First Day of School Pictures

I haven't posted pics from the FIRSTS this year.  Both of the boys were very ready and very excited to get to school. 

So, whaddya think of Mr. Cool?  Daniel started 2nd Grade with Mr. Alm for a teacher.  He's very excited.  We're a month into school now, and the joy is still there every morning.  He really loves to learn.  He's in class with a lot of his friends, so it was an easy first day, too.

Logan started Pre-School with Mrs. Melissa a week after Daniel started.  He seriously loves it, and his teacher.  He's convinced that Mrs. Melissa misses him on the days when he's not in school.  He started with his buddy Derrick, and we're really looking forward to field trips this year.

I am volunteering in the Take Home Reading program at Daniel's school again this year.  I go now while Logan is at his class.  I love being able to be in the school every week.   I love being home with these two, being able to drop them off and pick them up.  Being able to volunteer at school and help with homework after school.   I love watching Daniel develop a true love of reading and not just a love of books.  Logan is starting to read, and I love watching the wonder in his eyes when he recognizes a new word.  I am so thankful to Ryan, that he works so hard and affords our family the blessings of me being home.

The Sweetest 7 Year Old I Know

I am up late getting cupcakes finished for Daniel's birthday tomorrow.  The kitchen floor is vibrating with the snoring of my big furry friend who is keeping me company and won't go to bed until I do.  The rest of the house is in peaceful slumber, and I have had a lot of time to reflect on the past seven years.
See that sweet baby up there?  He's the greatest 7 year old in the world.  I know I am biased. But, God sent him straight to me.  He and his brother make our family complete, and I am not sure just how I am worthy of these two boys.
Daniel, sweet boy, I hope you understand what a special young son you are.  You are an adult wrapped up in that little body of yours.  Your spirit, your drive, your determination and sensitivity are so beyond your years.  I hope that those big dreams of yours come true. You are well rounded.  You are braver than I have ever been. You ride your bike and scooter incessantly, throw a frisbee like no one's business, master Super Mario Bros. and leave me in the dust, you sing and have dance moves that make me smile.  You have an imagination that amazes me, and your business plan for your first business this year makes me so proud.  You have mad skills on the computer that frighten (and sometimes cost) me, and you excel in school in ways that I hope stick with you through life.  You are a good friend and find something in common with those older and younger than you.  You are a great big brother and friend to Logan.  I hope you two always remember that the world may be cruel, but you will always have a brother.  I love that the last thing you need at night is a hug and a kiss from both Dad and I, and that this week I heard you tell Dad, "I just want to be just like you."  You have filled the past 7 years with joy, laughter, some frustrations and tears, happy memories and grateful, thankful prayers to Heavenly Father that He trusted me to be the mother to the most amazing son.
Seven years ago tonight, I knew but could never really comprehend how my life was going to change.  At 10:02 the next morning, I found out why I was here on this earth.  One look into those eyes, and I was forever changed.
 I am a work in progress, and I hope these boys are patient with me while I learn from them.  They are my teachers.  And now, I will check on those two again as Maggie follows me down the hall.  I can already see how Daniel's bright blue eyes will sparkle with excitement when he wakes up.  I am going to enjoy every moment of tomorrow right along with him.