Happiness Is Singing Together

What a happy night this was... Our nephew Jack performed with his 4th grade class at the Village Theatre.  It was about celebrating Michigan with song, movement, and instruments.  (Believe it or not, we learned quite a few things about our State from these smart fourth graders. : )  Jack and his class were absolutely wonderful.  They sure know how to entertain an audience.

first time for me at this quaint village

great looking theater

let the show begin...

here's jack singing and holding a prop

here he is dancing

he was quite the perfomer

Happiness is singing together when day is through,

and happiness is those who sing with you.

Happiness is morning and evening,

daytime and nighttime too.

For happiness is anyone and anything at all

that's loved by you.

Charlie Brown

with his class friends

with lolo, lola, and sister sophie 

with musical director, mrs. borke

with his proud mommy

and two of his biggest fans

Wanna see more of his performance?  Visit Ate Jenn's blog at Life's Moments.  You're sure to enjoy a video clip of Jack's dance routine.     

Sweet Simple Things

It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.

Laura Ingalls Wilder

My family and friends are the best a girl could ever wish for.  I am one to never expect anything as God surprises me everyday with his countless blessings.  So, when I am showered with gifts, loving birthday greetings, hugs, and kisses, my heart overflows with joy and gratefulness.  Thank you to all of you who took a moment of your time to remember me on my birthday.  You all make up the sweet simple things of my life.

Chicago 10:30 p.m. 11:00 p.m.

It is so great to have the windy city nearby, well three and a half hours nearby. After ending my Friday at the office, we drove to Chicago to spend Saturday with one of our dear friends, Ameet. (You guys remember Ameet right? : ) We made a date for my birthday when he was last in town. I'm glad I took him up on it because it was one fun 24 hour getaway...

from the skyway to lake drive to canal street

you can't get lost finding his place

it's that easy

but we took the local way instead of the express way

so we got a little lost and took a detour

ameet's place

not bad, not bad at all

talk about a room with a view

one incredible view

from his balcony

we just had a few minutes to take in the gorgeous city lights

before we were wisked away for a night into town

(i knew i should've brought a cocktail dress!)

cheers! i'm 35!

Chicago 11:00 p.m. - 4:00 a.m.

The night we partied until dawn... The night began at Japonais with Ameet and friends.  I can see why this is a favorite hotspot in town with its vogue design and relaxing riverwalk cabanas.  It was really sweet of Ameet to have made plans.  We made new friends-- Shawei, Mona, and Mark.  We couldn't ask for a more wonderful company.  

I should mention Japonais was the starting point of this late night escapade.  Don't ask me were we ended.  All I can say is that hubby and I still have the energy to dance the night away. LOL!  

Chicago 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

The morning after... Age really does remind you when you've partied a little more that you should. It was not the bustling city noise that woke us up, must've been the automatic alarm that alerts us ol' folks that it's morning! Boy, it felt painful. : )

one look at the view during the day

and we were ready to start again

wow, if i take the train next time

i just have to cross the street to get to Ameet's

what does he have planned next for us?

something romantic-- a boat ride through the city...

the building below to the left is his place

yes, it was seen during the tour

very impressive

A walk in the city for a little window shopping, market (I fell in love with Fox & Obel, a gourmet market filled with goods from France. It feels and looks like the supermarket in Paris.), and lunch at a local pub. As for my birthday cake, a fancy red velvet cupcake from Fox & Obel will do. Sorry there's no photo. I devoured it!

last stop of the day, Vosges the home of exotic chocolates

a sweet way to end our 24 hour getaway.

Ameet: Thank you for one fabulous celebration!  Patrick and I continue to be thankful for your lifelong  friendship.  We truly appreciate how much care you put into planning our day together.  We miss you and look forward to seeing you again soon!