Dear Dutch,

The 2015-2016 school year has come to an end and it’s time to say goodbye to our classroom, teacher and friends (TEAR). Thankfully it’s not goodbye forever, we already have tons of Summer play dates and activities in store to keep you socializing, learning and growing.

12003408_10207699245864949_1096005715248541358_n — First Day of Toddler School 9/2015

Early in the school year you became interested in marine animals. “Whale” and “Shark” were your two favorite words for quite some time. Upon arriving in your classroom, you would immediately run to the toy bins containing your underwater friends and proceed to splash them in the air and show them all around. Your teacher sang the song “Slippery Fish” during music time and it quickly became your favorite song.

12540523_957445477643302_6300585115404178975_n — Field Trip To The Kids Gym

Later in the year your interest in vehicles grew. We could always find you in the back corner of the classroom sorting through cars and racing them down race tracks.

12963940_10209195901000392_6742081567144045505_n — Petting Snakes at the Reptile Show

Your classroom had an open door policy, which you took advantage of often. You loved exploring every square inch of your classroom and playground. We also enjoyed many special events and field trips throughout the year like a trip to our local farm, a train ride, a reptile show, potluck parties, and trips to the park to name a few.

12814195_10208765707845832_7654976226925250186_n — Field Trip Train Ride to Fish Hatchery

Our school community has been invaluable for the both of us. While you played, Mommy socialized and engaged in meaningful dialogue with other Moms. It became a learning environment for the both of us to develop. We made lifelong friends and memories to last a lifetime.

Field Trip to Our Local Farm

To say I’m proud of you would be an understatement. You are smart, funny, athletic, mischievous, and affectionate. I just love everything about you! Here’s to a fun Summer creating more precious memories!

With So Much Love,

Mommy ❤️

Teacher Appreciation Gift Basket

The end of the school year is upon us and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably wondering where the year went. Looking back, I can reflect on Dutch’s accomplishments and the pivotal moments in his development. We owe much of that to his patient, selfless teacher who educated us all year long.

Today I’m sharing the Teacher Appreciation Gift Basket I made for Dutch’s teacher. The original plan was to create an apple themed basket, then I stumbled upon these super cute ruler socks. So it turned into an apple/growth theme. I included: