Dance like no one is watching

McKenzie's First Recital

One of our first adventures this summer was McKenzie's first ballet and tap recital. Seven months, two routines, one tap, one ballet, and a lot of hard work went into preparing for this event. I know, I know, she's not even four, but there is something about a toddler in a tutu that gets me every time. During those seven months Tony and I only got small glimpses of a first position here, and a combo there, so I was anxious to see how well she listened and learned from her dance teacher. Hours were spent in the studio behind closed doors, while her dance teacher taught five little girls the steps to two of the cutest routines I've ever seen. 

After combing the two classes the group had one dress rehearsal a few days before the big event. Seeing her on a lit stage, with makeup, dressed in her sparkly tutu made it feel real. The rehearsal went...well let's just say I'm glad it was a rehearsal. There were a few times she took one too many turns, almost flew off stage, and spun into the curtains, (which I thought was hilarious, but tried not to laugh). I think it was just the excitement of being on a big stage with the other girls that made her act all goofy. (or that could just be my daughter) Knowing the kids were three and four years old, we didn't have very high expectations. Tony and I both said we could care less how well she did, as long as she had fun......and that she did!

Backstage.....

After the show....

I mean really, could she get any cuter? Regardless of her "hear no evil, see no evil, say no evil" mix up (which really made it even cuter), she did pretty damn good.  It was almost as if she was made for the stage. 

I'm pretty sure Riley will be following in her sister's footsteps taking dance. The entire time she was singing and dancing along in the isle of the auditorium (and somehow knew 90% of each dance). I only wish I could have caught it on video. She was so proud of her big sister on stage, and yelled "Kenzie!" "That's Kenzie dancing!!" each time she was performing. It was nice to see her so loving of her big sister.

Spring is FINALLY here!

Spring is finally here.....although it's more like summer! With temperatures in the 90's we've been able to enjoy "summer" a little early this year. This spring has brought tons of new activities, friends, and experiences with the girls. They have enjoyed each minute of being back outside, even after a super mild winter, there is something about that spring sunshine that makes you feel alive again.

Outside fun!

Four little girls...one big zoo!!

Sunshine, sunglasses and smiles.....

New beds....

Going to Grandma and Ted Ted's house....

Preschool has come to an end....

McKenzie completed her first year of preschool. In one year she will be five. One year. Five years old. Going to kindergarten full day. Where has the time gone....

Thanks to all the teachers that spent endless hours with McKenzie teaching her about everything under the sun. She has excelled this year. We have witness such a difference in her vocabulary, communication, and independence, while her imagination still continues to run wild. I love hearing her ask if she has school today, and love watching her get upset when she doesn't. I know she loves it there, and there she is loved.

End of the year St.Elizabeth Ann Seton Art Show

Her teacher Mrs. Shirk

Mother's Day Tea Party 

 After the art show ice cream.

Beef Stroganoff

This is a brand new recipe for me. Love the simpleness of comfort food!

Beef Stroganoff

1 pd ground leanest ground beef ( I used beef tips)
3/4 chopped onion
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
salt and pepper
(cook all together until meat is browned) Drain if needed after meat is cooked.
Then add 3/4 can of beef broth
4 tablespoons of ketsup
one package of chopped mushrooms
(bring to a simmer and set at medium low and cover for 15 minutes) meanwhile start cooking your whole wheat wide egg noodles (one package)
After the strogonof is done simmering, add one container of sour cream and add 1 tablespoon of corn starch to the remaining beef broth and stir then add to the sauce in order to thicken it up. Your noodles should be done. I put the noodles on the plate and then add the sauce over it. This is one of my favorite recipes, it just tastes so good and it shouldnt take you more then 20 minutes to make. 
After the 15 minutes

Easter

It seems like with every year that goes by, holidays are more exciting, the girls' smiles are bigger, and their laughter fills the room just a little bit more. This year was no exception. 

For the second year in a row we experienced the Easter Bunny Train. It's a nice little 20 minute ride on the Adirondack Train, only to be greeted by the Easter Bunny himself at our arrival.  From there they have an Easter egg hunt, animals, and snacks to enjoy. This year Riley was insanely excited. She ran around like a wild woman grabbing every egg she could. Kenzie was just as excited, but especially loved the train ride itself.