A banner week for Finn

First day in the Teddy Bear Room.

Trying not to look nervous.

Opening school gifts.

This was Finn's week to shine! Not only was it his first week of "big kid" preschool, he has been officially declared toilet trained and he earned a ribbon in his first day of swim class!

He and Calvin did not want to start learning to swim, even though they clearly enjoy splashing around in water. Calvin had a bit of a meltdown, all through the half-hour lesson. Finn was more stoic, but he didn't warm to the idea until after class, when he was presented with a rainbow ribbon for getting his face wet and not crying. It was all the more wonderful when he realized big brother did not earn a ribbon. (Calvin understandably was jealous and angry, but completely turned himself around and was very brave at his second class, beaming with pride throughout the lesson.)

An even bigger accomplishment was getting through four straight days with no potty accidents. He would like to invite the whole world to his promised "potty party," though we are pretty firm that potty parties are family events. Especially when the primary celebrant wants a potty-shaped cake. Finn has really worked hard, knowing he needs to stay dry at school.

But the highlight of his week, by far, was starting school. Finn loves preschool, as we knew he would. He has proudly shared an ear of corn from the school of garden, blended-color paintings, songs and stories, and tales of houses and train track configurations he's built. His teachers report he's playing well with other kids, has found a few activities to immerse himself in, and is cooperative and fun. All the things I want to hear.