I'll try and get one of Jamie off the videos, but they had the 5th and 6th grades doing 3 part harmony - awesome! Ethan had a very small sax part, but he was the echo in the back of the auditorium, so I didn't get a picture.
Here's Ethan with his friends Tyler, clarinet, and Kody, fellow alto sax.
The concert was amazing!!!!!! I'm so happy with what the conductors are teaching! The band was doing better dynamics and definitely watching her better! And, the orchestra was fantastic and the choir sounded great - he's got them on multiple harmonies! Anyways, the band, of course, was the best (yes, Ethan is standing over my shoulder) and I need to tell their teachers how great a job they are doing. Thanks!!!
She has loved playing the flute, but is just really frustrated in this band and has decided to change to something else for a while. It's been a struggle with the conductor - his focus is Marching Band right now because it's a new school and that's what is "seen". They've done really well, so his focus has paid off, but......... He's a percussion major, but he really doesn't know how to lead a symphonic band. Erin has been continually frustrated and relieved when guest conductors come in because they know what they're doing! He also fosters competition instead of the "team" to get the kids to work harder, I guess. That is not a great environment, especially for Erin. Lots of kids have been frustrated and he keeps losing members of the band. I wish they'd hire someone else for symphonic! I'm so glad she's played as long as she has and she will still always have that in her life. I wish I could help the conductor understand, but I don't think I can, and I don't want it to backfire on Ethan who wants to do Jazz Band next year (which is awesome!). Thanks for playing, Erin. I love that you have music in your life! And.........back to piano, my dear :) 
Ethan about 1/2 way through the race
Coming into the finish line! He finished #9!!!!!!!!! And, it was a hard course this time with hills, but he did awesome! It's really fun to watch! Great job, Ethan! (And, yes, he knows his shorts are too short - he's trying to get different ones. The last ones were HUGE, so we'll get it, hopefully!)
OH - and if you happen to go - take a listen to the narration at the Isaiah (adobe looking house) - That's my brother, Rick! We were listening to it, and Lafe turned to me and said - That's your brother! So, I listened for a minute, and we were positive it was him. So, of course, I texted him to find out. I remember vaguely my mom mentioning it once, but we haven't been able to stop and listen before (remember the stroller thing?). It was fun to discover it ourselves, though!
Decorating the tree
We also have a tradition of eating a popcorn tin while we decorate the tree - do you know how much smaller and more expensive they are now??? Kelcie and Talin enjoying this tradition!
Really cute and so fun to watch them be so excited and enjoy this together!!!
Family by the shovels - it was REALLY bright!
Golden shovels - cool!
Family by the artist's rendition.
The best picture I could get of the actual groundbreaking
I just got back from the Veteran's Day assembly at my kids' school, and just left SO grateful for all those that serve our country! I was blessed to have a wonderful Dad who served in the Air Force and military life was all I knew -and LOVED! My parents instilled in me a deep appreciation and patriotism for our country and I can't help tearing up EVERY time I say the pledge, sing the national anthem, or any other patriotic song! And, I LOVE that our school emphasizes it so much - those kids sang the song for every branch of the military today! And, they sing a patriotic song every morning - I LOVE that they know all those songs!!! Being the youngest, I don't remember firsthand having my Dad gone for training or serving in the war, but I'm really grateful that he did, and how strong he was to his values while he served. And, I'm grateful for my Mom who did have to endure firsthand while my dad was gone so much. BUT, I do remember, as a little girl, seeing my Dad in his uniform and just how good he looked! And, how respected he was when I was with him on the base - I loved that my Dad lived in a way that so many people loved and respected him -not just for his ranking. THANKS, DAD! And, THANKS to all veterans!!! Happy Veteran's Day tomorrow - don't forget to put out your FLAG!!!!!!!
The girls with Ricky, aka Maria. She was truly incredible!!!!!
The girls with their director, Mary Jo
This play was a GREAT experience!!! The girls never complained and work VERY hard. I was amazed (and teary) as I watched how comforable my Jamie was on stage and listened to her self-taught, beautiful voice. I was also amazed (and teary) as I watched my little 6 yr. old come in on cue, know where she should be at all times, and sing several solos! And, very happy to be Autumn's aunt - she did so wonderful, too! And, so happy with how the girls conducted themselves throughout the whole thing - responsible, polite, kind, appreciative, etc..... We are so proud of you!!! I'll post some show-photos soon -my CD was missing them. Thank-you, Copperstar!
Laura - Snow princess, Ethan - scary red-haired dude
Jamie and Kelcie - missed it because of the play, so I took a picture of them in their "Pre-show" costumes - Shooting Stars. Notice the chocolate on Kelcie's face!
The crew - Lafe was a green-haired, scary dude.
The kids with their pumpkins - this was the first year they got to do their own pumpkins and I think they loved it! I got a great deal on them through Bountiful Baskets!
They look even better in the dark!
Ethan - 8th grade 
Make a wish!!! (x2)
Blowing out the candles
So, we have this tradition that the kids can open their presents first thing in the morning on their birthday. This is this morning with her presents from us and G&G Starr.
She asked for something science and something with planets, so we found this cool Star Theater and we can't wait to try it! So happy for my "little-Laura" to be nine - 
Laura was Student of the Month for September! The virtue for September was "respect". She is very respectful towards her teachers, parents, and other leaders. She is also repectful of others - their time, feelings, and things. Congratulations, Laura!
