September 16, 2010

Happy Birthday, Merilyn Grace!

Photo taken April 2007

Photo taken September 2007, with cousin Johnna Belle

Another photo with Johnna, September 2010

We had a small celebration for Merilyn on her birthday at Red Robin. Gramma and Grampa came, as well as her friend, Alexis. She has definitely gotten into the singing... it's all about her! :)

On the weekend, we had another party with all of the family. Grandma Sandy made a fabulous Strawberry Shortcake cake, Merilyn got more fun gifts, and she got to run around with her cousins. The highlight of the night was the dollhouse from Grandpa Mike. It came with all of the parts and pieces and all of the girls wanted to play with it right away! It was quickly filled with a collection of dolls, toys, and more furniture... Merilyn was in heaven.

Back to School

Can you tell I'm back at work? I started this awhile ago... and finally had time to get it posted!

We've been back into the school year for a whole week! Yay! Things seem to be settling in well. (Ask me again in a couple of weeks when Ali has started bringing home homework and my work load has increased!!)

Ali's principal called us the Friday before school started to invite her in to meet her teacher. Ali was so excited and felt very special. We've definitely been impressed with the principal. We're so grateful that after last year's drama, she's proactive about getting Ali comfortable with a new teacher, grade, etc. (And willing to take the time!)

And... so far Ali's favorite thing about each day has been "school!" Love it! She's jumped right in without hesitation or anxiety. Everything is a joy for her at this point. (Again... ask us in a few weeks!)

Merilyn also started school. She's in the 4-year-old class at the church where she was last year. She also has the same teacher, which thrilled Meri! Miss Meri doesn't have any problems about being unsure of new things. She marched right in with her hands on her hips and announced, "Teacher! I'm here!" Let the party begin.

We found these signs on Ali's bedroom door yesterday...

Alison has developed a need for organization. Everything needs to be in its place; the bed's made, clothes are in their proper drawers, toys are lined up in a particular way... And, Merilyn... just isn't in the same space at this point in her life. On the one hand I can understand how the rules "No touching" and "Merilyn is banned from this room" go together. But, I'm also relieved that Ali isn't a real stickler about the "banning" rule, as they're playing house together right now. Or school, or "Camp Rock", or whatever it is that they come up with. I love their imaginations. And, the need for organization! (Although, I'm not sure about the jeans & long shirts rule?!)