Back to School

The kiddos started school on Aug 11th. They were a little nervous, because they are attending a new school (because of the move). This school is probably half a mile from their old school, but has half the amount of kids (500 total). Their old school was way over crowded last year. Hailey only has 19 kids in her first grade class, and a very sweet teacher! There are only two fourth grade teachers, whereas there were five at the old school. I think it will be a good year, they have adjusted well. Hailey picked out her outfit.
Kaden... looking a little nervous.
First day... declared a success. Remember the "school bus" cake I made last year-- Kaden started asking about a week before school started if I was going to make a treat. I think we have a new tradition :) Does this pencil look familiar Hollie? PS. those aren't frosting smudges around the tray-- it's just a beat up tray.
And then Tuesday, Aug 12th (her 3rd birthday), Ella started preschool. What a big girl! She cried when I dropped her off, so I felt like crying. I came back a little early and observed her without her seeing me. She was having the time of her life. I could tell she felt like such a big girl. It has been almost two weeks and I can already see improvements in her. This preschool incorporates her physical and occupational therapies.
This was a busy Tuesday. Kaden had piano, and a cub scout pack meeting. He received his wolf. Good Job Bud!

The boys (meaning grown boys too) had fun launching bottle rockets.

And then we had a late night birthday party for Ella!

She got these new princess jammies from Grandpa price- she has worn them everyday since. The second she gets home from preschool, she asks to wear her "princess jammies".

**********************************************************************************
On my mind...
Does anyone read Cjane (Courtney in utah) or NieNie dialogues (Stephanie in Arizona)? They are sister's that both have extremely popular blogs. I've read both blogs for about a year and a half now, and feel like I know them, even though they have no clue who I am (I'm not the only one). Stephanie (Nie Nie) and her husband were in a plane crash (small plane) last Saturday. A flight instructor was with them, and he was killed (lds father of four). They are here in Phoenix and have been badly burned - Stephanie about 80% of her body. They have four young children. When I heard the news, I couldn't sleep and shed tears on and off till 3am. Courtney is updating her blog about the situation if anyone wants to read-- it's quite inspirational. It makes me want to be a better person, my trials seem so petty compared to this. My point of sharing it here, is to get everyone I know to pray for this family too.