Our First Visit to Sedona

Since moving to Arizona in 2008, we haven't really explored our glorious state.  And that is just crazy, because there is so much to see (like ... the Grand Canyon, which we still have not visited).

So the time came for us to take a trip to Sedona, which is a mere two hours away.  And the great thing about that is Scarlett fell asleep on the drive up, as did Christian for a bit.  And that meant a QUIET drive.

My goodness, Sedona is beautiful.  I have seen pictures, but in person ... wow!!!

The Chapel of the Holy Cross

Christian asked me if he could pray to Jesus, and he did!

Praying to Jesus just outside the chapel

Pretending to be Jesus on the Cross.

Christian's Latest Ribbon

A Proud Mommy Moment

Christian (6) is having so much fun at Summit Community Church's Vacation Bible School! 

A Proud Mommy Moment when my friend who took the pic wrote to me, "He was too cute:). And you should be very proud, Jennifer: he was so polite and thanked me for taking his picture after I told him we would send it to his mom."

It warms my heart that even when I'm not around to prompt him, Christian is friendly and well-mannered. 

I must be doing something right along this journey of parenting! 

Christian's Last Day of Kindergarten V1.0

Christian's Kindergarten Promotion Ceremony

And that is okay, because ... just before this ceremony, Jonathan and I met with his teacher and the various therapists who have worked with Christian since January.  It occurred to us a couple of weeks ago that Christian wasn't really ready for first grade.   While his reading is well-above grade level, he is behind his peers in many other areas.  

I spoke with several people before making this decision, and all agreed it was a good idea.  In fact, friends I know who are teachers praised our decision noting many times, parents aren't willing to hold a child back.

In fact, we have a unique opportunity:   kindergarten at this school is half day, with the option for "after care" for kiddos who need to be at school for a full day (for example, if both parents work).  We were offered - and eagerly accepted - a full day of school for Christian in the next school year - half his day the classroom setting, half his day in a structured "after care" environment.   And then he would get his various therapies during the after care portion of his day, rather than interrupting his classroom time (which he was starting to decline when a therapist would show up).   

So we are good with the decision and are really exited to see how he progresses next year, with more maturity and familiarity with all he will be presented with throughout the year. 

And besides, kindergarten is FUN!   Who wouldn't want two years of kindergarten, right?   Right!

 Christian sharing he wants to be an inventor when he grows up!

Christian got the "SweetTarts Award" for being so sweet in class to his friends. :) 

Lil' Cuties!

Christian (6 1/2) and Scarlett (28 months)

Christian's Spring Concert

Tonight was Christian's Spring Concert!   All songs were popular Disney songs, which made it fun for all of us to watch! :)

And we were so lucky Christian was in the front row (even though we were seated in the back).