2nd Grade Here She Comes

Seriously, how did Morgan become seven years old and starting 2nd grade?  I still remember rocking her and being able to cup her teeny bottom in my hand.  Now it takes all my might to carry this little lady to bed after she has fallen asleep on the couch!

If you know many 7 year olds, you know they are very much into peace signs.  It could be a peace sign painted on a rock and the rock suddenly became cool.  Here she is posing giving us the peace sign.

This backpack was such a big deal this year.  This was pretty much the only thing she asked for to start off the school year.  That's right, she didn't want new clothes, shoes or school supplies, just this cool messenger bag. 

I love all the school pictures taken by the front door.  I wonder who started that and why?  If they are like me it's probably as you're racing out the door and you think "Oh crud! Wait a minute! I need to take your picture.  Stay there!"  I at least had the camera on the kitchen counter charged and ready for the morning.

The sideways peace sign means "2nd grade, mom." 

This is the third year I walked into a classroom to meet the teacher that is going to spend six hours a day with my daughter.  I have never known what teacher she will have.  What are their mannerisms?  How will Morgan respond to them? What kind of impact will they make on her life?  This year I thought I was being strong when I walked into meet her teacher.  I immediately fell in love and my voice was shaky and I became a little teary-eyed.  This is going to be a GOOD year - I can feel it!

4th of July Parade

We really enjoy the 4th of July parade in Tumwater. We're aren't always able to go because our camping trips are usually scheduled around the same time. This year was an at home year so we were able to go! Morgan's school puts together a float for the parade and any student is invited to ride along. Morgan didn't even hesitate when I asked her if she wanted to join them.

Casey delivered Morgan to the designated float location and we quickly found a spot along the parade route. And patiently waited for the parade to start.

Our mamma came along this year.

Finally the EOE float made its appearance! The kids looked a little tired as they faded in and out of chants, but Morgan was thrilled when she spotted us in the crowd.

The parade was a success and she said even though she was a little bored, she wants to do it again next year.

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!

A Whole Lot of Sparkle

It's hard to believe it's been a year since her last dance performance.  Recital week is an exciting but busy week.  On one night we have pictures, another is rehearsal and finally.... the performance.  Each evening requires Morgan to be in full costume which includes her hair in a bun (which by the way, I am getting pretty good at).  Some of our friends have kids in two classes, which means double the work.  Something to keep in mind for the future.  While it is busy, and I often have a hard time keeping Morgan focused and on track, I do love the week. 

I didn't grow up in dance and back when I dreamt of having a child, dance lessons was the farthest thought from my mind.  However, seeing Morgan with her hair slicked back and wearing her costume makes me so proud of her.

I love some of these ballet pictures because she is smiling so big and yep, she's missing those two front teeth.

We were lucky to have one of Morgan's sweet friends come along with us for the performance. 

Our friend Allie also had her performance at the same time.  It was so great to see her performing Jazz.  We were so excited at the end of the performance to see Allie and Morgan walk out on stage together!  I know it made Morgan's day!  Allie is one of the lucky ones that got to come back the next day for another performance.

Unfortunately, during the performance we aren't allowed to take any pictures.  But we had the best seats for watching Morgan shine.  Afterwards, she got to visit with some of her fans outside.

The Grandmas...

The Grandpas....

The proud mom and dad...

Morgan is so in love with ballet.  I have no idea how far she'll want to do, but I know she loves every moment of lessons.  If you can't tell from the smile below she just sparkles!

I couldn't be more proud of this amazing ballerina.

Daddy's Princess

Ok, so this post is a little behind.  The time has really gotten away from me these past few weeks. 

Last month, Casey took Morgan to her very first father/daughter dance.

Morgan loves getting dressed up like a princess and tonight was certainly no exception.  We met one of her friends from school at the nail salon and we all got our nails done.  Next, we came home so we could do her hair.  She opted for a side pony with lots of curls.

Yes, considering the special occasion, I let her wear a little lipstick and blush.  She was a happy little girl.

She even wore a cute little corsage with ribbon that matched her dress!

Brooke wanted in on the action too, say "cheeeeeese!"

A few more pictures and they were on their way to dinner and the dance.

Morgan danced all night and came home on cloud 9.  Casey enjoyed his evening with his little princess and I have a feeling they'll be going again next year.

Itsy Bitsy Spider

How adorable is it when your little one is able to sing all the words to their favorite song?  I happen to think it's just precious!

Here's a quick video of Miss Brooke singing her favorite song.  As you will see, we end all of our songs with a "Yay!!!!"  

Hope you enjoy!

Happy Valentine's Day

Sending lots of love your way!

 

Happy Valentine's Day!

At My Feet

It was a stay at home day for me and my girls.  The girls were getting a little restless but it was too early for lunch and too late to head out anywhere so I decided it was a good time to make a quick batch of cupcakes.  I have found making cupcakes is quick entertainment for my girls.  There are very few ingredients (if you use the box kind) and both girls feel like they are part of the fun. 

However, this time Morgan very quickly decided she was bored with this activity and left me for greener pastures.  Brooke didn't mind a bit, that meant she didn't need to share the spatula!

And of course there is down time while the cupcakes are baking.  Yep, it's still snowing.

The junk drawer has recently been a magnet for these little hands.  Lots of good stuff in here!

The cupcakes are done!  Time for a taste test.

 

Delicious!!!