Handmade by Request

Kelly saw this bookcase in a Pottery Barn Kids catalog, and thought it would be really cute for Mattey.




Problem: Bookcase from Pottery Barn Kids cost $350.
Solution: Buy $60 worth of materials and ask Dad to help make it.
Dad and I spent a couple nights working on it, and then Kelly applied the finishing touches.

Michiana Star Search

Today Amanda did something that most of us wouldn't even attempt to do. She performed a wonderful rendition of the Dixie Chicks song "Let it Rip", at the University Park Mall in front of a huge crowd of people.

The crowd cheered her on as she showed her enthusiasm for singing and dancing. The panel of judges spoke very highly of her and we thought she was on her way to being one of the eight finalists.



Unfortunately it wasn't meant to be this day. Even though she wasn't declared a finalist by the judges, she is definitely a winner in our hearts and minds.


Way to go Amanda!

Friday Night = Family Movie Night

A couple of weeks ago we started something new at our house. Friday nights are now set aside as family movie night. We try to find a movie that everyone will enjoy, which can be a chore. Add some popcorn, candy, and pop and all you're missing is a very large screen (maybe someday), an uncomfortable chair (no thanks), and lots of people talking (well sometimes).

Tonight's movie was Bedknobs and Broomsticks. Kind of slow at times but Megan seemed to like it.

Happy Birthday Amanda!

It's hard to believe that Amanda is 18 today. We took her a card and some $, which she said will be used to buy some new clothes at Gurnee Mills.



Thanks to Mom for the Cherry tort. Hope you weren't too upset that we cut it before you got a picture. :-)

First Picture of Cooper

We finally received the first pictures of our dog Cooper. Previously we had only seen litter pictures.
The breeder had this to say as to why she chose this specific dog for us:

"I've been through the ultimate test... a 2 year old girl! She carried me, followed me and played with me and I really enjoyed it all.
The Standiford family with 2 little girls will be such a delight for this boy. I know no fear and am very curious."

It sounds like he will fit right in with the girls.