Mother's Day 2015

 Mother.  I have been fortunate enough to believe and know what a beautiful word it truly is.  Even now, when I'm all grown up, I still look to my mother for guidance and, when I'm not feeling well, a good dose of empathy!  She always knows just what I need.  (I'm pretty sure that's what every mom's sixth sense really is.)  My mom is soft and kind.  Oftentimes I know she's remarked to me that she wishes she was more outspoken, funny, and direct.  But, you see, that's all part of her charm.  Within her family, she is all of those!  My mom is very good at voicing her opinion and making her wishes known; whether you are in-tune enough to catch on when she is telling you the way something should be is up to you!  (She is from the Midwest, after all!)  We also have so many good memories of her making jokes (whether they are intentional or not--which makes it all the more funny!).  She has taught me so many things, but, above all the rest, nothing is more important than family.  I love her and her continued example of love and service.

Piano Recital

The same weekend as the camp out was also the kids' piano recital!  Both of my big kids did so well.  Emily pushed aside her fears of performing in public and played very well.  Christian, who has no fear, but was still a little nervous, rocked his first recital.  I'm so proud of them!

They both took such grand bows!

 The recital had both piano students and cello students!  (The two dads in the picture below both take cello lessons!  Go dads!)

Emily and Christian with their teacher, Jill Plumb

Father-Son Camp out

This Spring, Cubby and Christian went on their first Father-Son camp out!  They had a great time and it was really fun to hear about their experience from Christian.

 Cubby said the weather was perfect and they actually slept pretty well!  

 The next morning, I'm guessing Christian ate his weight in pancakes.  Yum!

After such a fun time, I know Christian would LOVE to go camping again!

CHEEKS!!

Ohhhh I just love this baby's cheeks!!

TOSHE Concert

Emily was in a special musical club called "TOSHE" in the winter and spring.  One afternoon each week, and often during lunches or recesses, they would learn and practice their music.  In December, there was a dinner for all of the area principals that they performed at with members of the same group from another school.  Then, in May, they all held a performance for all of the families.  They did a lot of rhythm pieces, along with quite a few songs.  Of course, Em did a great job!

Brother-Sister Bond

Christian loves his baby sister.  And she loves him.  Christian loves to make Britta laugh, give her soft head kisses, and read stories to her.  And, while it's always wonderful when any of the children love on each other, I think it's especially sweet when I see Christian showing such tenderness.  It makes me think what a wonderful husband and father he will become one day :-).

Fancy Feet

Christian really enjoys playing soccer.  He plays for his club team, Evolution.  He plays in the backyard with his friends after school and on the weekends.  Still, he really wants to get "faster feet."  So, on his own, he set up cones in the yard and ran a few drills.  I really admire Christian's work ethic.  He works hard and doesn't give up.  Keep it up, Christian!