Hannah!

 Photos by Brett Holbrook

Photo by Seeden Photography

Our dear friend, Hannah Holbrook (my friend, Michelle's, daughter) competed today with nine other girls for the title of Miss Fountain Valley.  They were judged on their Platform (the cause they championed which had a written component), an ten minute interview, physical fitness (swimsuit), talent and evening gown (based on poise, not the gown itself).  Hannah was glowing all night and looked soooo beautiful. Her swimsuit was a modest one-piece, her piano skills were stellar (she played the theme to Pride and Prejudice and a beautiful red gown), and her evening gown made her look like a princess as she floated across the stage.  Hannah's cousin did her hair and make up making subtle changes through out the evening in her hair and lipstick colors (I found this out from mom).  Her make-up was perfect and her hair was so beautiful that no matter which angle you caught her from, she had amazing curls and volume.

So, I was going to brag about her anyway, but she ended up winning 2nd runner up so now I get to brag some more!  Huzzah!  She won a $500 scholarship for the best Platform (Adoption is an Option) and $1,500 for the 2nd Runner Up title.  Her goal was to present well and have a great experience, and her hard work paid off.  The winner, 1st Runner-up and 3rd Runner-up are all college age women, and our 17-year-old friend held her own.

We've known Hanna since her first-grade year when she moved to California, and it has been so fun to watch this girl grow up! We are so happy for her and proud of her accomplishment!  Way to go Hannah!

First EXTRA Team Soccer Game

With Jenna out of school Tuesday through Friday, we weren't sure she'd make her first EXTRA team game for the spring season.  She braved it though and did a great job.  She wasn't quite as fast as usual (look at the size of the girl next to her!), but she did well keeping a few balls out of danger.  The girls we're playing are from all around south county, and they are the best from their respective areas. Our team over all played very well defensively during their second half.  As soon as we have some shooters, we'll be on our way to scoring some goals, but for now, defense is something we can be proud of.

Disneyland with Daddy

Friday night was the last night we could use our passes on a Friday before they expire (no Fridays or Saturdays for us after Daylight Savings Time kicks in, and we expire in May and September).  Jenna had been out of school all week with sickness, and I was trying to get over sickness as well, so Heather and Daddy went.  They had a blast. How could you not have a blast with two super-fun people hanging out with each other?

One Day of Weather

Today was a fun weather day for someone who loves the artwork of the heavens.  The first picture shows the sunrise in the morning; the second shows the rain as I waited in the drive-through line at In-N-Out around noon; and the rest of the pictures show the sky as the afternoon and twilight passed.  The last two pictures show what the sunset was illuminating where it was setting in the west, and the last picture shows the view as I simply turned around to show what it was was illuminated to the east.  That eastern view is the one we have out our dining area window and front door, and whenever we see the pinks and oranges, we know that something really beautiful is happening with our sunset.  Have I mentioned that I love this?  I'm sure I have.  Once or twice. 

Catalina Pictures

My plan was to post the adventures of Jenna and mom while Heather was away, but Jenna ended up not feeling well Monday night and was home sick from school the rest of the week.  Bummer.

Heather arrived home safely on Wednesday afternoon.  It was fun to pick her up and hear about all the fun.  Heather's besties were all there, and she roomed with two of them.  Those two (Madi and MacKenzie) were in her group, and they had a blast together.  Heather's firsts included sea sickness (on the way over), and snorkeling.  There was an astronomy hike, a rigorous hike and two early morning sunrise hikes (5:30AM!).  The food was fabulous, her group leader/mom was fabulous (thanks Jodi!), and the entire experience was one of the best of her life.  We're so glad she had such a great time.

First 8th Grade Trip

Heather left this morning for her 8th Grade trip to Catalina.  She didn't seem nervous, just excited.  Her friend greeted her, and they were off to check in.  I got a quick photo and a hug.   The door to the library said, "Students Only. No Parents Beyond This Point."  It was like pre-school all over again for the moms.  Boo-hoo.  Really though, we are so glad that she was excited to go and looking forward to the adventure.  She's a camper, hiker, beach going-veteran with two years of church camp under her belt, so I don't think she was really worried.   Can't wait to hear all the stories and see the photos when she gets back on Wednesday!

Jenna had us all to herself.  She chose to play video games with Daddy which was fine with me.  She's a quality time gal, and this is good quality time for her.

Crazy Hair!

It was crazy hair day, and I forgot my phone on the drive to school.  What?!?  I know.  So after school, the hair was still pretty rockin', and we took some photos.  Jenna has the best crazy hair!