Great blog, Maida! The farm looks wonderful and the variety is great. Dash will have a lot of choices this summer and you will probably be able to experiment with some new recipes.
Well, we definitely have a good feel for the floor plan! I see more of a John Wayne swagger than the Frankenstein lurch or drunken sailor stagger so typical of Dashiell’s contemporaries. I can’t believe how well he is getting around already! Katy, bar the door!
Great shots! Your yard looks so nice! He is so fashion forward, especially the way he is wearing his hat. All the toddlers will be adapting this hot fashion trend! Aunt Amanda
He likes the tablecloth because he can do something with it (tear pieces off of it). See how he reaches for the cake? When it’s pulled away from him, he returns to the tablecloth. Little boys like to “do” something. Glad you got him a cake and glad he dug into it later and enjoyed it.
Too true! Normally he always has a toy at hand–but the decks had been cleared for The Big Moment. Of course he didn’t know there was about to be something gooey to play with…
That is so cute!! I could get my shopping done quickly if you let me borrow Dash! He is on a mission! Love that hair. Love how happy he is. Lucky boy. I miss him so much and can’t wait til Thanksgiving.
I can certainly see Dash being the ring leader. Get used to it. He is always going to be a leader. You can just see it in his eyes and the way he handles himself. He is charming and pulls people in with his radiant smile and zest for adventure. I think he is amazing and a reflection of his amazing parents.
He is pretty good at that. What a hoot when he puts the Cheerio back in the spoon. Looks like he is right handed. Amazing how fast he is growing! HURRY THANKSGIVING!!
Was Dash ever a “baby”? He rocketed straight to a little boy, skipping being a toddler. His understanding of the world is so amazing. I really do believe he sees love when he looks deep into the eyes of his grandmothers. What a special soul. I love, love, love him. Thank you to his awesome parents for bringing him to us!!! It was also nice to meet Lisa. She is a brave young girl and very sweet.
How wonderful! A whole month of gifts is a tradition Dash will want to continue every year! I’m sure Lisa enjoyed getting something from home.
I’m so impressed with her maturity to handle being in a land so far from home. But she got the jackpot when she got you!
I say “hilarious”!!! How can one little boy be so sweet?? And funny. And he knows it. He is so happy!! I think it is because every time he looks at his Mom and Dad they are beaming with pride and wearing big smiles on their faces. Just like this Grandma.
Oh goodie, new pictures!!!! This blog is like giving me a massive shot of giggle juice!! It is such a thrill to see Dash in all his adventures! He is such a hoot. Thank you!!
Those two are so cute together! Lisa is too young to be Dashs’ mother but she looks like she could be. How did that happen? Amazing that two dark curly haired people have a golden blond little angel. OK, they must be brother and sister. But Jeff you were only 15 when Lisa was born. Whatever the numbers you all are the greatest beautiful family!!
Dash really has a connection to the people around him. Most kids are in their own little world and don’t think too much about who is there and who isn’t. But Dash is very aware.
WOW, NOW THAT WAS A CHRISTMAS!!! Thank you so much for sharing all that. I felt I was there. Lots of wonderful manipulative toys to keep that brain of Dash’s growing. You know all these grandparents adore him (not to mention his mom and dad, too). How did you survive all that activity???
Loved seeing Dash’ artwork. I’m sure he enjoyed creating them. It’s it wonderful to see this little guy grow and develop everyday! Impressive that he knows what hat goes to what friend. He is such a sweet, loving, kind, adorable soul I know he has many friends and the teachers love him!
Does Lisa have a lot of homework to maintain straight A’s? She really is an impressive young lady!
What a beautiful family!! Time to change my screen saver again. Thank you Maida for teaching me how to download them. I am going to print some off for my frig. Only problem is I need more room! I hate to put any away where I can’t see them! Thank you for sharing!
The irony is that Dash just might man a sub or space ship! You might be standing at the end of that ramp for real someday waving goodbye. Oh, the possibilities!!!
I bet he slept well that night! Awesome experience!
Dash is so perceptive and aware of his environment I can see where he knows when anything is out of place or out of routine. There is a sense of calmness for all of us when we know what to expect.
I felt so bad for Dash when I found out he was sick but I knew he would get THE best of care from his parents! It just breaks your heart when children get sick or injured.
Your Mom’s email is worth framing. If you are ever down or just having a bad day, read that email again. It has to warm your heart.
I can’t wait to see Dash again. I know I will be blown away by how much he has learned! Can you catch him on video talking or signing? I soooo want to see him!!!
Oh, my! I am surprised you couldn’t hear me laughing from Kansas!!!
Tell Jeff, “Yea…Free child labor!!”
But how did Dash get trained so early? It took a lot of head butting with Jeff to attempt the same thing! Did Dash learn his skills from watching his dad?
Yes, the added bonus is you get to remember Victor at that age. This video was taken when we were in San Diego to meet you guys, Thanksgiving 2010. I think at the time I emailed it to you. This version is slightly edited…
Wow, made me tear up to see Jeff love his little boy so much and to see how much Dash enjoyed it. When the kissing stops you see Dash’s expression change and hear his legs kicking and you can just hear him saying, “Hey, where did all that lovin’ go? It felt sooo good!”
Any the amazing thing is that he will always receive unconditional and bountiful love from his parents!
The show “The Bear in the Big Blue House” was popular when he was little and the bear would start the show by closing his eyes and ‘sniffing’ the air to find you out in the audience. This cracked Victor up and he still thinks sniffing your face and neck are funny….very cute, thanks for posting.
Uh oh! This is way too cute! What will he be when he grows up? A rocket scientist, or a very neat bartender? I’m betting on the rocket scientist! Thanks for making my day!
Hey, is it too late to mail the valentine cards. I lost them in the van and they just resurfaced! I am sure Jeff will explain that this grandma is eccentric (and disorganized at times). But I was loving this little valentine the whole time!
I just want to kiss all over the screen when I see this beautiful charming boy!!! You could have him model clothes or be on TV. He loves the camera. Mom said she has never seen a picture of him not smiling or laughing.
He is certainly comfortable with the ice pack. Let’s hope he doesn’t need it too many times! He is so FUNNY! Amazing how he understands all the directions and then walks off saying, ” Good-bye”.
What a sweet and gentle voice. You can tell it is a calming song for him.
Interesting how children form such attachments to objects and routines. It brings them comfort in knowing what to expect. Jeff loved his “Ping.” Chris needed his blankie. “Little Sargie” goes everywhere with Murphy.
Isn’t it a joy to experience the developmental stages of this wonderful addition to your life. A little one that finds such awe in the world. And you find such awe in him and thru him. Such a blessing!
I worked right across the street from this fabulous golf course when i lived in San Diego. It is a very beautiful stretch of coastline. Glad you had a nice, relaxing week. Aunt Amanda
Beautiful job working as a family! First class job!! How wonderful to have all that “free child labor”…as Jeff would put it! Is there anything he can’t do? What a hoot to see Dash wearing his sun hat working with a broom and rake. Loved the pic of him and Jeff taking a break on the lawn carpet. I felt like I was there but didn’t have to get my hands dirty. Thanks Maida!
If I could wear out a video it sure would be on this one. I loved it! Laughed and laughed at the end when he sang “M e e e e”. Does he already know all the ABC’s? How amazing at what you have taught him! You both (Lisa, too) are fabulous parents!!!
Dash is so adorable I just want to squeeze him to pieces. Counting the days until I can!
Dash giving Lisa the flowers is so sweet. All of you are going to miss her sooo much when she returns to Germany! I see many international visits in the future. She is a part of your family and heart now. I marvel at how mature and brave she is for her age. I see lots of accomplishments in her future. You and Jeff have been great US parents and mentors for her. I can’t imagine how Dash is going to feel when she is not in his everyday life. Thank God for technology and video chats!
Oh, Maida. I wish you had a video of me watching Dash. I laughed so hard my eyes are watering. Sparky had to come out from under the covers to see what the heck is going on.
It is unusual the way he draws…not wild sweeping marks, running from side to side. He is INTENSE and precise with small and detailed markings. I would love to “hear” what he is saying inside that head of his!
And good attention span. Loved the way you speeded it up! Sweet having Lisa join him. Does he paint? Eva and Murphy love to. And mix lots of colors, as I only give them the 3 primary colors and white. Maybe a little black at the end.
Have you ever put one of those step counters on him? He probably does 26.2 miles in a day (and the parent behind him does, too). What a hoot. I have a feeling Dash will always be a man on the move. Rarely will others be able to keep up with him!
The travelling man with his suitcase! How funny. Couldn’t tell what he was saying except hi to the travelers. You could see he was taking it all in. He has been on a bike, plane, train, car and wagon. Boat next? Hot air balloon? Space shuttle? (Oh yeah, he was in one).
Darn…so sorry to hear Dash has been ill! What an amazing personality he has that even through he doesn’t feel well he is still so happy and so engaged. He sure loves riding the bus. You could actually carry a conversation with him…and he is focused on what he wants.
My computer screen is slobbered up from kissing him so much!
Hope Dash feels better very soon. Before you know it, it will warm up and he will want to play outside. Let’s see pictures of him on his new race car. Look out NASCAR !
Dash seems drawn to anything with wheels! And the world is full of them. He has an adventurous spirit for sure! You two are wonderful fulfilling his thirst for fun and knowledge!
Dash is so good at communicating what he wants. He was very patient at getting ready for the ride. “Beep, Mama”. He knows you need to move so he and his daddy can go for a ride. Sweet scene.
What a wonderful time! Loved spending time with Dash and getting to know him! He is just a jewel. Thanks so much for the pics. Some will go on my refrigerator.
A cherished time of no stress, all rest and play, topped with good food.
Thank you for the video chat on the big day!!! I loved it. Can you believe it has been 2 years? On the other hand, I have a hard time thinking Dash is only 2 because he is so advanced and looks so much older than he is.
The whistle sounds better when Dash does it! Loved the way he clapped after using it. Wish I was there to sit on the floor and play with his trains with him! That was so much fun!
Can’t wait to see him in his engineer outfit. Didn’t know what size to get him because his is so slim and tall. Hope it fits him OK. He may not understand it is a train outfit but everyone around him will and he will be the star!
If Dash could reach the pedals of the car he would be gone! He has the steering down. Love the way you understand everything he is telling you! And he has lots to say.
Wow, Dashiell looks so much like you Maida! He is beautiful! Can’t wait to meet him live and catch up on our lives…I think it has been since 1989…can that be right? Only 23 years and we met when you were 16 and I was 17. Yikes!
Beautiful Family!!!
So cute. Dash is getting really good at independent play. He is the parent to his toys as what has been modeled to him by his parents. He enjoys and loves his toys and wants to make they happy and well cared for. A preview to his parenting skills in the future!
I say, “WOW”!!! What a cool experience. You could just see his brain soaking it all in. He understands all kinds of transportation-land, water, sky and even outer space.
Sure makes you wonder how all these experiences will help shape his future.
She did love him, and she had pretty eyes and long blond hair, too. She was 3.5 years old. I think D kept his distance because he was worried she was going to pull his hair like an overly-friendly girl at school does!
These early pictures will be priceless when he becomes the next Tiger Woods (OK the good traits). He looks so natural. I don’t know any other kid that has the patience or focus to escort 9 holes of golf!
I recognize that handsome Dash driving the cart but who is that mountain man with him? Very good look for him!
What a sweet fort! You can sure tell Dash is thrilled with it. His special little space will bring him comfort and fun! Comes complete with the stars in the sky and stars on his pillow. Lucky little guy.
The outfit is perfect, and, by the time he’s 3 you’ll have to hide the car keys because “me do” might over-ride his caution. Hope you got some golfing in.
I love this…and I love that we have found each other again. It makes my heart happy. I have a lot of photos to share from our adventure. We talked that we were bold, but we were not crazy…I hope we can instill that in our children as well.
I love the photos of all the curly haired boys at brunch….boys are sweet and now we have given the world three of them! Who would have thought of that when we were teens?
Can’t wait for our next gathering….you guys coming to Oregon…adding another state to our list of travels together.
How much fun can one kid have? Wonderful photos! Lots of learning experiences and good memories. Did Dash trick or treat? Did he get candy?
I remember the first time Eva had Halloween she learned the word “candy” and she loved it!
Looks like Dash loved the whipped cream.
Oh, my, that is so sweet! I love it when the lights come on and he looks up and soaks it all in awe!
And behind Dash I see my son with such joy, pride and love on his face! It brought me to tears.
Dash has such attention to detail. Smart young boy! I remember when I first started teaching art there were kindergartners who didn’t know their colors. Dash,so young, so aware, so blessed with parents who provide him with tons of learning experiences!
He sure knows the names of all his train friends. Great set up on the Thomas track…crossing, hills, intersection, drawbridge complete with boat. I can’t wait to play with him!
Wow, I couldn’t believe all the great new stuff on the blog to enjoy!
Wonderful photos. I saved most. The one of the three of you with the evergreens in the background (Jeff sporting a mustache) is my new screen saver). Will enjoy it everyday.
Dash played a fun game with me while I was visiting – i showed him my iPad photos and he kept switching the names “Mommy” with “Aunt Amanda” and vice versa. After i pointed out our eye color difference, i saw the mischievous glint in his blue eyes…..”me silly”!
Wow! Jeff is the best Dad ever. I’m impressed with the privacy screen! Is that little guy warm enough? He’s bundled for the artic. And, he’s awful cute.
I love our little geese piglet, how cute is he?? Growing so much. Your’re being so smart with your strategies. Remember how crazy it was when he wouldn’t sleep? Wonder how your ex-nanny’s baby is doing? Maybe her baby won’t sleep now.
I can always count on something new on your blog that is going to make me bust out laughing! Oh, I wish I could show these to Mom.
Some people just love to do house work in the nude. As long as it gets done just look the other way!
Dash with his headlamp on working on the IKEA project is a genius in the making. Throw away those assembly instructions…not needed when the Weiss men are on the job!
How exciting to have a newborn in the house. Everyone is so happy, including the new big sister.
Dash is so beautiful in every photo! Looks like he is wearing the train outfit I sent him. I am so glad he likes it. Most kids hate to get clothes for Christmas.
I love them all! Would like prints of 3, 4 and 9, if it’s not too much hassle.
If you put them on Picassa I can print them from there. Would be easier, I think.
Dash is so sweet! Wow, what a mouthful of teeth. I didn’t know 2 year olds have that many teeth. He has a beautiful smile to go with those awesome eyes.
You can tell the hairdresser was good with him,,,talking everything through. He has such awesome hair!!! Reminds me of the statue of David by Michelangelo. I’ve never seen such beautiful locks on a person before Dash.
It was a marvelous week! Can’t tell you how many times I have relived it. And I came home with a souvenir pink mohawk! I had so much fun and looked forward to Dash waking me up every day. What a sweet way to greet the day looking at his warm smile!
Can’t wait to come again!
Love, love, love all of you!!!
So many amazing experiences for Dash…sitting in the pilot seat of a jet, ringing the bell of a fire truck, sitting in a real glider being pulled around by a tractor and riding in dozens of trains and trolley cars!
Those bright eyes, beautiful smile and his charm opens lots of doors!
Question about the golf cart…will your car insurance cover damages?
Wow, he looks so cute in that thing. I could hear that bell ring! Hope it wasn’t too much of a pain to put together. Glad it is done and hope he gets to enjoy it this summer. He is so smart. He’ll figure out the pedaling
Thank you for the pictures!!!! Love them!
Jan will enjoy the quilt highlighted. She really worked hard on it. Very pretty.
I love all the new photos! Thanks for the firefighter ones. Looks big on him yet. But even real firefighters roll up their pant legs. How did they manage to switch a train track or was that just staged? After sitting in a jet cockpit and pushing buttons, I will believe anything! You never cease to amaze me with all the things you do with Dash! A match made in heaven…one extremely bright boy and two bright parents who fill his days with TONS of stimulation!!!
The boys did actually switch the tracks. These are down in an industrial area by the river and I don’t think the tracks have any activity. Still Jeff was alarmed when he saw a patrol car nearby. He quickly switched the tracks back and they made a run for it…
LOL. That would be a surprise to have to bail out your two men for train track mischief!
Thank you so much for the birthday video chat with Dash! I was really looking forward to it! Excited about the news of a December visit! However, I am missing everyone so much any chance of me visiting sometime in September?
When you have time (Hah!) can use send me a copy and I will print out. Thank you for taking some of your precious time to post your blog, so we can watch our baby grow and learn.
What fun! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate my ipad for facetime!!! It was wonderful seeing him blow out his candles and all of us singing happy birthday to him!
We all love him so much it is easy for us to want to send him things. And he has such a wide range of things he enjoys.
Thank you for the 2013 style birthday party!!! I could almost taste that cupcake!
Although he is aware of all the various body parts and colors, it is awhile before they can put in all together in sequence. He is way too young to draw a person yet. I was quite taken back thinking maybe he had at a new 3. That level of drawing would be amazing at 5. But him watching you do it will help him put it all together.
Dash is growing up with such a huge and wonderful exposure to family and friends! He is going to think everyone has a revolving guest room of loving and admiring people! What excitement when he wonders who is coming next?
I just want to reach into the screen and grab him!!! He is so beautiful!!! The last drawing I did of him (the one you mailed me) everyone raved about his beautiful eyes and hair.
Looking into his eyes is like making a direct channel into his and your soul. That level of connection. You just can’t look away and neither do you want to.
To say Dash is a beautiful child is a gross understatement!
Two beautiful boys!!! That little dark haired one still lives in my heart! I can see him in my mind’s eye just like it was yesterday. And my heart is full of love!
Someday Bear will be his children. You have taught him those loving skills and he is already passing them down. He knows how it comforts him to be talked to and loved on. what an amazing young man!!!
Thank you for keeping us informed. The videos really helped to calm my nerves down that Dash was handling every thing in stride. HE IS SO SWEET!!! Precious beyond words!
I sure hope this is the end of his pneumonia! Poor little guy doesn’t deserve to have this adventure.
So glad Dash is a man of many hats! To the rescue for you and the community! What a blessing!
Glad you got enough snow to play in. We have TONS here I would like to send you. Been bitter cold here and too dry to build snowmen. Schools were out almost a week.
What an incredible man! Your love and respect for him is obvious. All you learned from him and your relationship with him will be passed down to Dash. He is 100% engaged in life and the love of learning!
I put the second photo of Dash as my screen saver and was greeted this morning by his sweet sweet smile. Love his warmth that jumps right off the screen and into my heart.
WOW. Yes that’s how it happens for all of us, Now he’ll be able to ride a 2 wheel bike because he’s mastered the balance. What a nice Mother’s Day gift.
I can’t believe a 3 year old can do that! He has to study the photo, study the shapes in likes and differences, study the direction of shape and placement. And he has to have the physical dexterity to manipulate them.
What wonderful pictures!! Yes, just keep plugging away, remember you girls and all the things you finally learned to try and like…mostly thanks to Kay. Neither one of you were giver-uppers, Think that’s part of the “Edwards” DNA. We hate to give up, it’s so satisfying when you break through.
What an incredible young man. Finishing the walk is amazing. He has such patience. You’ve done a great job!
Love the finished Legos. I can see why he wants to play with them. It’s good for him to see a pile of parts to come together to create something fun. Wish I was there to play with him!
Yea, more great photos! I will enjoy them as screensavers. He looks like a pro skater! He wears many hats. He is so engaged in life and all it’s wonderful adventures!
Such wonderful adventures!!! Dash is going to be so well rounded and have no fear to try anything. And if he slips up, he rights himself and keeps going. What wonderful life lessons!
You know it!
I recently heard someone remark about all things artisinal: they’re only artisinal until someone figures out how to automate making the stuff.
These are wonderful, they do great work!!! And you had him dressed just perfectly…my favorite with a tie. Thank you. And do I want prints? You bet, just have to figure out which ones. You should submit these to modeling agencies for sure.
OMG…I want them all!!! He is gorgeous! I just want to kiss and hug on him. He is so model material! I bet he could earn his college education! He has such warmth and sweetness in front of the camera. I would buy anything that kid is selling!
He looks like a Pro! Watch out world. I see a lifelong biker in the making.
Dash looks like a natural and a distance biker. How wonderful for family outings! He is so blessed to have the incredible parents he has.
And you both are so blessed to have such a remarkable boy!
Unfortunately I didn’t keep it; I scanned it in and tossed it, since my “memento” basket is full. I need to go through it and clean out some older things, that might seem less precious now that time’s gone by…I did keep the sparkly pink footprint, if you want that?!
Dash has such a good attention span and very deliberate with his play. I am amazed he has learned each different sound for each rescue vehicle. Awesome! Bright, bright child!!!
Dear Dashiell,
Thank you for the kind and sweet letter. Yes, I had lots of fun playing with you! My favorite part was watching you run and run and run!
I’m glad you like your soccer clothes. You make a wonderful soccer player! I have new pictures of you posted on my refrigerator. I love looking at you every day.
I miss you! I love you!
Grandma Beverly and Sparky, too.
I have told the story several times when Dash thought I would be a tree when his dad is 64. I chuckle every time!
Dash asked me how old I am. Then he asked Jeff how old he would be when his dad is 64. Then I asked Jeff how old I would be when he turns 64. Very calmly and sweetly Dash said, “Grandma you will probably be a tree.”
I want to be a white Dogwood! (But not until Jeff is almost 64)
Oh My! It’s a lovely tooth, it will be fun to see the new one come in. Wonder if you will have another loose one soon. Let me know what the tooth fairy brings.
Seems early to lose a tooth. I would have liked to see that. Did he wiggle it out? Did Dad tie it with thread to a motorized car and pull it out? What did the tooth fairy bring? Looks like a premium tooth! Sweet boy is growing fast!
Update: we have a second loose tooth!
I asked D what he wished the tooth fairy would bring him; we’d been reading a book about how the Tooth Fairy got her job and why she brings coins (it’s a long story!). So he decided he’d take a coin, but also wanted a chocolate. I told him I’d send her a message. She must have received it, because the next day to tooth was gone, and in its place was a shiny 1 Euro coin and a special chocolate truffle.
Wonderful photos of so many interesting activities. Dashiell is such a beautiful young man! I can’t take my eyes off him. I try to imagine what he is thinking because you can tell in the photos he is deep in thought.
You can tell the acorn didn’t fall far from the tree. With two super intelligent parents who give 150% to the best care of their awesome boy it is no wonder he is as he is. So proud of all of you!
Gosh, what a sweet trip down memory lane. Wonderful photos! Fun to see Jeff as a baby. I remember taking that photo. And seeing Mom, who I miss so much. Was that from your wedding?
So cute. Hungry little caterpillar! Dash is beyond sweet! You must be beaming with pride when you sit there and watch him perform so confidently. He is so adorable!!!
I could eat him up! (Would I then turn into a beautiful butterfly)?
Well, you might!
I say this because we just learned that scientists actually don’t really know how the butterfly is created. They do know that it’s not what we all thought it was. The concept of the caterpillar getting into its chrysalis then turning into a butterfly is not really what happens. It turns out the caterpillar basically disintegrates in there, turning into a yellow goo. Then the butterfly is created out of the goo, a totally new being.
You know, his kind soul just brings tears to my eyes. His pure joy over a visit from a hummingbird to enjoy the nectar of your new plants shows how in tune he is with things beyond himself. He is a kindred spirit now to that bird.
So true. He has bonded with those tiny creatures, it is so sweet.
We try to really emphasize that all life is sacred and everything is here for a reason, even the animals we perceive as “bad” like wasps (who recently took up residence on our eaves). I told D that without wasps we wouldn’t have a cool vehicle like a Vespa (Italian for wasp!) and we’d have a lot more mosquitos too…
I so enjoyed the prayer and the crickets story. Yes, night time noises can be very soothing. Once I heard an owl, he was ho, hoing and it had an echo to it. Never have heard it again.
What a wonderful story. Especially loved the crickets going home for dinner. (I wish the crickets in my head would go home. Because of hearing damage I hear them 24/7. Every night is like I’m outside camping.)
You have fostered in Dash such compassion, empathy and caring for the world, down to it’s smallest creatures. What a gift to give him. As he matures I predict he will be one of Earths guardians. And as the leader he will be he will influence others as well.
Hi Beverly, I am so sorry to hear about your constant crickets. After my concussion I can totally relate; I often smell sulphur and taste aluminum. These darn bodies!!
Good job stretching out the big 5! Lots of cool presents. I can’t believe he is 5. Then on the other hand he is much older than 5. What an awesome young man!
I would have a hard time picking out only a few. Very interesting eye with a real attention to details. Especially enjoyed photos of his beautiful mother who is usually behind the camera. Dash has so many interests! He is very engaged in life! Thanks for sharing his photos. I really liked them!
Dash is amazing! You can tell he has no fear of any of these creatures and actually enjoys interacting with them. I there anything he is afraid of? The birthday party was one to remember. The school is impressive.
I tried to download some of the photos but was unable. Any advise?
OMG! He is born to ride a bike! I can’t believe have fast he learned and how fearless and un-distracted he is on the middle of the highway! Remarkable!
I’m so glad you got that on video. How amazing and I loved his beaming smile after! You have already fostered a love for books and coupled with the schools well planned reading curriculum Dash is destined to be a big reader.
Marvelous school! You and Jeff have done an incredible job providing the BEST foundation for Dash’s educational needs! This school doesn’t leave anything out. And in tandem with the love of learning you have fostered in Dash since birth he is truly amazing.
I love it when art projects are inspired by famous works of art. And discussing details of the artist’s life brings greater understanding of the artist and his/her work. Dash is such a sponge he’ll be wanting to know more and more.
I was so glad I got to see this first hand. Dash is a natural. He knew all the moves and executed them flawlessly. He seriously wanted to make the Master happy and “Obey my parents, Sir!”. Between that and The Eve on The Shelf (who reported to Santa every night), Dash worked really hard on being on his best behavior.
Dash has wonderful stage presence. He knew all his lines and songs and spoke loudly with distinction. I especially enjoyed hearing him singing them freely throughout the week.
The school is amazing and was thrilled I got to be there for this event.
Awe…the beginning of homework. You made this fun. Of course his favorite pair was Mom and Dad! BTW, his drawing shows a great understanding of the body! It’s in proportion, has shoulders, arms come out in the right place, good torso, adult length legs, good feet and awesome hands. Very impressive for his age!
Oh my, that looks so real!!! Dash plays the part to the tee. I bet he gets lots of attention. That was a great place to take him! He could be their poster child.
My visit was the best Christmas I have had in decades! All play. No work. Great food. Lots of love!
Loved every minute playing with Dash! Enjoyed watching him earn his yellow belt, play tennis, ice skate and perform in his school program. His many talents amaze me!
Dash, you are a natural! I love how well you listen, how straight up you sit, how high you kick, how fast you are, how loud you are and you keep advancing. Congratulations! Very well done!
Very impressive art! The copper piece is stunning! I liked Dashiell’s part of the Kindergarten Kandinsky! Everyone worked hard. I hope the auction was a huge success!
I never get enough pictures! I love these! You should put together a slide show of all the different personalities of Dash…golfer, soccer player, biker, Spider Man, Incredible Hulk, Captain American, astronaut, police man, train engineer, walrus, firefighter, weight lifter. rower, runner tennis player, etc.
Wow, very impressive. Why do some kids have blue suits on? He struggled a little with the phone (understandable since you have 505 number now). So proud of him.
Lovely pictures, will look at again and again. Know you have lots of things to do and so thoughtful of you to take the time to let us Grandmas share his life.
Love being able to see the action in slow mo! I watched the fast one several times and Dash was so lightening fast it was hard to see the contact with the board. He caught a lot of air on that bike jump. I’m glad he had his brain bucket on as he headed for that fence. What a dare devil!
It’s so hard to see him sick! My minds eye always sees him as the energizer bunny, full of life and happy. Some day Dash will realize that his parents are not just parents but extraordinary parents! Raising an extraordinary boy.
How cute was that?! I’m glad you recorded so much. You can tell Dash has the rhythm in his soul. He seemed to be the only child tapping his toes. He was alert and knew every word. You can tell he is a leader…a take charge kind of guy.
And big holes in his smile make him even more charming.
I noticed on my sweet Thank You card that Dash had written the note himself phonetically sounding out each word. Learning this method will help him forever. Good job to school and Dash!
I’m so glad he is enjoying his uniform! Creating it was a labor of love as I am definitively not a seamstress. But seeing him wearing it makes it all worth it! I love him so much!!!
Wonderful photos! Your lives are full and busy! Dash is amazing. I have to remind myself he is only 5. In all aspects…physically (both in size and skill), emotionally, socially, academically and creatively, Dash is so advanced beyond his years! I am in awe of you and Jeff as parents!
Oh, Maida. You never cease to amaze me! I did not see the knife use coming. LOL. I checked out the up coming camp and it sounds wonderful! What could be better than Fire and Knives!? Dash is going to love it. Will a parent be in attendance? Your part of the country really blends itself nicely for this sort of training.
Ha! Actually I didn’t have the camera at the ready when he explained some of the pieces to me naturally, without prompting. I think he just repeats to me what his teacher said, but still, it’s in his brain!
As an art teacher of 27 years, teaching thousands of Kindergarten through 6th grade students, I am truly humbled! Dash was able to beautifully articulate his knowledge of the artist and his reasoning behind his execution of his choice of color and contrast. He blew me away. His art work is powerful, showing amazing details and patterns and well thought out composition.
If any of this work was created in my class I would be looking for ways to enter it in outside exhibits to proudly profile the artist, my art program and our school district. Kudos to all who helped him achieve this level of artistry.
Thank you for your unique perspective! One of the reasons we committed to the school was because we are so impressed with the art program. There is a framed watercolor piece hanging up at school that shows the 1st and 2nd graders portraits of birds, and you’d swear they were done by an adult…!
Even if D doesn’t end up excelling at 2-d art, he will at least have tried his hand at it and had early success!
Now, that’s what I call a vacation! Looks like you had so much fun and everyone looks relaxed! Wonderful pictures and love the music. Makes me remember our trip you when you were 5.
Oh my goodness. Does that guy have the moves or what. Totally awesome! If he ever needs extra work, he can dye his skin, put on a wig, and earn the big bucks!!!
He is such a cutie! Loved the fast action swimming! He looks comfortable in the water. Tell Dash my favorite part of snorkeling is hearing myself breathing under the water. Sounds like you’re in another world.
My son has rhythm! And look at those hips move! He has always been a good dancer. He blew me away in college when he did Swing Dancing. Love seeing him having fun!
Pictures of your beautiful son at sunrise on the beach…it doesn’t get any better than that! Does his endless energy make you feel old? I can see him flying up that “slide”. What an adventurer!
Beautiful, beautiful photos! Loved having the music accompany them. Did Dash take the photos of you and Jeff on the beach? I love seeing those and the ones of all three of you. More great pictures to have as my screensaver! Breathtaking scenery. Thanks for posting all of them!
Well, picking a few is impossible. I loved all of them! I managed to narrow selection down to 2, 3, 6, 10, 13 and 18. Hope I’m not being greedy. Beautiful family. Beautiful Mom. Handsome Dad. Gorgeous Son. They all have my heart!
Wish I was there to help! I’m so pleased to see the boys creating something with their hands…a boat no less. Nothing better than Father and Son working together. (Unless, of course, it’s Mom and Son cooking together in the kitchen). Love all the safety gear. Would love to see photos of the different stages of construction. Get the wine bottle ready for launch day!
Sure you don’t want to pay for Dash’s college by having him model? He is such a fashion statement. And he is so into all his outfits! He is so beautiful he would sell whatever he models.
His school is so impressive! I love how they incorporate local history and culture. Thanks for sharing in detail his curriculum.
So many great photos. It’s going to take me awhile to download so many favorites. Had to laugh at the one where Dash has a dirty face. It occurred to me I’ve never seen him dirty before. Thank you for posting all of these! Keep them coming!
Tears were rolling down my cheeks watching these videos. So proud of Dash. So proud of his parents. Watching my son teaching his son to accomplish new skills. Priceless. And Dash makes a good fish! He is so good at everything he does.
Such wonderful communication from school! Their curriculum is so polished and webbed together. I love how different areas of study interlock to teach concepts. Our schools once did that but unfortunately lost most of it when study became focused on teaching for the state tests.
I LOVE Dash’s self portrait! Very detailed. In great proportion. Colorful and fun textures. Impressive with the hat brim peaking out from behind his head. And of course the curls…wonderful blond curls!
In light of the turmoil our nation is in today, these innocent patriotic children singing about our flag and the rainbow of our citizens brought me to tears. I am more than concerned about the future for these wonderful children. I am worried. I am ashamed of the lack of humanity exhibited by many stirring hatred. I am embarrassed for our nation. These children are our future. Let’s hope their fighting spirit can do a better job than this generation and get our nation and our Earth healthy.
You did a great job videoing . Dash was front and center. He knew every word and sang with confidence and charm. What a sweetie! I miss him and hope we can arrange a time soon to visit.
It doesn’t surprise me that Dash is good at reading or that he loves to read. You and Jeff have passed down your DNA brain cells to Dash and fostered brain growth in every way imaginable…giving him the best learning environment at home, at school and on countless adventures. Kids that are consistently read to will love books. I’m proud of him. I’m proud of his parents.
Please ask Dash if he will read to me when I visit in a couple of weeks. I would love that!
Dear Maida, I don’t know how I missed this post. I appreciate your thoughtful insights and know that Dashiell will grow to be a wonderful and inclusive person. You all make me proud every day!
Wonderful photos! Dash has the face of an angel! You must show his photos to an agency again! Cool photo with double rainbow. Loved all the artwork. I’m so blow away with the quality! It’s so refreshing to see every student took their time and put so much thought into their work.
Dash has ” The Look.” I’m not talking about just the running gear. I’m talking about the look in his eye, the determination, the confidence and the pride. He will need a journal to document his running accomplishments. So glad you got his finish on video!
Racism and discrimination are embarrassments to the human race. Do we dare dream of the day we are judged by the content of our character instead of the color of our skin, our gender, our sexual orientation, our age, our educational level, our disabilities, our economic status and our “beauty”?
It is sad to explain to innocent children the harshness and evils of our world. Especially when they have been brought up without those passed on to them from their parents.
It’s the Dashs, Murphys and Evas of the world that will bring change.
So true! I would love to see each of these kids in public service. I’ve been telling D lately that he’s going to have to become President so he can fix all the damage Trump will do!
Eva wants to be president, too. I would vote for them! Somehow “decent ” people are being kept out of the running. It’s so messed up. Big business, bank and finance institutions, pharmaceutical companies, oil companies are buying their candidates.
Extremely detailed mid-term progress reports in all areas. What a joy to have Dash arrive smiling, positive and eager to learn. Working well with everyone does not surprise me a bit. And helping teach a kindergartner shows his patient kind ways. Encourage him to free build with his legos and see if his problem solving skills improve. Learning that there is not just one “right” way to do something and taking an idea and working with it, maybe even improve that idea is liberating.
Dash is a serious student! Striving for A+ and doing the work to achieve it is admirable. Loved the sleep in note from Mom but I have to point out that Dashiell has better penmanship! LOL
Truly a huge improvement in handwriting! I’m curious if the handwriting model has a style name. I noticed some inconsistencies between the practice letters and Jackie’s writing. The “a” and “d” show both straight down stroke (Jackie) and down stroke with tail (practice sheet). All teachers in our school district were to teach and model the D’Neilian handwriting style with the belief the transition to cursive would be easier. It also has a slight slant to it. I like it and had to reteach myself for writing on the chalkboard. But some schools don’t even teach cursive (usually a 3rd grade skill) today and many adults print their entire lives.
Please tell Dash his Thank you note to me was very nicely written!
Certainly a winter to remember! I had no idea the kids were out for 11 days due to snow and ice. So glad Dash had all the warm gear to play in it. Your street is perfect for playing.
My time with all of you over Christmas was precious! Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, delicious food, Dash reading and playing games are all good memories! Going to Mt Hood was an awesome experience…every day skiing at a different ski lodge. Loved watching all of you ski! I’m still in awe of how good Dash is at such an early age. He is such a trooper! No matter how hard the trek, how cold or windy, how tired his legs or body got, he was ready to go!!!
Thank you all for taking such good care of me and showing me such a wonderful beautiful time!
Another amazing teacher – so thoughtful and insightful. I can clearly imagine Dash going through his day from her words. What a wonderful school. I see that your investment in the ninja camps paid off!
P.S. Love to see his ability to lead and collaborate. Emotional intelligence and compassion combined with a powerful intellect – great parenting is key. Wonderful boy and loving, constant mom and dad. P.P.S. Cool playlist. Not sure how you did that!
Dash is one sharp dresser. I love the red shoes! His drawings of the rainbow trout were excellent…good details, accurate colors and very realistic. I could tell he took his time and really studied all the details of the fish. My mother loved owls. She would really enjoy Dash’s owl. I especially liked his choice of colors and the texture. Good job, Dash!
How adorable is that! So cute with those little baby teeth! I’d like to see Dash’s reaction to watching himself. Even he would admit he was an adorable baby.
This school does such a wonderful job getting the kids on stage performing and in the classroom presenting. Dash already is comfortable in front of a crowd. That is a valuable skill. As he gets older, I see him in more and more major roles. Of course, he was a sweet and animated cloud!
Dash looks pretty tired. Looks like he needs those gears to help him out. The country is so beautiful there. You do such a fabulous job enjoying it and all life has to offer! Impressive. I’m sure the ice cream was a welcome treat.
I love your blog! It really helps when I’m so far away. I get updates on the new adventures, filled with lots of photos and videos. Makes me feel like I’m there to enjoy that moment with you. Thank you, Maida for doing this!
Dash looks like a born baseball player! I can see how the yard got too small. LOL. Looking forward to video of him in action!
Haven’t read the series, yet, but will soon. Looking forward to it!
He looks so “grown up”. I’m super proud of him in developing his independence! A part of me is sad because he is growing up so fast. Even though he is almost 7, he looks, acts and processes things more like 10. His school is nothing short of magical! A perfect match for Dashiells needs.
In my thinking I see third grade as the level for reading chapter books. Dash is so far ahead! How wonderful that he enjoys reading and is not afraid to tackle advanced material! That will open countless doors.
It is also nice he is capable of calming himself down, relax and focus on reading.
That song is almost 6 minutes long. Mackenzie is quite impressive and I can see how Dash would be inspired. He has a good start on Hey Jude. Love the pride on his face as he was able to play it. I want to visit when he preforms his solo next spring!
This school and Dash’s accomplishments continue to amaze me!
Thank you, Maida, for taking the time to post all of this for us!
What a wonderful report. Can’t think of any school that would offer this much. He is going to be a better, all-rounded, person because of it. I am so proud of him, and of his two super parents. Good work !!!
This school is amazing. I can’t help but compare it to the schools I worked at…a district that was rated one of the best in the nation. Hands down the cope and level of learning opportunities is far better. I would place Dash in 3rd grade at the skill level he is already at. It is the perfect marriage of a great school and a great student with an insatiable appetite for knowledge. He also is allowed to develop and use his love for body movement, especially running.
Which Clementine books has he read? The other series has 28 books, with good history sprinkled in (not counting the series on fantasy). I would love to buy some for him birthday if you lead me to which ones.
You once said, “We only have one chance to do this right.” And boy have you! Dash is receiving the best education of any child I have ever met. Backed up by two awesome parents that foster learning with every breath.
Seriously, is there anything that boy can’t do??? Piano, guitar and drums! It would be cool to have him playing drums and guitar overlapped as he played piano. Show him on screen playing the other instruments at the talent show. He will blow them away!
What a special treat to be there when Dash turned 7! The party was so much fun and the wave pool was enjoyed by all. I also enjoyed soaking in the hot tub and watching the kids play. I give the parents an A+ for another awesome birthday party. Thanks for letting me be a part of it!
You are a born writer! So beautifully written I could see it and smell the ocean. Such a warm and creative way to say goodbye to 6 and usher in 7. I would want you to tell me a story every night!
What a wonderful trip! I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed having family all together! A dream come true. Your photos captured the magic . We know Dash plans on another trip “next year”. Thank you for all your hard work planning and making the experience magic for all of us!
So impressive! And, how wonderful to have such a thoughtful teacher. You couldn’t have picked a more perfect school for Dashiell! Lucky boy, lucky teacher. Dash would be a fun student.
Right?! We cannot believe our luck, seeing as contractors are famous for not showing up. So far we are delighted and amazed at their speed and courtesy. Wait till you see Day 5 (just posted).
Thank you for sharing the progress. So impressive. Window placement is very interesting. Hoping weather cooperates for work to continue. Excited to see the new fencing too.
Thanks for checking in, Lori! Looking forward to having a nice big table where we can all sit comfortably to play games and enjoy meals together…hope you can plan a visit once it’s all done!
Oh my! I knew this would be a big project, but until you see it happening, WOW! Very exciting with electrical and unexpected wall construction. These will someday be “fond” memories.
How cute!! He is a good helper!
Who’s my sweet, happy and clean baby??
Look at him walk!!! Your yard looks great!
Great blog, Maida! The farm looks wonderful and the variety is great. Dash will have a lot of choices this summer and you will probably be able to experiment with some new recipes.
Love your blog! Dashiell is so cute! I love Spring too!
Wonderful pictures. So glad the little french shoes fit him. Hope he gets a lot of use out of them.
Dashiell is the happiest little boy ever! If you ever need a smile, just watch one of his videos!
A star in the making!! Great video, even with the hand in the shot, cinematographer! I can see he loves his bath…and standing up!
Auntie Amanda
CUTE!!
Your backyard looks great and the rug goes great with your nice, green grass in the background.
I understood every word he said! I think he said Grandma Lori! 🙂
Who’s cute?? If only his tongue was a little longer he could get those blueberries!
He is so advanced! I would even say that he is gifted!
Awesome! I can just see him at the deli counter trying to get service! He is a natural shopper!
That little shopper went right by the wine! What’s with that?
Well, we definitely have a good feel for the floor plan! I see more of a John Wayne swagger than the Frankenstein lurch or drunken sailor stagger so typical of Dashiell’s contemporaries. I can’t believe how well he is getting around already! Katy, bar the door!
Grandma Sherry, I like the way you think!
Glad it’s finally warm enough for him to wear his summer clothes.
Great shots! Your yard looks so nice! He is so fashion forward, especially the way he is wearing his hat. All the toddlers will be adapting this hot fashion trend! Aunt Amanda
What a big boy – ready for school. The stamp is adorable, as is his “do”, good job dad!
How did you fix the fava beans? Our Mexican store has them, but I don’t have a good recipe for them.
Love your imagery of the sea and labor. You always loved the water, drawn to it just like Dashiell. Hope you find time for a (at least) weekly swim.
He likes the tablecloth because he can do something with it (tear pieces off of it). See how he reaches for the cake? When it’s pulled away from him, he returns to the tablecloth. Little boys like to “do” something. Glad you got him a cake and glad he dug into it later and enjoyed it.
Too true! Normally he always has a toy at hand–but the decks had been cleared for The Big Moment. Of course he didn’t know there was about to be something gooey to play with…
Those pictures are really, really good! I would like to get prints made. Can you put them on Picasa so I can order them??
Oh my! He loves riding with his Dad. How very, very sweet. Love his seat and his helmet.
You added music! Perfect, toolin’ along with Mom. What a lucky little guy!
Love your wide angle shots and sassy turn of phrase. Will check in again, Sony Angel!!
I think the more recent shot was taken for their 50th wedding anniversary, check with Sally to be sure.
Yes, when you see the pics together, you can see the likeness. Thank you so much for the post. Made me cry (in a good way).
HILARIOUS! Don’t get in this shopper’s way.
That is so cute!! I could get my shopping done quickly if you let me borrow Dash! He is on a mission! Love that hair. Love how happy he is. Lucky boy. I miss him so much and can’t wait til Thanksgiving.
I can certainly see Dash being the ring leader. Get used to it. He is always going to be a leader. You can just see it in his eyes and the way he handles himself. He is charming and pulls people in with his radiant smile and zest for adventure. I think he is amazing and a reflection of his amazing parents.
Love the way he puts the cereal he drops back on the spoon. I’m so proud of him!!!! Thanks for posting.
He is pretty good at that. What a hoot when he puts the Cheerio back in the spoon. Looks like he is right handed. Amazing how fast he is growing! HURRY THANKSGIVING!!
I agree with the other two comments – how smart is he!! Cheerio goes on spoon FIRST and mouth SECOND!! Very cute, thanks for posting!
Wow, look at Dash’ halo!! Amazing hair…amazing young man.
I think Dash at his own important question to ask. I noticed he was laughing with Dad!
PLEASE send Dash to help me. He has experience.
He needs gloves, he’s going to get blisters with all that sweeping. Love the laugh.
They do look like angels. Need a print of the last one!
I could watch tis all day! It gets me energized to run errands! So so cute!
Program you GPS for Kansas!!! See you soon!
Two beautiful Knights!!
He will be doing the MS150 with his dad real soon.
Very nice!!
How fun!! Dash is always up for an adventure! Jeff’s expression is the poster boy for pure JOY!
Lisa did a great job!
What a ham!!
The fun never ends!!
Dash is the man!!
That is just beautiful. Love the music, slow motion and lighting. Dash looks like an angel!
Dash looks like he just saw Santa!! The sweetness oozes out of him!
Dash looks like he just saw Santa!! The sweetness oozes out of him! I want to hug hug hug on him!
Was Dash ever a “baby”? He rocketed straight to a little boy, skipping being a toddler. His understanding of the world is so amazing. I really do believe he sees love when he looks deep into the eyes of his grandmothers. What a special soul. I love, love, love him. Thank you to his awesome parents for bringing him to us!!! It was also nice to meet Lisa. She is a brave young girl and very sweet.
It’s true–it’s hard to remember D being a “baby.” He’s been ready for adventure since the moment he was born! Thanks again for our day together!
What creative photos! Dash looks like he is charming Santa! Ho, Ho, Ho! What a magical time for him and you to see the world new through his eyes.
How wonderful! A whole month of gifts is a tradition Dash will want to continue every year! I’m sure Lisa enjoyed getting something from home.
I’m so impressed with her maturity to handle being in a land so far from home. But she got the jackpot when she got you!
Oh my gosh, how old is he?????
He is up to any adventure like an old pro!!! Look at those legs go. He will want to co-pilot next trip!
I say “hilarious”!!! How can one little boy be so sweet?? And funny. And he knows it. He is so happy!! I think it is because every time he looks at his Mom and Dad they are beaming with pride and wearing big smiles on their faces. Just like this Grandma.
Oh My!! What a little traveler. Made me cry, he’s growing up way too fast. He looks so matter-of-fact as he pulls his suitcase.
This made me laugh, but is important concept. So Smart!
Oh goodie, new pictures!!!! This blog is like giving me a massive shot of giggle juice!! It is such a thrill to see Dash in all his adventures! He is such a hoot. Thank you!!
I love how he claps after he puts the ball on the tree. You left me wanting MORE MORE! Such a wonderful time!!!
PS Loved the choice of music.
Only one of many!
Beautiful, perfect music! More! More!
Finally, bet he left it on for 2 seconds, but it sure does look cute (if I do say so myself).
My two babies in Santa’s sleigh. A Kodak moment for sure.
That Daddy is sooo strong.
They look like they could be related.
Those two are so cute together! Lisa is too young to be Dashs’ mother but she looks like she could be. How did that happen? Amazing that two dark curly haired people have a golden blond little angel. OK, they must be brother and sister. But Jeff you were only 15 when Lisa was born. Whatever the numbers you all are the greatest beautiful family!!
So beautiful! Truly meaningful!
Dash really has a connection to the people around him. Most kids are in their own little world and don’t think too much about who is there and who isn’t. But Dash is very aware.
WOW, NOW THAT WAS A CHRISTMAS!!! Thank you so much for sharing all that. I felt I was there. Lots of wonderful manipulative toys to keep that brain of Dash’s growing. You know all these grandparents adore him (not to mention his mom and dad, too). How did you survive all that activity???
What a special gift, one that can be brought out every year. Whoever made it was incredibly patient!!!
Beautiful! True keepsake!
Wonderful photos of you all!
Gorgeous!
Loved seeing Dash’ artwork. I’m sure he enjoyed creating them. It’s it wonderful to see this little guy grow and develop everyday! Impressive that he knows what hat goes to what friend. He is such a sweet, loving, kind, adorable soul I know he has many friends and the teachers love him!
Does Lisa have a lot of homework to maintain straight A’s? She really is an impressive young lady!
What a beautiful family!! Time to change my screen saver again. Thank you Maida for teaching me how to download them. I am going to print some off for my frig. Only problem is I need more room! I hate to put any away where I can’t see them! Thank you for sharing!
Don’t worry Beverly–I’ll send you some physical prints!
The irony is that Dash just might man a sub or space ship! You might be standing at the end of that ramp for real someday waving goodbye. Oh, the possibilities!!!
I bet he slept well that night! Awesome experience!
Wonderful! Agree with Beverly – maybe the shape of things to come?!
Dash is so perceptive and aware of his environment I can see where he knows when anything is out of place or out of routine. There is a sense of calmness for all of us when we know what to expect.
I felt so bad for Dash when I found out he was sick but I knew he would get THE best of care from his parents! It just breaks your heart when children get sick or injured.
Your Mom’s email is worth framing. If you are ever down or just having a bad day, read that email again. It has to warm your heart.
My heart is heavy knowing about the short time your family had with Joshua. I am so sorry.
You can tell he adores her!!!
In the second picture, there’s a little lurker, she’s not too sure about this whole “baby” thing.
Look at that sweet angel face!
What a talented boy! Love the Dash Documentaries! I’m smiling!
XOXOXO From a proud GL!
Looks like he’s been flying in an open cockpit, baby it’s cold outside!
They look comfortable, Grandma wants some too.
Snoopy would be proud!
I can’t wait to see Dash again. I know I will be blown away by how much he has learned! Can you catch him on video talking or signing? I soooo want to see him!!!
Oh, my! I am surprised you couldn’t hear me laughing from Kansas!!!
Tell Jeff, “Yea…Free child labor!!”
But how did Dash get trained so early? It took a lot of head butting with Jeff to attempt the same thing! Did Dash learn his skills from watching his dad?
Send him over to my house – i have plenty of cleaning for him to do! It is amazing you were able to shoot a video of this length without him stopping.
That is hilarious!!!! What a good worker. Do you see how his mouth automatically opens when the water comes out. How funny. Thanks so much.
OH MY! Whose a sweet little one? Made me laugh and tear up both. Thanks you so much for posting
Love it! That is Victor’s sleeper…aw…
Yes, the added bonus is you get to remember Victor at that age. This video was taken when we were in San Diego to meet you guys, Thanksgiving 2010. I think at the time I emailed it to you. This version is slightly edited…
Wow, made me tear up to see Jeff love his little boy so much and to see how much Dash enjoyed it. When the kissing stops you see Dash’s expression change and hear his legs kicking and you can just hear him saying, “Hey, where did all that lovin’ go? It felt sooo good!”
Any the amazing thing is that he will always receive unconditional and bountiful love from his parents!
The show “The Bear in the Big Blue House” was popular when he was little and the bear would start the show by closing his eyes and ‘sniffing’ the air to find you out in the audience. This cracked Victor up and he still thinks sniffing your face and neck are funny….very cute, thanks for posting.
Uh oh! This is way too cute! What will he be when he grows up? A rocket scientist, or a very neat bartender? I’m betting on the rocket scientist! Thanks for making my day!
How cute is that? Dash is such a charmer! Love that chair.
Hey, is it too late to mail the valentine cards. I lost them in the van and they just resurfaced! I am sure Jeff will explain that this grandma is eccentric (and disorganized at times). But I was loving this little valentine the whole time!
That is so cool!
The chair is great! I could use one just like it! Hope the Valentine card was tasty! Thanks for the smiles of the day! XOXOOXO
These are wonderful, I love, love, love the one with the tie and the bare feet. I must have it!!!! So cute!
Thank goodness.
Oh, thank God the doc said it was nothing to worry about! Can’t bear to think of Dash being anything except in perfect health.
When I open the blog and see new pictures and new stories I feel like I am a kid and it is Christmas morning!
Thank you!!!
Time for gymnastics! Cute Cute!
I just want to kiss all over the screen when I see this beautiful charming boy!!! You could have him model clothes or be on TV. He loves the camera. Mom said she has never seen a picture of him not smiling or laughing.
I love him soooo much!
Did Lisa buy the shoes? She sure looked good in them. Very colorful! Cute pic of Dash looking at the tennis shoes with bright green laces.
Does Lisa have a spring break? Only one more quarter left. I can’t imagine how much Dash is going to miss his big sister. She has been so good to him!
Finally! I’ve been waiting for this. He’s a good driver, except he needs to watch where he’s going!! Hiiilarious!
How precious. Definitely likes those left turns! How is he at 80 mph? Soon enough! LOL
He is certainly comfortable with the ice pack. Let’s hope he doesn’t need it too many times! He is so FUNNY! Amazing how he understands all the directions and then walks off saying, ” Good-bye”.
Dash looks like he is telling the waiter, “i’ll take a bottle of your best juice”.
And the one with his head on the table is….”I can’t stand it! I miss Grandma Bubba sooo much!!!”
So true!
What a sweet and gentle voice. You can tell it is a calming song for him.
Interesting how children form such attachments to objects and routines. It brings them comfort in knowing what to expect. Jeff loved his “Ping.” Chris needed his blankie. “Little Sargie” goes everywhere with Murphy.
Isn’t it a joy to experience the developmental stages of this wonderful addition to your life. A little one that finds such awe in the world. And you find such awe in him and thru him. Such a blessing!
I worked right across the street from this fabulous golf course when i lived in San Diego. It is a very beautiful stretch of coastline. Glad you had a nice, relaxing week. Aunt Amanda
What a nice spring break! Wonderful adventures for Lisa and Dash… definitely jet setters. I’m glad you had a chance to catch your breath.
Such a pretty picture of you. Must knit you something in red or garnet
Those curls are beautiful, don’t forget to cut one off to put in his baby book.
19 month old tries to drive while keeping his eye on suspicious looking passenger.
How sweet and how beautiful!
Does he prefer one hand over the other? So cute. And he is a fast little runner! Golfing already? He will be sooo well rounded. What next? And where?
What a beautiful snippet. Where was it taken?
This is the park at Del Mar beach.
Those are good throws from such a little guy! And, so nice of him to return the ball, instead of running away with it!
Wow, good job by all!
Who’s Smart! Our booooy!
She’s lovely!
Wow, great job on the new raised garden. Send the crew out here. We have a lot projects.
Wow! That brought a smile to my day! He is so smart – and a great singer like his mom! 🙂
Beautiful job working as a family! First class job!! How wonderful to have all that “free child labor”…as Jeff would put it! Is there anything he can’t do? What a hoot to see Dash wearing his sun hat working with a broom and rake. Loved the pic of him and Jeff taking a break on the lawn carpet. I felt like I was there but didn’t have to get my hands dirty. Thanks Maida!
If I could wear out a video it sure would be on this one. I loved it! Laughed and laughed at the end when he sang “M e e e e”. Does he already know all the ABC’s? How amazing at what you have taught him! You both (Lisa, too) are fabulous parents!!!
Dash is so adorable I just want to squeeze him to pieces. Counting the days until I can!
Lisa is just a pretty girl! I hope she enjoyed her prom!
Dash giving Lisa the flowers is so sweet. All of you are going to miss her sooo much when she returns to Germany! I see many international visits in the future. She is a part of your family and heart now. I marvel at how mature and brave she is for her age. I see lots of accomplishments in her future. You and Jeff have been great US parents and mentors for her. I can’t imagine how Dash is going to feel when she is not in his everyday life. Thank God for technology and video chats!
Beautiful girl! Beautiful gown! Handsome florist!
Obviously, he is well named. 😉
Oh, Maida. I wish you had a video of me watching Dash. I laughed so hard my eyes are watering. Sparky had to come out from under the covers to see what the heck is going on.
It is unusual the way he draws…not wild sweeping marks, running from side to side. He is INTENSE and precise with small and detailed markings. I would love to “hear” what he is saying inside that head of his!
And good attention span. Loved the way you speeded it up! Sweet having Lisa join him. Does he paint? Eva and Murphy love to. And mix lots of colors, as I only give them the 3 primary colors and white. Maybe a little black at the end.
Thank you so much for the video!!
Wonderful, he’s so intent!
Priceless! So very intent on his work. Next Escher?
Have you ever put one of those step counters on him? He probably does 26.2 miles in a day (and the parent behind him does, too). What a hoot. I have a feeling Dash will always be a man on the move. Rarely will others be able to keep up with him!
What language is that?
Wow, he is so very fast ! Love the sunglasses.
The travelling man with his suitcase! How funny. Couldn’t tell what he was saying except hi to the travelers. You could see he was taking it all in. He has been on a bike, plane, train, car and wagon. Boat next? Hot air balloon? Space shuttle? (Oh yeah, he was in one).
He’s saying “Bridge” when we cross the river 🙂
Keep Lisa…don’t let her go home! She is your family now and Dash loves her so much!
Oh My God…it’s a sin to be that cute! He loves his suitcase! He looks like a young business man off to the airport, paci and all.
Dash sure looks great in a tie. Ready to go party for sure. The ladies can’t wait to get his attention.
Darn…so sorry to hear Dash has been ill! What an amazing personality he has that even through he doesn’t feel well he is still so happy and so engaged. He sure loves riding the bus. You could actually carry a conversation with him…and he is focused on what he wants.
My computer screen is slobbered up from kissing him so much!
Hope Dash feels better very soon. Before you know it, it will warm up and he will want to play outside. Let’s see pictures of him on his new race car. Look out NASCAR !
Jeff – Great work in putting together and staining picnic table.
It looks super !
So so so cute!!!
Dash seems drawn to anything with wheels! And the world is full of them. He has an adventurous spirit for sure! You two are wonderful fulfilling his thirst for fun and knowledge!
How sad!
I think he has excellent fine motor skills. He is such a happy boy. Makes me happy just watching him!
Dash is so good at communicating what he wants. He was very patient at getting ready for the ride. “Beep, Mama”. He knows you need to move so he and his daddy can go for a ride. Sweet scene.
Wish we were there! Such a feast!
Love the fancy footwork!
That is so cute I am at a loss of words!
Now that is quality family time. I bet he turns everyone’s heads!
I didn’t know bath time could be so much fun or so funny!
Dash cracks me up!
Good job Dad and Dash!
Next time your little man pees in his pot I want to see video of the communal PEE PEE DANCE!
America is looking for talent and new groups.
What a wonderful time! Loved spending time with Dash and getting to know him! He is just a jewel. Thanks so much for the pics. Some will go on my refrigerator.
A cherished time of no stress, all rest and play, topped with good food.
Thank you for having us!
Photos are frame worthy! I think I see a larger garden coming. You have a green thumb. Great connection for Dash to understand where food comes from.
Stylin’ on the green!
Thank you for the video chat on the big day!!! I loved it. Can you believe it has been 2 years? On the other hand, I have a hard time thinking Dash is only 2 because he is so advanced and looks so much older than he is.
P.S. That cake looks yummy!
The whistle sounds better when Dash does it! Loved the way he clapped after using it. Wish I was there to sit on the floor and play with his trains with him! That was so much fun!
Can’t wait to see him in his engineer outfit. Didn’t know what size to get him because his is so slim and tall. Hope it fits him OK. He may not understand it is a train outfit but everyone around him will and he will be the star!
If Dash could reach the pedals of the car he would be gone! He has the steering down. Love the way you understand everything he is telling you! And he has lots to say.
Give him a hug from me.
Wow, Dashiell looks so much like you Maida! He is beautiful! Can’t wait to meet him live and catch up on our lives…I think it has been since 1989…can that be right? Only 23 years and we met when you were 16 and I was 17. Yikes!
Beautiful Family!!!
All the best, Audrianna
So cute. Dash is getting really good at independent play. He is the parent to his toys as what has been modeled to him by his parents. He enjoys and loves his toys and wants to make they happy and well cared for. A preview to his parenting skills in the future!
Thanks for more videos!!! I eat them up!
I say, “WOW”!!! What a cool experience. You could just see his brain soaking it all in. He understands all kinds of transportation-land, water, sky and even outer space.
Sure makes you wonder how all these experiences will help shape his future.
Isn’t it time for a cruise with Grandma Sherry?
What no bow after the potty dance?
That boy has rhythm. Loved his head bobbing to the music!
I was hoping for a video of you and Jeff doing the potty dance,too! Any chance of that?
I don’t think Jeff will let me film him, but I’ll work on a clandestine approach…
Yea!
Looks like a great time by all. Grandma Sherry looks good and mobility looks good. Congrats on getting through the recovery.
Beautiful place. I recognize the rock.
What was Dash like with the cute little blond girl? She probably loved him and his awesome eyes!
She did love him, and she had pretty eyes and long blond hair, too. She was 3.5 years old. I think D kept his distance because he was worried she was going to pull his hair like an overly-friendly girl at school does!
Beautiful cinematography! It was a special experience for all of us.
Thanks Mom!
These early pictures will be priceless when he becomes the next Tiger Woods (OK the good traits). He looks so natural. I don’t know any other kid that has the patience or focus to escort 9 holes of golf!
I recognize that handsome Dash driving the cart but who is that mountain man with him? Very good look for him!
What a sweet fort! You can sure tell Dash is thrilled with it. His special little space will bring him comfort and fun! Comes complete with the stars in the sky and stars on his pillow. Lucky little guy.
The outfit is perfect, and, by the time he’s 3 you’ll have to hide the car keys because “me do” might over-ride his caution. Hope you got some golfing in.
What a wonderful Daddy. Everybody loves a fort. The first shots when Jeff asks “who’s in there” are hilarious.
I agree! What a wonderful Mommy and Daddy!!! Both mamas are proud!
Maida with blond hair??? I had to enlarge the photo to figure out which one was you!
What a sweet story and how fun the future will be.
Good thing he is so bright. Because of his height he will always be mistaken for being older than he is.
I think it has a lot to do with those super nutritional drinks you make him (and you when you were pregnant and nursing).
Super tall, super smart, super cute and super loved!!!
I love this…and I love that we have found each other again. It makes my heart happy. I have a lot of photos to share from our adventure. We talked that we were bold, but we were not crazy…I hope we can instill that in our children as well.
I love the photos of all the curly haired boys at brunch….boys are sweet and now we have given the world three of them! Who would have thought of that when we were teens?
Can’t wait for our next gathering….you guys coming to Oregon…adding another state to our list of travels together.
All the best, Audrianna……awedje……auds….
What beautiful birds. Is Dash afraid of them? Do the owners know where their kids are? Love the music. I’ve never knew it before.
Wow! They are beautiful. All I’ve ever had in my yard was a rooster, and he only stayed 5 minutes.
Run, run and have some fun!
I think I saw a touchdown in there somewhere!
Track? Rain or shine!
Wish Eva and Murphy were there playing with him! Lots of laughter and screaming for sure.
Every second of these videos is a jewel!
I just want to grab that little guy as he is running past and kiss him!!!
I’m sure Dash loves having new friends and interacting with them. Looks like fun!
I definitely qualify as Dash addicted! Just can’t get enough of him! Love looking at all the photos. Thank you and keep them coming!!!
Your guest room is never empty. I bet Dash is curious about the next guest when the door opens.
I know everyone had a great time! Good photos. Hope you get some time to rest!
He has his suitcase. Is he coming to Grandmas house???
He looks like a 4 year old. Beautiful photos! Beautiful boy!!
That is such a nice hat, will keep him nice and warm this winter. He and Robot seem to be enjoying the colorful leaves.
He is so kind and sweet. What a jewel!
Beep, beep Mommie! Who is cute?
How do you spell patience? L O V E .
You can just see his mind churning all the time. Great thought is given to his day!
The gates go down, the big truck can’t make it through. That’s the same truck that threatened to cross the track and hit the train. OH NO!
Great videos of conversation at breakfast about day ahead. He sure likes the pumpkin !
Gosh, he is very detailed in his independent play! He has a whole book going on up there in his head. Cool.
Love the way he arranges the pumpkin and his dish at the very beginning. That Alora must be a bad girl!
Great ‘Jack O Lanterns’. And one cooked on the grille !
Wonderful pumpkin farm. Dash looks so big. Trick or Treat !!
How much fun can one kid have? Wonderful photos! Lots of learning experiences and good memories. Did Dash trick or treat? Did he get candy?
I remember the first time Eva had Halloween she learned the word “candy” and she loved it!
Looks like Dash loved the whipped cream.
What fun! And good exercise.
Dash is the happiest little boy! I love his laughter!!! I swear he is going to be a track star some day. Run, run, run…always running.
What a cool cozy fort for him to relax in.
Oh, my, that is so sweet! I love it when the lights come on and he looks up and soaks it all in awe!
And behind Dash I see my son with such joy, pride and love on his face! It brought me to tears.
Dash has such attention to detail. Smart young boy! I remember when I first started teaching art there were kindergartners who didn’t know their colors. Dash,so young, so aware, so blessed with parents who provide him with tons of learning experiences!
He sure knows the names of all his train friends. Great set up on the Thomas track…crossing, hills, intersection, drawbridge complete with boat. I can’t wait to play with him!
That house is quite the treat. Yummy! What child wouldn’t love that!
Wow, I couldn’t believe all the great new stuff on the blog to enjoy!
Wonderful photos. I saved most. The one of the three of you with the evergreens in the background (Jeff sporting a mustache) is my new screen saver). Will enjoy it everyday.
That’s a beautiful train, what does it do the rest of the year?
It sits in a new museum: http://www.orhf.org/
Someday when Dash grows up and reads this blog he is going to say, “Wow Mom and Dad, you did all this for me?”
You can’t top meeting Santa on a steam engine train!
Chopping down your own Christmas tree from the forest and one on one with Santa on a train makes me wonder what next weekend will bring.
Will you adopt me?
I’m impressed!!!
Dash is such a ham! He knows when you are proud of him. I love his expressions!
I love it! I think you are the bomb! I am getting such a kick out of the headlight shot I am going to use it as my screensaver for awhile.
Maida you can do anything!
I will bring some engraving bits when I come. How fun!
Great, looking forward to it! Thanks to all for the encouragement.
Are you sure he is not thinking, “I wonder if these are the cookies I should make for Grandma Bubba when she comes.”
Great shot! Destine to be a screensaver.
TOO CUTE – that made my Monday morning!
Dash played a fun game with me while I was visiting – i showed him my iPad photos and he kept switching the names “Mommy” with “Aunt Amanda” and vice versa. After i pointed out our eye color difference, i saw the mischievous glint in his blue eyes…..”me silly”!
How funny! He is an iPad addict. Isn’t he good at the iOS gestures, like swiping? Soon he will be pinching to zoom in.
I wish I could have been there to see him open all the boxes. What a sweet boy, and the talking, amazing.
He is really talking! In full sentences. Love the way both of you interact with him engaging his language development. What a bright boy!
His wonderment of the surprise packages is so sweet!
I love that diagonal shot of him wondering if he forgot the salt!
Engaging Dash in all these wonderful life experiences is creating one very intelligent, well rounded happy boy!!!
Dash won the lottery when he “was assigned” his mother and father!
The rest of us won the Lottery when we received Dash!!!
Way to go! Impressive!
Beautiful photos!
Wow! Jeff is the best Dad ever. I’m impressed with the privacy screen! Is that little guy warm enough? He’s bundled for the artic. And, he’s awful cute.
This one NOT frozen…this one frozen – OH RATS!
I love our little geese piglet, how cute is he?? Growing so much. Your’re being so smart with your strategies. Remember how crazy it was when he wouldn’t sleep? Wonder how your ex-nanny’s baby is doing? Maybe her baby won’t sleep now.
This is the funniest one ever!
What a ham! It took me a minute to figure out he was making the noise by pulling the pot down on his head. What a sense of humor!
The train outfit is adorable on him. I don’t remember what size it is but he is so tall I am clueless on his size. Better to buy big…he’ll get there!
So happy to see the variety of art projects, I could just see Dash making them. The last one made me want to eat it!
Don’t you just marvel at how much he knows, how fast he is learning and how serious he is at learning everything! Need more “input”!
I can’t wait to see him!
I can always count on something new on your blog that is going to make me bust out laughing! Oh, I wish I could show these to Mom.
Some people just love to do house work in the nude. As long as it gets done just look the other way!
Dash with his headlamp on working on the IKEA project is a genius in the making. Throw away those assembly instructions…not needed when the Weiss men are on the job!
How exciting to have a newborn in the house. Everyone is so happy, including the new big sister.
Dash is so beautiful in every photo! Looks like he is wearing the train outfit I sent him. I am so glad he likes it. Most kids hate to get clothes for Christmas.
Love it!!! Very clever! I am enjoying Dashiell’s glitter phase.
Dash is the happiest little boy! Your love for him just beams through his eyes!!!
I especially loved the arty shot of Dash and Jeff peeking at the top of the yellow slide.
Dash looks so grown up. Amazing how fast he is growing. Does he talk up a storm and ask a ton of questions?
I love them all! Would like prints of 3, 4 and 9, if it’s not too much hassle.
If you put them on Picassa I can print them from there. Would be easier, I think.
Wonderful photos! Precious family and beautiful day!!
It’s so hard to pick only a few!!! If you can I would like 1,4,7,9,10 and 20.
I love them all! Thank you.
These haircut pictures are wonderful, he goes from skeptical to proud and his hair looks very good!
Wonderful!!!!!!
You are my sunshine!!!!!
Dash is so sweet! Wow, what a mouthful of teeth. I didn’t know 2 year olds have that many teeth. He has a beautiful smile to go with those awesome eyes.
Over the river and through the woods to grandmothers house you go!
Such a beautiful adventure!
You can tell the hairdresser was good with him,,,talking everything through. He has such awesome hair!!! Reminds me of the statue of David by Michelangelo. I’ve never seen such beautiful locks on a person before Dash.
Dash is a natural in front of the camera. So funny, so deep in thought, so cute!
I’ve been in that line at the crossing guard!
Can’t wait to play with him!
What a wonderful Easter. The pictures are adorable!
Dash is so adorable! What great memories! Loved all the pictures! Thanks!
It was a marvelous week! Can’t tell you how many times I have relived it. And I came home with a souvenir pink mohawk! I had so much fun and looked forward to Dash waking me up every day. What a sweet way to greet the day looking at his warm smile!
Can’t wait to come again!
Love, love, love all of you!!!
So many amazing experiences for Dash…sitting in the pilot seat of a jet, ringing the bell of a fire truck, sitting in a real glider being pulled around by a tractor and riding in dozens of trains and trolley cars!
Those bright eyes, beautiful smile and his charm opens lots of doors!
Question about the golf cart…will your car insurance cover damages?
Thanks for the latest news!
Wow, the quilt is beautiful! As a fellow quilter I know all the work that went into it. So thoughtful.
That’s a fantastic gift! Good work Grandma Beverly. Just perfect for our little fireman. And good work to Dad, what a great one.
Wow, he looks so cute in that thing. I could hear that bell ring! Hope it wasn’t too much of a pain to put together. Glad it is done and hope he gets to enjoy it this summer. He is so smart. He’ll figure out the pedaling
Thank you for the pictures!!!! Love them!
Jan will enjoy the quilt highlighted. She really worked hard on it. Very pretty.
Love you all!! .
Be,autiful portrait!!!!
So adorable!!
Well, how cute is that!!!
I cant get the last two videos to play. 🙁
Sorry Beverly–check the posts now.
Sorry…still wont work.
Try re-loading the page (ctrl + R). You should see an orange “click here.” Are you using Chrome?
The new singer to take over from Sinatra, et all.
I want to be the agent ! ??
OMG…I love it!!! And it does look like the cala lillies! So sweet. Good job, Mom!
Wow, I love the calla lilies, hope you’ll save these!
He has soooo many cool adventures! Look at all the educational exposure! You make life so magical for him! He is one lucky dude!
I love all the new photos! Thanks for the firefighter ones. Looks big on him yet. But even real firefighters roll up their pant legs. How did they manage to switch a train track or was that just staged? After sitting in a jet cockpit and pushing buttons, I will believe anything! You never cease to amaze me with all the things you do with Dash! A match made in heaven…one extremely bright boy and two bright parents who fill his days with TONS of stimulation!!!
I agree!
So impressed with Dash’s planning and negotiating skills! Such an amazing gymnastics center. What a fun time for your family!
The boys did actually switch the tracks. These are down in an industrial area by the river and I don’t think the tracks have any activity. Still Jeff was alarmed when he saw a patrol car nearby. He quickly switched the tracks back and they made a run for it…
LOL. That would be a surprise to have to bail out your two men for train track mischief!
Thank you so much for the birthday video chat with Dash! I was really looking forward to it! Excited about the news of a December visit! However, I am missing everyone so much any chance of me visiting sometime in September?
Love you!
When you have time (Hah!) can use send me a copy and I will print out. Thank you for taking some of your precious time to post your blog, so we can watch our baby grow and learn.
Beautiful boy. My heart is full.
Modern family!
He looks so grown up! He is so amazing and is like his parents who can (and do) anything!
The place looks like so much fun! And he looks so flexible. You can tell he is really listening and studying his instructor.
Do you have videos?
I agree!! Dash looks like an angel from heaven! He would be in paintings by Raphael and sculptures by Michelangelo had he lived in a different time.
He is gorgeous!!!
What fun! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate my ipad for facetime!!! It was wonderful seeing him blow out his candles and all of us singing happy birthday to him!
We all love him so much it is easy for us to want to send him things. And he has such a wide range of things he enjoys.
Thank you for the 2013 style birthday party!!! I could almost taste that cupcake!
Digital art is certainly a new media for me. Sometimes I feel like I am drawing with a tree limb instead of an old fashioned sharp pencil’
I am inspired by my beautiful grandchildren! Anyone playing Draw Something 2 look me up under the name “alwaysputtering” and play a game with me.
Who painted the little Dash?
We did that “together”–he told me what he wanted then I did the executing…he’s not quite brave enough to do it himself, I don’t know why.
Although he is aware of all the various body parts and colors, it is awhile before they can put in all together in sequence. He is way too young to draw a person yet. I was quite taken back thinking maybe he had at a new 3. That level of drawing would be amazing at 5. But him watching you do it will help him put it all together.
Dash is growing up with such a huge and wonderful exposure to family and friends! He is going to think everyone has a revolving guest room of loving and admiring people! What excitement when he wonders who is coming next?
I just want to reach into the screen and grab him!!! He is so beautiful!!! The last drawing I did of him (the one you mailed me) everyone raved about his beautiful eyes and hair.
Looking into his eyes is like making a direct channel into his and your soul. That level of connection. You just can’t look away and neither do you want to.
To say Dash is a beautiful child is a gross understatement!
The pictures are great! Wonderful that they could come over.
Who is the cutest little boy in the whole world!!!
How cute! He is going to be a track star. He loves to run!
Wide range of media and textures!
Very detailed!!! Thanks for posting!
Two beautiful boys!!! That little dark haired one still lives in my heart! I can see him in my mind’s eye just like it was yesterday. And my heart is full of love!
Oh my, he’s Daddy’s boy (execpt for Grandma’s blue eyes).
Someday Bear will be his children. You have taught him those loving skills and he is already passing them down. He knows how it comforts him to be talked to and loved on. what an amazing young man!!!
Role playing is a good way to address inner fears. The bear story is so sweet.
Beautiful shots, love the flowers.
I love seeing how happy this little guy is! Can’t wait to see everyone again!!
Adorable photos! I’ve been enjoying them as screen savers.
Fabulous photos! You should put hem up on Flickr.
Fun pictures. Dash is so big!
Love the new pictures. Lots of new screen savers!
Your dad looks good.
What a lovely account of a traumatic experience. Thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you for keeping us informed. The videos really helped to calm my nerves down that Dash was handling every thing in stride. HE IS SO SWEET!!! Precious beyond words!
I sure hope this is the end of his pneumonia! Poor little guy doesn’t deserve to have this adventure.
Give him hugs for me!
Dash has good rhythm with that right foot! So cute!
That was so much fun. Thank you for letting me be a part of that. Perfect place for Dash to have lunch!
Pure love…a match made in heaven!
I can’t tell you how it warms my heart to see Jeff smiling and such a proud daddy!
Dash has so much confidence sitting on Santa’s lap and telling his what he wants. Secure and grown up little guy!
Love seeing the cousins together having fun! Looks like a great reunion.
What a beautiful boy!!!
I just want to grab him and hug on him!
How delightful! Christmas through the eyes of a child is a magical thing. Watching Dash brings joy to your soul. I’m sure he loved every minute of it!
Such simple needs, crackers! Hilarious!
So very cute!!
How sweet!
What a cute story teller!!! I am laughing out loud! He is so precious!!!
Wow, I too could understand every word. And, what an expressive rendering of that great poem too.
I just had to watch that again! I should start my day out everyday by watching him! Still laughing out loud!
Proud grandmother here! I love his self portrait. I printed it for my fridge.
Home on a rare snow day. What could warm you more than reading about our sweet boy! So proud! Love the self portrait!
And such wonderful caring parents.
Love GL
Oh, my! I could put the video in a loop and watch all day! I want to hug him right now!
How sweet! Your little valentine loves you both!
So glad Dash is a man of many hats! To the rescue for you and the community! What a blessing!
Glad you got enough snow to play in. We have TONS here I would like to send you. Been bitter cold here and too dry to build snowmen. Schools were out almost a week.
You made it so much fun!
So many costume changes! Dashiell needs his own dresser!
What brave boys!
You make snow days seem cozy and fun, and at your house, it is.
What a moving tribute. Glad you included the part about the slaughterhouse.
A beautiful tribute to a great friend.
Another visual artist in the family! I will tape my iPad to the fridge.
🙂
I’m surprised the weather was warm enough for Dash to dance through the sprinkler. How delightful. He loves life to the fullest!!!
I can clearly see it.His point of perspective is interesting. He is such a sponge soaking up every experience!
What an incredible man! Your love and respect for him is obvious. All you learned from him and your relationship with him will be passed down to Dash. He is 100% engaged in life and the love of learning!
I put the second photo of Dash as my screen saver and was greeted this morning by his sweet sweet smile. Love his warmth that jumps right off the screen and into my heart.
He is getting so tall, look how long his legs are!
ALL the work, long days and sleepless nights all fade away when your son says “You’re the best Mommy ever”. He is the sweetest!
I can just see his excitement answering the call and focused on the mission! I think I see a glimpse of his future!
Dash is so incredibly beautiful! I just stare at him.
That is a huge cup of hot chocolate! Looks like he likes chocolate. Yummy.
Good work Agent Weiss!
Looks Yummy!!!
I have lots of blinds that need cleaning! But the view won’t be an interesting. I’m sure the school appreciated all the wonderful help!
Wish I had been there! I would have helped him finish!
Best special agent ever! So very sweet!
What a beautiful church you have!
Hands on. Nature in real life. Doesn’t get any better than that!
WOW. Yes that’s how it happens for all of us, Now he’ll be able to ride a 2 wheel bike because he’s mastered the balance. What a nice Mother’s Day gift.
Very nice and great doing 2 things at once. I love the part where he takes a big sigh and sings “I love the daffodils”.
MORE! MORE!
I really needed this wonderful performance and great laugh out loud! He has such character! Please post more!!!
Bike balance at only 3! Wow, Dash can do everything! Amazing kid with 2 amazing parents!!!
What can I say? I see greatness! I will start the fan club! I could put this in a loop and watch all day. A star struck GL!
Hey, he’s really getting the singing and strumming thing. Very cute!
Wow! Good spatial development going on here.
Gosh, all those little pieces, certainly involves patience.
I can’t believe a 3 year old can do that! He has to study the photo, study the shapes in likes and differences, study the direction of shape and placement. And he has to have the physical dexterity to manipulate them.
Good job, Dash (and Dad).
What wonderful pictures!! Yes, just keep plugging away, remember you girls and all the things you finally learned to try and like…mostly thanks to Kay. Neither one of you were giver-uppers, Think that’s part of the “Edwards” DNA. We hate to give up, it’s so satisfying when you break through.
What an incredible young man. Finishing the walk is amazing. He has such patience. You’ve done a great job!
Love the finished Legos. I can see why he wants to play with them. It’s good for him to see a pile of parts to come together to create something fun. Wish I was there to play with him!
Such sweet bonding and teaching times. Wonderful parenting!
So impressed! Makes me remember Jeff and Chris at the MS 150 bike race. Note to Jeff: see how well Dashiell tolerates parental videos! 🙂
He is so brave. So confident. Such a grown up little guy. Wonderful he gets to do these extra activities.
Yea, more great photos! I will enjoy them as screensavers. He looks like a pro skater! He wears many hats. He is so engaged in life and all it’s wonderful adventures!
Doesn’t that look like fun? Can the parents do it too?
Wow! How special. And I got to watch him fall asleep tonight. Wasn’t easy, lots of wrestling and pacy, but he did it. Our Baby!
Words fail me. So precious. So dear. A lovely song by our beautiful boy. Heart is full.
Don’t you just want to grab him up and love on him? Doesn’t get any sweeter than that! What a precious love.
Wow. I’m so jealous of the awesome legos. They must have been pricey. Dash has such long fingers I thought it was Jeff’s hands. S0 ground up.
Cutest Martian on Planet Earth!
Lovely! Especially the one of the bride and groom. Thank you so much.
Oh, a Martian! I’m scared….
Lovely wedding. I can tell Dash soaks up every adventure. Sweet pictures.
Such wonderful adventures!!! Dash is going to be so well rounded and have no fear to try anything. And if he slips up, he rights himself and keeps going. What wonderful life lessons!
What precious photos. He is such a happy boy! He looks 6 or 7. I love his smile. I’m sure missing him and his charm.
This will help him learn to ride a bicycle!
Going to be great, lots of pics I hope.
Wow! Now that is a party! Looks like everyone had a wonderful time. Love that Joe made it to the party and got to spend some time with everyone.
Your little boy isn’t so little anymore. He is growing so fast.
Adorable! I love him and miss all of you!
That was a perfect way to send off the paci! Good job. How is he without it?
There has been some backlash but we’d seen his behavior “evolving” before the paci went away too…but 4 is not without its challenges!
What cuties! I love to see Dashiell so happy with his little friends. Such great memories!
Amazing! Such great skill! And, where else but Portland would you find a Himalayan food cart! Really?!
Don wants to know if the Himalyan food truck is an artisinal Himalayan food truck!
You know it!
I recently heard someone remark about all things artisinal: they’re only artisinal until someone figures out how to automate making the stuff.
These are wonderful, they do great work!!! And you had him dressed just perfectly…my favorite with a tie. Thank you. And do I want prints? You bet, just have to figure out which ones. You should submit these to modeling agencies for sure.
OMG…I want them all!!! He is gorgeous! I just want to kiss and hug on him. He is so model material! I bet he could earn his college education! He has such warmth and sweetness in front of the camera. I would buy anything that kid is selling!
Oh My!! So big and is doing so well. Great pictures, thank you!
He looks like a Pro! Watch out world. I see a lifelong biker in the making.
Dash looks like a natural and a distance biker. How wonderful for family outings! He is so blessed to have the incredible parents he has.
And you both are so blessed to have such a remarkable boy!
Does it have hand brakes or foot brakes?
hand brakes
hand brakes
I was watching video again and noticed that he’ll need a new bike soon, as he is so tall that his knees will be hitting the handlebars soon.
Yes, we wanted to get him the next size up but he just wasn’t quite comfortable enough.
Great new bike and Dash loves it
Wonderful new floors. They look great and will be easy to care for. What a job in moving all the furniture out. Enjoy new floor!!
Great…that IPhone was worth every penny. Thank you.
What a great Park with the water falls. I remembered going there a couple of times when visiting. And great new phone Jeff.
Grat soundtrack! I can’t tell you how hard it is not to remix with Chariots of Fire just for fun!
Floors are beautiful! Love the color.
Dash looks like an angel! He is such a beautiful boy. I’m enjoying the wonderful photos on my refrigerator.
Sweet video. I can see Dash in track, Put those long legs to work.
Wonderful!!!! And, having fun with the puppy. You are so right to treasure every moment.
Thank you, trying to remember the words was driving me nut! Think there’s one more chorus.
How nice. Hope it takes standard batteries.
Dash, you are welcome. glad you like the “pablo”. Have fun on Halloween.
grandpa Ed
The body language of the two children is interesting. The girl is in a defensive position, Dash is open.
Wow, beautiful floors! Love the color.
Truly, Dash should be a model. He is sooo gorgeous.
How funny. Dash is so animated! He is my favorite nut!
I so miss that time with my boys when they were Dash’s age. I wish they could sit on my lap and let me hug and kiss on them again.
It is easy to see you both treasure every moment with Dash and create endless adventures together. Such love.
Can I have the blue and white one for my bathroom?
Unfortunately I didn’t keep it; I scanned it in and tossed it, since my “memento” basket is full. I need to go through it and clean out some older things, that might seem less precious now that time’s gone by…I did keep the sparkly pink footprint, if you want that?!
Beautiful,
Loved every one of them, but especially loved the snow covered trucks and cars!
So very serious and well dressed! And, of course, so cute. Hey, the second two movies are very short, are they supposed to be that way??
Each movie should be about 1 minute long. Maybe try again?
Oh, I love cherry pie. I want a bite!
Love the look he’s giving Santa, very suspicious.
Santa is very efficient, but hasn’t entered the computer age…a handwritten letter. How refreshing.
Gosh, what a detailed list for Santa. I hope he gets what he wants! Santa knows what an angel he is!!!
I noticed that look, too. Wonder what he is thinking.
Send both of us one of those cherry pies!
And you guys. I miss you!!!
Dash has such a good attention span and very deliberate with his play. I am amazed he has learned each different sound for each rescue vehicle. Awesome! Bright, bright child!!!
Bob laughed and laughed. He said Dash had the sounds down. When people don’t move they throw every sound at them. How perceptive.
And an artist too!
Bow tie, clip board, and portfolio at four. This boy will go far!
The whole site looks much different. Larger type and pictures and a cleaner looking display. Did you change it ? Looks great !!
Yes, I updated the site so it uses a new theme. I think it is easier to read and hope you all like it!
Beautiful! I LOVE that program. You will have to get a wiggle on and bake another confection. I am pulling for Chetna!
Dashiell is indeed stylin’! Love the action shots!!
Gould’s bakery closed a couple of years ago. It was a wonderful bakery with all fresh made items.
What wonderful pictures. I enjoyed them so much. You certainly have a spectacular spring, and look at how big that boy is getting!
Outstanding! You created such an awesome boy and he received such awesome awesome parents!
Beautiful boy! He looks so professional in his style! Thanks for the wonderful new pics for the refrigerator!
Professional photos showing such beauty! Dash just takes my breathe away! He is the most beautiful boy that oozes with love and kindness.
Kleenex, please!!
Dear Dashiell,
Thank you for the kind and sweet letter. Yes, I had lots of fun playing with you! My favorite part was watching you run and run and run!
I’m glad you like your soccer clothes. You make a wonderful soccer player! I have new pictures of you posted on my refrigerator. I love looking at you every day.
I miss you! I love you!
Grandma Beverly and Sparky, too.
Dash should be the poster boy for playing soccer! It isn’t any cuter than that!!!
Beyond adorable!
I have told the story several times when Dash thought I would be a tree when his dad is 64. I chuckle every time!
Dash asked me how old I am. Then he asked Jeff how old he would be when his dad is 64. Then I asked Jeff how old I would be when he turns 64. Very calmly and sweetly Dash said, “Grandma you will probably be a tree.”
I want to be a white Dogwood! (But not until Jeff is almost 64)
Thank you for sharing that story!
Oh My! It’s a lovely tooth, it will be fun to see the new one come in. Wonder if you will have another loose one soon. Let me know what the tooth fairy brings.
Seems early to lose a tooth. I would have liked to see that. Did he wiggle it out? Did Dad tie it with thread to a motorized car and pull it out? What did the tooth fairy bring? Looks like a premium tooth! Sweet boy is growing fast!
Update: we have a second loose tooth!
I asked D what he wished the tooth fairy would bring him; we’d been reading a book about how the Tooth Fairy got her job and why she brings coins (it’s a long story!). So he decided he’d take a coin, but also wanted a chocolate. I told him I’d send her a message. She must have received it, because the next day to tooth was gone, and in its place was a shiny 1 Euro coin and a special chocolate truffle.
Now, that’s the kind of report card Grandma’s like to see!! Good work Dashiell.
These pictures are great! So nice of her to take them. And, our boy is so photogenic!
Wonderful photos of so many interesting activities. Dashiell is such a beautiful young man! I can’t take my eyes off him. I try to imagine what he is thinking because you can tell in the photos he is deep in thought.
You can tell the acorn didn’t fall far from the tree. With two super intelligent parents who give 150% to the best care of their awesome boy it is no wonder he is as he is. So proud of all of you!
Gosh, what a sweet trip down memory lane. Wonderful photos! Fun to see Jeff as a baby. I remember taking that photo. And seeing Mom, who I miss so much. Was that from your wedding?
Thank you for putting this together!
That’s just life.
Our fantasy world verses our real world but both marvelous.
So cute. Hungry little caterpillar! Dash is beyond sweet! You must be beaming with pride when you sit there and watch him perform so confidently. He is so adorable!!!
I could eat him up! (Would I then turn into a beautiful butterfly)?
Well, you might!
I say this because we just learned that scientists actually don’t really know how the butterfly is created. They do know that it’s not what we all thought it was. The concept of the caterpillar getting into its chrysalis then turning into a butterfly is not really what happens. It turns out the caterpillar basically disintegrates in there, turning into a yellow goo. Then the butterfly is created out of the goo, a totally new being.
You know, his kind soul just brings tears to my eyes. His pure joy over a visit from a hummingbird to enjoy the nectar of your new plants shows how in tune he is with things beyond himself. He is a kindred spirit now to that bird.
So true. He has bonded with those tiny creatures, it is so sweet.
We try to really emphasize that all life is sacred and everything is here for a reason, even the animals we perceive as “bad” like wasps (who recently took up residence on our eaves). I told D that without wasps we wouldn’t have a cool vehicle like a Vespa (Italian for wasp!) and we’d have a lot more mosquitos too…
I so enjoyed the prayer and the crickets story. Yes, night time noises can be very soothing. Once I heard an owl, he was ho, hoing and it had an echo to it. Never have heard it again.
What a wonderful story. Especially loved the crickets going home for dinner. (I wish the crickets in my head would go home. Because of hearing damage I hear them 24/7. Every night is like I’m outside camping.)
You have fostered in Dash such compassion, empathy and caring for the world, down to it’s smallest creatures. What a gift to give him. As he matures I predict he will be one of Earths guardians. And as the leader he will be he will influence others as well.
Hi Beverly, I am so sorry to hear about your constant crickets. After my concussion I can totally relate; I often smell sulphur and taste aluminum. These darn bodies!!
Good job stretching out the big 5! Lots of cool presents. I can’t believe he is 5. Then on the other hand he is much older than 5. What an awesome young man!
What a birthday. We all love him so much.
That scooter is the coolest thing I’ve ever seen! He looks like a natural on it. I want one!
I would have a hard time picking out only a few. Very interesting eye with a real attention to details. Especially enjoyed photos of his beautiful mother who is usually behind the camera. Dash has so many interests! He is very engaged in life! Thanks for sharing his photos. I really liked them!
He is quite he little shutterbug! Obviously runs in the family!
It’s interesting to see what he’s documenting. Very interesting, and I agree he has an eye for textures and color.
wow, an educational birthday party! Hope they all washed their hands before those cupcakes.
Dash is amazing! You can tell he has no fear of any of these creatures and actually enjoys interacting with them. I there anything he is afraid of? The birthday party was one to remember. The school is impressive.
I tried to download some of the photos but was unable. Any advise?
OMG! He is born to ride a bike! I can’t believe have fast he learned and how fearless and un-distracted he is on the middle of the highway! Remarkable!
I’m so glad you got that on video. How amazing and I loved his beaming smile after! You have already fostered a love for books and coupled with the schools well planned reading curriculum Dash is destined to be a big reader.
Marvelous school! You and Jeff have done an incredible job providing the BEST foundation for Dash’s educational needs! This school doesn’t leave anything out. And in tandem with the love of learning you have fostered in Dash since birth he is truly amazing.
Oh, I forgot to mention how adorable and sweet he looks. Love the bow tie!
A great learning tool. The love of reading is the key to an amazing future.
Jeff is a great Dad. Taking the time to sit with him as he learns is so important.
What a cool dude!
How handsome he is!
What a wonderful vacation. Thank you for sharing!!!
Fun adventure! I can see Dash loving it! He is such a sponge. Thanks for all the good photos.
How cool is that??? Love the water sound and it’s a great way to develop leg and arm muscles. He is so cute, rowing away.
They are adorable!
The good guy!
I have this glimpse into the future: Dash is off to college and the captain of the rowing team.
Right!?? He’ll be tall enough, that’s for sure.
What a wonderful school, he’s a lucky boy!
I love it when art projects are inspired by famous works of art. And discussing details of the artist’s life brings greater understanding of the artist and his/her work. Dash is such a sponge he’ll be wanting to know more and more.
Officer Weiss needs a break once in a while. It’s hard work being a peace keeper.
The activities at this school are wonderful. What a blessing that Dash can go there. And he is such an asset for them, too.
What a handsome officer!
Looks like the kids had a lot of fun with their tambourines. Our boy is so cute!
Stars are born! Can there be a cuter group of kids?!
Such a wonderful learning environment. Very special teachers for our very special boy!
Wow! Good thing you named him “Dash”.
Awesome! Good work.
Such a good lesson to learn at an early age. He did a great job and looks so hip!
He is doing great. His cousin Josh was a black belt and teacher. Barb would love to see this. Will direct her to your blog.
I was so glad I got to see this first hand. Dash is a natural. He knew all the moves and executed them flawlessly. He seriously wanted to make the Master happy and “Obey my parents, Sir!”. Between that and The Eve on The Shelf (who reported to Santa every night), Dash worked really hard on being on his best behavior.
Personally, I think he is an angel!
Dash has wonderful stage presence. He knew all his lines and songs and spoke loudly with distinction. I especially enjoyed hearing him singing them freely throughout the week.
The school is amazing and was thrilled I got to be there for this event.
Lookout Earth, indeed! Major Dash will make his mark!
I Really enjoyed this. What a cute little astronaut.
Awe…the beginning of homework. You made this fun. Of course his favorite pair was Mom and Dad! BTW, his drawing shows a great understanding of the body! It’s in proportion, has shoulders, arms come out in the right place, good torso, adult length legs, good feet and awesome hands. Very impressive for his age!
Oh my, that looks so real!!! Dash plays the part to the tee. I bet he gets lots of attention. That was a great place to take him! He could be their poster child.
My visit was the best Christmas I have had in decades! All play. No work. Great food. Lots of love!
Loved every minute playing with Dash! Enjoyed watching him earn his yellow belt, play tennis, ice skate and perform in his school program. His many talents amaze me!
Thank you all for the best gift ever!
Oh my, I laughed til I cried! Even though I’ve watched it several times, I gotta go watch it again!
Oh my!!! Words fail me! How can anyone ever top this! Instant love!
Dash, you are a natural! I love how well you listen, how straight up you sit, how high you kick, how fast you are, how loud you are and you keep advancing. Congratulations! Very well done!
Very impressive art! The copper piece is stunning! I liked Dashiell’s part of the Kindergarten Kandinsky! Everyone worked hard. I hope the auction was a huge success!
I never get enough pictures! I love these! You should put together a slide show of all the different personalities of Dash…golfer, soccer player, biker, Spider Man, Incredible Hulk, Captain American, astronaut, police man, train engineer, walrus, firefighter, weight lifter. rower, runner tennis player, etc.
But most of all the world’s best Grandma Hugger!
Wow, very impressive. Why do some kids have blue suits on? He struggled a little with the phone (understandable since you have 505 number now). So proud of him.
The kids in the blue suits have committed to the Black Belt program, which I think is a 2-3 year program.
You worked hard, and it shows. Hope you made tons of money.
We grossed $105,000!
Holy cow!!! That is amazing! Great job!
Lovely pictures, will look at again and again. Know you have lots of things to do and so thoughtful of you to take the time to let us Grandmas share his life.
W———h———-a———-t a————– k———–i————d!!!!!!!!!!!!
Too—–ooo———fun—–nnny!
Love being able to see the action in slow mo! I watched the fast one several times and Dash was so lightening fast it was hard to see the contact with the board. He caught a lot of air on that bike jump. I’m glad he had his brain bucket on as he headed for that fence. What a dare devil!
I didn’t even know what a Venn Diagram was until I got to graduate school..
Right!!??
Such lucky kids to have a caring and creative teacher. Dashiell will have the fondest memories of the school!
I love the face shot of Dash! It took my breathe away at how angelic and beautiful he is!!!
Great school. I know he enjoyed ranting about blowing the house down.
Our handsome boy! He always makes me smile!
You deserve a break. Ship him out to us for a week.
It’s so hard to see him sick! My minds eye always sees him as the energizer bunny, full of life and happy. Some day Dash will realize that his parents are not just parents but extraordinary parents! Raising an extraordinary boy.
How cute was that?! I’m glad you recorded so much. You can tell Dash has the rhythm in his soul. He seemed to be the only child tapping his toes. He was alert and knew every word. You can tell he is a leader…a take charge kind of guy.
And big holes in his smile make him even more charming.
Fantastic! The streets of Camas are a little safer!
So many sports to play! Dashiell is a well rounded boy! I love how he jumps into everything with joy and enthusiasm.
Makes you want to slow him down, doesn’t it? He’s growing so fast!
Wow! VERY impressive art work! These art shows can’t happen without parent help. Thank you for assisting!
Great variety! But I don’t see The Granny Pod!
YES! We need to invent that! 🙂
I noticed on my sweet Thank You card that Dash had written the note himself phonetically sounding out each word. Learning this method will help him forever. Good job to school and Dash!
Dash is not afraid of the ball, as many kids are. He is a natural with good eye-hand coordination. You are going to be very busy parents!
I’m so glad he is enjoying his uniform! Creating it was a labor of love as I am definitively not a seamstress. But seeing him wearing it makes it all worth it! I love him so much!!!
His little fingers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
These are wonderful. He is a lucky boy to have such wonderful parents.
Wonderful photos! Your lives are full and busy! Dash is amazing. I have to remind myself he is only 5. In all aspects…physically (both in size and skill), emotionally, socially, academically and creatively, Dash is so advanced beyond his years! I am in awe of you and Jeff as parents!
Oh, Maida. You never cease to amaze me! I did not see the knife use coming. LOL. I checked out the up coming camp and it sounds wonderful! What could be better than Fire and Knives!? Dash is going to love it. Will a parent be in attendance? Your part of the country really blends itself nicely for this sort of training.
All winners indeed! Glad to see that Dashiell has his own binoculars. A junior bird watcher being hatched?!
For sure! Soon you will see some artwork of his, depicting blue birds, that shows he has learned to look closely at birds!
WHERE ARE HIS CURLS?????
He wanted a close crop cut!
I miss those gorgeous curls too!
Love these symbolic leaps. Dash is so full of life and expression! He is growing by leaps and bounds!
That was a better artist talk the I gave for my photography exhibit!
Ha! Actually I didn’t have the camera at the ready when he explained some of the pieces to me naturally, without prompting. I think he just repeats to me what his teacher said, but still, it’s in his brain!
As an art teacher of 27 years, teaching thousands of Kindergarten through 6th grade students, I am truly humbled! Dash was able to beautifully articulate his knowledge of the artist and his reasoning behind his execution of his choice of color and contrast. He blew me away. His art work is powerful, showing amazing details and patterns and well thought out composition.
If any of this work was created in my class I would be looking for ways to enter it in outside exhibits to proudly profile the artist, my art program and our school district. Kudos to all who helped him achieve this level of artistry.
I eagerly await more art work!!!
Thank you for your unique perspective! One of the reasons we committed to the school was because we are so impressed with the art program. There is a framed watercolor piece hanging up at school that shows the 1st and 2nd graders portraits of birds, and you’d swear they were done by an adult…!
Even if D doesn’t end up excelling at 2-d art, he will at least have tried his hand at it and had early success!
Now, that’s what I call a vacation! Looks like you had so much fun and everyone looks relaxed! Wonderful pictures and love the music. Makes me remember our trip you when you were 5.
So much fun! Jeff is a lively dancer!!
Oh my goodness. Does that guy have the moves or what. Totally awesome! If he ever needs extra work, he can dye his skin, put on a wig, and earn the big bucks!!!
Before you know it, he will be wanting to write code.
Michael Phelps, watch out!
He is such a cutie! Loved the fast action swimming! He looks comfortable in the water. Tell Dash my favorite part of snorkeling is hearing myself breathing under the water. Sounds like you’re in another world.
Good job, Dash. I’m proud of you!
My son has rhythm! And look at those hips move! He has always been a good dancer. He blew me away in college when he did Swing Dancing. Love seeing him having fun!
Good job, Honey! I bet Dash was all smiles!
Pictures of your beautiful son at sunrise on the beach…it doesn’t get any better than that! Does his endless energy make you feel old? I can see him flying up that “slide”. What an adventurer!
Beautiful, beautiful photos! Loved having the music accompany them. Did Dash take the photos of you and Jeff on the beach? I love seeing those and the ones of all three of you. More great pictures to have as my screensaver! Breathtaking scenery. Thanks for posting all of them!
WOW! Totally awesome. So glad he broke through the barrier, and so fast. He had 2 good teachers too.
I’m exhausted just reading about it, but worth the wonderful memories.
Wonderful pictures! Thank you for sharing!!
Winners indeed! Love them all!
Building a boat or keeping an old MG running. Great father and son bonding!
Our beautiful boy!!❤️❤️
Well, picking a few is impossible. I loved all of them! I managed to narrow selection down to 2, 3, 6, 10, 13 and 18. Hope I’m not being greedy. Beautiful family. Beautiful Mom. Handsome Dad. Gorgeous Son. They all have my heart!
No problem! I will get you prints of them!
Thank you, Maida!!!
They are all terrific! I especially love the one where Jeff has his arms around you and Dash.
Wish I was there to help! I’m so pleased to see the boys creating something with their hands…a boat no less. Nothing better than Father and Son working together. (Unless, of course, it’s Mom and Son cooking together in the kitchen). Love all the safety gear. Would love to see photos of the different stages of construction. Get the wine bottle ready for launch day!
Sure you don’t want to pay for Dash’s college by having him model? He is such a fashion statement. And he is so into all his outfits! He is so beautiful he would sell whatever he models.
His school is so impressive! I love how they incorporate local history and culture. Thanks for sharing in detail his curriculum.
So many great photos. It’s going to take me awhile to download so many favorites. Had to laugh at the one where Dash has a dirty face. It occurred to me I’ve never seen him dirty before. Thank you for posting all of these! Keep them coming!
Tears were rolling down my cheeks watching these videos. So proud of Dash. So proud of his parents. Watching my son teaching his son to accomplish new skills. Priceless. And Dash makes a good fish! He is so good at everything he does.
What a party!!! I can’t wait to see what you do next year!
Such wonderful communication from school! Their curriculum is so polished and webbed together. I love how different areas of study interlock to teach concepts. Our schools once did that but unfortunately lost most of it when study became focused on teaching for the state tests.
I LOVE Dash’s self portrait! Very detailed. In great proportion. Colorful and fun textures. Impressive with the hat brim peaking out from behind his head. And of course the curls…wonderful blond curls!
Holy Moly, talk about a fun and busy schedule. Can I go to school with him?
In light of the turmoil our nation is in today, these innocent patriotic children singing about our flag and the rainbow of our citizens brought me to tears. I am more than concerned about the future for these wonderful children. I am worried. I am ashamed of the lack of humanity exhibited by many stirring hatred. I am embarrassed for our nation. These children are our future. Let’s hope their fighting spirit can do a better job than this generation and get our nation and our Earth healthy.
You did a great job videoing . Dash was front and center. He knew every word and sang with confidence and charm. What a sweetie! I miss him and hope we can arrange a time soon to visit.
Wonderful, gave me the chills, they are so young and sweet. Very stirring. Thank you for sharing.
It doesn’t surprise me that Dash is good at reading or that he loves to read. You and Jeff have passed down your DNA brain cells to Dash and fostered brain growth in every way imaginable…giving him the best learning environment at home, at school and on countless adventures. Kids that are consistently read to will love books. I’m proud of him. I’m proud of his parents.
Please ask Dash if he will read to me when I visit in a couple of weeks. I would love that!
Yes, when reading ability switches to on, it’s amazing. I saw it with you and Amanda, the brain is awesome.
Dear Maida, I don’t know how I missed this post. I appreciate your thoughtful insights and know that Dashiell will grow to be a wonderful and inclusive person. You all make me proud every day!
So glad Dashiell is having fun! I suggest ear plugs!
Wonderful photos! Dash has the face of an angel! You must show his photos to an agency again! Cool photo with double rainbow. Loved all the artwork. I’m so blow away with the quality! It’s so refreshing to see every student took their time and put so much thought into their work.
Nice job! I love Dash kicking back and taking it all in.
Dash has ” The Look.” I’m not talking about just the running gear. I’m talking about the look in his eye, the determination, the confidence and the pride. He will need a journal to document his running accomplishments. So glad you got his finish on video!
Good job to Dad, too.
Racism and discrimination are embarrassments to the human race. Do we dare dream of the day we are judged by the content of our character instead of the color of our skin, our gender, our sexual orientation, our age, our educational level, our disabilities, our economic status and our “beauty”?
It is sad to explain to innocent children the harshness and evils of our world. Especially when they have been brought up without those passed on to them from their parents.
It’s the Dashs, Murphys and Evas of the world that will bring change.
So true! I would love to see each of these kids in public service. I’ve been telling D lately that he’s going to have to become President so he can fix all the damage Trump will do!
Eva wants to be president, too. I would vote for them! Somehow “decent ” people are being kept out of the running. It’s so messed up. Big business, bank and finance institutions, pharmaceutical companies, oil companies are buying their candidates.
Wow, he handles those hills with ease! Can’t believe he can ski like that at only 6 years old. He us in control and having fun. Great job, Dash!!!
Extremely detailed mid-term progress reports in all areas. What a joy to have Dash arrive smiling, positive and eager to learn. Working well with everyone does not surprise me a bit. And helping teach a kindergartner shows his patient kind ways. Encourage him to free build with his legos and see if his problem solving skills improve. Learning that there is not just one “right” way to do something and taking an idea and working with it, maybe even improve that idea is liberating.
This is the progress report parents live for.
Dash is a serious student! Striving for A+ and doing the work to achieve it is admirable. Loved the sleep in note from Mom but I have to point out that Dashiell has better penmanship! LOL
So true! I gave up on my handwriting years ago but I should strive to make it clearer when I write to D! 🙂
Truly a huge improvement in handwriting! I’m curious if the handwriting model has a style name. I noticed some inconsistencies between the practice letters and Jackie’s writing. The “a” and “d” show both straight down stroke (Jackie) and down stroke with tail (practice sheet). All teachers in our school district were to teach and model the D’Neilian handwriting style with the belief the transition to cursive would be easier. It also has a slight slant to it. I like it and had to reteach myself for writing on the chalkboard. But some schools don’t even teach cursive (usually a 3rd grade skill) today and many adults print their entire lives.
Please tell Dash his Thank you note to me was very nicely written!
Certainly a winter to remember! I had no idea the kids were out for 11 days due to snow and ice. So glad Dash had all the warm gear to play in it. Your street is perfect for playing.
My time with all of you over Christmas was precious! Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, delicious food, Dash reading and playing games are all good memories! Going to Mt Hood was an awesome experience…every day skiing at a different ski lodge. Loved watching all of you ski! I’m still in awe of how good Dash is at such an early age. He is such a trooper! No matter how hard the trek, how cold or windy, how tired his legs or body got, he was ready to go!!!
Thank you all for taking such good care of me and showing me such a wonderful beautiful time!
Another amazing teacher – so thoughtful and insightful. I can clearly imagine Dash going through his day from her words. What a wonderful school. I see that your investment in the ninja camps paid off!
P.S. Love to see his ability to lead and collaborate. Emotional intelligence and compassion combined with a powerful intellect – great parenting is key. Wonderful boy and loving, constant mom and dad. P.P.S. Cool playlist. Not sure how you did that!
Terrific! Wind in the Willows is a lifelong favorite of mine. My Dad read it to Hal and me as kids. It stands the test of time.
Wonderful! I fell into the story and want more!
Wonderful skiing. Learning so young is the best. And, he is braver than Grandma!!
Dash is one sharp dresser. I love the red shoes! His drawings of the rainbow trout were excellent…good details, accurate colors and very realistic. I could tell he took his time and really studied all the details of the fish. My mother loved owls. She would really enjoy Dash’s owl. I especially liked his choice of colors and the texture. Good job, Dash!
Hi Beverly! Thanks for your comment.
When the owl leaves the school comes home to roost, we will name it after your mother 🙂
Sounds idyllic! What a wonderful event!
How adorable is that! So cute with those little baby teeth! I’d like to see Dash’s reaction to watching himself. Even he would admit he was an adorable baby.
So cute, gosh they grow up fast!!!
This school does such a wonderful job getting the kids on stage performing and in the classroom presenting. Dash already is comfortable in front of a crowd. That is a valuable skill. As he gets older, I see him in more and more major roles. Of course, he was a sweet and animated cloud!
Dash looks pretty tired. Looks like he needs those gears to help him out. The country is so beautiful there. You do such a fabulous job enjoying it and all life has to offer! Impressive. I’m sure the ice cream was a welcome treat.
What an event! Eggs, quarters, chickens, wine, food, nature, cookies and lots of people! How fun. What good memories.
I love your blog! It really helps when I’m so far away. I get updates on the new adventures, filled with lots of photos and videos. Makes me feel like I’m there to enjoy that moment with you. Thank you, Maida for doing this!
Dash looks like a born baseball player! I can see how the yard got too small. LOL. Looking forward to video of him in action!
Haven’t read the series, yet, but will soon. Looking forward to it!
I’m from the future. Dash has shot up in the last two years but still as adorable! So beautiful!
Thanks for checking out an old post, G’ma!
Great pictures! He looks so grown up in his baseball outfit. Hope the sun come out!
Hi Amanda, thanks for visiting!
He looks so “grown up”. I’m super proud of him in developing his independence! A part of me is sad because he is growing up so fast. Even though he is almost 7, he looks, acts and processes things more like 10. His school is nothing short of magical! A perfect match for Dashiells needs.
Can’t wait to see all of you!
I was thinking the same thing. He is looking more adult and behavior too is more mature!!
I should have sent him the 55 boxes of book I got rid of a couple of years ago.
Ha!
In my thinking I see third grade as the level for reading chapter books. Dash is so far ahead! How wonderful that he enjoys reading and is not afraid to tackle advanced material! That will open countless doors.
It is also nice he is capable of calming himself down, relax and focus on reading.
That song is almost 6 minutes long. Mackenzie is quite impressive and I can see how Dash would be inspired. He has a good start on Hey Jude. Love the pride on his face as he was able to play it. I want to visit when he preforms his solo next spring!
This school and Dash’s accomplishments continue to amaze me!
Thank you, Maida, for taking the time to post all of this for us!
What a kid!
Why am I not surprised!? I would love to have a summer postcard! The orange owl is wonderful!
What a wonderful report. Can’t think of any school that would offer this much. He is going to be a better, all-rounded, person because of it. I am so proud of him, and of his two super parents. Good work !!!
This school is amazing. I can’t help but compare it to the schools I worked at…a district that was rated one of the best in the nation. Hands down the cope and level of learning opportunities is far better. I would place Dash in 3rd grade at the skill level he is already at. It is the perfect marriage of a great school and a great student with an insatiable appetite for knowledge. He also is allowed to develop and use his love for body movement, especially running.
Which Clementine books has he read? The other series has 28 books, with good history sprinkled in (not counting the series on fantasy). I would love to buy some for him birthday if you lead me to which ones.
You once said, “We only have one chance to do this right.” And boy have you! Dash is receiving the best education of any child I have ever met. Backed up by two awesome parents that foster learning with every breath.
Totally awesome!
Another generation of Beatles fans! You are raising Dashiell right!
Seriously, is there anything that boy can’t do??? Piano, guitar and drums! It would be cool to have him playing drums and guitar overlapped as he played piano. Show him on screen playing the other instruments at the talent show. He will blow them away!
What a special treat to be there when Dash turned 7! The party was so much fun and the wave pool was enjoyed by all. I also enjoyed soaking in the hot tub and watching the kids play. I give the parents an A+ for another awesome birthday party. Thanks for letting me be a part of it!
Now, that’s a party! Wonderful idea, obviously enjoyed by all. Our boy is growing up so fast.
Wonderful party! Expect everyone went home happy and tired!
Beautiful – love your writing, love your warmth, love you!
Thank you!
You are a born writer! So beautifully written I could see it and smell the ocean. Such a warm and creative way to say goodbye to 6 and usher in 7. I would want you to tell me a story every night!
Thanks so much!
Thanks for turning me on to Alice Coltrane. Your blog is amazing.
Thank you!
It will be amazing. Love the covered entry with all the rain you get. Good luck on the patience. Hope you’ll take lots of pics.
Exciting plans! The spaces sound perfect for how you live your lives. Maybe room for a drum set in the new space?!
What a wonderful trip! I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed having family all together! A dream come true. Your photos captured the magic . We know Dash plans on another trip “next year”. Thank you for all your hard work planning and making the experience magic for all of us!
Wonderful photos! Looks like you all had a great time and the planning was worth it. I love D’s comment about how he had already met Mickey yesterday!
So fun to relive our trip to Disney World! I love all the pics of the greatest family ever!!!
So sweet! And, what a snappy dresser we have!
So impressive! Mount Kablewy is quite majestic. Love the photo of Dashiell in the sunbeam. Beautiful boy.
Thanks for checking in!
Very nice! Can’t wait to see it!
Can’t wait to see the kitchen and deck/trellis! Know you are looking forward to having it completed.
So impressive! And, how wonderful to have such a thoughtful teacher. You couldn’t have picked a more perfect school for Dashiell! Lucky boy, lucky teacher. Dash would be a fun student.
Good night. They wasted no time!
Right?! We cannot believe our luck, seeing as contractors are famous for not showing up. So far we are delighted and amazed at their speed and courtesy. Wait till you see Day 5 (just posted).
Looking forward to time lapse photos!
Beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for sharing the progress. So impressive. Window placement is very interesting. Hoping weather cooperates for work to continue. Excited to see the new fencing too.
So glad to see updates. Window placements look interesting. Very exciting!
Thanks for checking in, Lori! Looking forward to having a nice big table where we can all sit comfortably to play games and enjoy meals together…hope you can plan a visit once it’s all done!
Hey, you have heat and air upstairs!!! How cool is it to be able to control it with a phone app! Life is such a fun adventure with Dash.
Oh my! I knew this would be a big project, but until you see it happening, WOW! Very exciting with electrical and unexpected wall construction. These will someday be “fond” memories.