Valentine's Day 2012

I was really excited to volunteer in Matt's kindergarten class on Valentine's Day. I love going into his classroom and seeing all of the cute little guys hyped up on candy excited for their party. I have to admit, I was surprised by the quantity of candy given out on Valentine's Day. Remember when the holiday meant lots of cardboard cards and the occasional lollipop? Now there are mountains of treats - one kid even brought in  heart shaped boxes of chocolates for each child in the class. When did Valentine's Day become Second Halloween?

Anyway, Matt was very excited to see me in his class, and rushed up to give me a big hug. I know the days of "big mommy hugs" in front of his friends are numbered. I want to freeze these days forever!

The kids passed out their Valentine's Day cards and practiced their reading skills. Matt spent most of that time trying to sneak a candy or two from his bag.

The party was in the afternoon, so Nolan joined the Kindergarteners for the party and snack. One of the boys at Matt's table remarked on the fact that Nolan and Matt have the same shoes. Matt replied, "Yeah, and we even go home to the same house!"

Thankfully, the party snacks were fruit. Strawberries, blueberries, and grapes. A much appreciated (healthy) respite from the candy overload. I stashed the enormous amount of candy in a bowl above the refrigerator.

Looks like the Candy Fairy will have to visit and thin out the supply this weekend!

Piano Player

Matt started taking piano lessons two weeks ago. He has been working very hard, and can read the notes "C" and "D." He has homework each week in a "keynote speller," and I am so proud of his dedication to learning music!

He has learned four songs on the piano so far. The first three songs involved only the "C" note, played in whole notes ("Let's Play"), half notes ("Grandfather's Clock") and quarter notes ("Moccasin Dance").

He was so excited to add a second note last week, and got to learn to play "The Train."


 I am so proud of my little guy. I can't wait to see him learn to play more songs - the next song in the book is "Sea Bees," which is the exact opposite the "The Train" (using the left hand to play).

Music makes him happy. I love it.