Songbird!

Just before Spring Break, A's class at school went on a 3-day field trip - A didn't get to go. And she wasn't too disappointed - because she got to go on a 5-day trip to Charlotte, NC! Just her and Mom - flying, staying in a hotel, eating out - just the two of us for 5 days! How can you compare that to a little field trip at school! Well, she definitely felt like she got the better trip. Here's A on her first memorable flight - the last flight was when she was 3 and for some reason she doesn't remember it . . . ? :-)

It was an amazing trip for both Mom and A! A got to sing in the OAKE National Children's Choir and they were incredible! (OAKE -Organization of American Kodaly Educators - is a music teacher organization and they had their national convention in NC this year.) The rehearsals were led by Lynell Joy Jenkins and she was outstanding. Mom took notes during all her rehearsals and picked up some real gems and inspiration from her. Mom had tears many times during rehearsals as well as the concert. Seeing the kids really learn the music and connect to the conductor was inspiring to say the least. Ms. Jenkins had those kids following a mere flick of her hand and they were SO good. The purest voices and sweetest sounds - something we will never forget. (Here's a link to some clips from their concert. http://www.imageonemedia.com/oake/2006/preview.htm A was in the Children's Choir. ) A can't wait to audition and go to Chicago next year for the convention. S has decided she wants to go next year, too. S will be able to audition for the Children's Choir as a 4th grader, but A will have to audition for the Youth Choir since she'll be in Middle School. (gulp!)

In the choir picture, A is on the front row just at the end of the piano - the little short one. Mom sat in the balcony so she'd be able to see her over the piano and Ms. Jenkins. We had the largest number of singers from our district - 22 in both the children's and youth choirs. We represented more than 10% of the children's choir - a pretty impressive showing considering it's a National choir. We've got some great music teachers here!

Soccer Sweetheart

S. has begun her new soccer season. (White jersey on the right.) The girls added a few new team members and a few new rules this season. Things are starting to get a little more competitive! S. is progressing into that new challenge. She's not very aggressive - unless one of her siblings is involved, that is! The girls are sticking with more consistent positions this year and S. is helping with defense. It's fun to watch her get into her position more and more each game! She's a great player and really enjoys her practices and games!