Riley boys first day of school

After much debate, we decided to send Riley to "school" this fall. I try to keep him entertained and provide lots of activities, but this is one busy kid! I've felt for a long time he needs more social interaction...so here we are. I told myself if it was ever not fun or he cried we were done. I definitely wasn't forcing him, but wanted him to have more opportunities to play with and interact with kids his age. He goes two mornings a week for 3 hours and he seems to really enjoy it and although I NEVER wanted it to be about me, those few hours to myself have been quite refreshing. I miss him like crazy while he's gone. Craig's really worried about what's going to happen when he tries to leave for college. I'm sure he'll just want to stay at a local community college. 

 The best part is his best buddies/cousins go with him! He and Gavin are in a class together and love it.

And a few tidbits of cuteness from him....
He voluntarily, out of the blue, said he loved me for the first time today! I know, a little delayed right?? He tells me he misses me many times a day, and we've always assumed that's kinda what he meant, but it was so sweet to hear the right words today!

Earlier today I responded "small" to a question Craig asked and Riley chipped in, "You're not small Momma! You're bigger." Then he hugged me and rubbed my back and said, "But you're so cute. Just like Mia." (Mia's our cat...who is not known for her slim figure.)

It's such a fun age because he cracks me up daily with the funny things he says. I wish I had a pause button because I know someday I'm going to long for these days!