Hamilton Hype

Simone waited patiently for a long time for this moment, and I must say....

It is rare in life to experience something that actually exceeds the hype that surrounds it. BUT, family and friends, we assure you Hamilton does just that!!!

Last Saturday we went to see this award winning musical at the Kennedy Center, and we were blown away.  AMAZING.  It was easily the best show we have ever seen.  Simply a masterpiece.

They were being extremely strict about enforcing the no photography rule inside the theater, but we did try to capture the experience outside.

The single shot I snapped before being swooped upon by 3 ushers yelling "no pictures!"

After the show, we had dinner in DC at none other than.... wait for it.... The Hamilton Restaurant.  

And as if the spectacular musical wasn't enough, we also achieved another rarity in life.  We went three for three on some excellent desserts after a very satisfying meal.

Simone's peanut butter cheesecake.

Mom's carrot cake trifle.

Dad's amaretto bread pudding.  All fantastic!

A really superb way to spend a summer Saturday in the nation's capital.  Thank you Alexander Hamilton (and Lin-Manuel Miranda) for your genius!

Happy Father's Day!

Despite our busy month, we did not let Father's Day go unnoticed.  We celebrated on Saturday with brunch at L'Auberge Chez Francois with some close friends.  The weather was stunning, and the whole meal was leisurely and wonderful.

 Didn't get any pics of our meals, but did snap a few of dessert.

Tony's raspberry soufflé.

Simone opted for the chocolate tart with ice cream.

And I went straight for the plum tart with cinnamon ice cream. YUM!!

 Also spent some time outside on the patio just taking in the magnificent weather.

Two proud dads!

Elementary School Graduation!

Another major milestone for Simone!  This week she successfully completed fifth grade, and will advance to.... wait for it... MIDDLE SCHOOL in the fall.

Deep breath.  This was almost surreal for me.  I'd swear it was only 5 minutes ago that we brought our little preemie, who would barely open her eyes, home from the hospital.  And now, she's through elementary school.  Wow.  Just wow.  Everyone warns you how quickly they grow, but nothing can prepare you for it.  Simone has both changed/grown so much over these years, and yet her personality, her spirit, her amazing heart stays the same.  We are simply in awe of the little lady she's becoming. There's just no one like her!

On her last day of elementary school.

At the final Fifth Grade Luncheon before the farewell ceremony.

Simone was recognized for being selected for All County Chorus.

Receiving her completion certificate from her teacher and principal.

With her class.

Panoramic of the event.

After the ceremony.  Instead of flowers, we presented Simone her edible arrangement.  She's been asking for years to get one.  LOL.

A pose with daddy.

And a family selfie.

With her 5th grade teacher.

The entire 5th Grade.

Farewell and Congratulations Steuart Weller Elementary-- you survived Simone Dotson!!  Look out middle school!