First day of 1st grade

The morning of the first day of school started with a bit of a shock; it was cold outside!

We dropped Liz off at daycare and then Kate and I walked to school.

Kate was mildly annoyed that we were walking. I lost track of the number of times she asked why we couldn't drive.

I was able to walk her in to her classroom where we found her cubby and got her situated at her desk.

I gave her a hug and kiss and left.  Curiosity got the best of me when I was only a few steps out of the room.  I turned around to sneak a peek to be sure she was okay.  When I saw she wasn't crying I had to take a picture!

After two days of first grade, it seems like we are off to a good start. However, Kate is already lamenting the fact that she has homework every night whereas, in kindergarten it was just once a week.

liz's 3 year stats

 A couple weeks ago Liz had her 3 year check up.  Here are her stats:

weight: 29 lbs 6 oz - 39th percentile

height: 3' 2 1/4" - 78th percentile

BMI: 14.24 - 8th percentile

a video

how Liz spent her birthday

Liz had an eventful third birthday.

The day began with presents from Mommy, Daddy, and Kate.

We had pizza for lunch.

Then we went to the mall to ride the carousel.

The girls also rode in the kiddie rides.

Liz was not comforted by the lion in the passenger seat.

And, apparently, she doesn't enjoy Kate's driving either.

Our final stop at the mall was at the Cookie Company for cookies.  Liz chose an M&M cookie.

Finally, after nap and supper it was party time.  Kate was Liz's very attentive helper.

Liz managed to unwrap at least one present on her own.

Liz changed into her new Minnie Mouse costume before the girls posed by the farm animal cake.  Of course, she wanted  her new horses included in the picture too.

Then, she made a wish and blew out the candles.

3 years

 "And though she be but little, she is fierce."  

~Shakespeare

 "with brave wings she flies"

Dear Liz,

Today is your 3rd birthday!  I find myself overwhelmed and unable to put words to all the love I have for you.

You are a strong little pickle and have certainly begun to show your independence and opinions in the last year.

 You give the best hugs, wrapping your little arms around my neck and cradling your head on my shoulder.   

You are sweet and considerate.  I often see you rubbing your sister's back when she is upset.

You have a temper that does not flare up often, but when it does we all cover our ears.

Thank you for being the amazing, wonderful, mysterious you!  Each day with you is an adventure.

Happy birthday little Lizzie!

I'll love you always!

xoxoxo

kate's first day of kindergarten

Kate started kindergarten yesterday.  

I tried to take lots of pictures to capture the excitement as we prepared yesterday morning.

The minute we were out the front door, these two went into rolly polly mode. 

I decided to take Liz to daycare first, so just Kate and I could walk to school.  Also, Liz was having a hard time knowing she was going to be separated from Kate.  I am not sure I could have handled the parting of ways between the two of them if Liz had been at the school with us.  Liz was the most emotional one of all yesterday.  I forgot that Kate going to kindergarten would be a big change for little sister too.

As we walked, Kate told me she was most excited about art class and painting. 

Her lunch box might have been a bit heavy for her.

We arrived at school and waited outside for the bell to ring.

We went inside to the classroom and Kate found her cubby.

She happily sat down and waited patiently for circle time.

Circle time began with music and when the music started Kate's tears began. In an email to parents, the teacher told us to wait by the entrance during the song.  So, I held back and let the classroom helpers attend to Kate.

Overall, I think Kate did fantastic!  She cried a little when I picked her up, but the teacher assured me she was fine all day and only started up again when she saw me!

Congratulations, Kate, on finishing your first day of kindergarten!

the kids' table

Family came over this weekend to celebrate Aunt Kerry's birthday.  In a moment of brilliance I decide to set up the kids' table in the entry way, which was far away from the adults.  

They could play, giggle, and eat in their own space.  And, the adults could carry on conversations without constant interruptions.

I think they liked eating at the kids' table.  I know I liked the arrangement!

5 year stats

Kate's kindergarten physical was last week.  Here are her stats:

Weight: 33lbs 5oz - 10th percentile

Height: 3' 5 3/4" - 45th percentile

BMI: 13.51 - 5th percentile

Kate also got three shots at the appointment, which we were not prepared for.  Kate handled the first shot fairly well.  By the second poke, she was full on screaming.  The doctor ran back into the room to help us calm her down.  My ears are still ringing from the shrillness of her cries.

a video

Be sure to turn the volume up; she is very soft spoken.

Pretty impressive!

lip gloss

Kate got some Disney Princess lip gloss for Christmas.  She might be addicted; I catch her using it dozens of times a day.

Thankfully, she also shares with Liz.