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JUNE 2009
One year ago, I met the Thomas family, our Jazz at the Chimes contest winners. At that time, Natalie had just become a new mom to Rachel and Ashley. Over the last twelve months I have happily observed these lovely girls gracefully come into their own. Natalie, continues to provide a stable, happy and loving environment in which Ashley and Rachel can blossom. Read the original story...

Ashley's Graduation
Ashley, age 7, graduated from kindergarten on May 22nd. Throughout the ceremony — and to the audience's amazement and delight — each of the twelve young graduates carried the entire program, speaking clearly and confidently while using the microphone.

"Good morning, parents and friends. We would like to welcome you to our 19th annual Kindergarten graduation. Thank you for joining us in celebrating our special day.
We ARE the future and we would like to share our dreams with you."

When Ashley approached the mic during the presentation of the class song, "I am the Future," she said:

"Yes, the future lies in my hands
I'll be a teacher and nurture the minds and hearts of all
And their intellect will be of my concern
All of life's connected, this much I have learned"

From start to finish, the ceremony was so moving there was hardly a dry eye in the audience. I applaud all the graduates and their families. And to Ms. Russell, a committed teacher who cried and hugged each child as if they were her own.

Dressed for success,
two young men welcome
the audience
(Ashley is on the far right)

Ashley at the microphone describing the symbolism of lighting the candles

Ashley surprises Natalie
with a beautifully wrapped, handmade gift

At the reception, Ashley and her classmates admire cakes adorned with their class photo

Me, congratulating Ashley,
the graduate!

VIDEO: Ashley receiving her diploma

Rachel Debuts in Fame
Rachel, an honor roll student at her new school, has just completed the sixth grade. In addition to her studies, she recently received her yellow belt in Tae Kwon Do and won 1st place in a competition!

A budding actor, the 12-year old was wonderful in her debut of the school's lively production of the musical, Fame. When Rachel's character, Shirley, brings along a friend to help her in her dance audition for the School of the Performing Arts, her friend gets into the school and she does not (see video clip below).

Rachel and Clairdee

Rachel as "Shirley"
in the musical, Fame

Rachel out front!

The company dances to the theme song, "Fame"

Rachel and Natalie beaming after the performance

VIDEO: Rachel as "Shirley" in the musical, Fame