First (and Second) Day of Kindergarten at Hidden Creek Elementary

Lucas started his afternoon kindergarten class Monday at Hidden Creek Elementary. He was super excited and even more excited to ride the big yellow school bus. He now has a very busy day, but it is broken up at lunch so he does get a little break. He has morning class at the Montessori, I pick him up at 11:30, we come home, have some lunch, run around a bit, then catch the bus at 12:30 - home at 4:15. Long day - but he's up for it. He loves school, and already is doing very well in class. We're very proud of our big boy!

Lucas in front of the school

Frances wanted her picture taken too.

Lucas with his teacher, Mrs. Kisiday.

Lucas is now a Hawk!

We'll see how small that sign gets as the years progress...

On the second day of school Lucas took the bus (Had to take him myself the first day). I had things all together until that big yellow thing came for my little baby. Frances didn't understand what was happening, she was crying her eyes out, poor little thing. She did much better today (so did mommy). Lucas is very excited about riding the bus - hopefully it stays that way!

Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day Weekend was spent doing much needed house chores, errands, and getting ready for the school year. We did spend Saturday at Kandle Water Park in Tacoma. It was a beautiful day and the kids had a great time playing in the wave pool. My friend Dawn took the picture of us below.

Now, the rain is upon us and school is almost in full swing. Here's to a great 2013-14 year! 

First day of school!

Today was Lucas' first day as a kindergartner at Discovery Montessori. He was very excited to go back to school. He has a new teacher, Mrs. Nelson. She is a wonderful teacher and I'm excited to see how Lucas will grow in her class. Next week is the big week when Lucas starts Kindergarten at his elementary school, Hidden Creek. Stay tuned! 

Lucas is very excited about his shoes.

Seated in circle. Bummed about the blurry picture, but I was chasing Frances around too.

Frances the cat

Tall Ships

The tall ships were in Port Orchard a couple of weeks ago. I meant to post these pics a while ago, but alas...

Frances eating a hot dog before we went out to see the Lady Washington and the Hawaiian Chieftain (which you can see their masts in the background).

On board watching Lucas at the helm

Taking charge of the ship

Yo ho yo ho, a pirates life for me...

Last Camping Trip

We had our last camping trip of the season out at Penrose Point State Park this weekend. It is always so nice out there and the kids have such a great time. We relaxed at the campsite most of Friday - went for a short walk - but that was about it. Saturday spent most of the day at the beach playing in the tidepools, boating, playing bocce ball and smash ball, and hiking around the point. Sunday the boys went fishing, caught no fish, but saw a pod of dolphins and some harbor seals. Frances and I went home to sleep every night because she wakes very early and I was hoping to spare the rest of the campground. It was a great weekend. But, secretly, I'm happy we're coming to a close with all the trips. I'm ready to get back to a normal schedule and work on routine again. 

California 2013

This trip began over two weeks ago with the four of us flying down to CA so I could attend my 20 year high school reunion. We flew on a Friday, reunion on Saturday, Randy flying home on Sunday (He had to go back to work on Monday). Quick weekend - but worth it - I had a great time catching up with old friends.

The kids and I spent the rest of that week at my parents house lounging by the pool and hanging out with family. I hardly took any pictures, not one with my grandmother, or the kids with their cousins in the pool - I was pretty lazy. The week ended with us road-tripping back to Washington with my folks. We arrived home and spent the week with my parents lounging around the house. We did have a big dinner party so my parents could meet my friends - yep, no pictures of that, either. The last day my parents were here, we did ventured to the zoo - I managed to snap a few pics there. Woot! On Saturday (the day my parents left) Randy and I decided to drive down with them to Portland for a stop in to see my sister. Quick afternoon, but nice to see Aunt Jana.

Yes, very busy two weeks, but very fun and relaxing as well.

The grandkids in the grandparent's bed watching cartoons.

Lounging in the pool

Lounging by the pool

Running...

...to jump...

...in the...

...pool.

My brother came by on his way out for a fishing trip to say goodbye on our last day in Merced.

Lucas loved climbing around on his boat!

Here we are at the zoo checking out the seals (or is he checking us out?!).

Feeding the budgies (I think this is our new favorite thing to do at the zoo.)

Frances really wanted to touch the birds!

The sharks wanted to chomp her!

Riding the carousel. 

In Portland, after my parents left Jana's, we headed over to a nearby park to play before getting back in the car for the drive home.

It was a fun little play and sprayground.

Ooooh, my high school reunion. Good times.

Some of the kids who went to grade school together.

Summer is almost coming to a close. We've got about two more weeks and one more camping trip planned. It been a great season, but I think I'm ready for school to start (so is Lucas!).