Big Brother Started Pre-K!

Big brother turned 4 in April so we knew he was going to start Pre-K this year, I was just not prepared for the emotional mess I would be.

I am so proud of him! He was so excited to start "big boy school", as he calls it. He feels like such a big boy with his school uniform and book bag.

Obligatory "First Day of Pre-K" Shot

Happy to meet his teachers

That day's Schedule

His Cubby!

Hard at work with Pre-Writing Exercises

It was so nice to take my pics and stay with him for a little while. He was not sad that I was leaving, he was eager to get the day started and learn. I was very happy and excited. But then I got to the car and started thinking about how I have a school kid now, and how he was just a baby!!!! and I lost it!!! My baby is growing up! 

 4 or 5 months old
Where has the time gone???

Beach Mode

The boys enjoyed a lovely day at Assateague on Sunday. The weather was perfect and there was not a cloud in the sky. Can't wait for the next trip!

Crabs in Baltimore

If you are a Marylander, this is what you do! This is what your childhood memories entail! Crabs!!!

I am so happy to start passing down these traditions to my boys. I recently spent the day with my oldest, my sister and cousins by the water eating crabs.

This is what we call Bliss here in Maryland.

How to eat a crab. 

Hello, you beautiful crab, you!

He gets it! 

We ate at Captain James Crabhouse.

Art Jamz

We spent last Saturday at Art Jamz in DC. Art Jamz is a public art studio in Dupont Circle where you can go create your art while having a drink with friends. I loved the laid back yet creative atmosphere. It is perfect spot to visit for a date night, birthday party or just to hang out with friends. We were there for our little cousin's 10th birthday party! We all enjoyed. 

A Day With My Oldest

Aaron had a school field trip last week at the National Zoo in DC. My husband and I both decided to take the day and go with him. We realized when we left that we didn't take any pics of the animals but only of Aaron. He is 4 and we still look and him and can't believe he is ours! He is growing so much and too fast.

Shorts are from old Navy. Shirt is from H&M. Shoes are Chucks. 

I Can't Get No (Job) Satisfaction: Stephen Kellogg

Like many of you, I struggle daily with creating/maintaining my ideal "work-life balance". I have two young children and due to high cost of living in my area, I am not in a position where I can stay home. I am also not willing to move because my entire family is here and that support system is what keeps me sane.

When my kids are sick, or have school events, etc... those feelings of unhappiness with my job start to creep in. A friend sent me this video that was a great motivation to change my mindset while at work. I love the strategies that he presents. Take a look!


My favorite quote from his presentation:

"Climb Ladders Worth Climbing"

Scholastic's Summer Reading Challenge

I thought I would share this fun summer reading challenge launched by Scholastic!

Since our oldest just turned 4, we are starting thinking of ways we can prepare him for kindergarten. We have already experienced some hot and muggy weather, so this is great indoor activity to begin with when it gets too hot to go out.

The older Aaron gets, the more engaged he is with us in reading. His favorite book right now is Corduroy by Don Freeman, which is on the Summer Reading Book List. 

We are going to start by following step 1 of Scholastic's recommended steps to prepare for a successful summer reading adventure. We are going to do an inventory of our current library and donate any books our kids may have outgrown to make room for new favorites. 

For more information: 

2014 Summer Reading Book List

Scholastic Parents on Facebook 

Summer Reading Challenge Page