Birthday present...

Our trampoline net has been broken for a while now, and it's been hanging off.  Madison has been dying for a new trampoline, so that's what she chose for her birthday present instead of a party!  We set it up a little earlier than her actual birthday, just because it was a gorgeous day and we weren't sure when we'd have another chance.  She is one excited girl, and can't wait to do her back handsprings now that there's a net to make her feel a little safer!  She just loves gymnastics!

It's 2 ft. bigger than our old one, so she's really excited!

Can't believe my baby is almost 12 years old...only one more year until she's a teenager.  Yikes!

Band...

Tonight, we had a parent information night about band next year, and they played a couple of songs for us.  Sitting there watching her, hearing information about incoming 7th graders, realizing she's going into middle school...it got me a little teary-eyed.  She's growing up so fast.  She's really loving band though and definitely wants to be in it next year!  I'm glad she has a passion for it, and she's really doing a great job.  I'm so proud of her.  But middle school?  Two more years of school until high school?  It can't be!

Sweetheart luncheon...

Last year, our sweetheart luncheon for the 65+ group at church went over so well, so we decided to do it again!  I think it's a great opportunity for the kids to serve, and everyone has such a great time.  From what we've heard, it is very appreciated and meaningful to some of these sweet elderly people!

We focus a lot on Ms. Wanda...she just loves these kids and it's really and truly her ministry.  She sends birthday cards, Valentine's, etc., and always makes a point to show them love.  So, she is really touched when it's returned to her!

It's a lot of work, but I love how we've started this tradition.  I want to teach my kids to serve others, and this is a perfect opportunity to have a servant heart!

Party time!

Nathan's Valentine's party was today, and he was so excited!

His teacher wanted to keep it very simple, so we only had snack and exchanging Valentine's.  But they still had a good time...especially since there was sugar!

I made a little heart book with pictures of the kids and quotes about why they love her.  They all really enjoyed getting to see the finished product, and were very excited to give it to her!

It seems like once we have Valentine's parties, the end of the year comes at a much faster rate!  I can't believe we only have two more years of elementary...wow.  I just love this age!

Sole Hope...

Our next LTC service challenge was today - a shoe cutting party!  You order a kit from Sole Hope, receive the patterns and instructions, collect denim jeans, and start cutting!  We just send the cut jean patterns with some  money along with them, and the people in Africa sew together and put the soles on from old tires. These shoes are to help them avoid horrible bugs called jiggers that can cause many health problems.  It was something completely different and Madison had fun too!  It's neat to be able to make such a difference by something so small.