May I Come Out, Please

I took my son to buy a present for a party he is going to. My two-year old son, Daniel, went with us and pitched a fit when we left because he wanted to stay and look at the "Cars" toys. He was screaming his head off in the car. I told him if he didn't stop crying right now, he was going to his room when we got home. He immediately stopped crying. When we got home, I was busy talking to my wife and saw Daniel walking up the stairs. I turn to wrap the present when I hear Daniel from his room, "May I come out, please?" If only all of our children were so compliant.

4th of July

Our community has an annual 4th of July parade. The children love it because of the soldiers, police, firefighters, and candy. Yes, most of the community floats toss candy to the children as they pass. We have found a prime spot by my parents' old house that includes plenty of shade and is at the beginning of the parade route where the people on the floats are still tossing lots of candy!

Here is Daniel applauding the beginning of the parade.


The boys waving at the parade participants.
In the evening, a neighbor puts on a very impressive fire works show. Here are the boys in prime viewing position.

And here is one of the displays.

Misery loves company

Daniel always seems so concerned about his brother's well being. Often, as here with James, when one of his brothers is put in time out, he will go and sit with him to keep him company.

Recital

Brandon has been taking violin lessons. Last week he had his first recital. I was truly impressed by how well he plays. He really enjoys it which always makes it easier. The recital inspired James to request lessons also. We may wait a few years for him to mature a little.

Allison's first bath

Allison had her first bath and handled it very well.
and no matter how well a baby takes the first bath, they always seem relieved when it is over and they are wrapped in a warm towel.

Cars, Cars, Cars

Daniel is crazy about cars. He especially likes the cars from the Disney movie "Cars". It seems odd that each of our children has liked a different mode of transportation. Brandon was crazy about airplanes. James was crazy about trains.

Daniel's breakfast of choice

Daniel's room decorations

Home school substitue teacher

With the arrival of our new daughter I was able to help with some of the home school activities. We did not do a lot of standard lessons, treating the birth as our "Spring Break". We did continue our attendance at the enrichment center which offers classes that my wife and I do not feel qualified or have the resources to teach. On Monday I also was able to take the boys to a home school support group Easter Egg hunt. I know my involvement this week was essential the fluff, the easy activities. What I did notice was how rewarding home schooling is. We enjoy our children and enjoy watching them grow in so many ways. To be able to have this enjoyment in the school environment when they are learning so much is amazing. Additionally, the support systems that are available bringing like minded parents together to share and help each other make the experience that much more wonderful.

Here are some pictures of the Easter Egg Hunt