November...

At the beginning of November or end of October (I can't remember)  Abby received an award for the quarter from her teacher for "Outstanding Effort."  Abby is always trying her best especially at school and she has such a great attitude about it.  Her teacher just loves her personality and how confident Abby is.  When Abby came home from school she asked, "Mom, what does effort even mean?"

Sammie and Abby participated in a great Veterans Day celebration at their school to honor Veterans.  It was such a sweet and patriotic experience.  Abby was excited because she was chosen to sing in a smaller group and she also tried out for a speaking part and she did so well on both, that her teacher asked her to choose if she wanted to sing or say a speaking part.  She chose singing. I got to go and watch the dress rehearsal and take some photos.
Sammie's school choir also performed and they did so well.  I can tell that choir is helping her to become a better singer.  I can't wait to hear them at their Christmas Concert soon.

Grandma Jackie came to visit for a few days.  Joey has been getting very busy with his "We the People Team."  A few weeks ago I got to have Jackie here to keep me company and help out while Joey was so busy.  Mostly we just shopped and ate out.  I felt like I was on vacation.  We had a wonderful time.  She even took all 3 girls out shopping one afternoon by herself.  Even I rarely do that.  I am so glad that I have such a fun mother-in-law, who also happens to be a champion shopper.

Soccer came to an end.  Sammie was sad to say goodbye to the season, but we are happy about a little more free time.  Our evenings aren't quite so busy.  Joey did a great job coaching Sammie's team and Abby of course made new buddies on her team.  They both did a great job and Sammie especially grew this year.   She doesn't want to do any other sport now, just soccer.

My Great Aunt Carol came to visit her grand-daughter who lives in Bakersfield.  Since we all love antique stores we met up to go out one morning.  It was fun to be together and talk about family.  It made me miss my grandma a little as I was hanging out with her sister, but I felt close to her while we visited.  I love family and the bonds that we share.