Do You Want to Build a Snowman?

Over spring break, we had a big, wet, snowstorm. Karen decided to build the season's first (and most likely, last) snowman. Unfortunately, the snow wasn't optimal snow-man-building snow... but she made it work. It was so fun to watch her creativity, and Creed's willingness to help find straws for the arms.

Karen was so proud of her cute little snowman!


And here is 30 seconds later, when our stinky little dog ran out and snatched the carrot off the poor innocent snowman's face!  AND... I failed to get a picture of 30 seconds after that, when Stinkus knocked the rest of the snowman to the ground.  Sorry Karen. Some dogs just love carrots. And knocking things over.

Kailani's Birthday

Kailani REALLY wanted an ipod for her birthday this year. Ryan and I have an agreement with our children that (as a one time deal) if they earn half... we will pay the other half of their 1st big electronic purchase. It is a pretty sweet setup--for everyone involved. Because they had to work for it, they feel a sense of responsibility for the item.  They take care of it, and know it didn't come without work.  Ryan and I, as a result of paying for half, are able to set up a few guidelines of our own (like they cant take it to school, etc.). Kailani had been saving since Christmas.  We told her that it was probably too expensive for the birthday budget, but we would wait and see what happened. The week before her birthday, the ipods and ipads went on a great sale (which is quite rare). As a result, Kailani was able to get an ipad mini! She was so excited!

Kailani wanted her cake to say "The Bee's Knees" as an homage to Camerons cake this past birthday. It was pretty funny to see the boys reaction when they saw what was written on Kailani's cake.  I believe this is a saying that might live in DeGraw family infamy for years to come-- much to the "delight" of the cake decorators at Broulim's.

Because I was so sick for Kailani's birthday, Grandma Nelson brought a cake by. It made Kailani SO HAPPY-- not only to have 2 cakes, but to have a special one made with love by Grandma.

I adore this girl! I love that she does her homework when she gets home. I love that I catch her dancing and singing to Pandora's Disney station. I love that she is so confident in trying new things, and in her talents and abilities. I love that she sees the good in everyone, and doesn't talk bad about others. She is funny, and emotional, and goal-oriented. She loves to run errands, and is always the first to see a need and fill it. She likes spending time with family. She is smart, and loves learning. She is wonderful!

Gem State Classic/National Show Dance Championships

I LOVE watching my boys dance, and Gem State is one of my favorites! On Friday, the boys competed with their teams, then on Saturday, they competed individually. Overall, there were around 1,100 dancers competing!

I was really sick the entire week, and worried that I would miss out on the competition. Luckily, I felt well enough to go (although I probably should have stayed home in bed). I was so sick, that my Mother showed up on my doorstep the Monday before to save the week. I needed her! It was the happiest surprise ever. As a result, she was able to be here for the team routines. I loved having her here, the children loved having her here. In hind-sight, I don't know how I would have made it through the week without her. (Thank you, Mother!)

Kyle performing in "Spiderman": (He is dressed as a cop)

2nd Place!

Kyle and his partner Lizzy

Cameron in "Enter Sandman":

2nd Place

Cameron in "Mambo Italiano":

Kyle in "Almost There":

3rd Place!

Kyle with his partner, Sara.

Kyle and 2 of his very best friends-- Jessica and Grace.

I was so very proud of my boys! They did amazing. I really cant describe the pride I feel when I watch them dance. It is so fun to watch them succeed. 

Here are a couple pictures from Saturdays competition:

Kyle (#349) being sized up by the judges. The female judge used  to be a dancer on "Dancing with the Stars"

It was this fancy kick move that got KB and this partner into the finals for this dance!

My girls doing a little dancing of their own.

One of my favorite pictures of the day... I suggest you zoom in on Karen for the full viewing experience. Such a funny girl!

Cameron thinks that this year is his last year doing ballroom. I understand that he wants to try new things... even though it makes me sad to see him leave something that he is so good at. I think he is going to miss it more than he realizes. Knowing this would probably be the last time we ever see him compete in ballroom made it bittersweet. 

Cameron dancing with great form!