Dad's home

You've been such a trooper during dad's deployment.  Being the oldest, you certainly understand the most and you've done your best to get excited about talking to him on the phone and computer.  You draw him pictures and talk about him all of the time.  During the last few months you will say that you miss dad and have asked how long Halloween is away the entire deployment.  We've told you that dad was coming home before Halloween to try and prep you on how long he'd be gone, and I know that you've looked forward to it.



Dad's Homecoming from Melanie Lafeen on Vimeo.
Dad came home in the afternoon on Friday, and it was the funniest thing to watch you.  The whole night and the entire next day you didn't leave his side for a minute.  Anywhere dad went, you went too.  It's been really nice having him back and I know that he missed you so much while he was gone!

Pre-K

I guess last year you went to Preschool, but THIS year, you're in Pre-K.  It's at the same place, with most of the same teachers, so go figure.

You just LOVE school!  And, what's not to love.  Your life's ambition is to 'go fun places with toys' every day, more than once a day, in fact, so school fits the bill.  Miss Leslie, the head teacher is the same from last year and Miss Shannon is the second full time teacher there (you got to know her on occasion last year).  During orientation I noticed that at least 2 boys from last year were in your class, including Joshua.  You didn't really talk about Joshua last year, but from the looks of it, you guys were 'best buds' (his words when he saw  you).

Here's your first day shots (Kate has to get in on the action as well!)

What a week!

Wheeler Farm, Hogle Zoo, endless days with Jodi and Stella, dinners and sleepovers at Grandma and Grandpa Hardcastle's house and time in the mountains.  We had a very busy week and you loved every minute of it.  (And couldn't believe that I didn't want to go anywhere on Monday).

I'm just throwing up some pictures now...

 This was your hopscotch.

Mud Run

Jessica helps (or, is the boss as you put it) put on a 5K with her work every year in Davis County.  We've been going for quite a few years.  Last year they started doing the kids run in the mud.  And I think their goal every year is make it muddier than the last.

Last year you won your age group.  There were a TON of kids this year and you had to move up the older age bracket, but you still did a great job.  Especially considering some of the water/mud was up to your knees!

Secret Ninja Skills

This video is from Gordon, I guess you were showing him your ninja skills.

Secret Ninja Skills from Melanie Lafeen on Vimeo.