What Makes a House a Home

Of course we knew this house was temporary, but it was our home for nineteen months.  Several birthday parties, barbecues, play dates, coffee mornings with friends, and family movie nights... Those are the things that make it a home.  Now our journey here is ending and it's time to turn another house into a home!  Goodbye, Israel.  Thank you for being so good to us!

After we took some family shots, the boys decided they wanted their own little mini photo shoot!

Last Day of School in Israel!

A bittersweet day...

Lina is officially a 3rd grader now!  Such a bittersweet time leaving WBAIS, but Lina is excited for her new school in AZ and new friendships to be made.  Her classmates gifted her this t-shirt with all their signatures on it as a momento.  Never thought I'd have a child that has been to four different schools in three different countries by 2nd grade, but all the experiences, learning, and friendships have made it worth it.  Onward and upward, my social butterfly!  We are so proud of you!

That's right, folks, this guy right here is straight outta preschool... We officially have a kindergartner on our hands!  What a mix of emotions he was feeling today (as am I).  From excitement to what awaits in sunny AZ to tears and tough emotions about leaving his school, teachers, and friends.  I could not be more proud of this kid.

He wanted to do some Spiderman poses!

Walking to school.

Lina and dada.

Brother and sister in front of the flags at the roundabout at school.

It was a little sunny!

Lina and her wonderful 2nd grade teacher, Ms. Bonnie.

Making Shadows (and memories!)

One of the kids' favorite things to do right before bed was to make shadows on the walls with their hands.  Isandro had a light right above his bed that he could turn in any direction, making his wall the perfect spot for nighttime shadow fun!  I think now, wherever we live, we're going to have to put a rotating light near the bed so we can continue this special tradition!  We might be leaving Israel, but we're taking simple moments and great memories like these with us!

Preschool Family Day

The preschool organized a family nature walk in Ramat HaNadiv, about 45 minutes north of the school in Israel.  It was followed by a sweet "graduation" ceremony and picnic potluck.  I can't believe we are nearing the end of this adventure.  Isandro could not have been at a better preschool.  Such great memories.

One of the world's best teachers... Ms. Anna

Isandro is not usually a "pose for the camera" kind of guy, but I want to have pictures of the kids with their teachers each year.  With Isandro I have to rely on catching candid moments, which of course I love more than posed photos anyway.  I'll treasure these pictures of Isandro and Ms. Anna forever.  I hope he will too.

When everyone jumps into a close group, Isandro likes to keep his distance.  

After our nature walk and exploring, everyone gathered for the end-of-the year celebration.

Singing songs and dancing.  Ms. Michele was Isandro's other amazing teacher this year!

Ms. Anna getting emotional.  She is just the sweetest!

Michele, Anna, and Maaian, the preschool director.

Ms. Mini on the left was one of Isandro's teachers last year (he only started school after his 4th birthday in March, so only a few months of school last year).  She had surgery and just recently returned part time to the preschool.  How lucky to have been able to have Ms. Mini back!

Proud mama moment... Isandro receiving his preschool "diploma" from Ms. Michele and Ms. Anna.

Isandro ran right into dada's arms after getting his diploma.  We are so proud of you, Isandro.  

Amazing playground and picnic after the ceremony.

Little Liam and Micheal, who was in Isandro's class.  We are going to miss them a lot.

I think it is safe to say this was the coolest swing ever!