Llama Graduation

Well, we finally reached it; the end of preschool/daycare.   Alaina officially "graduated" from her preschool on Friday.   After graduation, we packed up her things, turned in our keys and waltzed out the door with a $2000/month pay raise.

Seriously though, I was a bit sentimental about her finishing.   We have been going to that school for 8 years.   We knew some of the teachers really well, and I think it was an excellent place for them to grow and learn.  

But we did limp to the finish line.   With the relocation of my hospital, it became more difficult for me to help with drop offs and pick ups.   Jason has also taken on new administrative responsibilities at work, and he was not so thrilled with this increased burden.   So we will be glad to have both of the kids in Marin with our au pair this summer.  Alaina will do a special camp at our elementary school for incoming kindergartners, so hopefully that will also help her transition into kindergarten for the fall.

The graduation ceremony, meanwhile, was very cute.   They prepared songs and a short video.  And afterwards there was a party complete with a Photo Booth.  

So, congrats to Alaina.   Our family's preschool chapter has ended.  Here's to upcoming kindergarten adventures!

Room Redo

We spend the better part of the day reorganizing Ethan's room.  
I should have taken a "before shot", but trust me, it was a disaster zone.   Piles of toys, furniture he had grown out of, old papers, trash, etc etc.  Time for a change.  

It was a big project, but worth the effort for sure.   The bed and dresser are in a new spot. And we moved a big bookcase from our office into his room to give him shelves for his his books and trinkets.  Here's the new look:

We are going to try to sell his old bookshelf, table, and air hockey set on craig's list, and will use the money to purchase a few new decorations....stay tuned!

Alaina the Ballerina

Alaina has recently taken up ballet.   We have this very cute ballet school for little kids near our house.  About a year ago,  she tried it out, but was overwhelmed and wouldn't participate.   But she still had an interest in ballet, and I think after seeing the movie "Leap", she asked to try again.

There were some nervous tears at the first class, but she got control of her emotions and completed it--and even seemed to really enjoy herself.
I have to say it is really cute and really sweet.

I hope that she sticks with it--it is cool for her to do something that her brother does not do!