A Lovely Afternoon with Miss Ryann Woods

Today I was privileged to spend my afternoon with Ryann Woods, and boy did we have fun! It seems appropriate that my first official blog would revolve around Ryann because her mom, Alison, helped me set this thing up this morning. She is so talented! Anyhow, Ryann has been a dedicated piano student of mine for nearly two years now, but unfortunately our time is coming to a close as I am headed off to school at the end of August. Still, I wanted to celebrate her outstanding achievements in the field of music with a fun afternoon. 

First, Ryann and I headed to Jon and Bon's in downtown. Ryann ordered cookies and cream frozen yogurt with twix candy pieces for a topping- yummy! It was Ryann's first time at this Chico Classic, and I know she definitely enjoyed this delicious discovery because half way through our visit, she looked across the booth at me and said, "Ashley, I like this place!" She's such a doll. While I absolutely enjoyed treating her to one of my all-time favorites (Jon and Bon's is great after a stake dance!), I must admit that I was even more impressed by something I noticed on the wall. High above our booth hung a small picture of Benjamin Franklin with a profound quote written underneath by none other than Mr. Franklin himself. I was so struck by his powerful words that I dug through my purse and wrote his quote down on the back of an old receipt. He said, 

I have lived, sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proof I see of this truth- that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? We have been assured, sir, in the sacred writing, that 'except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it.' I firmly believe this.

I want to add my testimony to Mr. Benjamin Franklin's stirring statement. I too believe that God's hand in the founding of this great nation must always be acknowledged and remembered. I know that in my life, God is ultimately responsible for my every blessing. How grateful I feel for this knowledge, and how inspiring it was to be reminded that this country was founded on principles of faith and prayer and endurance. Way to go Jon and Bon's! There is still remarkable hope in this world.

Next, Ryann and I walked a block to Powell's Sweet Shoppe. Her big brown eyes danced when I revealed that this would be our second stop. Powell's has been such a great addition to Downtown Chico. I don't know what it is about candy, but even I can't help but feel happy upon entering the doors and reveling in the scent of sugar!  The turn of phrase could never be more appropriate: We were like "kids in a candy shop!" Ryann selected a few small candies and was even "sweet" enough to share with me.

While we were sitting outside the store after making our purchase, it occurred to me that we were just blocks from my boyfriend Zeke Wright's house. Zeke's dogs Sasha and Bear recently had eight pure-bred German Shepherd puppies. So, knowing how much Ryann loves my dog Jeeves, I texted Zeke and asked if we could swing by and take a look. They are so adorable! Below is a picture of Ryann with Snowball...

We really enjoyed playing with these darling puppies. They really are the cutest things EVER. My final intent was for Ryann and I to head over to Five Mile (my favorite place in all of Chico) so that we could enjoy the peace that comes from the park while I painted her nails. All had gone as anticipated, and I was feeling good about my planning skills :)  However, after I painted two of Ryann's nails (and after we had been chased around by some vicious wasps- yikes!), Ryann determined that the color wasn't working for her. I had failed to pack any nailpolish remover so we packed up and headed home where I would be able to take it off.

But, as we rolled up the driveway, she had a change of heart :)  We went inside where a I applied two coats of this "Orange You Cute" nailpolish by Sally Hansen to each of her dainty nails. Don't her hands look gorgeous??

I had a fantastic day with Ryann. She is such a lovely, talented, spunky girl, and I will miss our weekly association  very much. Thank you for being such an awesome student Ryann!! But even more, thank you for being my friend.