Dad's 10th Anniversary

As we plan the 10th anniversary trail walk for Brian, its such a time of mixed emotions. Its hard raising his daughter and knowing she missed out on such an amazing human being and there is literally no way to explain it. But we soldier on and we have his 10th annual trail event coming up on Aug 4th. Brie and Grandpa Skipper walked his trail already and she got to see the dedication plaques along the way. 9 years ago during the 1st walk, I was swollen and miserable after suffering from ovarian hyper stimulation where Dr Anderson almost hospitalized me for. I remember being at the walk and looking 4 months pregnant. So technically Brie was with me the 1st time too :)

camp

Brie survived her first airplane trip to Colorado (solo) and loved it. She was there for 5 days and it was sunny, hot and dusty but she loved it. I got a great little letter from her in the mail saying she wants to come next year. She was in Cabin #2 and had really nice counselors. They all high-fives me when I told them I went to Knighthood I three years in a row back in the late 80s! Next year she will go for 2 weeks and come home with a charm bracelet XXOO

End of 2nd Grade

Brie is one week away from graduating from 2nd grade. She's enjoying school and is good at math but reading isn't much of an interest to her. Unlike her Mom! I used to re-read books over and over. She is great at wanting to complete her homework and she's very good at being enthusiastic about school projects. This year we did a paper doll celebrating her heritage so we did a German doll! This Summer is filled with Kids Camp,Geneva Glen camp in Colorado where mommy went and science camp. Brie is a thriving, beautiful young girl and I am so proud to call her my daughter!

Kitchen

Brie is growing up and realizing that her toys are better off being sold or donated. So far we have taken down her swing set, sold her mini trampoline and recently we gave her play kitchen to our housekeeper's daughter. Not only did this little girl get the kitchen but food, pots and pans and lots of fun accessories. I am very proud of Brie for giving it to a little girl who probably doesn't have a lot. XXOO

Tennis

Brie is taking tennis lessons! She is doing a 1/2 hr class through the City of Mission Viejo with Coach Mike. Really nice coach who is good with kids and teaching skills. The hand/eye coordination is a learned skill and she's doing pretty good. Starting May 1st, Brie and I will officially become members of the MV Country Club! I am excited to rent a ball machine and maybe join a league or two. Love-Love!

Skiing

Brie went to her 1st full day of ski lessons last weekend. Prior, she was skiing between people's legs and not learning how to stop. So this was good for her. She struggled and was put back in an easier group which I know was frustrating but by the end of the day she was riding the chairlift (3x!) and skiing really well. She even said her boots and skis "felt perfect" and what child says that??

election

I'm thankful Brie is not able to understand the true meaning of this election. Today, after a lovely inauguration that was held with tradition, class and dignity, I saw a display of women marching, writing terrible things on signs. I could go on… I am not on a rampage to turn my little sweetheart into a conservative but she will not play a victim in society. She has every opportunity a man has in this world. Brie, if you are reading this someday, just know that you are not being pushed down by men…or an elected official. Never will you dumb yourself down to make a point. You will make your point by your perseverance and sheer will. I love you Brie. You are your own destiny. Love, Mommy