Anna is cruising through fifth-grade and having a wonderful year.  She continues to work hard dancing every week & is currently preparing to dance in the ballet Don Quixote in late April. 

Anna recently shared a science experiment with us that she’d done in school.  She asked her teacher to email me the directions and then she walked us through it at home.  So cool!

In February, Anna had Renaissance Day at school; the culmination of the Renaissance unit they’d been studying.  The day included a feast, learning about the printing press, & making her own printing.  Because they studied art of the Renaissance period and perspective in regard to The Last Supper painting, the students learned how to draw perspective that day as well.  

One of Anna’s pieces of artwork was chosen to be displayed at the library in February!  Area schools display artwork at our many library branches regularly, and our school was highlighted last month.  Always fun to see your creation in a public place!  

Anna, you are a WILD & crazy part of our family and we love you!

James had the opportunity last fall, along with the other 8th-grade band members, to try out for the Pikes Peak Middle School Honor Band.  Students received the audition requirements, practicing on their own time, then the band directors helped them tape their audition and send it in.  Sixteen students from James’s band were selected to participate.  They received the five pieces of music in December and have been working on their music since.  Then, under the direction of a guest conductor, they attended four rehearsals with all of the other area students who were selected.  The event concluded with a performance in early February for parents and band directors.  

Honor Band was such a learning experience for James.  Making the decision to audition, following through with learning the music, and participating in all of the rehearsals.  Much like his own band class he attends daily, but this time, with other kids from around the city who are passionate about their instrument and ready to learn more.  James was amazed at how quickly the band mastered five pieces of music.  When students come prepared and enjoy what they’re doing, the director can move so much more quickly and the kids can progress so much faster.  The performance was incredible for a middle school band and we’re so proud of James and his efforts. 

Out with the other band families after the concert.

Anna & Kenny attended the Dad/Daughter Dance again this year.  In my post last year, I mentioned that the woman organizing it was stepping down and that would be the last year.  Thankfully, someone new has picked it up and is hosting it now.  They’ve changed the name to A Daughter’s Journey, and it was held at the Broadmoor this year.  The evening still included a wonderful meal, speaker, and dance.  This year Kenny purchased a wrist corsage for Anna and she loved that.  They had a great time!