Palm Springs getaway

 You can have your amusement parks. I want to be amused by Mother Nature! Mitch and I had a quick getaway this weekend. We spent most of it in the great outdoors. We took the Palm Springs Aerial Tram up to San Jacinto State Park. For the first time in my life we had to check in with the ranger and sign paperwork with permission to go off trail to find the hidden lake…they gave us “directions” that included taking pictures of landmarks from their book. We had no trouble finding our way, and just past the Hidden lake was an amazing view. Then we finished the loop, nearly 5.5 miles done at 8500 feet elevation. The tram to the top was pretty cool, too. It had a rotating floor so you saw all the views. 

We definitely got some “R & R” in at the Rowan and enjoyed some great restaurants! 

The Graduate

 To say that Cross Middle School was good to Kiersten would be an understatement. Courageous Ram Award, Rotary Honors Award, Outstanding Advanced Band Award, A+ Spanish Student Award, WEB leader and more. Can’t wait to see her tackle High School. She even let me get a picture with her principal and favorite counselor, and one of her greatest cheerleaders and mentors, Mrs. Taylor. Peace out Cross Middle School…it’s good to be a Dorado. 

How sweet it is!

It was quite a week celebrating Leah’s sweet 16!!! We had our traditional ice cream cone, she got the keys to her new car and passed her driving test with no trouble at all. Be safe out there, kid…love ya! 

An Evening in Paris

 This year went by so fast!!! Only 4 more days of Bug going to school with me everyday. This week she will promote from Middle School to CDO High School…she’s ready…I am not. But first, an evening in Paris with friends to celebrate the end of 8th grade! And doesn’t everyone take a picture with their favorite Geometry teacher?!?! 

The Violinist

And to round out an exciting day…

Back in February Leah’s orchestra instructor asked me if he could nominate her for an award with the local Elks Club. Today she was honored to be awarded a brand new violin. Wow!! She’s thrilled with her new instrument. A big thank you to all the people that have helped her along the way. 

Confirmation Sunday

 This girl is feeling all the love and support of her family today, as she was confirmed. We’re fortunate that so many could be here to celebrate. To quote Bruno Mars, feeling #blessed! Congratulations, Kiersten!