February Frenzy (part 1)

February in the Allen household was busy! Jim came to visit for two weeks and was able to help Chris with quite a bit of work on a 79 Jeep he is restoring. Also during the month, Ashleigh and I were able to go shopping together. We had so much fun! We went to stores that sold scrubs, to stores that sold clothes, to "girly" stores with scents and undergarments,  to the bookstore, and food ! We shopped at Hot Topic and while there we  ohhhed and ahhhed over Harry Potter, The Little Mermaid, Lilo and Stitch, Wonder Woman, and so much more. We laughed, talked, and Ashleigh was excited about her new items, and a first occurred-she bought nothing at the bookstore (regretfully).  

Valentine's Day and the boys are anxiously writing out their Valentines for their classmates.

 At school, Austin and I participated in Jump Rope for Heart and I received a special surprise from Chris-lunch (which was breakfast from Chick-Fil-A) and sweet treats. My students were also generous and loving.

 Our church completed a five-week season of renewal. During this time, our church family and friends were rethinking our passions and priorities and committing to the transforming Grace of God's kingdom. What an exciting time for us to grow in God's love as our church grows too.

Choirs and DC

Ashleigh and other members of the high school choirs were lucky to spend a couple of days in Washington DC. I was excited to be able to go also. We were able to tour many National Monuments and explore.  While Ashleigh has been to Washington DC (with a school group in 8th grade), this was my first visit to Washington DC. 

Our first day began with a stop at the White House.

Lincoln Memorial on the first night-

Washinton Monument and Capitol

Ashleigh's signature pose on "holding" buildings and structures in the palm of her hand.

The choir sang at the National Cathedral and Ashleigh had a solo too. (I was recording during the singing, but my phone's data became "filled" during the song with her solo. However, I think it was a glitch because it worked after that perfectly. Anyway-It was recorded by the choirs and I will try to download and upload here.)
Here is an attempt link: National Cathedral Her solo is the next to last song.

Ashleigh as President