Finishing strong...

These last few weeks of school have been difficult....the boys were just done!!  So, I wasn't sure if this sentiment would be reflected in their grades, attitude & behavior at school.  However, their awards indicated otherwise.  Trevin:  Super Reader Award & Integrity Award for his 1st grade class.  So very proud of him.  Ben:  5th grade graduation certificate & Presidential Academic Award.  Summer has begun & we have very big smiles!

Mother's Day 2017

My heart is full & thankful.  I love the boys' thoughtfulness & reminders that I'm loved....despite my many flaws.  It was pretty special they served me dinner at Cortezes along with 10 other mothers.  The kids did a fabulous job (while being supervised by the Dads).  Sunday dinner with Taylors & my parents made for a special day as well.  There was a time in my life when I put aside thoughts of having my own children.  I've realized there are unexpected turns & corners in this journey.  I'm so thankful for these two boys that call me Mom.

 

Studio Recital - April

Both boys performed violin pieces at Alexis' studio recital this Spring. 

 

Ben:  Suzuki Violin Book 3 - Humoresque (my favorite!!)

Trevin:  Suzuki Violin Book 1  - Minuet 3

 

Other tidbits regarding their violin progress:

Trevin moved up to 1/2 size violin the week after this recital.  He is skipping the last piece (for now) in Book 1 & is starting  Book 2! 

 

Ben is nearly ready for a full size violin.  We found a fantastic handmade Amati violin for him thru a local violin shop.  The sound is bright & clear.  Over time Alexis says the sound will have even more depth & richness.  Her expertise & very good ear for such things is invaluable.  (confession:  I play on it every chance I get).  He is currently working on the last piece in Book 3. 

Spring Break Part 3: Santa Fe

We quickly realized we didn't have enough time to see everything in Santa Fe & the surrounding areas, but we certainly got a taste of the history and culture in this northern NM spot.  We saw 600 year old dwellings, the oldest church in N America, the historic town square, and the brothers!!  Our 1 hour with the friends there on Wednesday night was pretty special too.

Authentic New Mexico food - it was wonderful!!

typical sighting - red chiles

Bandelier National Monument - climbing ladders to check out old Indian dwellings. 

Russell & Ben took the ladders 140+ feet high to the highest dwelling.  They seemed like little specks from where Trevin & I were watching.   The view was fantastic from there - overlooking the valley.  I had hoped to take a turn, but there wasn't time.  Trevin wasn't interested in climbing that high, and I understood.  Next time I'll be the first one up the ladder!