Right now, Lucy is laying in the baby bouncer and Olive is reading a book to her in her highest, sweetest voice.

I've been wondering how to keep Olive's school stuff without becoming a total obnoxious hoarder. I figure electronic is the best way to go. So, here's what she came home with today!

Here's Olive doing her first homework assignment.
Lucy wanted to do homework too, so we got out a
coloring book for her. Cute girlies.

Olive's first homework page,
she got a sticker!

Today was Olive's first day of preschool! I had a few tearful moments beforehand -- last night when I started thinking about how from now on she'll have the consistent influence of other people outside our family in her life, for good or for bad. I thought about how protected she's been at home with me, how so very particular I am about things like babysitters and television shows (she is only allowed to watch PBS and Nick Jr. I don't even like Nick or Cartoon Network because they introduce themes that are too old for her and that do no good for her mind). I thought about things like how she doesn't even know the words fat or ugly, much less any profanities. Chris was quick to point out that she'll also have the opportunity to influence others for good, and to be a delight to other people the way she is to us. Chris also pointed out that when she does learn adverse things that it will be an opportunity for us to talk with her, and help her learn right and wrong. Ever the optimist, Chris really helped me feel calm instead of anxious. He even helped me laugh at myself a little bit. My second tearful moment came this morning when Chris gave her a father's blessing. It was really sweet. He told her to be helpful to the children who might be afraid, and said that she herself wouldn't be afraid but brave. And he told her how lovely she is to her Father in Heaven. She wasn't apprehensive at all, so I made sure to hide my own reluctance and be really enthusiastic with her. I drove her to the school, and as soon as the teachers opened the door she went in and paid no more attention to me. I was really glad about that. Her confidence and self-assurance are a gift, and I'm not about to curb that in her. I chatted with her teacher for a few minutes, my cares and concerns drifted away, and then I left. 

She came home with a necklace and a painting of an apple that she had made, and with homework! Chris and I asked her a million questions about her time there, and she really just had a great time. Love our big preschool girl!

This morning at the park at Town Square.
On stage, right in her element.