Our Talented Girls

We are so proud of our girls! In this case, our two oldest. They participated in a choir solo and ensemble contest a couple of weeks ago. Makala sang a solo, just one-on-one with a judge and the pianist (and Kathleen got to watch too). That would scare me to death! Anyway, not only did she get a 1st division rating, which is the best, she also got an outstanding soloist, which is the best of the best! She also sang in an ensemble which is a small group of girls and they also got an outstanding. So she earned two medals for the 1st divisions and two trophies for the outstanding ratings! Even Kathleen had to admit after her solo that she is REALLY good. Also, Kathleen participated in a duet with a friend of hers, they also got 1st division and outstanding ensemble. Plus, another ensemble with several girls, and they got a 1st division. We are really proud of their talent and willingness to participate in things like this that test their abilities. Great job, girls! (I'll have to post pictures when they get their trophies)

SHE'S HERE!!!

Well, she has finally arrived, after much anticipation, (as well as trepidation). Samantha Beth arrived at 11:33 on Wednesday, May 13, 2009, weighing in at 7lbs. 5 oz. and 19 inches long. She is absolutely perfect. The whole family is head-over-heels in love with her. Her arrival was much easier than I had even dared to hope, thank goodness! And, since it's been 9 1/2 years since the last time, so this is almost like the first time all over again, you all get to put up with LOTS of baby pictures! And thank you all so much for all the prayers and good wishes!

Easter

Well, Better late than never. We only took a few pictures of Easter this year. This was the night before, when the grandkids were here. We had to have an "Easter Hunt" for them. Braiden said he was really good at those. Ellie had a good time looking for eggs, especially when she figured out there was something inside!

Baby's First Haircut

Yesterday, we took Sadie to Petsmart for her first ever grooming. She wasn't too happy when she got home, but she looks so cute! No more Grinch Feet! Everyone in the family was amazed at how different she looks, and we LOVE the bows. Of course, they didn't last very long. As you can tell, she is part of the family and we love her dearly.

Bill "Superfoot" Wallace

The boys has a great opportunity to go to a special Karate Seminar with Bill "Superfoot" Wallace. I know, I hadn't heard of him either. He is a World Champion in karate several times over in different events. He has been in several movies, including some with Jackie Chan, Chuck Norris, and John Belushi. He did a seminar for Red Tiger Karate students on April 1, so Tony and I took the boys. They had a great time. He was so funny! He was so good with the kids, they loved it. Then he autographed some pictures for them and took pictures. It was a really fun evening.

Makala's Birthday

Makala's Birthday was March 26, but got spread out over 4 days. Not intentionally, it just kind of worked out that way. She didn't complain! She got to open presents from us on Thursday, her birthday, then Aunt Robin came down on Friday and brought her another gift from Grandma Sherril, who couldn't come because she was so sick. Then Granny and Grandpa came on Saturday and brought a gift, and went to dinner with us at Golden Corral, (Makala's choice), then we were so full from dinner that we didn't do cake and ice cream until Sunday! Hope she didn't mind having a 4 day birthday!

Pinewood Derby

Tuesday night was our Cub Scout Pack's Pinewood Derby. The boys and Tony were very excited. The boys did great. Joshua built a batmobile, and Joseph built a dragster. Joshua got the award for best superhero car and Joseph got the award for best use of unique material because he added the extra pipes and engine. They had a great time, and are already planning for next year!

Makala's Surprise

Makala was surprised last night when some of the Beehives and their leader, Sis. Erekson, showed up to kidnap her for a surprise birthday party and welcome to Young Women. She was very excited and can't wait to turn 12 this thursday and be an official Beehive.

A Big Day!

Last Thursay, the 12th, was a big day for all of the kids. First, Kathleen went to UIL choir competition with the 8th grade Women's Select Choir from her school and they received a first division for their stage performance, the highest you can earn, and a first in their school's history. They were so excited. Then Makala was chosen for both the Honor Band and Choir for 6th grade. They participated in a concert for 5th grade roundup, which is where all the 5th graders and their parents were invited to learn about the Junior High and all the activities that are available. She did a great job, she is currently second chair in the French Horn section in band, and is looking forward to next year. Then, to finish off the day, the boys had karate class and were promoted to yellow belt. The boys are pictured with their instructor, Ms. Kyle, who is also a twin. They really like her. We are so proud of all of them!

Our Valentine's Day

These are the roses that Tony had sent to my office on the Thursday before Valentine's Day. Aren't they beautiful? He only had them sent to my office to make the other girls jealous. And it worked! He is so sweet sometimes. The other things are what we got for the kids for Valentine's Day. They were excited. I'm kind of surprised Tony would want to buy me anything right now, I've been so hormonal lately! Everyone around here walks on eggshells most of the time. Sorry guys! I love you! Only 3 more months to go! And then I won't be the only one crying around here all the time!