06/02/2026
Last Friday was their last day of second grade.
I don’t post as much about them as I used to, I feel like they’re getting older and want them to have privacy about certain things if they want it. But I started out posting about them and their growth to give other families in the NICU some hope, and the big milestones still feel SO important.
Remember when their doctor said “nobody ever started kindergarten in the NICU”? He was right about that, and now those tiny babies are finishing second grade, the tallest in their class, getting awards for citizenship and academics, reading so well and doing math. They’re kind and funny and navigating a lot I wish they didn’t have to, and I’m so so proud of them.
1 Ask these two to hug or kiss in a photo and they melt into each other every time (It was pajama day, so of course they took that opportunity to wear animal onesies.)
2 Piper is such a bright light, I’m in awe.
3 Romy has so much depth, I’m in awe (also, does not love photos/videos so it was sweet of her to take this for me. I missed our “first day” photo, so I’m proud of letting that go and not forcing it and also proud of making this one happen!)
4 Piper’s wink! And that reading level…they have both learned and grown SO much this year.
5 Walking up the stairs to their last day of second grade…I had a good cry as I pulled away.
6 I want to say that I’m convinced that I literally prayed this teacher into existence for these girls, but I can’t even take that credit. He is the kind of teacher ANY parent would pray for their kids to have, but the kind you are surprised actually exists in this world. Before this school year started, I prayed the girls would have the best teacher for them. He far exceeded my expectations - he SEES them, cares, taught them so much while making them laugh, knows what they need and how to manage it along with the needs of the entire class, goes above and beyond for the school and the community. He’s the kind of teacher that made my girls wish summer wasn’t here, and the one they will remember forever. We will miss him SO much next year - the peace I was able to feel each day meant the world. (Cont. in comments)