First Grader!

Viv over the moon about her status as a "full-day" 1st grader, and all the perks that come with that (purchasing a hot lunch, a locker, her own desk with things in it). She really likes Mr Reynolds, who is "nice" and looks to be about 22 and straight out of a frat house. Heard good things about him and his youth = energy that I wish I still had.
She is excited to make new friends- only 3 kids in her class we recognize from K class or OP park district, so she is really starting fresh social circle. The best part of her day was "a tour of the cafeteria".

Otto fine. He starts school next Tuesday.

George is crawling across room now. Eats lots of interesting things- yesterday was roasted beets. The milk-allergy has been a non-issue, easy.


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Kiddieland!

Joel and I took big kids on a date to amusement park that's closing this year, after 80 yrs. This is a classic place- wooden roller coaster, tons of 'little' rides for under-5 set, old painted carousels. Mom, would make a great study for painting series. Big clown faces, mirrors, etc.
we had an absolute blast

Allergy Boys

George had a skin test today- confirmed allergic to milk/dairy. Nothing else though, very manageable. Blood drawn to determine severity (results in about 2 wks). Unfortunately the one thing Otto eats in spades.
Have re-started acid reflux medication which has helped vomiting immensely.
Poor boo-boos.
update for Otto: we are avoiding just sesame, nuts/peanuts, and egg. Expect egg to be a non-issue by end of next year.

Block Party

Columbian had annual block party. 16+hrs of bouncy castles, relay races, crafts, lemonade stand, cake walk, bike riding, bean bag toss, tons of smoked grilled deliciousness, a 'carnival' hosted by the teens for the little kids (complete with games, tickets won, and trade-in for 'prizes' of stuffed animals, purses, etc), a movie at sundown projected on garage with popcorn, and eventual passing out of children (and adults, at 1am). I'm still recovering.