Tightened the Reigns...

Let me start out by saying I know every family functions different and their schedule is made perfect for them to fit their needs and priorities. :) Ours...was getting a little...chaotic. I mean when you have a new family member enter the Jones Kingdom it's just a little wacky and schedules are  changed challenged to fit the demand of each unique little being occupying the house. Am I right? In our family, yes, it's right. And yes, it's taken me nearly 6 months to get the train back on the track. While it wasn't a circus everyday and we did have some activities planned, etc. you can just say I was a little more reeeelllaxed with my type A personality (cringing each day). Well let's just say this mama has had a comeback. Back on the railroad we go with our structured day. When I had two small children walking around "bored" and getting annoyed with each other every second, that's when enough was enough and threatening to give their neglected toys away didn't work. Can I just say it's night and day. My children LOVE structure (as do all) and routine. They thrive on it. Now they are definitely flexible when needs be but mostly, our days have been filled with rainbows (okay that was cheesy but you get my point). Adelyn no longer being so needy and can play in a bouncer or walker has opened up the window. We are now enjoying (even more so) every second of our learning, playing, snack time, and don't take each other for granted (meaning less arguing between siblings). I can even get laundry done, and keep the dishes managed! Yesss! :) We haven't officially started Aidan's Kindergarten school year, but we haven't stopped the "school time" either. I'm really trying to have a more "relaxed school time" before we start our big year. That way his mind hasn't completely shut down what we've learned. :) Brings more anticipation and excitement for him when the 1st official day starts. :) So I get to indulge you with their more structured day. :) 

Playing word slap! (I call a sight word and he slaps it)

He drew and wrote everything here. :) Extremely proud of his drawing of himself  before Kindergarten. I can't wait to see what it's like at the end of the year! (Hung with broccoli, his favorite veggie and cherries, his favorite fruit.) ;) 

Working on those fine motor skills. :)

Our official snack time at the table. Goodbye cracker crumbs on the carpet. :)

A can that held formula covered with paper and hole punched on top provides quite the entertainment (while working on  fine motor skills). :)

Stamp time fun!

Pom Pom balls to work on numbers and needless to say they were quickly dumped and used as snow balls. ;) 

Moments like these make me glad I held on to my teaching music CD's!

Even she loves our sunshiny days. :)

So while there's more structure going on, there's still lots of playing and learning. All of that equals super happy kids in the day, a mommy who doesn't want to pull her hair out,  and one happy daddy coming home to a family who is under control. ;) Now just praying this keeps up right? ;)