December 13

Sarah is busy playing with some of her birthday toys so I thought I'd write a quick post.

I still can't believe she's one already. I marvel at how she changes each day and is interested in every new object or sight. She has her strong opinions about food and not liking to sit still for her diaper change, but otherwise, she's a pretty agreeable child.

I love that she's patting us on the back when giving hugs and that she rubs her forehead back and forth when giving "eskimo kisses" (I know...probably not politically correct, right?). I also love that she just wants to turn the pages of the books instead of letting us read what's on the page. I love how she pats her hand on the chair to signal Sammy (our dog) to come up and sit by us as we cuddle and read. I love how she waves to everyone she sees and seems to be a "people person". I love how peaceful she looks as she sleeps in her crib. I love her giggle. Basically, I love everything about her...even when the days are long and I haven't had a break. I've also realized how I respect working moms who are balancing so many balls in the air at once. Although, I've also realized how important it is for stay-at-home moms to have something in their life that's just their own. I'm working on that. I'm lucky to have a couple of play groups, a music class, and library group to get us out of the house around other people.

Jason has kept busy getting ready for upcoming concerts. He has the Sacred Music Concert this Sunday and his regular band concert on Monday night. He's playing with the Manhattan Transfer vocal jazz group tonight at Potowotomi Casino. He continues to play in the All Star Superband big band on Thursday night's at Long Wong's in Milwaukee. Those performing opportunities keep him involved with his passion for playing his horn. His biggest playing highlight this year was playing with Josh Groban. He played a concert here in Milwaukee and one in Green Bay. He said Josh Groban is the "real deal", a true musician, and nice guy. Jason's also attending the Midwest Clinic in Chicago this year. He had to miss it last year since Sarah was a newborn. I have to say I'm a bit jealous since I love that convention, as well. It's always good to go and refuel with some top-notch performances and get ideas from fellow directors.

I'm putting my name into the Elmbrook District to teach some private lessons after the new year. It won't hurt to have some extra cash and it will keep my "foot in the door", so to speak.

Despite the snowstorm, we had a fun 1st birthday celebration for Sarah. Meghan, Bob, and Sean couldn't make it due to the weather, but they came up this past weekend for an afternoon. It was great to see them. Sean is really starting to show more personality by jabbering and making some fun facial expression. You could tell he was trying to talk to Sarah. It was the first time they really took interest in one another. It will be so much fun to watch them grow up together.

Kim and Cleo came by while we were hanging out with the Gillete side of the family last Saturday. They're busy making plans for their Jamaican wedding on May 31st. We haven't decided for sure whether or not Sarah is coming along. I did pick up a passport application for her today while I was at the post office. :)

I better go start my Christmas cards. That's enough rambling for now.