And just like that...

My baby is off to school. I'm not sure I can write this without crying, and I know there are no words that can adequately describe what I'm feeling, but I'm going to give it a quick shot. I truly can not believe my sweet, darling, wonderful oldest son is starting school! Today was his first day and trust me, I cried. I know he'll love it and do just fine, it's just so hard to let go of him. He's my boy. My baby. My love. And to hand him off to the world to begin to encourage him to stand on his own two feet is hard. He is at a wonderful school and has Oliver in his class, which is a ton of fun for him. But it's still hard to see him leave the shelter of our home every day to face the world. I am positive he'll be great and I fully know this is an essential part of life and growing up, it just came way sooner than I would like. And although I'm going to miss him like crazy, I am also extremely excited to see him grow and learn and become the individual God has created him to be. I know God has huge plans for this boy as he grows, and am excited too watch and encourage him through that! Since I was right and that really didn't even begin to describe what's truly in my hear right now, I'll just get right to the pictures. First, we had a much anticipated going to school dinner last night at which Owen got to choose the menu: ravioli, salad, and garlic bread. The placemats are supposed to resemble notebook paper, however I can't take credit for them. I stole the idea from my sister. Thank, Al!


 

And here is the boy on his big day:
 

Owen, my boy, we are so incredibly proud of you and are excited for what's to come!

Since I haven't blogged much this summer...

I think I'll make up for it today!  Here are a few more pictures from our day at the beach:

It doesn't get any better than this...

I know I say that a lot, but it's true. It truly is the simple things in life that bring the most joy to my heart, and in this instance that simple joy is a family trip to the beach. We have spent the past few days at the beach with C.J.'s side of the family and are thoroughly enjoying ourselves! See for yourself:   

For the record...

A few days ago, Owen had his five year check up. Instead of finding a baby sitter for Silas, I thought it would be a fine idea to bring him with us. I should have known better. After all, entertaining a two year old for half an hour in a 10x10 foot cube with nothing but a faucet and a whole bunch of stuff that is off limits is no easy task. And as always, Silas was his active, entertaining, mischievous self. As the doctor was leaving (he had been in with us for all of 10 minutes) he said to me in all seriousness referring to Silas, “If you ever run out of steam with him and need some support, we have a great parent coaching program.” I about died laughing right in front of him. Did it really only take ten minutes with Silas to realize he’s more than a handful? Don’t get me wrong, he can be the sweetest funniest kid around and can absolutely melt your heart. But, clearly, he also keeps us on our toes! Also, when the doctor had finished with Owen’s check up, he said to him, “Owen, you are a perfectly healthy boy.” To which Owen replied, “I know. I knew my mom would make sure I was.”