PreSchool

Alisha started preschool. All in all she is doing great. She is figuring it all out on her own terms which is just her way. She is shy and quiet and taking it all in. But we have found her enjoying the other kids and interacting in the afternoon but she seems to be more quiet when she gets in. She loves the project and all the things she brings home. She also like circle time, the kitchen, the playground and of course the sandbox.

Her teachers are very good and seemed to really love the kids. I think Alisha is going to thrive in school. We are hoping for a happy and successful school year.

Last Day at Mrs. Melanie's

Today was bitter sweet. Leaving Melanie's was long overdue but we left our safe haven. Melanie has been with us from the beginning. Melanie was much more than her daycare provider, Melanie held a big part of Alisha's heart. Someone she could always count on, someone who guided her through tough times and fun times. Someone who listened to her day in and day out. Alisha counted on Melanie and Melanie was always there for her.

For me, Melanie will always hold a special place in my heart. Leaving Alisha after 3 months was the hardest thing I ever did. It was hard at the beginning but I realized very quickly that Melanie was going to do all it would take to make Alisha feel safe and secure. She kept Alisha close for weeks, held her and gave her a safe haven. She went out of her way for us. I could never express the full story of what is in my heart. She is an exceptional woman, mother, wife and daycare provider. But all of those things will never tell the full story of Melanie. She is beyond words. We will always remember her for going out of her way for making a home away from home for our scared little girl.

Beginning Again

Alisha, this is for you. You will always have a place to come back to remember these wonderful first years. You are an amazing little girl. At 3 1/2 here are some of things you are doing right now:

• You love to laugh and make others laugh
• You talk up a storm and always tell us what you are thinking
• You love bath time and being read to each night.
• Love Kobe who you call your brother.
• Every day when I pick you up from daycare, you ask me where we are going. You never want to go home, you love being out and about (just like your daddy).
• You love to hide and always tell us where you are so we can find you.
• Your legs are getting stronger by the day (braces are doing their job). You tell me you like your braces because you know they are making your legs strong.
• You love TV and everyday when we get home, you like to sit and watch your shows while I make dinner.
• You love to pick out your own clothes and shoes and never want to wear what I pick out.
• You are finding your own voice and will tell others how you feel (sometimes very loudly).
• You had a blast at the beach this summer and couldn't get enough of those special days.
• You found your water legs and are working on swimming each weekend.
• You want to be a ballerina and love to twirl.
• You love your best friend Jack
• You can't wait to start pre-school.

Mostly, you are an amazing girl, with a gentle soul and a huge heart. You are always happy and willing to try anything. You don't let your limitations stop you and for that I am so proud of you.