Piano

 Piano students...little Maddie is also the teacher's daughter. Emilee babysits for her, such a cute little family.

The infamous "Miss Love"

At the end of May, Emilee had her last piano recital with Kinsey Love. I'm so sad to have to try and find another teacher. "Miss Love" was pretty great!  Emilee has really done well this last year and I'm hoping that will continue. I'm so proud of all she has done and can't wait to see what comes next. Love you Emilee :)

Preschool Graduation

I can't believe Jake is going to Kindergarten...not because he doesn't seem old enough or because it doesn't feel like it's time...but because I DON"T feel old enough. It will be different to have my baby off to school and riding the bus, but I know he is ready and I'm excited for him.

 Graduation time at the park...

Best buddies....Daxton and Jake

 Jake's preschool teacher was Lindsay Wright, who also happens to be a member of our ward. I had heard many good things about her so I'm glad we got Jake in. He grew so much and has totally surpassed my expectations, both socially and intellectually. Lindsay was amazing...she literally let them try everything. She has got to be the most patient and creative person I know. Jake loved it and made lots of good friends, one of which is Daxton Hall....these two are so much alike it's a little scary. They have so much fun together...silly boys!

Gracie's End of School program

Sadly, the new school year starts in 2 weeks and I'm just now posting this. It's a little indication of how busy our summer has been and how completely "too - tired" I've been to keep up.  My goal is to do better in the summers....

 Gracie was up in the very back...she kept peeking out to make sure I could see her.

 Jump roping on stage...she loves it and is very good.

Seasons song...she's a little "ham"

Gracie had a little end of school program in which they sang, did a little skit, danced and even jump roped. It was quite the variety show and it's amazing what these kids remember. It was pretty evident how much fun they were having....and it doesn't hurt to have one of the best teachers EVER!... Mrs. Swainston...we loved her and Gracie did so well this year in her class. She LOVES school and her teachers never have any complaints, only praise.

Haydn's 12th Birthday / Ordination

This birthday marks an important step in Haydn's life. I'm so grateful for who he is and wanting to do what's right. It was pretty great to be there when he received the Priesthood, and since that day I have seen little changes in his attitude and countenance.

His birthday was simple....cake and gifts. And at his request, The Avengers movie with the boys.

 Homemade b-day cake

 We're a goofy bunch around here...

 Crazy kids

 He needed a little help this time

 Lots of clothes and jerseys ....

 New "kicks"

 B-day boy with Mom and Dad

 He looks so handsome and grown up.

 G&G Hillesheim

 Grandpa Mortimer

The boys...Riley had already changed out of his church clothes, hence Delon's jacket and Riley's "flasher" look.

G&G Hillesheim and Grandpa Mortimer (grandma wasn't feeling well) came for Haydn's ordination. It was a great day for everyone. I'm glad Haydn was able to have his grandparents there and I'm grateful for the experience and for the Priesthood in our lives and hope that as Haydn grows older he will remember what a wonderful gift and duty it is. We love you Haydn :)

May Dance Review

 Gracie getting ready back stage

 After the show...she did so good!

 Backstage...

 Great job Emilee :)

With cousins Ramsi and Raegan

May is the busiest time of year for dance. Since both Emilee and Gracie did dance this year, it was a little crazy at times, but the girls really enjoyed it...and Emilee made the performance group! Thanks to G&G Hillesheim and Diana's family who came and joined us that evening. Emilee had worked extra hard this year and it really paid off. Gracie has loved dance ever since I can remember...it showed on stage. I love to watch my kids do the things they really enjoy. Until next year...which is sounding very familiar to an episode of Dance Mom's...wish me luck.

Loves to read...

They enter the gym running around all the students to celebrate.

Receiving their awards

Gracie and her classmates...love her.

Gracie has always been pretty competitive...especially in school. She has done a lot of reading to be a part of the AR reading points assembly. She finally made it, even after having to postpone because of strep throat.  I am really proud of her.

Easter

I love Easter colors...

Getting ready to hide the eggs

The Egg hunters.....

Out searching by the barn

Hmmm...

Looks like we'll be having hard boiled eggs for the next few days :)

Easter Day was beautiful...we enjoyed amazing weather, touching lessons in church confirming our love for the Savior, and a somewhat unsuccessful egg hunt.  Emilee and Haydn hid some of the eggs so well, we are still missing three. Good thing they're all outside....I am so grateful for my family and for the resurrection of my Savior. I know how lucky I am to have the gospel in my life, a healthy family, and a beautiful place to live.