Proud Mommy...

My little boy is hitting many milestones quickly…and in a little over a month, he will also hold a whole handful of fingers as he turns 5! Really!? Where has that time gone? It honestly brings tears to my eyes when I think about time, and kids, and our lives…and how it is so easy to wish away time to get to another- but with life- we are wishing away those precious moments…and I want them back! Every sleepless night, scratch or bruise, tears of joy or of frustration- through all of these moments he was growing, he was transforming from this little baby, this little boy- that fit perfectly within my arms- to a boy that tests my strength when he asks to be carried to bed every night. He will ALWAYS fit perfectly in my arms, don't get me wrong- just in a different way.

The other day, Monday, Kai lost his first tooth. Wiggly for about a week, Monday morning was the day my little boy showed a little fear in the unknown as I removed the hanging tooth from his mouth, then seconds later- complete elation as he realized the tooth fairy would be making a visit tonight- and making sure to ask me whether the Tooth Fairy was real. The fact there was a question there- although he already knew the answer of yes- was even a little sad for me as hesitation and doubt seems to start so young.

Wednesday was Aunti Bully Day- and they celebrated it at the kids preschool…they put some quotes together and a group shot of all the kids in pink- Kai's quote really touched me- "Will you be my friend." It pretty much sums up the heart of this little boy. I am proud.

Kai gets major growing pains in his legs. I feel for him deeply. I remember getting these as a girl- i recall being older though- i remember having to have my ankles rubbed until i would fall asleep: and now, I rub his legs until he falls back to sleep. Growing pains- again, he isn't that little boy anymore.

He jokes with me often that he is bigger than I am- we both know its a joke- for now. I know, that soon enough, there will be no joke in that. 

Seeing Kai fill the roles in the lives of many is heart warming. He is an amazing son. His compassion, love, curiosity and tenacity for life always astounds me- and he always keeps us on our toes. He has so much love for his sisters. Always playing, always laughing, always loving. He has no fear of showing his affection and will tell you at any given moment how much he loves you- or, he will simply just show you, coming over for a hug or kiss…or both <3

kai waking t from her nap. all hugs!

I just had to take a moment tonight to express my love, gratitude and amazement for my little man. He teaches me something new about himself, life, love or myself..daily.

Take a moment and live through the eyes of children. I really believe you will learn more than you ever thought possible…

Kai I love you. I cannot believe you are going to be 5 soon. Where have these years gone?

I would like a rewind button to re-live the days a little slower…to learn a little more.

But I suppose, we have been doing a pretty good job- because you are one amazing boy.

I love you buddy.

xoxo Mom

Wishing on a Rock...

Today at school the kids went on an adventure to the beach. They read a little story, then went in search for wishing rocks.

Had to share cause I thought it was too cute not to.

Hockey on Lock-out!??...

Who says hockey is on lock out!? Kai sure doesn't seem to think so!
Yes he loves the Canucks...but he wont miss out on his ice time!

Our little man started his hockey lessons yesterday. Cookie Monsters its called! Aside from maybe 4 lessons last October/November, he has never been on skates...and has certainly not held a stick, on ice, dressed in all the gear.

He shocked me!

Arriving at the rink 20 minutes early so i could dress him, yes it seriously takes that long, we started the process.  Little boys Bauer undies with built in jock strap...hilarious...shoulder pads, neck cover, pants, jersey, helmet, skates...the list is long! And not to forget the bag to hold it all in, it is literally the size of him; thankfully on wheels so he can drag it himself.

Once geared it was ice time...
the first few steps were a little rough. he was actually spending more time on his butt...I was actually a little nervous the coach was going to tell me he wasn't ready. But within minutes, the coach taught the kids how to stand up quickly on the ice...and after that his confidence grew and his minutes on his feet were even longer than those on him bum!

He did such a great job, and even scored a goal (on an empty net...hey you gotta start somewhere)!

Look out Kesler...there's another 'K' coming to the rink...

New Beginnings...

Summer was amazing...but I was longing for fall and routine on some days that seemed to drag on endlessly with cranky kids and tired mom.

Yesterday was the day. The start of preschool for the kids! Kai into second year, and Si's first year...both in the same classroom with the same schedule.
I know I have probably said this in the past, but I think we have the best preschool out there! The kids are always raring to go there. They have the best times, amazing adventures, and are outdoors two of the four hours RAIN or SHINE. And yes, did you notice, 4 HOURS! Our preschool has it down right. The kids go Monday thru Thursday from 9-1.
With kindergarten now full days, I see this as even more beneficial these days as the kids are already almost there in time frame opposed to the 2 hours twice a week. Not only will those hours not help integrate the kids as seamlessly...but how does that limited time frame help the parent out!?
I am just stating my personal thoughts...

Anyways, as I mentioned yesterday was the start of the kids school year. I was very excited to see the day come...
Yet, once I dropped the kids off and they both walked in to their class with smiles on their face and no tears...I was the one that found a few tears.
It was a big day. Kai's last year in preschool. Si's first year of preschool ever! and the only year they will share a "grade."
When i finally slowed down and thought about this, as i walked away from their school, i couldn't help but feel a little...sad.

Time, again you are going to fast.
 

The Aftermath...

If there were no schools to take the children away from home part of the time, the insane asylums would be filled with mothers.  ~Edgar W. Howe

Labor Day is a glorious holiday because your child will be going back to school the next day.  It would have been called Independence Day, but that name was already taken.  ~Bill Dodds

Summer Growth...

Our kids really did some growing this summer. It seems like sometimes, they grow in little pieces...inch by inch... and then there are other times where you cant possibly slow them down. This summer was one of those time periods. Not only did they grow in height, as swim suits became too small and new shoes were needed a few times over, they simply put, just...grew up!

Kai and Si are so full of energy. From dawn till dark they run, or should I say ride, in circles without a tired blink of an eye. They want to take in every second of the day, in fear they may miss out on something.

Kai went to a couple bike camps this summer: One being a trail camp where they spent the better of the days at the BMX bike park.  Ripping down dirt hills and flying over jumps makes for one un-nerved mother...but he does it with a constant smile on his face and cannot seem to get enough! Where did this 4 year old come from! Just 5 months ago he was transitioning from his run bike to pedals, which he did in a matter of hours...no training wheels. To a little boy whom enjoys flying through the air leaving many in his dust trail...mom included.

His confidence is one that has really developed this summer. Knowing what he wants and asking for it, or maybe just going and doing it...we have seen Kai grow-up before our vary eyes.

Si...well where to start. She is on that is a constant surprise. Many find it hard to believe so much can come out of someone so little. She is constantly talking...always moving...and rarely listening. She marches to her own beat and is starting PRE-SCHOOL this year. Hard to believe our little girl is almost 3!
Si will be attending preschool with Kai this year...four hours a day, four days a week. To some, they find it hard to believe this little girl can muster the energy and maybe social strength, to excel at this...those people clearly do not know her. But to be sure, I tested her out at a Dance Camp this summer. 4 hours a day for 4 days. She went with ease and excitement. Not a tear, not a complaint...actually demanding to go and excited to play with her new found friends. She loved it.
I might also add, she came home completely potty trained.

Si has been a roller coaster to potty train. I have to admit it has been a combination of her and I. Me, putting the diaper on for convenience, especially when out; and for her, a comfort. She has changed her own diapers for at least 6 months. Runs to the toilet when she is in the mood and calls for help when she is ready...but dance camp finished the process! With her being the youngest in the class, and the other girls diaper-less, Si rose to the occasion, keeping her pull up dry and the potty flushing! Success! After the week...we have not looked back. No diapers in sight and a big girl ready to take on preschool.

Two down, one to go in the diaper department.

And while i reminisce and talk development...this summer T has grown leaps and bounds~

From crawls in June to near walks this week. To waving hello and goodbye to testing the sounds of "bu-bye." Our baby is setting new milestones, and with near tears i want her to slow down!

Summer was filled lots of great memories, family adventures, friend times, laughs and lots of love.
A few images captured from our summer :)

The Lake

They really do love each other

Boat jumping

Ry and Kai fishing

Swimming off the grid

Friend Fun at the Cabin!

Friend Fun at the Cabin!

Friend Fun at the Cabin!

7 kids...3 moms...we may have been a little crazy ;)

Until Next Year! (Kai at dusk)

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And the above pretty much sums up our summer and my life lately...considering I wrote that 10 days ago and have yet to post it. Adding the photos to it today, and posting momentarily! We have new milestones already happening! Time to get back to the blog...my time and our memory keeper!

Another Year...4 years old!

One Month....That is how long it has been since I have found the time to sit here and write. I have been longing to do this and am so glad today...i am MAKING the time.
I have felt deprived of this ability; I have let other things take priority...and quite frankly, I have been a little exhausted lately. April is almost over, and it was an amazing, yet whirlwind of a month.

My first post back from hiatus is designated to our little man and his 4th birthday, April 7th.

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Kai,

It is hard for me to believe that our little boy, our first born, is already 4 years old today. Where has the time gone. It feels like all we have to do is blink and the years pass. You have grown so much, both physically and emotionally. I am so proud of who you are and all that you are becoming. You are such a compassionate and loving little boy. You have so much energy and an amazing zest for life. You take in things so quickly; learn fast; and the way you are with your sisters, so patient and loving...so protective and caring...they are so lucky to have a big brother like you. I am so lucky to have you for a son. You amaze me daily....and yes, you tire me daily too ;) You are one busy little man that wants to learn and move (fast!) always.

I love you with all my heart.
Happy 4th Birthday Kai!

Love,
Mom
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Here are a few pictures from Kai's big day. This year, we decided a peddle bike would be his birthday gift...no training wheels. He went from his run bike to his big boy bike in 1 DAY!! Amazing. No training wheels. No help for balance from Mom and Dad. He amazed us!