ballet week

It's ballet week at my house. Three straight days of ballet: ballet stage rehearsal, ballet dress rehearsal, and the actual ballet recital which happens tonight. It's a lot of fun, but also very exhausting. Here are a few shots from the dress rehearsal.


Miss A is a butterfly.


The best face Miss M could eek out for me. She is a bluebird.


Waiting to perform.


The sliperless-ballerina. This was the third time A's class ran their piece. It was actually optional, thus the missing shoes. One of her classmates was even in her pj's for this run-through. They're so cute! Break a leg, girls!

9 years.

Year 2000: got married. Year 2002: baby #1. Year 2004: baby #2. Year 2006: moved cross country. Year 2009: firmly planted in our 30's, we're ambitious, highly motivated, and somewhat driven. There's not a lot of rest in our lives currently. It's a season of busyness, intense child-rearing and productivity. Can the rest of you 30-somethings relate?

I won't lie, marriage is no easy thing. It brings out the best and worst in a person, I'm convinced of that. But, it's so worth it. The sweet times of connectedness are amazing. There's nothing quite like being married to your best friend. And, I can honestly say that I am. (Cue sappy music :)


A little self-portrait to start the night off.


We headed downtown to an awesome area I'd never been to before. Anyone want to do a session downtown with me? I was in love with this green building. (And, my husband, of course :)


Our self-portrait.


David took me to eat at the Ichiban Japanese place. The ambiance was great, and made taking photos quite challenging. But, I pulled out my flash, and I was so proud of what I got.


My plate. The chef's special. I loved every bite!

After dinner, we rushed out to the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center where we saw Jersey Boys. It was a very entertaining production. The music was great. We were a good 30 years younger than the majority of the audience who were probably there to re-live the days of their youth. Nonetheless, it was fun to experience all the older folk really getting into it. Thanks for a fun night, David!

the dellaire family

I had so much fun with the Dellaires. Even though they have 4 kids under age 7, they were the easiest family to work with! Being so relaxed and up for anything, they made my job so easy. And, I just love the glimpse into each child's personality. I really feel like I get to know them, even in the short hour and a half I work with them. Of course, it helps that we're already friends! You guys are great!








I love this shot, but when I showed David, he didn't like it. I showed Miss M, and she loved it too. I wonder if toe/feet shots are a girl thing?






I love the imperfection of this one. To me, it captures the essence of what life with 4 kids must be like. Am I right?





So, I also have to mention that today is our anniversary! 9 years. I'm starting to sound old. If I'd been on top of my own family photos, I'd have taken a photo of David and I yesterday to post today. But, it will have to wait until tonight. He's taking me out to dinner and then to an "artistic, musical show." He won't tell me which one. I'm looking forward to a date tonight! I'll post our anniversary photo and update tomorrow. Happy Anniversary, David! I love you!

the coys: reception

The maid of honor gave a touching toast in which she announced that shortly after Connie and Rich started dating, she knew he was the real deal. After that he became known as the "real mccoy." I loved this, and now think of them as the "McCoys." Here's your last preview, guys. Can't wait to show you the rest!


I loved the idea of adding fruit to the centerpieces!


Such a unique, gorgeous cake topper.



















This little guy loved being the center of attention for most of the party. He's getting an early start on his groovin' skills.