Waylon's Holiday Pageant

What is it about holiday performances?  Every time my kids get up in a group with their class and sing some songs I cry like a baby.  I am not a crier, but pageants kill me.  I love them, but they are such a stark reminder that my kids are getting older.  Seeing Waylon with his kindergarten class was crazy.  He is such a big boy--literally and figuratively.  He appears to be one of the 3 biggest kids in all of kindergarten.  This means he was in the back---allllll the way in the back.  It suits him fine, but makes me crazy as I try to snap photos to capture the moment.

Bubba arrives!  Lukckily I got photos just as he lined up--before the other kids stood in front of him with their cute little antlers blocking him.

 He was excited when they were all arriving.  Note that he does NOT have a red reindeer nose.  He has never had face paint on.  Ever.  Apparently a red dot counts, and according to his teacher, Sra. Noguez, he almost cried when she got near him with the red face paint.  I guess he is not so old after all.

 Love that excited, toothless smile!!!

 Lots of hand movements.  I love this photo because Waylon was actually singing.  That was not true the whole time. 

 Hands up in the rear!

 A photo with Sra. Noguez, who just returned from maternity leave on December 1st.  We LOVE her, and are thrilled that she has a tighter reign on the class, which is what Waylon needs.

 All done after the show, and ready for some post singing punch and cookies!

 Waylon and Diego.

 Tatum and Waylon.

Antler boy.  Good job, Waylon.  I was so proud of you (even when you were bored and looking around during the performance).  xoxo

Avalon's Holiday Pageant

Just before Christmas, we went to Avalon's preschool to watch her class, the Forrest Room, perform several songs.  It was beyond adorable.  I have never seen Avalon glow like she did when she was performing--she was clearly in her element!!!  Lots of tears from a very proud and verklempt mommy.

We are so lucky to have Chloe as a neighbor and get her hand me down clothes--this dress was the best yet.  Avalon looks like such a big girl with her couture dress and fancy haircut.

 Despite being all dressed up, she is still a silly girl at heart!

 Dress twirlability is a very important aspect of getting ready at our house.

 Our big girl!!!

 Avalon with her teacher, Miss. Amelia, who she absolutely adores. 

 The Forrest class takes their places.  Avalon was so excited as she stood front and center, which she seemed to love.  Waylon is the type of kid that wants to be in the back of the group, but not Avalon!

 Lots of adorable hand movements.  I dont want to brag (but I will) it seemed that a lot of the kids were following Avalon and Ashley (in pink).  Of course its all relative when you are talking about 4 year olds doing the "waddle waddle penguin" song.

 Well, I guess she did look around to follow other kids now and again.

 Waylon was so excited to see his BFF, Ryan, after the show.  Ryan + cookies = very happy Bubba.

 Avalon with her buddy, Brooklyn.

 Waylon had no problem jumping on Santa's lap, but Avalon was having none of it.  I usually force my kids, but the vibe in the room was really mellow, and as I started to move Avalon towards Santa she freaked out.  Other parents looked at me like I was a monster (party poopers!) so I gave her a reprieve.  I knew there were many chances to meet with Santa's helpers this year.  By the way, Waylon asked for Beyblades from Santa.  What?!?!

This looks like sibling tolerance rather than sibling love.