Heather Hodges

After playing with a newly made friend, Elijah said, “May the Force and the Lord be with you.”

And also with you, little man.

No surprise that the boys dressed up as Star Wars characters for Halloween.  They love all things Star Wars and especially the new Clone Wars cartoon that comes on Friday nights.  I think Caleb was Master Plo Kloon and Elijah was a Clone Trooper.

Well, the day finally came when I got to take both of my children to school. Leading up to today I’ve been talking with Elijah about going to kindergarten. He said he was excited but not nervous and hoped he would make a lot of new friends. Which, if you know Elijah will not be a problem at all. Caleb was just pumped to get back to school and see his friends.

Caleb first day of 2nd grade. Elijah first day of kindergarten.

The handsome Hodges boys.

When we were about ten feet from the classroom door, Elijah said, “Mom, I guess I am a little nervous.” It didn’t last long though. By the time he stepped inside the classroom he was all confidence and charm.

I apologize to the grandparents for the lack of Caleb pictures. He wasn’t excited about mom taking pictures on the first day of school and wouldn’t let me go to his classroom. My babies are growing up

In an effort to provide better nutrition for my family I picked up Jessica Seinfeld’s new cookbook “Deceptively Delicious.” What a great resource! It is chocked full of recipes that hide nutritive rich vegetables in every day kid food. Last night I gave the boys macaroni and cheese that had 2 yellow squash pureed in the cheese. This morning they gobbled up French toast with pureed sweet potatoes in the batter. For lunch I’m going to try grilled cheese with carrot puree. Wade even tried the mac-n-cheese and decided he liked it better with the squash. I’m feeling a little sneaky, but not one bit guilty about tricking the kids. Tonight will be brownies with spinach, apples and carrots. YUMMMM !

When we lived in Destin, Florida as a kid, one of the most fun activities we did was play putt putt golf.  We had the chance to introduce the boys to this little game while we were in Gulf Shores.

The pirate ship.

Elijah during his hole in one shot.

And then here is grumpy Wade.  Please feel free to comment on his expression and attitude.  He was mad that he was winning and I didn’t seem to care. (I did care, I just didn’t want to give him the satisfaction.)  What is marriage coming to these days?

My family has just returned from a fantastic 2 week vacation.  Over the next few days I’ll post some pictures of our travels to Gulf Shores, Alabama.

The view from our condo at the Surf and Racquet Club.

“Be quiet you guys, my toe is sleeping.” - Elijah Hodges (age 5)

I’m now a suburban soccer mom (I even drive a mini van.) Here are a few pictures from Caleb and Elijah’s first soccer game. I love that they are on the same team…the mighty Bulldogs, but I’m not crazy about the 9am Saturday game times. They are having loads of fun, and Elijah even scored a goal in their first game (made possible because of an assist from his big brother.)

Caleb playing goalie. He spent most of the time with his hands in his pockets.

Elijah getting ready.

Caleb watches from the goal as his teammates fend off the “orange cloud”.

Elijah hamming it up on the side lines.

Thanks to sports photographer and all round good guy, Rob Browne for taking these pictures.

Sometimes listening at my sons’ bedroom door pays off.  Most of the time I just hear them talking about toys, their favorite TV show, friends, the cat, etc.  But last night I heard a different conversation that made my heart swell just a little.

Elijah (5 yrs old) - “Caleb, you want to know why I’m so proud of you?”

Caleb (6 yrs old) - “Why?”

Elijah - “Because you didn’t cry when Mom pulled your tooth out.”

Elijah, Mom is so proud of you for affirming your big brother.  Way to go bud!!!!