Benny's birthday

Benny's birthday fell on the first football Sunday of the season this year, which meant a football themed day!

We grabbed some donuts after church.

He opened some presents. 

Bonnie helped me prep some football food. 

Then all the family came over to watch the commanders game and eat food - it was so fun! 

Even Kirsten got in on the action.

Unfortunately the Commanders lost, and so did the Cowboys after that. It was still a great day and we are so thankful for this man!

Kids' artwork

It's time to clear off the kids' doors of artwork now that a new school year and new art is making it's way home. We have to do this for Bonnie 2-3 times a year with everything she creates. Below are some of my favorite. 

A painting of Maggie that she did at Grandma's house. 

Her leprechaun that she entered for the virtual talent show last school year. 

Some ears of corn.

This fun 'favorite things' valentine craft she did.

A picture she made of her and Benny. 

A reading prompt she did at school. When asked what she likes to do on a cloudy day, she ignored the question and wrote about sunny days - I feel that. 

A fish she made in art class that reminds me of one I did when I was in school (a magnet on my grandparent's fridge). 

And a butterfly.

Riser produces much less artwork, so his door consists of work from the last year. He still shows very little interest in doing any sort of arts/crafts. 

This was a fun marble paint activity he did with Grandma.

This was a valentine he tried to make all by himself (I drew the heart and he tried to trace it).

I believe this is some sort of duck.

A watercolor painting. 

And the first thing he's ever done that has actually taken any sort of shape - I believe he said it was Eleanor!

Riser's first day of preschool

This is a milestone school year as Riser started preschool! He wasn't feeling too excited about the idea of school throughout the summer. Thankfully after his open house he started getting excited. His open house was the day before the first day of school so he got to see his classrooms, teachers, and classmates. 

Riser and his teacher, Ms. Jessee. 

Exploring his classroom. 

The next day he was excited for his first day!

We got a couple pictures from the day. It sounds like he had a lot of fun.

So far he has liked school and he has adjusted well. His favorite part is the snacks. We are very excited and proud of him!

Duck, North Carolina

Over the summer I went on a weekend beach trip with some friends to the Outer Banks. It was so fun to get away - we enjoyed lots of beach time, reading, leisurely prepared meals, crafts, and long walks. It was wonderful!