Emma's First Dance Recital

I don't know when I have ever felt as proud as I did the night of Emma's first dance recital.  She did such an awesome job.  As I watched her on stage, I could just feel my heart swell with pride.  My eyes teared up, and I literally thought my chest would explode.

Emma took to the stage and performed like a champ.  During her first routine, Fairy Ballet, her class stole the show.  They waved and blew kisses until they were carried off stage by the teachers.  Later, they performed their tap routine, If You're Happy and You Know It."  They had the entire audience clapping and singing along with them.  It was so cute!

Between numbers, we hung out backstage and took in all the chaos around us.  There were probably a couple hundred people backstage... dancers, moms, teachers, helpers, etc... and probably twice that many balloons.  Each dressing table was decorated perfectly, with signs, flowers, balloons, and gifts.  And, then you had the necessities mixed in, too... make-up, hairspray, curling irons, costumes, tights (2 colors), shoes, and all the other accessories that we needed.  Then, on top of having all of those things, each table also had snacks, drinks, and entertainment... colors, paper, stickers, puzzles, etc. It was complete and utter chaos.  Fun chaos, though.

I really think that I enjoyed it as much as, or maybe more than, Emma.  It brought me back to my dancing days, but gave me a new perspective.  A mom's perspective.  I never thought about all of the planning and prepping my mom always had to do for me!

Emma and I were both exhausted once we were done, but I think we are both looking forward to the next one!

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from recital.  Hope you enjoy!

  

 

Five Question Friday

I admit it.  I'm a terrible blogger.  I have so many things to share, yet I don't.  My kids are achieving all sorts of "firsts," and I haven't shared any of them.  I like to think I am living in the moment with them, and that's why I'm not blogging as much.  Yeah, I'll keep telling myself that. 

Honestly, though, when I get them to bed, I'm usually so tired that I can't even think about blogging.  And, trying to blog during the day? With them awake?  Not happening.  They like to press the buttons on my computer, cry, scream for me to do something for them, color on the walls, flood the bathroom... I could go on for days!

But anyway, I enjoy participating in Five Question Friday.  And, it is usually Friday again before I realize I haven't blogged since the last one.  I'm enjoying my crazy, tiring days with my kids, and really, that's all that matters.  

Happy Friday!

1. Did you do anything special for your kids on the last day of school? Or did you parents do anything special for you?

  
No, not this year.  Emma is only three, so maybe she won't remember that I was a slacker.  I can't remember my parents ever doing anything for us to celebrate the last day of school.  So, I haven't given much thought to a special something to do for my kids.  Maybe I'll work on that!

2. What's your favorite summer tradition with your children?

We haven't established anything yet.  I would love to make it a tradition to go to some great beach every summer.  
3. What was your favorite thing to do during the summer as a kid?

I loved to swim, play outside, and spend the night with friends.  
4. How old were you when you were married? Were you a Bridezilla?

I was 26 when I got married.  I don't think I was a Bridezilla, for the most part... Ask my sister, though.  She was my maid of honor and she'll tell you the truth.  

I do remember becoming Bridezilla when my florist brought me an ugly, pageant type bouquet.  I asked him if he thought I was Miss America.  Then, he informed me that my guys'  boutonnieres were roses.  The only request I had when meeting with him was, and I quote, "I don't care what you do as long as you do NOT bring a rose in this church."

I am pretty sure I should still be asking forgiveness for the tongue lashing I gave him.  In the church.  

5. What is your favorite girl name? (I'm needing suggestions.)  


Of course, Emma Cate is my favorite.  But, if we are talking about names that aren't my children's, Annie Michael is my favorite girl name.  Followed by Clara Michael.  And, I still haven't ruled out the possibility of using them some day.  SOME DAY.  But not today.  And, NO, there is nothing I need to tell anyone.  Promise!



Have a great weekend!

Five Question Friday

Just thought I would play along with 5QF today.  It's been a while since I have!

1. What were you scared of as a kid?

I can't really remember being afraid of anything other than spiders.  And, I'm still pretty scared of them.  Oh, and scary movies.  Definitely scared of those as a child.  And, I'm pretty sure that my fear has grown as an adult.  Even the previews give me nightmares!

2. Do you sleep well in a hotel?

Sometimes, I actually do.  Just not if my kiddos are with me.  They don't usually sleep well, which means I don't either.  


3. If you could meet any celebrity, dead or alive, who and why?

The list goes on and on... But, to pick just one, I would have to say Marilyn Monroe.  I think she led such a fascinating, yet sad life.  I would love to hear about her life from her perspective.


4. It's a hot summer day. Do you prefer to be pool side or at the beach?

Definitely by the beach!  I love the sand and sun and salty air.  A day at the beach is good for the soul.  


5. What is your favorite summer dish?

Roasted veggies and pasta with Parmesan.  It's a recipe I discovered in an Everyday Food magazine.  It's a favorite at my house!

Happy Friday!