Back to School

Kate has been counting down to the first day of school for a week or so. Today was finally the day!

 Last week both kids had open house. Their teachers did a great job getting the room set up, which made them really excited. They loved seeing their desks and lockers, and organizing their school supplies. 

This morning was a bit rough for Andrew, as you can see by the picture. He came down the stairs with tears in his eyes but tried his best to be brave. This broke my heart and left me in tears on the way to my school. 

Kate however, was super excited. 

Luckily, after breakfast Andrew decided this whole school thing wasn't so bad and daddy got some more cheerful pictures. 

 Jason dropped Andrew off first and he quickly found a friend from his old preschool to play with. No tears at drop off!

Then it was Kate's turn. 

 No tears for her either...which if you're counting makes me the only one who cried on the way to school. ;)

 Both kids had a great day and while tired tonight, are ready for a fantastic year!

Worm Hunt

One minute they were playing in the basement, the next they were "hunting for worms".

Urban Assault

Today Jason & his friend Adam competed in a fun bike race called the Urban Assault. The race had 10 checkpoints around Des Moines. Riders had to determine their own route and many of the checkpoints had challenges that had to be completed. The kids & I had a great time chasing Jason all over town. 

At the Salisbury House with a GO DADDY GO sign. 

 The most amusing challenge to watch: sling-shotting a shoe to Adam, who was standing behind the white rope. 

 Putting together a puzzle at a local coffee shop (I think the kids really wanted to help them with this one!)

Ok, maybe this was the most amusing one to watch: giant big wheels at the end of the race. 

 The race officials were nice enough to let the kids on the finish line slip & slide!

 The second place finishers!

All Aboard!

On Wednesday Andrew & I had the day to ourselves. I think this was the first time we have spent an entire day with just the two of us and it was so much fun! The day started with back to school shopping, followed by playing video games at the mall. But the real treat was when we drove to Boone and road the Scenic Valley Railroad. It was two hours long, and though he did consume quite a few treats, Andrew spent the majority of the time simply enjoying the ride. 

 Love.

While we were having fun on the train, Kate was enjoying a day with Grandma C at the Omaha zoo. They also had an amazing day!

Lately

August was spent with filling our days with summer fun. Here's what we have been up to!

Bike ride on the High Trestle Trail for date night. 

 Kate picked out a tomato of her very own at the farmer's market. 

 Stealing cuddles with sweet baby Evan. 

 Andrew's first time off the diving board!

 A getaway at Honey Creek Lodge with some lovely ladies I used to teach with. 

 Cubs game with tickets earned through the library. The kids were so excited to get to "treat" grandma & papa to the game!

 Mmmmmm....

 A mani/pedi from dad.

 Papa Jack has been working hard on remodeling their kitchen. One morning the kids got to "help" demolition. 

 A fun afternoon at the park for this little monkey. 

 School supply shopping for preschool. 

 Drinking a green smoothie under a table. 

 One of our favorite traditions: Kate painting a plate at the end of the summer. This is her third installment for her collection. 

We are soooooo sad to see summer go, but every year I am incredibly thankful for this time with the kids.