Richard's birthday

Richard is now 6! It's so fun to see the progress he's making.We did some fun activities the day before since his birthday was on a Sunday. We went miniature golfing, which he was so excited about. He was upset that I dared to add other activities to the day. We also ate at McDonalds.

His favorite birthday present was a Lego set.

He's already had a lot of fun with this game.

He wanted a strawberry cake with strawberries in the shape of a target. You can't tell, but there's a lone strawberry in the middle of the cake behind the candle.

We had my mom at the house for the day. Some extended family came for cake and fun.

Labor Day

We went up the canyon close to where I grew up for Labor Day and got together with my cousins. Only in a small town do I think kids would have the chance to meet and play with their 3rd cousins. We had a great time! My kids loved a swing someone tied to a tree and asked to go on it over and over. Marie was the most excited by that.

Peter found the Cheetos and pulled them off the table. 

All my kids were quite taken with the four-wheeler. I'm sure they would love it if we got one. However, I've seen way too many wicked accidents by very experienced riders as I've worked in the ICU. One night when I was the charge nurse, we had 4 ATV accidents admitted. I don't mind if they ride once in a while, but I don't want to own them.

soccer

Richard is playing soccer right now. His last game is this next week. He's had SO MUCH FUN! He loves to go. I don't think he really knows more than that he needs to kick the ball in the goal. However, he does his very best. He's not very assertive and certainly not the largest kid. However, he tries as hard as his little heart can. I'm so glad he's had a good experience.

First days of school

My kids started school. Just like everyone else's kids. Richard has fun at kindergarten but says he isn't learning anything. He probably is and it's just cleverly hidden in fun activities.

Audrey is ecstatic to finally be in school after watching Richard go to preschool for two years. Her teachers have complimented her ability to write. They could tell I've been working with her.

I love having my kids in school, because they get along better when they're not with each other all day every day. I love going shopping with just two kids.

bathrooms

You know what I HATE?! The size of a child's bladder. It gives only a moments notice when it needs to be emptied, and it must be emptied NOW! Regardless of the fact a bathroom was conveniently located 2 minutes earlier. Regardless of the fact it is no longer in any way convenient to go back to said bathroom. It must be emptied NOW! There is something to be said for diapers...

smiles

You know what makes me smile?
Hearing my three-year-old and one-year-old say "Go Richard!" during a soccer game. Repeatedly. Very loud. We may be noisy, but at least he has cheerleaders!