Budding Musicians and other talents

Now that Shaun's career has taken off, it seemed like the right time to start thinking about music lessons for the girls. We inherited a free piano last year and we finally got around to having someone come out and tune it. Amelia started piano lessons about a month ago and she's doing a great job. Ella on the other hand has been drawn to the guitar, so she started taking lessons about a month ago as well. Now our home is alive with the sound of music... always... no seriously, always. Okay, so it can get a little crazy at times, but I seriously love to see them learning and developing talents. There's nothing that brings me greater joy. Shaun has been learning along with Ella so sometimes they practice together. We were given Shaun's guitar by a friend who was moving and we are currently renting Ella's guitar. 

I still need to get a photo of Amelia at the piano, but I'm happy to report that they are both thrilled to be doing different instruments. The same can be said with their other hobbies. Amelia is quite athletic and enjoys running, basketball and soccer. Soccer season has recently started back up and she's thrilled. She also joined the running club at school. 

And here's a picture from her first soccer game.

Ella took the picture so we got more field than we did Amelia but that's okay. 

And when it comes to sports our Ella is quite talented as well, but she's more of a solo sport person. She's been horse back riding since the fall and is progressing nicely with her lessons. I think being with the horses is also therapeutic for her to some extent. Too bad her mother doesn't really know a thing about horses, but I did go with her to her last lesson (papa has been taking her up until now), and it was great to see her on Dottie, the horse she typically rides. 

I guess you could say I'm very proud of these guys. Not to mention they are both on the honor roll at school, and Amelia received a couple of other accolades including receiving the "heart of kindness " award in her class, which makes me proudest of all. I tell them more than anything I want them to 

1. work hard 

And

2. Be kind
 I often feel like I'm completely messing up as a mom, but some moments I feel like all of these life lessons are starting to sink in, and these two are becoming beautiful and lovely young ladies. At least some of the time. And I'll take sometimes. 

Amelia with Liam during her award ceremony 3rd nine weeks.