The amazing adventures of a fourth-grader named Claire...

I may be repeating myself with this story but.....

4th grade is a big deal to me.  It is the first year that I really

remember as a kid.  It was a huge transition year for me.

I started public school after being in a private, Lutheran school.

I moved to a new town, new neighborhood, new friends, new life.

It was really the beginning of everything for me.

And, I loved it!  I loved those middle school years.

I was happy, making friends, and gliding through life well.

I was also growing up.  I was 'leaving the nest' a bit.

I was struggling with identity and life changes.

It was the beginning of everything for me.

So, needless to say, having my firstborn in 4th grade is a big deal!

So far, so good.

She is happy.  She is doing well.  She is a good friend.

She is active.  She is involved.  She is happy.

And, most important, she rocks at Four-Square!

Here are a couple of Claire's most recent adventures in 4th grade ~

Class field trip to the Art Center and Sculpture Park.

Blessed to be there, cursed to be freezing my tail off!

Huddle up for warmth kids!

Claire and her good friend.  I am very happy with her "fab friends"!

Claire is a good friend and is able to maintain friendships with

the girls at school, but also our close family friends and

swim team friends.  She's lucky to be surrounded by good people ~

Claire and her friend Katie tried out the

Show Choir Camp for 4th -5th graders.

It melted our hearts, and gave us a giggle, to watch

them perform on stage. 

I said a little prayer that our girls always hangout

with the "show choir geeks"!!

Best rendition of Thriller I've ever seen.



The 'dead faced' zombie was perfect for Claire's stage presence ~

I know that I can not guarantee Claire's success in school

or life.  I know that I can not shelter her from mean girls,

stupid boys, or tough times. 

I do know that I can pray for God to watch over her and

give her peace, strength and faith.

I do know that I can be present in her life, active in her school,

involved in her extra-curricular activities.

I do know that I can continue to stay close to the

loving village, the family and friends that are so close to us,

as we parent and pray together for our children.

Love you Claire Bear!

Chopsticks and tears

I can't really think of anything that brings me more joy than

watching my girls do something they enjoy and are proud of.

Watching them conquer their fears and nerves, and then

beam with pride always brings tears to my eyes.

I don't care if they do it perfect, or even well.  All I care

about is that they try, even when they're scared.

This year's first piano recital was extra special.

1. It was so cool to see how "calm and cool" Claire was

before her performance.  I remember last year, and she

did not look so calm then!

2. It was Ella's first piano recital.  She was nervous, but so

excited!  She sat through the first half, wringing her hands,

but smiling and leaning into me every now and then.

When it was her turn, she popped right up, walked to the

grand piano, and beautifully played "Papa Hayden's Orchestra"!

Way to go Ella!!  I think I cried with pride longer than she actually played!

Claire and Diane

Ella and Diane

All three of my girls and my piano teacher!