graduation

 Haley's pathway to graduation has definitely looked different than most.

There has literally been blood, sweat, and tears to get to this point.

She attended three different grade schools, one middle school, and two high schools.

She consistently amazes us.

She is now going to transition to a new phase of life, and once again, it's a little scary.

But in true Haley fashion, I'm sure she will do things her own way and continue to show us just how uniquely wonderful she really is!

40,50,80

I turned 40.

Karen turned 50.

 Ashley and Robyn planned a super fun birthday party, complete with wheelchair races.

Ashley was the winner!!

 Grandma Thomas turned 80!

The Thomas siblings had a fabulous party for her.

There were lots and memories, laughs, and tears celebrating Norene's amazing life so far.

We have three frozen cakes in our freezer and more celebrations to come!!

It's a good thing I love cake!

playgroup

Wednesday was our last playgroup at our house - forever.

Forever.

That's it.

No more.

I have been involved with countless playgroups, babysitting exchange groups, walking groups (with kids in strollers), and preschool exchanges.

How many bums have I wiped, messes have I cleaned up, and drinks have I poured for children that are not my own?

A lot.

The barf is the worst.

Wait, scratch that.

Diarrhea is the worst.

The best part is the talking.

They crack me up.

Nothing better than talking to a preschooler.

Some groups are more enjoyable than others.

This last group with Quinny has been a delight.

I have loved them, but I must admit, after 18 years, I am ready to retire from playgroup mom.

Farewell my little playgroup friends!

I have played with you, cleaned you, fed you, and loved you!!

16 and ready to roll

I kept asking Robyn what she wanted for her birthday, and the only reply I ever got was....

"My license."

Well, she got it.

She also got the full MVD treatment.

She was down at the office for about three hours Monday morning, missing four class periods.

They mixed up her number at one point, and that put her at the end of the line for the behind-the-wheel test.

Thanks for the extra hour, MVD.

When she was done, there was a smile on her face, unlike the poor soul behind her in the picture below.

 She was taking her driving test and had a lady back out into her - ouch!

Congratulations, Robyn!

Let the solo driving commence.