Summer's Over, So What!

The best part of returning to the routine of school? Weekend time becomes so much more meaningful and fun! This past weekend Steven headed to the City Museum with the oldest three kiddos. We had heard this museum was amazing, but definitely created for older children. We figured that Thatcher was cutting it close at the ripe age of five but wanted to give it a shot. A few fun filled hours passed with no injuries until they all headed down the 10 story slide, at which time poor Thatch hyperextended his finger. Pride wounded, and one hand cradling the other, he was returned home for a rest. Steven handed off his wrist bands so the girls and I could return for a bit more fun. As we entered the building the girls kept asking questions like, "do you think you're as small as Dad? If you are, then you'll fit." Or my favorite, "I know Dad can fit....are you certain you can?" Out loud I was laughing, but inside I was thinking, "are you kiddin' me....I haven't been enduring the past 8 intense and seriously committed weeks of P90x for nothing! I better fit!"
Our plan of a few more hours turned into seven to be exact. It was by far the best "kids" museum we have ever been to and obviously one where both parent and child can be easily entertained. At the end of the day even I was disappointed to leave and didn't do so until we had gathered all the info needed to buy a membership for the year. While older children did seem to maneuver easier, younger children were also having a fantastic time. Luckily Thatcher's finger is fully healed and we are all excited to return asap. Alright, Azure didn't sayshe was excited, but I can see it in her eyes.

Final And First

We enjoyed the final few days of a carefree, relaxing summer this past week and today entered the exciting, fun filled days of school. I loved elementary school and love that our kids do too. I of course miss them to pieces while their gone, however, if you really think about it I have determined that the unique qualities of both "seasons" is the very thing that makes them so great and special. Without one, the other would become boring and mundane.

To start things off the school held a "new student" scavenger hunt which gave them the opportunity to learn the layout of their new surroundings . A few days later they held an ice cream social for all students to meet their teachers and fellow classmates. Our kids had a fantastic experience at both activities and couldn't wait for the first day to arrive. This morning they jumped out of bed with great enthusiasm and headed off together - which I'm quite certain makes it 100 times easier to let them go. Luckily, the younger girls and I stayed busy with a check up, errands, and making our traditional "first day of school" treat. I won't deny that I checked the clock hourly in anticipation of their arrival home. I was hoping it was a fantastically successful day for each of them and luckily my hopes came true. They jumped off the bus with smiles all around and for the following hour I had the great pleasure of reliving their first day of school.

Zoo Yahoo

No matter where we move around this beautiful country the zoo is always one of our first and most favorite places to check out and become familiar with over the course of our stay. There are so many reasons to love the zoo. First, it's often free - or else comes at a very reasonable rate for a years pass. Second, it's an activity that offers excitement and exercise all in one package. Third, it's way easier to keep your eye on multiple children who are walking at a slow pace in front of you, verses a museum or store with numerous corners to turn and racks to hide in. Fourth and finally, did I mention it's often free? The St. Louis zoo has been nothing less than spectacular. We've had multiple outings already that were absolutely fantastic, and that's with temperatures reaching the 100's! That must be why they offer so many opportunities to get wet - and boy do our kids take them.

"Mom threw this one in mainly because I'm so darn cute!"

Swimming Success

In the past we have spent a large portion of our summer at various pools near our home. However, with temperatures being what they are and having a new born we decided to make this summer one for improving swimming skills (for Ryley and Kadyn) and learning to swim (for Thatcher and Haley). I did my homework and found a great facility with an indoor pool and private swim teachers. They receive a total of twelve lessons and after having completed just two I can't believe the changes and improvements they have each shown already. There is something exciting about watching your child develop an important skill. With four good swimmers we will definitely be able to hit the water parks in future summers. Now we just need to work on their height deficiency so they'll be allowed to enjoy the slides!

Nauvoo Pageant

We recently realized how close we are now living to Nauvoo, IL. For anyone not affiliated with our religion, this area holds significant meaning to our church's history. Each July they have a pageant that explains the many events which took place here. We were fully aware that with a six week old and two year old we weren't attending under the most convenient of circumstances, however, we also could not allow the opportunity to pass us by. On Saturday afternoon we headed up and decided to just make it a one day trip, knowing we can return a few months from now to enjoy the area when it's no longer crowded and busy. It was a wonderful experience for all of us but I believe Ryley and Kadyn enjoyed it the most. They are a perfect age not only to appreciated a musical but to understand some of our church's history and the bitter/sweet events that took place in that area nearly two hundred years ago. We are so grateful for the many individuals that made such great sacrifices for all those coming after them.

Fabulous Five

Thatcher turned the big five a few days ago. He planned a fantastic day that was fun for the whole family. We began at the Incredible Pizza Place where they played and ate to their hearts desire. Once home we made pizzas, opened presents, and had cake and ice cream. The girls came up with a great idea to buy five small gifts and planned a very impressive scavenger hunt with multiple clues just for Thatch. It turned out so great we've decided to make it a sibling tradition. Since he chose to have a family party he made out like a bandit in the presents department. The kids have spent the past six days playing non stop lego's and baseball. (Video below) Thatcher is so much fun to have in a home filled with girls. He brings spunk and excitement, a touch of mischief, and his smile can instantly melt your heart. Happy 5th Birthday. We love you pal!