I was skeptical. I figured that Josh would go to the recital but not play. He is so shy about being in front of people that I just wasn't planning to push this issue. But he attended the piano master class and concert prep on Saturday and he played, albeit hesitantly, but he did it. So, today we got him ready. He was excited. All day he asked when it would be time to go. When I asked him last night how he would feel walking up to the piano, he said, "Brave." When I asked him today he said, "Good."
We had to stop at Target for 'dress shoes' before heading to the church where the recital would be performed. We had plenty of time. Evelyn, we dropped off to a friend on the way over. Mira came along and was very well behaved. We even picked up a great hat when we got the shoes.
As soon as we arrived, Josh was asked to sit with his classmates. He started to hesitate and so I excused myself to the 'bathroom' with Mira. Once it was Josh, Mrs. Yeakel and Daddy he went along and sat up front without a problem. He behaved very well and once the concert started, he was the first to play.
I never thought that 'Yankee Doodle' would bring tears to my eyes but it did. To see him, so small sitting at that baby grand piano; To know just what effort he had to put forth and the anxiety he overcame to sit there in front of all those people; To understand that this step of performing in front of people could open other doors for him; made the moment so much sweeter.
After his piece, the rest of the students played in turn including a graduating senior as the last performer. It was a lovely concert. We enjoyed cookies and other snacks afterwards and Josh hung out with his friends Yana and Val.
Bella Notte.
This year we made the most applesauce we have ever made and it was all with the help of two of my elves. I can process half a bushel of apples in about two hours time. 
First we wash and cut the apples into pieces. Second, we threw them in a big pot with about 4 cups of water. Turn on the stove and bring the pot up to boiling. 
When the apples are good and squishy it is time to run them through the Squeezo Strainer. This contraption hasn't changed much in at least 50 years time. I use one that my parents purchased in the 70's. No peeling or other prep is required on the apples because seeds, skins and other bits are filtered out and only the sauce remains. 
Even the girls can help me move the apples through the strainer. 
The finished result is happy kiddos and quarts of fresh hot applesauce. I can the majority of it for winter but we do eat some hot out of the strainer. Yum!
