why I'm a mom

Why become a mother?  Clearly, to score some cards and crafty gifts from the kids every year on Mother's Day.  Well, that, and to share my house with this bunch of occasionally grouchy, hilarious, smelly, smart, goofy, cute, affectionate, and energetic people.  Sunday was a nice day.  We had brunch at church, then meandered around Bachman's for a while, and later we went on a family bike ride - our first official one as a family of six.  Nate and I recently caved and bought new adult bikes after giving up on finding decent ones at garage sales. 

Last week, Michael had his 5th grade spring band concert.  He looked all grown up in his white dress shirt and black pants.  It's still a tough stretch for his arm to reach the notes at the end of the slide, though.  But he'll grow into it eventually.

Also, remember this freaky thing?  The 5th graders worked on their masks for several months and Michael just brought the finished product home.

I guess it'll help decorate his room now.  Or he can wear it to a Mardi Gras parade.  Or to look in the neighbors' windows at night.