a preschool Thanksgiving

Here we are for the annual Thanksgiving feast at Pre-school.  In the older class this year, Emilee got to go as an Indian.  She enjoyed the feast and even requested to wear that special "emilee" necklace.  She is such a dolly.

And here is the cute prayer that they do before they're snack each day.  

Duets

Ethan has been kind enough to let me practice a Christmas Duet with him.  He is so funny when I tried to record it.  Trying so hard to make me laugh and miss my fingering.  Of course he had no problem at all even with his antics. . .

And here is Ethan and Aidan's first ever Violin/Piano duet.  Hopefully the first of many.  Good job to you both, guys!

AAAAAAaaaaaaaa. . . it's 50's Day!

Today was the 50th day of school.  To celebrate, there was a sock hop and a celebration of all things 50's!  Chandler would not believe me about what would be "50's style."  So, we called Gram and Gramp (the experts about 50's childrens wear) this morning and they gave him the run down (which was EXACTLY what I told him!).  I think he was most excited about the "jelly roll" hair.  He had a great day!

the "informance"

Thursday we had Ethan's first band "informance."  They call it that because they're still in the very beginning stages of learning their instruments.  It was great!  Sorry no videos.  :(  

 I tried to get a cute picture of Ethan, but only managed to get a picture of this cute boy who looks like he's in middle school.  Is that my son?

Great job Ethan!  We are really enjoying your music!

the Elementary Orchestra

This past Wednesday, Aidan had his first violin performance.  He has been taking violin with the beginning strings program through the school.  He doesn't hate it, but he doesn't exactly love it either.  But, I am pleased to say that he seemed to be having a pretty good time playing with the group.  He showed all the tell tale signs of  secretly enjoying himself.  So, I'm glad we get him up and out the door.

It was SO crowded.  Here are the best pictures we got.

 Can you see his little eyes peeking out there?

Here is a video.  We still can't load video's from our regular camera so this will have to do for now. . .  We were REALLY impressed with how wonderful they all sounded playing together.

Well done Aidan!  Looking forward to more performances this Spring!

Cousins Day

This past Monday we had a cousins day.  We ate pizza, played in the basement, and had a good time.  Emilee and Blake decided they are best buddies, and Chandler and Carolyn had a great time too.  Thanks for the visit cuzzies!

Emilee 2

Look who Emilee brought home from pre-school!  Why who is that little girl?

She has blonde curly hair, and looped up piggy tails!  Ribbons in her hair and a cute little dress!

 Well it's Emilee 2!  She was made at preschool!  I thought it was so cute how her teachers figured out how to curl the hair and braid it up.  So fun!  Welcome home Emilee 2!

Remembering Grandpa Tolman

Gordon's Grandpa (maternal) Tolman passed away this month.  Yesterday we had the opportunity to head up to Olympia for his memorial service and remember what a wonderful man he was.  It was so nice to see much of the family together and let the kids meet their second cousins (again!).  We get together so infrequently that it's always like meeting new friends.  But always fun!  Ethan played the piano for an hour straight for the mingling time afterwards and played like a pro.  I was so impressed with his performance yesterday and I know that Grandma Tolman really appreciated the service.  We love you Grandpa!

October Wrap Up

Halloween happened!  Heidi helped pass out candy in her bug costume.

 Alice charmed many on her way to Wonderland.

 Heidi made a few messes. . .

 Chandler donated a big bag of candy to servicemen.  Thank you hungry soldiers!

 And Ethan took this picture the other morning from his bedroom.  On a clear morning, he has the best view in the house.  Isn't that cloud over the lake beautiful?

Welcome November!  We're ready for all of your adventures. . .