Laurel Date Night

 I am a leader of a church group which includes eleven 16-18 year old girls, one of them being my own daughter Andrea. And yes, they're so fun! For our activity this week, the girls were supposed to bring a date for some fun and games at my house. I was very worried about this activity. Frankly, I never want to plan activities that exclude anyone. But let's face it, asking a boy on a date can be pretty nerve racking!.  I knew some girls would be hesitant to come. However, I do think the girls that had the courage to get a date (or come alone, which is even gutsier!) ended up having a great time.

What are they doing, you ask? We are playing Kubb! (pronounced KOOB) If you don't know what it is, and you have some time on your hands, read about it http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kubb It's super fun!
I had a blast watching the girls interact with their dates. There's something about getting a bunch of teenagers together in a group and making them compete! It can get ugly, but mostly it's just entertaining.  I've said it before and I'll say it again: I absolutely LOVE teenagers (in a non-creepy-motherly way...). They make me smile.

Below is a happy picture of the winning team. There was no winning prize, but their excitement is still evident. Jane (one of the leaders) who is standing in the center is holding the king (you MUST read about Kubb if you want to know more about the king!).

Winners!

Below is a sad shot of the team whose efforts were almost good enough...:(((((

The "almost" winners

 In the 5 months I have been in Young Womens, I have learned that everyone is different and the perfect activity for some girls may be the only activity other girls will pass on, and that's OK! Hopefully we'll catch you next time. Cake decorating, anyone?

Dylan and Mallory's Piano Recital 2011

This year was especially fun to watch these two play the piano. Mallory found time to learn her recital song even though soccer was taking most of her time (plus her brother likes to hog the piano!). She's getting to be a great pianist, and she's not bad at playing soccer either... Way to go Mal :)

Dylan, on the other hand has found a new love, and it's not a girl...(yet). He's relentless when it comes to the piano. No song is too hard in his eyes. Practicing 3+ hours per day (his choice...!) earned him the last spot on the recital. Yes, in this case being the last performer was a good thing. Nice job Dylan!