Last Day of School

Today was the last day of school.  The kids were excited, a little sad and a little unsure of how to kick of the fun.  So I decided it would be great to go and do a photo shoot at an old abandoned house.  I have been wanting to take them there for awhile but just haven't been able to find the time.

Well the kids were thrilled to go (not really) and I had to bribe them.  We first went to Applebees for lunch and had an enjoyable time reminiscing about the year.  Then it was off to take the pictures.  Of course, they still weren't thrilled, but after an offered bribe of shakes from JCWs they complied.

I was pretty pleased with the outcome of the photos in spite of the terrible, windy, cloudy weather and mismatched clothes.  The kids don't realize how lucky they are to be able to have such nice quality photos (if I do say so myself).  Maybe someday they will appreciate it.  I have really started to master my camera and maximize the many options that is has available to use.  Plus I received some good help and tips from Katie Price, a lady in our ward, that takes excellent photos.  I am feeling pretty good about my skills.  Now if I could just have willing models :)

Anyway, it was a nice day and the kids loved their huge shakes.  Afterwards we went and visited Grandpa's new kitten which is so exciting in their opinion. 

I enjoyed this day with my children and I hope that it is a glimpse of things to come this summer.  I anticipate having a lot of fun going to new places and doing fun and creative activities.  I value this time with my children and realize that it won't last forever.  As much as I love school, I am looking forward to summer. 

Kindergarten Graduation

Well it is official now.  I am no longer the mother of a baby, toddler or preschooler for that matter.  My dear youngest daughter graduated from Kindergarten today.  This year just flew by like no other and it makes me feel a little sentimental realizing that Brianna is growing up and my life is changing so much.

Mrs. Ball held a lovely program and graduation ceremony.  The kids sang songs, acted out nursery rhymes and books, and even danced.  There was a nice video montage at the end that recapped a years worth of activities.  Mrs. Ball presented them with their diplomas, a butterfly net and many other treasures and memorabilia.  Brianna had an amazing year and just loved learning and school in general.  She is actually a little sad to see it end.  I concur with those sentiments.

Ryan's Acting Debut

Today Ryan performed in a readers theatre in his class.  His group acted out an excerpt from the movie Zathura.  Ryan was a robot and a guy from the future.  He did a great job and I was pleasantly surprised by how much he got into it.  He is naturally so mild-natured and calm that I didn't realize that he would enjoy being in front of people as the persona of something else. 

He has had an extremely successful year and Mrs. Zito has pushed him to dig inside himself and find new hidden strengths and interests.  He has enjoyed this school year very much and I feel has learned a lot.

Butterfly Parade

 

Butterflies invaded Mrs. Ball's Kindergarten class today and had a parade around the halls.  They were beautiful as they fluttered from class to class in search of flowers.  Their long tongues came out and tasted the sweet necter they found on the way.

Then the whole class of butterflies released their friends that they had observed from caterpillar to chrysalis to new butterflies.  It was a super fun day at Sage Hills Elementary

Dancing Debut

Brianna had her end of the year dance recital at Miss Cortnie's house.  It was neat to see Brianna interpret the music and perform her own dance moves.  She has a vivid imigination and it is certainly manifested in her dancing.  She loves her class and especially enjoys being with Brianna Wheeler and Jessica Teerlink.  They are such cute girls and good friends.  I don't know if Brianna has a future in dance, but for now she is absolutely loving it and that is enough.