Ryan's 3 year old preschool picture

Ryan funny!

Conversation with Ryan this morning while getting him ready for school:

Ryan: "Meanie-pants."

Me: "Ryan, we don't say ugly words in this house." 

Ryan (with a sad face): "Awww, where DO we say them?"

First day of school 2011

Quiet moments after naptime

All of a sudden, Ryan has become ALL boy.  It is like it happened overnight.  He went from being pretty laid back to this jumping, talking ball of energy. 

He asks the same question 10 times.  And after the 1st time of answering, he can tell you the answer...I think he just likes to hear himself talk. 

While trying to get him dressed, he twists and turns.  His pants are never on straight after the first attempt.

He wants to do things by himself.  "I do it!" 

He has to check out everything!  Sometimes it takes FOREVER just to make it the few steps to the van to go somewhere.  He wants to play with the toys in the garage on the way, or get in on the wrong side of the van, or find his bear.  Anything that will keep him from going directly to the van in a timely fashion.

He even looks more like a big boy.

But as much energy as he has lately, little dude still loves his naps!  Today, as I was sitting in the dark room rocking him after his nap, he was especially sweet.  He said "Mommy, I am going to love you HARD!" as he gave me a really tight hug.  Those quiet moments are some of the best!  I treasure them.  Because as soon as he really wakes up and hits the ground, I know I am going to be on my toes again!

Roebuck Readers!

This year, Morgan has participated in a program at school called Roebuck Readers.  The school sends home a book as often as requested.  We read them with Morgan and filled out a log of all the books she read.  She filled up several logs...enough to qualify for a party at the end of the year.  So, this morning, she got to go to the breakfast party.  She received an award, a shirt, and was recognized on the RES morning show!  She is so proud!  Keep it up, Morgie...we are proud of you!

Carnations for Character

Today was Carnations for Character.  It is the equivalent of honors day.  The program started out in the music room.  We watched a sweet slideshow the teachers had put together.  Emma's class pictures were set to the Oak Ridge Boys "Thank God for Children".  I had never heard it before, and it brought tears to my eyes.

After the slideshow, we went back to the classroom.  Each child read something that they had written during the school year.  Then Mrs. Harris present each child with an award and a carnation. Emma got the "Learning" award for "spending the time it takes to find out what you need to know".  I thought it was so appropriate.  Emma loves to learn!  She is so smart, and has done SO well this year.

Emma, we are SO proud of you! 

Mrs. Harris and Emma

Jeni and Emma

Birthday Pop-Tart

It is has become a family tradition to put candles in the breakfast of the birthday person.  I will admit...this was Shane's doings!  He started it years ago with Emma.  I made fun of it at first, but it has become a really fun tradition.  The kids all love it!  This morning, Ryan requested a chocolate Pop-Tart (big surprise).   I can't believe my baby boy is three years old.

Too cute!  He still has a hard time keeping his pinky down and only holding up 3 fingers!