Trial Run for Trike-a-Thon

Preschool is having a Trike-a-Thon, educating kids on helmet use and trike/bike safety. They are trying to raise money for playground equipment, and a portion goes to purchasing helmets for kids in Clark County who can't afford them. Evan really struggled with wearing his helmet, so Ryan and I decided to do a "practice" contest with Evan. From the looks of these pictures, he'll do a great job on Thursday! Cross your fingers....

Rice NW Museum of Rocks and Minerals

Evan hugging a giant Thunderegg

The Rainbow Room

A room in the museum

Sitting on the "friendship" hearth.


This was Ryan's special thing he wanted to take Evan to. He heard about it from our friends Ken and Vicki, and knew that Evan would totally be "into" it. We drove out to Hillsboro to meet Dad and Barbara for lunch, then all of us went to the museum. It was an old house, now converted into a giant museum (over 7000SF) for rocks, minerals, petrified wood, etc. It was really fascinating and beautiful! Evan LOVED it - and all kids get to play in the "rock pile" at the end, and choose a rock as a keepsake. There was also a dinosaur fossil section (very popular with Evan) that included Hadrosaurus eggs. I think his favorite room was the "Rainbow Room", where the lights turn off and all of the rocks GLOW in these beautiful colors! Nature is so amazing.....

Rainy Day Fun

Twin xylophone players
The train set is one of his favorites...
First time in the clay room
Look at my twins!


Another fun day at the Children's Museum. This time, we tried the clay room - Evan loved it! His all-time favorites are: the water room, the dig pit (where he always seems to behave badly) and the new Butterfly Bistro. They have been renovating the cafe area, and it looks like a totally posh Whole Foods! The pretend foods are brand new, and they feel like real fruit. Of course, the boys fell asleep on the ride home. I left them in the car after parking in the garage. Hee hee!

A New Chapter

Today was the second day of preschool - a full 2.5 hours. I was so excited to have some time to myself, I only accomplished one thing! I thoroughly cleaned, organized and de-cluttered my kitchen countertop and junk drawer!
I got to turn on the new Rihanna CD (I love a little hip-hop), and actually concentrate on what I was doing. As I was busily organizing, I had this awesome feeling of "Gosh, I'm going to have this time for myself twice a week, EVERY week! Imagine all the things I can get done!" I made a couple of mental lists and goals - and tomorrow I will write them down. Maybe it was the cooler, darker weather, but I really love Fall. When kids go back to school and the weather changes, it just signifies mounds of CHANGES. And as much as I can be resistant and afraid of change, I also love it. It keeps things new, and my mind sharp (well, as sharp as it can be). So, as of tonight, I look forward to breaking out the sweaters and umbrellas, and the scent of burning leaves. I can't wait to hear the far-off sound of the high school band playing at football games. And WOW - I sure love that my son is in a social, learning environment and becoming more independent of me! (Of course, I am all the more huggy-kissy-smelling him when I pick him up)

The Best Birthday Gift

Birthdays now are no big deal to me. I've already hit the big 3-0 milestone, so they're just a great reason to get a free meal somewhere. (We did go to Todai for lunch) BUT - today I realized something. I have made such wonderful friends! Thank you Julie - for making those deliciously messy cupcakes, and the beautiful bouquet of flowers! Thank you Sheri - for the "spa indulgence" bathtub goody! Thank you Theresa - for your adorable, handmade card! Thank you Jeri - for sharing your stories with me, and letting my son hug your kids! :)

Most of all, I am thankful to have such fun, caring, understanding friends. I love spending time with you guys, getting to know each of you better, and ranting and raving about our children together. ;) YOU are the best birthday gift I could ask for!

Melanie

First Day of Preschool!

Evan started preschool at St. Andrew Christian Preschool. I am so proud of him! He is in the "Blue Classroom" with teachers Kelly and Dee Dee. He cried at first, but after class, teacher Kelly said "he did fine." He is very proud of his Diego backpack, and he loves the water table. I made him a special breakfast in honor of his first day of school. The video shows him talking to his Grandma about his first day.

Yay Evan!!

Grandma's 100th Birthday

Last week was a monumental week, celebrating my Grandma's 100th Birthday! Friday night, we had a smaller family potluck, then Sunday was the big bash at Bethany Baptist Church. There was a video/slide presentation narrated by my cousin Karla, and Energizer Bunnies everywhere for decoration! The best part was family - and the great-grandkids singing "Jesus Loves Me". Evan was so exhausted from the weekend of festivities, he fell asleep on the floor! My friend Sandy was so gracious to spend HER birthday taking photographs for my family and me. Here are some pictures from my camera....