Hello Summer!

School's out for the summer! We are getting into a rhythm with our summer adventuring and routine. My next post will be all about that. I know you're counting down the minutes until you get to hear more hiking stories. Spoiler alert-- we haven't had more pooping on the trail incidents. (Fingers crossed) For now, let's do a school recap.

Isabelle went to preschool at Magic Moments. It is honestly the best preschool I've seen. It was in a basement that was completely redone and made for a preschool. There was even a slide down the stairs and an epic playground. Isabelle had preschool on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:00-11:30. On Tuesdays, she stayed for dance until 12:15. Preschool cost $135 plus $35 for dance totaling $170 a month. It's official--Isabelle is left-handed like her dad and had her fair share of homework. 

We were heartbroken to hear that Miss Amy is not continuing her preschool. Miss Amy was extremely organized, loving, crafty, a talented photographer, and full of creative ideas. The Grinch came to visit, certain days were color days where students wore the color they were learning about, there were several themed parties, students exchanged gifts with buddies, etc. 

The culminating event was a party at Airborne. The kids sang an adorable song (Izzy had the moves down to a t), we watched a slideshow of pictures throughout the year, and we got Isabelle's amazing preschool book full of pictures and memories. We're in denial it's over. Izzy has some pals from preschool. She gets to attend a joint bday party for 2 of them and can hardly wait. Izzy seemed to develop a little crush... Jett. Another boy in her class "annoyed her" and Izzy rolled her eyes talking about him.

Last day of preschool: Tuesday, May 23, 2023

First day of preschool: Tuesday, September 6, 2022

All the other kids took pictures standing by Miss Amy. When it was Izzy's turn, she jumped into Ms Amy's arms. Peep Miss Lexie (an aide/helper) in the background.

Airborne! Cantrelle (Trelly) turned into one of Isabelle's best buds

Fortunately, another preschool nearby was recommended for next year. It is dirt cheap ($90 a month for 3 days a week which seems unreal) and we can even walk there. Isabelle's new preschool is also in someone's home. The kids are doing a few summer camps there. Isabelle will also start doing the Upstart reading program next school year. She is getting too big too fast. 

James has matured so much this year. He can read and every time he asks to read a book to me, I can't help but say yes! He is starting to read longer books too. He is more used to sitting still. I wondered if going to school would be a fight and it never was. He looked forward to school. In fact, he is thrilled he gets to be a Mustang until 6th grade. Next year will be a big adjustment with James going to school all day and him starting the Chinese immersion program. 

Last day of school: Thursday, June 1, 2023

First day of school: Friday, August 26, 2022

Field trip to the zoo

James did an animal report and he chose capybaras which are found in Brazil. Nana has sent many videos of these animals. James worked so hard on his report and got to present it to the class.

Field day

One of the many playdates with classmates.

My kinder graduate

James became friends with the crossing guard, Evelyn. We were both upset when Evelyn slipped and broke a bone during the brutal winter. It was a happy day when she returned to her usual crossing guard duties. We biked/scootered/walked to school sometimes which isn't necessarily a short trip. 1.1 miles one way. 4 other kids in our ward were in James' class which, made things fun. James became good friends with Walker and Calvin. He also gets along well with Eva and sees a future with Lily. For awhile, he liked 3 girls but he has narrowed it down.

I volunteered to help in James' class once a month and liked getting to know his classmates and seeing how things were run. James had the most loving teacher-- Mrs. Philbrick. After a shaky start, I wasn't so sure about her. But, she was phenomenal! She is made to be a kindergarten teacher and is extremely caring, communicative, and patient. James often came out after the bell holding her hand. James had kindergarten testing to end the year and it's no surprise that he is thriving and above grade level. Atta boy! We are continuing to work on his handwriting and have seen big improvements. 

As of today, my not so little 6 year old has his first loose tooth. This hit Andrew hard. Our kids aren't so small anymore. In fact, I tried to lift James so he could reach the monkey bars today and couldn't. (could be pregnancy) This stage is flying by. I'm looking forward to back-to-school shopping with my kids. It turns out they are too. They've already made some requests. I love my school-aged cuties.