Notes from Jolie

Birthday Parties!

2010-05-26T22:32:00.001-05:00

Hmmm...my last blog post was last July, what happened? I'm blaming facebook - it is just too easy to 'surf' facebook instead of doing anything productive. And I'll admit to being a horrid procrastinator. Maybe I will start doing better....tomorrow.

So this blog is linked to The Dance Company website as a way to showcase dance photos and videos - but I also like to keep family up to date on photos of our kids! So this post is a combination of the two - Jalyn's Belated Birthday Party at the Dance Studio. We have been having lots of fun parties lately, and after putting off Jalyn's November Birthday party until May (who said I was a procrastinator?), she finally decided to have a Fashion Makeover Roller Skating Karaoke Party - it was way fun. Here's some pics...

We had fashion.

We danced.

We had makeup...or war paint in some cases...

Silly poses for the camera,

And Friends.

Did I mention Karaoke on Roller Skates?

Birthday Parties at The Dance Company are a really fun way to celebrate with lots of kids, without having lots of kids at your house!! They can run and go crazy and you don't have to worry about spills or broken furniture. We can Roller Skate, sing Karaoke, Dress Up, Dance, Tumble, Cheer - and Celebrate!

Happy Half-Birthday to this wacky girl!

Summer Fun

2009-07-29T08:53:00.007-05:00

I am not ready for summer to come to an end.

Why does it have to go so fast? I suppose it's because we're running from one activity to the next and time flies! We finished our 6th Summer Dance Camp last week - in my opinion it was the funnest year of Summer Camps yet. We had a great group of kids and I thoroughly enjoyed spending the summer with them!

Here's some pics of one of our favorite family activities this summer. Roasting hot dogs and marshmallows on the new patio!

We've lived in our house for 3 years, so there are a lot of projects we still want to get to. In May I convinced Phil to move the garden shed to the backyard so I could put in a patio for our grill and table. We have had this chiminea - not sure how to spell that - for a long long time but it hasn't ever had a 'home'. We have loved it this summer in the evenings!

Here's a good pic of the patio. Its usually in the shade and a great place to hang out to grill or sit by the fire.

In June we went to the Smoky Hill River Festival in Salina. We had never been - and were surprised at how kid-friendly the atmosphere was! There was crafts and face painting for kids, all free, and a childrens entertainment stage. The music was also great and the aisle of food vendors went on and on. Any kind of food you can imagine...and if you know me very well you know that was my favorite part of the weekend!!

And here's my Dad and Jalyn on the 4th of July!

I know there are a lot of other fun pictures on my camera...if only I could find my camera. It has disappeared and I have a bad feeling an 8 year old girl left it out in the yard. The day before it rained. We have turned the house upside down...so I'm crossing my fingers!

Garage Sale...my place...tomorrow

2009-06-25T22:00:00.003-05:00

Be there! My house tomorrow from 3-6:30pm. Thats FRIDAY only! Jace did major cleaning in his room and there are lots of 'boy toys' like cars and trucks, dirtbike magazines, books about legos, star wars and tractors! Lots of kids clothes, a golf bag, lots of books for grown ups and kids, an antique dresser, small table, kitchen stuff, 2 kids tents that are made of thin PVC pipe and have characters on the plastic cover - Cat in the Hat and something else.....

I'm totally stoked about parking in my garage next week. Phil is laughing right now because he knows this is probably not going to happen. In the 13 yrs we've been married my car has never been parked in a garage. But hey, I can dream, right?

Oh My!

2009-06-15T22:58:00.004-05:00

Oh my - I haven't blogged in a long time! 'oh my' - who says that anymore? I also have the tendency to say 'ee gads' and 'yikes'. Maybe I spent too much time with Shaggy and Scooby when my kids were younger.

We've been keeping busy with projects around the house, like building a patio, dyeing my sofa brown, painting the garage white and the shed green, and even painting for a few other people! We've also spent time at the Smoky Hill River Festival in Salina, Pillsbury Crossing in Manhattan, Milford Lake and lots of softball games! Who has time to blog?

But I did want to mention that Princess Camp Week begins tomorrow! It is so much fun for the little ones - and there's still time to enroll! In Clay Center we're meeting the mornings of June 16-18 and in Concordia the following week, June 23-25. We dance, do crafts, read stories, play games and eat snacks all with a Princess Theme! Here's some photos from last year!

Hope to see you there!!

Backstage Photos

2009-04-29T09:49:00.012-05:00

Here's some more backstage photos from a most Awesome evening in Concordia! Your Recital was beautiful and everyone did a super-fantastic job!! I don't have the official photos from Jamie yet, so here are some scenes from backstage - there are a lot of photos floating around on Facebook too - check us out, and become a fan, by searching The Dance Company of Clay Center and Concordia! I posted lots of pics, and a video from the Concordia Basketball Performance. (still working on all the others)

Also wanted to say THANK YOU for the Ipod Speakers!! It was very thoughtful, and I appreciate you pulling together to do something so special! I have never had an Ipod - so I'm still figuring it all out! Yes, I'm a a little behind! But I'm very excited, THANK YOU Very Much!!!

Concordia Spring Recital...this weekend!!

2009-04-24T10:13:00.004-05:00

I can't believe it - but our End of Year Recital is this weekend in Concordia! It's bittersweet...I'm excited for the Recital and to see all the kids shine! And I'm ready for our Summer Break!! (who isn't??) But I can't believe our Dance Season is almost over! Wow - hasn't the year gone by fast!! (I say that every year!!!) We've had a great one - I'm so proud of all the kids! And we have a great show in store for you this weekend! Our Recital is Saturday evening at the Brown Grand Theatre in Concordia. 7pm - hope to see you there! Here's some Concordia Snapshots from last year!

Backstage in Clay Center

2009-04-22T21:22:00.011-05:00

We made it thru another awesome Dance Recital in Clay Center! The best one yet, I would say!! I am so proud of all the kids - they really did their best and had fun doing it! I am not good about remembering to snap those Kodak moments backstage...but here are a few pictures!

This is a side-ways view of our Dance Company Logo cookies - it was part of my gift on Sunday - Thank You! They were delicious by the way!! And Thank You SOOOOO very much for the Pink Ipod!! I have never had one, but borrow Phil's once in awhile. (his isn't pink.) So I'm going to have fun adding music - and it will be much more convenient when taking music to the studio. What a GREAT idea! Thank you!!!!!

Here's Jalyn dressed up and ready to go on Saturday morning for rehearsal.

Nice crocks, Ballerina Girl.

We had lots of help backstage this year - Thanks to all of you! Our TV wouldn't work to watch the show from backstage, so they colored...played ring around the rosie - what fun!

It was a great Recital and I've had lots of compliments - the kids really shined!! Thank You!!

In other news..... Jace graduated from DARE on Tuesday:

Jalyn found lots of baby snakes in my rock garden...right by our bedroom window...:(

and Sammi Jo jumped into the bathtub with Jalyn last night. This is her 'disturbed' face:

We're gearing up for Round II -- Recital in Concordia this weekend! It's at the Brown Grand Theatre on Saturday evening, the 25th, at 7pm. I'll post some more pictures tomorrow - Hope to see you there!!

Basketball Game in Concordia

2009-04-20T08:04:00.005-05:00

Here's the video from our Basketball Game in Concordia in January of 09. It's our Pre-k thru 5th grade students! They were awesome!!!

You're Invited!

2009-04-16T21:29:00.007-05:00

You're invited to The Dance Company's 5th Annual Spring Recital! It's this Sunday, April 19th, at 2pm at the Martyn-Snodgrass Auditorium in Clay Center. I can't believe the season has gone so fast! My gosh, Summer is just around the corner! This year's recital is going to be a really fun one - great music and adorable kids! Even if you don't know any of the dancers - it will still be fun to watch. Lots of music from the 70's and 80's this year - like the Brady Bunch, Captain and Tenille, James Taylor, Footloose - fun stuff! Here's some of my favorite pictures from last year...

The Pre-Schoolers always steal the show!

Last year this ballet group was one of my favorites!

And the Daddy's always close the show with a bang! This year is the best one yet - I'm telling you...you have to see these guys! They are hilarious...not that I'm laughing AT them..I'm laughing WITH them!!! They will steal the show and you don't want to miss it! This brave Dad will be on stage again this year...

Hope you can make it!

Cute Pictures

2009-03-24T07:49:00.006-05:00

Here's some Dance Pictures I have been meaning to post...this is the 5th graders in Concordia - aren't they cute! They danced at Night of 1000 Dances in February.

This was so cute...the Pre-Schoolers were waiting patiently to perform. They played Ring Around the Rosie and sang songs. So cute!

And heres a glimpse of what we did on Spring Break...Jalyn roller-skated all the way to Nanas! We also baked 2 cakes, raked lots of leaves and took a few bike rides.

Jace went to the lake twice with his dirtbike, but it didn't make it thru the 2nd trip - big wreck. He didn't get hurt but the bike is sad in the garage!! Hope you all had a good week off!

Valentine Messages from my 2nd Grader

2009-02-09T22:48:00.006-06:00

I've said it before, I'll say it again: My Kids Crack Me UP! They are hilarious. And so individual - what one likes the other hates and vice versa. Jalyn has always loved to prepare her Valentines for school. She has always sat down as soon as we get home with the treasured box of Valentine Cards, with little heart stickers, and filled them all out. She usually remembers all the kids in her class without having a list...which always amazes me! So this year, she decided to create her own Valentines from scratch. This was great for me because it kept her busy for awhile, and I didn't have to spend any more money on Hannah Montana merchandise. So she cuts out hearts, decorates with borders and stickers, etc. And then decides she should add a special 'Valentine Message' to each one. Be My Valentine, BFF, Hugs, Be Mine - you get the idea. Here's a 'You'r tottaly Speicel' example:

There are 18 kids in her class, which is a lot of Valentine Messages to come up with. She started getting creative....Ohla Seinor:

COOKIES! :

But the following two take the 'Valentine Cake' :

That's right, 'boing' and 'dong'. What does that mean exactly? I'm sure it doesn't mean what we're thinking....get your minds out of the gutter! I'm glad Dong is going to Alexis, rather than say 'Bob' or 'Steve'.

I'm also glad I saw these before she tucked them in her bookbag. And don't worry, boing's mother is my friend so I'll explain everything... Happy Valentines Day!

I really need to blog something

2009-02-04T22:34:00.006-06:00

Holy Cow I really need to update my blog. I told myself I would do better. Just like I said I would diet..exercise..eat more fruits and veggies...all my resolutions are out the window. I am however walking tomorrow with my Sister who is also struggling with 'resolutions' and I also had a SALAD today at Danny's. With my sister. We were reminiscing about how we used to walk in the dead of winter wearing black ski masks. We would get nervous when a car drove by...'What if they call the police because some crazy people with ski masks are walking around downtown!'

So I haven't updated because I was trying to upload my video from when the dancers performed at the Basketball halftime. I thought...as soon as I get it transfered in I'll update. But I am cord challenged...I don't have the right one. Procrastinating is another one of my resolutions...I still haven't gone to Radio Shack to get the right cord. Once I do...I'll post our Basketball dances...which total 3 now. Another thing I was going to keep up on.

I have been very busy this month with Costume Ordering! I love sitting down in the fall with my stack of Costume Catalogs...searching for just the right dress for this song or that dance. I make notes, put it away, and then in another month I start all over. Make more notes. This year there are 28 classes to choose an outfit for. I know it sounds trivial..but I'm so picky and have to find just the right one! And if you don't order early...then everyone else gets their order in first and yours is backordered for eternity. So by the end of January I can't stand to open another Costume Catalog or view another list of tops or pants online. AND weekly, 100 kids are saying 'what are we gonna wear?' 'did you bring a picture?' Last year I posted some photos of costumes on order. Maybe I'll do that. Right after I find the right video cord...

Here's some Christmas pics of the kids...This one is all the 'Johnston' family kids on Christmas Eve. What a full house!

Sammi is really curious about that present...Santa brought her Puppy Cookies with Sprinkles, she just finished them off the other day. Now she won't eat normal puppy treats. They don't have sprinkles.

Santa brought Jace a dirtbike helmet. And Jalyn got a stuffed pig. Yes, it was on the top of her list. She also asked for a Duck Mask, a $500 bill, a wig, a beautiful dress, an alarm clock. She's such a card!

Have a Great Day!

Feeding the Deer

2009-01-03T08:10:00.008-06:00

Over Christmas Break we went to Branson to visit Phil's Dad and his family. They actually live in Omaha, Arkansas which is right over the state line and about 15 minutes from Branson. We had a great time, as we don't get to see them very often. We also did some shopping and sightseeing! But one of the highlights of the trip was feeding Grandpas 'pet deer'.

They didn't realize when they moved into this neighborhood that it came complete with pet deer! Notice how this one has a collar on?? Apparently the neighbors fed and cared for two baby deer and as they grew they continued to visit. Now they visit all the neighbors, coming right into their yards to sniff and play! There are 4 babies and 2 fawns. Their house is surrounded by a wooded area, which provides the perfect environment for them.

They were still fairly jumpy, especially if the 'bystanders' took any steps closer. Lorin and the kids were feeding them graham crackers!

A highlight for the kids is getting to play with Cousin Emma. We don't see them often enough, and the girls are only 7 weeks apart so they have a great time.

We saw this car several times and Jace had to get his picture taken with it! We snapped this one, then went inside the 'Dixie Outfitters' store and read that it actually costs $10 to get your picture taken with the car. whoops! It was a fun store with lots of Dukes of Hazzard stuff - Jace has always liked that show...and that car.

And I love this picture of the kids at Joe's Crab Shack. They look like they actually like each other here, they aren't punching, pinching or screaming. We missed the waiters dancing at Joe's, but saw them from outside the window later. But the table behind us provided plenty of entertainment...the little blonde girl had a stuffed panda that she was throwing up in the air. It landed in her food once and then knocked her sisters drink over -- after the older girl dumped pop rocks in her pepsi and made it explode all over the wall. See how the Mom is nervously looking for the waiter with the check?? Made my kids look like angels!!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-23T22:09:00.007-06:00

Merry Christmas! Here's some of our Holiday photos so far...

This is my Mom, Sister and I on our annual Shopping Trip! This year we stayed overnight in KC and shopped for two days. This trip is almost better than Christmas Day...we take our time, goof around, eat a lot, and just enjoy getting away together! It is so much fun! AND notice our 'matching pj's' -- my Mom really takes this shopping thing seriously. This picture was taken in the hotel lobby about midnight, I made them go to the lobby for a picture! They weren't very happy about it, but I don't care. We had to get those pj's on film!

On Dec. 14th our little church in the country celebrated with it's annual Christmas Program. As we do every year, the kids close the program with a Nativity Scene. The lighting is low, so it's tough to get a good picture - but you get the idea. Moms and Grandmas had to join the little ones on stage just to keep them there! These are the same angel costumes I wore when I was little! This is one thing I will really miss when our childhood church must close its doors, possibly next year.

You guessed it, Jace and Jalyn were Joseph and Mary in the program...

And I'm glad Jace isn't too big to sit on Santa's lap!

Jalyn did her own hair for school today!

HO HO HO and Merry Christmas! Hope you have a great one!

Bestest Sugar Cookies Ever!

2008-12-15T14:32:00.002-06:00

I have so many photos I want to blog - but in the meantime I am eating...I mean baking...the best sugar cookies ever and thought I would pass along the recipe! Phil does most of the cooking in the house - but I love to bake yummies. Probably because I like eating them - but whatever.

Melt in Your Mouth Sugar Cookies

1 c powdered sugar
1 c white sugar
1 c butter
1 c oil
pinch of salt
2 eggs
1 t baking soda
1 t cream of tartar
1 t vanilla
4 c sugar

Beat the sugars, butter, oil & salt really well. Then add eggs and dry ingredients. Make into balls and roll in sugar (I used colored sugar for the holidays). Bake on ungreased cookie sheet for 8 minutes at 350.

And, with only a cup of butter and a cup of oil, they're practically fat free!!

Enjoy - and Happy Holiday Baking!!

Proud to be a Dance Teacher!

2008-12-08T21:41:00.008-06:00

I was so proud of our Dance Students last week at The Nutcracker! They did a wonderful job and worked very hard to pull off a successful show! Despite some backstage disasters...the show went off without a hitch!

I haven't seen Jamie's pictures yet, she's still working on editing them...but they'll be posted on her website soon - www.infullbloomphotography.com. In the meantime, here are some backstage photos we took.

I encouraged the 'big kids' to play with the 'little kids' and keep them busy during the show! Sometimes the waiting backstage can be a little too exciting! Here's a rousing game of Ring Around the Rosies, and shown above a Dancing Doll reads a Christmas Story to an Angel! Beautiful!

I am so proud of them...when I have doubts about doing the show, when life seems so busy and I'm not sure I want to dive into such an enormous project...I just remember that 'Cloud 9' feeling I get seeing the kids in costume, the smiles on their faces, the excitement in their eyes, and the tears in my eyes watching those angels squeal with excitement when the balloons come down! It's so worth it!! So Thank You to those who participated, those who helped backstage or on stage, and those who came to watch - Thanks for making it a special night!

The Nutcracker

2008-11-30T08:07:00.007-06:00

Our Nutcracker Program is this Wednesday and I hope many of you can come and watch. It is such a neat program - it's not just a Dance Recital, it's children acting out a Christmas Play, set to music. There is also more Christmas songs and dancing with props in the second half. They do such a good job - you will not be disappointed. And it will definately help you get in the Christmas Spirit!

I'm even in the show as the 'Aunt' - there are several parents involved on stage. These are some photos from the last time the Clay Center group did The Nutcracker, in 2006.

Lauren gets to be a soldier...again this year! Each of the classes works on a part in the show, like Soldiers, Flowers, Mice, Snowflakes, Angels...and then we put them all together the night of the show.

Jalyn was a snowflake last time, this time she's a Soldier, a Flower and a Candy Cane.

Airika was our 'Clara' in 2006. Wasn't she cute!

I always loved this picture of the angels watching and waiting to go on stage. There are so many neat things about the show - you will enjoy it even if you're not there to watch someone specific. It is just so neat to see the kids on the stage trying so hard.

The Show is on Wednesday December 3rd @ 7:00pm at the Martyn Snodgrass Auditorium. Tickets are only $5 for adults and $2 for children - I hope you can make it!

Please Pass the Rooster

2008-11-23T13:46:00.004-06:00

Friday night was the Football Association End of Year Banquet. It was fun to see all the boys together, and to recognize them for a fun year of football!

Here's Phil giving the 5th grade speech...it wasn't as boring as Bob is making it look.

On another 'football note', at a recent Tiger Football game, Jace and I were sitting in the stands together. He was more 'into' the games this year, understood what was going on on the field and knew some of the players. He turns to me and says, "Can you please pass the rooster?" Huh? I replied. "The Rooster, can I look at it?" After a few minutes of this I realized he was asking for the Roster....

Which reminds me of last Halloween when we were at my Moms with all the cousins and the kids were making candy trades - you know, I'll trade you my Snickers for your Hershey bar, important bartering skills. They kept wanting to trade their 'Whoopers' aka Whoppers.

Jalyn got a new PJ outfit a few years ago for Christmas that came with a matching Robe. She was frustrated one evening when I wouldn't bring her the rib, the one that matched her PJ's.

And finally, this one really cracked me up...today I was being silly at home and Jace says 'Mom, I'm really glad you're not a normal Mom'. What does that mean exactly? According to Jace, normal Moms are always helping with PEP and are always having parties at their houses and make their kids dress nice for school....hmmmm...I guess we don't have parties much - when I'm vacuuming the kids always ask whos coming over.

What did I ever do with my time before I had two goofy kids!!!

Strike a Pose

2008-11-03T22:36:00.012-06:00

Nevermind those boring 'stand up straight for the camera, kids' pictures - when I tell my kids to strike a Halloween pose, this is what I get:

Jalyn was a Genie and Jace an army-guy. He got all new garb and Thanks to my Mom - had all Phil's Air Force Patches sewn on by Halloween Night! He's soooo into military stuff, in fact he was an army guy last year too!

I was also the room Mom at Jalyn's classroom...wait a minute, where's our little Genie? Ahh yes, shown here is Jalyn's Halloween Costume #1, the Old Lady. Jalyn lives in a Dress-Up World...if she didn't have to wear real clothes she wouldn't. She would be something different every day of the week. So a few weeks before Halloween, she has a Master Costume List, models each and every one, then asks for a scale of 1-10 rating. She then evaluates the list to determine her top 3 choices. Then she changes her mind 3, no 4 times, to come up with America's Top Costume. She packs it neatly in her bag for school, ok she stuffs it in her bag, wears it for the school party, comes home and 15 minutes before Trick or Treat time she decides to change costumes. Last year she went from a Black Cat to a 50's Girl. This year, Old Lady to Genie.

Dance Clinic in Wichita

2008-11-01T15:27:00.007-05:00

A few weeks ago we went to a 'Dance Directive' in Wichita. It was a day-long dance camp with lots of interesting teachers and styles of dance! The highlight was getting to meet Kourtni Lind (a So You Think You Can Dance contestant from last season)! She was one of my favorites on the show and recently joined the Talent on Parade Dance Directive Staff! She was our teacher for Lyrical and Contemporary dance. The picture above is our girls (except Haley - she was in the Advanced Room) with Kourtni!
This picture shows the large group warm-up. I think there were about 100 kids there!

We split up into 2 groups, Advanced and Intermediate. Here is Allisa, Zoe, Miranda and Jalyn in the Intermediate room. Tap Dance was the first thing we learned.

I was proud of Jalyn - several times during the day she volunteered or was chosen to dance up on the front stage! She was raising her hand and answering questions - which was a little frightening in a group that size, considering she was one of the youngest ones there! She was definately 'in her element' at this day-camp! In this picture she's the one in the middle on stage!

Here is Kourtni Lind's class - and I was cracking up at how Jalyn had made her way ALL the way up to the front row! She's in the middle with the knee socks on!

We took lots of time-outs to watch each other in groups. Here's the girls being cheezy for the camera! It was dark in the room, and my camera didn't do very well with the lighting and red-eye!

I was also very proud of Allissa when she was selected as a Scholarship Winner at the end of the day! They only picked 8 kids, and she won a certificate to come for free next year! (she has on red pants in the back row!) Overall, it was a good time and I can't wait for next year!

Fall Activities

2008-10-23T21:58:00.007-05:00

It's been awhile since I updated...so I'm just lumping a bunch of activities into one post. When I'm taking the photo I'm thinking...this will make great blog material...but then it sits on my camera...and then it sits on my computer...and then I never get it loaded here!

Football has been a major family activity this fall - Jace is playing on the 5th grade Tiger team and Phil is the head Coach. Jalyn also enjoys going to the practices and has Cheered with The Dance Company at a few games! The picture above is their 'breakdown' at the end of the game. It's so cute!

My sister took some awesome pictures of the kids at the last home game. Here is Jace catching a pass in the endzone for the extra 2 points! Isn't he awesome!

I have lots more football pics that I'll post soon...

Here's Jalyn at our Browndale Farms trip - we're hoping to make it out for Flashlight Night at the Corn maze!!

For some reason this picture didn't rotate like it was supposed to...but you get the idea - Jalyn played soccer this fall, which was fun for her! This is when she was the goalie - but when the ball would come her way she would put her hands over her face and shout NOOOO! The rest of the time she was dancing and doing cartwheels.....

Sammi Jo, my third child, likes to take her 'babies' to bed with her! She sleeps on Jalyn's bed, actually under Jalyn's covers, but she gets up over..and over..and over to bring more stuffed animals onto the bed with her. And she seems to like the expensive ones best???

Wow - Jalyn LOVES 2nd Grade!!! She is GIDDY about 2nd grade! Give that girl some homework!!!

Why don't you just relax?

2008-09-10T22:06:00.003-05:00

My dog is such a dork...here she is, after a long morning of begging breakfast, chasing the cat, chewing on Webkin Babies, and pooping on the floor. It's a rough life, but somebody's gotta do it! This is what we should all be doing right now...kickin' back on the couch with not one but two pillows...yep - just talked myself into it! night night!

Havin' FUN at Worlds of Fun!

2008-08-24T22:10:00.011-05:00

At the Concordia Spring Recital, our family was given an awesome gift - a Family Pass to Worlds of Fun! It was great for us because we love to go to Kansas City right before school starts, as a final celebration of summer. We usually hit the Great Wolf Lodge and back to school shopping at Legends or anywhere for that matter! I have successfully raised 2 kids who love to shop! So this year, we hit Worlds of Fun, then stayed at a little cottage on the grounds and hit Oceans of Fun the next day! It was a great time, and may be our new family summer tradition!

We met Snoopy...

We went with the John, Darci and their 2 kids - which was great for our kids, they loved it! Phil and John did the bungee-rip cord thing which was totally crazy if you ask me. None of my pictures really did the height justice, it was so high! This photo is them whizzing by us!

Jace and Jalyn climbed the rock wall...

Tori even made it to the top and almost hit the button but lost her grip! It was a 'gripping' moment....

Here's Phil and Jace riding the go-karts. Jalyn and I raced too!

And the kids drove their own buggy - it was really a fun day! So, Thank you to those who contributed to the gift, we had a great time and it was a terrific way to end the summer! Dance Classes start next week and we'll all get busy again - yeah!

Proud of my Kiddos!

2008-08-10T23:06:00.006-05:00

July was a very busy month for us...by the way, when is it that summer slows down???? Anyway, we played baseball, softball, football and participated in the Clay County Fair. Here's some highlights...

Jace decided to enter some legos in the Open Class section of the fair. We have never done 4-H, but he always admires the exhibits and says 'maybe next year I can enter something!' So this year we stuck to it and he prepared a lego display. The cool thing about it was he built a World War II scene with little men sitting in bunkers with guns, and other little men coming off boats and tanks and moving forward - and he wrote an essay about the War...it was really cool! He also built some Star Wars ships and wrote an essay about how he built them, and how Star Wars and legos were 2 of his favorite things. We were so proud of him when we found out he won the Grand Champion, purple ribbon! He says he's never won anything before in his life...which made it even sweeter.

Then football started the last part of July, they had practice when it was over 100 degrees! Here he is in his football get-up, cooling off after practice.

Jalyn played on the traveling softball team this summer, and they went to the State Tournament in Wichita in July also! It was a really fun weekend, despite the rainy weather that delayed our games several times. They ended up losing 2 and winning 1, but having a good time in between! The rain delays were several hours each, but the girls had a good time hanging out and making friends.

And of course I'm always up for eating out! We went to Applebees with my good friend, Michelle, and her 2 girls Bey Lee and Lauren. Here's Lauren, she's only 2 but had to have the black stuff for her eyes too - and can you see those bright blue 'icee' lips??? Wait a minute, I just noticed the big girls don't have black stuff on their eyes....so that must have only been necessary for spectators.

Jalyn and Bey Lee became good friends this summer, which is great because she lives in Miltonvale and we don't get to see Bey Lee very often. The girls were in daycare together when they were younger so it was fun to get reaquainted.

So there's an overview of our busy summer, and just a little bragging about our awesome, sometimes goofy, kids...we're pretty proud of them!!

The Haircut

2008-07-30T08:31:00.009-05:00

It's done. The hair is gone. I'm sure no one is in mourning, with the exception of Phil. In case you didn't already know, Phil put his hair up for auction to raise money for the Chapman Relief Fund. OK, the hair wasn't actually up for auction because who would really want that...the haircut was up for auction...people who wanted to see Phil cut his hair bid as much as $220 to make that happen. And it could have gone a lot higher but at the 5 minute cut off, the 5th Grade Football Moms had the bid at $220. (Phil coaches the 5th graders and apparently the Moms ganged up to make sure he couldn't get out of this one!)

So here we are, at Mane Effect where Susan has donated her time to cut the mop, I mean Phil's hair.

Look how long it was! She actually cut 7 inches!

Here's the audience...

Don't you like Phil's clippy?

And then Jace had to get a matching cut - his had been getting pretty long too! So here they are, my two favorite guys with their new do's. Aren't they striking????

Thanks, Susan, for donating your time, and for those who participated in the bidding. It was all in fun, and for a great cause!

Gearing up for Open House!

2008-07-28T12:18:00.009-05:00

We finally concluded our Summer Camp Schedule last Saturday with our Saturday Day Camp in Concordia. All in all, we had almost 100 kids participate in Summer Classes at the studio! That is more than ever before! Thanks for your participation!

We had a great time, we decorated hats and shoe bags...
and the Roller Skating is always my favorite. Tori was showing off her tricks...but most of us were mainly just falling down! But it was still lots of fun!

Ceanna and Erin were great sports, being the oldest at camp the little ones really took to them! Liah rarely left her side!

Genna and Alex got the Spirit Award for their skating skills...or lack thereof...they never stopped smiling and laughing - and never complained when I know some of those falls must have hurt!

We also did tumbling, jazz, ballet, tap, hip hop, kick and some games. I wish I had more pictures of the dancing - I'm terrible about remembering to snap pictures! I only brought the camera one day and Janelle took most of these!

Open House is coming up in Clay Center on August 7th and in Concordia on August 8th. I can't believe summer is almost over! It always goes so fast. The Enrollment Newsletters are going out this week - so watch your mail! If you want to be added to the mailing list, just e-mail me with your address!

Happy 4th!

2008-07-05T19:32:00.010-05:00

Hope you all had a Happy 4th of July!

My Mom always buys the grandkids a 4th of July t-shirt, so we tried to get a decent picture of the 5 of them. It's always comical but frustrating at the same time...there's the goofy faces from the boys....

The dog trying to jump in the picture...

Alyxis getting splinters from our unfinished porch project... which finally makes everyone smile.

And we have a keeper!

Sammi was a little out of sorts...she lays back her ears when she gets disturbed.

My Mom is looking and feeling great! She has had 4 of 6 treatments, and is ready to have her energy back, but overall doing really, really well!

Jalyn was kinda jumpy, she'll stick to the poppers that you throw on the ground...in fact, when the boys were just getting started she was ready for bed. Went inside and put on her pjs!

Zeb and Jace were throwing firecrackers...which was driving me crazy! Every year the Moms sit on the porch and yell at the kids all night, and the Dads egg them on more and more. It was cracking me up how Zeb was throwing his leg out everytime he 'wound up' to throw a firecracker! Hope you had a safe and FUN Day!!

Memories from Princess Camp

2008-06-28T22:22:00.009-05:00

We made it thru our first year of Princess Dance Camp! We had a great time! I took a few snapshots, and thought I would share a few. We played dress up...

Had Tea Parties...

And of course, Danced!

We also made crafts like this beautiful Princess Crown....no, it's not a dunce cap. We had a little trouble getting it to stay on, they were a little top heavy - but isn't she having fun! What a smile!

We played with dancing Barbies - she's spinning on her own!

And made lots of new friends! Thanks to those of you who attended, I hope the kids had a great time!

Kinda freaky...

2008-06-28T22:04:00.004-05:00

There's just something about a china doll that kinda freaks me out.

This picture greeted me when I was uploading pictures to my computer this evening.

I wasn't expecting it.

I guess I've watched too many horror flicks...I can just see their eyes blinking on their own when I look at them.

Jalyn likes to borrow my camera for just one picture. Those are famous last words. The other night at the ballgame she borrowed it for just one picture. Sixty pictures later she brought the camera back. Most of them were of playground toys, and her friends belly.

She just told me these pictures are for the book she wrote, they are the illustrations. I'm pretty sure the book she wrote was about an alligator...so I'm not sure where the pretty girls tie in. I think it crashed their birthday party.

She also took lots of pictures of the doll house I recently found at a garage sale. It has occupied many hours of her time, and Jace's...complete with lego figures as the occupants. I think we had a doll house when I was little, the tin kind with the sharp edges. There was just something about this one that I couldn't pass up...a classic toy that never goes out of style!

Princess for a Day

2008-06-13T22:20:00.002-05:00

A new addition to this year's Summer Schedule is Princess Dance Camp! I'm so excited for our first session next week - to share my ideas with these pretty Princesses! We're going to have tea parties, do Princess crafts, have Storytime, and of course...Dance! The picture above is actually a Princess Birthday Party, but I loved how determined they all were, in their tinsel tiaras and Princess gowns!

The Clay Center session is June 17-20th from 9:30-11:30am. The Concordia session will be held June 24-27th from 9:30 - 11:30am. I think the activities would be appropriate for children age 4-7. I hope to see many of you there - and bring a friend!

Dress-Up!

2008-06-13T21:41:00.006-05:00

Our Church Pastor, Glenn Tombaugh, is being transferred to a church in Wichita. We're so sad to see him go, he is easy to talk to and easy to listen to and we will miss him and his family! You're wondering what Pastor Glenn has to do with Dress Up, aren't you?

In cleaning out closets to pack for their move, the girls decided to clean out their many...many childhood dance costumes. So they donated them to the Dance Studio! One of our favorite activities at Birthday Parties and special events is DRESS UP!

And of course Jalyn had to try on every last one of them before taking them to the studio!! And with each costume comes a 'strike a pose' photo opportunity! Here's some of my favorites!

It's Jump Jive and Wail girl...

The Joker...

Salsa Queen...

And then there are those 'unique looks' that we can't quite identify...But it was sure fun to try them on! Thank You Tombaugh Family!

sad sad trampoline

2008-06-05T22:28:00.002-05:00

Well, here's our major storm damage....our trampoline (new this spring) was thrown into the neighbors yard. Of course, it could have been worse, it could have been thrown into our house, or car. And I know there are many people who have lost much much more during this active storm season.

The tornadoes traveled just west of Clay Center, my husband saw one out the window of the radio station which is on the west side of town. We were lucky to just have strong winds and rain at our house. But I've heard of some total loss situations outside of town, and also from friends who live in Republic County who were hit by storms last week. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Guitar Hero

2008-06-01T22:39:00.004-05:00

I started this blog as a 'Dance Photo Album' - as a branch of our Studio site to feature photos from performances and activities. But now I've caught the 'blog bug' - that state of mind that everything is blog material. Everything we do now, I think - ooh I have to get a picture of this, it's great blog material. I'm pretty sure I caught it from my sister. The other day we were discussing that Live Active cheese - I won't get into the nature of the discussion but she says 'OH, you have to take a photo of the cheese and tell the story on your blog - it's great blog material'. Now everything we do I'm thinking...blog material...

I have also been thinking that I blog Jalyn way more than Jace. I suppose it's because of the whole 'dance theme'...but now that summer is here and things at the studio are slow, I can venture into the exciting tales of Kasper Summer Activities.

Jace started guitar lessons this winter. He really likes it, and is actually getting pretty good. It's kinda cool because he's learning on my Dad's old Silvertone guitar from the attic. We dusted off the cobwebs but the sentimental value remains, and I am enjoying seeing him play it. It's shown in the bottom photo...

But back to what inspired the 'blog material'....We went to see Paper or Plastic, a High School 'rock band' which features Christian music. They were playing at our church, and the guitar player just happens to be Jace's teacher, Brock Bebermeyer.

This is pretty much where Jace stood the entire concert. He never took his eyes of Brock. And I have to say, I was really impressed with these guys! The drummer is also a good friend of ours, and the bass guitar and lead singer are brothers, their Mom works with Phil at the Radio Station. When they started playing, I couldn't stop smiling. I don't know what I expected, but I thoroughly enjoyed the evening. My favorite was when Brock played an acoustic guitar and sang by himself, it was awesome.

Jace was inspired to practice when we got home - and it's neat that the guys have something they can enjoy together.

Picture Pick-Up Day!

2008-05-26T17:58:00.005-05:00

Picture pick-up day will be Tuesday, May 27th at the Studio in Concordia! I will be there from about 10 until 5:30, so please stop by to get pictures! DVD's will also be available on that day!

If you're unable to make it on Tuesday, the next available day is Sunday June 1st from 2-3:30pm, at the Studio.

After that, the studio will be open on Wednesdays in June from 10-11 for Toddler Music and Movement!

Hope to see you soon!

The attached pictures were some 'fun shots' Jamie took on picture day - these girls were waiting in between groups and put together some fun poses!

I Wanna Be a Supermodel!

2008-05-21T17:37:00.010-05:00

Jalyn recently got the opportunity to have her own special 'photo session' with my sister, Jamie. I didn't get to go...but I packed some of her dancing clothes from the Recital. They went to my Dad's farm, the old park in Green, and the alley downtown - but I don't think it would matter where they were - the poses and ideas are so cute and creative! Jalyn really felt like a queen! I am posting some of my favorites - but there are so many more. I don't know how I'll ever choose which ones to frame!! The great thing about them, is it's not the same old cheezy smile she gives me everytime a dig out the camera...she's not standing straight up in front of some tree in the front yard! Like the straight face one above - they really show her personality.

This one's on the back steps to the Clay Center Studio!

I loved the ones with this tutu and her cowgirl boots!

You can tell I really like the black/white or vintage tones, but this one is so bright and joyful. There is a stage at the Green Park and she just told Jalyn to get up there and dance! What a treat for her, and what a genious Jamie is with her camera! Thanks, Jamie for making Jalyn feel so special!

She won't ever let me pay her for all the time she spends working on our Dress Rehearsal photos - so yesterday I treated her (and myself) to pedicures and lunch at Chile's! It was a really fun day, and of course we couldn't resist a little shopping on the side! It was nice to take a day to ourselves, and just goof around!

Check out Jamie's blog and website for some more photos she's taken of her kids and mine. She has done lots of sessions with little ones and they are adorable!! http://www.infullbloomphotography.com/ or http://www.claycenterblooms.blogspot.com/

GOLD.....times SIX!

2008-05-12T22:30:00.009-05:00

GREAT GREAT GREAT job at Competition on Saturday! All six of our groups received a GOLD rating - which is awesome! I was so proud of you! I know some of you were nervous, but you didn't show it on stage - you all did a great job! We received new plaques for the studio wall, and each of you will get a Hall of Fame 'Gold' Pin!

I thoroughly enjoyed watching the dancers from other studios - it's quite an eye opener and sometimes makes us look very conservative!! But I did see some fun stuff, and although I'm ready for summer break - I'm also excited to start fresh in the fall with some new ideas!

I hope the girls were as inspired as I was, because after all - that's what it's all about! Getting inspired to be the best dancer that they can be!

I LOVE LOVE this picture of the 5-6th graders in Concordia! It just shows how being part of a team can bring you closer! Building friendships...creating great memories!

The Modern Class above...and the 5th graders from Clay Center below. Rylee R also performed her solo in KC and received a GOLD rating, and a Superstar Dancer Award! Congrats Rylee!

The 3-4th Grade 'Thriller' dance was a fun one! And below is the Ballet class from Clay Center.

I didn't get a group shot of the 'Red Umbrella' group - they performed earlier in the day and I wasn't thinking ahead! Emily, Sara & Erin did a great job, they are in the large group picture at the top.

Great Job everyone!!!

You were Awesome!!

2008-05-01T09:35:00.008-05:00

Wow! We made it through another GREAT Recital Season! The Brown Grand was standing room only in Concordia! WOW! That's over 600 people coming to support our awesome kids. I always love the backstage pictures! Above is backstage at Concordia. Our dressing area isn't very big, so we did our pow-wow right on the stage before the curtain went up! Below is the dressing room at Clay Center.

Here's Jalyn and Lindley, right before the Opening Number. I said 'strike a pose' and this is what they did. Superstars!

Here's Taylor 'mudding' up her Thriller T-shirt! I thought it was hilarious - I said they could put mud or makeup on their shirts to make them look more 'zombie-like'. So, right before the Recital Taylor took her shirt right outside and smashed it around in the dirt!

Allison and the girls stayed with us after the Clay Center Dress Rehearsal, so they didn't have to drive all the way back to Republic. The girls had the best time! They all had their 'penguin' pj's on, in Jalyn's twin size bed, with the dog of course!

Isn't this a cute picture of Darcee with the 'New York' class? We will miss Darcee as she and her fiance have moved to Beatrice, Nebraska! He was given a job promotion, but we are crossing our fingers that another transfer back to Manhattan is in their future!

Don't forget to view all the Recital Snapshots at www.infullbloomphotography.com!

Thanks Jamie!

Great Job Clay Center!

2008-04-16T14:45:00.002-05:00

Wow! What a great job everyone did at the Spring Recital! Each year the show just gets better and better. I am very proud of all of you!

Soon I'll post some of my favorite moments in pictures...but I wanted to post the link for Jamie's snapshots. She always takes some fun ones, this year there are over 400 pictures! She posted them on her website, you can place your order right there and I'll deliver them when they come in!

http://www.infullbloomphotography.com/photocart

Thanks again, Jamie, for all your time and talent!

Recital Moments...2007

2008-04-02T21:22:00.006-05:00

As we come up on Recital Season 2008, I decided to flashback to some favorite moments of last year's Recital! Rachael and I agreed that it was our best show yet...can we top it on April 12th??

Remember the solos? Josie flipping her hair? And Hannah the Nun? How about when Maggie had to go pottie during her Pre-School dance and told the rest of the girls to 'Wait right here, I'll be right back!'? The tap-dancing twin boys? It was so much fun!

We have a great show in store for you this year too...I have seen more improvement this year than ever before! The kids are developing their style and it's so fun to be a part of their after school lives! Each year at this time, I am both excited and saddened at the thought of ending another Dance Season. Excited for the time I can spend at home with my family, but sad that the year is coming to an end and classes will be over just when we were starting to get in the swing of things! Doesn't it seem like we just started??

Tell your friends not to miss the Clay Center Spring Recital! Saturday, April 12th, 7:30pm at the CCCHS Auditorium!

Happy SPRING BREAK!

2008-03-18T22:11:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone can take some time off this week and enjoy the sunny weather! We don't have any big plans, no fun trips - but I am taking advantage of being at home for a change! Spring cleaning...yardwork...and a good book in my porch swing. That's my big Spring Break plans! Whatever yours are, I hope you enjoy it!

I'm not a big internet surfer, when I'm on my computer I'm usually working. But I do check a few blogs on a regular basis, and my sister has some awesome photos on her blog right now. She's has done several photo sessions with families and babies - they are just darling. Check it out at www.claycenterblooms.blogspot.com

Also wanted to Thank You for your thoughts and prayers this week during my Mom's surgery in Wichita. She is getting along good, after a few days of being loopy from pain medicine! I spent the day with her on Monday and she really perked up. I'm sure my Dad is getting claustrophobic from spending his days and nights in a tiny hospital room! He's ready to come home, and Mom will be soon. I had to cancel class last Friday and appreciate everyone's understanding. Keep praying for her, it will be a while before she's back to her old self!

Daddy Daughter Dancin'

2008-03-01T16:37:00.006-06:00

Here's some pics from last year's Daddy Daughter Dance!

Our Daddy Daughter Class will begin soon - it's one of the extra's we add to the Recital at the end of the year and is always so much fun. I just love watching the kids faces beam when they're dancing with their dads. Just another way you can create special memories with your special girl! (of course it could be a Grandad, Uncle or friend!)

AND this year we're also adding a Mommy-Daughter Dance, which should be lots of fun. And, yes, you can do both! (the kids have been asking me...)

In Clay Center, the classes will meet 4 times, on Monday nights, beginning March 10th and excluding Spring Break. Dads at 6:45, Moms at 7:15.

In Concordia, we'll meet on Thursdays beginning April 3rd. Dads at 7:15, Moms at 7:45. (sorry it's so late, but the schedule is so full! This is the only time to squeeze it in!)

There is no costume to buy, the kids will simply wear their recital costume. The class fee is $10/couple and I promise you will have a great time! Just look at your daughters face, beaming on the stage, and it will be worth every penny...

March 1st

2008-03-01T16:13:00.002-06:00

I look at the calendar and can't believe how fast this school year has gone. Recital for Clay Center is in only 6 weeks, and one of those weeks is Spring Break!

Jace is turning 10 in 2 days.

That is just not possible.

It's crazy how fast time flies, but when you're waiting for something it just can't go fast enough. Jace, for example, simply can't wait 3 more hours for his birthday party. I'll always remember my friend Robin asking me, a week before my wedding, if I felt like the next 5 days would be wasted. If I just wanted to skip over them and get on to the 'big day'.

And then there are days like this, when you're outside playing catch with the kids, and riding dirt bikes in the front yard, that you realize how important it is to cherish every moment. Before we know it, they're both going to be off chasing their dreams and Phil and I will sit on the porch staring at each other with nothing to talk about! OR I'll sit on the porch and watch him ride around the front yard on a dirt bike...

I don't really have much to say, just didn't want this blog to be one of those boring blogs that people quit checking because there's never anything new.

Speaking of good blogs...one my sister turned me on to last year is www.dooce.com. I check it frequently, she tells hilarious stories about her daughter and her 2 dogs!

So...get off the computer and tv, quit texting on your cell phone, and go see what your kids or mom or dad or sister or brother or neighbor is doing! Enjoy the day!!

Still a Cheerleader...at heart

2008-02-20T19:15:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago, I participated in the Elks 'Big Show', which is a fundraiser for the Elks Ladies organization. It's always so much fun, people really go out on a limb and make perfect fools of themselves! There's skits, dancing, singing, lip syncing and lots of fooling around! This year, we did 'Girlfriend', as a spoof on the Spartan cheerleaders from Saturday Night Live. I told the girls I would post a picture, so here it is! How do you like my hair bow!!

Later in the show, my friend Tracy Lebo (who is also the High School art teacher) painted this picture of the Statue of Liberty - but the amazing thing is, she did it in about 2 1/2 minutes! It was so awesome - the canvas was on a spinning base. She kept spinning it around, making slashes here and there. Then all at at once she spun it right side up and you could tell what it was! It was really a neat thing, I was so impressed! This photo was taken after the show, when they were auctioning it off. (it sold for $1000!)

Basketball Performance

2008-02-08T21:06:00.000-06:00

What a great job the 5th Grade Jazz Class did at the Tiger Basketball Game on Friday! I was so proud of them! They danced to 'How Does It Feel' with their "serious faces" :) which was also called a sour face backstage....I don't see anyone cracking a smile yet! We had fun with these outfits, all getting something a little different --- although I look at this picture and would swear they had on different tutus backstage!! black? white? hmmmm...

Thanks to Denise Reed for taking & sending these pictures! Great job girls!!!

GO CATS!

2008-01-30T21:28:00.000-06:00

K-State 84
KU 75
Go Cats!!

COSTUMES!

2008-01-14T20:40:00.000-06:00

Costumes are on order for the Spring Recital! It's always an exciting time, when I come home to find a big box of fun costumes on my porch! (then Jalyn gets to try them all on!!) Invoices will be coming home soon - I try to keep costs down, but each year they seem to increase a little. Your fundraising balances will help, and the remaining balance will be due by the end of January. I have to put everything on a credit card, so its really helpful if you can pay as soon as possible.

The costume shown is for the Tuesday 1st-2nd graders, Double Dutch Bus!

Welcome 2008!

2008-01-14T20:32:00.000-06:00

Phil "You really need to update your blog!"
Jolie "I don't have anything to say!"
Phil "But that's the point of a blog - you need to write stuff!"

So here I am, writing....stuff.

I liked this photo, it was a day or so after the ice storm when the sun was coming up behind this tree. I didn't alter the coloring, it was very pretty! We are still not finished picking up all these limbs! Guess that's the disadvantage of having a nice big area with lots of trees!!

I wanted to Congratulate the Clay Center girls on their Tiger Basketball Halftime Performance last Friday night! It went great - all the groups had good energy and smiles! I thought you were a hit! If anyone took a good picture, I would love to have it for the website. E-mail it to me!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-26T10:49:00.000-06:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas with your families, and a safe and Happy New Year!

My cousin's baby 'Tatum' in her fancy Christmas Dress!

SUPPERTIME!...PRESENTS!...SUGAR HIGH!!!

My Favorite Nutcracker Moments

2007-12-17T21:11:00.000-06:00

There were so many memorable moments, and looking at the photos is so much fun! Here are several of my favorites!

I was so impressed with this class. They worked hard, and learned this Christmas Eve scene very quickly! I was pleased with the amount of energy they had on stage! When I watched the DVD I couldn't believe how excited they were! They really pulled it off and I'm so proud of them!

I love it when they rock their dolls! And here's Kahlie...being ornery!

Where did everyone go? The pre-schoolers did remarkably well, for their on-stage debut! They weren't really sure what to do and when...but it didn't matter - they were just so cute!

What a beautiful picture! Katie was leaping for joy! And below, the girls knew just what to do on the 'bum'!

Roylynn always finds time to give the camera a big smile!

These dresses were so cute! The Christmas Trees really rocked! :)

I like this one of Allison saying 'shhh!' These girls were so cute - Diana Shaner made the dresses and bloomers...she always does a great job!

The sparkly hoops is another favorite if mine. I liked this picture with the tree in the background - and Allissa's great smile!

These mice really give me a hard time...but they're one of my favorite groups! They pulled of the mice dance perfectly, and have improved so much since last year!

Of course, the Skaters was a favorite of mine! In September, when I pulled out the box of skates...I think they all thought I was crazy! But I kept telling them - don't worry, before long you'll be a pro! And they did a great job! No spills or slips...no falls of the stage...and no one knocked over the Christmas Tree! Yes, these are the things that keep me awake at night!

I loved these flower costumes...and they remembered their routine so well!

What's so funny, Michaela???

The Jingle Bell Rock group really lit up the stage!

I always liked to watch Kaelyn's enthusiasm!

This photo of the Sing & Dance Class was kinda fuzzy on Jamie's upload. It was forwarded to me by Janelle, I think it's a good shot of the singers!

Katlynn and Katie...what beautiful ballerinas! I guess they really are listening in class.....

The Doll Dance was one of my favorites...

Ice Storm

2007-12-12T09:08:00.000-06:00

If I thought my trees needed trimmed after that Ryder truck...they definately need trimmed now! Here's more pictures of my poor trees, beat up by the ice storm. I am sure enjoying the break at home, though! I think we all needed a few days to relax!

Here's a few more...

The Nutcracker, 2007

2007-12-10T01:15:00.000-06:00

Despite the icy roads, we had a great crowd at the Brown Grand for The Nutcracker, 2007! I was so pleased and proud of each and every dancer...the show was just fantastic! Chandler Lamm (Clara) did a great job remembering her part, considering we didn't practice the 'extra scenes' until the week before! I also have to commend Briana Brewer for her patience with the Angels! I don't think she knew what she was getting into when I asked her to fill in as the Sugar Plum Fairy! I was impressed with every group, there isn't a single thing I would have changed!

I also want to Thank the parents who helped with tickets before the show, costume changes backstage, and especially those who acted in the party scene! Mike Lamm, Janelle Donovan, Ashlea Marsh, Miki Voelker, Allison Huff - Thank you! Amanda and Holly from the Brown Grand were also very helpful backstage with the balloons, curtain and music.

My sister took LOTS of photos during the Dress Rehearsal on Saturday and will be posting them soon. You will be able to view and purchase prints through Kodak. Thanks, Jamie for taking time out of your busy schedule to help with that!

Thanks also to Kathy Poore and Christy Leiszler for helping with decorations last week!

Again, I'm very proud of everyone, Thanks for helping make the show a great success!

-Jolie

OOPS!

2007-12-03T22:26:00.000-06:00

Our Little Caesars Delivery Man had a little trouble in my driveway last week! Good thing this branch needed trimming anyway!

He thought he could clear a low-hanging branch in my front yard, but as you can see, he was mistaken! Yes, the branch is lodged clear through the side of the trailer! Here's an 'after' picture of the hole!

Thanks to everyone who helped sort Pizza and Cookie Dough that day, and also in Concordia! It certainly makes the job go faster with helping hands!

Official Mascot

2007-12-03T22:17:00.000-06:00

It's Sammi Jo - the official Dance Company Mascot!
Sammi is turning one year old in December - and was enjoying her new sweater last weekend! Ballerina Dress photos to follow..... :) If she keeps practicing, she'll have her solo ready for Recital!

Ooops, all that dancing wore her out! Time for a nap!

Real Softball Players Wear Mini-Skirts

2007-11-27T12:49:00.000-06:00

The past few summers, The Dance Company has sponsored a City League Softball Team. Here are some shots of Jalyn, and the rest of the team at our end-of-year Pizza Party last summer.

Veterans Day, 2007

2007-11-26T08:02:00.000-06:00

This is from our Veterans Day performance, 2007. This is at the Methodist Church. The past few years a group of people have put on a 'USO Show' for Veterans, and we have been the dancing entertainment! There is also skits and singing.

Basketball in 2005

2007-11-26T08:00:00.000-06:00

I'm almost done cleaning out pictures from my computer! This one is from a Tiger Basketball Game in 2005. The ballet classes danced to 'In My Daughters Eyes'.

Competition 2004

2007-11-26T07:57:00.000-06:00

Here's another competition photo, from May of 2004. They got an extra award that day for being the cutest cowgirls! I think these girls were 2nd, 3rd & 4th graders here.

Competition 2007

2007-11-26T07:54:00.000-06:00

I always liked this picture at Competition in May of 2007. We were backstage, getting ready to go out for awards.

Halloween 2007

2007-11-25T20:49:00.000-06:00

The 5th Grade jazz class was dressed up for class on Halloween, 2007.

Concordia Studio...3rd times a charm??

2007-11-25T20:41:00.001-06:00

Here it is...Concordia Studio # 3. They say the 3rd time's a charm, I hope this is our home for awhile! We have moved into the old Hallmark building on 6th street. The location is great, and it seems we have found our 'place'!

I just love these pictures of the girls posing in the windows! These were taken at Summer Camp, they were trying to be manequins when people would walk by on the street! I don't think they fooled anyone!

Concordia Summer Camp, 2007

2007-11-25T20:30:00.000-06:00

Here are some fun photos from Summer Camp! We learned several dances that week, including a ballet dance, pom, jazz, hip hop and kick, plus Cheerleading and choreography. Remember that ugly blue carpet??

Concordia Studio...#2

2007-11-25T20:17:00.000-06:00

Here are some photos from our Concordia Studio, above The Camera and Eye. We were here from August of '06 to April of '07. I always wondered if our 'shadow dancer' was dancing at night with the mysterious ghost who was rumored to live in the building! I never caught a glimpse, but did hear lots of stories!

Wonder if this is still on the wall upstairs??

We had a 'fun day' on the last day of class, with roller skating, games and snacks. It was a fun atmoshpere, but I don't miss the winding staircase or propane heaters, how 'bout you?

Veterans Day, 2006

2007-11-25T20:14:00.000-06:00

Heres the group that danced on Veterans Day, 2006 at the USO Show. This was taken at the Methodist Church in Clay Center.

Piotique, 2006

2007-11-25T20:06:00.000-06:00

Here's some fun shots from Piotique 2006.

Nice hair girls.

The float is always fun!

Remember When?

2007-11-25T20:04:00.000-06:00

Remember when our Concordia Dance Studio was behind Curves? Here's some snapshots: Look how much they've changed!

After Harvest Festival 2007

2007-11-25T19:46:00.000-06:00

Here we are before performing at the After Harvest Festival in Clay Center, in July of 2007! It was a small group but they did a great job!

That's My Story

2007-11-25T19:35:00.000-06:00

In 2006 we performed 'That's My Story' at a Tiger Basketball Game. Here's some snapshots.

Welcome!

2007-11-25T17:59:00.000-06:00

I decided to change the 'photo album' page of the website by using a blog format. I hope this will showcase our photos a little better! I will post any dance photos from performance, class or birthdays - just send them to me! Enjoy...check often...and have a great day! -Jolie