Sophie's big BIG day

 Today was a SUPER BIG day for our girl. Not only did she celebrate her 5th birthday, but she also started preschool for the FIRST time EVER!!!  To be honest, I'm not sure which one she was more excited about--turning FIVE, or starting school;) 

Because Shane had to go out of town first thing this morning,  we actually started the birthday celebration a little early. Sunday night, after we got home from church, we enjoyed cake and presents together as a family. 

 This morning,  Sophie woke up bright and early,  bounced out of bed, and was ready to start her day as a new 5 year old/ PRESCHOOLER!!! 

 Oh, her presence is certainly going to be missed at home each day, but we are beyond excited about all she is going to learn this year!

She was a little nervous, but mostly all smiles as we dropped her off this morning. 

Her teachers were both super sweet and I know she will make lots and lots of new friends this year. 

 

Be still my heart...would you look at that sweet grin she was wearing as I picked her up this afternoon!?!? Needless to say, she had (in her exact words) an "AWESOME" day!!!! 

And as the old saying goes, "Sugar and Spice and everything Nice...that's what little girls are made of." Well, this girls definitely got the "SPICE" part down pat;) She's spunky...but she's also determined, passionate, and full of life! She embraces everything head on, and finds JOY in every moment! She is the one who finally brought some PINK (HOT pink that is) into our world of blue. 
Sophie Lu,

 We love you with EVERYTHING that we are, and are beyond grateful to call you OURS!!!! 

Happiest 5th Birthday, Girl!!!!! 

"For I am confident of this very thing,
that He who began a good work in you
will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 1:6

Life Lately

 Our life lately could really be summed up with one word...S-O-C-C-E-R! 

 

 Yes, fall soccer is in full swing for the Bruce bunch and we couldn't be having more fun!  

Three nights of practice each week, followed by three games each Saturday makes for a pretty hectic schedule,

but it wouldn't feel like fall any other way! 

Four outta five are playing this season, but it's really just a matter of time before little Addy-Kate joins in on the craziness too!

Shane is coaching Sophie and Hud's team again this season, along with Riley's team as well. 

  He enjoys it sooooo much and the kids LOVE having daddy for their coach!

 Corban is no longer playing for CHAMP (our church's league), but instead decided to try out for a  more competitive organization this season.  He had his try out this summer and MADE the team of his choice!! We were beyond proud of him and have really enjoyed watching him learn and grow on his new team. His skills have already improved immensely--as well as his determination and drive to become a better player. 

His first official game of the season is THIS coming Saturday.  

This past Saturday was the "season opener" for CHAMP!  

I'm thrilled to report that both teams were able to secure a WIN!!! 

YAY!! 

 Sweet Hudson got the ball, and was able to break away from the pack and score a GOAL! 

 He was over the moon with JOY and couldn't wait to get to his daddy/coach for his congratulatory hug!!! 

Not only have we jumped right into soccer season, but all our other fall activities have kicked off as well.

Awana and Gopher Buddies are in full swing on Wednesday nights--two programs our family enjoys immensely!

This year I'm serving as a Gopher Buddy music leader as well as teaching preschool children's choir on Sunday evenings. Y'all...I laugh because I seriously cannot carry a tune to save my life, but thankfully my precious three, four, and five year old's don't notice... or care;)

I'm proof the Lord can use anyone;)

Add Thursday morning Bible study, children's choir, and other school related activities to the mix and you have a good idea of what our fall looks like right now.    

It's busy and it's full, but we wouldn't want it any other way.

It's just how the Bruce's roll these days!!!

Labor Day at the Lake

 Labor Day weekend has come and gone and with it summer supposedly has too. And as excited as I am for our fall schedule to begin, I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to summer just yet. Thankfully, we were able to squeeze in a bit more "summer fun" before putting away our flip flops and bathing suits in exchange for our boots and sweaters.

Our sweet friends, the Howard's, graciously invited our family to join them at their beautiful lake house for the weekend. We all had a TERRIFIC time and immensely enjoyed all the activities staying on the lake offers.

Time on the boat!

 Fun on the tube!

Knee boarding and jet skiing!

Swimming in the water!

Hours of fishing!

First EVER sleep overs!

Topless popsicle eating;)

 And most importantly, precious (and priceless) memories made with wonderful friends!