Beyond Live Band Concert

Here is proof that we do indeed do other things besides just focus on Malachi and Elijah! The problem is that the photographer in the family does spend lots of time with the two boys, so you don't get to see as many pictures of what Nate does a lot. Also there are many things that you can't photograph, like conversations with people and other daily tasks that aren't very unique for a photo. Finally, there are some things that we have done often in the last five-six years, so you've already seen lots of pictures of those (whereas the boys are always growing and changing!).

All these disclaimers aside, I am pleased to say that I was finally able to attend Nate's concert! My sweet friend, Rachel, offered to help with the boys so I could go alone. It was my first time to leave Malachi at night alone, but he slept just fine while I sat in a chair in the auditorium without moving for more than an hour! This is a contrast to the wiggling, moving, pacing, in-and-out that I normally do with active ones.

The opening of the concert, "Beyond Live", was thrilling and excellent. It was Nate's high school jazz band class (I'd venture to say it is his favorite, if there are allowed to be favorites). I think he likes it especially because he gets to join them in playing with his trumpet! I love watching Nate play trumpet and still swoon when I realize that this hottie is my husband! I tried to experiment more with my camera settings to give you the feel to the lights and excitement of the night.

Also about this special group-- three of the guys were my 6th and 7th grade boys when I was teaching several years ago. Now they are in 10th grade and are quality, godly young men--very talented and respectful. It is a huge blessing to see them grow, almost like my own sons, and to now have my husband investing lots of time in them too...so their discipleship continues on and on. We love our roles here! Thank you, Lord!!

I have to get close-ups of this teacher. What a fun guy! Of course all the students up there had shades on (how could they read the music?), but I have a little camera bias.

A lot more formal here, I like how this high school ensemble is standing. More than that, I love to actually know these students and to remember when Mr. Becker taught them as beginners in middle school. I remember that the trumpet-player there was too cool for band in 7th grade, but now there he is in high school still playing and doing a great job! It is fun to see their growth.

We get to the younger students, but the music was quite good. I was pleased to hear the sound with such a blended mix. They are no longer beginners, so it is a reward to hear their skills developing more.

This picture gives you the feel of a great concert! I want you to notice several things here. First, the stage--a huge blessing! I remember doing these concerts on the covered court with hand-made wooden platforms. Now we have been blessed with lights, a great sound system and notice above the stage the sound panels and also curtains. Again, Thank you God!! What provisions! I remember when Nate was teaching music in a little classroom by the playground with only a few drumsticks and drum pads available. Now, look at all these instruments and all that we have to use. Yes, this picture captures many answered prayers! Praise God, from whom all blessings flow!

Very full of energy and joy! The concert is completed--all went well! It was the best one I have heard yet. I was so glad to have been able to sit and enjoy the evening! Well, done, students! We are thankful also for such great parental support. It makes a huge difference.

Here is my special pen pal from the 4th grade class, Jasmine. She was at the concert thinking about how excited she is to get to join band next year in 5th grade! I was glad to get a picture with her (thanks, Jasmine!)

Three totally unrelated pictures, but related to my day...

On that same morning of the concert I was busy getting ready for Elijah's birthday. Here is the cake I decorated (actually brownies--they are much more yummy!). Do you recognize what it is supposed to be? I hope you guessed "swimming pool" because that is the theme. We went to the waterslides, so I tried to create a home-made cake-topper out of straws, toothpicks, cardboard and foil. Does it look like a waterslide and a pool?

The extras were pre-sliced with little turtles on top. Elijah loves turtles and can identify the letter "T" for turtle (from our Noah song "Going A-Z with Noah"). Notice the number 2--he is now 2 years old!

A close-up. Don't you just want to pick that up and eat one (or two!). Yum!