1st Day of School

First day of 2nd grade!!!! I was really excited for this year- it would be my first time to take her on her first day of school. I know, I know, I should have done this already! But every year Wordshop starts on the same day as the first day of school. And since I have been leading or teaching, it just hasn't worked out for me to take her. But with the new school and a time change to Wordshop, it worked this year! And I must say I am so proud of Chloe! She changed schools this year, which means new buildings, new teachers, new friends. I was nervous for her!

We went the open house last night to meet her teacher and look around the school. Then this morning I walked her to breakfast. I admit, I got misty-eyed! I could tell she was a little unsure of the new surroundings. If I could have, I would have offered to stay with her all day! But once we got to the cafeteria, she watched a couple of kids, then put on her brave face and went to stand in line. She said goodbye then just left me standing at the door! I'm sure I'm the only one who noticed her nervous habits and the lopsided grin when she is anxious on the inside. But I was so proud of her courage and boldness!

Jeremy and I have been praying that this would be an easy transition for her. It can be a big deal to a kid! But a girl, Trinity, from her other school also moved to our area and they are in the same class! Then on top of that, last year's teacher got transferred to the new school and does 1st/2nd. So she will get to see Mrs. Harasek randomly throughout the week. When I picked her up from school today, Chloe talked nonstop about her day and the people she met along the way. I think this is going to be a great year!

Best Friends

Sharing a pancake with her best friend Violet.

Baby and Violet have a VERY strong tie that will be very difficult to break! ViVi, as she calls her, goes everywhere with us and sleeps with her at night. Even though Chloe played with dolls, Chloe never fully became attached to them or mothered them. She played pretend, but it wasn't really part of our daily life. Baby, however, doesn't like to go anywhere without a doll. Violet is her first love (as far as dolls go). But I have to admit the dog is pretty neat. You can plug it into the computer and program it. It sings different songs, does learning games and rhymes and calls her by her name.

For the past week, I have been waking up to one of Violet's songs. Baby wakes up super early, will turn her on, then fall asleep listening to the songs. Or she sings to ViVi. Jeremy and I have considered stocking up on Violet dolls- just in case this one breaks!

One of my biggest pet peeves is wasted money! I HATE buying something to try, only to discover that it doesn't work/don't like it/isn't all that was promised. So, how do you remedy this? SAMPLES!!!! I have found that most companies offer samples of their products. This includes food products, household products and personal products! Many companies have sample offers on their websites or there are various sites that offer samples for companies. We have tried many types of shampoos & conditioners, sunscreen, laundry soap, deodorant, pens, coffee, toothpaste, cereal bars, boxes of cereal, chips, candy, and much more. So, here are a few of my favorite sample sites. Enjoy!

WalMart
Freebies4Mom
Mom Advice
P & G

Baby Steps!

It's baby steps, but at least it's progress! For over a year, I have done my best to keep a close eye on Logan's diet. Occasionally, we overlook something, but for the most part we have been successful! He has gone overnight with grandparents, but always within the safety of their house. I don't worry too much about what he eats when he is with them because I know they have his best interest at heart and will take care of him. But this weekend is something new! Chloe and Logan will be going to a family reunion- on the other side of the state- with Jeremy's parents. That means road trip, someone else's kitchen, etc. Logan has a good idea of the foods that make his tummy happy and which ones make his tummy hurt. As his mother, it is a real concern that I have to send him out without me! The planner in me has already started a list of ingredients to be aware of and also a list of restaurants/fast food places that have acceptable items. Part of me wants to map out their route and highlight food stops along the way, but I'm going to keep myself under control :) Instead, I will opt for a bag of safe goodies!

Great Blog to Read!

My friend Tina has an amazing and inspirational blog site that everyone should read! Tina is one of those women who is beautiful inside and out! She is a Godly woman of strength, kindness, love and beauty. In her posts, you will read her heart, humor and hair!

http://www.afrotina.com/

I encourage everyone to take a few minutes and explore her wonderful blog!