She's a 5th Grader

CHARLI CHARLL CHARLI CHAMPION CHARLI 5th grade!!! Gymnastics, Soccer, Girl Scouts, Choir, Origami club, CLASS REPRESENTATIVE. Did I miss anything? You are rocking all of it! This year so far you have moved up to 6th grade Math, you ran for CLASS representative and WON, along with Aiden. " Be a smartie, vote for CHARLI!" You are continued your Charli Collections brand which includes purses, wallets, tissue holders, bags. You are really going to be a big deal someday, I mean you already are but everyone else will continue to figure it out world wide. I continue to watch you develop a soccer player, you were the best player on the field this past weekend. I saw things in you that would put you on a Varsity team now. Way to go! This weekend you have a tournament which your team has a chance to bring home some hardware! Go SOCKERS! Gymnastics Competition season is only a few weeks away. I can't believe that it was a year ago that you first competed and qualified for State in your first meet. Then to be 8th overall in the State, I can't wait to see what this year will bring. I am watching you become such a kind little girl. I am stating to see physical changes in you that remind me so much of me. Your long blond hair, your strong physique, you little zitties on your face, and of course those teeth that contiue to make thier way in. I have watched all your fashionista outfits change more in to tomboy chic. I can see how shy you are and just how much of a creative perfectionist you are becoming, questioning everything you do for approval. You don't need any one's approval you just need to be you and do YOUR best, whatever that means. You are so loved and looked up to by Danica and AJ, you were meant to be the OLDEST, your patience should be commended. Danica does try to copy you in so many ways but you could not be more different from one another. AJ definitely favors you, don't tell Danica...but that makes sense because all she does is bother him! I can't believe that you work so hard every day to no complaint. Of course there are days where you don't want to go, but you go without a struggle. I wonder what goes on in your little mind. You are so independent and driven, I wonder how you juggle it all. There is always a smile on your face...excpet when you are hangry and boy that is not a good thing to witness. Little things make you happy and you love to talk. Not as much as Danica but you love to talk. Half the time I am not sure what you are talking about or why you are telling me what you are telling me, but it lets your kind personality shine and gives you the spotlight brom Danica and AJ even for that short time. You are quiet, silly, shy, smart, strong, independent, easily likeable, fierce, driven, loveable, and so much more. We went to Colorado for a wedding this past weekend and I know my favorite part of the trip was when you came to hold my hand at the Cheyenne Zoo. It was one of the most amazing experiences and sharing it with you put it over the top. I am so blessed to have you as my daughter and my friend. You are so honest with me and I appreciate it. I am a tough person to deal with and you handle me with care. You always blow me kisses and kiss me on the forehead. You are a very nuturing person and I love how much you absorb what goes on around you. I know you are still figuring your place which is the greatest part of life's journey. I have all the confidence in the world you will always land on top which for a MOM is the greatest feeling in the world. I want to give you all the tools you need and watch you run with it. I couldn't in my wildest dreams think of doing a flip on a beam or off of bars. I remember you wanting to quit gymnastics- " I don't want to jump to the pit bar, it's too far..." and look at you now. I will not let you quit, as long as you love what you do and the butterflies keep showing up. I love you Charli more than you will ever know, even more than I know. I hope you stay 10 forever, even when you act like a teenager... I will love you always and forever. I am so proud of you and so excited for each new day!

2022 End of 4th Grade Update

I mean how could it be that you are 10?! I don't ever want you to leave, like really I don't ever want you to leave the bubble I have you in. When they say time goes by so fast I have realized this every day that is why I always want to be with you guys. You are such a blessing. From the day you were born you have been an incredible human. Every day you get older this only rings more true. 4th grade has continued a pattern of almost perfection. Your grades are all A's. Your Cogat score was 97% national ranking in Math. You were the leading scorer on your club soccer team- playing in a boy's league. You improved each gymanstics meet on your overall scores and finished 5th on beam, 6th on floor, 7th on bars and 8th All-Around in your first Illinois State Meet. I really don't know if a Mom could be more proud. You are a Girl Scout, you give back to others. You have the kindest heart and so many different friends. For your birthday you had 20 girls over for a sleepunder. You had the girls pick between 3 movies: Sandlot, Cheaper by the Dozen, and Enchanted. You invited everyone from your class so that no one was left out and you have an individual friendship will all of them. How great is that? I really am so proud of you, even as hormones start to take over you still LOVE me and want to spend time with me and tell me everything. I will leave those personal things out of this blog, but we definitely have an open relationship and I hope you always know I am hear to listen and talk about anything...and to make sure your put on pitty juice! I can't believe that you started the year with one "boyfriend" and ending the year with another. I sure do like the boy's you pick, I am thinking Danica will be going for more of the bad boys. OH BOY! Your days are filled with things to do. MWF Gymnastics, T/R Soccer, weekends games or meets. Days are filled with school and homework. You have completed one Math assignment almost every day this entire year...it pays off as all tests have been an A+. You set a goal of perfection and you met it. Your Math brain is amazing. That must translate to how awesome you can braid hair. I can't even believe how you taught yourself to do that. You also are writing songs, " I was driving down the road in the middle of Texas, when I saw you standing there." There are so many things you can do that I don't even know what your future holds. Well I do know it has a clarinet in it, even though I am rooting for the drums :) Your long blonde hair, blue eyes, not an ounce of fat on you, crooked teeth, red nose, adorable amazing person. Your creativity is beyond imagination. Your room is full of pictures you made, pillows you made, blankets, you made, medal and certificates you achieved. From a Golden Paw at school to first place on beam and floor. You keep setting goals and reaching goals and you smile the entire time you do it. You have learned to presevere.... and that the biggest challenge is to just show up. We will always have our little secret of how we got to the State meet in Bourbanaiss when I went the worng way. BUT WE MADE IT! Next stop your placement meeting today! I look forward to you finishing the last month of school post-pandemic, no mask, huge smile ready to take on 5th grade. You are an amazing sister, you own that role. You were meant to be the first born. I appreciate all your help, your kindness, your softness, and I love when you blow double kisses not matter where you go; mask on or mask off. I love that you LOVE karate kid and Cobra Kai. I love that I see you as YOU, you are your own little person who I am so very proud of and I love with all my heart. Hugging you makes my heart full. Here's to 10 years together Charli! Keep it Rockin! Poonie rocka ruuda , Judy Hops, Luli Lu xoxoxo I forgot to mention one thing about Easter. We saw 2 bunnies for pictures one out and about and one Easter bunny our house. You, Danica, and AJ wore your ears out to eat; it was awesome. However, a girl at school told you the bunny is not real and that her Mom is the bunny. You told her,"Well that is not true my Mom can't be the bunny we got Birkenstocks for Easter and My mom hates those!" Thank you for being you!

10.5.21 Update School and Sports!

I want to make a quick update on what has been going on with 4th grade, Sockers, and Signature.... and Girl Scouts. Two math tests and an A+ on BOTH. You tried to trick me that you got one wrong.... and you got me both times. We have talked about you checking your answers twice by putting a check mark next to them once you have done this, I think it is a great strategy. I have told Danica to do the same, we will see if she produces the same results. School is really going well, mask and all. I am very proud of you. Your current book selections have been about gymnastics and soccer so I guess that is par for the course. You do a great job doing your hair each morning, but we really need to keep brushing our teeth and taking care of our pitties and face. We are a changing and we need to take the necessary steps to stay clean everywhere and looking our best. When you feel good you look good and vice versa and then you do your BEST! Sockers is going SOOOO well. 1 goal in the first game with the club on a PK, a hat trick, 1 goal 1 assist, 2 goals 1 assist this past weekend and did I mention before league play is against boys, so even better. I told you to keep a soccer journal to track this... otherwise you will have to go off Mom's memory. I think in the spring you led the house soccer league with 14 total goals....15 if we include the penalty kick in the championship when the game went to PK's. Sunday you wore the captain band so that was really exciting! Afterthe game Coach Ivan asked, "Did you get your soccer skills from Mom or Dad?" You said, "Mom." During the game he asked, "Who is your coach?" and you replied, him-- then he asked, " who do you listen to, me or your mom?" you replied, " My Mom." Oh how I love you. In real life that means Mommy has to go upstairs or learn to zip it while you play. I can coach you when we are home. OK I promise to try my best to zip it! I only want the best for you and being a coach my whole life sometimes it is hard to shut that off, but it is better I learn to now, or I am going to end up coaching again. LET'S GO 21! Well, you are a level 5 gymnast and your first meet is weeks away. OMG! weeks away. You came home for the first time after practice the other day and you said it was "not good." Coach Matt had a clipboard and was "watching you" and it threw you for a complete loop. It made you so nervous. I had to explain that he is always watching you and always coming up with scores in his head with or without his clipboard. That is his job. I then said why don't you picture everyone in their underwear when you get nervous. You did this at the next practice, and guess what, you told me it WORKS!!! You did such a better job and they even had your perform a routine in front of the club. I feel your first medals of a long line of them are on the horizon! I am so excited for you no matter how you do. I PROMISE Dad and I, Danica, and AJ will always be your biggest fans. CHAMPION CHARLI CHAMPION CHARLI... To Be Continued....

Pandemic Year and a brand new school year!

What, where has the time gone? Since the last time I updated it has been almost a year and a crazy one to say the least. You started the 2020-2021 school year from home learning remotely from your room, ended the school year (3rd grade) from school wearing a mask...and now all of a sudden you are in 4th grade wearing a mask and going in to school with a brand new teacher. PHEW! Did I get that right???? Today is your first day of 4th grade. Now I need to back up and tell you how we got here. Well, as I mentioned before we are still going through a global pandemic of Covid-19. Vaccines have been created, but we are still fighting to keep people healthy and safe. Daddy and I both got Covid and were quite sick, you and Danica both were tested and were negtive. Dad and I wore masks in the house and kept ourselves away from you guys as much as we could to keep you safe. Since that we have both been vaccinated but there is a variant and people vaccinated are still able to get and spread Covid. I sure hope that we can beat this and fast, until then we are doing what we are told and wearing our masks to keep ourselves and other safe. It is carzy to think of all we did when we really couldn't do anything. The last normal day of your life was your birthday party on 3.14.20 then the world changed. You never went back to school that year. All your learning was done at home. Dad and I never went back to school for the next school year either. I went back from Apri 16th 2021 to the end of the year. You and Danica started the 2020-2021 school year from zoom in your room, went back to school, back to zoom, and thne finished safely back at school. But school does not look the same. It isn't just that we wear masks, but we had to socially distance 6 feet from each other. All desks are apart from each other, recess and PE we had to stay away from each other, even lunch. A lot of people were getting sick from not seeing other people and human touch. Luckily we were able to be with family and you have a brother and sister to play with. You might have missed not seeing all friends but I think you adjusted amazing. Restaurants were closed, no trips to costco or the grocery store. It was really a time were people stayed home, cooked, did things around the house, ordered out, and spent time with the family they could see. Doctors and dentists would have to escort you in and only one parent at a time. At 2:00 daily we watched the number of positive cases just keep increasing and waited to hear what we need to do- including the stay at home order-- JUST STAY AY HOME- crazy to think of, right? I cancelled our spring break trip to Florida in fear of the unknown. Know having had Covid I still can't taste and smell everything, so I do wish I could have protected myself more. When sports were cancelled, concerts, no spectators at anything world wide we just keep figuring it out,there was a toliet paper shortage, no more clorox wipes. People were losing jobs, places closing their doors permanently. talk shows were from the hosts homes. There was more zoom contact that physical contact. People need people and boy do I love my people! About life here we go: In regards to atheltics and activities you able to compete in your sports and at times there was a pause, just like with school. When Gymmanstics took a pause you then you started at a new club called signature and you are now a level 4/5 gymnast practicing 9 hours a week! You will have your first competition in October, I can't believe it! You excel at gymnastics. You actually excel at everything and that is not because I am your Mom saying that, it is the truth. In the spring you played soccer and your team was second place in the league, losing in the championship in penalty kicks. Guess who made their penalty kick, YOU! That game had some drama and on any other day I know your team would have won the trophy. You loved that team and made some really nice friends. In that league you were also the leading goal scorer. You have 3 games with hat tricks! It was then you learned what a hat trick is! You scored in every game and I believe finished with 15 goals! OMG! Yes exceling at soccer. Remember when you told me, "Soccer is a waste of time." We have come a long way with you now playing travel for a club team called sockers, picking your own jersey number of #21 and having just competed in your first soccer tournament. Oh and get his this- YOU HAD A HAT TRICK! and socred on a Penalty kick totaling 4 goals in 3 games with a brand new team. How about that, Champion CHARLI! Soccer completes your other 2 week days with 3 hours of training a week. At this point you are just a well oiled machine, you don't complain you just do and you do it WELL! You and I went and tried out for different soccer programs, I was so proud of your ability to try new things and jsut get out and work. You are a force, a kind hearted force, and we know those are the ones to look out for! School, you have always loved school and the work you bring home is outstanding. 3rd grade report card was the first time your received letter grades and you earned STRAIGHT A's! I am so proud of all you do. For PE we made a home workout tabata video and it was shared with your school during quarantine! You created art projects, hair styles, made pictures for your walls, bracelets for friends. Your ability to sew, eye for fashion, and creations are amazing for example but not limited to pillows, pants, book bags, purses, masks. Just you and your sewing machine. You even made a blanket for Reilly to cover her dog bed. You are the next life style brand CRC, you can do it all. Including making your own special banana recipe. You are an all american girl in the best kind of way. Blonde hair, blue eyes, stinky pitties (don't worry you have deodorant) physically starting to grow up, crazy teeth, so strong, beautiful smile, kind heart, athletic, smart, funny, serious. You check off all the boxes! Oh and guess what your same little crush from 3rd grade Adien, well he has the same crush on you and he let you know he likes you the first week of school! he said he wanted to tell you he likes you, because he "really likes you"...and you are in the same class! That made starting school all the more exciting! And you earned a paw on the first day! Welcome to 4th grade! Thinking back on the covid year I was able to see you learn from your room, be a part of your class from the hall, be with you all the time, spend time with our family that we will never get the chance to do again. We got to watch all of AJ's firsts together. I wouldn't trade that for the world. It was a terrible time in the world of all the people's lives we lost and families that were crushed... but it was also a time for us that I will never forget. We took our annual trip to Florida, masks on! We swam, we ate, we saw family & friends. We lived, we laughed, and we loved. We will continue to be a team, the best team, we can do anything and we are stronger together. I already knew that but this past year and a half has emphasized all of it! I couldn't love my family more, I am so thankful, grateful, lucky, blessed. My heart is so full it is crazy. I have to thank my 3 miracles for that! Thank you I don't want to shortchange all that happened so I will try to go in my memory and recap: March 2020- June 2021- school from home Summer 2020- perfect weather, no pools open, we went to Grandma's a lot, had people over, mostly outside, restaurants were closed, we bought a pool for the yard, a giant unicorn sprinkler, we hung out, we cleaned and organized. We celebrated milestones with family. School year 2020- started on zoom as I mentioned- went to school- then back to zoom- and back to school THE WORST NEWS CAME IN DECEMBER 2020- We had our annual night before Thanksgiving party and my side of the family came over and I am forever thankful we did. You and Danica played soccer in the basement with Mark and Bryan. Sadly, that will be the last memory of Uncle Mark. On December 6, Mark has a massive heart attack at home and passed away. My heart will forever be missing one of its greatest pieces. Just know that the joy you guys gave him made his life better and he loved you so. This is the same with Aunt Soph, she may not always get to see you but she loves you and is so proud of you! Winter break 20-2021- Florida, beautiful family dinner with Eric and Grandma New friends during covid, Ganas family, Cole, Reagan and Paisley Weddings postponed during Covid Spring- gymnastics started again and soccer Summer 2021- Soccer camp in Naperville, swimming, gymnastics, lot of sushi and weddings! This summer you Danica, and AJ were in Courtney's wedding in Milwaukee and you were beautiful. Aj didn't do his job they way he was expected but it was exactly as it should be. It was so much fun! You met cousins and danced and started to show a little of your teenager side. When we got back from Milwaukee after a stop at the outlet mall. We practiced songs and dances for your next flower girl gig in Christopher and Kayla's wedding. Another awesome wedding and beautiful job by you and Danica. We had such a great time dancing and you were so upset when it was time to leave. But as family we have to work on - all good things comes to an end and there is always a new day full of promise! The thing is that you all think every day should be a party... I wonder where you get that from LOL! It was trulu a great summer. Anotehr highlight being the lemonade stand you and Danica had with Rose where you made $150! Yes close to $150- you told Frank, that your "cuteness if really paying off!" Got to love it. Bike rides are a daily request same with going to cook in front of you. We met Mr. Sumo's family and Joanne even came to babysit you!!! It was so fun. Another highlight was meeting cousins like Brennan, and seeing Uncle John and Auntie MIMI. In July we went to Kentucky and you had your first hotel sleepover with Kensie. We went to the Lexington horesepark and keenland and saw lot of fireworks. We even stayed another night at Embassy Suites hotel and you can Danica rode the elevators for hours. It was our first long car trip and everyone was awesome! You both are the best big sister, although at this point AJ defintely favors you and loved to tell Danica, "NO DACA, NO SISSY." Believe me you love it!!! Your clubhouse is amazing so that really came to fruition during the pandemic. It is a girls dream and only members are allowed! Good thing there are only a few friends that came over and they are members :) We are just really back in the swing of things. The pandemic isn't over but we are adjusting the best we can to life as it is now. We go out to dinner, we hang as a family, we go boating with Terry, we look froward to waht each new day brings. We spend a lot of time in the car :) We walk to school. We just LIVE. I can't wait for allthe year brings. I love you Charli, I am so proud of you, 9 couldn't look better on anyone else! I will remember when you told me you want to live with me forever. I hope so, I love you!

Covid summer to fall continues and so does life...

 I am not sure where I left off on the last post but today is September 28, 2020. Sometimes I feel like I am in the Back to the Future movies, which we have all watched as a family might I add. For a summer turned fall update, Remote learning has been going on for 7 weeks and you are rocking it! It is not the same learning in your room, but you are doing what you need to do and are getting rave reviews from your teacher. We have your chrome book linked to a bigger screen for a more comfortable learning environment.  In a few weeks they are allowing you to come back to the building and although you were hesitant before, your trailblazer little sister went to the building today so we are all anxiously awaiting what she thinks! We have been doing so much, I mean no wonder I have no time to write these blogs, there is so much to write about! Soccer and gymnastics both started up. In this post I want to write about soccer. A few years ago when you told me soccer was a waste of time, I was sure you would never find an interest in it and I let that ship sail. Well when Covid hit and we had those soccer play dates that I helped out with, your interest of soccer went 180' and now you LOVE it. Charli....you had your first game and you scored and I started to cry. You are a natural, you are outstanding, my jaw dropped. Your coach was in absolute shock that you had not played soccer before and just keep saying that he sees so many good things in your future soccer related, you have natural instincts, you are aggresssive, you are skilled, and may I add absolutely adorable. I mean seeing you on that field gives me butterflies. I can only hope soccer fulfills you the way it did me, actually I don't care what you pick but I hope you find he same joy and more that athletics gave me. I love that you are making new friends and above all you still want us to be your cheerleaders! Champion Charli Forever! After the game the other day you laughed at me and said I was cheering for Matilda, but there is no Matilda- there is a Madaline and a Madilynn---oh boy, how could I have gotten so confused??!!! LOL. In your first two games against the best team in the league you scored a goal in each. The 3rd game you came off the field with alligator tears because you didn't score and you said you had a bad game. You felt like your feet were switched. I think this was the best lesson you are starting to learn. We all don't have great games and we all don't have great days, but we just pick up our head and try to do better each time. It is the journey not the outcome we learn from. I am so proud of you win lose or tie, good game or bad. I will always be your biggest fan! We have also had some life lessons come about this spring that have showed me you not only have a conscious, but you have a soul and you know right from wrong. WE took sometime to explore that and we made good on all of it this past Saturday. Yes, Saturday, September 26th, mask on with MY Communion dress, built in necklace and all, you took the next step in Faith and made your First Holy Communion. You were beautiful, angelic, and we are so proud. You were glowing, honestly there was a radiance around you. Sarah came over and did your hair and it was awesome, then you put on my dress ( because you said you want to make it a tradition) and I don't think you have ever felt better. Grandma gave you her communion purse, bible, and rosary, and like that you were whole. You were all grown up in a matter of moments and you were so proud of who you are! That is all that matters, being prould of who you are and the choices you make. Daddy and I are so proud of who you are and what you stand for. We love you more than words. The celebration after was perfect. I watched you enjoy every family member and I could tell you just loved being celebrated. Danica on the other hand was missing out on being celebrated- she wanted "to eat somebody too and drink their blood"- she is still learinng exactly what communion means LOL. I am so thankful for the family we have and being able to share all these memories with them, it is just another reminder of how much you are loved by so many. There was a live video link since Covid has prevented large crowds and we must maintain social distancing, so it allowed all of the rest of our family to be a part of your celebration.

Every day is an adventure with this family. You continue to be an amazing big sister and helper to everyone. Your room could not be more organized and it screams creativity. You have made your closet in to your American Girl's apartment and even I am jealous. You have created closets and dressers, and apparatuses out of boxes I wouldn't even know where to start. All of this while being an excellent student, star athlete, and little girl. Honestly, Charli the day you were born was the happiest day of my life and I am blessed beyond words that you are mine. I don't know why I got so lucky but I did!

Your long blonde, blue eyes, crzy teeth smile, and athletic build make you a force on the outside but it is your inside that is the biggest force to be reckon with. Your curiousity, intrigue, kind-hearted nature are all reasons people flock to you. Keep up the great work and keep being you. Covid is not going to bring us down we will just keep rising up!

TODAY 10/5 you went back to in person learning at school. AHHHHHHHHHHHH I want to cry I miss you sooooo much!

How may days until Florida?

You have been on the countdown since we got home from Florida last January. You started to pack in August and finally it is about a week away.

Yesterday you told me if you had 3 wishes they would be this.
1) That no one would ever die
2) That the people who are in Heaven would all come back
3) You would have 2million 3hundred 25thousand dollars and make sure all animals are taken care of

Me too honey, me too.

You also told me that we don't need anymore babies in your family. That our family is complete because Danica takes all your stuff and that you want to make sure you will be able to spend time with another baby because you will get too big. I think you are exactly right, my clock doesn't necessarily agree but my heart knows you are right. At 7 years old you are right a lot!

You continue to kick butt in school, gymnastics, ice skating! You did your kip! You are cartwheeling all over the high beam, you are flipping backwards over and over and over again! You got grips, you are world class Charli. We are going to start talking about  private lessons for ice skating and as long as it's fun we will keep signing you up.

I am so impressed with your reading and your math and of course your creativity. You are so innovative and have made such awesome stuff out of nothing. You recently just made a zipper purse it is so cool. You also made a box with different sections and compartments including one that is hidden! I am sure you will be a shark on the next generation of shark tank, the sky is the limit for you!

****** I am fast forwarding on this to August 2020 and let me tell you honey, life as we know it will never be the same and once we hit March 16th, 2020 it all changed.

We went to Florida for winter break and it might have been the best trip EVER! I mean who doesn't love going to Florida for Christmas and coming home to open tons of presents including a look -a -like American girl doll you named Blue. I am not really sure if you know who Beyonce is, but you have the same taste in names and since she is an icon there is nothing wrong with that.  Florida really was a great time and you were able to spend a lot of time with Kensie and the Zam fam so that is always a plus.

When we returned to school 2nd grade continued to be awesome, as well as gymnastics.  I think you really had a great relationship with your teacher Mrs. Willis and I appreciated that. You truly excel in spelling and math and I am so proud of you and your ability to multi-task. You were preparing for your spring show at school, dressed as an adorable Clown ish and you even had a speaking part. "I'll have the fish platter."  Your spring gymnastics show was also on the horizon, leotards were just ordered. We even decided to go back to Florida for spring break and had our luggage all packed in the hallway. Then February came and went and we were heading into March and the talk of "Coronavirus or Covid-19" starting spreading across the US not just by word of mouth but by contact and it was making people sick. We had your birthday party on your official 8th birthday, not realizing that March 13th would be your last face to face contact day of school. Yes, you never returned to school for the 19-20 school year. I will get back to that in a moment.

Your 8th birthday party was just awesome! We had a fashion show runway birthday party. This year your birthday cake was cupcakes! We had 4 stations for your party, hair done by Sarah Ottesen the neighbor, make-up done by Kristen Ottesen the neighbor, nails done by me the Mom, and crafts done with Terry the Aunt!!! There were 25 of your closest girlfriends who all came to celebrate you. By that Saturday we were already hearing rumblings of schools closing and maybe a quarantine situation coming in to play but we really had no idea. Your friends all had to wash their hands and use sanitizer throughout the parry, everyone received their own make-up brushes and combs and we kept it as clean as possible. We had pizza and they took home their individual cupcakes. After all the stations were complete everyone walked our red carpet runway with their VIP lanyard they created and posed on the catwalk it was really awesome and I know you loved it. I don't want to forget that of course we celebrated on Wednesday of that week at cook in front of you, just in case the rumblings of closing could be true. So don't worry we made it and you ate it and loved every bite! March 16th the state of Illinois was put on a 14 day quarantine lockdown to stay home. Unless you were deemed an essential worker or need to grocery shop things were closed and you were to stay home. We were also taught the terms "social distancing" and were required to stay 6 feet away from everyone, or in kids terms 6 penguins away. Life got real, really fast. We were to stay away from those who were high risk and didn't see Grandma and Eric until April. Our spring break trip was cancelled and rescheduled and cancelled and rescheduled and not it is 5 months later August 13, 2020 and you are still not going back to school. The remainder of your 2nd grade school year was taught by me, Mom School, remotely at home and virtually by your teacher. We learned to zoom and that became the new way of social interaction while we will stuck at home. Not until the end of May did things begin to open and with different restrictions including wearing masks, continuing to social distance, temperature checks...and up until now the only restaurant you have gone back in to was Rok bonki the day they opened when we were the only ones there, a hot dog place on the tracks, Enzo's outside to see friends, and Mexico Uno to sit outside. Without trips to Grandmas and the neighborhood kids, you have been home, safe, healthy, sometimes bored but doing awesome. Grandma bought you a sewing machine for your birthday so that came in handy making masks. Your room has been changed so many times and the things you have created for your American doll and just for the sake of crafting itself is amazing! If you can believe it, you even painted your own nightstand we bought at a garage sale. Should I mention social distancing with masks -we have garage saled! One of the other highlights of summer was a get together fo your friends to play soccer, which Mommy came and took over....so glad I did because you and Danica said you love soccer! We are signed up for fall but that season just like many more to come I am sure will never be the same.

*I am not sure tthis post is complete but time is flying by and I need to do an update so I am going to publish this one and start a new one!

Teeth, what teeth!

We are in the swing of things in second grade. School, homework, gymnastics, ice skating, brownies, parties, playdates, every day is so full of stuff and you ROCK all of it! I continue to be so proud of you Charli. I appreciate your innocence and kind spirit. I appreciate how artistic you are and all your different interests. Grandma signed you up for a sewing class and you made an incredible pillow, which is just awesome and shows your array of talents. Each day you are creating something new. We are still thinking the Charli Reece Collection is definitely going to be a success. I am sure anything you do will be a success, you are that kid.

You have a new look!!! When you started second grade just a few months back you looked a little different than you do now. You lost your 2 front teeth within 2 days and boy was your mouth crazy. You looked like a human jack-o-lantern where every day you teeth were moving and shifting in different directions, with your new teeth coming in, which made for an awesome school picture! You even got $20 for one of the teeth, the tooth fairy must have known how hard you were working to get those out. We had to push and pull and wiggle wiggle and push and pull and wiggle wiggle for days. It was about 24 hours until we were going to make a trip to the dentist to help get your teeth out. You aren't really one for push push wiggle wiggle but you did it! One lost while eating and the other while brushing your teeth.

Round off flip flop and kick outs and pull overs. I don't even know the gymnastics lingo but boy can you perform. Talk about no fear, you are amazing!

Each day you become more aware of who you are and that people notice you and everyday I let you know your thoughts on who you are - are all that matter. You have a family that loves you and that is all that matters. I want you to keep being you. All blonde hair blue eyed brick house- YOU! My ponnie nonnie with the kindest heart and softest personality. Your sensitivity reminds me of just how fragile you are despite all the accomplishments. I pray for you to know your worth and find satisfaction in all you do and to use your voice.

I love you Charli and I will always be your biggest fan. The other night Grandma was over and we were all laying in AJ's room and I said, " Do you know who my favorite is," and you both were about to say who and I yelled out, "Danica." You belly laughed so hard.... We all did. I don't play favorites but you will always be my first born and I think that speaks volumes.

You be you Charli! You clean your room, you organize, you remain creative, you dress how you want, you style your hair, YOU BE YOU! Just don't forget to brush your teeth, use deodorant, and do your homework and it will all work out. Oh and spelling words, don't forget to study.

Rock on Sister. Love you so much!

Oh and I can't wait to use the legoland passes we won and for Halloween! You are going to be the greatest Alice in Wonderland Ever! Florida is just a few months away and yes you packed and we had to unpack.... the story of my life- LAUNDRY!

2nd grader in Charge

When I grow up: Artist, Waitress, cleaning lady- that is what went on our first day of school chalkboard! If it makes you instant money then you are all about it! Charli you just LOVE school, this morning was day 3 and I said it's Friday you get to sleep in tomorrow and you said no, I want it to be school again tomorrow - if that is not music to a Mom's ears I don't know what is-----well actually when you told me that you are the first one done on everything learning activity that is even sweeter music to my hear- that is like a number #1 hit! When you are finished you have choices of things to work on and you pick the crossword puzzles, what a great choice!

Your first day of 2nd grade was as sweet as you. I walked you to school and you told me that you couldn't finish your breakfast because you were, "too excited." Then as we walked closer to the school you let me know you had "so many butterflies" and out of nowhere a monarch butterfly started to circle us and follow us, when I told your teacher this she said, " that is a good omen." I think so too, good things happen to good people and you my dear are exceptional. You were so excited to have Danica at school with you and show her the ropes at CARE. It was such a great feeling knowing you will both be together. I didn't cry, my heart felt very full and for Moms you can't ask for a better feeling than full.

When we went to meet the teacher we found out you  will have your own desk, oh my gosh that was the greatest moment, talk about Christmas morning! We put your supplies in your desk and saw that your name tag was yellow, you told Mrs. Willis that yellow is your favorite color. How awesome!

You picked out a great outfit with a vest, hair in a bun, very mature. You even made your own lunch! I had to sneak a note in it! I have also given you the power to get hot lunch this year, so I can only hope you will make good nutritional choices. I think 2nd graders like you can do that.

You are still as pretty as ever with 2 new teeth growing in, your 2 front teeth are loose and you teeth are shifting to make room for them- Grandma said you look like a Jack-o-lantern! LOL!

You as well as your sister had a wipeout on your bike yesterday so your knees are all cut up and you have a swollen ankle from doing a cartwheel in the kitchen and hitting the chair. It is safe to safe we are complete controlled chaos. Okay--- I get control after the the 3rd time asking and then I have to scream it!

You love your new teacher and since your classroom is next to your old classroom and teacher, you have been able to give Mrs. Williams hugs and I know how much you loved her so that is comforting that she is right next door.

You have a great class, except one boy cost your class a bunch of marbles in the jar for yelling out! If you fill the jar it is a class party so he better figure it out!

I know you couldn't find the monkey bars when we were walking up so I will have to follow up on that. You continue to dominate the other bars but I let you know safety first and you said, "I know I am only doing pullovers." Now that Danica is with you, I hope SAFETY is number one out at the playground during CARE.

You are just so excited to have your sister there, you really are and I hope it will always be like that. You really have a special bond and I love you both so much! You are the best big sister to Danica and AJ. You really know how to balance your feelings for everyone, that is a special gift.

We love you Charli you rock 2nd grade! Be the best learner, helper, and friend. Just keep being awesome!

Goal for Day 1- make a new friend- Check-- you made 2 new friends!
Goal for the year- Perfect attendance (1st grade-Check)

Oh and Cameron ( the love note boy) we will see how that goes. I do have to say he is the cutest in the class.


* I am updating this a month in to school. You have still not lost your front teeth which get crazier every day and you told me you wish that all clothes were crop tops and I said shirts that show your belly???? and you said "no this" and pointed to what you were wearing... A ROMPER!!!!!

It's June 2019 baby!

OMG! Did so much happen in 6 months my head is spinning! 

Let me start out by saying we had quite a spring. You turned 7, you finished 1st grade, you are a big sister again, you can do a round off flip flop- flip flop, and you are more amazing than ever!!! The start of 2019 was in Florida with the most perfect weather and an awesome trip. January was the coldest on record with 4 days of school missed due to the freeze. February was date night with Daddy and Danica where you dressed up and danced the night away. Then brought March, your birthday, and Charli, you are 7! Your birthday party this year was at the movie theater seeing WonderPark and that did not go as planned. On our way to your party we were in a car accident and since Mommy was 30 weeks pregnant I was taken to the hospital but everything worked out (thank God)  and we are all okay. Grandma, Auntie Terry, and Auntie Tami were there to pick up the pieces and make the party a success including giving out the bundtinis, yummy. April brought school plays about Rats, open house, more gymnastics and ice skating lessons, another monthly brownie meeting, and a clay adventure at Color me Mine, hosted by Mom and Dad. We even saw Suessical. May brought you a baby brother, yep he is here! Your gymnastics recital, open house at school, and June brought you the last day of school, perfect attendance, and summer vacation which is where we are now. 

PHEW! That was a nut shell of events but every day has been jam packed with a new adventure, a new craft, a new lesson, new experience, and lots of learning. Every school night ends with a worksheet in Math and Charli you rock math! You rock spelling. If I had a dollar for every 100% you have earned I'd be rolling in the cash. I am so proud of you! Excelling in school and excelling in gymnastics and ice skating. You are the youngest Might Might moving up before you were 7. Overcoming your fear of the pit bar and anything else that stands in you way. It is still true that everything you touch turns to gold, you really excel in everything and  it is truly amazing. Beautiful blond hair, bright blue eyes, a strong build with not an ounce of fat on your body, and the sweetest personality; so soft, kind, and serious but fun. You are a force Charli, don't you ever forget it! So many playdates and parties, your social life has kicked up another gear. You were even given a gift for being such a nice friend. We always have time to be kind.

You have done a great job with brownies and learning new worldly lessons. You sold close to 300 boxes of cookies- WOW! Nice job! We went to a water park, a camp under at the forest preserve, and gave out leprechaun themed cake pops for your birthday. Your vest has no more room for patches. (And let me just say putting those patches on is an impossible task) oh and did I mention you sold cookies at the Jewel while it was snowing, you are a hustler baby.

You have really been in to creating things and come home with a new something out of nothing creation daily. Your save bin is overflowing. The latest craft you have been interested in is making bracelets. You are like the once-ler you can't crank them out fast enough. You have made rubber band bracelets and now we are on to thread. I bought you 3 different bracelet makers each with its own type of bracelet. You are planning to sell them at our upcoming garage sale and were able to sell at the last pop up sale we went to. I think you are going to invent something one day, all you have to do is solve a daily problem people have and make like easier (easier said than done, right?) I can see you on shark tank one day.

Your room is fabulous, it isn't always clean, but it is fabulous. Just like you.You even made a calming corner in your closet like the one in your classroom. You have a great sense of style and are so artistic with color choices. I am excited for the color you picked to paint your bathroom, Turquoise Haze, can't wait to see how that turns out. I make sure to ask you about my clothing choices, because we know Daddy doesn't help. 

I love watching you and Danica interact, fight, laugh, play, lay together, swing together, ride bikes together, craft together, read together, sing, dance, sleep, even brush your teeth together! I love that you want to be together. She adores you and wants to be just like you. Imitation is the highest form of flattery and she is your mini. She even knows your entire gymnastics routine- Hey Mickey! It is awesome the bond you too have and I am so excited, for the first time, to watch you both perform TOGETHER at Bible Camp this Friday!!! We are so blessed that you like each other, no that you LOVE each other, and that you LOVE your little brother.

Speaking of your little brother... you asked me when we were at Disney World if you could tell me your wish, and if you did, would it still come true....and You decided to tell me.... you told me that you wished on a star for a baby brother, and Charli your wish came TRUE. It really did, and I never told anyone my wish but it came true too xoxoxxox. Oh, you just love your brother, and you want to hold him and spend time with him all the time. In his face is still not close enough for you or your sister, but I have to say you are so good with him. You hold him like you have done this your whole life, you are a natural. Even when he grabs your hair and your face you still don't even react. You are a great little mommy. He is already so lucky to have a big sister like you and Danica. What an amazing family we have and every day life just keeps getting better.

This summer has so much potential between Bible Camp, cheer camp, gymnastics, play dates, fests, parties, and a whole lot of play it by ear that I hope we make every day full of excitement and can tire you out. Not leaving a moment unturned without something fun to do.

So proud of you honey, and all you are, all that you do, and all you aspire to be. I hope you remain as humble, kind, and sweet as you are. I hope you will always want to hug me first, light up every time you see me, want to hold my hand, want me to do your hair, want to read together, spend time with you, share secrets, trust me, and love me the most, now and always. My sweet girl Mommy loves you to the moon and back and beyond to infinity. Keep creating, keep wishing on stars, you are my greatest creation and proof that wishes come true.

PS- let me not forget the story (lie) you told Jody about your cousin's wedding...on a Tuesday.. of why you missed practice....and you had everyone fooled. Well it just so happens, "like my dream" you said, when Robyn asked you and Danica to be flower girls in her wedding. Can't wait!

December 2018 update

Smartest first grader I know. Yep I said first grade! What an awesome transition to first grade. I love that you love school. Charli!!!!! 100%'s on spelling tests, 100%'s on math tests, I mean I couldn't ask for more. At parent teacher conferences your teacher said you are "delightful" I don't know if it gets better than that. We are so proud of you. You get so excited for art class and music class and seem to absorb everything like a sponge. Well not everything, the blisters and calluses on your hands symbolize the hard work you are putting in at the bars at recess-- including falling on your chin- fear is not an option I wish it was.

 It feels like everything you touch turns to gold- gymnastics you have moved up again doing level 5 events, giants- flip flops - back walk overs- one handed cartwheels! Ice skating you have moved up 4 class levels in 6 months and the teachers are just amazed by you. Crafting, that is a no brainer-- and having you and Danica in cooking and crafting class together for the first time was just awesome. The next event in your life is becoming a Daisy, yep you are officially on the cookie selling trail. You and your sidekick Danica selling door to door in your snowsuits- quite a team. Your goal is 101 boxes and with family, friends, and neighbors we might just get there. You did caroling for cans in  20' weather going to different homes and singing Christmas carols with your troop to get cans of food for those in need- I am so proud of your dedication. I can see your kind heart through the eyes of others, I am not sure there is anyone who doesn't want to be your friend and be around you and that really is a reflection of your good nature and soul.

You have been on a countdown for Florida for as long as I can remember. You made a calendar out of blocks and everyday you change the date, you let me know the date, and tell me how many days until we leave. I think you are a little bit excited! Praying for warm and sunny!

This summer you went off the high dive on the 4th of July and were a trailblazer for all of your friends. We took fear out of your stomach and we threw it away and now I can't get your down from the high dive. You also jumped off the boat at the lake house and I think you started dreaming of going back in  the lake you had so much fun. You and Danica are definitely boating girls and with a fun family like we have a day on the boat is always an adventure.

I put you in a soccer camp with a company I once worked for, Challenger Sports, and it was so hot out that week- and you told me "Soccer is a waste of time." I laughed so hard. We are going to put soccer on the back burner, not to say that you aren't skilled, there are other things you are more interested in...obviously! At that same camp you did however win for the most creative when we took a lamp shade and decorated it with all things China, that was the country you represented. Nice work CRC! I think in the creative department we always have the edge.

So many fun parties, pool days, extracurriculars, pay dates, fun outside, new playground from "Mr. Jimmy,"  snow day from school, Grinch the musical, Shrek the musical, Pinkalicious, Grinch in the movie theater, Santa's Village, night of a 1000 jack-o-lanterns, Cosley zoo, kite flying, long grove-- wow and this is just a few of the things we did - our days are filled from sun up to sun down- I think you even rode on a camel- actually I know you did.

Here is  a funny thing I just remembered about carving pumpkins- once they were carved I put them on the porch and the squirrels ate them, oh my gosh you and Danica were so upset. I know it isn't funny but it is because they tore those pumpkins up!

I love taking you to school everyday and seeing your outfit choice. One morning when it was 25' and you were wearing a short sleeve- slightly see through shirt -I told you to change and you told me, "I don't let you be your own person." I told you , you could be your own person when you are 25!

One day we were talking and you told me that I could hug and kiss you and walk you in to school every day even  when you are 35, even when you are 65. I sure hope so. I love that you tell me you are going to live in our house forever, and I love when I wear things that you like and you ask if I can save them for you. This goes for pictures too, when you like a picture you ask if I can  send it to your IPAD and then send it to your phone....when you get one..... like when you are 13!

Your heart is so pure and you have big blue eyes that are full of adventure. It is so fun to be around you and see what you are going to do next, you are all over the place. Your creative mind has led you to make a picture shrine in your room, a teddy bear wall, spinning art all over the kitchen when you should have been in bed, Dabbitz at 5 in the morning when you couldn't get enough. When you set your mind on something there is no stopping you....sounds familiar....Auntie Mimi just sent you an interactive watch and you can take pictures, sing in it, oh and it tracks your exercise so last night you were running the stairs trying  to beat your last time, a 6 year old setting personal records and beating their PB that's all heart baby!

I can say that you do sleep in your bed ... sometimes.... and because of you Elf Angel. When you do sleep in your be sometimes I awake to you standing over me and staring at my like poltergeist. OMG- terrifying. Then you just crawl in bed. I have no complaints --- I love when you and Danica are in our bed I mean you are only little once, right?

Well times they are a changing, when you wished upon a star as Disney world last year for a baby- it came true. It actually came true, you will be a big sister again in  May and we are all overly excited and filled with joy. I know you will be a tremendous help and I think everything just keeps falling in to place.

You have made my life more than I ever imagined. I love you Charli Reece to the moon and back a billion zillion times. My little ponnie ronnie!

I tool cannot wait for Christmas in Florida and all that 2019 will bring, until then I am just enjoying like with my beautiful family every overjoyed and blessed day at a time.

WHAAAAAAAT?????????? 6 years old, when? how?

                                                 
Charli Reece are you really 6? I can't even believe it,  I really can't. I don't know how that happened so fast. You bring so much happiness to my life, we are all more than happy to celebrate you, and that we did! We went to the same cook in front of you we have taken you since your first birthday. We celebrated with lots of family and lots of friends throughout the week. We celebrated so much that the night before your actual birthday I said to you, "Charli your birthday is tomorrow, today is the last day you are going to be 5," to which Danica in complete distress blurts out, "It's Charli's birthday again!!!!!"

It was quite a few weeks of celebrating. Your big birthday party this year was at California Pizza Kitchen with 36 friends! WOW you have so many friends and they had a great time. Every one got to pick an apron (dog groomer, grocery store clerk, chef, beauty salon, hardware store, doctor) it was so fun and so colorful. We toured the restaurant and got to go behind the scenes. Then everyone made their very own pizza. We had a leprechaun cut out so I took an individual picture of each friend as a leprechaun for their thank you card. It was so fun. Then  we finished with cake and ice cream. This year your cake was.... drum  roll please.....UNICORNS! ( and the crowd goes wild) It really was such a great time and you received so many amazing gifts that focused on crafting so that was really awesome. I thought the birthday outfit you picked out was spectacular, it was a beautiful long, light green dress, with pink flowers and you picked the Chef apron. For the record, Danica picked the Doctor apron. You wore a birthday girl official ribbon, and my dear you looked fabulous, with a 4 leaf clover painted on your check from cupcakes for the cause a day before. You made sure I loaded your cake up with princess candles and I did just that. Danica was in complete admiration watching you blow out your candles, it was a really special day for a REALLY special girl.

I am now completing this post 2 months later, where did the time go! Let me see, I know... crafting, gymnastics, piano lessons, stem classes, soccer, cheerleading, riding your bike, planting flowers, going to parties, playing with friends, and ICE SKATING. And how could I forget, Kindergarten! Open house, the seed packing event, field day, Dads and donuts, moms and muffins. We have done so much that each day the calendar has something new for us to do. We even went for a dinner cruise on  Aunt Ter's pontoon in the middle of the week! We are so busy having so much fun! You have done nothing more since the day you graced this world with your presence than amaze us, and at 6 you just keep getting more amazing! This past weekend was your gymnastics show and you were unbelievable! You moved up to an elite level and you showed everyone why! A back walk over- what?! Charli you are so awesome and your toe pointing and poses  are on point, you are definitely a star. You have set your goals high on wanting to be an ice skater so honey you are now an ice skater! The most determined I have seen. Since you stepped (fell on the ice) you have your eye on the prize. You are mind over matter by far. You see yourself as an ice princess so I know you will be one. In your first classes you are already starting to spin- if you can see it you can be it you can do it. I have always said you make me believe that first hand because that is what you do.

You have taught me so many things- like new handshakes, we do our secret one every morning when I drop you off to CARE. You have taught me new rhymes including one about going to Mexico- Dad and I think we need to change some of the words though...... also about the middle finger.... yep we don't use that one. You have had to tell some boys you can be friends, but can't have a boyfriend. We have come along way from your throwing shoes on the bus with Shiv! You wear your emotions on your sleeve so there is no hiding when you do or attempt to do something wrong. We also know the rule of keeping our hands to ourselves and you know what to do if anything happens.  We have our own 9-11 cheer!

  Food groups include a lot of carbs- like noodles, pizza, pancakes, cereal, bread, yogurt---you are a picky eater, but when it comes down to it, you really are a healthy eater, broccoli is a house fave.

Let me not forget to mention our own family shows, "Now taking the floor....Charli" (we love all your shows) I really like when Eric changes your names (George, Jessee).

 You are exceptional in school and earned more paws...oh and did I mention you were a top fundraiser for jump rope for heart and helping others, that is just great honey. All these lessons you are teaching me, and how you can read now and add and subtract, and new hairstyles, and clothing choices it is the coolest! You are by far the coolest. Now if we can just get you up in the morning without a struggle, stay in your own bed all night, like brushing your teeth, clean your room, help with laundry...you know what in the long run  I am thinking about winning the war, I will pick and choose my battles.

The fact that you love us the most, that you want to hug and kiss us, and spend all your time with your family  is all the matters. You give the best hugs and I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. You say to the moon and back and I say to the moon and back to infinity now and forever.

Bring on summer and first grade!

Welcome 2018, It's Report card time

Charli!!!!! You received your first report card from kindergarten and it was nothing short of amazing. We are so proud of you and we are taking you out to cook in front of you to celebrate. There wasn't a category that you didn't excel. That makes us so proud! Way to go honey. School has been wonderful for you in all aspects and I couldn't be happier knowing just how much you enjoy being there. You hit the 100th day of school and had a huge celebration. We decorated your 100 with googly eyes and pom poms it was awesome! We also made the coolest unicorn Valentine's day box of course with an horn and as shiny and glittery as we could make it. You were so proud and you should be. Just to add to all our crafting projects we made your invitations for your upcoming pizza party celebrating your 6th, yes 6th birthday! What? When did that happen? Holy guacamole, where did the time go???? I cannot even believe that you are reading and writing and I mean well, really well. I am in awe. You know what I think it the best part about school? Snow days! And guess what, we had one and you guys wasted no time getting in the snow and playing in  your snow suits---one thing you didn't remember was to bring your boots home from school so I wrapped your feet in plastic bags and you wore your rain boots. LOL only us :)

 The start of 2018 has been a great one as we spent the second day of 2018 at the Magic Kingdom. (Your favorite part was the dumbo ride and the Aladdin ride and I let you drive the car)May I mention it was COLD. Just a week before on Christmas we were swimming in 80' weather and gathering shells from the beach. The weather is like life, you never know what each day will bring so make the most of each day you have. We try to do just that, every day should be a new experience and adventure. You my little miracle have started piano lessons, fungeneering, and continue to rock in gymnastics. We have talked about hip hop dance, tennis, and soccer so let the games begin! Whenever there is a crafting class offered we make sure you are there! It's so great that you have an artist in  Grandma and a master crafter in Auntie Terry which means you will always have something fun to make.

Just last week we went to see Disney on Ice and wow that was spectacular. I have to admit that the part you and Danica loved the most were the $12 each icy's..... in a souvenir cup- yep that's right, $12. You picked Rapunzel and Danica Elsa, then  you continued to have laughing attacks for the next 2 hours. It was quite a day to say the least. We will be going to see "The Emperor's New Clothes" next so that is something to be excited about. With spring around the corner we have 4 birthday parties lined up and yours so there is so much going on. The busier you are the happier you are so lets just do stuff!

Oh Charli by the way,  do you think that you could make it a habit to sleep in your own beautiful room in your own bed? Let's see if that is something we can work on for 2018.

---One side story you have been learning about secrets, and pinky swears, and making wishes. We talked about how you don't have to share your wishes ... but you kept getting sad that yours wasn't coming true..... You told me that you wish for a baby brother-----oh my sweet angel Charli, I too have wished for that---- but sometimes something better happens than what you wished for and for me it was YOU and DANICA. There is a song called "Unanswered prayers" by Garth Brooks, when you read this listen to the song you will  understand exactly what  I mean. I love you honey.

and that triggered my mind about secrets, which is such a big deal at this age and secrets are not a good thing. We have discussed any secret you are told Mommy has to know so we are good on  that...but oh boy did I screw up. I taught you how to make a silly noise and said that no one else knows how to do it, so it is our secret. I did the noise in the car in Florida with Daddy, Danica, and Eric, and you flipped out. I don't know if I am not allowed to make the noise but all I know is that Eric helped save the day. He let me know that in families we don't have secrets and that I am his sister and have been annoying him with that sound forever. You were still made at me, but I have to admit it was hilarous, you had daggers in your eyes. Oh my pannie.

Kindergarten Charli

MY PANY! You are growing like a weed. I am so proud of you. You are thriving in school, in gymnastics, in friendships, in crafting, in life skills, it is as if everything you touches turns to gold. Not a bad thing that's for sure. What an awesome transition you've made to Kindergarten and the CARE program.  The learning you have done this fall is incredible. You are reading! You are doing addition and subtraction problems all by yourself! You are drawing pictures, nailing sight words, creating projects, solving problems, discovering science, meeting new friends. YOU LOVE SCHOOL! Every day brings you brand new adventures to explore; the world is at your fingerprints. Charli, I told you that you can do anything you put your mind to and that you have all the skills to do anything. Guess what! The very next day you taught yourself to ride your bike. I said balance like you do in gymnastics and just like that , you were riding off in to the sunset, life skill accomplished. It was awesome! You were so excited and so were we! I am so proud of you everyday, I am so blessed that you are my daughter. I think you are all around amazing.

 Let me just take a quick step back....With all this great stuff, let me say we have had our fair share of struggles as well. Do you remember about a year and a half ago when you cut your hair at Kathy's, and we discussed that you will never do that again because you are not a professional.....well not too long ago Danica came running upstairs to find me and let me know "Charli cut her hair." Daddy left his clippers in the basement  bathroom and you just couldn't resist, you put them right up to your hair and cut a perfect line in the side. It could have been a disaster like last time but we didn't need to fix this cut with another cut, thank GOD. Honestly, with your blond hair and beautiful blue eyes it doesn't really matter. With your sweetest heart and kind, helping, giving spirit it doesn't  matter at all. It's just hair---- but let me tell you it is not happening again young lady! Oh and lets not forget when I was putting up lights outside and I thought Daddy took you and Danica to the store. You ran out of the house crying, " I'm shaking. I'm shaking." I had no idea what was going on. We went in the house and it smelled of burnt smoke. You took a PB&J sandwich in it's plastic wrap and put it in the microwave and turned it on. I can only imagine the sparks and what happened next but it scared you to pieces. I am hoping that it scared you not to touch the microwave again. As independent as you are, we have to keep you grounded and always keep our eye on you and  help you to understand what you can and can not do at 5 years old. We have had a few other iffy experiences of you testing the boundaries, and some crabby over tired days, but sometimes we need to realize that you are only 5. Oh I am sorry I mean 5 and a half year old, that is very important to you! Believe me you let everyone know who asks, " I am five and a half."

You are such a busy five and a half year old. You have continued weekly gymnastics and are the best in the class. I don't know what they would do without you, and they actually tell us that, they need you to demonstrate each week. You tell me that you really like the bars, but I am super amazed by your flexibility. That goes for a lot of people. I put you in a Fremd cheer camp and when I went to work the next day a cheerleader at my school came up to me with an image on her phone and said, "Isn't this your daughter?" It was a picture of you in the air with your leg to your ear doing a cheer pose, the caption said--RAISING CHAMPIONS YOUNG. Seriously! Then a few weeks later you performed at the Palatine/Fremd football game and they put you up in the air again and everyone cheered. I don't even think you know how good you are. Again I am just in awe of you. Athletics is not the only thing you excel in. You are a master crafter. You have an eye for design and you create masterpieces. I have you in every science, crafting, STEM class under the sun and you LOVE them. You come home with the best projects and of course a fan favorite, SLIME! Fun for kids, a nightmare for Moms. I think your creativity is something to be admired and I am on board for you to try everything, you will even begin piano lessons soon. I also can't wait to decorate and explode the volcano Auntie Terry gave you for Christmas. Glad Grandma introduced me to Greased Lightning to clean up after you and your sister!

Speaking of Grandma, she is your life line to gymnastics, as she takes you each week and then you have continued your dates. I am trying to explain to Grandma that dates do not have to include doughnuts but I am not sure Grandma listens and they say you can't teach an old dog new tricks. LOL

Every day I try to have you in something new, give you something fun to do, something for you and Danica to enjoy, and  always spend quality family time. Daddy is no longer coaching wrestling so we had an awesome fall and winter so far! We did a lot of boating since it stayed warm for so long and a lot of family time. You went to the pumpkin farm with your class, we went as family, we went on Thomas the train, we went on the Polar Express. We have gone to see awesome shows including Sleeping Beauty and Alice in the Looking Glass. For Halloween you were Glenda the Good Witch and Danica was Dorothy. Oh how beautiful you were. We had another fun halloween party and I made some spooky snacks. It is so fun going to friend's homes and having them over. It is even more fun watching you interact with other kids because they are like moths to a flame around you. You captivate everyone!

Daddy and I went to your Kindergarten Christmas show and it was awesome. You didn't tell me you were chosen for a speaking part and you were so good! Your line was, "We are now going to sing Feliz Navidad." Charli it was so awesome. Again, so proud! You said your favorite part of Christmas is opening up gifts. This year on your list is a fidget spinner, hatchimals, a unicorn book bag. You gave the list to your Elf, Angel, and you have kept Angel's letter under your pillow since she arrived after Thanksgiving on the first magical snow. I can't believe it is almost Christmas and she will be heading back to the North pole. The excitement you and Danica had when your elves arrived is something your Dad and I will never forget. Kids are the greatest excitement and thrill any person can have. So blessed to be a parent of 2 amazing girls. Girls truly make the world go round.

I am so excited for Florida and I know you are even more excited. You just cannot wait to go swimming. We are going to have the best time. Every day with you is the best time. I love dropping you off at school each morning because when we walk in  you tell me how much you love me and how much you are going to miss me and then you tell me to pick you up late! So funny. I love when you sneak in my bed every night, and walking up to your angel face is the best. You and Danica are something else that's for sure. You  love each other so much and are just the best of friends, you are so lucky to have one another. I love that you always have a playmate and friend and how much you both just giggle. We really have the  best time.

I am excited to share our adventures of Florida and how the second half of kindergarten plays out what an exciting 2018 ahead, and we are going to kick it off with a visit to Disney World! Love you

6 months later to the day!

Charli Reece today was your First Day of kindergarten and just like I did to Grandma when I was a little girl, you left me in a ball of tears! I dropped you off, you took a few pictures for me, you gave me a hug, and you said " Bye Mommy." That was all she wrote, by the time I turned back to hug you again you were already busy coloring and making friends. Oh Charli I LOVE YOU! I cannot wait to hear all about your day, I wish I could pick you up right now-- 3:30 can't get here soon enough! I hope you enjoyed the lunch we packed, laughed, met a lifelong friend, washed your hands ....all these thoughts I have in my head--- come on clock move faster!

Now Rewind to the past 6 months that flew by. Oh the places we have gone, people we have seen, and the things we have done! You finished up your time at St.Thomas and are a Preschool Graduate. You even wore a graduation cap at your ceremony, that was such a special day! You wore a beautiful blue dress with a fur shawl and had you hair braided; you looked so beautiful. Grandma, Daddy, and I were all there to watch your teacher recap the amazing year, sing songs you worked hard to learn, and receive your diploma.  Grandma took you on a special date after to celebrate and we went out to dinner that night!

You have continued with weekly advanced gymnastics and of course those days consist of your dates with Grandma. The next session will start up again next week. You gymnastics skills have me awe-inspired. You can do a one handed cartwheel at ease and are perfecting your back walk over! Just Amazing honey, so proud of you. With you loving gymnastics and the natural tie in we decided to give cheer camp a try.  You enjoyed your time and did an awesome performance at the end of the week in front of the whole camp. That reminds me, you had a gymnastics show with the entire park district and you rocked that too!  Wow you are performing everywhere superstar, Champion Charli. Currently you are taking some cheer classes and even got a pair of cheer shoes. You have taught us all the cheers and Danica loves to do them with you, what a great teacher you are.

Over the summer you took crafting classes, cooking classes, gymnastics, swim lessons, science classes, story time and drawing, you did soooo many things. We spent a lot of time at the pool and you are now a member of the jumping off the diving board club at both Birchwood pool and Grandma's house, including Grandma's water slide. Your swimming strokes are just awesome, I can't believe how smooth your backstroke is...ok I can believe it because you are amazing but really honey it is great!

We went boating out at Auntie Ter's and Uncle Neil's lake house and you even went fishing off the dock and helped catch a fish. That was such a fun day meeting all your cousins and hanging out with family. You got to meet so many new family members and spend time with Aunts and Uncles and cousins from out of town. That was really special. I think it was one of the greatest summers EVER!

You are mastering the art of riding your bike and I think it is time to take the training wheels off....stay tuned. In the mean time you are a ziggle machine!

With your love of art and crafting you are so blessed to have the masters of both in our family with Grandma and Auntie Ter. Grandma is such an advocate for you, like when you colored the bathtub or carved your name in your wood door, she said, "Oh she's just an artist that's what we do!" And with Auntie Terry you have had your own 1 on 1 crafting dates and even helped her get crafts ready for her classroom. What a great helper you are! She sent you home with so many other crafts, even at restaurants she has crafts for you to do, every day there has been so much crafting going on. Every project you make is so special that we made you a bin this summer to keep all of them safe, I think we are going to need another bin soon!

You have so many talents it is captivating to watch all you can do because you really are the sweetest and most innocent girl. You eyes are so full of wonder and you just want to explore and learn more and more. We redecorated your room and you picked the paint color- it is the most beautiful pink and the most perfect color I think you could have picked, whispy pink. Your eye for design is crazy, I ask for your advice with everything. The eye, girl you have it!

You own look is like a drawing of a doll you are so beautiful with such soft features. Your beautiful blue eyes are protected by the most golden long eye lashes. You have such sweet pouty lips and a smile that could light up the sky. You are built like a gymnast so strong yet so petite and just lovely. You truly are lovely.

In a questionnaire for kindergarten we were asked 5 works to describe you, I put 6: energetic, kind, creative, artistic, explorative ( I don't even think that is a word), athletic... I should have put a million words: bubbily, intelligent, silly, loveable, sweet..... Charli you mean everything to me and I think you are AMAZING!

If I could spend every minute of the day with you and Danica I would. Last night was the one of the first times you went to your bed by yourself like a big girl and slept there because you knew school was starting and you were so excited. Pink teddy and blanket in tow, clothes picked out, you entered dream land with such great anticipation and some jitters for the first day of a whole new chapter in your life. I went in your bed when the thunderstorm hit and then back to my room...and at 5 am when there was some noise on your window pane I had no problem cuddling you back in to my bed where you really belong....ok I know you  belong in your big girl bed. I missed being kicked and punched in the face all night in my king size bed. HAHA

We had an amazing summer and though it was like pulling teeth at times I appreciated you help with laundry and with cleaning your room. You started to earn money for your piggy bank doing different chores and that was so awesome for you. I also appreciate you helping with your sister and with Reilly. Being a big sister is such an amazing role and one that is a lot of responsibility and I appreciate you rising to the occasion. My lil pookie paka mookie mana, pan. There are not enough nicknames in the world, I create a new one everyday!

Thank you for brushing your teeth and being such a good girl in the shower. Thank you for dressing yourself so nice every day. Thank you for eating cereal and bring picky about everything else, especially bread! When it comes to cook in front of you thought, you clear your entire mean when it comes to the kids steak and I mean everything from the soup to the last lick of chocolate or sherbet ice cream! You are such a neat kid, ponnie. Thank you for being you!

I am excited about this school year for you and all the activities you are going to be involved in: gymnastics, soccer, slime class, crafting class, science classes, dance classes, daddy daughter class, cheer, wow Charli you are in so much stuff. I hope you enjoy every minute of it. You deserve all of life's best!!!!

Recap of first day of school: I picked you up and you were eating a snack and had the biggest smile on your face. You told me you had a great day, you even asked if we could go take a picture with your teacher!!! It was music to my ears. They gave you bubbles at CARE so we went outside and took a picture in the tree, and you blew all the bubbles. It was awesome. Then we went out to cook in front of you, your request, and celebrated with Auntie Terry, Auntie Tammy, Uncle Neil, Uncle Mike, and Laura.... and of course Danica and Daddy. It was a perfect day for a perfect little girl! Bring on Kindergarten. So excited for what happens next!!!!

Love you soooooo much!!!!!

ALMOST 5 .. ALMOST KIndergarten

Charli Reece! Oh my gosh can you believe it? I cannot. My baby girl is a big girl. You are such an amazing person. You are smart, kind, silly, artistic, mischievous, explorative, animated, fashionable, and most of all loving. You are a terrific big sister and such a role model to Danica, She loves to do everything you do and watching how well the two of you get along is the greatest of gifts for your Dad and I. You are an experienced gymnast and enjoy your Tuesday dates with Grandma. You have had your ups and downs with school but mostly because you are so busy you need more to do. You thrive in all situations and have an amazing imagination. Your fine motor skills continue to be off the charts and I am so impressed with your logic and problem solving skills. Oh and did I forget to mention you are dramatic, you could win Academy awards daily!

Daddy and I were away from you over night twice this past year for a wedding and the Superbowl. Grandma, Auntie Ter, and Uncle Neil took care of you and Danica. The morning you woke up and we weren't there you took a framed picture of me rom high school and put in on the kitchen table while you were eating breakfast and told Grandma, " I am eating with Mommy." Then you face timed me and it about broke my heart, I had to promise you that I won't ever go away over night again!!!! But the fun you had dragging tiolet paper all over the house, making projects, dressing up like lady Gaga. I mean you guys laughed the entire time lucky girl, blessed family. Oh and the mess you made. I think I am going to give up on your room being cleaned every day. And as much of a helper you want to be at times you hate laundry---don't we all.

Your big interests are making forts, sliding down the stairs, jumping off of things, changing your clothes a hundred times a day, rainbow showers, brushing your teeth, gymnastics, coloring, projects, dolls, and making a mess. Not to mention play doh in any form including the I pad. You are bust busy busy.

Florida at Christmas was no different this year than others, perfect. You are a great little swimmer and made it from one side of the pool to the other, you did it! You loved the ocean and had no fear this time and would go in and out and let the waves crash at your feet! You went shelling with Grandma and Grandma even spent new years with you and Danice in your pretty dresses! For Christmas you got everything you wanted from Santa because you made such an awesome list and we sent it out in the mail and Elf gave you a good review after a couple naughty list struggles... Oh my gosh and Santa even called you, luckiest girl! We made an awesome snowman and played in the magical snow...and even suffered heart break. When River passed you asked, " when you die do you just disappear and go to the sky?" Dad told you there is a stairway and when you get there you aren't sick anymore. You asked if he could come back when he isn't sick anymore and we explained that he has to stay in the sky but he is with your Grandpa's and Gramsy... You let us know you were going to make him pictures to take to the sky and leave them on the bottom stair. That is who you are, caring, compassionate, loving, and able to use art to express love. You teach me something new everyday. Thank you- love you the most!

Thank you for the joy of music and dance you bring to the house and share with your sister. We have such a happy house because of you. Charli you make the world go round- I love you!

Mommy Blurp

C&D,

I turned 38 years old and it was quite possibly the most amazing day I have ever had. I just want you to know that I woke up with Charli on my left and Danica on my right in my bed in our new house. Charli had a fever in the night and when I woke her around 2am to give her some medicine, I said "honey I have to give you medicine and guess what it is my birthday" , and Charli responded "Right Now? Happy Birthday Mommy." She told me that she couldn't wait for it to be my birthday she would make sure the first thing she told was happy birthday when she woke up so I made sure she could do just that. It was truly  music to my ears and I could feel my heart melt. That morning having you both in my arms was the greatest gift anyone could ask for. Then you all sang Happy birthday and gave me hugs and kisses and Danica even sent a video from Kathy's singing me Happy Birthday. It was the best! Then your Daddy took me to Wrigley to root root root the Cubbies in the WORLD SERIES! Really it doesn't get any better. I am so blessed I am beyond words. I love you both more than you will ever know. Thank you....just thank you so much for making my life unbelievable. Love, Mom Mom

Pre-school 4 for my 4 year old baby girl!

Charli you are such a big girl!!!!! You are quite the fashionista and quite sophisticated for your years. The intelligence you have blows my mind every day. I am dreaming so big for all you are and will be. Each  day with you is a journey, an experience, something to look forward to before, during,  and after. You light up a room with your smile and magnetic personality and piercing blue eyes. You have such a sense of curiosity and desire for independence it makes every moment busier than the next and full of adventure. You explored the art of hair styling by cutting your hair and quite a mullet style prevailed. You told me you will never cut your hair again and also  you "will never cut Danica's hair because you are not a professional." I conquer baby girl, I conquer. You had an amazing summer and made it so much more exciting for us each day because when you woke up you would ask with big eyes, "what are we doing today, where are we going?" Gosh those words are music to my ears! We went to the play pool as often as we could, we went to so many parties, we saw cousins and  Great Auntie Soph and Great Uncle Rich from California, we hung out with Auntie Ter and Uncle Neil, Courtney, and Laura. We went to Long Grove and festing, we went to music concerts, the zoo. We watched the turtle races, we went to Grandma's pool. We even booked our trip to Florida because honey you remind me everyday of how much you love Florida and want to go back. We saw Robyn and all the family and we just lived everyday to the fullest! We even saw Finding Dory in  the movie theatre that was so cool! You are just my best little girl. You had a great time at camp and did so many awesome projects. You also had gymnastics and got the golden ticket to move in the advanced class and let's not forget your recital. Aiawakea-- I don't know if we will ever get that song out of our heads. I have enjoyed watching your artistic talents whether it comes from the pictures you draw, what you color and create, what it is you see through your eyes and share, or your amazing taste in  clothes and make-up. You definitely are a fancy nancy. I think your ability to converse and find an interest in  people is really neat. I like how you have a presence about yourself. I love how you dance and the faces you make. You truly are an entertainer, an actress, a one girl show. Watching you watch Micheal Jackson for the  first time was mesmerizing and watching you imitate him is astonishing... Really Charli the "IT FACTOR" you have it!

4 years old and a P3 grad

Tuna noodle! I can't believe you are 4 years old and finished a whole year of preschool and what an amazing year it has been. You are such a big girl now and so independent. You can write all your letters and have mastered your name. You have amazing thoughts and an incredible imagination. You have turned our world upside down in the best way possible. Even writing this now gets me emotional because you have filled my heart and my life with happiness I never knew I could feel. You excel in all you do and are extremely artistic. You are in dance class, swim, soccer, and gymnastics. You have the most amazing sense of style and could not be more girly if you tried. I think you are still changing your outfits 20 times a day and you could never go anywhere without your lipstick and your crown, even soccer practice! You light up a room with your beautiful smile and your incredible acro-dance moves. Each day is filled with so much excitement and you love knowing all the day holds right when you wake up. You absolutely adore Danica and have started to be a motherly teacher to her as you are well aware you are the big sister and want her to do what you say. During the second half of the school year we decided to send you to school 3 days a week and 2 days to Kathy's so you could play with your sister and you love that, so we are going to have the same schedule next year for P4. We celebrated your birthday at Firezone and you were the lead fireman, it was an awesome party with so many friends. We spent Christmas and Spring Break back in Siesta Key and you had the best time swimming every day and playing in the sun. We made a special bead bracelet and necklace at the bead shop it was a really special day. Chad and Bronya bought you your own IPAD and Ugg boots for Christmas-- wow was that a special day for all of us. I think one day you might live in Florida, you talk about going there all the time. I am so happy that our family trips have given you such fond memories that you want to go back...so do I. This summer we will work on riding your bike without training wheels and continuing with camp, soccer, swim, and gymnastics. You will also be performing in 2 dance recitals. We are lined up with all kinds of fun parties and are all ready for the pool to open this weekend! Grandma's pool will be nice and warm for you and Danica this summer so we will look forward to spending a lot of time there. Uncle Eric is now a head football coach so this fall you can go on the field before games to see him and Mr. Hawk. Every day is such a blessing with you and Danica we are the luckiest people in the world and I honestly mean that with all that I am. Thank you for being so special, so wonderful, so amazing. Thank you for the amazing gift of you!

Here are a couple songs we created together:
Achoo Song
We just heard you say achoo,
We say God Bless you when you do,
We hope you feel well and you had a good sneeze,
Next time say excuse me please.

Pocky song:
How many pockies are in your rocky
How many tookies are in your pooky
How many tockies are in your rooka
Pooka Tooka Rocka

Come on Charli you can do it your a Collins beat em to it, Charli is number 1! Just do it!

3.2- First day of school

Well... I am sitting here typing in a puddle full of tears, not sure why they continue to flow--- they are a mix of so many emotions and the first of which is proudest Mom ever. Today is your first day of preschool  and we just dropped you off. I already know you are the most advanced little girl in that class. You remind us every day that you are "so big" and that you can do anything because you are "so big." You picked out the most fabulous dress and pants for school today and you could not be more colorful ,which couldn't fit you more perfect. You are the most colorful kid in the world and I love you so much. This summer has been truly amazing and every day you become smarter and more adventurous and you are absolutely so much fun to be around. We never know what is going to come out of your mouth. You have invented a name of Salex which is Grandma and Grandpa's name put together and you tell us that is your new baby; it warms my heart every time. We went to Bob Chinn's to celebrate Grandpa and you said out loud ,when the waiter came to the table to bring our food, "I really like this guy." So Funny!!! There is just no filter which I guess being a kid is all about. We went to the Brookfield Zoo and then to the Morton Arboretum to see the lego displays where legos were used to create all kinds of amazing animals and insects and you kept saying you like the alive animals better, but they did have a fun play land with slides that you got your self red in the face playing on so that was great.

 If you could go swimming every day you would and we tried to do just that at the "play pool" and the "shark pool."  We had so much fun running around in the water and playing with your water toys. You have so many fun ideas of what we can play and yet have the maturity to be independent and play by yourself which shows your creativity. You went to day camp  twice a week and did so many awesome projects and got to play with Ella and Molly your two best friends. Mondays were gymnastics which you loved and you really like the bars so you can hang!  We had your first dance recital and you did so well, you will continue with dance but you let me know you just want to go to the recital. I believe being on stage has brought on your new favorite hobby which is asking for us to to get everyones attention by saying, "Announcing dancing Charli," to which you dance around and sing and when you are finished you say "clap now." This take place multiple times during the day and in many different outfits which I will write about because your outfits should have their own blog and one day they just might. You also went to a splash pad and did a great job hitting a pinata at Davis's birthday party. Every party we went to this summer you met new friends and had such a great time. I think this summer was a blast for you from the Pietrowski pool to the Long Grove fests to the U of I wrestling reunion party and the turtle races; where you won a  Sox hat-- there was always something fun to do. You even had your first real babysitters with Charlee, Robyn, Nina, and Arlene and you did your nails with everyone of them! How fun!!!! Not to mention you saw your first movie in the theater, Inside Out, but you were more outside the theater than in. The movies you really love are Monsters University, The Sandlot, Toy Story 3, and Teen Beach 2. I'd say you have great taste in cinema.

Oh and as a big sister. I continue to brag, you are top notch. You are teaching Danica to walk and talk and you let us know you can help because you are the big sister. The two of you just laugh at each other and what adoring mirrored blue eyes you have for one another. The high pitched scream wars the world could do with out, but boy do you giggle after. I couldn't be more in love with you both....

 Charli you are absolutely something special. You write your name, you know all your letters, you can count "so high in the sky."  You are even a great handicapper at that track! You love to play waitress and tell us you don't have certain items or they are " a lil bit spicy." Yesterday you said you have to go potty and then you'll be back to take our order. You are such an individual with your own thoughts, your own likes, and a strong sense of self. You change your clothes whenever you want or 100 times per day and prefer to wear swim suits all the time. You accessorize your outfits with headbands, bracelets, and necklaces, and have to have nail polish and lip stick as well as a purse; which you just hoard stuff in to and take wherever we go. The lip stick addiction you pass on to others by asking to put it on them or by stealing  a kiss from someone with lipstick you like so that it will be on your lips. I am sure you will have your own fashion line at some point. You let me know just the other day while standing in a completely accessorized outfit and so proud of how you looked that you are "stylish." I can't help but smile in amazement every time I think of you. You are a beautiful little girl inside and out. Your vocabulary is awesome, you asked Grandma if she's like to "join us "while we were playing a game, you are so kind and honest. Everything is so simple and innocent. We went fishing in the back yard and you just kept asking "where are the fish?" I am with you honey after 2 minutes and no fish time to move on to something new. Nothing like a girl who knows what she wants and has no time for waiting. You are able to brush your own teeth, go potty by yourself, and sleep in your big girl bed. You like to drink from a cup with no lid but you'd prefer your water bottle---it is Hello Kitty and so is your back pack:) You are a clock work eater of cereal, quesadillas,  buttered noodles, goldfish, cheese, yogurt, fruit snacks, and green beans. It doesn't get more "what" than that, but I will take it. I can only hope every day you will eat your hot lunch at school, fingers crossed.

I know school is the window to to all the new opportunities and adventures that lie ahead.  We are already lined up with swim, gymnastics, soccer, and dance come fall. I can only hope every day you wake up with a smile  on your face and go to bed even happier with a bigger smile. I hope I am someone who makes you proud and that you feel my love 1000 times more than the 1000 times I tell you every day. You are my dream come true. I am so excited for every thing you are going to teach me. I will make sure we slow down and stop and smell the roses I want to cherish every moment I have with you, my special girl. I love you my  tooka rocka pooka peeke monkey monka moo...in the zoo.

                             Can't wait to hear all about your very first day.... I love you, miss you...