Days with the Dorans

It's hard to believe that it's Ali's LAST orchestra concert. I'm still amazed at all she has learned these last 3 years but I'm not surprised because she adored her orchestra teacher. Mrs. White was a wonderful teacher and was so good to "Ali D" always! Ali has decided to continue in orchestra in high school! Can't wait to hear her next year. HERE is a video from Al's concert. Her fan club all thought she was GREAT!!!

 We got to see/hear Ali play in her second orchestra concert. In the first concert she combined with other orchestras but this one featured the band from her school and the orchestra. I'm always amazed at how well they do after only playing a few years. I took a video of the concert HERE . 'Tis the season of concerts and I love that the kids are able to support each other and attend (Al often missed last year because of dance). Z did put his book away during his sister's part (mostly under the glare of his mama).  Nana was watching the Drapal kids but Papa was able to make it! I laughed because when he took a picture of our family he was confused and had it pointed at him with us seeing the screen. I love how we laugh together. It's also been sweet to see these two grow closer (I think) as Ali ends her 8th grade year and Joey his 9th. They have some over-lapping friendships now too which is fun (for now)! Great job, sister! You were great!

 So I mentioned in a recent post about Ali's orchestra concert (I'm playing catch-up in the blog dept) that Nan sent me some pictures and I lost them because I got a new phone. I asked her if there was a chance she still had them and she did!! So here are a few more of Ali! Nan didn't even know that Ali was there until she spotted her at the end leaving the stage! Ryan plays for WLC! She was able to zoom in super close and get that picture of Ali (below). She has such an amazing camera! The top picture is the picture she zoomed in from! After a super long day she immediately sent them to me. There are people out there who just shine and Nan is one of those people! Thank you so much for snapping these pictures!!

 Al's first orchestra concert was great! They combined with Walnut Creek, WLC and WLN! I made a video of her pieces HERE . Nan was there too and got some pics with Al (since Ryan was there) by chance. She texted them to me but I got a new phone so lost them (I'm so bummed). I'm hoping she may still have them. Al was in an odd mood that night so no pictures with the family. I know she felt bad about her moodiness later so I'm hoping there'll be some smiley pictures with perhaps some family in it the next time!