Kicking off November, we spent a quiet evening writing down things we are all thankful for. Lots of tiny hands decorating colorful leaves to share with family. The tree rests on our kitchen counter~ the center piece of each day. At night, it lights up to shine bright. There is always so much to be grateful for...sometimes seeing it is an impactful reminder!
Dearest Salem Lucille,
Sweet baby girl you are not such a baby anymore. You have emerged as a “little kid” but not yet a “big kid” as you told me a few days ago. I liked that perspective a lot better than you thinking you’re a big girl!
You are a big 1sr grader though~ taking spelling and reading tests, doing more difficult math, and even cheering for the Mustangs. You got to lead the Pep Rally as well as the Mustang Mile walk. You’ve led some fabulous cheers for the Rams football this season too.
You continue to flourish at dance~ you’re dancing in a small group jazz, large hip hop, large jazz and a trio with Jojo & Vivie. You are a dancing machine! I can’t wait to see you compete this season.
This will be your first year in competitive gymnastics. You’re competing Xcel Bronze~ all four events including bars, beam, floors & vault. You’ve been working so hard on your routines and extra tricks!
Your growth in life still continues to amaze me. You do love your independence and keeping up with your siblings. But you also love a good hug or snuggle with mommy. You still like to have sleepover and stuffed animals. You continue to find comfort in my hugs and reassurances. I hope that never changes.
You’re a kind hearted, thoughtful, bright little lady. I am so proud to be your mommy and I pray that you continue to learn & love everything about life!
I love you!
Love,
Mommy
To wrap up fall break, we took a morning hike along the Goose Creek Trail in Tom Sawyer Park. It was a chilly one but we made the most of the fall foliage & pebbled trail. The kids used sticks as walking canes, found ant homes, and took in the fresh air. Sometimes it truly is the best medicine to get reset and ready to go back to school. We will definitely be back on a warmer fall day to explore more of the park and its adventurous family trails.
We had a non-traditional pumpkin picking adventure that was equally fun over fall break. With a bit of a time crunch and sports obligations, we were able to squeeze in a little afternoon stop at Paul's Fruit Market to add pumpkins to our fall decor. The kids searched through rows & rows of pumpkins and gourds finding the perfect picks for the fall look that they wanted. We came home with a beautiful array of various colors, shapes, & sizes.
After their hard work and lifting with their muscles to pay for the pumpkins, we treated ourselves to some pumpkin chocolate chip bundt cake. Tailgate style with our pumpkins in tow. The traditions continue and create lasting memories even if they're off the beaten path :)
Dearest Brighton Kevin,
My son, my miracle baby~ today you are 9 years old. Many days I feel like you are still that little newborn that I prayed so hard for to be healthy and safe. Other days you’re like a little old man in all the mature ways. Most days, you’re somewhere in between. I truly soak up all the days with you.
You’re in 3rd grade loving every minute of Mrs. Schulten. You are excelling in school and thriving on independence for homework & study skills. You also love being a leader in class.
In your 6th year of summer swim team, you completely crushed it at City Meet. Finishing in 2nd place in the boys 8&u backstroke, you swam your little heart out! All three of your relays finished in 3rd place which isn’t bad for non year round swimmers. Mostly you continue to be a team player in all things that you do!
This summer saw a ton of growth and success in golf. You played hard on numerous courses and practiced daily. Laine Schulten and daddy were your star caddies. Both positive and cheering you on.
You continue to lead and grow at Javanon with soccer. It’s been a process {often not fair} but you always take it with your head held high. Coach Taiye is teaching you so much on the field and you appreciate his rules & policies.
You are participating in your first fantasy football league~ the draft was an interesting experience as you put players in places based off your knowledge of their names! You’re enjoying this new fun adventure with friends.
You’re always a BRIGHT light Brighton. Keep shining and making the world better one day at a time.
I love you!
Love,
Mommy
