More Valentine's Day

Drew and I were able to attend Claire and Braden's Valentine's Day parties. Drew had such a great time, and I am pleased to say that he was on his best behavior. (Of course, I had threatened him within an inch of his life...but whatever it takes!!)

When Claire and I were making her box for Valentine's Day, Drew wanted to make one too. I allowed him to make one. He covered his box in dinosaur paper and had me print out Darth Vader and Power Rangers so he could apply them on top of the dinosaurs. The box turned out to be pretty cute, and definitely reflective of Drew's "style." Anyway, I thought he had forgotten about the box, but when I told him it was time to leave for the parties, he ran upstairs, grabbed a backpack, and packed his box in it. It was so cute that I couldn't stop him. When we got to Claire's party, I feared her teacher would be upset that I allowed him to bring his box, or that none of the kids would have extra Valentines for him. It was priceless when he placed his box on the table next to Claire's. He then sat in front of the box with a look of patience and excitement. The first two kids passed him without placing a Valentine in his box. I could see his shoulders beginning to "slump" with sadness. THEN...Claire's friends came to the table. Now you must know that Drew is somewhat of a celebrity among Claire's friends. They love how "spunky" he is, and are often amused by his actions. When Claire's friends began putting cards in Drew's box, his face began to smile. It was a sly, confident smile, as if he knew all along that "his girls" would come through for him. He was very excited!!

I must tell everyone about the parties here in Colorado. As you know, there is a "NO SUGAR" policy in Braden and Claire's classes. Generally, I am ok with this. The kids don't need sugar, etc., and since they are allowed to eat snacks at school, I think it is a good idea that those snacks have to be healthy. I have to admit, there is a little pressure about how healthy you make the snacks...somewhat of a competition, but,whatever I am over it.

I did find humor in the fact that the Valentine parties were equally as healthy. For example, my participation in Claire's party was to bring a veggie tray. We were laughing at the image of "Happy Valentine's Day...here is your carrot." It was quite funny. Braden's class did have good snacks, and the kids seemed not to miss the sugar. They were served real popped corn, fruit, cheese, etc. I did miss the beautifully decorated sugar cookies and cupcakes. It seems traditional to have them at the parties; however, I did enjoy a good night of sleep the day before. As you know I am often up until late hours preparing the treats for the parties. The veggie tray didn't require that much preparation time. I just walked to the counter at Costco and paid for it...much easier, huh?