Disneyland 2012

My mom decided to treat most of the family to a Disney get-a-away at Christmas.   I was very nervous about taking Seth there.  Seth did amazing.  He LOVED it!  His favorite rides were the tractor ride at Carsland, tea cups, and the carousels.   We found out that Mia likes speed.  She loved thunder mountain.  Aiden loved the train and autopia.  Skyler's favorite ride was space mountain and Radiator Springs ride.    I loved staying at the Grand Californian.  It was perfect for a quick trip home when Seth had enough.  He even watched a parade.  He loves hugging Jesse and Pluto.  Mia had a beautiful Cinderella dress on, and got asked by cast members for her autograph.  She was not shy to get up on stage and sign and dance, either.   I got the candy cane I wanted.  Seeing Disneyland through the eyes of your children is amazing. 

Baking buddies

Aiden and Mia have become quite the bakers this season.

November 2012

November was a hard month.  My dad passed away after a year long battle with pancreatic cancer.  This has been one of the hardest thing I have ever experienced.  I am thankful for all my family and friends support during this time and after.  We had a lot of sickness being passed around this month, as well.  The only good thing was getting to see my grandma, uncles and aunt from Philly.  I loved seeing them.  It can be years before we see each other, but as soon as I see them it is like we were never apart. 

Last day of preschool

I can't believe it is the last day of preschool.  Preschool has been such a positive experience for my kids.  I think God picked the perfect teacher for each of their personalities.  Seth's teachers were a true blessing.  Teacher Mel and Teacher Karen will forever be in our hearts.  It takes a special teacher to bring out the best in a child.  They gave Seth confidence in himself and in his surroundings. 

Aiden's teacher was perfect for him.  She had just the right balance of compassion and discipline in her class.  She helped challenged Aiden to try new things.  She instilled a love of learning in him.  He is completely ready for kindergarten! 

Ms. Nellie was perfect for Mia, as well.  Mia was very shy and scared of school.  Ms. Nellie was very patient with Mia and pushed her to try her best at everything.  Now she loves it!  She has gained so much confidence this past year.  She is ready for kindergarten, too! 

I can only hope that they have such great teachers next year!  I am so thankful for the teachers they had this past year.  I can only hope that I can be that special to some future students as I start my career in teaching next year. 

Morro Dunes

Aiden and Mia went with me to visit Grandma Jacki and Grandpa Emil.  We had a great time in Morro Bay for the day.  We spent the night in their new camper.  It is very nice.  They played their first game of Uno while camping.  They both won a hand. 

New love

Seth used to hate the outside and water.  Things have changed.  He LOVES being outside.  He LOVES playing in the water and he LOVES his dog, Molly.

Seth and his Molly - Dog dog

Seth loves his dog.  Although, she is still a pup and a little rambunctious, he loves to give her kisses.  He will circle her until she is still enough to give her a kiss.  He never kisses us, but will kiss her.  He even tries to break her free from her indoor crate.  I see them being friends for a long time.

Bowling Date

Went bowling with all three.  It was fun.  Although, Seth did cry a bit and Mia somehow dropped the ball and bit her lip.

How to hit a pinata

Aiden and Mia went to their friend's Ewen's birthday party.  They had a blast!