Piano Men

We are now the proud owners of a FREE Baldwin piano! While out shopping garage sales last weekend, we spied a sign in someone's yard that said "Free Piano Inside." Mike ran inside and checked it out, and after a couple of hours, a uHaul van, and three generous friends helping out, we settled this beauty into our office. It's not in horrible condition and it has a really pretty sound. Mike is overjoyed and loves to play it. Amelia is starting piano lessons next week, and hopefully Colin will too in the next couple of years. I'm having lovely visions of gathering around the piano to sing Christmas carols each year!

Colin's First Day

Today was Colin's first day of preschool. He was so much more confident and comfortable in the classroom this year. I was so proud! The moms go to school with the kids on the first day, so tomorrow is his first day alone, and I'm not worried about him at all! I know I'll be crying all the way home. He's in a class of all boys, and there are 12 of them. He's getting to be such a big boy, and a genuine sweetheart.

For Ruby

Ruby, the family dog that my parents bought right after I went away to college, passed away this week. She was a sweet, loyal, and good natured pet, and we'll miss her.

With Amelia, just under one year old.

Last Christmas at Mom and Dad's cabin

On Amelia's 2nd birthday

Ballet

Amelia's first day of a new ballet class started yesterday. The first grade class wears blue, so that meant a new leotard. She is beginning preparations for a performance of the Nutcracker at the Christmastime. She loves ballet SO much, and we're really happy with her studio. Here she is with her two male dance partners.

Amelia's First Day of First Grade

Today was Amelia's first day of school. The summer just rushed by, and I don't think I was emotionally prepared to send her off to a full day of school! She looked nervous when I dropped her off, and I managed to hold my annual first-day-of-school-tears until I got to the car. Her day went great, of course. She loved going to music and gym for the first time, and seemed intrigued by the lunchroom. She's excited to go back tomorrow, and we'll see if I can make it through the drop this time.

Looking like a very mature and sophisticated first grader.

Colin and Jack were excited for Amelia (until they saw me bawling, I did some fast talking afterward). Colin is holding a pine cone named "coney" that he's been kicking around for a couple of months. His first day of school isn't for a couple of weeks, thankfully!