May 18, 2019 Ode to Dora

Saturday, May 18, 2019
Happy 90th Birthday to you, Dora!

It's been a long time since I've known a 90 yr old that is as happy, healthy, vibrant, and excited about life, as Dora.
Here she is with her 3 incredible children...... Pam Cook, Cindy Robbins Steger, and William Robbins.👇👇👇

Pam(on the far left) is the mother of 3 adult children.... Jay Cook, Erin Burks, and Stephanie Sharpley. Stephanie is married to our son, Walter....... so......... that kinda makes us related😀😀😀.
We were honored to attend the festivities at Brandon Oaks Retirement Community.
Dora is loved by all of the residents!

Her family surprised her from Texas, Williamsburg VA, Smith Mountain Lake, Northern Virginia and more! Grandchildren and great-grandchildren were all a part of the celebration!

Mark Campbell, Owner of Cuts Creative Florist furnished the over-the-top floral arrangements!

Hands-down FAVORITE was the FLOWER CAKE!

The evening meal at Coach & Four was fabulous.

Next time, could we have dessert first????
The baked Alaska was a hit!

The following morning, those that were available, attended breakfast at the  Roanoker Restaurant
What a crew!

Here's a few fun facts and some wise words!

Thanks again for including us in the 90th Birthday celebration for Dora.

May 17, 2019 Wyatt~ End.Of.Year.Celebration.

May 17, 2019
"The child has a mind able to absorb knowledge. He has the power to teach himself." Maria Montessori
Wyatt was eager to help celebrate the 25th anniversary of his school.
Decked out in his blue celebration t-shirt and signature blue hat, he (as well as his parents, both sets of grandparents, and aunt) enjoyed the festivities.

Wyatt is not a new-comer to the Salem Montessori School. He has been attending since his infant days, and is now part of the primary program.
"Education should therefore include the two forms of work, manual and intellectual, for the same person, and thus make it understood by practical experience that these two kinds complete each other and are equally essential to a civilized existence."-Maria Montessori
The evening began with musical selections provided by each of the classes, and directed by the very talented and patient, Mr. Richard.

Wyatt not only has rhythm, his ability to concentrate is exceptional! But then again, this makes him happy!
The musical performance was followed by a potluck picnic. Boy can these parents put on a spread!

Included in the festivities were face painting, games, a photo booth, crafts, and fun for all ages.

"Children are human beings to whom respect is due, superior to us by reason of their innocence and of the greater possibilities of their future." Maria Montessori

Wyatt's excitement for life is what makes us Grandparents keep on keepin' on!😍😍😍