Way to Go, Xander!

Xander's band teacher, Mrs. Phillips, told Xander he needed to try out for a competition sponsored by the Fairfax County Band Directors Association.  He practiced hard and was very excited.  When he went in to  play, he had a memory lapse and had to start over again.  He was really bummed and was sure he didn't place at all.  However, the judges praised him up and down about how well he sounded and his tone and technic.  They also were amazed at how well he recovered from his memory lapse.

He ended up getting second place!  They were that impressed!  He was over the moon and it was an amazing experience for him!

Go Navy and Go me!

While I was at the Naval Academy, we went to the bookstore and Emily insisted I buy the Navy gear that they wear to work out in!  I also got the kids a t-shirt.  Savannah and I decided to go on a run one day together and we wore our Navy gear! 

Love this little one who is learning how to hula hoop and ride her scooter!

The War of 1812

In my quest to immerse myself into history, I found out that there was an exhibit of the War of 1812 at the Naval Academy!  That meant I could go and visit one of my most favorite people in the world, Emily Buzzard, and see the exhibit!  We had a great time and it was so cool to see the pictures come to life from the historical fiction I had read!

This is one of the fiddle heads from the ships.  It was so beautiful!

The hall leading up to the room where the exhibit was.  The Naval Academy is so stunning!

John Paul Jones is buried there!  It was so amazing to see that!

And, of course, lunch with Emily and spending some time with her.  She is an amazing young woman who I love and adore!  I am so grateful she is in my life!!  Love you, Emily!