Edie's 9th Birthday Party

With so many people in our area who leave town for some or all of the summer, the "summer birthday kids" all try to cram in birthday parties before school ends.  Edie included.  This school year was shorter than usual because we had NO snow days, so the party frenzy was crazier than ever.  School let out on Friday, and Edie went to a party Friday evening, her own party was Saturday morning, her piano recital was at 1pm on Saturday and she had a pool party to attend at 2pm.  Wow.  Such is the life of an almost 9-year-old.

Edie's party, held three weeks in advance of her actual birthday, was at our community art center where the girls made "secret books," which are actually little boxes for special possessions.  They are a really nice group of girls and I manned almost the entire party solo while Chris and Gemma were at soccer.

Gemma and her 5th Grade Posse

For better or worse, Gemma has assembled an entourage of 5th grade friends this year. On the day she registered for Kindergarten, the 5th graders happened to be on the blacktop for recess when we pulled up in front of the school. A group of them ran to the sidewalk to "escort" her to the doors of the school.  She just smiles and nods as if it's all expected.  Like she's a celebrity.  Sigh....

So, it should not have come as a surprise to me that following 5th grade graduation, Gemma was asked to sign 5th grade yearbooks.  I spotted her from across the playground, but another mom (parent of the 5th grader in this photo) actually captured the moment.  I believe a line was forming.  We are in BIG trouble!

Last Day of Preschool for Gemma and Last Day of 3rd Grade for Edie

The girls' schools ended on the same day this year!

It was hard to see Gemma leaving her preschool and Edie's former preschool - Bowen Cooperative.  I loved Bowen and having spent the last two years as a co-president of the Board, I feel closer to the school than ever.  Our family made incredible friends at Bowen - the warmth and support of the community has always been amazing, and we will miss all of the teachers and especially the big red door that welcomed us each morning!  It will be wonderful to have the girls at elementary school together for the next two years - so with the sadness of leaving Bowen is also the excitement of knowing the girls will have that special time at school together next year!


Edie finished a fantastic year in 3rd grade.  Chris and I feel that she made great strides in math, literacy and composition this year.  She loves school and always puts forth her best effort.  Her teacher had nothing but good things to say about Edie and she especially praised her willingness to work hard, take academic challenges and her kindness to her peers.  We are very proud of her.

Happiest Hubby Ever

Chris went fishing with some work friends in early June, and had a fantastic day.  Here he is with his proudest catch (no, not me!):  a 25+pound striped bass.  I believe this was the largest striped bass he has ever caught!