{First Day of Preschool}

This week we had our last day of "first days" for this school year.  Naomi started preschool.  I didn't know if I should shout for joy or cry.  I think I did a little bit of both.  I'm looking forward to ten hours of week to get a few things done and be able to go to the store by myself, but man, it's so quiet!  I've had 14+ years of little ones with me everyday.  Naomi is my little buddy and the thought of her going all day to kindergarten next year just leaves me with an emptiness inside.  

Naomi and her teacher, Mrs. Penny.  Naomi was pretty hesitant to go to preschool, but as soon as we got there, she was so excited and keeps telling me she wants to go everyday.

When I came to pick her up, they were singing a song and Naomi was participating.  The tall blonde girl next to her has already become her friend.  They are the teacher's helpers and love to play together.  The older kids are all settled into their classes now and we seem to be off to a good year.  Expecting great things!

{First Day of Seminary}

Aaron was asked two weeks ago to teach an early morning religion class (aka seminary)  for high school age kids that meets when school is in session.  He has been working hard the last two weeks getting everything ready.  He has a classroom set up in our basement for 20 students.  

The kids all started school on Monday and early morning seminary began Tuesday at 6 am.  It's been an adjustment for us because we have never been good about getting to bed early.  Now that we have to get up at 5 am, we have to start doing better.  There goes our time to work on projects after the kids are in bed.

I don't think Justin minds having his Dad teach his class because it means he can roll out of bed at 5:30 and be to class on time (he also likes spending time with Aaron).  We always love having the youth over at our house and with a separate entrance to our basement, it really isn't disturbing our kids at all.  

{First Day of School}

I don't know where our summer went, but our kids started back to school today.  What a whirlwind of a summer!  We had lots of fun, lots of swimming, lots of fun,  lots of camps, and lots of rain.  Ready or not, school is back in session and this year we have our first high schooler! 

Here are a few individual shots of the kiddos.  Although they wouldn't ever admit it (especially Justin), they were a little excited to go back.  Justin thought his first day of high school was pretty awesome and Madelyn loves her new teacher.  Overall, I'd say we're off to a good start!