What Money Can't Buy

Piano lessons began for Spencer and Grace about 18 months ago. My mom offered to pay for lessons if they wanted them, and I said they did (whether they did or not!). They actually both wanted to play, but when they realized it would, like anything worth doing, be hard work, they had second thoughts. Believe me, I've had second thoughts, too, after lots of frustrating and contentious practice sessions with them, but I am persevering! I really want my kids to get to a point where they are comfortable accompanying at church or wherever they may be. It's a skill that they can use their whole lives.

Not to be a shirker, I have been practicing as well, now that I've had a refresher course through the kids' lessons to bolster the 2 or so years of piano lessons I took as a child. I'm currently working my way through the simplified hymns.

Today was Spencer's and Grace's first piano recital. They were both nervous and excited to perform. The teacher chose a Wild West theme, so all the music was Western. It was a fun family night and we were so proud of how well they did! I asked my mom after the performance if that was worth what she was paying for lessons, and she agreed with me that it was priceless! Enjoy the videos below. YEEEHAWW!

New Family Photos

Halloween...Just in Time for Thanksgiving

Fire Chief Justin
The Reluctant Ninja. Spencer didn't like his mask and refused to wear it, but, mean mom that I am, (hey, we spent 30 bucks on the stupid costume that he begged for!) forced him to wear it for a few pictures. That's right, I'll create the memories around here! Luckily, his scowl was covered by the mask.
Madame Grace, the Gypsy

Halloween was a lot of fun, despite a huge downpour that opened up on us as soon as the festivities began. We started the night at a potluck dinner in a neighbor's garage then headed out with umbrellas to get some treats.

Spencer had planned to go out with two friends this year. We decided he was old enough to be unchaperoned as long as they stayed in our neighborhood and took a cell phone.

Darrel and I trade off years handing out candy and going around trick-or-treating with the kids. This year was my turn to take the kids out. After a couple of streets, Darrel drove by and dropped Spencer off to finish trick-or-treating with us. One of his friends never did bother to go out and the other decided one street was enough and had gone home. What is wrong with kids these days??

Justin got tired and went back home a little early, but I was surprised at how long he lasted. By the end of the night, Grace had so many treats her bag was full as well as her pockets and mine. Spencer had already dropped some of his haul at home after his first round of trick-or-treating. Another successful Halloween!

What's your guess as to who still has candy left?