Eleanor's First Day of School

How did my first born get this old? Seriously? I'm so excited for Eleanor to start school because I know she is going to LOVE school but I'm also a bit sad for her. I hate that she will no longer be free to play all day and enjoy staying home with us. I hate that she might experience mean or unfair things. As a mom I want to try and shield her from many things but I know that's not whats best for her.  I know she needs to get out there and experience all she can. Geez, I think I'm making it sound like she's going off to NYC for her first year of college!!

I had a lot of fun taking Eleanor school shopping. I thought for sure she and I would go at it big time but much to my surprise we only disagreed on a few items (and I was pretty proud of myself for giving in and letting her add PLENTY of cheetah print to her wardrobe!) Eleanor knew just what she wanted to wear on the first day of school...her white shorts, white tank-top and white shoes. That's so Eleanor!

She has three little kids from our ward in her class and she is very happy about having her all time best friend, Lilly, in her class. These two have been inseparable for the past year. I just hope Mrs. Parsons doesn't have too much trouble with them!

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Jude

I'm having a hard time wrapping my brain around the idea that my sweet little Jude is one year old! How did this past year go by so fast? I honestly love this little boy. From day one, he has been so much fun to be around. Here are some of my favorite things about this little one year old baby:

* His dimples and smile. I can't get enough of both!

* His new little chuckle. It's the cutest thing ever.

* His love for shoes. She is always wearing them and if by chance he's not wearing them, he'll go find a pair and bring them to me.

* How he lays down on the floor to drink his milk.

* How much he loves his sisters.

* How he waves to everyone he sees. A trip to the grocery store is filled with hundreds of waves!

* His hugs. The boy loves to cuddle.

* His love for baths. After dinner he'll run to the bathtub.

* How he points to things.

* His little face when he does something he knows he shouldn't and his little face when he gets a bite of chocolate or a sip of pop.

* How he can tease with the best of them.

* How he loves to play.

* His easy going personality.

I could make this list go on and on but unfortunately this little boy is at my side and doesn't want me on the computer any longer!

Happy Birthday sweet little boy! We love you so so much!