Five to One: January 2012

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

My Star Student

Her silly pose

Her nice pose

At the end of every month each teacher selects from among their students

one Star Student. Someone who has

been an example of an

exceptional student, or has greatly improved her performance in class.

This month Ivy was chosen from her

third grade class.

I was told yesterday that she was getting the award, so

this morning I made sure to actually get dressed, and to dress the little girls.

(which I never do by the way, I'm a pajama driver)

I grabbed the stroller and camera bag, and off we went to school.

Ivy was very confused that I was there. She said to her teacher

"My moms here, why is my mom here?"

The look on her face was priceless as the Principal announced her name.

She was so surprised and excited.

I am so proud of her. She has really struggled with

school this year. I know that making the change

from less play time to more work time has

been very hard on her. She has come a long way, and

I couldn't be a happier mommy!

the other third grade award winners.

Saturday, January 14, 2012

This last Christmas was an interesting one for sure. I decided to take a winter-mester class during the Christmas break. Which means 3 weeks of class, 5 day a week starting the week before Christmas. Jason was such a trooper to watch the kids all afternoon and evening till I got home. The class met from 1-4:50. Which meant me leaving at 12, and not getting home till 5:30-6. I'm glad I took the class. I have learned more in this class than I thought possible. It really has been invaluable. I now have the skills to edit my photos like a pro. I find that so exciting.
as for the Holiday itself. Christmas was wonderful. We had our first holiday at home with out extended family, since we were married. I hate to say I loved it, but it was so relaxing, and nice. I don't think I'd like to do it that way every year, but now I don't fear it.
We did go over to Shawn's house Christmas night. We met up with Shawn and Janet's family, and Nikki and Josh came with the kiddos. That was just about perfect.
The day after Christmas, we loaded the kids up and drove to San Antonio. I got us great deal on a hotel just outside in Castroville. The drive out was longer than I expected with the holiday traffic, but it was the best surprise for the kids. We didn't have any of the after Christmas Blues that we usually get the day after.
Tuesday we took the kids down town, and saw the Alamo. We had a fun time. Jason and I enjoyed the history lesson, and the kids liked playing on the cannons. We also walked along the river walk, and had dinner at the Rain Forest Cafe. I think it was one of the best family vacations we have had. We even decided that the next time we have a quiet Christmas we are going on a day after trip again. It really was just what this little family needed. Me especially, since I only got one week off from school. Did I mention the hotel deal I got included a $50 spa credit at the hotel spa? Yea, the facial I got was WONDERFUL!