The Nutcracker

Emily's dance studio did a wonderful production of The Nutcracker!  We loved watching Emily perform in the soldier dance.  She spent many extra hours rehearsing last week and it was worth it! 

 

I snuck back stage before the performance to get some pictures of her in her costume.  Later, they put cute pink dots on their cheeks.

Pictures, pictures, and more pictures
My dad, my sister Betsy, and Michael's mom were all there for the performance.  Everyone wanted their picture taken with our beautiful star!

Great job, Emily!  You were wonderful!!!

A Fun Week with Papa

Papa was here for over a week, and we had a great time!  Here are some of the highlights:

 

 

Christmas piano recital--all five kids!

 

Here they are with their teacher.  They did a great job!

  

 

One of our favorite traditions--decorating Christmas cookies!

 

All ready for church

 
Nathaniel was in a car accident recently.  He is OK, but our 2005 Honda Pilot wasn't.  I was very lucky to find this "twin."  The model is the same--the only difference is the color. 

 

Look at that happy teenager!  No more driving Mom's minivan to school!  Woo hoo!

 

Out to lunch after a busy day of shopping--Joe's Farm Grill

 

Emily's band concert.  She plays the flute and is first chair in her class.

 

 

Work brunch and gift exchange--so fun!

This past week was especially busy for us.  Emily had so many rehearsals for her Nutcracker performance (more on that next time).  Add in shopping, wrapping, Cub Scouts, etc., and it was a super busy week.  Hopefully we didn't wear Papa out too badly!  We miss you already, Dad!