The Karate Kid

Perhaps Carson has watched too much KungFu Panda, but he has been wanting to take karate classes. So, we decided that now was a good time to give it a try. They claim to teach qualities such as respect, focus, and discipline, (in addition to self defense and fun). So, how could we say "no" to to all that!!!

Today was Carson's first class, so the first thing he learned was how to bow to his teacher and to "stand like a black belt" (which means to stand with legs together and arms tightly at his side).



Our karate kid!!!! After just one class, he already thinks he is an official Ninja!

Summer swimming

We have spent a lot of time this summer at the gym, California Family Fitness. It has been such a great place to spend our afternoons cooling off in the pool. Holly likes to play in the pool with our diving rings. The pink one in her hand in this photo is her favorite.

They really do more splashing around then actual swimming, but they have tons of fun.

Holly loves the water and can splash and play just as much as her brothers!

Tate has really gotten to be a good swimmer this summer. He is much more confident and is so proud of his improvements.

At the end of the afternoon, its time to dry off and head home for dinner. Before leaving though, the kids usually talk me into getting them each a Popsicle at the pool's snack window.

First day of school

Tate's new kindergarten teacher, Ms. Hellen, packaged up a packet for each of the parents which included a keenex, a bag of tea, a cotton ball, and a note which read the following.

Welcome to kindergarten...

Thank you for entrusting your child to me,

I promise to do my best everyday

to be your child's companion in learning.

This morning, after you have wiped your tears,

make yourself a nice cup of tea, and relax.

Then, hold the cotton ball in your hand.

The softness will help you recall the gentle spirit of your child.

I will work alongside you this year to help your child grow.

Tate with his kindergarten teacher Ms. Hellen

Tate is ready outside his classroom for is first day. All of the kids who will be in his class are listed in each of the circles posted in the window behind Tate.


Ms. Hellen blew her whistle and welcomed all of the kindergartners on the playground to their first day of school. After lining up, she had all the kids blow their parents a kiss goodbye, along with a wave, and they were on their way into the classroom.

Then, we were on our way to Carson's first day at his new preschool. He started at the City of Rocklin preschool, his new "big boy" preschool, bright and early also at 8:30am. He will go three days a week here which is located at Ruhkala elementary. Ruhkala is only about one mile from our house and will be a great place to spend the next school year!