4th Grade Opera

What an amazing production. Every year the 4th graders at Ramsey write and perform their own opera. This year Alex participated. The story was about a peacemaker in Argentina named Juan Perez Esquivel. The kids wrote lyrics about standing up for your beliefs, even when they not popular and solving problems with words instead of violence. A visiting artist from Argentina helped the kids learn about Esquival, and several local organizations, including the Minnesota orchestra, helped the kids create the opera. Ramsey is in danger of losing its arts curriculum with budget cuts in Minneapolis, so the performance was especially emotional this year. What a shame it would be if Gracie didn't get to experience the 4th grade opera.

Gracie and Andre Graduate From Addy's Daycare

A momentous event! Gracie and Andre became big kids and officially graduated from Addy's Daycare. We have been taking Gracie to Addy's house since she was 16 months old, almost 4 years! What a big girl. Congratulations Gracie and Andre!

Learning to Ride Bikes

Both Alex and Gracie learned to ride a bicycle in one day. Mom, Rob, and I sat out on the front lawn (or ran beside a bicycle) all day. Gracie was so determined that she was on the saddle for 6 hours straight! She got a pretty severe case of saddle sore on her bum because of it. After lots of hard work, both kids are now on two wheels! Andre joined in with some biking too.

The Zoo With Mom

Mom came to town and we took the kids to the zoo. Tim, Miky, and Andre joined us too!

Gracie Sparring

Gracie's sparring gear arrived today after a long long wait. She's so excited to learn how to spar. I'm just hoping she can see through the headgear and move with all those pads on her little body!

Violin Concert - International Market Square

Alex and his fellow 4th and 5th graders held their annual concert at the International Market Square. The concert was lovely, with highlights being the singing and playing of "We Shall Overcome" and "Oye Como Va". Noname was in town for the show and Grandma Lynn came as well!

INTERNATIONAL MARKET SQUARE - A WONDERFUL VENUE

THE VIRTUOSO HEADS TO THE STAGE

THE 4TH AND 5TH GRADEERS

ALEX PLAYING

CONCENTRATING ON THE NOTES

AFTER THE PERFORMANCE

ALEX AND HIS TEACHER, MR. MANTRAS

Ethan's Bowling Birthday

Bowling fun for Ethan's 12th birthday! Tip: Always agree to bowl with the little kids - those ricochet shots off of the bumpers make for some spectacular strikes.