Hope's Big Moment

Recently, as in just a few days ago, Hope was introduced to a song entitled "Feel This Moment."  After she heard it only once, Hope began singing along to the chorus (well, belting it out really).  If you've heard this song, then you know that's the part where Christina Aguilera sings "Whoa, I just wanna feel this moment.  Whoa, I just wanna feel this moment."  There's something pretty cute about a 4 year old singing that line!  (...Said her mother!)

Where am I going with this?  Well, Thursday night was a big moment for Hope, one that began months ago...last September in fact.  That was when Hope began taking ballet classes every Friday afternoon, something she excitedly participated in each week.  She really found something she loves!  And Thursday night was Hope's dance recital... her moment!

As one of the moms who was helping with Hope's class, I had the privilege of escorting the girls backstage.  As we waiting in the hallway, I said to the girls, "This is it!  Are you excited?" to which my daughter Hope answered, "This is the moment!" 

I was so proud of Hope as I watched her before and during the performance.  For, while other girls were nervous (which is totally normal and to be expected!), Hope was simply excited!  She loved every moment of the experience, which is just how she lives every day of her life.  If you know Hope personally, then you know this to be true, and it is that spirit in her that I really admire.

Check out this video of the performance:

(It's a bit blurry, but still too cute!)

happiness looks like...

last day of preschool!

Back in September, my girl Hope had a very important milestone--her first day of school!  Eight months have passed and Hope has grown so very much.  A couple of weeks ago, for the last day of preschool, Hope and her classmates hosted their families for some play time, a special program, refreshments, and even swimming!  Big brother Geoffrey even took the day off from school to be present (not that sixth graders really have to have their arms twisted to do such a thing!), so it was extra special.

Hope has already been asking about going to school.  She was not at all happy about preschool being done for the summer, and I know she will be so excited when September arrives and it is time to go back to school!