Jacob had his first piano recital last week. He played two songs: "Little Indian Dance" and "Indians." I actually didn't know he was playing two songs until the recital. They were both so similar and when he practiced, he always played them back to back. So, I was surprised to learn he had memorized not only one, but two songs! He did a really good job. He is such a good boy. I almost never have to ask him to practice. That's not to say he's always thrilled about practicing, but he always does it. (Completing his theory, now that's a little painful. But we're working at it.)

Jacob and his teacher, Brinley Bingham

My Mom and Shanelle came to the recital.
Guess who the boys wanted to sit by?
(Shanelle wore her prom dress to church

because it was the day after prom.

And since she and my Mom came straight from church to the recital,

she wore it to the recital. Dosen't she look beautiful?)

Yes, Jacob is a very good boy. About two weeks ago, he woke Shane and me from our Sunday nap. He just couldn't wait to tell us he had started reading the Book of Mormon. He was already on page 4 he informed us. Since then, he has read almost every day. Because of his example, Joshua has also started to read (and he actually does quite well with a little help). I am thankful for Jacob's good example. He is turning eight this summer and will be baptized. I can hardly believe it.

Soccer season has begun for Jacob and Joshua. Shane is coaching Jacob's team and Jacob LOVES that. All our boys love their daddy, but Jacob idolizes him. I think it has been good for both of them. Jacob is becoming quite the player. He has scored goals in a few scrimmage games and almost scored in a real game a few weeks ago. Like always, he plays with all his heart.

Shane helping Jacob tie a knot.

(Sometimes Jacob gets focused on the funniest things. And when I say focused, I really mean obsessed. There for a while, Jacob was fascinated with ropes. His "rope feddish" started back in December with his interest in Santa's reigns. In January, he started trying to lasso various things (including his brothers - yah, we had to put an end to that). Then, after we went rock climbing as a family, he tried repelling off his bunk bed! All the while, he has been making up different knots and learning to tie a few real ones.)