Bee Day at Dodge

Mia and I joined Evan at preschool today for the outside portion of class.
It was a sunny warm fall day. We hiked to the bee houses with 17 other preschoolers, his 3 wonderful and knowledgeable teachers (Marlais, Heather, & Kris,) and a sweet as pie student teacher (Annie.)

Once there, we filed into the little screened bee houses to keep us safe from stings. TJ, one of the naturalists at Dodge, donned his bee suit and stoked his smoker for us. Then he cracked open a hive. Bees seal their hives with probilis which is very much like a thick glue. It also has strong antibiotic qualities and keeps the bees healthy. This thick seal must be cracked when you remove the lid of the hive.

TJ took out a honey frame and brought it to our house for us to view. We saw a bevy of female worker bees busily making wax cells, filling them with honey and sealing them. The bees were just to busy to take note of us; they are now saving as much honey as they can to feed on through the long winter. We saw older honey (very dark) and "younger" honey (rather gold.) The more boisterous students asked a variety of questions. Evan sat quietly the whole time, taking it all in.
After we said our thank yous and good-byes to TJ, hiked down the farm road, across the prairie, around the west side of the prairie pond, along the ridge; one of the prettiest hikes at Dodge, especially this time of year. With 20 lbs of lovely on my back, I was pretty sore by the end of the venture, but the colors and the kids' energy made it worth it.

Evan loves to run on the trails at Dodge. He, Mia and I ran ahead and stopped at a great little climbing tree. Evan immediately boosted himself into it. As soon as the other kids saw this, there was 18 little bodies on this poor tree. Luckily, there were many great climbing trees in the area and the kids were able to spread out and really enjoy a natural jungle gym.

During our hike we also found some coyote scat, which many kids insisted on poking with various sticks. However, today's hike was not limited to animal biology. Just when we began to descend the ridge, we came along the world's largest puff ball mushroom. I have never seen a mushroom this large. All of the adults were flabbergasted, but, as you might expect, the children were entirely non-plussed!

The hike ended up being a lot longer than I think even the teachers expected. They like to start the year with shorter walks and build the childrens' endurance. However, the class's energy was not to be drained. As we rounded the last bend, all but two kids (Evan being one of those two) hid behind this rock and jumped out shouting as the last teacher came down the trail.

I think Evan is going to have a really fun year. I definitely enjoyed the day.

Evan's Camping Trip

I was hoping Jim would be able to write this post, but he has such a busy work week and this weekend will be Mia's first birthday, so not much time then either. Perhaps it will get edited down the road, but for now, I'll tell the story the best I can.

Jim and his mom took Evan up to the property Sunday night. The plan was to work all day Sunday on trails, camp overnight, work all day Monday and drive back Monday night. Since Owen has kindergarten now, Evan got to go all by himself. I was so happy that Evan was getting his chance. It's wasn't 2 nights in the shivering Utah dessert,
but it was about 50˚.

Evan chattered about a mile a minute when they returned. They reported that he slept great snuggled in between Daddy and Grandma. Jim didn't sleep quite as well. In the middle of the night, he heard the wolves howling in the distance.

The easiest way to get to the campsite is to portage.
Evan had to help Grandma with some of the rowing.
It is some type of hunting season now, so everyone was decked out in bright orange.

As they paddled across the pristine lake, an eagle perched in a dead tree. They watched it take flight.

The fall colors were at peak.

The weather during the day was sunny and mild.

Jim worked hard for two days, cutting a trail though these thick trees to the maple forest behind. Connie and Evan helped. Evan cleared lots of brush for Daddy. Jim used the GPS that my folks gave him to find the shortest path back to the forest.

The hard work will be worth it. The forest floor rolls through the trees, soft enough for a bed, covered in a blanket of grass.

And when you look up from that bed, this is what you see.
Total beauty. I can't wait to set my eyes on it.

My Heart Time 6

I am going to love this photo forever. My heart times 6 sitting on those stairs. Each little face expressing exactly why I love each of them: Evan thinking up a silly plan, Addie cute as a button and full of mischief, Margaux sitting back and enjoying all that goes on, Mia raising her eyebrows in an all knowing glance, Ellie teasing her Dad who is standing behind me, and Owen with his classic grin that he wears when he is truly happy. These 6 little faces steal my heart.

Our little one year olds, chillin' in the hot tub.
I can't believe how fast this year went.

Brothers loving up their nieces.







Jim & Tom are not just great dads, but they are also amazing uncles.

They had a good role model.

1, 2, 3, JUMP!

Owen and Ellie are in Kindergarten, Evan is in Preschool, Margaux & Mia are entering toddlerdome. Who said life was allowed to step on the accelerator?

Frolicking at Frontenac

It was one of those beautiful fall Sunday afternoons that you just can't waste. We decided to take a drive down to my favorite state park: Frontenac.

Frontenac State Park is just south of Red Wing and sits on the Mississippi River bluffs. You can look out over to Wisconsin and watch the trains run up and down the bank. From the bluffs the sea gulls look more like white caps. The raptors soar and dive and the river boats drift. The terrain varies from rocky bluffs to oak forest to prairie. It is a wonderfully peaceful place that has the most beautiful fall colors I have ever seen.

We packed a picnic and sat overlooking the river valley.

Frolicking at Frontenac

The last time we visited this park, Owen was 18 months old and I was 9 months pregnant with Evan. We made a video of Owen running down this same little path.

The boys were both very worried about seeing a Timber Rattlesnake. They were quite obsessive about it and Owen dragged his heels on the hike. We didn't see any.

Mia had a nice ride, but about halfway through got sick of the view. Jim and I switched in hopes that she could see a little better over my much shorter, but still pretty long, back.
We stopped at a look-out and attempted a timed family photo. The exposure was so bad, I had to change it to black and white.

Owen put his moody teenager persona away momentarily to hunt for acorns which he then spread at other well considered places along the path. It was great to see him out and enjoying nature. I worry that he doesn't get enough outside playtime at school.

Outside playtime is good.

First Lessons

The second day of school and Owen already brought something home. Now this I can live with! I love seeing what he's doing in school. At Dodge it was always questionable whether he actually participated in something or just sat on the couch looking at books for an hour or more. Today they read 5 Little Monkeys at Kindergarten, a book that even Mia is familiar with, but at Kindergarten they also made puppet props. Owen appeared to only have 4 monkeys, but we made do.
The next night Owen came home with this booklet. It was two sheets of A's. When I pulled it out of his backpack, the bottom two lines were blank. About questioning, I found out that he was suppose to write 10 a's. I assumed he was suppose to then take it back and show his teacher, but apparently we found out tonight that it was just for practice. They have now moved on to T's. I'm wondering if this is old hat to a lot of the kids and they are just whipping through the alphabet to see where everybody is. Owen knows all his letters, their sounds, and can figure out words between looking at letters and pictures, but writing... well, that's a whole different bird.

He also brought home another picture. I love that they are singing songs. We sang this song "All Together." In his picture, he colored three friends. They were Owen Yeager, Alex and himself. On the back he drew a picture of Connor, too. Guess Connor's in a different grade so he gets a different page. Anyway, in the picture Owen Y. and Alex have smiles and Owen has a frown. Now, I'm not sure Owen even knows about drawing frowns, but I think we should plan a weekend playdate with his old buddies regardless.

Tonight, Owen brought home a picture he colored from the story "The Kissing Hand." Another familiar story in our house. The picture has a hand in the sign language shape for "I love you." He did a really good job of coloring the picture. I was pretty impressed. I just love seeing work come home. Maybe I'll finally get to fill that art portfolio I bought last year.

Evan Goes To Preschool

It's been a really busy week here. Yesterday Owen went off to Kindergarten and today Evan starts preschool. Even though it was in the low 70's, Evan said he was cold. I think he was somewhat nervous. He was quiet on the drive over, but earlier in the day we talked about all the things he use to do in the room while visiting Owen. When we got there, we took the traditional Dodge 1st Day Photo.

We went in and found the cubby Evan picked out the other day. He figured out how to hang his backpack up on the hook. We used the bathroom, as we had talked about doing at the start of each school day to prevent an embarrassing accident which have been happening far too often lately. We washed hands according to the Dodge standards and then we looked at each area of the room. There was a new book area, play dough on the tables, water paints, some type of puzzle, new journals for writing plays, and funnels at the water table.

After looking at each area, we meandered back to the place Evan has loved most for the past two years when visiting. The water table was never very intriguing to Owen, but Evan loves to play in the sand and water. As we had walked around the room, Evan seemed slightly shy, but as soon as Kris started playing with him, I was invisible. I said bye, he waved and that was that. I hope everyday is as smooth as this one.

When I picked him up, he was hiding behind his backpack (just like Owen use to do) next to his neighbor cubby-mate. I'm not sure what she thought of his Buzz Lightyear backpack,

but I think she was even more "impressed" by super hero folder. She told me that he doesn't like Dare Devil, but she is mistaken. He loves all those scary looking guys. He is obsessed.

Before we left, Evan gave quick hugs to all of his teachers. Marlais had Owen last year, which is a great connection.

And a big hug for Kris, who might remind him a little of his Grandma Connie.

Owen's 1st Day of Kindergarten

Last night we set up our daily calendar to be ready for Owen's big day. We talked about how we both feel about him going to Kindergarten. We agreed that, although we both felt a little scared, we mostly feel happy and proud. So, as we start most school days:

It's Monday, September 13th, 2010. It's technically still summer. The sun is shining bright. It will reach a high of 72˚ today. Owen is taking the school bus for the very first time and we are SO proud.

Yes. I did say it would reach 72˚ today. Perhaps even a little warmer, but Owen really liked this new shirt and wanted to wear it. He picked out his outfit himself. Like all the Kindergarteners in the district, he has on a name tag with his address, phone number, school, homeroom and bus stop. They have to wear those for the first two weeks.

We delivered his school supplies two weeks ago, so all he has in his Batman backpack is a change of clothes for his locker and his lunch. I packed him a PBJ, Sun Chips, a cheese stick, a Fruitable juice box, and a mama* cookie. He was thrilled about the Sun Chips. Emily, the most competent Kindergartener ever, helped him open them. He didn't eat his cheese stick because he couldn't get it open, even though we practiced last night. I know what we're working on this weekend. That, and asking for help. It didn't matter though. He loved his lunch.

And we're off!

The bus picks Owen up at 8:42. It's a 5 minute walk to the bus stop. Today it was just him and me. Jim has Mondays off. Lucky, too, because Mia woke up about a minute before we walked out the door and Evan slept until 10:30! For the next couple of weeks, my wonderful neighbor, Linda, is going to pop over to the house while I walk Owen to his bus. After that, Jim will be able to change his schedule to start a little later so he can take Owen to the bus stop.

We were 7 minutes early for the bus and I really thought we had missed it. There are no other kids at his stop. Owen didn't mind at all. I remember always enjoying playing with the other kids whenever I got to take the bus. I was also hoping to meet some other kids and parents from our neighborhood that attend Farnsworth. Oh well. Owen's bus driver is a super nice guy. Owen hopped on the bus and sat in the front seat, right with another kid.

After school, I met Owen back at this stop. He told me the bus ride is his favorite part of the day. There is another kid in his class that rides his bus. Owen said when that kid (I think his name is Derrick) got on the bus, Owen scooted over for him. Then when that kid's friend came, they both scooted over and the three of them sat in the seat together. For some reason Owen was thrilled by this. He was also really excited about the fact that they got milk right before they got on the bus to come home. Owie picked chocolate. However, as soon he was off the bus, we had to run home because he had to go to the bathroom so bad. I know they want to send the kids home with something in their stomachs, but maybe a dry snack would be a better choice before getting on a bus or, at least, a bathroom break. I'm mostly kidding and not complaining. I just felt bad for Owen as he probably had no idea how long he was going to have to hold it!

This morning, after he got on the bus, I ran home, hopped in the car and drove over to the school to meet him. When Owen got off the bus, his Spanish teacher greeted him and wrote his bus number on his hand in permanent marker. Then he joined the shuffle into the building. He didn't even see me as I walked right next to him. He was studying the new writing on his hand. I had to tap him on the shoulder to get his attention. When he looked up, his face lit up.

I was glad I went to the school. Although the directions during open house seemed straight forward, they changed the meeting place from the cafeteria to the gym. Many kindergarteners were totally lost. I soon had a troop of 4 kids. The one holding my hand, wasn't even mine, but she was sure happy somebody was going to take her to the right spot.

After the last bus arrived, the teachers had the kids line up and walk into the cafeteria for breakfast. Owen ate some graham crackers and drank some milk, but he already had breakfast. We sat there for at least 20 minutes. He started to get a glazed look in his eyes. Emily, the adorable little girl next to him, showed Owen how and where to throw away his food. She went to 4 year old kindergarten at Farnsworth last year. It's something we're considering for Evan.

Finally we all walked down to the room. Farnsworth is an aerospace magnet, which is really neat, but too much info. to share right now. Mrs. Xiong is Owen's teacher. He requested her and I think it's going to be a super fit. Last night, Owen was on the phone with his cousin Ellie. We overheard him telling her that he thinks his favorite parts of school will be play time and learning to read. Then there was a pause and he said, "I don't think I'll have to sit for an hour." The Kindergarten language arts block is two hours long and they also have another 20 minutes of phonics! I think Owen will learn to read very soon and I can't wait.

Mrs. Xiong invited the kids to hang up their backpacks and sit down. Owen sat towards the back next to Mario. Mario was the first kid he sat next to at breakfast this morning. Owen tried to help him open his locker. I don't think either of them introduced themselves, but maybe they both think they can just become friends by osmosis. Cute!

Mrs. Xiong said the parent are welcome to stay or we could say goodbye to our kindergarteners and leave. Owen turned and waved. I figured that was my cue. None of the other parents seemed to be moving. I headed to the door, took this quick video of them singing hello and ducked out the door. At home, Evan would request that I play this video over and over. I think he's going to miss Owen, but on a good note, he has mesmerized the Hello song.

Outside the street was totally quiet. I wanted to stand and watch through the window. My heart was in my throat for a moment as I looked back at the school I just entrusted with one of the most important persons in my life. I'm so excited for him, but I miss him already. I'm sad for the days that are behind us. Later today, as I was chatting with my neighbor, she teased me that 5 years is long enough for Owen to be stuck home with me. This time when the tears welled up, it was out of laughter. She's totally right. He is ready and he needs this.

I realize this post is full of tangents and that is perfect for the way I feel. My emotions are being pulled in so many directions tonight. I am officially a mom of a school aged child. We're starting a new chapter in our lives, but I think it will be a pretty good one.

*Mama cookies, as opposed to Daddy Cookies, are vanilla creme filled cookies. Jim always requests Oreos, which I can't stand. One day I bought the vanilla cremes that my grandfather always stashed in the cupboard and Owen loved them as much as I do. Funniest thing is that Jim's Grandpa use to stash his Oreos, too. But he use to stash them in a coffee can, high up on a shelf in the garage. What's the difference between "stash" and "hide?"

Save the Sentiment for Tomorrow

Owen starts school tomorrow, so we have spent the last week trying to have as much casual fun as possible. One night we played with our friend Alex. Wednesday we had Action Jackson and his sidekicks Mom and Cha Cha over to play. The boys quickly got into serious good guy/bad guy mode. Everything from Super Heroes to Toy Story to Diego was put in the mix. They had such a good time, they hardly knew the rest of us were there.

Charlotte is 21 months old and fully mobile on her own, but she wanted in and out of this jumper all afternoon. She's so darn cute, I would try to get in it myself if she asked.

Mia has recently become fascinated with books. When you read her one, she'll bounce on your lap when it's finished as if to say, "More! More!" When Charlotte brought her mom a book to read, Mia cruised her way across the room to get in on the action.
One of the biggest hits this week at our playdates were these punch balloons. Everybody loves them and they cost a dollar for two! Mia loves to bat them as she crawls and use them as a pillow. Evan loves to bop them in the air like a volleyball. Owen loves to try and punch them with the rubberband. It's fun for all ages.

Thursday night Owen stayed overnight at Grandma & Grandpa's. Friday he went up to the top of the Foshay Tower with Grandpa. He spent the whole day with them. It may be awhile before he gets to do that again. He's had so many fun times staying over with them. Tonight when he was talking to Ellie on the phone about school, he was telling her that when he rides the bus "it makes (him) so happy to just stare out the window and talk with Grandma Connie." He told her how he hopes he'll find a friend to talk to on the bus. Me too, peanut. Me too.

Anyway, save the sentiment for tomorrow. Friday, while Owen was off having a blast, we had our own bit of fun with Samantha and Boston. Evan loved playing with Samantha. They were busy the entire time making up all sorts of games with rules that only 4 (and almost 4) year olds understand.

Meanwhile, Mia and Boston crawled all over each other.
And then Saturday, we had The Lakins over for dinner. Well, actually, we had Anna and Charlie overnight while Paul reunited with his Minneapolis buddies. Charlie is as busy as his dad. He doesn't like to sit still at all. Anna is cherishing a cuddle here from Mia. Although Charlie isn't big into cuddling, I've never seen a happier, more content baby.
After the babies went to bed, Owen and Evan finally got Anna all to themselves.

I think it has been a relaxing, but fun end to our summer. Tomorrow my peanut goes to Kindergarten. I can't believe our carefree days are behind us. We walked to the bus stop tonight to see how long it will take us. I packed his lunch. They took a bath. I move from chore to chore, wondering if I've prepared him enough for the days ahead. Will he make friends? Will he like school? Will he be happy? Will he do well? For the first time, it is out of my hands. I have to save the sentiment for tomorrow or I'll never make it through tonight.