No Braces

I took this photo of Derrik outside the orthodontist's office right after he got his braces off. The photo below it was taken right before he went in the office.

Kite Flying

We have a very large yard, but Devin chooses to fly his kite right next to all of the big trees around the border.

Mom helped reel in lots of string.

Devin discovered we had a kite eating tree. At least it was a small one.

It was a gorgeous day to be outdoors.

We took a walk up to the top of the big hill behind us where the wind was even stronger and there were no trees.

Lacrosse Season Starts

Derrik isn't able to play this season since his knee still can't run or jump so he keeps score, runs the clock and/or records statistics.

Devin has had some problems with pain in his knees and ankles, but it seems to be easing up now.

Devin is #5.

Knee Progress

Derrik can now bend his knee sufficiently to touch his heel to his behind when his muscles are good and warmed up.

Swimming Ends

Devin and some of his swimming buddies at the night of the sports awards.

The swim coach, Ms. Wimble, giving a speech.

The kids looking at their certificates.

Snow!

We got a real snow this winter! It was about seven inches and lasted a few days. Rocky was glad when the snow got trampled down so he could walk and potty without the snow being clear up on his belly.

Dwayne & the boys shoveled our long driveway. That gave them a good workout and they still had enough energy to go sledding & take a long walk.

Dwayne & Devin built a snowman that looked like the African women that wear neck rings. I brought out a hat & scarf to dress him.

Dwayne in action.

The patio is pretty, but not very inviting for a cookout.

College Visits

We spent winter break visiting colleges. The first one we went to was the University of Mary Washington right here in Fredericksburg. I didn't think to bring the camera and take a photo there.

VCU is in downtown Richmond. He liked that there was a Five Guys and Coldstone Creamery on the first floor of one of the residence halls. Bridgewater is in a little town called Bridgewater. It was by far the most favorite school we visited with all four of us.

Shenandoah University is in Winchester. It is renowned for its physical therapy program.

George Mason is in Fairfax. It is not quite as large as VCU, but it seemed bigger and more crowded.