Ashley's Senior Ball went off beautifully. (click to enlarge the gorgeous photos taken by her mother) She designed her dress and did the tie dye, which was very stressful. She had never done anything this large before. Then, Ashley and my mom, Grandma Louise, sewed the dress. As far as she was concerned, it turned out perfectly; I agree because it is SO her and very original. What did I do during all of this? I basically stayed out of the way, provided money and moral support, and worried myself silly over many things that never came to pass. Some say that is my specialty. They had a marvelous time at dinner, the dance, and afterwards, having coffee and watching a movie with some friends.
I'm so happy that it was a special time for her! Here's a view of the back of her dress, and of my favorite color rhododendron. (I have two of them.) As for this week, it is Alison's first week as a Level 9. She said to me Friday night, "Mom, tonight was my last day as a Level 8." She sounded a bit wistful. She is scared of her new guy coach; she is also worried that she will be the worst one in the group--how embarrassing! She is concerned that her mother will NOT get home in time from school to get her to gym a half hour earlier. I will try hard not to add to her stress, even though she certainly adds to mine. I love both of them dearly and am extremely proud of them, but it is a miracle I don't have high blood pressure.