tiny hands and tiny feet

This weekend we were invited to attend a baby shower and "welcome to the family" party for Cousin Itchy's newest baby boy: Benjamin.

Pin the tail on Tigger..................oh my

Cousin Itchy showing Baby Benji's footed jammies

Cousin Itchy was beaming with delight over his newest sunshine. 

He was joyful of the gifts comprising of teeny tiny baby pjs, small blankets, boxes of diapers and colorful toys.

Cousin Itchy has such a great sense of humor and kept the banter light and funny.

We arrived with more than our usually family of five but we had a 'plus two' since Miss Katia (Sweetheart's friend) and Miss Deja (Fifi's friend) joined us as well. (they spent the weekend with us) Although we missed the luncheon, we were treated to cake. 

Helium balloons in the hall

Princess Fifi and Miss Deja laughing over Cousin Itchy's jokes

Sweetheart, Cookie and Miss Katia await cake to arrive at their table

(http://video.about.com/entertaining/Baby-Shower-Centerpiece.htm)
The mandatory diapered center piece

CONGRATULATIONS COUSIN ITCHY and WELCOME to BABY BENJAMIN

1st day of school

On the eve of first day of school

Every year we review school rules and what is expected.

I offer up my observations, comments, suggestions and advice for a great year.

Then I asked my children if they have any for each other.

(elementary / middle / high school)

This is what they said:

Don't judge a teacher or class on the first day.

 Most likely, later, it will turn out to be your best class and your most favorite teacher

Its great to receive a compliment, but its even better to give one.

If you smell something strange in middle and high school: it's just a MIXTURE of axe body spray, perfume and pimple cream.

Don't jump down stairs with your hands in your pocket.

When teachers are mad, they don't blink.

If the teacher comes into the classroom and announces they're in a bad mood--Don't ask to go to the bathroom!!

---------------------------------------------------------------

Today is the first day of school

The children woke bright and early, well rested, prepared and ready to get back in the classroom.

They have breakfast in there belly and smiles on their faces

We begin our morning routine with our daily route to the various schools.

As I drop them off at school, I give them a kiss, I always leave them with these parting words:

Have a great day

Do your absolute best

Represent yourself well

Be a friend and make a friend

Make good choices

Mommy loves you more than you'll ever know......I love you.

♥♥♥♥

Then I give them more kisses in their hand and tell them to store those kisses in their pockets for later.

If I forget to kiss their little hands they always remind me.

"Bye Mommy, I'll miss you"

"Au Revoir Shi-ma, I love you" 

"Mom, we love you and miss you more; every minute we're gone" 

Sweetheart and Cookie head to school hand in hand........ *tears, sniffle*

I have a lump in my throat with great big tears in my eyes.

 I miss my children as they head off to school to learn and grow.

We're now officially back to the daily routine of drop off and pick up. 

All the while missing them and looking forward to seeing them at days end.

Below is a funny parody video that makes us laugh.........

(Parody of Rihanna and Eminem : "Love the way you lie")