Big Changes for Our Little Girl

Just like that, my little girl started growing up. She's writing her name (first and last!) on everything and copying letters and words out of every book she can find. She also insisted for several weeks that she wanted a hair cut. I admit - it's super cute, even if I cut it myself. It also makes her look way too grown up!

Dayna's Elementary Memories

This is the project I spent most of my time working on while enjoying my weekend away. Hard to believe how fast these years went (and how many pictures we took!)

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All By Myself

Those three words never meant a lot to me. I grew up needing people around, with a lot of noise. But somehow with age and parenting, the rare quiet moments are now cherished. My sweet husband delivered on the rest of my Mother's Day gift by sending me away for a weekend - by myself - to a hotel in Omaha. I promptly lost myself in knitting, scrapbooking, binge watching Netflix and enjoying the hot tub. I can't recommend enough the opportunity to just be alone to recharge. Thanks so much, Dan! You're the best!

Watching Annie Dance

Annie's dance studio is closed to visitors, but once a year, parents can come watch a dance class. Unfortunately, I'm always teaching piano...but her Daddy is wonderful and got some great pictures. This is Annie's second year in ballet and first in tap. I can't wait for the recital!

First Orchestra Concert

November started with more wonderful music coming from Dayna. She culminated her first orchestral experience with a wonderful concert. Her dear private instructor Molly drove from Lincoln to Omaha to witness this event, as well as grandparents coming from Norfolk. Needless to say, we're all incredibly proud of her. But topping the whole event was the discovery that Dayna was named one of the section leaders by the conductor. Well done, Dayna!

Halloween

An owl.

A cheerleader.

Some pumpkins.

And a tacky tourist finding local "celebrities" and taking selfies.

Happy Halloween!

MKMEA - Des Moines

This year, I had the privilege of working with five young women as they prepared for the Midwest Kodaly Music Educator's Association Honor Choir in Des Moines. We spent several Saturdays learning their songs before an intense weekend of rehearsals culminating in what was probably the best children's choir concert I've ever heard. Dan was even able to play alto recorder on one of the pieces. Our Saturday rehearsals may have also included tea parties, pillow fights and other silliness.