Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Thankful for Nieces and Nephews....

My niece, Cambridge, was a year old when Mark and I started dating. She was like my baby sister. She stayed at our neighbors while my sister worked and when I got home from school, I would go and get her and she would stay with us until my sis could get her. I loved it!! She was my little sidekick. Mark and I used to babysit her all the time. When my nephew, Austin, came along we did the exact same thing. After we got married and moved into our house, we immediately baby proofed because of Austin. And now, almost 10 years later the same babyproofing is still up;).

Because Mark and I were so involved with them, I think it helped us with parenting our own children. I don't feel like we were "typical" first time parents because we already had enough practice with our nieces and nephews. We were pretty laid back about many things. And I'm so thankful for that. I'm so thankful that my sisters trusted me enough to let me watch their kids because by them doing that, I was a better mommy to my own children. I don't get too worked up over stuff and we just have a very laid back parenting style. Now, we make our kids mind and we do have some what a schedule but we for the most part just go with the flow and you know, I'm okay with that.

So thank you to my sister's for letting me have your kids. And for all those aunts and uncles that don't have your own kids yet, get your nieces and nephews. Take care of them for a while because in the end, that practice is going to help you with your own children. Plus, with nieces and nephews, you can give them back to their parents:)!!!!!

Friday, September 9, 2011

The Last First Day...

Tuesday, Claire had her last first day of preschool. That just doesn't seem possible. I remember taking her the very first day of preschool and remember telling her teachers that we were working on potty training and now she's gearing up for kindergarten!! She was so excited to finally be going to school like Lauren. She was up early and picked out one of her most favorite outfits to wear!! She walked right in to school and just waved good-bye. I was okay this time. I know next year when I walk her on that first day, I will be a big ole fat mess of tears!! Gotta enjoy this last year!!

Lauren is still doing great in school. We normally have a few problems the first couple of weeks getting adjusted to the routine of going back but this year, we haven't had any problems whatsoever!!! I'm ecstatic!! She has had great behavior and really seems to be enjoying her class. Right now, her class is learning all about embryos, incubation and humidity, they have baby chicks growing!! She is also going to sign up for the art club and hopefully will make it in. The art teacher gets to choose the students so we are keeping our fingers crossed. I asked Lauren why did she want to be in the art club and her reply was, "Because I'm good at art." Gotta love the confidence!!

Brooke is still good, growing like a weed. She did a real laugh for the first time on Wednesday night. I loved it!! She is getting such a personality and becoming more social. In a couple of weeks we get to start rice cereal. That should be fun!!

The big girls are having a sleepover with their Mawmaw tonight. They are both so excited. They haven't done that in a while. Mark and I are going to have a date night with Brooke. Should be fun for all!!

Happy Friday everyone!!

ps..I'll have pics of Claire on her first day soon!