ATLAS' NEW SCHOOL ADVENTURE

After nine months of the preschool hustle, we’ve made a big transition – Atlas started at a new school! Nothing new about it... It’s been around for 75 years, so I know we’re stepping into something solid, especially with its focus on community, which is huge for us. And while the price tag is still crazy, it fits our family’s budget a little better. Let’s be honest, how are you you raising your kids in this economy? 😝

After a week of “new school,” Atlas agreed to go back on Monday. He still says he likes his old school more though (change is tough, right?), and every morning, I get the adorable, “Mom, can you stay with me for a couple minutes?” But once he’s off playing with friends, he’s totally in his element. One of my favorite moments from his first day? I didn’t have the gate code yet, so I told Atlas, “Watch this—it’s how you make friends.” I asked another parent if he didn’t mind letting us in, and boom, instant connection. A dad dropping off his daughter got us in, and we were off to a great start.

I’m most excited about the sense of community and long-standing traditions this school offers. It’s an academy, which means there’s room for Atlas to grow, build roots, and make memories. I’m looking forward to getting involved, too! Watch out PTA. The environment is definitely more hands-on, with a variety of activities. It’s faith-based, which is new for us, but it’s sparking some big, beautiful conversations at home, and I love that. As a family, we’re embracing it and welcoming everything it brings to our house; even saying “Grace” at family dinner now.

Atlas, on the other hand, is LOVING the activities. In just his first week, he did karate, had a picnic, named three types of apples (Granny Smith is his favorite), and even did a science experiment where he “parted the water” like a mini Moses. Oh his new friend’s name is Moses, they both have Lightening McQueen shoes, Kachow! He started soccer and is signing so much, right now practicing Star Spangled Banner for Homecoming!

I’m feeling good about this change. Sure, school is scary in so many ways right now, but I’m focused on raising a bold, brave, and confident kiddo. If I can do that, I’ll feel a little more relieved sending him off every day, knowing he’s ready to face the world with courage and kindness. Here’s to new beginnings, building community, and watching Atlas take on the world!

XoXo

Britt

PRESCHOOL ADVENTURES WITH ATLAS

Our little adventurer, Atlas, took a giant leap into the world of learning, laughter, and new friendships by staring school this past week. A whole new chapter began and I'll admit it—I'm the one shedding a tear while he's too excited to notice.

From practicing using the potty to engaging in health and wellness activities, Atlas's day was filled with new experiences and discoveries. The daily reports share his adventures, from letter recognition to big movements imitating animals. It warms my heart to see him thriving in this new environment. I love the naptime reports, “Atlas seemed restless during naptime, opting to play with puppets instead.” Hey, who needs naps when there are puppets to play with, right?

Atlas didn't touch their gourmet offerings (typical!), but he happily demolished the snacks I packed. The teriyaki chicken? Yeah, that didn't even make it onto Atlas' radar. Snack game strong!

My fave is the crash course in preschool politeness. "Please pass the crayons, and thank you for the cookies.” Atlas is excited about his grand entrance into the world of preschool. Get this—he asked to go back the very next morning! That's our Atlas, always ready for the next adventure. By the end of the week, Atlas wasn't just attending preschool; he was building a tribe of tiny companions.

Happy he loves school! Enjoy some photo memories below!

XoXo

Britt

THIRD ROCK FROM THE SUN- ATLAS TURNS THREE

Our little explorer, Atlas, just celebrated the big 3, and his '3rd Rock from the Sun' birthday party was an intergalactic adventure to remember! Let's dive into the festivities that made this day out of this world.

Giant pizza, rock painting, and a dance party kept the older astronauts and the younger ones accepting the mission. Pizza was from the famous Geno’s Pizza (same giant from our rehearsal dinner). The best! My signature sugar cookie recipe with an an Atlas spin were a hit as well!

The moons rock painting station stayed busy all day. From fun activity sheets to DIY moon rocks these kids were mini Michelangelos. Who doesnt want a fun little moon rock to remember the adventure?

Close by you could bounce, search for treasure and samples in the sand, complete the ball pit rocket ship tunnel and ride off exploring the surface on one of three rovers (aka tricycles). There was alway a dance party with hits for everyone taking you back in a musical dimension.

My favorite moment, although it was hard to pick, was when we gathered around to sing 'Happy Birthday.' Atlas, our little star, looked at everyone and said, "Thank you, everybody." Cue the collective 'awws'!

It wasn't just a birthday—it was a cosmic celebration of love, joy, and the incredible journey of our little explorer, Atlas. Here's to many more orbits around the sun and countless adventures on with our own '3rd Rock from the Sun'!

XoXo Britt

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS AVOCADOS

Santa! It’s been a great year- how have you been? It is me, Atlas. Almost two now and ready for my second Christmas. I helped decorate this year and the cookies… *chefs kiss*. Hey! I saw a lot of you at the Churchill handing out candy canes; I didn’t take any because I couldn’t trust them. You’re the real deal.

Since you’re THE Santa and I have been extra good this year I know you can get me what I want….a lifetime supply of avocados. How about A year? A grove? A tree? A sprouted seed? My mom try’s with all the composted ones I provide for her but her thumb is not so green.

Also, while we’re at the big stuff can we get some extra kindness in this world. My friend H sings about TPWK and I agree. Our fam sprinkling kindness, but while you’re out delivering all those presents put some extra kindness in those stockings, would ya.

I won’t keep you much longer. I know you’re a busy man and I appreciate your time. I saw special show with Mickey and the Blues Clues one too ; great work. Tell the Mrs I said, “Hello.”

Atlas

PS My mom made my santa letter printable for you to get it into the real man just in time! She’s the best.

HAPPY GRADUATION - SWIMMING INTO LEVEL 3

Our little fish has graduated level 2 before turning 2! After our final swim class of the year we celebrated leveling up.

We started Aqua Tots Swim School beginning of 2022 as a first birthday present. Coming up on a year, we have successfully graduated 2 levels! On to level 3- one on one with the coach. Although I am looking forward to not getting in a highly chlorinated kids pool every week, I am more excited for his independence and trust he will gain with the coach!

You can read our AQUA TOT ATLAS blog sharing why we chose this swim school and some tips and tricks from us here. Mr Atlas Phelps will be practicing all winter and accepting recruits for his summer 23 swim school. Congrats, again, Atlas. Mom and Dad are always so proud of you!

XoXo

Britt

FIVE FAVE TODDLER FINDS AT COSTCO

We know we have a ton of Costco fans on here. I was originally a Price Club attendee sitting high in my cart atop a giant package of toilet paper. Now, we take Atlas, what seems like monthly, to stock up on family snacks and meals. After continuously purchasing the same products, it's time to get a sponsorship, just kidding. Sharing our Costco list with you. 

18 months cruising the isles of Costco with your mom and dad. Heres our FIVE FAVE FINDS! Be sure to save our shopping list to your phone.

Kirklands Applesauce Squeezer

These are great for on the go. 

Some have other fruits and veggies mixed in. 

The ingredients are real!  

Veggie Straws

The whole family loves them, even Winter! 

You can eat them plain or dip or hummus. 

Snacks all day! 

String Cheese

We string it -he eats it up. 

On the go too! 

These are perfect for travel.

Shred them on scrambled eggs.

Par baked tortillas 

These are so fresh and delicious. 

I always freeze one half because you get so many. 

We warm them for all meals and turn them into veggies quesadillas for little man.

Raviolis 

My Italian boy loves his pasta with cheese! 

Extra reward it has spinach! Find ones with mushrooms too.

BONUS! We also stock up on fruits and veggies frozen and fresh. Frozen strawberries and blueberries. Fresh avocados, bananas, and raspberries. 

I hope you enjoyed shopping with us at Costco today. Let me know if you have any foodies suggestions for an 18 month old, please and thank you !

XoXo

Mama Britt

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS MY TWO FRONT TEETH AND...

Admiral Atlas here and boy is it Christmas! I guess thats what they call it. We went from spooky things to holidays rings overnight. My mom even put lights, these red balls and this shiny stuff on my palm tree in my room. We’re constantly watching and reading about a guy in red suit and this white stuff that make its cold. I haven’t seen either with my own eyes, but I’ll take my parent’s word for it.

I do enjoy the music. My mom made me this playlist (like she does for every holiday). The songs are fun and I love hearing my crazy family sing. Another thing mom and dad are great at is reading me that Grinch book. Every night at bedtime I get my very own Dr Seuss performance.

Now I sit down and write a letter to this Santy Claus about how good I’ve been and what I want him to bring me. Mom went from saying, “tell Grandpa,” to “tell Santa.” So here you go mister.

I have everything I could ever need: love in my heart, food in my belly and a safe home, BUT if I had to ask for something I guess you don’t have to twist my arm. First, I would like my two front teeth. They have been pushing through for nights and days and I am ready to just have them so I can eat all the yummy things and sleep peacefully. After that I’ll take shoes. I am really learning to get around and I out grew all my baby pairs so if you want me walking get me some shoes, please.

I just want to make amazing memories with my family and take in every minute of my first Christmas! I hope you have an amazing holiday with the ones you love and I will seA you soon, eh!