Daddy's New Titles

Basketball season has come to an end for the Kennedys. And we loved every minute! Eli's last practice was on the 15th, and his coach planned a celebration with cupcakes and trophies. All four of us went for the last practice, and it was so cute to see Eli in his oversized jersey with his personalized trophy. A bonus for Emmy was playing with her friend Casey, who was also there for her little brother's practice. In addition to Eli's season wrapping up, the Lady Cardinals had their last game today. On the Tuesday before, we had a pizza party for the team. Coach Boomer printed certificates for everyone, even Coach Buzz. It was a sweet celebration for these girls who have grown so much over the season. At the last game, Emmy continued her strong presence on defense and her quick instinct for getting the ball. She had a key basket in the final period to take the Cardinals up by 2. In the last seconds the other team made a shot, ending the game in a tie. It was exciting! The Cardinals finished the season 5-2-1. A big thank you to Uncle Zack for so many action shots from the last game. We will certainly miss the routine of our Saturdays this winter, but with warmer weather ahead, I know our weekends will soon fill up with other activities. I'm glad that we are closing out basketball with so many good memories. 

Coach Buzz, Brianna, Brinkley, Emerson P., Emerson K., Raelyn, Avery, Coach Boomer

Last Sunday, Boomer and I had a delayed Valentine's date, and we had the best time. I'm not too picky about celebrating the holiday on the exact day; I am always content to get any one-on-one time with my hubby, especially when it includes a delicious meal. We ate at DiValletta in Greensboro, and I had the Cajun Shrimp Pasta and Boomer had the rib-eye. For dessert, we had just enough room for a slice of red velvet cheesecake.  

Triad was closed on Friday, the 16th and Monday, the 19th for Teacher Workdays. When Triad is closed, it also means no after-school for Emmy. We are so grateful to Grammy and Grandpa for helping with childcare on these two days. They divided the tasks of picking up Emmy and also entertaining Eli. We are so blessed to have their help. 

I was back on Mommy duty on Monday evening, and I was solo through Tuesday, as Boomer had his annual NCACTE Spring Admin Conference. Luckily I managed to get both kids to school on time, and I held down the fort, even if that meant making a few lenient decisions (in the form of a footlong cookie!) Emmy has really taken off with her reading and writing. They are having a reading challenge at her school, and so during any spare minute, you will find her with her nose in a book. She asked me to take the picture of her reading while I was cutting her fingernails - she said it looked like she was at the spa :) Eli is becoming more independent too. He has started to dress himself in the mornings (even if that means having his pants on backwards!) 

I have to end with some bragging on my husband. I am so proud of him, I could just burst! At his conference last week, Boomer was selected as the NORTH CAROLINA CAREER & TECHNICAL ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR! To receive this honor at the state level is huge! Boomer was recognized last summer as the Piedmont Triad CTE Director of the Year, and then in January, he had to submit a portfolio for consideration at the state level. The final stage of the process included an interview with the eight regional candidates, and it was some tough competition. I see the time and passion that Boomer puts into his work, and I am so happy that he could be recognized by others in this way. Oh, and I have to mention that prior to this award, Boomer was promoted to ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT of Yadkin County Schools. We are thankful to Dr. Martin and the School Board for continuing to value Boomer. He leads with humility, compassion, knowledge, and selflessness. He has had a few other exciting opportunities presented to him, and he has carefully weighed each professional step he takes. I'm so proud of him for the ways he juggles work and home. At home, he is still Daddy - doing the laundry, reading books, coaching basketball, covering bath time, loading up the car, unloading the dishwasher, tackling and tickling, and keeping us laughing. Even with all the new titles, the one he wears the best is Daddy. (....but Assistant Superintendent has a nice ring to it!)       

Happy Valentine's Day!

We continued our annual photo shoot, a tradition that started on Emmy's very first Valentine's Day. To think that back in 2017, the sign was the same size as she was! That precious baby has grown into a beautiful little girl who sure loves her Daddy!

  

The kids dressed in their red and pink today, and they came home with a haul of treats and trinkets. I received some gifts too: flowers from Boomer and my favorite candy from Emmy and Eli. Boomer surprised me yet again this year, and I was extra impressed that he delivered the flowers to the correct school. Since I bounce back and forth between Forbush and Starmount, it can be tricky to keep up with my location. He sure is a keeper!

Over the weekend on Saturday, the 10th, Emmy and Boomer went to the Kernersville Daddy Daughter Dance. Earlier that day, Emmy had a basketball game and score two baskets, plus had several rebounds and defensive steals. After a little bit of rest time, she swapped her jersey for a pretty pink dress. Whether she is hustling on the court or dancing to Taylor Swift, this girl can do it all! Emmy loved wearing eyeliner and "spider eyes" aka mascara. The dance was at Legacy Stables in Winston, and the theme was Barbieland. Of course that meant all the pink! Emmy and Boomer saw several friends they knew and got a lot of neat swag in their goodie bags. It sure is sweet to see them dressed up and going out on a 'date.' Daddy has set the bar high for any future suitors!