Perfecting drop-offs and pick-ups

Sometimes the best moments are in the everyday. The sunny afternoon when you pick up a stegosaurus. The perfect weather for smiling in a new dress. The excitement of a Friday that gives mom enough time to style a bun. The lazinesss of being an old dog who may not see so well but clearly enjoys the view.

Sleepover....Check

Turning eight brings big opportunities. Kyle had her first sleepover - made even more exciting because it was at a hotel. Three friends joined her for lots of swimming, hide-and-seek, plenty of snacks, and big breakfast.

As one commented, “I don’t want to go back to reality”.

EIGHT - Be Great!

Today, our Kyle turns 8.  At a recent appointment, someone asked Travis about his children, and he responded, "my daughter is perfect." Most people question when this is said, but in so many ways, it is completely true.

 

Kyle is everything you could wish to be in a person...and everything a parent desires.  She is responsible and loves to help out.  During a recent work trip for mom, she took on making lunches with a vengeance.  She looks out for others and brings home more Paw Prints than we can count.  She is a friend to everyone and from a teacher's perspective - a joy to have in class.  Parents comment on how polite and mature she is. Kyle loves to please others and is constantly looking for ways to achieve praise.  It is her reward! She is a rule follower to a near fault, struggling at times when others are not doing the same.  She wants to be the best and will push herself for that point, sometimes going before she is completely ready.  She is an avid student, focusing on homework even when others mention fun activities.  She is thriving and loving 2nd grade.  It has been a fantastic year surrounded by a great teacher, lots of learning, and amazing friends. As a parent you could not be prouder - it is a joy to watch and experience every day.

 

Loves this year include stuffed animals -- porgi was a constant companion to outings and trips.  He was a cuddle buddy and even trekked to school for a day.  In addition, stuffed octopus, blowfish and all other measures of animals were making an appearance, piled high on the bed, and joining adventures.  LOL dolls, barbies, LEGOS, anything squishy, and imaginative play was an escape.  Jack was nearly always welcome, though with a few instructions.  Puzzles were built - some as large as 500 pieces.  Pictures were drawn with elaborate works of art - taking home a District advancement.  Coloring was done with nearly every type of option from crayons to markers to glitter pens or colored pencils.  Softball still reigns supreme with great preparation for the next season.  Swimming has become easier, knocking out our first swim test and big plans to head to the deep end this year.  Reading nonfiction is the mainstay followed by telling others stories of King Tut and George Washington.  Each day at recess Kyle spins more flips on the bars than might be recommended, at times coming home with bruised arms only to do it again the next day.  A special trip with dad involved picking out a new bike that she rides constantly in the driveway.  Teeth were lost - often in pairs.  More foods were tried than ever before, although sliders still sits as a favorite. 

 

Kyle continues to be an amazing big sister, as delighted in Jack's accomplishments as we are.   They read books, watch movies, constantly play outside.  She thrives on family time - loving every moment with us or extended family.  A weekend spent in Iowa for Thanksgiving was nearly perfect with water park, cookies, bunk beds, and everyone together.  She loves swimming at Grandma's and eating frozen raspberries.  Camp days were summer highlights with plans this year for horses and more time at Camp Gilead.  Roller coasters brought new heights this year and only intensified her thrill factor. 

 

In so many ways, Kyle is perfection.  She loves praise and bringing happiness to those around her.  she is smart, probably more than she even realizes.  She strives for hard work and focuses on each task.  Accomplishment is the greatest reward.  She gives fearless hugs and lives with compassion.  She is also hesitant at times to step out of the comfort zone, but often thrives once she gets to that place.  She is loving, patient, and eager.  We are beyond blessed...and only know standing in front of us will one day be an amazing individual!

 

 

Slow Thaw

Snow still sits in random patches on the ground.  It seems everyone has delayed thawing out from the storm that was February.  There has been some fun.

We visited a bounce house to get some running in and learned air hockey is pretty great!

Daddy went shopping and brought home a new chainsaw.  This was a favorite at sharing!!

More puzzles were completed.  500 pieces done completely by these two.