Spring Twin City Twisters Show

Gabriella had her gymnastics show last weekend. We enjoyed watching her on the bars, beams, and floor work. She has gotten really strong and has been moved up again to the next level. So proud of our little gymnast!

 

gab gymnasticsgab trophy

Meet Dora!

As in Dora Winifred Read, aka D.W., from the show Arthur. Not to be confused with the Spanish-speaking Dora. Gabriella wants to be sure that’s clear.

IMG_4449

In honor of our first family pet, we made a goldfish painting project. The kiddos just love dot painters, so we used them to make our aquarium accessories, and then added a few goldfish.

goldfish paint

Gabriella has taken quite well to her responsibilities as a pet owner. She feeds Dora regularly without my prodding, and she reminds me when we need to clean her bowl. We were a little worried at first that Dora might not like her new home. She did not eat for a whole week. But then we moved her into Gabriella’s room, turned the light off, and she chowed! She apparently likes her new surroundings better, and Gabriella loves having her friend in her room. As it turns out, it’s also a great bargaining chip for Mom & Dad! “If you don’t listen, Dora can go back in the kitchen….”

2nd Dance Competition – a Success!

The Jewels did a fabulous job once again – they really enjoy getting up there on the stage and showing the judges what they can do. Took 1st place again for both dances (being the only team in their age group again) – and this time they received a special “Too Cute” award from the judges. And they were definitely Too Cute! See for yourself!

I'm Cute

I'm cute 7 

I'm cute 13

I'm cute 15

I'm cute 38

Our New Swingset

Kirk never wanted a swingset. He didn’t want it taking up space in our yard, he said there’s no reason for it when we have a park so close… I had a really hard time talking him into getting the small one we had. Two swings and a tiny deck with a slide. So he really surprised me when a month ago he announced, “I think we should get a bigger swingset.” Really?! Well, then, let’s start shopping!

Kirk and I make decisions a little differently. He sees something he likes and says, “Let’s buy it.” Me – I have to look at all the different options, taking note of all the ones we like, make lists weighing out the pros and cons, and eventually make a decision that I probably question once or twice after it is all said and done.

Well, here you have it. Our new swingset. Decision made in about 3 days. We compromised on our decision-making ways, and we are very happy with the one we chose.

We went from this… IMG_4366

 

 

 

 

…to this! IMG_4401

 

 

 

 

 

And yes, my handy husband put it together - with the help of a handy father-in-law (thanks Papa Dit), two handy friends (thanks Troy and Brian), and a wife who reads directions meticulously.

The best part is the kids are having a blast!

IMG_4376

IMG_4379

IMG_4390