My first kindergartener.

Yesterday was Oliver's first day of kindergarten. The way his school is set up his classroom has pre-k (half-day friends) and kindergarten (all day friends) in the same class. So he has the same teacher (although his teacher is currently on bed rest and soon to be maternity leave) and some of the same kids in his class as last year.

He was so excited to ride the bus this year. He did ride the bus last year but only on the way home. It was a bus just for the 4 year olds and it dropped him off in front of our house.

He reported that he had a great first day. When I asked him what his favorite part of the day was he said it was going to gym class because he got to watch them open and close the gym dividers. Who would have thought.

He had the same bus driver to and from school. She seems really nice and like she's taking good care of him. Eloise was so excited to see her big brother. It may not look like it, but that is a picture of Oliver giving her a really big hug.

He's getting so big and turning out to be a great kid. I'm so proud of him.

Our Labor Day Adventure

Today we went to Minnehaha Falls. The weather was perfect 68 degrees and the sunny.

Here is a picture of falls

Here is Oliver, Amelia and Eloise walking down the wooded path

They loved wading in the water. Eloise especially needed it. Look at how dirty she was!

Oh wait, you can't see those beautiful pictures because I forgot the camera at home! I was so upset when I realized my error. There was sure to be some priceless pictures.

I took a deep breath and quickly remembered a blog my dear friend just wrote about being present with your children. I instantly felt better. I would live this outing in the moment and not behind the camera lens. I did it and man was it worth it. We all had a great time. I will surely remember it as one of the best Labor Day outings ever, no pictures necessary.

My kids obviously needed a break

Oliver, Amelia and Eloise stayed at my parent's house last night. They actually "went camping" in their backyard. While we were saying our goodbyes Oliver tells me, "have fun in the quiet house and have fun not having anyone to boss around." Oh Oliver you hit the nail on the head more than your 5 year old brain could ever know.