2024 Freshman Winter Formal

 Freshman Year Winter Formal. 

Ava stayed true to herself but stepped outside the comfort zone. Just a little. 

It was FREEZING that day, so I got special permission from OC (my workplace) to take photos indoors with cool backdrops. 

We grabbed the posse and they all looked stunning!

Peep the shoes. Pink. 

After photos, we headed to Poco Piatti for dinner. 

I dropped the girls off at the dance and took Addy out for ice cream. 

Back to pick them up at 11 for a sleepover where they got a hold of my camera. 

They are my favorite. 

But these are the ones I really love. 

The next morning....

Along with the pile of goods on my table. 

Bobby Pins, bands, and a fake fingernail.

Ava and I put on a little spread and they off went home to sleep the day away. 

Addy's Sixth Grade Basketball

Addy decided to try her hand at basketball this year. She loved it!!! 

She had Coach Wasserman, who was Ava's 8th Grade Coach, so he is well loved by the Houghtaling's! 

They practiced 2 days a week and had games on Saturday. 

They never won until the very last game! It was so adorable and a standing joke with everyone. 

But she truly loved and can't wait for next year! We'll see if she still loves it. That's going to be big girl basketball. 

Stay tuned! 

Also, this photo. This girl looks mean as vinegar and my sweet little Addycakes is defending HARD.

A big shoutout to our cheering section each week!

Cheer Season 2023-2024

 Addycake's Cheer season has come to an end. 

Not just any end. The end of an era. 

Addy started this program when she was fresh from China at the ripe age of 4. 

She has grown so so much! The confidence, the art of cheer itself, the happiness...she has conquered it all. 

They didn't win first place this season, but took home a couple of 2nd place. 

But each week she walked away with a GIANT smile. 

That's all the matters. 

I have nothing but the utmost respect and love with her coaches. 

What true role models for these girls!! 

We had friends come and cheer us on too!

Their official last practice was very emotional. 

The 6th graders led the stretches, posed for photos and practiced stunting.

We finished off the season with the Genoa Cheer Showcase followed by the Year End Banquet.

The banquet was first and whoa, were there tears. The coaches, the parents and even a few of the girls!

One of the sweet girls brought the cutest little gifts for the girls.

Then we headed to the gym where 172 cheerleaders took the floor. And my girl performed for the last time with Genoa Biddy Cheer. 

Thanks to those who came and supported!

And a little group photo of the Genoa Cheer Squads. 

Such a sweet end to a wonderful time of our lives.