Summer Break

We are about four weeks into summer break, and it's been non stop since school let out. We   have been keeping busy with house projects, swimming (lots of swimming), fun outings, and errand running. Even though I have little time to myself this summer, I am definitely not missing the school schedule. There is something about summertime that is so refreshing!

We took a little road trip to Marengo Cave a few weeks ago. Before we went I pictured us leisurely walking through the cave (Paige included). We ended up having a guide and Paige started crying as soon as we stepped foot in the cave. It was not worth making her and everyone else miserable so we skipped it. Adam and Ella went through, and Ella really enjoyed it. Paige and I found a giant sandbox to play in while they were going through the cave. I look forward to the day that Paige can enjoy stuff like this, but we are just in a different season of life right now. 

Paige has had the best time playing in the water. She isn't a huge fan of the pool but she loves being sprayed with the hose or playing in her baby pool. These pictures are so Paige. She is always happy and lives life to the fullest. 

She does have her moments though. This picture was taken on Memorial Day, and she was not happy about my picture taking. 

We made a trip to the mall, and I thought it would be a great idea to ride the carousel. Paige loved it until it was time to get off. She threw the most explosive fit I have ever seen. I couldn't get her out of the mall fast enough. Thank goodness Ella was with me, because she had to push the stroller out. It was UGLY. 

We have also been to the zoo. 

I took Ella and a friend to CMOE and Lics for lunch. They both had the best time. 

Followed by a playdate in our pool the next day...

I have been getting Paige in the pool quite often, but she only likes it for a small time. She enjoys playing on the steps. 

Ella has been a little fish. She has been in the pool almost everyday and loves to swim. All those swim lessons have definitely paid off. 

 I finally found a float Paige will sit in and not cry. She will straight up tell me no if I ask her if she wants to get in the pool. Hopefully she will grow out of that. 

We did our first home improvement project. I have been planning this since January, and it was finally finished in June. This picture below is what it looked like before. 

This is the finished project. I love how it turned out. We had the tile taken up infront of the fireplace and replaced with the matching flooring. We had the built ins put in, and the fireplace stoned. 

Field day and last days of school

Ella just finished up her second grade school year. It was definitely her best year yet. You never know what to expect when the school year starts, but I don't have one complaint about this school year. She learned so much, she gained confidence in herself, she grew about a foot and most importantly, she was happy. Ella is such a sweet little girl, and I hope she stays that way forever. She will be moving on to third grade at ECS East Campus next school year, and and it's hard to believe that the time has come. 
Field Day
Field day was last Friday, and the weather was less than stellar. It was chilly and rainy, but that did not dampen the kid's spirits. Field day is my favorite day of the whole school year. I love watching Ella compete. She did the same events as last year: 50 yard dash, team relay, and the soccer kick. 
Ella's class has been together since Kindergarten. I have never met a nicer group of kids. They were like a little family, and I will miss them being together next school year.

 Ella and her two main friends, Jossalyn and Mariah

Ella gave it her all that day.

Can you tell she loves to compete? 

Second grade celebrating their win against in the first grade in tug of war

Field Trip to the Lock and Dam

Ella's class had one last field trip yesterday to the lock and dam. It was a fun day of play, and a great way to wrap up the school year. 

Last day and awards ceremony
Today was her last day as a second grader. I couldn't help but shed a few tears when I dropped her off. First and last days are always hard. We are super proud of this girl!!

Ella and Jossalyn before the awards ceremony

Ella received an award for physical education and honor roll. Ella had no idea what the honor roll was. ;) 

 I love comparison pictures and here is Ella on the first and last day of second grade. It's crazy how much older (and mature) she looks. 

This is the first day of Kindergarten and the last day of second grade.

We have had our ups and down the past few years, but it turned out to be a great experience. We are super proud of the sweet, happy, confident girl Ella is. It's on to third grade!