6th birthday

Olive had her birthday party at Simply Jane Art Studio this year. She and each of her guests got to choose a canvas to paint during the party. It was really fun!

Sleep

Today I went to get Mae up from her nap and she didn't wake up when I walked in. She always wakes up at the sound of her door opening.

Such a treat to see her resting so peacefully.

Snow play

Perfect day for snow!

Series

I love these pictures of Olive and Gaston at Disney World in December:

Olive's first day of school

Olive had her first day at Friends School yesterday. I continue to feel completely confident in our choice of school for her. There are 13 kids in her class with a teacher and an aide.

She had a great first day, and only cried a tiny bit when we left. Her favorite part of the day was gym. Today, day 2, she went in with no hesitation at all!

Kindergarten

As all parents know, this is harder for me than it is for her.  I've been very aware of NOT making it a big deal for her.  I don't need to put my anxieties on her.  

Kindergarten.  It's a big deal.  But why?

It is the beginning of being a real kid.  A kid who is gone from her Mama all day, every day.  A kid who is making friends on her own terms, learning from other adults, and choosing interests.

I am sad that our days at home together will be less often.  That we won't wake up on my days off and say, "what should we do today?  Zoo?  Park?  Museum?".  

It just feels BIG.  A milestone.  Concrete evidence that she is no longer a baby.  Or a toddler.  Or even a preschooler.  She's a kid now.

Olive,
 I am so proud of you.  I have seen such a change in you over this summer.  You've gained so much confidence.  I know you will thrive in Kindergarten.  You will make friends, you will learn so much, and you will continue to grow up.

I am happy that you are my girl.

"I will be your home

I will be your guide

I will be your friend

always on your side

sleep now in your room

quiet of the night

surrounded by the moon

till you see the light"

("Night Mantra" by Renee and Jeremy)

Go.

Go now.

Grow up.


I love you, 

Mama

Little Sister

It's a good thing Mae is such a tolerant little sister...