Wrapping up 2018!

Here we are, the last day of 2018! It. Has. Been. A. Crazy. Year. It has had some of the best, happiest times of my life all the way to some of the most sad. It has been full of laughter, tears, frustration, challenges, triumphs, losses, gains, beginnings, and endings. It has taken me to each extreme of emotion on the scale, and most of the ones in between. It has made me more introspective, more aware, and I hope more compassionate. It has taught me new things about myself, and reminded me of things I had forgotten. As bumpy as the ride has been, I wouldn't change a thing.

Tonight is another change...Cooper and I will be ringing in the new year without Amelia. She is 14 and 3/4, so she will be going to the New Year's Eve bash at the junior high, along with every youth in the area from 14-18 years old. She will have a fabulous time, she will make wonderful memories, and she will always remember her first New Year's Eve dance. But Coop and I are gonna miss her.

Christmas 2018!

Here are a few pictures from our Call Christmas party, and Christmas morning. It was different and hard to not have my dad there this year, but I know he's in a much better place and will always be watching out for us. I'm so grateful for these wonderful kids of mine. They are the best! Merry Christmas!

December almost in one post!

I'm going to just cram almost all of December into one post, so brace yourself. First up, the Nutcracker! Both Amelia and Cooper were in it this year. Amelia ended up being in 3 dances, plus a solo because she was understudying for an older girl who hurt her ankle. I may be biased, but Amelia did an amazing job! I have never seen her dance better! She kept up with those juniors and seniors like a pro! Here are a few pictures of the performance and rehearsals:

Amelia in her maid costume:

Amelia in her Snowflake costume ( I didn't get her in the Arabian, but trust me, she looked cute):

Cooper in his costume. He was the "book boy" this year, and did a fabulous job!

THESE kids! Love them so much!

After the Nutcracker, we were thrown into Christmas concerts! Up first was Cooper's choir:

Cooper is getting really good with his guitar playing, so he was able to show off his skill during the concert:

Right after Cooper's concert, Amelia had her orchestra concert:

I also want to take this time to point out Cooper has now passed Amelia in high by 1/2 in. He was on his tiptoes in this picture, and she had on heels. It's not quite that big of difference yet. Here's a picture of the morning Amelia found out her little brother had surpassed her in height:

Next post: Christmas!