Birthday Party

Shelly will be turning 12 on the 16th and we planned a fun little party with a few of her middle school friends. We went to see the Alvin and the Chipmunks movie and then to Red Robin for dinner afterward. 

The girls had a fun time together and I will post more photos when we are back near my computer, but for now here are some of the images from her celebration. 

Random Ramblings

Lily finished her first season as a JV volleyball player. She really maintained a great attitude throughout the season. Proud of her.

We are eager to see what the next phase of high school will be like now that volleyball is over. Lily's involved with the student council and that keeps her busy.

Shelly did some cheering at one of the high schools on Friday night. They got into some rain but she said it was so much fun. She even mentioned looking up at the lights while it was raining and said how pretty the rain was in the lights. She's got such a good outlook on life. So many kids would see a chilly rainy night as a complete bummer, but not this girl.

I'm looking forward to some cooler temperatures. Hoping they'll head our way soon.

We enjoyed our favorite Starbucks drinks today since the weather was chilly and damp.

John and I went to see Gone Girl for our anniversary. Wow, that movie was amazing, disturbing, and complicated. It may not have been the best anniversary movie---not exactly a romantic comedy!







We celebrated 16 years of marriage on Friday. I am lucky to have such a funny and loving husband. He's a terrific father in addition to being a great hubby. 

Adjustments

Ok, not being creative, clever, or as crafty these days. Just spending most of our time adjusting to a new schedule and a new work load for Lily. She is taking several honors courses and it has really been tough getting it all done with late nights at volleyball. Think we may be improving with all of it, but that means several hours spent working on assignments on the weekends. Lily was also selected as the freshman class president and is starting to have weekly meetings for that position. This is all new to us, so we are working on making it better for everyone.

Shelly is really shining in 5th grade. She has transitioned well into her classes and is loving the new status of Top Dog. She began her cheerleading games this weekend and will start chorus at school next Monday. So, all is going well for her and she has been a real trooper at the late evening volleyball games for her sister.

The month of September has always been a tricky one for me. I love a schedule and a fresh start, but I don't love the uncertainty that comes with all of that. I am a lover of the logistics. I like to know how things are going to run and how to navigate it all. The not knowing part makes me stressed and uneasy. I'm working on that aspect of me and my life. 

One way I am improving in that area is listening to Joel Osteen's podcasts. They just make me feel better and I really enjoy how he presents his message. Thought I'd share that if anyone else might need a little lift this time of year.

On a different note, Lily and I went with her friend and her mom to see The Giver last night. Both girls had read the book and wanted to see the movie. I really enjoyed it. Unlike some of the other movies that are in this genre, The Giver wasn't overly violent. It had a great message and a unique ending.

The Help

I went with some friends to see this movie last night and loved it. What an amazing and powerful story. I cried and cried and cried. I also applauded at the end of the film. Don't think I've ever done that before. So, so good! Go see it.

A Good Movie

We saw Despicable Me this afternoon. So cute. And I couldn't believe it, but I shed a tear at the end. Another bonus about the movie---a great soundtrack.