Wordless Wednesday...Valentine's Day

Back to School 2011...Take One

Back to School (2011 edition) has been a  pretty darn big deal in the Lindsay House.  This year marks the beginning of Garrett's start in our local elementary school...bring on all day Kindergarten!  In addition, Ryder begins preschool this Monday.  We have chosen a "new" preschool for our family (ahem, Ryder) this year and are excited for the change.  Ryder's cousin will be joining him in the classroom this year and I would LOVE to be a fly on the wall their first day!  Super cute photos to come on Monday...stay tuned!

Back to Tuesday!  I will admit, it was easier for me to send Garrett off to Kindergarten than it was Parker.  Parker was my first.  My guinea pig.  He and I were not sure what to expect.  Together, we were newbies.  At the time, I was also pregnant with Hudson; therefore, I was a HOT MESS when Parker started.  Garrett, on the other hand, has been pleading to go to Kindergarten for two years!  It has been easier to put my nerves and emotions in check when this new journey is so appealing to him. 

Tuesday morning went super smooth...lunches had been packed the day before, coordinating outfits were at the ready, and Mama's camera battery had been charged.  The boys headed to school with their bellies full of scrambled eggs, toast, fruit, and milk.  Eric, who was amidst working 6x12's (night shift to top it off), was able to join us on our walk to school before heading to bed.   

Hey mom, I'm in 2nd grade this year!

My mom was unsure how many fingers I should hold up for Kindergarten...she

threw an apple in my hand.  Appropriate, yes?!

Parker LOVES school and is a great student...his smile says it all.  He is ready!

My Baby G...no worries about starting Kindergarten from him!

I have no idea why we get asked ALL THE TIME if they are twins...ha!

Garrett at his table and happy to start his morning off by coloring!

On my way back through the hall, I stopped for one last photo of Parker as well. 

Overall, he puts up with my antics fairly well considering he is oh so cool (and mature) now.

The dismissal of the students at the conclusion of the day was over the top crazy.  We have had some changes within our school district which has included additional students, staff, and buses merging with our local elementary school.  That being said, both of my boys bounded out of the school doors with smiles and stories to tell.  Thankfully, upon picking Parker up yesterday I noticed the after school flow proceeding much more efficiently.  Within the first few weeks, I am certain most of the kinks will be worked out. 

Garrett heads back for his second day tomorrow as our school does a staggered start for the Kindergarten students.  He is more than eager to meet new friends, get back outside for recess, and partake in another one of Mommy's packed lunches. 

Through The Years...First Day Of School

It was back to school today for our older two boys!  Parker is making his way through elementary school as he began 2nd grade today!  I had to fight back a few sniffles as Garrett joined him at the elementary school this year.  Indeed, our Baby G started Kindergarten today!  Let's take a look at "our boys" (versus our bitties) on the first day of school in years past....

2009

Parker's first day of Kindergarten & Garrett's first day of Preschool

2010

Parker's first day of 1st grade & Garrett's first day of his 2nd year of Preschool

 

2011

Parker's first day of 2nd grade & Garrett's first day of Kindergarten

As their mom, looking at this progression, I am pleading for time to stand still!  To quote my 3 year old nephew, "I cannot like" my babies growing up!  I have more first day photos to share, but this mama is quite simply exhausted.  Stay tuned!

Money Maker

A conversation that took place between Garrett and myself as we walked to meet Parker after school last Friday...

Garrett:  Ma, what school will we go to after this school (this school meaning our local elementary school)?

Me:  The Junior High, buddy.

Garrett:  Then what?

Me:  Then High School.

Garrett:  Then what?

Me:  Then college.  Do you want to go to college, Garrett? 

Garrett:  shrugs his shoulders and smiles

Me:  What  do you want to be when you grow up, Garrett?

Garrett:  A dirt bike rider!  And a money maker!

Me:  A money maker?!

Garrett:  Yep, a money maker!  Then I would put all the money in envelopes and give it to kids who did not have any!  For toys...for food...for a house.

Me:  Garrett, I think that is a great idea!  You are a sweet little boy!


Once again, I was reminded how really big his heart truly is.

Wordless Wednesday...Love This Face

...LOVE this boy!!!!

Happy *HEART* Day!!!

The older two boys were busy celebrating Valentine's Day at school this week.  I will admit, I greatly enjoy taking on artsy-crafty projects alongside the boys.  Okay, keeping it real...often, I am the leader and they follow along.   Regardless, we work well together and it is fun to dig into my craft supplies.    

Garrett and his classmates have been passing out their Valentine's throughout the week and yesterday was his "true" party.  The kiddos enjoyed cupcakes brought in by their parents and games rewarded with small prizes.  In the past, the children at KKNS have been asked to decorate a bag to place their Valentine's inside.  This year they were asked to decorate a box (yea!!!).

Garrett, Eric, and I worked together to make Garrett a Robot Valentine box.  I was pretty happy as I had all the supplies on hand with the exception of the felt hearts (which I scored dirt cheap during a sale at Jo-Ann Fabrics). 

Garrett and his Robot...SUPER cool (and yet, super cute!).  Garrett's favorite part was putting on the sticky rhinestones (aka bolts!). 

This was the first year that we did not do store bought Valentines for the boys to pass out.  Darn those ladies over at eighteen25!!!  They have posted some absolute yumminess for Valentines Day inspiration this year.  We jumped on (last year's bandwagon) and made these A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E Tootsie Pop Valentines for Garrett's friends.  About 48 of them...

Okay, so we substituted a Blow Pop in place of a Tootsie Pop.  No biggie.  Garrett was amazed that Mommy took one picture, yet we had 48 (give or take) of these spread out all over our Dining Room table. 

Ahhhh...Parker's Valentines.  If you checked out the above link to the Tootsie Pop Valentines, you may have noticed the Robot Valentines.  Parker wanted those.  I cannot say I blame him.  They, too were pretty darn A-Mazing!  I (Parker has been sick, remember) had darn near completed the 17 of them *we* needed, when I had one HOT mess with M&M's and Tacky Glue.  Change of plans...

I went back to the sisters over at eighteen25 and came across these...

They were super simple to make and Parker wrote his name (and classmates' names) on the back.  Personally, I think the photo works splendidly with the Happy *Heart* Day template!

 

Inside held a sweet treat...

Two Robots are better than one, right?  Especially when Mommy has all of the materials already out.  Thankfully, we were able to carve out a few minutes here and there while Parker was to sick to complete his box.  Eric would like for it to be known that he attached the head.  Thanks, Daddy!

Parker's Valentine's Day Party at school was a success.  Mrs. A's class enjoyed cupcakes, cookies, goodie bags galore, a Valentine Craft (lead by yours truly, duh...), and a quick game of 7-Up (OMGosh, I had forgotten all about that game...too fun!).

Have a fantastic weekend!!!!

Some Days...

...I feel like I gave birth to twins.  About 4 years apart. 

(Garrett)

(Hudson)

You do understand why, right?!!!

Garrett's 5th Birthday Bash

On Sunday, our friends and family joined us to celebrate Garrett's 5th Birthday.  We rented a local hall as our house is ready to burst when 35+ people gather within in it (or the kiddos are not free to run and play as they wish...either way).  The food was great (Taco Bar), the company was awesome, and Garrett had a wonderful time!  The party (in a few) photos....

Garrett is BIG on Super Mario Bros. right now so we ran with that as our theme.  Typically, my mom makes the birthday cakes in these parts; however, she has a lot on her plate right now.  I baked cupcakes and the birthday boy was pretty pleased (he did question where his cake was from Mammy...thankfully, I had purchased him a dirt bike cake for his actual birthday...I reminded him of that and all was well).  As it would turn out, frosting and I are not friends.  The botched job I did decorating the cupcakes does not do his cupcake toppers justice.  I wish I could take credit for the toppers; however, for the sake of time (and Mommy's sanity) I ordered them off Etsy. 

The birthday boy in front of his cupcakes...

It's Mario and Luigi at the kiddie table...

I found Super Mario Bros water bottles and thought they would make a perfect party favor for the kids attending the party!
 

We bought him a Nintendo DS for his birthday and he LOVED the dirt bike game Aunt Wesilee and the boys bought him.  His face says it all!

Make a wish...

This is 100% Garrett!  We have learned that you never know what Garrett will do while we sing to him at his party.  At his 1st and 2nd b-day, he cried.  Along came his 3rd and he threw himself to the floor.  During his 4th, he somewhat pouted.  This year, he gave us all the shy, smirk, stop all the fuss (though I really like it) Garrett face.

Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate Garrett's birthday!  We are blessed with very loving family and friends...we are oh so appreciative!

It's My Birthday! I Can Do Whatever I Want!

Garrett's 5th Birthday has come and gone and as of 4:16pm yesterday he is 5 years old!!!  I am still shaking my head in disbelief.  Yesterday, our celebration was low-key as his party is a few weekends away and most of our extended family is sick.

The birthday boy requested pancakes and sausage for breakfast (as they all do) and was happily served the first pancakes off the griddle.  I heard him proclaim (often) throughout the day, "It's my birthday!  I can do whatever I want!".  Gotta love him!

For the second year in a row, we went sledding on the night of Garrett's birthday.  The boys (ahem, and us!) just love this form of cheap entertainment!  Eric did not get home from work as soon as we had hoped, so mama did not get many stellar photos (it was dark!).  Here is our birthday boy before heading off down the hill, though!

Upon returning home from sledding we enjoyed some pizza (the birthday boy's request), cake, and ice cream.  He wanted a dirt bike cake and this mama does not do cakes.  He was more than pleased with the cake I had made featuring a dirt trail.  We added a Lego dirt bike atop the cake and it was pure perfection!

Sure thing, a second dirt bike was added to the cake as well...FYI that is Garrett riding in front of Parker!  It is his birthday after all.  Do you notice that he now has two missing teeth?  The tooth fairy came (again) on his birthday! 

Make a wish...

He opened up his gifts from us as well.  I think the expression on his face says it all...he was pretty stoked about receiving his own DS (and no longer having to share Parker's!).

Love you, Garrett!  I hope your birthday was as special as you are!

Happy 5th Birthday, Garrett

Dear Garrett,


Happy 5th Birthday, Baby G (yes, you will always be my and Aunt Leslie's Baby G)!  It is hard to believe that 5 years have passed since we welcomed our first blonde, peach fuzzed baby boy into the world.  With your birth, we became a family of four.   Your daddy and I vividly recall bringing you home on New Years Eve 2005.  Daddy and I took turns with you laying on our chests that evening, as your older brother, Parker, slept peacefully upstairs.  I can not imagine a more delightful way to ring in the new year!


You are no longer our long legged, chubby cheeked, squishy little lad.  Over the course of five years, you have developed into (without a doubt) one of the most handsome little boys.  Ever.  I would say the same if I was not your mama!  Your genuine smile, hearty laugh, and piercing eyes simply draw people to you.  Garrett, you are quick to share your love.  I love that about you!  You are carefree with your hugs, kisses, and kind gestures.  Outside of your daddy, you are the first to tell me I look pretty and compliment me when I take the time to get dolled up.  Oh dear, you are going to charm the ladies!


Garrett, you have a zest for life that goes unmatched.  A simple game of Go Fish makes me you downright giddy.  The fact that someone remembers your favorite color; therefore, buying you a blue Hot Wheels over a red one pleases you to no end.


You are an AWESOME helper, Garrett!  You are quick to help me in the kitchen and love to give Daddy a hand outside or in the "regarge" (aka garage).  I love that you are eager to learn and ask endless questions as you assist us during various tasks.  Keep on questioning us 'lil buddy...it keeps us on our toes!


It has been a joy to watch you come into your own this past year.  You have taken on new challenges...T-Ball, Soccer, and Wrestling.  When it comes to sports, you are a natural.  It is a pleasure to watch you in your element.  You have made new friends and are well behaved at school.  I could not be prouder of you!


Baby G, there is a special place in my heart just for you.  My spirited 'lil boy!  You never cease to amaze me and I love you to pieces.  Happy 5th Birthday, Garrett!!  May this next year be full of smiles, laughter, and joy! 


Love, Mama

Garrett...Minus One Tooth

On Friday, Garrett lost his first tooth!  At age 4.  Okay, he will be 5 at the end of this month; however, he is still 4 in my eyes.  After Parker recently losing his first two, my mom is convinced Garrett willed himself into as loose tooth of his own.  I predict he will begin shaving in the fifth grade!  My friend agrees and reminded me that his voice changed while he was still in the womb!  Seriously.

Garrett and his new grin (and semi tame bed head) on Friday am.  The missing tooth is hard to see.  He is missing a bottom tooth...looking at him it was the one to the left of his front  middle teeth.  Is it just me or is that odd?  Moving on...congrats, Baby G!

Tooth Fairy Pillows

The topic of losing teeth is a hot one around our house.  Parker has now lost two and Garrett has his first loose one.  The race is on to see who can lose more!  When Parker was younger, my Mother-in-Law bought him a kit to make a cute tooth pillow when he began losing his baby teeth.  I am clueless as to where it ended up. 

While browsing Etsy a few weeks ago, I did a search for tooth fairy pillow.  Holy cuteness!  The pillows themselves varied in both design and prices.  I found them ranging in price from $4 to $30!  Add in the cost of shipping and I knew I could construct a few pillows myself.  Cheaper!


I had endless amounts of ribbon, buttons, and embroidery floss on hand.  I picked up some sheets of felt (on sale), poly-fil, and a few appliques (again, on sale) and it was time to get to work. 

Garrett's finished tooth fairy pillow...his favorite color is blue and I think the little robot is adorable.  I am not thrilled with the button placement (felt tends to stretch some), but overall I am happy with the end result.  I love that he can hang it outside his door or on his bedpost.  Let's be real...some kids may not be thrilled with an unknown fairy coming into their room at night;)

Parker's pillow...number two.  The first one I did found itself in Ryder's hands.  Enough said.  I am digging the purple, green, and black color combo!  Parker is a fan as well! 

On the back of the pillow I put a little pocket for the lost tooth.  In return, the fairy can leave a few coins or rolled up bill in it's place. 

My sewing machine and I are on the outs.  The tension on it has been giving me problem for months.  I need to have someone look at it.  Therefore, this was a no sew project (outside of the buttons).  I used fabric glue and it worked like a charm.  The plan was to hand stitch the outer edges, but to save time I cheated. 

Bring on the tooth fairy...we are ready!

Two 'Lil Apple Runners...One With A Rocky Start

A few weeks ago, Parker came sprinting out of school waving a paper in his hand.  "I want to run in the Kids One Mile race at the Apple Festival, Mom," he shouted in my direction.  Man, I wish I could bottle the enthusiasm that flowed through his body at that moment.  It was pretty awesome!  I let him know I would happily register him for the race and wished him luck.

We began our walk home from school and I knew a request from Garrett was in the immediate future.  Garrett questioned if he, too, could run in the parade.  I let him know it was not a parade, but rather a one mile "race".  "I want to do it," Garrett replied.  One mile run.  Garrett.  He is four.  Honestly, I was not sure if the rules would allow him to enter.  There are three separate categories for the Apple Run...8 and under Kids One Mile, 9-13 Kids One Mile, and the 5k.  Was there an age minimum for the Kids 8 and under?  Hmmmm...Mommy would look into it.

I breathed a sigh of relief upon discovering I could register both older boys for the run.  They were over the moon.  Pumped!  They told everyone about the race.  They trained.  The more excited they got...the more excited I got.  I only wish Eric was not working nights the weekend of the festival; therefore, sleeping during the day.  He missed Parker's great football game (more coming on that), the parade, and the race.  The boys missed him.  I missed him.  Family fun just is not the same when you are missing a key member. 

Parker and Garrett after we checked in at registration.  We had an "Oh No!" moment when we were informed that Parker was not pre-registered.  Ummm...yes, he was!  After looking through their registration forms the workers realized Parker's form was stuck to the back of Garrett's form.  Poor 'lil lad did not received his T-shirt on race day because of it.  Shucks!

Prior to leaving for the run the boys had been riding their bikes for no less than 3 hours.  I attempted to encourage them to sit down.  You know, reserve some energy for their BIG run.  The sitting did not last long. 

With no sitting going on I thought it would be a good idea for them to stretch.  This is what I got.  Seriously, boys!  I am unsure if there is a leaf or piece of paper on Garrett's bootie.  Goofballs!

A sampling of the Under 8 runners...Parker and Garrett are in the back row.  Parker has a huge smile on his face and is ready to GO!!!  Garrett is sizing up the competition.  Or something like that.  

...and they are off!  Seconds after this photo was taken one lone runner landed smack dab, face down into the pavement.  Any guesses who?

Yep, my Baby G.  Who knows how he ended up face first in the concrete.  Was he pushed?  Did he trip over his own two feet?  Did the older dude to his left dart out in front of him and therefore he stumbled?  As he fell to the ground I heard gasps....oh no's...poor little guy's.  The largest gasps came from myself, two brothers, and sister-in-law.  This was Garrett on the ground.  My spirited child.  For those of who know Garrett we wondered what in the world was coming next?  Would he blame Parker?  Would he yell something inappropriate?  Would he kick his feet and throw a monstrous fit? 

Quickly I rushed into the road, big 'ole camera and zoom lens around my neck, and scooped up all solid 50 pounds of Garrett off the ground.  I hugged him tight, did a once over on his face, and asked him if he was okay.  Yes, mama.   Do you still want to run?  No...'eh, yes! 

Before my eyes, I saw my Baby G pull himself together and take off again.  About 45 seconds behind the other runners.  Off he went...he and his poofy hair.  My heart swelled with pride and he stole many hearts in the crowd.

Here comes Parker...more than half way done.  I did not give my kiddos enough credit and thought I would get more photos of them running.  The plan was to walk briskly alongside them, but they were fast little boogers!  I anticipated a lot more walking from each of them!  Truth be told, neither of them walked for more than 30 seconds total.  They rock!

Here comes Garrett.  And his poof!  He had the BIGGEST smile on his face as he approached me.  As he ran past he questioned if he was in last place.  No, little buddy.  You are doing great!  Keep on running.  And he did!

Two tired little runners with beat red cheeks!  Boys, mama is so proud of you! 

As I approached the finish line the clock read 13 minutes (and something).  I would estimate Parker had to have had a time in the 9-10 minute range.  Garrett I would put right around 11 minutes.  I know nothing about time when related to little kids running, but I am impressed.  More importantly, they each finished what they started!  Both are eager to run in next year's Apple Run.  I believe I am going to ride my bike alongside of them to keep up.  Well, and get more action shots.

Wordless Wednesday...'Lil Apple Runners

(More to come about Parker and Garrett's One Mile Kids Run)