.

Ice Cream Bandit

This started out as Chris' ice cream cone.

State Fair

The State Fair keeps getting more fun each year as the kids get older. Natalie's favorite parts of the fair were the carousel and the cotton candy, Max's favorites were the Ferris wheel and the cotton candy, and Emma's favorites were the bunnies (and probably the cotton candy).

Little Cheer Camp

Natalie went to Little Cheer Camp with the high school cheerleaders this morning. She wanted me to stay to watch, and I'm so glad I did. I couldn't help but smile while watching her because she was smiling so big and having so much fun. She performs this Friday at half time of the football game!

The Little Kids

I have never thought of Max and Emma as the "little kids" until now. It has always been the "big kids" and Emma. Max and Natalie have always been a duo. Breaking their duo up for most of the day was another thing that pulled on my heart as Natalie started school. It has actually gone really well though because they have been jumping right into playing really nicely together as soon as Natalie gets home. It is also giving Max and Emma a chance to play more closely. I'm excited to watch their relationship grow as the year goes on.

Full Day Kindergarten

We walked Natalie to her first full day of kindergarten in the rain this morning. She had a fun day, but she was definitely worn out once she got home. Late afternoon/early evening, when we're all home and together like the good ole days, has suddenly become my favorite time of the day.

Photo Dump

Hanging on to summer as much as we can

Robot construction

Early morning reading

 Olive Garden!