last of the graduation posts

A few more of the first day of school (before) vs. the last day of school (after) pictures.

∆∆∆ before ∆∆∆

                                                                       ∆∆∆ after ∆∆∆
   I think they were as ready for summer as I was. Well, almost. What is it about that morning dash of lunches and loading up that zaps me so much? Anyhow, I am currently enjoying my freedom to lounge about in sweat pants and serve the children cereal for dinner.

we made it

This post is tricky. Kindergarten was the best of times. It was the worst of times, too. So I am going to rip it off real quick like a bandaid. Collin made it. He is a champ. And his big drama Mama made it. The only tears shed on graduation day were Dad's, realizing how this life zooms by so quick.

We celebrated with Red Lobster because "you get to share food!" and "it's attached to a beach!" according to Collin. (who was only a wee bit dissappointed when we arrived at the real Red Lobster)

strawberry pickin'

 This has so far been the summer of "Please don't kill you brother today!" No kidding. It will be a success if I just keep them all alive and not seriously injured this summer. We went off for some family fun a couple Saturdays ago. Mostly I just hoped their behavior would be better in public. Wrong. But it made for some cute pictures for the blog.

The evolution of a group photo. Parker was the photographer because he was not having any fun. I guess I shouldn't be too bummed about a 5 out of 6 success rate.

We went on to lunch at Crockett's, one of Guy Fieri's Diner's Drive-ins, and Dives. Stopped in a See's Candies for a treat and wrapped things up watching The Croods. (where Parker FINALLY started to have fun)
Sidenote: I had such ridiculously low expectations for that movie (it has Nic Cage in it) but I could not recommend it enough. It is funny and has a wonderful message about family.

Kaleb's Sky City Experience

This lil' nugget graduated from fifth grade.

Around here, graduating from elementary school is a big deal. So we did it up for our charming Kaleb the other night. A fancy dinner atop the Space Needle on one of the nicest days of the year. The food was delicious, the view was spectacular, and Kaleb was such a fun date. 

Congrats to you, our drama major in the making ;)

lost post: low tide at Alki Beach

  My parents were in town for Memorial Day weekend. Usually we just keep them locked up at home. Fixing stuff around the house and catering to our demanding children ;)

  This time we ventured out to the beach at low tide. We had promised this type of outing to Kaleb over two years ago... better late than never? Justin met us there and taught the boys how to skimboard.

  It's a sweet life when family and friends are ready and willing to jump in and engage the boys. Thanks guys for making memories!

what I'll remember

  These pics are Parker's first and last day of 7th grade. They really sum thing up for me. That first day you're all geeked out, new clothes, new gear. You will do ridiculous poses for your mom because you think it will be over sooner if you cooperate.

  Then there is the last day. When you woke up late, threw on the shirt at the top of the laundry pile and your mom only has the time/patience/sanity for one picture.

  But what I'll remember from Parker's seventh grade year is that it was the year he grew taller than his Mama.

*dramatic pause*

  I am a fairly tall woman at 5'9, so I thought I would have a wee bit longer. Looking him in the eye has been surreal. It really is true, you will always think of them as wee babes, never the hulking, moody teen that asks "What's for dinner, Mom?" (in an increasingly deeper voice!)

 Well done, Parker. On surviving what could be argued as the most awkward year of anyone's life. For your excellence in school, testing better than 11th graders. And continuing to be "a pleasure to have in class."