Today was the first competition of Brinley's season, and they did so well! Their Jazz routine, Box of Secrets, scored High Gold and 4th place overall.
Their Hip Hop number, Rosie, also scored High Gold and 2nd overall. It also earned a combined Judge's Choice award, which is special because all 4 judges had to agree that it was their favorite and deserved an additional award (and they only give out 2 of those)!
Today we had to say goodbye to Rebel, our best little snuggle buddy for almost 11 years. His health had started declining back in early November, and had gotten significantly worse over the last week or two. It felt like his little body was just shutting down, so after 2 rough days, we decided it was time to let him go.
Rebel was the best company for me when I was sick a few years ago- he always knew when I didn't feel good, or was recovering from a procedure, and he would always snuggle up close and stare into my eyes. I think it was his way of checking on me. He was the best little heater, loved to nest into blankets and coats or anything he could find, loved to eat cheese, loved chasing squirrels- and he almost got them every time! He loved going for walks and rides, and loved the dog park, but only if he got to be in the big dog side. He loved to sit behind me on my office chair while I worked, and steal snacks off the desk. He loved sleeping with the kids, and he would go back to bed with them when he could. He absolutely loved digging and laying in the sand, and he loved walking in the river. He could always be found napping in a sunny spot, and he loved to sit on patio chairs like he was people. Teaching him how to sneeze on command will forever be one of my greatest accomplishments, and the best party trick ever! I'm sure going to miss him.
Tonight Brinley's school held a winter dance. She looked beautiful and had a great time, and especially loved going to Chick fil A after for a late dinner. As part of the yearbook crew, she was also able to take a ton of photos that she'll be able to make a spread in the book with.
Tonight I was able to take Brinley to see The Offspring in concert, and we both had a great time! Her smile was so huge, and she was so excited to get a poster for her room. We laughed and sang our hearts out, and we learned we don't like floor seats, since we're both too short to see over people. But overall it was so much fun!
It seems to crazy to think that Tristan is 25 today, but time has certainly flown by! It has been a joy and a privilege to watch him grow into an awesome human, and a great son. He truly cares about those around him, and is always thinking of nice things to do for others. He has really been loving his time in Belgium, and even though it's hard to have him so far away, we're so proud of him and everything that he is accomplishing! He's been able to travel and see over a dozen countries since he's been there, and Cahl and I are super excited to be able to go and visit him later this spring, and do some sightseeing with him.
