Ryan's First Orchestra Concert

A couple weeks ago, we really headed to the middle school to enjoy Ryan's debut with the 6th grade orchestra. In September, they were just beginners, and have worked so hard, with the guidance of great teachers, and to make lovely music together. For those who couldn't join us, enjoy these video clips!

Look at that handsome cellist.

Video 1

Video 2

Video 3

Bravo!

 It was so much fun to not only see Ryan hitting this milestone, but to see a lot of my former 5th grade students performing with the orchestra or band. I'm so proud of them all!

I'm imagining it's a pretty cool experience for Burke to have Ryan in one of his orchestras. I hope Ryan continues to love playing the cello. He seems to have a knack for it. His note reading is improving, though he prefers his ear to the work of reading notes. 

Evan also made some music this season. The fourth graders learn to play the recorder and their teacher has them go caroling around the school. It's very festive and adorable. [I miss teaching recorders.]

Hope you have safe, happy, merry, musical Christmas!

Happy New [Decade] Year too!

Evan's 10th Birthday!

Evan's birthday festivities are often wrapped up in Thanksgiving festivities, and this year was no different. To kick off the 3 days of celebration, we all gathered at my Mom & Dad's for a delicious Thanksgiving meal. 

Ryan took a moment to play Rock, Paper, Scissors with Caleb [6].

On Friday, JCCE and BBRE went to see Frozen II, which we all agreed was a pretty good movie, and exceeded expectations. Emily [4] dressed for the occasion.

That night, Carol and Josh joined us, and all 13 of us went out for dinner.

On Saturday 11/30, we celebrated Evan's 10th Birthday with a U of M football viewing party. The boys both wrote a set of fan expectations, so we could enjoy the game and view in peace. Everyone followed the rules, for the most part... We focused on the positive. U of M offense was great. The defense just couldn't hold the stronger Ohio offense. Good game, team! 

opening presents in between quarters

Evan requested Burke make this particular cake. Yum!

Then the boy cousins [Josh, Evan, Caleb, and Ryan] went outside for some Nerf fun [which I don't love, but have resisted as long as I reasonably could].

Cousins!

Evan with gift liter

Lucky boy! Lots of fun, thoughtful presents.

DECEMBER 1, 2019

EVAN IS OFFICIALLY DOUBLE DIGITS!    

opening a second round of gifts on his actual birthday                                                   

Ryan wanted to get him heavier weights. Evan has recently made an exercise plan. He wrote it down, and taped it to his dresser. At 10, he has a definite interest in fitness and being active.

Thank you to everyone near and far who remembered Evan with gifts, cards, and messages.

He wanted to learn to operate the lighter and light his own candles. At 10, he's independent, almost to a fault.

Make a wish, baby!

At 10, Evan MUST connect with people the majority of the time. He loves to visit with his friends and family. He likes to talk, entertain, and play. He is a sensitive kiddo who is working on expanding his empathetic nature to think about others' feelings, not just his own. 

He also loves screens, games, sports, and math. Though he may not admit it, he is very curious about girls and the "drama" that his classmates are involved in. He is also a great reader and piano player. He is a complex, loving, bright, sporty little man. 

No longer little, he'll always be our baby boy, sweet face. We love him so much, and hope and pray for happy, content life journey for him. Happy, happy 10th birthday to you, Little E! 💙