Pool Rafting

     We'll do anything for adventure around here, even if that means creating our own whitewater rapids for rafting. Of course, sometimes the results aren't as glorious as the initial inspiration. Behold Ana and Rebecca, paddles in hand, braving all things wet and wild.

Watch out, Ana - waterfall ahead!

Boy does that water look inviting about now.

Mother's Day

     After church this morning, Mom and we five older girls went to see the Metropolitan Ballet give an exciting performance of Amadeus (the story of the life of Mozart). We came home to a supper of salmon, steak, strawberry salad, asparagus and potatoes!

Ana eyes the salmon.

 Snuggle time while supper settles.

Down time.

 We played a round of Mexican Train and then started on dessert:
a special coconut chocolate cake for Mom (made by Nikkia)...

 ...and vanilla ice cream with toppings for the rest of us.

We sang whilst we played more Mexican Train, and Mom won the three-round
game! (Rounds are lengthy when you're playing with as many people as we were).

Reading cards from her children.

Happy Mother's Day to a wonderful mother and friend!
We love you so, SO much! :)

Festival Eve

     For Jessimine through Rebecca, months of musical preparation came to a head last Saturday morning at one of the National Federation of Music Clubs' Junior Music Festivals. On Friday night, after supper and bathing, the younger children ran through their pieces in anticipatory performance. Here's a sampling from Ana. This was her sixth take (she's a perfectionist after Jonathan's own heart), and as you will see, it pleased her very much. Her pleasure augmented with the judge's evaluation the next morning: the annually-sought-after "superior" mark was achieved! Enjoy the music, and stay tuned for more posts coming soon!