New School Year

I can't believe we are at the beginning of another school year. It seems like I blinked and the summer was over. Julia has been counting down the days for school to start. We made a paper chain the last week because she was just too excited. When we pulled up to the school last week to return overdue library books (I knew we would find them!!) she said. "I've missed this place." 

She was sooooooo ready for this morning.

Julia May, our "Is it a school day" 1st Grader

On the way to school she said, "I can't WAIT to sit by Kyler."

Audrey is our little planner. All summer long consisted of, "What do we have going on today," or "What's the plan today," or "Are we doing anything today?" She loves to know exactly what we are doing and when and keeps every detail in order. She was so happy to have Mrs. Grandstaff for 3rd grade since Claire had her when she was in 3rd. Although her dear friend Kinlee isn't in her class she was happy to see that a friend from church is in her class this year!!

Audrey Lynn, our "What's the plan for today" 3rd Grader

Hallie seems to be maturing over night these days. Every time I look at her I feel like she is growing up twice as fast. She was pretty sad to find out she isn't in Presley's class this year. After a few tears at meet the teacher she wiped her eyes and focused on positive things. Her friend Emma is in her class along with Jaycee and a few other friends. 

Hallie Elizabeth, our "growing up overnight" 5th Grader

Our 2015-2016 Hartman Trio

Between the 5 girls we will have 3 at Hartman for a lot of years. I'll have to do the math on that one. 

Claire was not stoked about school starting. But most 8th graders aren't. She'd rather sleep in and watch Korean dramas all day. (Thanks Gram and Aunt Stephanie, she was pretty devastated her OTP didn't work out in the latest drama episode). I can't believe she only has one year until high school. Excuse me while I go cry and then throw up.

Claire Olivia, our Korean drama loving 8th Grader.

When I was backing out of the driveway to take the 3 to school she ran out of the garage and said, "One of my worst nightmares just came true. My make-up is in dad's car!" Mom's make-up to the rescue. Crisis averted. 

I hear Lexie waking up from her cat nap so I'd better run. Here is Lexie's latest trick and obsession.

This girls can't eat her toes enough.

 

She loves bath time.

 

Yes those are her toes, not extra fingers.

Gosh she is too cute for words.

Here's to another school year. I have a feeling it's going to be a great one with lots of learning and growing. 

Sure love and miss you buddy...

If you only knew how much.

xoxo

Mom

P.S. Your sisters rocked their exercising, math and reading filled summer. They did their stuff every day and the structure was AWESOME. Boy did they love shopping. Sweet Success!!!!

One Year

The morning of July 8th the girls came into our bedroom with breakfast in bed. Your sweet sisters spent a long time making dad and me a special breakfast. The best part was the super Caleb symbol they made out of strawberries. They used super hero cups and gave us super hero bracelets from your first birthday party. It was such a tender and sweet gesture and one I will always remember. 

Your sisters are so thoughtful and wonderful. 

Getting ready to go to the NICU

 Someone was very sleep and cuddled your lovey.

 We stopped at your grave before going to the NICU

 We went to the store and everyone picked out a flower for you that we put in a bouquet.

We will bring you the bouquet each year.

 Walking into the hospital. 

 The girls were so excited. We all were.

 Even Lexie was. :)

 We seriously love the staff at Dallas Presby. Beyond amazing.

 Nursery C was where you started and then about half way through the NICU stay you moved to Nursery G. I miss calling every night and every morning to check on you. I miss saying your medical record number and hearing the update. I miss seeing you. I miss holding you. I miss your chubby cheeks. Your darling dimples. Your rubber band wrists and huge cheeks. I miss your dark hair and beautiful eyes. I miss your smile. Oh how I miss every single thing about you.

 It was so neat to take the loveys around to all the babies. The girls were over the moon that they got to go around to give them away this time. 

In the winter kids aren't allowed in the NICU so they were so happy to come in.

 Super Sissies.

 Dr. Green and Dr. Nystrom gave your sisters a treat like old times and let them eat it in the Doctor's lounge. They loved it.

One of my favorite things about that day was that Lexie laughed for the very first time for Daddy while we were visiting the NICU. That memory will be one I cherish always. A little piece of heaven right there. I love going to the NICU to honor you. You are one loved little boy. 

So many people called, texted, sent flowers, gifts, visited your grave, sent you balloons, and so many other thoughtful things. I will be forever grateful to those that mourned with me and sent comfort in different forms that day. One thing I was not prepared for on the anniversary of your passing was how traumatic it would be. I relived the moments and went over everything in my mind. One of the hardest days of my life. I never knew how hard that day was for those that have lost someone or how hard it would and will be for me. There is no way around the pain of losing you on July 8th.  You are one special boy, Caleb Luke. My sweet son. I love you to heaven and back.

xoxo

Mom