Spring Training

Our lives are consumed with baseball once again. Between practice for both kids and games, we are entering into the season of no free nights. I am perpetually exhausted (mostly due my continuing to work out in the mornings..go me!) but I wouldn't have it any other way. I love our busy lives.

Aubrey had her first T-Ball game of the season tonight. And the Sparkles won! Aubrey played really well, scored three runs and even made an out at home plate. She had a blast and is so happy to be playing again. I am ready for a little warmer weather though...

Austin's team was in a tournament this past weekend. It was freezing cold, but the boys played really well and won their first three games before the tournament was cancelled due to weather. Secretly I was happy, I didn't have many more layers left that I could put on and still be able to move! And Austin complained that he wasn't going to be able to throw the ball with four shirts on...but he of course played amazing ball as usual.

Future Chef

I think I told you about Austin entering the Future Chef competition through his school and being chosen as a finalist. He was actually 1 of 8 chosen out of 50+ entries. This week was the big cook off where he got to make his salad for a panel of 3 judges against the other 7 finalists.

He was so nervous! And he was so amazing! Each of the kids had a helper in the kitchen, and most of the work was already done for him (all ingredients measured out, chopped, meat cooked). All he had to do was bake his shell and put it all together. There was a small hiccup with the shell (the oven wasn't pre-heated so took a little longer to bake which held up the judging) but he handled it well and did super. He then plated his salad and took it out to be judged, and then talked to the judges about his dish. I was so nervous for him but didn't need to be...he did so well!

He didn't win the whole thing (secretly I think he was relieved because the winner moves on to national level), but he got a goodie bag with some kitchen utensils and a $25 gift card to use as he pleases. He also got a cool chef jacket and hat. I asked him if he thought he might do it again next year, or if he thought it was a good experience but wouldn't do it again, he chose the latter. He said he is sticking with baseball.  Either way this momma couldn't be more proud.

Cooking

Bringing out his dish

My handsome chef with his Taco Salad

Yummy!!!

Talking to the judges.