Zack's Keys to Success

I love this poem, Zack. You included things you were so proud to achieve in your younger years. And now you want to earn a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. You want to play a musical instrument.

You have already earned many belts and you play two instruments now. So, you are on your way. Obviously, you feel you can improve these skills. You know you have the potential to go farther. That is great, Zack. Your music is one of your passions and it is something I feel you will work on for many many years to come.

Then come thoughts for future accomplishments; everyone going green. Seems to me you have it all together for a young man your age. I know you can't wait to drive, but I am surprised you didn't mention that Ford F-250 you have been saving for.

I dreamed of having a grandson and what he would be like. You are everything I could ever hope for. You make me proud.
Hugs and kisses,

The Always Smiling Alex

I love this picture of Alex. The minute I saw it I thought,"Great for a fantasy layout." And here it is.

The picture was taken Memorial Day weekend. Shelley, Don, Zack and Alex spent the weekend at the Cape with friends and family.

Zack was looking forward to spending the weekend with Natalia, Anna, Heather and James. They were relocating to California in July. James was making a career change; a great one.

We miss spending time with them. Zack emails and instant messages Natalia, which helps. I'm hoping the Baldwin's make a trip to California next summer. They can spend quality time together. And hey, they can always take a trip to Disney Land.
Hugs and kisses,

Zack at "12" Years Old

I took this picture of Zack at Alex's fifth birthday party. He and Debbie, one of his Mom's best friends, were having a private conversation. It had to be something that tickled Zack's funny bone.

This is such a great picture, Zack, I had to share it.
Hugs and kisses,

The First Day of School - 2011

Our precious four have begun the school year mostly with smiles on their faces. Our trend-setter, Kara, chose her outfit and hair embellishments very carefully. And, as usual, she looked adorable. Emily was smiling from the moment we got to Grandma's and Grandpa's house. She looked so cute. We try so ardently to have her wear her hair back from her sweet face. The effort is almost always in vain. Well, as you can see in the pictures above, Miss Em was proudly showing that pretty face.

Alex wore this cute smirk on his face beginning the night before school. It being his first day of school, Papa and I stopped at his house to kiss our last baby goodbye and wish our big boy a great "first day" in school. I still can not accept his being school age! Now our Zack. He is not pleased with how his hair cut turned out. And I don't really blame him. But like I told him - it will grow. Alex and Zack were driven to school by Dad, so we didn't see them until after school. Zack seemed happy, but according to him he is not anxious to start a new school year. He is now in seventh grade and we all know the higher you go, the harder it gets. I have no doubt Zack will succeed. Alex was wearing a big smile and announced he had a great day. When Mom checked his lunch case, she noticed he hadn't eaten his lunch. When asked, he said, "Oh, I bought my lunch today. I had a hot dog." Mom explained that if you go to school with a lunch, that is what you eat. Too funny.

I have spent at least one day a week with a grandchild or two for the last eleven years. I have loved every moment of the time spent bonding with each of our grandchildren. I feel it has given us a special relationship. My four all know if they have a problem they are not ready to discuss with their parents, they can always come to Nana. Their Moms always knew they could go to their Aunt Suzy. I knew my girls would be given responsible advice I would approve of. I hope this is how my girls feel.

I hope this school year brings happiness, educational and social success to every child beginning the new school year!
Hugs and kisses,

The Films' and The Hines' at The Cape

We spent a beautiful, sunny and hot vacation at The Cape again this year. Emily and Kara had a great time riding the waves. There were actually more and larger ones than usual. The Films' love to walk the beach in early morning and collect unique sea shells. Wonder how many they have at home since we always make our yearly visit. Guess there are some things one can never get enough of. And for me one of them is The Cape.

The only thing missing were The Baldwins'. They vacationed in Ocean City, Maryland this summer and had a fantastic time at The Hilton Hotel. After that they moved on to Philadelphia. It was a great summer for all of us.
Hugs and kisses,

Our Sweet Em

This picture captures Emily at the age of five, just before the school year began. Only one thought is in my mind; how precious our sweet Emily is; how blessed we are.
Hugs and kisses,