Candylicious and The Chocoloate Bar

With a name like Candylicious, it has to be good.  We drive by these two little shops once a week for oboe lessons.  We were early, and figured we would stop for a look.  These were two delightful stores that a child, or adult, could definitely rote a tooth in.  I took just a few fun photos.

I do believe Zack was mesmerized as well.

And the Chocolate Bar has homemade ice cream, cakes, and a huge variety of chocolates.  Recently, with all the heat, the Chocolate Bar has beckoned us to try a new ice cream flavor.  We couldn't turn them down.

A happy day

The neighbor's son has been doing this for two years.  We were concerned there might be some lost appendage before now.  Not sure why this is so exciting, although I think I felt this way about ironing my own clothes.  Then the truth set in...another 68+ years of ironing my own stuff.  Well, here he is mowing, unassisted, albeit, fully supervised.

Now don't you wish you had a yard man like mine.  And, he likes to mow! 

Excitement is brewing.

Are you wondering what it might be?  Stop and consider the candidates in my family.  Your excitement will likely not be ours.  For Zachary, it was when a package came the other day.  He had been checking the mail daily.  And then it came...

Reed making tools

And yesterday was our first reed making class with Dr. Gilbert.  He's been working on a reed off and on since we got home yesterday afternoon.  I guess with all boys, using a knife is cool.  He's already cut his finger two times.  He's re-wrapped the reed probably ten times.  He is quite persistent at his new skill, and I'm sure he will master it before his second lesson next week.  Then the real thrill comes...oboe camp.  He will receive additional instruction, and likely be making perfect, playable reeds by mid-July.  Although, to his disliking, it may take longer.  I hope Dr. Gilbert was kidding when she said it took her a year to make a reed that played well.

Here are a few pics of the process...

Tying the string to a base

Measuring the reed for placement

Using the knife, ever so carefully

Unexpected Award

It was a typical end-of-the-school-year day.  I did not realize there was an awards program for the secondary students.  So while I was at home working on a few end-of-the-year tasks for school, I received an email from a friend with a picture attached, but no text...

At first glance, I wasn't sure where he was or what he was holding.  Then I began to beam with pride!  He received the highest honor at his school.  Clear Lake Christian awards one student from each grade with the Eagle Award, which is for those students who show spiritual leadership and a godly attitude.  What a wonderful way to end the school year!  We love you Zachary and are proud of your accomplishments this year!