Wii Will Rock You!

We purchased a Wii and who knew it was such an all-over body workout to play it. Max and Holyn love the boxing game (even if only one of them is playing at a time). Check out this clip of them showing off their skills. I need to try this.

Happy, Happy Birthday!

Holyn turns 6 today (yeah 6). She woke up and said "I'm not 5 anymore"! She is off at school (where she is also the snack leader today) and gets to start Cheerleading and Tumbling class at the YMCA tonight. Thanks to all for the cards, gifts and thoughts celebrating her big day. And thanks to Boppa, Papa Jim and Uncle Chris for coming out to celebrate with us over the weekend.

Hit Me With Your Best Shot

Max started Tae Kwon Do tonight and even though we told him he would not be hitting anyone, he did get to practice on the instructor. While they warmed up with a couple kicks, Max threw in a couple extra jumps for good measure (and some flash!) He is so excited to be part of the class and can't wait to go back. (You might want to mute the playlist on the lower side of the blog to hear the instructor talk to Max).

Painting Party

For Holyn's 6th birthday, we hosted a painting party at the local pottery shop. Each little girl got to paint a small item and together they made Holyn a dinner plate with their thumb prints (and Holyn's hand print in the center). After they created their masterpieces, they were ready to blow off some steam. The girls had cupcakes and pink lemonade followed by a very loud game of Simon Says. Max even got in on game too.

So Proud of You

I got to volunteer at Holyn's school yesterday and get a small peek into her world. She was really excited to have me there, and told everyone in her class I was coming. Holyn loves to be with her friends and learn. As we walked together into the front school entrance, Holyn was beaming ear to ear.
After the normal routine, putting away book bags and announcements, the class took their seats. They broke into small groups and I helped Holyn's group stamp their names on paper and then make words out of play dough. Holyn's teacher pulled me aside to tell me Holyn has an amazing vocabulary and knows how to use it (actually she said she was impressive). Another teacher told me Holyn helped one of her classmates feel more comfortable about school by walking her to class (on a day she was really struggling with being there). As the teacher said this, we both looked over to see Holyn helping the same friend tie her shoes. Needless to say I had to fight back a couple tears.
Holyn, Dad and I couldn't be more proud of you. Keep up the great work.

1st Day of Pre-K

Max started school today, and as he told me before bed last night "Mom, tomorrow is the biggest day of my life". (I had to pass that little gem on to all!) He was soooo ready to get back to his routine and his class. He now has 16 kids to play with (8 boys and 8 girls). I was impressed to see when the second bell rang, Max yelled "time to take our seats guys" and ran to his assigned seat from last year (followed by all his buddies). Mrs. Hobbs commented that it was going to be a great year with a start like this! Now, if she could only tell me how to get him to do that at home. Guess I need a bell.

Chicago & The Shedd

The Dorans went to visit Uncle Tom & Jess in Chicago for Labor Day Weekend, and as usual, we got spoiled! Uncle Tom made 2 (yes 2) Boston Cream Pies for us to enjoy and homemade ableskivers and pancakes for breakfast. (Can I move in?) Holyn and Max got to play with their buddies the dogs too. They were in heaven can't ya tell? We beat the heat and went to the park, walked to Lake Michigan, rode a city bus (the kids begged to do so), visited the Shedd Aquarium, went miniature golfing, had Chinese food, pizza and Miss Molly cupcakes and shopped Chicago. The kids loved the sharks at the aquarium and definitely the 4D World show. Thanks for the fun guys!