You won't believe how quickly I came up with that acronym! (I'm embarassed...)
Tonight was Abby's first dance recital. It was in front of the movie theaters at the Capital mall. All day she said she wasn't going to "go up there". She fell asleep in the car on the drive there, and I think that was the boost she needed. It is a short performance (2 min 11 sec), so enjoy. We especially enjoyed her "directorial enhancements"! **
I can't; for the life of me; get the video to post here. So, go here to watch it on youtube***
Who says technology is taking over our kids' lives? I see at least one legitimate toy on this list...
I can't believe this little guy is now 9! This is Caleb on his 1st birthday. He still lights up the room with his smile, brings much joy to our home, and still makes a mess with cake! We love him so much and are blessed to have him in our family. 
I took this picture from a collage of pictures from my childhood. The only one I could find with my Grandpa Gilyeat in it. Even though this was roughly 35 years ago, he hadn't changed much my whole life. Except for losing the plaid pants and non-matching plaid jacket. He passed away this morning. It is bittersweet. He truggled with Alzheimer's for a while and decided last week he was done fighting - he stopped eating. I'm glad he didn't suffer long. And as the type-writer note says "We love Grandpa!" -April 
I have really learned a lot the past few days on the above topics. I thought I knew what they were, but had a heck of a time helping Caleb understand them. See, Caleb is getting ready for his Yellow Belt advancement in Tae kwon do. The school he is in "emphasizes the mental as well as physical aspects of the art". He is required to write a report on a different topic with each advancement and this time the question is "What are ethics and morality?" Heavy stuff for an almost 9 year old. Together we did some research on-line. Let me share with you what he came up with (80% his own words):
Ethics answers questions such as "What is right and wrong?" and "What is good and bad?". It can help me make informed decisions. An ethical person will make the right decision even if no one is looking.
A moral person has manners, character, proper behavior, and is honest. My morals have been taught to me by my parents, and other trusted adults. They help me make good decisions, respect others, and contribute to society.
I am really proud of him. He did such a good job putting into words what I struggled to do. Even though it is weighty material for him, he seems to grasp it well, and I hope he will remember his definitions as he goes through his life. I hope I can, too! - April
