growing up too fast...

van had his graduation from pre-k...so cute! the class performed some cute songs that they had been practicing for the parents. he made sure to do his signature "thumbs up" pose for the camera:)

he wasn't too excited about wearing his graduation cap, but we got some good smiles for the camera anyways (he took that thing right off as soon as it was over). his teacher ms. rhonda is amazing with those kids. she is one of the best examples of patience, kindness, and love that i know. he learned so much this year, and has grown in so many areas of his little 5 year old life. i was so lucky to be able to volunteer in the classroom, and watch van's transformation from a shy little boy to a more outgoing "big kid". he really has grown by leaps and bounds. thank you ms. rhonda!

of course we stuck around for the ice cream party afterwards:)

van was old enough to go to kindergarten this last year, but i really wanted him home with me so i could love on him whenever i wanted.
while i was a single mom, i had to put him in daycare and work full time for almost 3 years. he was only 2 years old when i started doing that. i can't even express how heart wrenching that was for me. leaving my baby for almost 10 hours a day, while somebody else watched over him (jasmine was in school all day, so it was a little easier with her). but i didn't want to miss out on any more of his life, so i took full advantage of the time we had together this year.
it's amazing the change i saw in him almost immediately. he's so thoughtful and kind, and smart and funny, and is coming out of his little shell quite nicely. i'd like to take a little credit for that...the influence of a mother is so important.
i'm so grateful for my wonderful husband for making it possible for me to stay home, and for the love he shows our family every day.

i love that this is just the beginning of the "pictures on the fridge" phase for van. jasmine was over that long ago and i miss it...