Happy St Patricks Day

The past few years the kids have grown increasingly excited about St Patricks Day. I think it began when Brooke first started preschool and a leprechaun visited her classroom. That first time, she was a bit upset and freaked out that something had invaded a place she felt was safe. But, she was 2, and it was a pretty huge violation. That naughty leprechaun left footprints, tossed stuff around the room ... and peed in the potty without flushing! The following year as St Pats approached she became apprehensive. However, when the leprechaun visited her classroom that year the result was quite positive. Since then its a holiday she truly loves and she's spread that joy throughout the whole family.

The kids love of St Pats also has a downside - big expectations. Each year we increase the level in which we celebrate the holiday. At first it was just necessary to have something green to wear. Now the leprechaun visits our home (and their school!) and must be very inventive to deliver the type of day the kiddos expect. This year went well. Everyone was wearing green and a smile.

The big kids both had trouble in their classrooms. Some disruption, some tricks, some treats. While they were at school, the little guy was at home causing his own disruption. He spent the day playing with remotes, outlets, and fireplaces. He just might be a leprechaun in training.

Despite the fact he's big trouble, his sister is his #1 fan. Because he never experienced the joy of St Patricks day before, she found it necessary to make him some special art :) The shamrocks she glued to the paper are those left by the leprechaun himself!