Upward Cheerleading 2014

Kate decided she wanted to try cheerleading this winter. One of the awesome perks Brett & I have discovered since moving to DSM is the huge variety of opportunities for kids.  You name it and there's usually an organization or league that has what you are looking for!   Some of our friends recommended trying the Upward league and we are so glad we did! 

Kate was on the 1st-2nd grade cheerleading team.  Her squad's name was "Glitter"  Her squad practiced once a week cheered every Saturday at  the 1st-2nd grade basketball game for 8 weeks.  

Most of the coaches for the teams were Drake students.  Kate's coach Tiffany was super sweet and great at teaching the cheers and dances to the girls. 

Aside from have a blast of a time,  I was so happy to see Kate gain confidence in front of a crowd.  Between Kate and Will, Kate is definitely my more reserved child.  She always needs some time to get comfortable with a new environment before opening herself up.  I explained that a cheerleader has to be excited and cheer loudly to teach all the spectators the cheers.  As expected she was pretty nervous the first game, but by round 2 she cheered loudly with a BIG smile on her face!!  
Way to Go Kate!!!!

Papa and Nana's Birthdays!

We celebrated Papa's birthday in Williamsburg this year.  Usually my parents venture to Des Moines to celebrate, but this year we were able to go to their house instead.

We made him a picture album full of pictures from our Florida trip in November.  Like most Nanas and Papas, they are hard to buy for as they have everything they could possibly need.  So I try to always lean toward the sentimental side and usually come out a winner.

Papa LOVES custard pie for his special dessert.  And somehow he has trained Kate to love it as well.  The rest of us think it's okay, but those 2 just LOVE it.

Make a wish Papa!!

And then a few weeks later we celebrated Nana's birthday at our house.  We cooked her a yummy dinner and picked up some pastries from the local Bake Shoppe, one of her favorites.

I wonder at what age the kids won't want to help Nana blow out her candles?  A little spit never hurt anyone, right!!
Happy Birthday to the best Mom and Dad I could ever ask for!  We wish you a fun and healthy year ahead!