barrett: 94 months old

We are a mere two months away from having an 8 year old!  This year has been Barrett's "golden birthday" (he was born on the 7th and turned 7), and it's felt like anything but golden.  Or maybe I'm just looking at it wrong.  Yes, it's been the most trying year of my life (everyone's life, for sure), but it's also given me back time at home, no commute, for months there was no school, and no activities.  Barrett missed swim team, soccer, and baseball, but also, maybe he didn't "miss" it as much as I think.  He's a homebody through and through.  But to break out of our rut of not leaving the house except for school, Barrett is now set to begin soccer when we get back from spring break.

Barrett did participate in some Outschool classes - harmonica lessons and a karate lesson!  He enjoyed both, and I need to find some more classes for him.  They are all online, and a fun way to get a taste of many different classes.  

Likes:  Megan McDonald "Stink" books (we're on the 12th book!), Baldi's Basics game

Dislikes:  having to study for school tests

 

139 months old

Look at that smile!  I don't get to see it much lately, because Britton is 11 years old and a preteen and angsty.  But I've found that in the moments where I get off my high horse and make an effort to connect, that the same kid I've always known is still in there.  She's at the age where she's starting to find her own way, who she wants to be and what she wants to think, and while it hurts my own nostalgia-heavy heart, I have to remind myself that this is a GOOD thing.  Because someone who isn't allowed to determine who she is will one day have no choice but to be told by others who she should be.  

I didn't mean to start off this month so serious!  Britton is ready for spring break, to be at the beach for a week with cousins and family, to be in the water and sea breeze, to sleep in and get ice cream every night for dessert.  Truth is, we all need spring break!  Once we get back, Britton starts a theater class online, and will be a part of a production of "Alice in Wonderland"! She's missed theater so much, and if online is all we can get, well, we will take it.  She's also starting swim coaching, to focus on strokes and time.  I'm pretty sure that swim team will be happening this year, so both Britton and Barrett have had a year off of training.  

Likes:  playing clarinet, hoodies (this colder weather has been perfect for her), Nella

Dislikes:  her bike - it's only a year old and so clangy and squeaky!  And of course, bikes are impossible to find right now