Hawthorne Montessori - "Hummingbirds"

I am often asked, "why Montessori?" We were first urged to look into Montessori by "Bubbie" Elaine, who heads a Montessori in Maui. That, combined with the timing of Hawthorne's grand opening, and most importantly the feeling we got from checking out the school, made it a clear choice. 10 months later, I would like to share ...

Top 5 Reasons 2 LOVE HAWTHORNE!

1. Blake LOVES it!!
2. When I drop Blake off, I often wish I could stay all day and play.
3. It's a second family, not a service.
4. It grows independent, creative, and thoughtful individuals.
5. The people who make Hawthorne what it is.

Top 5 BONUS Reasons 2 LOVE HAWTHORNE!

1. Blake is 15 months old and showing signs of readiness for potty training.
2. Blake eats with a fork and spoon, and drinks his water out of a REAL cup.
3. Blake LOVES to clean and help mom around the house, with a smile. YES!
4. Blake listens.
5. They do things like take class pictures, have Valentine's day tea parties, etc.

Move Over Tony Hawk

Blake has discovered the fun of traveling on wheels, thanks to a new mini-skateboard and a set of skates Graham purchased on eBay. We've been helping him stand on the skateboard while holding hands, and each day his balance improves, but after only the second day on skates he insisted on doing it himself, and as you can see he's taken to it with ease. I might have a heart attack as a result of him falling (twice yesterday), but hey at least he's having a ridiculous amount of fun!

Three Generations of O'Colmain's

Over the recent holiday season we were blessed enough to have the opportunity to see almost each complete set of Blake's grandparents. I say almost and blessed, in part because Bonnie couldn't make it this time around, and blessed because as is typical in a time with so many blended families, Blake has four amazing sets of grandparents who include, in no particular order: Augee Do Da, Bubbie, Grandpa Joe, Nana Bonnie, Papa Ron, Memo, Papa Peter, and Grandma Cher.....phew, now that is a mouthful, and is sure to keep Blake from ever wanting:) I think it's amazing that three generations of O'Colmain's were able to meet, and I can't believe that in February, when we take a trip to Arizona, we will have the opportunity to experience a rarity, four generations under one roof!!! *As always, click on the photo to view in a larger size

"So... is it true what they say about you?"

I am thrilled that we made it to see Santa at The Domain. Thrilled because most days I'm lucky just to make it to work on time. Blake was exhausted from all of the holiday guests in town, so excuse his bed head and glossed-over eyes, but he was such a trooper, and as always, so cute as he cautiously checked out "the man" (as seen in the first photo) and then sweetly smiled for the camera. I was so convinced that this guy was the real deal I had to take a seat for myself. Oh, and the cutest suit ever, his first, is a gift from Uncle Brendan.

1st Birthday Bash - 11.22.09

Welcome

After struggling to keep up with family and friends for the last year, I have finally decided to start a blog! I hope you enjoy watching our little boy grow as much as we do.