Reopening, Retiring, and Recital

I know a couple weeks have passed since the last post, but we haven't done much the last couple of weekends so you haven't missed much.  Last weekend was the opening ceremony of the Trolley Trail in our neighborhood (despite the fact that we've been enjoying the trail for a year now).  The Trolley Trail is a walkway/bike path through our neighborhood on what used to be the old trolley line from Portland to Oregon City to Lake Oswego.  Mason's friend Aiden was spending the day with us that Saturday so Luis took Mason and Aiden to the ceremony while Siena and I were at dance class.

The boys really look to be enjoying the old trolley, especially with their vintage Capri Sun's.

This is along the Trolley Trail (trail head is between the 2 large stones behind Aiden).  The PTA (of which Luis is the treasurer) donated funds toward the blocks that the boys are standing in front which are to be a permanent fixture along the trail.  This is actually a nice, paved, flat trail that is perfect for jogging, walking, and bike riding.

Yesterday we went to the retirement party of my kindergarten teacher Mary Bell.  Most people aren't still in touch with their kindergarten teachers.  However, since Mrs. Bell happens to be the mother of my best friend Sarah, I see my kindergarten teacher fairly regularly.  Anyway, after 42 years of teachers, Mrs. Bell is finally ready to hang up the chalk.

Siena at the party enjoying a strawberry.

I wasn't planning to speak at this event.  They invited people up though and after a nudge or two from Luis, I thought it might not hurt if one of her former students said something.

I don't have many memories from kindergarten, but I do recall getting a sliver one day at recess and Mrs. Bell expertly taking it out.

Fast forward to high school, where at the beginning of our junior year at Tualatin, Sarah and I got to be friends.  Later that spring, she invited me to her house for a sleep over.  I saw her mom, thought she looked a little familiar, but didn't really think much of it.  Two weeks later, it hit me!  Mrs. Bell...teacher...wait!  Sarah's mom is my kindergarten teacher!  She didn't remember me either but with 30 kids a year for as many years as she's taught, I didn't expect her to.

I went on many family trips with the Bells over the years, usually over the 4th of July down to Mary's family's cabin.  On one such trip, I got a sliver in my foot.  And of course, who helped me to get it out but Mrs. Bell!

I'm not normally fond of getting up and speaking in front of people, but Ma Bell is pretty special so it was worth it.

Today was Siena's dance recital was today.  She did amazing!  This is her 5th recital and it shows - she's looking like a little pro.  Below are some shots I took at the dress rehearsal.  Live footage of her 2 performances are below as well.

First position.

Shakin' it.

Go Nannies!

Drama shot.

This is "Love Song". Siena is the 4th dancer from the left.
 This is "Never Grow Up". Siena is again the 4th dancer from the left in the back row (to start).