Emi's Dance Recital

Quick trip to Denver for Emi's dance recital 

and to give a Christmas hug to Marty and Lizzie before we leave on vacation

and miss them over the holidays.

(Also, Marty just had surgery to open his blocked sinuses and fix a deviated septum.

He's healing well with no pain, just not able to smile well.

We hope he'll be able to breathe better and be free from chronic post nasal drip.

My mama heart was happy to get to see him and hug him in person post-surgery.

I was about to say I should learn to "get over that mama need,"

but actually, I wouldn't want my mom to ever stop needing to give me a hug.

Moms will always have a part of our hearts attached to our kiddos, no matter how old they are.

Mark, Mary Ellen and Erika were in Denver as well 

and we loved spending time with them as well.

And once again Dan and I commented how grateful we are for amazing in-laws for our kids.

The cutest dancers! Emi loved showing us her twirl before and after the performance.

In dress rehearsals she didn't want to be on stage without her mom.

But she was so brave today!

We had brats and spatzle at the Christkindlmarket downtown after Emi's recital.

Relaxed during her nap and a delicious dinner to celebrate Lizzie's birthday at Seasons 52.

This is a HOUSE near Marty & Lizzie.

The decorations were off the charts!

When we arrived home, it felt like Christmas!