These Little Moments...

One of the events I've most looked forward to over the past two years has been Gracie's dance recital. She spends an hour per week with a small group of girls and an instructor, learning, practicing, and preparing two dances -one tap, one ballet- to perform at the recital. Along the way, there is the exciting discovery of which costume her class will wear, picture day, and an evening of dress rehearsal. All of this leads up to an impressive show put on by the dancers of ExtravaDance and Tumble, Gracie's dance studio.  I love dressing my girl up and making a big deal of the pre-recital preparations. This year, Gracie was anxious. She looked so beautiful, and I knew she would do a wonderful job on stage, but had I given her the option, I'm fairly certain she would have abandoned her spot in front of the crowd and happily sat with her family in the audience.  She could have thrown a fit, refused to dance, cried her way out of performing, but despite her nerves, sh...

My sweet boy turned two years old on Sunday! We've been so busy over the past few weeks, so I'm just now getting a chance to sit, reflect, and write about Ethan at this precious age. Today, while leading the art center during Vacation Bible School at church, I was telling my group of five-year-old kids that my “baby”  just turned two. One little boy spoke up and informed me that Ethan is actually a “toddler” now… On one hand, this little boy is correct; I no longer have a completely helpless baby. On the other hand, however, he’s not yet capable of understanding that no matter how big my babies get, they will always be just that... my babies. Still, it is difficult to believe that two years have passed so quickly. Ethan Reid, Happy 2nd Birthday, my little love.You are an incredibly fun, easy-going little boy.You truly are so sweet and affectionate. I adore when you run over to me, arms reaching up, and say, “Hold you!” I’m so thankful that you still enjoy being r...

This year, Sean and I decided to throw a joint party for our kids at Salem Gymnastics Center. Gracie celebrated her 3rd birthday at this same gym, so we knew it would be a good choice for our group of children, who range widely in age. Gracie turned 5 years old on the 27th of May, and Ethan will turn 2 years old on June 16th! I was so pleased to see that all of our little guests did have lots of fun! It was also enjoyable for the adults, myself included, who were able to participate and watch the kids in action. Gracie has already requested that her 6th birthday party be held here, too! Some of the crew lining up to head out on the mats. It's so hard to believe that my little boy will officially be 2 years old this coming Sunday! The two youngest party guests: Hunter and Ryleigh. Hunter's mom, Danyell, is my best friend from way back in middle school. My almost 1 year old niece (her birthday is June 15th!), Braelynn, had so much fun hanging ou...