Back to School

Last week we started our new daily ritual of school. A bit different this time, as I tried to navigate through multiple stores trying to fulfill the school supply list. There was also the nervous feeling in my tummy as I wondered what American boys wore to school. (we did ok)

So we stepped out the front door at 8:05, taking a moment to snap some school photos. The boys are excited to do it now...we'll see when the look of dread an annoyance shows up on their pics in a few years.

The walk to school is a breeze and Jacob lined up right in between two nice boys. I felt really good as I watched him walk into the school. Aiden is in P.M. Kindergarten class, so he was going in a bit later since it was only a half day for the school. So, we grabbed some donuts at the PTA breakfast and I signed up for as much as possible.

Two hours later I was back dropping off Aiden, who was happy to go. He was fine walking in as if he had done it a dozen times before.

So it begins. The monotony of the school run, but the blessed time to sit and chat with other moms. We are all ready for a schedule, even poor Jeb who is constantly asking "who's my teacher?" Sorry buddy, looks like it may just be me this year. Let's hope we can make it through!

Aiden - Class of 2023

Jefferson School - Home of the Tigers

Jacob and Mrs. Lancaster (who is new too)

I Want to Ride My Bicycle!

Last Spring, we took the training wheels off from Aiden's bike. He was a bit apprehensive to bike on his own, but he did it and was quite proud of himself. That is, until he rode into a blackberry bush. Clearly it was all Daddy's fault and he wasn't going near the bike again.

Flashforward to August in the states. Aiden is beginning to notice all the kids in Elmhurst ride their bikes. Tom and I are starting to notice how ridiculous Aiden looks on his training wheels. Aiden could have cared less. So, leaving all the good parenting tips behind, we forced him to try biking without his training wheels.

The first night we showed the new neighbors just how short our patience was. My blood pressure shot through the roof, but knowing that everyone was watching to see what the "new neighbors" were like, I pasted on my best smile and walked away. Tom took over thinking he'd do better, but it all ended the same. Aiden is stubborn and so were we. We'd try again tomorrow.

Long story short, Aiden refused, but was forced into it and guess what? On the third try, he got it and has been biking ever since. It's been a week and he is now starting and stopping on his own, biking to town for ice cream, and making me run faster on my daily run in order to keep up with him.

Another milestone checked off the list. Wow, seems like there aren't many more left!

Home...finally

I've taken quite a break from the blog this summer and it's not due to summer fun or summer boredom. It's simply the stress of moving. And we seem to be done. Finally.

From May 29 to July 28 we slept in 7 different beds within 3 different countries. I doubt I will ever be able to say that again and, believe me, I am glad. On July 30 we slipped into our 8th bed - our own, in our own home. To say it was a good nights rest would be a lie, we woke up sore and feeling old due to painting, moving boxes and cleaning.

For the next week Tom and I made our home in Elmhurst. I painted 3 rooms, including trim and windows (btw, Benjamin Moore Aura paint all the way!). Tom did a bit of painting, but due to his pure hatred of the task, he opted for unpacking the garage and organization of the rest of the house.

We took a much needed break between the sea shipment and storage shipment to go to Ikea. It seemed like a really good idea until about 2 hours into it, then it all went blurry. We finally ended it after 3 1/2 hours and Tom asked me for the list of product numbers to get all the boxes. My hands were empty, as was my bag. I lost the list! Only you Ikea shoppers would know what I am talking about - this is a massive mistake and I searched the store until I found it laying on the towels, which I decided not to buy. After a stern look from Tom, we were on our way. I was so excited for the playroom rug that I laid it out that night. Got into bed and thought, "why did I buy a WHITE rug for the playroom?" And thus, another trip was scheduled to visit Ikea.

I won't say much about putting the items together that were purchased at Ikea. But, it is worth noting that we won't be doing much of it again thanks to a DIY from Target. After spending 4 hours putting Aiden's dresser together, Tom went to put the finishing touches on it and it broke. I was in the kitchen and I really thought I'd see the whole thing being chucked down the stairs. Tom was livid and packed it all up (not in the box!) and took it back. And they took it. Good thing, I was scared for that service rep at Target!

On to the next day, which brought our storage items that hadn't been seen in 3 years. I wish I would have donated before packing them up long ago. We had a truck full for Goodwill. But, it was nice to see some of the stuff again.

The next two days were spent tidying and organizing, but it just didn't feel like home without the boys running about. We were so thankful for both sets of grandparents watching them so we could get things done, but I was ready to have them back after 10 days apart!

In they came on Thursday as I turned and said goodbye to my clean house, never to be seen that way again. Each boy has their own room and I think we are all happy about that. Doesn't seem to make a difference in the morning wake-up, but at least they each have their own space.

So, here we are. Officially Americans living in America. It's a lot to take in, but we are getting there. Come on over, there is plenty of room, lots to do, and always a cuppa waiting (can't give the tea up just yet!).

In case you need us...
650 S. Stratford Ave.
Elmhurst, IL 60126
USA

And we are serious, please invite yourself over!

Aiden outside our house...

Me, painting Jacob's room. Back breaking work!

A quarter the way through Jeb's room - it was lavendar and purple before

Tom lending a hand to put in new lights...and no one ended up in the hospital!

Jeb in his new room and new bed. Look familiar?

Stole the idea from Jacob's first room...I'm so creative under pressure!

Aiden in his new room. Proud owner of the bunks.

Jacob - new bed too!

The best part was the new desk. So nice to just be yourself in your own room!