Eight More Days

Excuse my absence yesterday. We have a lot to do in order to prepare for the first day of school, which will happen in 8 days! So we spent yesterday going through clothes, making a list of back to school necessities and venturing out to find the best deals on shoes.

I am really proud of the fact that we only spent two hundred, fifty dollars on everything! Of course, I did not buy one single article of clothing. We only bought shoes and backpacks. After sorting out clothing, I realized that the kids all have clothes that they can wear. No, they aren't new. No, they probably aren't the latest fashions. Yes, they fit and are hole free! Now that we have five kids in school (Aiden starts preschool on Wednesday,) we have to hear a lot more whining about wanting cool clothes and Heelys. Lucky for us, we've learned to ignore their pleas.

When Marlie started Kindergarten, I ordered tons of outfits from Gymboree. She had little zebra striped boots, a matching coat and was the most adorable little girl in the class. My how times have changed! Now, we have seven kids to outfit. Now, we get hand me downs from friends. We buy only clothes on sale and shoes that will last the longest. One thing remains the same, however. She is still the cutest little girl in the class and so are her brothers. Of course, I am biased!

We are all looking forward to the start of school. The kids got awesome teachers. Phillip's Kindergarten teacher moved up to first grade so he will have her again, which he is so excited about. Marlies starts the GATE program...yes I am bragging. Daniel is longing to see his friends again and Trenton is stoked that he shares his first grade class with his best friend (also his partner in crime.) I'm praying that I do not have to visit the Principal too many times for his antics. We threatened to switch classes if he and his friend get into any trouble. We'll see how long that lasts! Aiden gets to start preschool (even though it is only 1 day a week,) and he is already wearing his back pack around the house. He can write his name, spell, read words and name his colors/shapes/numbers. It is nice to have a big sister who loves to play school. Marlie has taught Aiden a lot of what he knows and he loves having her for a teacher.

So the countdown has begun. We are all excited about this year. I'm a little nervous to see how Daniel does without his medication, but I'm sure it will be fine. For now, we will enjoy our last eight days or relaxation and no homework!