Bye-bye 1st grade!

And just like that he's off to 2nd grade. I don't know why, but 2nd grade just feels so much older than 1st...tho I know I'll say that again next year when we're in the same position. Micah's had such a great year and I've seen him really come out of his shell in his class. Sometimes not in the best way (poor Mrs. Newman and her talkative group!) but he really formed some good little friendships in his class and it's been fun to watch him grow. I'm also excited that Reid will be at the same school with Micah next year - that makes it feel even more real...like my boys are really growing up!

The littles decided to buy small bouncy balls today and gave one to each of the kiddos getting off the bus with the phrase "hope you enjoy bouncing in to summer" lol. I just love it - yay summer!!

End of Preschool for Reidees!

And just like that, my middle is done with preschool...next up Louise White and Kindergarten! It's hard to believe that next year he'll be at the same school with Micah and that Gemma will be in preschool herself. As I've said many times before, I sure wish there were a way to put a pause button on some times in space or just slow things down. I know most parents probably feel this way at some point in their journey. We have entered a little bit of an easier stage as of late, getting out of the baby-need-naps-every-day-can't-stay-up-late schedule, and it's for sure a bit freeing! It would be nice now though if that time piece could slow down a bit while the kids still like us and aren't embarrassed by their mom and dad 😉. It's not though and with that, I've accepted that sweet Reid is moving on.

What a blessing this year has been for him. He's just flourished in school this year and created so many amazing memories. Mrs. Holmes and Immanuel Lutheran has been just the best thing for him the past two years and I feel eternally grateful for such a great place for him. Christian and I both agree that there is a part of us that is truly sad with him leaving his school and moving on to a public school. Reid's come home and told us so much about Jesus and the Bible and what he's learned. His teachers have loved on him and their love for Christ has been evident in everything they do and it has transferred over to the kids. Not having that next year leaves us filling a little empty and sad, tho we know he will do just fine. We are thankful for the friendships and education he's had this year and also thankful Gemma will be starting that journey next year.

So without further ado, I present you with our newest kindergartner in the Lauffer household. Congratulations Reid Daniel! You have had an amazing year. Mrs. Holmes has mentioned how much you like to participate, how the girls are "sweet" on you, how smart you are, and how empathetic you are towards your fellow friends in the class. Truly, I can't ask for anything more than that buddy. You have made Mommy and Daddy SO proud this year and we just love you to pieces.

Celebrating Micah!

We got to celebrate our eldest today with a "plan b" party that ended up turning out pretty "sweet" (in the words of our 7yr old). You see, Mother Nature has a thing for Micah and his birthday parties every.single.year. (I apologize to anyone else that had outdoor plans today during the monsoon! The Lauffer's take full credit😬, tho the sun did come out within 15 min of the party ending 🙄🤦🏼‍♀️). So late last night Christian and I are putting together an indoor Olympic "heptathlon" for our sports loving boy and his friends. Christian said that if we ever go in to party planning business, we should call ourselves "Plan B Parties" because we've gotten so good at it, except that no one would want to hire us, lol. 

Despite losing out on games at the park, the kids seemed to have a blast (and the parents are now exhausted 😴.) Micah was the most excited I think I've ever seen him around friends. He was truly happy and said it was the best party EVER and it just made my heart so happy seeing him so happy. Parenting continues to remind me of how God might feel looking down on us, his children. When we're so happy, He is happy, and it brings him such joy and contentment. What a beautiful picture. 

Happy [early] 7th birthday Micah! We love you so much. And thanks to all his friends that came to help us celebrate him today. We are so blessed!