Another year is over

Summer officially started today.  It is funny because yesterday was my first day back and my last day. My long-term sub, Bill Chadek, did an amazing job.  He is a retired teacher who taught at Newell for 35 years. He works way harder than he should.  It made being on maternity leave so easy for me.  I just hope he's around when I have another baby.

Zach was glad to finish his year as well.  He didn't like going to work everyday while Monroe and I stayed home these last few weeks.  The ending to the year was bittersweet for him, though, as he is not returning to Westridge next year.  He has been reassigned to the Success Academy, an alternative middle school, because of cuts in the math program.  He has tried to have a good attitude about the situation, but he is really going to miss his colleagues at Westridge.

One person I will miss next year is my principal.  Brad Wolfe has been my principal for the last five years.  He is leaving to take a middle school position in the district.  He was a wonderful leader and a great person to learn from.

This summer we have no big plans.  I hope to go on a lot of walks, do some gardening, and read a few books.  Zach hopes to play a lot of golf.  We both want to take in every second of being with Monroe. She's growing so fast.  We don't want to miss a thing.

Newborn Pictures

Monroe had newborn pictures taken when she was seven days old.  We loved working with the photographer, and we love how the pictures turned out.  I have so many favorites.  I know all moms do, but I think I have the most adorable daughter ever.

More from our photographer can be seen at www.jessicarichterblog.com

Westridge shower

Zach's school threw us a diaper shower this week.  We were given tons of diapers and wipes.  What a blessing.  Hopefully we won't have to buy these things for a while.

Monroe had to look adorable for her big day.  I love the new headbands I ordered from Etsy.

This is what Monroe's closet looks like now.  I think this will last us a while.  Thanks, Westridge!

Week Three

Monroe and I had an eventful week.  My sister-in-law, Julie, came to stay with us for a few days.  Our days filled up quickly, and the time went way too fast.  Julie and Monroe enjoyed good cuddle time, and Julie and I laughed A LOT.  It was a great time.

On Friday night my siblings and parents came to our house to celebrate Mother's Day.  Grand Island is central for all of us, so we met here.  The night was beautiful, so we ate and played outside.  The kids had a great time, but I didn't get any pictures.

I had a nice first Mother's Day.   Zach's parents, his brother, Derek, and Derek's girlfriend, Emily, came to Grand Island for dinner.  We tried out the new Italian restaurant in town.  The food was delicious, and everyone loved holding Monroe.

90 degree weather brought out the summer clothes

Monroe also rolled from stomach to back for the first time on May 8th.  Less than one month old.