Hula Hoop Girl

A few months ago, Grammy found a hula hoop at an estate sale, and got it for Madelyn thinking she would love it. Madelyn was really excited to get it, but was easily frustrated every time she tried it because the hoop always fell right to the ground. Fortunately, she didn't stop trying and has now mastered it! I could watch her for hours! I don't know how she does it with such little movement!

 

Kindergarten Graduation

Okay. So those of you that have known me for a long time, you know that I really don't like the idea of kindergarten "graduation." I don't have a problem with celebrating a fantastic year of fun-filled learning; I just don't like that it's called graduation. I get it though. And if I look at the definition below (taken from dictionary.com) I can see how number 3 sort of fits the bill with the level thing. I just think that with more and more graduations, by the time you get to high school, or college, it loses some of it's excitement. But that's just me. And I happen to know a lot of high school graduates that would say I am dead wrong!

Having said that, I was THRILLED to be a part of Madelyn's kindergarten (eh-em) graduation. It was a sweet program that truly did showcase the kids and their accomplishments this year. It was adorable. And no matter what you call it, it was emotional for many of the parents (including us)! Our kinder babies are now first graders! Holy cow the time flies so quickly!

Miss Madelyn, forever my little bug, you are an amazingly smart, talented, beautiful girl who has such a bright future ahead of her! I cannot wait to see the great things you will accomplish!

Proud Parents

Amazing Mrs. M!

Grammy & Papa were so sad they couldn't be here to see the show (because they were in Indiana celebrating an 8th grade graduation - Congrats, Ethan!) so we promised we would record it for them. Unfortunately, I am having trouble getting the video to load on our computer so I'll include some pictures instead. (Grammy & Papa, we'll share the videos when you're back in town!)

Now there is one thing that I firmly believe we should celebrate, and that's our amazing teachers! I have said it lots of times before, but I'll say it again! Mrs. Mussleman is an outstanding teacher! She runs a tight ship that floats on high standards and lots of love. She knows how to encourage these youngsters and creates an atmosphere of respect and kindness. When I visit her classroom, I don't want to leave! She works endless hours creating activities and lessons that engage her kiddos and make them want more! She incorporates humor and hugs, and doesn't let a day go by without reminding them how smart they are! We absolutely love her! And although we know first grade will be another great adventure, we will miss her dearly!

We wanted to get her a special gift that showed our appreciation for all her hard work and dedication. But what exactly might this be? Well…when Mrs. Musselman made a house call over Christmas break to pull one of Madelyn's teeth during the Packers/Bears game, we noticed she was missing some serious fan gear. I mean, really. You cannot have a proper rivalry without a jersey! Duh. So Chris and I plotted a little, and we even messaged her daughter on Facebook to get some of the finer details, and a personalized jersey was the result. I had to share the pictures of her opening her gift because they are truly priceless! And listen. I only want to share her expressions; this post in no way supports the Bears.

This is my favorite picture. :)

"Shut Up!"

We LOVE you, Mrs. Musselman, even though you're a Bears fan! And we look forward to another great teacher/student rivalry next season! Maybe you can even wear your new jersey to our house for another brat! ;)

Junie B. Jones

We are so incredibly impressed at Madelyn's growth this year! She had the most amazing, one-of-a-kind teacher, Mrs. Musselman, who has instilled an incredible love for learning and reading!

As a matter of fact, about a week ago, Madelyn let Chris and I sleep in (YIPPEE!), and found something quiet to do instead. When I woke up and went to her room, I was overjoyed to see her lying on her bed, reading her chapter book to herself! I feel like that's the next big step in her reading! I was a little sad at first because she was reading the last chapter of Junie B. Jones: Monster Under My Bed, and I really wanted to know what happened. But as Madelyn explained, she just couldn't wait until we got up to find out how it ended. ;)

We have since started another Junie B book (definitely her favorite series right now, and a big THANKS to Auntie Kristin for letting us borrow all of them)! I recorded her reading a little bit from the book so you could enjoy it, too! :)

Muffins with Mom

Madelyn and I enjoyed a quick breakfast of 

muffins and fruit (and bagels) before school.

Madicakes TV: Frozen

Yep. More from Madicakes TV… be sure to scroll down to hear Madelyn sing "Let It Go." :)

Day at the Spa (in Room 204)

In honor of Mother's Day, Mrs. Mussleman put together a very special morning for all the kindergarten moms called "A Day at the Spa."

Madelyn has been so excited about this event! Her excitement really made me smile, and I couldn't wait to enjoy this special time together.

When we sat at our tables, each mom received a very special card!

After receiving reading our cards, the moms were treated to all kinds of spa treatments. I got to start with a manicure and pedicure! Pink sparkles, anyone? :)

We even got a homemade corsage!

Next was the cucumber facial and temple rub!

Then I was whisked off to the massage chair where I got an incredible back and shoulder massage!

And last but certainly not least, was some lotion and a hand massage!

Once we had all been pampered, we got to hang around a little bit longer and enjoy some lemonade and cookies! What a special Mother's Day treat!

Madelyn the Roving Reporter (more from Madicakes TV)