Five Little Cupcakes

Have you heard this song before?

I haven't.  Soren came home yesterday singing the most adorable little tune.  

'5 little cupcakes in the bakery shop.  Ones with sugar and sprinkles on top!  Along came momma with a penny to spend - so she bought one cupcake and raaaaaaan away!'

Seriously!  We whole heartedly thought school was going to be a milestone for Soren, but we completely underestimated how much of an impact it would have.  A few weeks in and we couldn't be happier.  He shows so much enthusiasm and comes home with such confidence it's a joy to watch.  Even on his uncertain or difficult days - we can talk and work through it.  

The school also sends home sheets filled with information about how we can develop as Montessori parents.  We now have a 'peace corner', we hang his working words (proactive this month), turn the radio off in the car and talk, sing sitting in a circle, set up - work through - and clean up works, well - you get the idea.  It's been an absolute blast!

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A portrait a week of my children, once a week, every week, in 2014'   

Last week was SUPER crazy!  Soren had his first full week of school and I was able to snag a couple snap shots of him doing 'works' at home.  He's painting here... painting his own hand, and then mine so we could make 'handprints!'  Watching this guy grow has been the greatest gift. 

I know I'm behind - Sorry!  This week's (36) will be up in a couple days.  

Tybee 2014 Video

Here it is!!!  I finally pilfered through all of our Tybee videos.  

I can't say how amazing this trip was.  Don't be surprised if our family finds our way down there permanently in the coming years.  (and a great snapshot of Soren before our dolphin tour).

Enjoy!

Soren LOVED the waves.  I couldn't believe how he took to them - I am still in awe!

The tune is by the Pop Ups - a great, fun, hip band for kids.  Box of Crayons.  Buy their album here!


Soren's First Day

Soren's first day was yesterday.  Wow.  This day came so much quicker than I had anticipated!

We've been talking about school with Soren since the Sands camp-out (to get him in, so worth the Montessori program).  He's been pumped since day one.  We found out a few days ago that we wouldn't be allowed to walk in with him *gasp.  After our initial shock, we started talking to Soren about what dropping him off would entail. 

None of it shocked him.  He was absolutely alright with it.  Yesterday, he told us as they started opening the doors - 'Mom, Dad, you can't go in with me.  This is MY school.  I love you!'  Gave us a quick hug and kiss, grabbed the TA's hand and took off.  Didn't even look back - so incredibly independent.

The 3 hours went on forever.  Rick and I dried our eyes at a breakfast for two (Sleepy Bee even felt for us and gave us a brownie on the house.  Thanks guys!!), snagged Soren a little 'first day' gift from King Arthurs and headed home - chatting about what amazing adventures are in store for our little man.  

I am thrilled to see what the next year will bring for Soren and the stories he will come home with.  He walked out yesterday with a bracelet around his wrist and a smile.  We sat waiting for him on the bench - first in line with his class ('A' Andress, of course) and the first thing we heard him say is 'Ms. Mitza, it's a beautiful day!'.  *tear.  He came out with his class, passed us and didn't miss a step.  He sat criss-cross applesauce with his class and waited to be dismissed.  Lots of sighs and tears - I am so happy for you little man and so proud I get to be your mother.