Zack's 8th Grade Graduation ~ June 2013

Zack, elementary school is behind you and now you step up the ladder into high School. You have shared all those years with Papa and I. We have enjoyed every concert, every Special Person's Day; just every part of those nine years. It has been so exciting watching you become the young man you are. Need I tell you how proud we are of you?

Your graduation day was sunny and bright. It was great to watch you walk across the same stage your Mom did to receive your diploma. My mind was crowded with so many memories.

After the ceremony, were all congregated outside to further celebrate with your friends and their families. Lots of laughter and picture taking was going on. It was another day we spent together making awesome memories.
Hugs and kisses,

Emily Turns "8" ~ August 25, 2013

Em's party was held on a very hot day. So a pool party was a perfect choice. The adults enjoyed sitting in the shade watching all the kids swimming, playing golf, swinging; totally enjoying themselves.

As always, Emily entertained her guests while she opened her gifts. She makes the smoothest, adorable gestures with her hands. It is like they are dancing. It is rather captivating.

These parties are not just for the birthdays and presents. They are times when family and friends come together and reconnect. With today's busy life style, it is so easy to grow apart. Nothing holds people together like children.
Hugs and kisses,

China Reunion in New Hampshire ~ 2013

 Hugs and kisses,

Alex Turns "7"

Of all our grandchildren, I would say Alex gets the most excited about his birthday. You just have to mention it and that twinkle appears in his eyes. Of course, he shows that "all over his face" smile. And, believe it or not, he is finally getting front teeth!!

His party was held at Aunt TT's and Uncle Corey's. That way the kids could go swimming. He had a joint party with family and school friends. Shelley made his birthday "ice cream" cake; our favorite!

I have so many great pictures from the party it was very difficult to choose the ones for the blog. As I reviewed them, I knew I had to post the ones showing his various facial expressions as he opened his presents. I love that Alex still has some "little boy" in him.
Hugs and kisses,

Zack Turns "14"

It really is amazing. I blinked my eyes and Zack was a teenager when I opened them. We celebrated his 14th birthday with ice cream cake; his favorite (just happens to be mine, too). Mom and Dad surprised him with a futon for his room. He was happy with their choice. I'm quite sure he had been hinting for one rather openly.  I think it is a totally awesome gift for a teenager's room. Now he has extra seating for his friends and a comfortable bed for a sleepover.

It was a great evening. Zack entertained us per usual. He has a great people personality and needs no prompting to share it.

Zack, keep that personality; play your music; follow your dreams. They are the main ingredients for your living a great life. And remember, Zack, Nana loves you more than love!!
Hugs and kisses,

Mother's Day ~ 2013

We always have a great time celebrating Mother's Day. This year we went to brunch at The Desmond. The food was great and there was far too much of it. Kristen's hair is growing back in. Hence, a great big smile on everyone's face. It was a special day for our family. We thanked God for Kristen's health and for His helping all of us get through the past year or so. Our family has been so blessed.

I was given an extra gift. When I went into the courtyard to get oodles of desserts, I was graced with the beautiful sound of a harp. Now, I know that was there especially for me:~)

And as you can see in my layout, great minds think alike. Kristen loves gnomes. Low and behold, she got two. The smaller one in soft, muted colors is from Shelley. The larger one dressed in bright, bold colors is from Connie. Who would think a gnome could be found boasting your very favorite saying, "Bite me!" Yes, our "sweet" Kristen retorts with this saying every chance she can. Connie always finds the most appropriate gifts.

We look forward to seeing where next Mother's Day will bring us!
Hugs and kisses,

Zack's Spring Concert - May 2013

I know I have said it tons of times, but I have to reiterate how much I enjoy the end result of  Tamarac's  music program. Hard to believe there can be so many talented kids all under the roof of such a small, rural school.

Zack's biggest enjoyment to date is listening to, playing and writing music. And he is good; really good. Much of his talent is inherent. It just happened naturally. And he picked up the ball and ran with it. He played two solos in this concert. You know, of course, our family was just beaming with pride.

I had to include the bottom picture. It was taken the winter of 2006. Zack was six years old and what is he doing? Playing his first electric guitar.
Hugs and kisses,