Operation: Distract Momma

We put Zachary on the bus, and knew that we needed to keep my mind off my baby going off to kindergarten all by myself. Breakfast at Kitchen Little, and a hike at Barn Island was exactly what we needed. This place is goooorgeous. Elara was mostly a trooper, walking for parts, strategically whining when she thought she could get a ride on Poppa's shoulders. She also filled Poppa's pant's pockets with rocks, and sticks and treasures. Then, to top off our excursion, we went to Stonington Beach to feel the sand between our toes. Mission accomplished!

Though I have to admit, by the end of the day I was still very ready to get back to pick up Zachary from the school bus!

KINDERGARTEN!

Zachary may have looked a little pouty in this first picture, but I think he was just sick of his momma taking pictures of him, he actually jumped into kindergarten with a big smile, and a lot of enthusiasm. He was excited to ride the bus, and meet his new classmates. I was WAY more nervous than he was. He hopped on the bus, waved goodbye, and only made his momma cry a little. Kindergarten has been great so far. His reading, drawing, math skills, people skills--they're all getting better every single week. He has plenty of stories to share, and even some cute kindergarten drama to tell me about when he gets off the bus (ready to eat an entire afternoon snack meal.) He even told me he was disappointed he couldn't go to school on the weekends, because he couldn't see his friends. Except Sundays, because there is football on Sundays. The biggest problem has been Elara's desire to get on the bus and go to school with Z!

OMV

After the beer party, we had a lovely brunch, and headed over to Olde Mystick Village for some fresh air and shopping. Elara and Zachary love seeing the ducks, and any excuse to hit up the chocolate store is good with them. With two grandmas there, you know those kids made out like bandits. Zachary even got a viking hat, which made him extremely happy.

BEER Party!

Whenever Poppa and Big Daddy Paul are in the same state, there is bound to be a beer tasting party. This visit was no exception--and we were able to have over a nice group of beer tasters. 

Poppa-ing Right Over

Nonna and Poppa decided to make a trip out to see us. Elara was so excited, "Nonna and Poppa in ME house!" Zachary loves having his poppa to play with--he keeps asking when he'll come back to play with him again. So Poppa, any ideas on that? (wink, nudge, wink)

Elementary, my dear Zachary.

Zachary's elementary school did a great job of making sure the kindergartners had ample opportunity to get to know their new school, classroom, and get to know all the teachers well before the first day of school. There were orientations, mini school bus rides, meet-the-teacher days, and interviews. Zachary of course aced all of them, and I stole an opportunity to get a picture of him in front of his new school. He's riding the bus, so I won't get a chance on an actual school day. Northeast Academy looks to be a great fit for Zachary so far!