JANSEN KIDS CATCH UP

Merit is into the swing of things in first grade. He is liking it. It is a transition, it is busier than kinder... I think being their all day every day and being very busy with "first grade learning" is a little tough on Merit Henry. He has said "Kindergarten was more fun" and "We are sooo busy!" What I love is that he goes each morning with a good attitude and tries to find the positives.
Willem started preschool Tuesday. He is 3 1/2. Deciding whether or not to send him was tough for me. I think one year of preschool is really important. I think two years can be great, but isn't necessary. He will attend two years. He cries so hard when I leave him, but when I pick him up he is all smiles. He is excited to talk about what they are learning and the kids in his class. Today he learned a song " I am Special" Listening to him sing that as we got home from preschool made me smile! And I know he has wonderful teachers there!
I decided to send Willem because I know he will miss Merit this year with Merit being gone so much and I will be busy with a newborn baby... I thought two mornings a week would be a good outlet for Will. Hopefully he will get used to it. It is interesting to talk with people. Some feel children are still babies at 3 and they should be home with mom if they can be. Others think it is a wonderful introduction to structure, socializing with peers and following instructions. I am stuck right in the middle.
This baby girl will  be here so soon! My due date is October 14, Merit's birthday. My midwife has offered to induce me, I have big babies and she would like me to deliver a baby that isn't huge so is thinking a week or so early could be good possibly. My body needs to show signs of being ready though. I was induced with Willem. The first time it didn't take. Ten days later I was induced again and 24 hours later I had 10 pound Willem Vance. My labors are L-O-N-G. But maybe not this time?? I can be hopeful, right?
Merit is sooo excited to have a baby sister! But he hopes she doesn't arrive ON his birthday. He thinks he would like his own day, I don't blame him. He said last night "I am so glad the DR is going to reduce you early so the baby and I can each have our own birthdays." I think he meant induce :) ....  I need to keep praying about that. Allowing everything to happen on its own sure sounds good too.
I love this time of year. The air is CRISP. I am getting cookbooks out looking for yummy, fall recipes. Gourds and pumpkins are growing and are for sale. Autumn is in the air.