Hersheypark with Oma and Opa: Take 2

A couple weeks ago, we attempted a Hersheypark trip to celebrate Oma and Opa's 60th birthdays. That one got rained out in a big way. But the last weekend of August, we were able to try again and this time...SUCCESS! Ben, Salli and the kids were not able to come this time but Oma and Opa and Matt, Erin and the kids were able to be there! The weather was amazing!! Because most PA schools were back in session, the park was actually pretty empty. We decided to switch things up and go to the waterpark first thing in the morning to avoid the lines. That worked super well and we were able to ride water slides fairly quickly all morning! (No photos of that part -- there's no possibility of staying dry anywhere in Hersheypark's waterpark!) :)

After lunch, it was time for rides! We actually got a lot of rides in because by the time we were doing non-water rides, everyone else was heading to the waterpark. 

 

We stayed at the park for way longer than I thought we'd make it with 5 kids -- after 7 p.m. (from opening)! We went for dinner and all of the kids did so amazing at the restaurant (maybe because Oma told them she would get them rainbow bread from Isaac's?!?) :) We had such a great day and were so glad we got to celebrate Oma and Opa's birthdays!

First day of Kindergarten!!

I'm a little behind since the first day of Kindergarten was all the way back on August 25! Let me tell you--this was one excited little boy to be going to Kindergarten! His teacher's name is Miss Quirion.

 Breakfast on the first day -- eggs, fruit and juice! He could hardly eat he was so excited!In fact, we were probably ready for the bus a good 25 minutes before we had to leave. We got some photos, watched a short show and we were STILL to the bus 10 minutes early! :)

 I'm loving the backpack that makes him look so tiny.

 ...and the moment I almost lost it. Even just seeing the bus come up the street brought a lump to my throat. It made me feel so much happier to see him so, so excited and not really having a fear in the world. He kissed me goodbye and was off--like such a big boy! He did look out the window and give me a big wave and smile. It took everything in me to not start sobbing when the bus pulled away! They have my baby boy--how could I not be scared/worried/nervous?!?!(As a sidenote now here 1 month into school: he just loves it. He has so much fun, has made so many friends, loves his new after-school program and is having a blast!)