tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73902366787836386862024-03-13T05:34:40.594-05:00Seeking SanityKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.comBlogger1032125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-62646193578384233052021-06-13T20:39:00.050-05:002021-06-25T09:09:54.882-05:00Keep Moving<p>Life does not have a pause button around here. It just keeps moving and moving. We are jumping from one emotional week to the next. </p><p>This past Tuesday Ben graduated from 8th grade. Now, I realize this is not normally a momentous occasion but my kids attend the same grade school from prekindergarten through 8th grade. That is a long time to be at the same school. It is a big part of their lives. And now my Ben is moving on to high school. Crazy how quickly time flies.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dpv9eTVS658/YNXeON29vPI/AAAAAAAAMGw/KB2ZAGTtOlwQFcU6tJEM_nlABYhwK0GAQCNcBGAsYHQ/s869/198058117_523857555434277_186971582139780416_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="869" data-original-width="695" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dpv9eTVS658/YNXeON29vPI/AAAAAAAAMGw/KB2ZAGTtOlwQFcU6tJEM_nlABYhwK0GAQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/198058117_523857555434277_186971582139780416_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ben was also chosen to give the class speech at the graduation ceremony at church. He did a wonderful job. </div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyKjmj8Y1vaOFKyinYqlN8h3x2GaCoeNnuIGQRrgh0kGUA0zvi4_U1lO1QXDuOlXMA6mDULalctuQfXnQhi3g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was a very hot day and a long mass and graduation ceremony with no air conditioning. At this point the kids were very happy to get out of church. I think we were all thankful that we made it. It was HOT.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b6d0ebS75N8/YNXebWLOX4I/AAAAAAAAMG0/LM7fj2kz5KgJ_4oUbfuo0ydWkLr-E7HNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s847/200241981_859802017965336_2593261827495392937_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="847" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b6d0ebS75N8/YNXebWLOX4I/AAAAAAAAMG0/LM7fj2kz5KgJ_4oUbfuo0ydWkLr-E7HNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/200241981_859802017965336_2593261827495392937_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So weird taking family pictures with one of us missing. We were all wishing Joe could have been there too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yPkyJRh7Ok0/YNXdL_4LdpI/AAAAAAAAMGA/k88QnkdkSlwSxEharGqocPFADNUj7kOcQCNcBGAsYHQ/s882/196972825_256602639566780_5148638569679041534_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="882" data-original-width="579" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yPkyJRh7Ok0/YNXdL_4LdpI/AAAAAAAAMGA/k88QnkdkSlwSxEharGqocPFADNUj7kOcQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/196972825_256602639566780_5148638569679041534_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think the heat was starting to get to us. Such a lovely family. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0wbIHXQ7ZyA/YNXdM8h52kI/AAAAAAAAMGQ/xCppAZB9Ahkc8uGBeLujWwO1SmkkCCwYwCNcBGAsYHQ/s798/200108001_989993838413044_8262915970644845324_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="529" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0wbIHXQ7ZyA/YNXdM8h52kI/AAAAAAAAMGQ/xCppAZB9Ahkc8uGBeLujWwO1SmkkCCwYwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/200108001_989993838413044_8262915970644845324_n.jpg" /></a></div><p>After the ceremony all the families gathered together for dinner and a graduation slide show. It was nice for all the kids to get together one last time. They really did not have a great last two years at their school. They missed out on a lot of fun due to covid. Their 8th grade year is supposed to be a pretty great year but they had no sports, no musicals, no concerts, and no trip to Washington D.C. as previous 8th grade classes had. It was nice to end a tough year with a fun gathering.</p><p>As I said, there really is no time to rest around here. On Friday and Saturday Grace had her dance recital. Last year the dance recital was cancelled so Grace was happy to be able to perform this year. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CHlLAq4WK4/YNXfNAtSSAI/AAAAAAAAMHg/InCjoTWhgJUPkaRA07DidVdx12xT2FwpgCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/198174759_153999936686831_4084533541750378731_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CHlLAq4WK4/YNXfNAtSSAI/AAAAAAAAMHg/InCjoTWhgJUPkaRA07DidVdx12xT2FwpgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/198174759_153999936686831_4084533541750378731_n.jpg" /></a></div><p>All I can say is that my girl was aptly named. She is one graceful and lovely dancer. I just love watching her dance.</p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XL-pevyLyB0/YNXfNAlusuI/AAAAAAAAMHc/Hps4Ocp71Z0UE4KD0ta2jhbjmXsGTWT7ACNcBGAsYHQ/s785/200301962_499756401138548_8132583024376956237_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="676" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XL-pevyLyB0/YNXfNAlusuI/AAAAAAAAMHc/Hps4Ocp71Z0UE4KD0ta2jhbjmXsGTWT7ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/200301962_499756401138548_8132583024376956237_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This has been a tough two weeks, month, year... nevermind. I've been pretty emotional for a while now. If you've been reading my blog for any amount of time you know that I have always dreaded my kids growing up. In my heart I know I am very lucky that my kids are growing into responsible, caring, capable people. It is how it should be. But I hate that it all goes so quickly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Life just keeps moving and rolling along. As it should. And I'm trying to soak in every moment as much as I can.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-2839762698766064822021-06-05T20:18:00.004-05:002021-06-05T20:26:29.843-05:00My Marine<p>My boy is officially a Marine. Todd and I were able to fly out to San Diego and see him graduate. It used to be that families could come out and have a "family day" the day before graduation, then watch graduation, and the recruits could go home for 10 days before going on to Infantry Training. Thanks to covid the graduations have been closed to everyone for the last year and after graduation the recruits were shipped off to Infantry training the next day.. A few weeks before Joe's graduation it was announced that 2 guests were allowed at graduation. The guests could watch graduation, have 5 hours with their Marine, and then leave the base. The new Marines would be shipped off to Infantry training the next morning. Not ideal, but we were thrilled to at least be able to see our boy. </p><p>It was an extremely emotional visit, to say the least. </p><p>Joe had a message for all the family and friends that had prayed for him throughout boot camp. And he had a special message for his classmates that would be graduating this weekend. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwE9UCk2Ce9WodKe2Embjym8_N_F02JEA0Gv-jGmpg0GvSCXcNwN9E6xz6q1sdGlIrEsnBj9cHRw0wrHl8PCQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sGKOBL_FMu8/YLwLrB87RwI/AAAAAAAAMDw/bVs9EpuXtr45sEKKIVYj-se6MX1O-gMIgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/191251697_202054728322814_1333205794060059174_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sGKOBL_FMu8/YLwLrB87RwI/AAAAAAAAMDw/bVs9EpuXtr45sEKKIVYj-se6MX1O-gMIgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/191251697_202054728322814_1333205794060059174_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love this video. The new Marines are dismissed by their drill instructors. There were 6 platoons (345 recruits) and you can hear each platoon down the line being dismissed. So cool.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx-bKyMAeSryW_1Cg1XjALvjYdq0bcKjVSFqTXAwAhHsKTGMWbfk-3fnJoeqwJV2rzMOlQ2_dYl6cTDKJeU1g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5or74_8gPgc/YLwLsKHCdNI/AAAAAAAAMD4/TyuVpGScy6wcEWakmRIqpaXzzLSxtDcNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/196452427_484619006083683_6289679624659594684_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5or74_8gPgc/YLwLsKHCdNI/AAAAAAAAMD4/TyuVpGScy6wcEWakmRIqpaXzzLSxtDcNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/196452427_484619006083683_6289679624659594684_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">That first hug really hits different. Man, I missed this boy.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwyWsVYy7Bbdj_CS-FnO4DW08SuM7TQez4YWCj4I5rR9voONZAR9U7c9Si3HK3Hq5meNj_gn2TrAx5_V3-3cg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QBfi4_zj9aw/YLwLqduLHvI/AAAAAAAAMDg/Wk_-M5bqsqk-PWSlq6fSJ66tKvbV-BSWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1008/190096996_542567060103454_5475422230959143013_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1008" data-original-width="756" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QBfi4_zj9aw/YLwLqduLHvI/AAAAAAAAMDg/Wk_-M5bqsqk-PWSlq6fSJ66tKvbV-BSWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/190096996_542567060103454_5475422230959143013_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WFmTB7yYNZM/YLwLrtmHP0I/AAAAAAAAMD0/T_HcUWfHGBoFC-Ab138vaFs0so4WY0oCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/195950694_147256477345125_6316383946053615208_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1384" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WFmTB7yYNZM/YLwLrtmHP0I/AAAAAAAAMD0/T_HcUWfHGBoFC-Ab138vaFs0so4WY0oCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/195950694_147256477345125_6316383946053615208_n.jpg" /></a></div><p>Still my same goofy Joe. Thank heavens! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tmsr5zUkAkc/YLwLqTz62oI/AAAAAAAAMDo/bfz_yw0SdzcnaceQEntZwIs_dPcbP58UACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/189874771_497678424769714_4516568975581590489_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tmsr5zUkAkc/YLwLqTz62oI/AAAAAAAAMDo/bfz_yw0SdzcnaceQEntZwIs_dPcbP58UACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/189874771_497678424769714_4516568975581590489_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Before we knew it our 5 hours were up and we were giving our last hugs. Man, five hours just isn't enough time. It was tough. And Joe was very emotional. He whispered in my ear, "I hate growing up." It broke my heart. </div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VsZ4Yra7olA/YLwLq5zSfbI/AAAAAAAAMDs/r-w2dCqNpbAxFFYiHbTCM8vI6Oo_Jp91QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/191117242_544241843652458_3514525787124804531_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VsZ4Yra7olA/YLwLq5zSfbI/AAAAAAAAMDs/r-w2dCqNpbAxFFYiHbTCM8vI6Oo_Jp91QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/191117242_544241843652458_3514525787124804531_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>As Joe walked away to his barracks he kept turning around every 10 feet to see if we were still there. This image is burned in my brain.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_LbcAnLEGfc/YLwLqbt6EhI/AAAAAAAAMDk/w8b-DGkEMc8iqdLg2qPpLuYLmdHIddFTgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/190432242_185344650177638_2073795175308544058_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_LbcAnLEGfc/YLwLqbt6EhI/AAAAAAAAMDk/w8b-DGkEMc8iqdLg2qPpLuYLmdHIddFTgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/190432242_185344650177638_2073795175308544058_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was very difficult leaving Joe after only a few hours. And we have no idea when we might be able to see him again. However, Joe was able to get his phone back and would be able to send sporadic texts to us from time to time. That was a luxury we have not had for months. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We flew home on Friday night. When we got home Joe had sent us a text saying that a friend had told him the message he made (that I posted to Facebook and sent to his principal) was played at the Baccalaureate ceremony for the graduating seniors that evening. Apparently all of his classmates were thrilled with the video and loved seeing him in uniform. We were all completely overwhelmed with the show of support for Joe from the principal and the school.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVXeR3K_Bdc/YLwUL7z1BjI/AAAAAAAAME0/gVqqtCSx8WwVXGHlD6ctPT3nz25AYShjgCNcBGAsYHQ/s961/192728439_2772707453040788_7971357146430081376_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVXeR3K_Bdc/YLwUL7z1BjI/AAAAAAAAME0/gVqqtCSx8WwVXGHlD6ctPT3nz25AYShjgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/192728439_2772707453040788_7971357146430081376_n.jpg" /></a></div>This is the Baccalaureate ceremony, held outside because of covid, watching Joe's message.<p></p><p>Today was Joe's graduation. Obviously he couldn't be there. Joe has always dreamed of walking the graduation ceremony in a military uniform but because of covid he was unable to come home. Our family went to the graduation ceremony anyway to support his friends and classmates. We definitely weren't expecting this reaction when Joe's name was called. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzVgynCwJsy2lbGe52rElhPnk3R3bF-rLdXT5jiFZ-gzYg903q9FK2rryTT8VkL9Qis2EqkCAR2bvEXn7mUZg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the professional video put on YouTube so the cheers are a little muffled.</div></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwLRGfBhTYV2b-PGzWpOVIjOqtXSewVtFSu_8rn1PyouenetaH9qYpaukUUWGOJ7W-nD1hV_vU6bgncZOD2SQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is my video. It is kind of all over the place because I was truly shocked by the reaction. I went from cheering and screaming, to mouth hanging open in surprise, to crying. It was overwhelming. I didn't even hear what the announcer said after Joe's name because I was cheering. And then all of a sudden the whole crowd was screaming and cheering for Joe and I was completely taken aback. Still makes me tear up just writing that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was able to send Joe a message about what happened at graduation but he still hasn't been able to view the videos. There isn't very good cell phone reception where he is so the videos aren't working right now. I can't wait until he sees them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It has been a very emotional few days as you can imagine. And my youngest boy will be graduating from 8th grade on Tuesday so I'm sure I'll be a big baby about that too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Parenthood. I tell ya. It's not for the faint of heart. </div></div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-58372915311866463902021-05-20T18:24:00.006-05:002021-05-25T00:06:45.882-05:00What A Year<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It has been almost exactly a year since I last posted on my blog. I can guarantee you that this was not intentional. It has just been a super crazy year, as I'm sure you all can agree. Add to that the fact that Facebook and Instagram and SnapChat all make it easy to post quick little snapshots of my life and this poor blog has taken a backseat. Still, I have loved having this blog to document my family's life and I'm sad that I have not kept it up. So, this is my attempt to get this blog up to date. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The last I wrote I had graduated from nursing school. Right after that my mom had into the hospital at St. Luke's in Milwaukee (about an hour from my house). Mom needed a valve replacement but it was tricky because of calcium deposits that had built up around the valve. Specialists went back and forth as to whether or not the procedure could be done. My mom was in the hospital (by herself because of the no visitor policy due to Covid) for close to a month as doctors decided how to proceed. It was rough, to say the least. In the end, mom had the valve replacement and was back home on June 6th. She is doing well as doctors continue to monitor both her heart and her cancer (that she has had for the past 15 years).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On June 8th I began my new job as a nurse in the Emergency Department at the hospital near my house. Starting as a brand new nurse in the emergency department is tough. Add to that the fact that I was starting in the middle of a pandemic and you can imagine how hectic and stressful it was. It was crazy. Baptism by fire, so to speak. Still, I had an amazing preceptor and I managed to survive and thrive. I passed my NCLEX exam at the end of June, officially becoming a Registered Nurse. My orientation lasted for 6 months (and I had to work full time during orientation regardless of the fact that I was hired for a casual position) and then I was on my own. I am still looking forward to the time when I am confident in all my skills and trust myself completely. I am not there yet. But my coworkers are supportive and wonderful and always there to help. I am very lucky.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iuLgXi1t-wg/YJAatHhNMZI/AAAAAAAAL64/K_1N5PT0zWgmnM5dyu3XkfKZQd8eCDCuQCNcBGAsYHQ/s480/1p.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="366" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iuLgXi1t-wg/YJAatHhNMZI/AAAAAAAAL64/K_1N5PT0zWgmnM5dyu3XkfKZQd8eCDCuQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1p.jpg" /></a></div><div>My boss kept trying to get me to accept a full time position but I didn't want to lose my casual status. With casual I can set my hours, no weekends or holidays. But there are no benefits. My boss actually created a part time position for me, which I ended up accepting at the beginning of this year. The insurance is amazing and is a huge help since Todd and I always had to buy our own insurance since he is self employed. But I have to work some holidays and weekend now. Oh well. Life is a trade off.</div><div><br /></div>In July, Joe decided to sign up with the Marines. He had been working out with the Marine poolees for months and wanted to be the squad leader. The only way he could qualify to be squad leader would be to enlist with the Marines. Joe was still only 17 so Todd and I both had to sign. It was tough but we did it. Joe has ALWAYS wanted to join the military and we have always been supportive. Joe is a planner and really wanted to get going on the process. We decided to support him.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u8OEuL4yqi0/YJAayTU5m_I/AAAAAAAAL68/l5MNhUwd_mYWTF9kad9pKT9mqb6JLKXqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1334/115801800_10157110692641150_2641581040758933662_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="1334" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u8OEuL4yqi0/YJAayTU5m_I/AAAAAAAAL68/l5MNhUwd_mYWTF9kad9pKT9mqb6JLKXqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/115801800_10157110692641150_2641581040758933662_n.jpg" /></a></div>However, we did not anticipate everything moving so quickly. After Joe enlisted he decided he was going to graduate high school a semester early so he could leave for the Marines early. I was not happy about this as I have always wanted to hold on to my kids as long as possible. I have dreaded my kids growing up and moving away since the moment they were born. However, I also know they need to live their own lives and I will NEVER get in the way of their dreams. So I got on board. I tried to be enthusiastic. Joe would graduate high school in January and most likely ship out in March or April.<div><br /></div><div>We tried make the most of our time together as a family of six. We spent as much time together making memories as we possibly could. We went to all of our favorite spots.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OoYkaDDgjcc/YJAa5jkzp0I/AAAAAAAAL7Q/IPuzJ4BSjC0m9_g0YVSc9SiZQeW-PyfZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1440/115616643_10157121008831150_518844113062043530_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OoYkaDDgjcc/YJAa5jkzp0I/AAAAAAAAL7Q/IPuzJ4BSjC0m9_g0YVSc9SiZQeW-PyfZgCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/115616643_10157121008831150_518844113062043530_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">We went swimming together and took a lot of family walks.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZEhvHfWiuro/YKPmHHLejqI/AAAAAAAAMAk/xN_qoBt70NYYqZ3FpTByDnOZY1ZF6MCLACNcBGAsYHQ/s1440/117858172_10157176244896150_8483273859659913243_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="1440" height="315" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZEhvHfWiuro/YKPmHHLejqI/AAAAAAAAMAk/xN_qoBt70NYYqZ3FpTByDnOZY1ZF6MCLACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h315/117858172_10157176244896150_8483273859659913243_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And of course we went up north to our cabin as much as possible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oOJjAjf-xC8/YJAa5rM_3gI/AAAAAAAAL7M/E-cpUmjihy4OgPSMJlj30_kVOpCddKLWACNcBGAsYHQ/s960/120272160_10157258306481150_5035241337203998706_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="960" height="303" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oOJjAjf-xC8/YJAa5rM_3gI/AAAAAAAAL7M/E-cpUmjihy4OgPSMJlj30_kVOpCddKLWACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h303/120272160_10157258306481150_5035241337203998706_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Tommy got his first deer bow hunting. It was pretty exciting.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bfVX5vRmULU/YJAa9JbF-GI/AAAAAAAAL7c/VOC8bFXmQQwZunlm7OwgGFQqeS7NLEqDgCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/120134612_10157258306531150_107347890291153023_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bfVX5vRmULU/YJAa9JbF-GI/AAAAAAAAL7c/VOC8bFXmQQwZunlm7OwgGFQqeS7NLEqDgCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/120134612_10157258306531150_107347890291153023_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">And Grace decided to try and give hunting a shot this year too. She got her first buck in one smooth shot. A ballerina and a hunter. She is quite a girl!</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wjx7Si_lqY0/YJAa9Ns8_2I/AAAAAAAAL7g/vgpWEGVZF5oinJNB1z04J1syv2oVQhsrQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1008/121081512_10157287079816150_4441842167646292192_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1008" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wjx7Si_lqY0/YJAa9Ns8_2I/AAAAAAAAL7g/vgpWEGVZF5oinJNB1z04J1syv2oVQhsrQCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/121081512_10157287079816150_4441842167646292192_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">We had a nice Halloween even though it was socially distanced. We went to the pumpkin farm, went trick or treating, and of course, carved pumpkins.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6IXQxCuoAII/YJAa5XaSVrI/AAAAAAAAL7I/f5QDjJFp8cU653dqOP_IX9hTM9lKLYwTACNcBGAsYHQ/s960/123575301_10157329241271150_730991898590237456_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6IXQxCuoAII/YJAa5XaSVrI/AAAAAAAAL7I/f5QDjJFp8cU653dqOP_IX9hTM9lKLYwTACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/123575301_10157329241271150_730991898590237456_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div>This year since we couldn't get together with family we had Thanksgiving up north at the cabin. It was actually really nice. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U0pZF90W4vc/YJAbrNCqxTI/AAAAAAAAL74/XN7MiIm69_EjUCLpEa0_pz5e_DysqZujQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/180726074_768526367182370_6703006425056303706_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U0pZF90W4vc/YJAbrNCqxTI/AAAAAAAAL74/XN7MiIm69_EjUCLpEa0_pz5e_DysqZujQCNcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/180726074_768526367182370_6703006425056303706_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>We were happy that Todd's mom was able to join us up north for Thanksgiving. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OfBlyFVgNYk/YJAbrB4b-kI/AAAAAAAAL78/mFvB3Vg7rSwpwEXN6jYhdEGokrN_iO8JACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/182069020_270641104728912_9070753748844886325_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OfBlyFVgNYk/YJAbrB4b-kI/AAAAAAAAL78/mFvB3Vg7rSwpwEXN6jYhdEGokrN_iO8JACNcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/182069020_270641104728912_9070753748844886325_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Thanksgiving was up north but Christmas was still at home. The whole family even wore matching pajamas for me. They weren't happy about it but they did it. It was our Christmas card this year. I love it SO much. My favorite. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lXd2g9n9iU/YJAa5n8sdwI/AAAAAAAAL7U/7XJnv0vRioMTUgQ4pEUaWZq0UnHU4NW2QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1440/131905488_10157448790611150_3096360197628429542_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1178" data-original-width="1440" height="328" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lXd2g9n9iU/YJAa5n8sdwI/AAAAAAAAL7U/7XJnv0vRioMTUgQ4pEUaWZq0UnHU4NW2QCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h328/131905488_10157448790611150_3096360197628429542_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div>For Christmas we didn't buy a lot of Christmas presents. Instead we decided to take a family vacation. We figured with Joe leaving for the Marines this would be our last family vacation together for a long time. We decided to do something we'd never done as a family. We went to an all inclusive resort in Punta Cana. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HtpjEC29ETo/YJAbzXMmWsI/AAAAAAAAL8A/mO7j-1KZB3UFXUgvoEl-mFWgg7g5vMipACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/175511821_368863744517179_2857268470369208889_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HtpjEC29ETo/YJAbzXMmWsI/AAAAAAAAL8A/mO7j-1KZB3UFXUgvoEl-mFWgg7g5vMipACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/175511821_368863744517179_2857268470369208889_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>It was AMAZING. The kids' minds were blown. They couldn't believe that they could just ask for a soda and they would just get one. They could walk into a cafe and and just ask for food and get it. Add to that the gorgeous beach, the pools, the catamaran we went on, the awesome weather, and the beautiful rooms. We were in heaven.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fuibZGnqJaw/YJAbzbwoH3I/AAAAAAAAL8E/NG9FzZr6rfU7S2US6Yyf79xv1Efa1zGkACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/179321869_387798405615007_2340799716613988865_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fuibZGnqJaw/YJAbzbwoH3I/AAAAAAAAL8E/NG9FzZr6rfU7S2US6Yyf79xv1Efa1zGkACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/179321869_387798405615007_2340799716613988865_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>They had super cute Christmas decorations. It was so weird for us Wisconsinites to see Christmas decorations with palm trees.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xyO1nTlwbdU/YJAbzpEcZDI/AAAAAAAAL8M/W2exTODKULg2a26GDoGBjUdRupJ8mSImACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/179464413_1106251023205667_4010168483900645331_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xyO1nTlwbdU/YJAbzpEcZDI/AAAAAAAAL8M/W2exTODKULg2a26GDoGBjUdRupJ8mSImACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/179464413_1106251023205667_4010168483900645331_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Outdoor life-sized chess!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qkNlFkqwcOw/YJAbzYfig-I/AAAAAAAAL8I/DLK6c8cOROAy5WRHJTlKrBWohABDeKrygCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/179075856_481575399940540_7379000203145518089_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qkNlFkqwcOw/YJAbzYfig-I/AAAAAAAAL8I/DLK6c8cOROAy5WRHJTlKrBWohABDeKrygCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/179075856_481575399940540_7379000203145518089_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ping pong!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyisJ2K-D-w/YJAe66M8CwI/AAAAAAAAL94/oSU9u-wXpTgtO31GIFtvQkVNS3MmoalggCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/181537488_3931622433612374_3833384503863385211_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyisJ2K-D-w/YJAe66M8CwI/AAAAAAAAL94/oSU9u-wXpTgtO31GIFtvQkVNS3MmoalggCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/181537488_3931622433612374_3833384503863385211_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-53DWZ51fh_E/YJAbzrnp5KI/AAAAAAAAL8Q/tA7Qt2hR6wM4gNa1bdpKNfx-7g0AZLGRwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/179815900_190068069507423_5593744291535163385_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-53DWZ51fh_E/YJAbzrnp5KI/AAAAAAAAL8Q/tA7Qt2hR6wM4gNa1bdpKNfx-7g0AZLGRwCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/179815900_190068069507423_5593744291535163385_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beach volleyball</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--xehv4tRN2s/YJAbzqgb3mI/AAAAAAAAL8U/RL7k4SB4GdEd-OpHsMa9Kke5_JDbSBsPgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/180330347_1821537321360437_1735562611085513728_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--xehv4tRN2s/YJAbzqgb3mI/AAAAAAAAL8U/RL7k4SB4GdEd-OpHsMa9Kke5_JDbSBsPgCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/180330347_1821537321360437_1735562611085513728_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SwfqhBRfPo0/YJAbz5bPvEI/AAAAAAAAL8Y/vYjF-jqfKH0F7MsC9M56cNxNGhlYKFI_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/180534392_129624755822502_8027923200609125261_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SwfqhBRfPo0/YJAbz5bPvEI/AAAAAAAAL8Y/vYjF-jqfKH0F7MsC9M56cNxNGhlYKFI_QCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/180534392_129624755822502_8027923200609125261_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zN74h_W4fMo/YJAcvG5BHlI/AAAAAAAAL9s/JCtsZEng2LYWfYB50fzSRpE60pxFxjJUACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/179793323_134334238710249_2069812029556145921_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zN74h_W4fMo/YJAcvG5BHlI/AAAAAAAAL9s/JCtsZEng2LYWfYB50fzSRpE60pxFxjJUACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/179793323_134334238710249_2069812029556145921_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qRojg__CTyE/YJAcGhH7dvI/AAAAAAAAL9E/Z8hGJnSrKdUiseiQcMmRI3MXpug1m7RAwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/180899744_169753198381893_1345018693808355800_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1267" data-original-width="2048" height="248" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qRojg__CTyE/YJAcGhH7dvI/AAAAAAAAL9E/Z8hGJnSrKdUiseiQcMmRI3MXpug1m7RAwCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h248/180899744_169753198381893_1345018693808355800_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The only downfall was my neck. I had a bulging disc in my neck and was in a fair amount of pain the entire vacation. I tried to be a good sport but it did put a damper on my vacation. I was not able to participate in some of the fun but I still had a great time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We were back in time for New Years Eve at our house. We had our traditional New Year's Eve feast. One last time with all of us. I tried my best not to think that every time we did something together but it was tough. This entire last year that thought was in my head constantly. "This is the last time we will all..."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jki6kCMYiko/YJAb-3ciEoI/AAAAAAAAL8k/RK0xUDkNV34__suz5fT2p6t9n9DEOCjSgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/180446482_2588736058100199_7761801947045239176_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jki6kCMYiko/YJAb-3ciEoI/AAAAAAAAL8k/RK0xUDkNV34__suz5fT2p6t9n9DEOCjSgCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/180446482_2588736058100199_7761801947045239176_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The year 2021 didn't start out much better than 2020. I was still in a bunch of pain from my bulging disc (it took almost 3 months to heal). Strangely enough Todd's neck started to hurt too. Except his pain radiated down to his fingers. He had had issues with his neck before so he immediately went to the doctor. Turns out he had some serious issues and ended getting a spinal fusion of C6 through T1. Yikes.The surgery went well but the healing process takes time. A short time after Todd's surgery his mom tripped down some stairs and broke her hip. I tell ya, our family was the walking wounded!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Joe ended up graduating at the end of January. It felt so anticlimactic. I felt badly. Because of Covid we still couldn't have any party. He had no graduation ceremony. He said he didn't really care, but I did. We tried to make it special anyway.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--W-4TiPTk_E/YKbohCn9ybI/AAAAAAAAMCo/q1P82ELJQ08Ol4sgZP8Gjl38OBpoYOR7wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/186449060_252366180010127_1896326347382266693_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--W-4TiPTk_E/YKbohCn9ybI/AAAAAAAAMCo/q1P82ELJQ08Ol4sgZP8Gjl38OBpoYOR7wCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/186449060_252366180010127_1896326347382266693_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Shortly after Joe graduated we got word that he would be leaving for boot camp much earlier than anticipated. Joe would be leaving around the middle of February. Before he could even turn 18. I tell ya. That was tough news for me to take. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We celebrated Joe's birthday on February 19th. About a week before his actual birthday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DtEOMEsf3CE/YJAcGqsWRXI/AAAAAAAAL9A/XFX4Y07CsVsfOB7FcwYj33N3lMZHEBfywCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/181320797_476849533552318_8583664337441764604_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DtEOMEsf3CE/YJAcGqsWRXI/AAAAAAAAL9A/XFX4Y07CsVsfOB7FcwYj33N3lMZHEBfywCNcBGAsYHQ/w240-h320/181320797_476849533552318_8583664337441764604_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On Sunday the 21st Joe was scheduled to leave. We all tried to prepare to say goodbye.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0weMnD1My_A/YJAcPgtrD-I/AAAAAAAAL9Y/wP8bfXyDfaAtzCMv9yHBDoa0UNwFpPVSgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/179275715_302493788010532_3788147944428785615_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0weMnD1My_A/YJAcPgtrD-I/AAAAAAAAL9Y/wP8bfXyDfaAtzCMv9yHBDoa0UNwFpPVSgCNcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/179275715_302493788010532_3788147944428785615_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JnRir9IH8C0/YJAc1MHUjUI/AAAAAAAAL9w/ZPASvft_Y_MI9Hqa3BiU450eUGgWNDZLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/181029103_945126722695412_5366515541688555444_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JnRir9IH8C0/YJAc1MHUjUI/AAAAAAAAL9w/ZPASvft_Y_MI9Hqa3BiU450eUGgWNDZLQCNcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/181029103_945126722695412_5366515541688555444_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bawYB5sIyEY/YJAcPkLTGEI/AAAAAAAAL9Q/iBe9p8lrq68zPcv7V4ntI8yAnYPHLsqgQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/179596523_1083976252006044_8253993868296852118_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1446" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bawYB5sIyEY/YJAcPkLTGEI/AAAAAAAAL9Q/iBe9p8lrq68zPcv7V4ntI8yAnYPHLsqgQCNcBGAsYHQ/w283-h400/179596523_1083976252006044_8253993868296852118_n.jpg" width="283" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">We mostly tried to be happy for Joe. He was so excited to begin this journey. He had prepared and waited for this for so long. It was a really nice day. We took Joe down to the main recruiting center, got instructions from his recruiter, and then were able to hang out with him for the rest of the night. We had an amazing family dinner together at Olive Garden. We spent the whole time laughing and reminiscing about all our favorite family moments. It was an amazing dinner. One of my all time favorite moments.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Then we had to drive Joe back to his hotel to say goodbye. The moment I had been dreading since he was born. It was one of the hardest things I've had to do.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-24MR6YsrBJk/YJAcPvfpslI/AAAAAAAAL9M/mlGkuoFcqOQvkflS94R_yAGXhzVz8qn0QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1800/180501211_295474208843510_3228507862706320820_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-24MR6YsrBJk/YJAcPvfpslI/AAAAAAAAL9M/mlGkuoFcqOQvkflS94R_yAGXhzVz8qn0QCNcBGAsYHQ/w320-h400/180501211_295474208843510_3228507862706320820_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Needless to say, I cried the whole way home. Joe stayed in the hotel overnight and left early in the morning for his flight to San Diego. Once he got to San Diego he was put into quarantine for two weeks. He basically had to sit in a hotel room by himself for two weeks. No cell phone, no personal items, not even his own clothes. He got two phone calls home during the entire two weeks. At the end of the two weeks he was again tested for Covid and once he was cleared he was taken to the base for boot camp. We received a scripted call from him when he arrived at base. That would be last time we heard his voice in months and months.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We tried to get on with life. It was hard. I know people go through this all the time, but man. It was TOUGH. Joe left such a void in our family. He is such an amazing big brother. The day before he left he spent the entire day with his siblings, taking them out for ice cream, going on a long drive, playing basketball with them. The kids were feeling so lost without him. We all were. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The thought of going on a vacation for spring break, without Joe, was not appealing to any of us. But sitting home staring into space wasn't a good option either. I decided to take the kids to Wisconsin Dells for a few days. Todd couldn't come with us because he was too busy with work. I think that made it a little less weird, in a way, that Joe wasn't with us. We had fun. But it still felt odd.</div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ce8O-Ecf_AE/YKbdZ8UY2gI/AAAAAAAAMBo/yezzUVBtrTQKk9KvFTLVpRSNPI4MACjbgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/187003700_1429356797411110_2163766518346909114_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1527" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ce8O-Ecf_AE/YKbdZ8UY2gI/AAAAAAAAMBo/yezzUVBtrTQKk9KvFTLVpRSNPI4MACjbgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/187003700_1429356797411110_2163766518346909114_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BjnBrnAWW3c/YKbdi35B_SI/AAAAAAAAMBs/4QDn4lkzT8gAZ1BLmUNVB6IyYyM1GpzyQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/186466520_336676431219963_3329508626340155241_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BjnBrnAWW3c/YKbdi35B_SI/AAAAAAAAMBs/4QDn4lkzT8gAZ1BLmUNVB6IyYyM1GpzyQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/186466520_336676431219963_3329508626340155241_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-62_yecYkW88/YKbdiy77QZI/AAAAAAAAMBw/MVODakSbgGMxNq2n-nbW2GWX7yjhlHCgACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/186510220_172774504669041_6995802458058012581_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-62_yecYkW88/YKbdiy77QZI/AAAAAAAAMBw/MVODakSbgGMxNq2n-nbW2GWX7yjhlHCgACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/186510220_172774504669041_6995802458058012581_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LOeNax0jYW8/YKbdi7HCrlI/AAAAAAAAMB0/IUh_J-xdsFU6F2mNtqBy0jpuWExdnZZqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/186541782_503378141075779_8761386751106939357_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LOeNax0jYW8/YKbdi7HCrlI/AAAAAAAAMB0/IUh_J-xdsFU6F2mNtqBy0jpuWExdnZZqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/186541782_503378141075779_8761386751106939357_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The kids' schools were trying to find their new normal too. Fall sports had either been cancelled or postponed. Ben didn't get to play basketball or football. It really stunk for him because he was on two amazing teams that would have absolutely dominated if they had been able to play. He really felt like he got ripped off not being able to play. Not only that but this is his 8th grade year at the school he has attended since preK. Normally, the 8th graders go on an AMAZING trip to Washington DC. They spend all 7th grade year fundraising for the trip. However, this year's trip was cancelled because of Covid. Ben would have no sports, no field trips, and no Washington D.C. It was a super bummer.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Tommy's football season was pushed off until spring. Tommy's football team dominated last year. This year most of them were moved up to the Varsity team. Tommy was not only moved up to Varsity but he was also a starter and made All Conference. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xM4HHkK5DHk/YKbd2FNBrcI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/x6vO7Bsj7VIVXvjkvgbGLeTLXfhfCC55gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1008/185156058_307394287768085_7198356647797171520_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1008" data-original-width="756" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xM4HHkK5DHk/YKbd2FNBrcI/AAAAAAAAMCQ/x6vO7Bsj7VIVXvjkvgbGLeTLXfhfCC55gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/185156058_307394287768085_7198356647797171520_n.jpg" /></a></div>It was a tough transition, however. Tommy's team had played together since they were in 4th grade and learning to play with Juniors and Seniors they had never played with before was a learning process. Still, the Varsity team had the most successful season they have had in almost a decade. This scoreboard is from a game against their crosstown rivals. The game started poorly. Our team was down 0-21 and halftime and ended up coming back and scoring 33 unanswered points to win the game. It was crazy.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JRY2yRREHE/YKbd2P32LfI/AAAAAAAAMCY/xukb8ZDkwXICZNUVynoncqGGrzl_9taZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/186506425_935887463871319_1978632234363454434_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JRY2yRREHE/YKbd2P32LfI/AAAAAAAAMCY/xukb8ZDkwXICZNUVynoncqGGrzl_9taZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/186506425_935887463871319_1978632234363454434_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Tommy was a starter on defense and special teams. And he was even asked to play running back for the last game. He saw a lot of playing time as a sophmore. This pic is one of his nice tackles. Great shot.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_TW3WG_CW2c/YKbd2FC77zI/AAAAAAAAMCU/vRs7vSPnQp0389y0TRvbGFtNz3rT4vZbgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1079/186535844_155219273169560_7587227921732167748_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1079" height="268" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_TW3WG_CW2c/YKbd2FC77zI/AAAAAAAAMCU/vRs7vSPnQp0389y0TRvbGFtNz3rT4vZbgCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h268/186535844_155219273169560_7587227921732167748_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Just last week Todd and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary. We went out to a really nice dinner and then came home and promptly fell asleep on the couch together. Ha! It was actually really nice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bVSzRJGoNng/YKbxtapCLDI/AAAAAAAAMC4/ujnBb48TxvIotWHwqzTmM9UaUB_63hSCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/936658_10151365742461150_712257963_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="746" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bVSzRJGoNng/YKbxtapCLDI/AAAAAAAAMC4/ujnBb48TxvIotWHwqzTmM9UaUB_63hSCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/936658_10151365742461150_712257963_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Which pretty much brings us up to date. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today was a MAJOR day. Today Joe completed The Crucible. The final challenge recruits must face before they become Marines. Today, Joe became a Marine.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oOKpfMu8Dq8/YKPnCXtZdjI/AAAAAAAAMBI/txocn_4lmY0zjLODxqwcNuO1Nu7qCQBowCNcBGAsYHQ/s1070/187187758_10157766158186150_21682302328657436_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1058" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oOKpfMu8Dq8/YKPnCXtZdjI/AAAAAAAAMBI/txocn_4lmY0zjLODxqwcNuO1Nu7qCQBowCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/187187758_10157766158186150_21682302328657436_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the candle we lit for Joe the entire 54 hours that Joe was in the Crucible. Countless prayers were said. It was a VERY emotional day. The last few hours of the Crucible take place in the wee hours of the morning, on 2 hours of sleep, with a 9 mile hike up a mountain carrying 50 pounds of gear. When they get to the top of the mountain they are officially Marines. We knew approximately what time the recruits would finish. We were counting down the whole time, barely able to sleep ourselves. At 8 o'clock this morning (Pacific time) Joe became a Marine.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CBZ5uehfWpY/YKbomVpP1dI/AAAAAAAAMCs/P59T1-_w7_8_8ZuL0Wu3txO9dM5vmhOMACNcBGAsYHQ/s1799/186551753_10157767255366150_3006855274873621056_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1799" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CBZ5uehfWpY/YKbomVpP1dI/AAAAAAAAMCs/P59T1-_w7_8_8ZuL0Wu3txO9dM5vmhOMACNcBGAsYHQ/w320-h400/186551753_10157767255366150_3006855274873621056_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>In less than two weeks we will see him graduate from Marine Corps. boot camp. Graduations have been closed for the entire past year. They have just been reopened. Each recruit only gets 2 visitors to graduation but we are grateful. The kids are sad they can't go but they are happy that at least Todd and I can attend. In two weeks I will see my boy. My Marine. I absolutely can't wait.<div><br /></div><div>It has been a very emotional year. More than I can possibly explain in one blog post. I've struggled emotionally. I don't think I even admitted that to myself until this moment. I have been beyond exhausted and I think it is mostly a bit of depression. So much change, upheaval, in just one year. It's been a lot. But there is so much to be grateful for. And to look forward to. And I'm hopeful.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you, my bloggy friends, are all well. And even though this past year has been a mess I hope you've made it through. With hope.</div>Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-13988409904281673032020-05-20T10:32:00.008-05:002020-05-20T10:32:52.016-05:00Nursing School Graduate!<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">I have been away for a long time. And there is a very reasonable explanation for that. Many, actually. But the biggest reason for my absence was nursing school. The past year has been a beast. And then with the whole Covid quarantine and school going online it got even worse. </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">But! </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">BUT!!!!</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">I'm done!!!! </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">On Friday, May 11th, I took my final nursing school exam. All of my assignments had been submitted. I was DONE. It was a very surreal feeling. And there really was no closer. There was no final walk through the halls of school. No saying goodbye to the lovely ladies in the library, or testing center, or cafeteria that I had gotten to know and love. I was just done.</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #1c1e21; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">To help me celebrate my kids hauled all my books and binders out to the backyard for a little photo opp. Luckily, I only had about half of my books (I rented a bunch and sold a bunch back to the bookstore in the last 3 years) because the pile kept falling over. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dXs8i12cFe0/XsVBsdUzdXI/AAAAAAAALsU/pNdLzBrow2Uh8ZQ5-N5zZpsc7I_zPURNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/96127961_10156910815571150_6260516133636407296_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dXs8i12cFe0/XsVBsdUzdXI/AAAAAAAALsU/pNdLzBrow2Uh8ZQ5-N5zZpsc7I_zPURNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/96127961_10156910815571150_6260516133636407296_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
So, that is me on my very last day of nursing school. Very exciting and anticlimactic at the same time. It was a mix of emotions. It didn't feel real. And for the next week or so I kept having nightmares that I forgot to take a test or hand in an assignment. But it was a busy week with Mother's Day, my anniversary, and graduation so I had a bit to distract me. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My friend and I went out to school to pick up our gowns and medals together. I hadn't been able to see her in a while, so it was so good to hang out with her again. We didn't get to do our typical lunch and drinks to celebrate the end of a semester (or the end of school, for that matter) but at least we got some time together. My other wonderful nursing friend took my cap and decorated it for me. I am so fortunate that I made such amazing friends to go through this with. We started out with 8 of us but only 3 of us made it all the way through (so far). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was able to stop at my mom's house and show her what I looked like in my cap and gown. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O7qOsa6wajE/XsVIwJn1gKI/AAAAAAAALtA/vlKGCCjud9QUWm5sZ9_gYvc4K7_Heh6ZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/100051342_580265032694955_2759573387406737408_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="312" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O7qOsa6wajE/XsVIwJn1gKI/AAAAAAAALtA/vlKGCCjud9QUWm5sZ9_gYvc4K7_Heh6ZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/100051342_580265032694955_2759573387406737408_n.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
<div>
My mom is currently in the hospital awaiting a valve replacement surgery (a story for another time), so any prayers would be greatly appreciated.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Since graduation would just be held virtually I told the boys they could all go up north for the weekend and get the work done that they needed to complete. When I woke up on Saturday morning I wasn't expecting much of the day. However, one of my nursing friends snuck onto my property and decorated my porch and yard with "Congratulations!" signs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_2NcOBHUjO0/XsVCmxRZ8aI/AAAAAAAALs0/MHXOk8k7b4s2cV_5LiK3d89JqkaV10brACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/98005282_10156923983501150_5022547709563764736_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_2NcOBHUjO0/XsVCmxRZ8aI/AAAAAAAALs0/MHXOk8k7b4s2cV_5LiK3d89JqkaV10brACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/98005282_10156923983501150_5022547709563764736_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Not only did she decorate my yard, but she also left chocolate covered strawberries at my door that she had made herself. What a great way to start the day! And shortly after that I received a delivery of beautiful bouquet of flowers from my mom. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXvUkjGKyrM/XsVKCIcZy3I/AAAAAAAALtM/luVG3xTCgFM-1BQNuNET8C9Ycm7di5XbgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/97084740_10156924018636150_7426353468190752768_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oXvUkjGKyrM/XsVKCIcZy3I/AAAAAAAALtM/luVG3xTCgFM-1BQNuNET8C9Ycm7di5XbgCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/97084740_10156924018636150_7426353468190752768_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
PLUS, for any of you that have been reading this blog for a while, you know I love birds. All morning long in my backyard there were tons of birds. And birds that I don't normally see! Orioles, and blue jays, and indigo buntings, and cardinals, as well as sparrows and chickadees. They were everywhere! It felt like a sign. Maybe a message from my dad. All I can say is that it made the day that much more special.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Later on my bestest bud, Jen, came over to watch the virtual graduation with me. I have been with this woman since the first day of the Chemistry class I had to take before I could even begin my prerequisites. I can't tell you what it meant to have her by my side through all of this. I never expected to gain a best friend but that is exactly what happened. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iQmnasj4ktc/XsVLB-R8UKI/AAAAAAAALtc/Eb1Wth4Te-k3wr1ZSMP5b04gQYDBdOTdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/98955762_935429353557585_2121817718008053760_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="297" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iQmnasj4ktc/XsVLB-R8UKI/AAAAAAAALtc/Eb1Wth4Te-k3wr1ZSMP5b04gQYDBdOTdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/98955762_935429353557585_2121817718008053760_n.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
Jen brought her daughter over (who is Grace's same age) so our girls could play together while we watched graduation. It was actually a lot of fun to sit there with Jen and drink wine while watching. And Grace did a great job of getting some fun pics of us too.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kfn-W16qzAs/XsVLB5hrGaI/AAAAAAAALtY/_ey6AciI_G4jQDAY7SYQw28veYw4IFA6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/100474190_564277701161279_3763295789804158976_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="460" height="460" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kfn-W16qzAs/XsVLB5hrGaI/AAAAAAAALtY/_ey6AciI_G4jQDAY7SYQw28veYw4IFA6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/100474190_564277701161279_3763295789804158976_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4a-lMatWUBc/XsVLB7qP6NI/AAAAAAAALtU/8zKVQ8xHCdcgSOoCQ8WaqgWAqksADC1iACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/98181752_468458957283934_5027874753206026240_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="450" height="526" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4a-lMatWUBc/XsVLB7qP6NI/AAAAAAAALtU/8zKVQ8xHCdcgSOoCQ8WaqgWAqksADC1iACPcBGAYYCw/s640/98181752_468458957283934_5027874753206026240_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
After the ceremony was over Steph (the one who decorated my yard and decorated my graduation cap) came over to celebrate with us.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sY09dnh73sU/XsVB8l-1XaI/AAAAAAAALsc/yIrAhYlmTrYNWe9qgooUSLXigLvd6QzHgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/97931089_3124496087611165_8879693263544516608_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="696" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sY09dnh73sU/XsVB8l-1XaI/AAAAAAAALsc/yIrAhYlmTrYNWe9qgooUSLXigLvd6QzHgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/97931089_3124496087611165_8879693263544516608_n.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
Of course we had to get a bunch of pictures of the Three Muskateers who made it all the way through nursing school together. So grateful for these two.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eOX4vrb4wDs/XsVB8jcFuZI/AAAAAAAALsg/QflDu5cNEXoJiaUw5Bh3R5lkHvHfEqy6ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/97978128_3124495317611242_1470056155962146816_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="616" data-original-width="960" height="410" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eOX4vrb4wDs/XsVB8jcFuZI/AAAAAAAALsg/QflDu5cNEXoJiaUw5Bh3R5lkHvHfEqy6ACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/97978128_3124495317611242_1470056155962146816_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Steph actually decorated all of our caps. She is so talented!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4vGqcEMgGY4/XsVB8p2PIOI/AAAAAAAALsY/e_oLtg7hHO03e5pRN13m804YFuGfupdUQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/98013799_3124495987611175_3859198166096150528_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="960" height="380" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4vGqcEMgGY4/XsVB8p2PIOI/AAAAAAAALsY/e_oLtg7hHO03e5pRN13m804YFuGfupdUQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/98013799_3124495987611175_3859198166096150528_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I really wasn't expecting much from the day but it actually turned out to be a wonderful graduation day. It felt really special.<br />
<br />
When Todd and the boys came home on Sunday they came with flowers and balloons. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T7sUMce_ekQ/XsVMp9n7kII/AAAAAAAALt0/5Bp9LDB49UwNfEBWD6MYFu6LjFn7b56kwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/98574664_557670808497564_2990750418725765120_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="286" data-original-width="434" height="420" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T7sUMce_ekQ/XsVMp9n7kII/AAAAAAAALt0/5Bp9LDB49UwNfEBWD6MYFu6LjFn7b56kwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/98574664_557670808497564_2990750418725765120_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
We celebrated with snacks and cake and watching a movie together. It was a fantastic weekend.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8DGob-v8PI/XsVMp4BTWnI/AAAAAAAALtw/Ah6uwkWnNuQ_qMC2LURfc4nn-imukqNuACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/98478433_574376213208501_3566799481233997824_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="480" height="462" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8DGob-v8PI/XsVMp4BTWnI/AAAAAAAALtw/Ah6uwkWnNuQ_qMC2LURfc4nn-imukqNuACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/98478433_574376213208501_3566799481233997824_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
So, I am officially a nursing school graduate. Although, I still have to pass the NCLEX board exam. And that is a tough one. I have already started having nightmares about that test! And I start my new job in the Emergency Department at our local hospital on June 1st. Life is very full at the moment. But I am grateful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UYQRm2eVdvc/XsVB9Nrsm1I/AAAAAAAALsk/ykDG_GC0GMESp-Hs52_zTncHmNh9rvoDQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="327" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UYQRm2eVdvc/XsVB9Nrsm1I/AAAAAAAALsk/ykDG_GC0GMESp-Hs52_zTncHmNh9rvoDQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/profile.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-46406757913736222852019-10-23T08:00:00.000-05:002019-10-24T23:26:10.385-05:00My Amazing MumFourteen years ago my mom was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. She wasn't expected to make it more than a few months. I remember praying to God we'd have more time.<br />
Today my mom is 80 years old. She has defied the odds multiple times over. She is meant to be here and I couldn't be more grateful. My mom is, and always has been, my inspiration.<br />
Happy 80th birthday, mumma!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7OK5rBSWOy0/XbJ5OfPw-zI/AAAAAAAALp0/AqXmE5-fPusYEV9LQpe6ifzv0Ip8ln_qACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/73341342_10156347787956150_7931205295919857664_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7OK5rBSWOy0/XbJ5OfPw-zI/AAAAAAAALp0/AqXmE5-fPusYEV9LQpe6ifzv0Ip8ln_qACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/73341342_10156347787956150_7931205295919857664_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-48013534408948858232019-09-09T15:39:00.001-05:002019-09-10T08:13:45.983-05:00Time Waits For No OneI have sat down to write this post a million times and just became too overwhelmed. It has been almost a year since I last wrote. How on earth can I capture all that has happened in that time? I can't. And I feel incredibly guilty. I don't want those memories to be lost. It is getting harder and harder to know what I can write about as well. So many sweet, personal conversations my kids and I have that I would love to write down so that I can remember, but I also don't want to break their confidence in me. So many exciting and difficult things happening in their lives but some stories are not mine to tell.<br />
<br />
I guess I'll start with my story.<br />
<br />
I finished my first year in nursing school. I sat for my LPN board exams and passed. I am now back in school for my last year to get my RN associates degree. It is incredibly difficult, time consuming, and really, all consuming. Emotionally, mentally, physically. All of it. I question my decision to continue on this path almost daily. Having this past summer with my kids is really making me feel bitter about being back in school. I am going to have to dig really deep to finish this year.<br />
<br />
In being in nursing school there are things that have just fallen to the wayside. A perfectly clean house is one of them. Taking care of myself is another. No more working out and running, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep. I am trying to do better in that area but there is just such a shortage of time. Because of that shortage of time this blog has also been neglected. I have missed writing about milestones, and vacations, and sweet conversations, and momentous events, and trying times, and all the millions of hilarious things my kids have said or done. It makes me so very sad.<br />
<br />
So here I sit, trying desperately to come up with a way to write about all the hundreds of moments I missed writing about in the last 10 months.<br />
<br />
I can't do it. It's impossible. But I must start somewhere. And so for my heart, and my sanity, I'll try my best.<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving and Christmas were both lovely. Filled with lots of food and family. After Christmas we went up north to the cabin for our typical week of skiing. Grace finally felt comfortable venturing around the hill and we were all skiing together as a family for the first time. It was a blast.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zmog_YQsSqc/XXa4nQ7eJGI/AAAAAAAALjo/sguZ_2x38V8MmhNG40K1QQcFyftQpKYqgCLcBGAs/s1600/48364931_10155724759206150_3394790460550545408_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zmog_YQsSqc/XXa4nQ7eJGI/AAAAAAAALjo/sguZ_2x38V8MmhNG40K1QQcFyftQpKYqgCLcBGAs/s640/48364931_10155724759206150_3394790460550545408_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
As a Christmas present we got the kids tickets to their first Bucks game. It was so much fun. The new arena was amazing and the game was fantastic. I love gifts that are more about experiences than stuff and this was a good one.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wglsia-9j-I/XXa4sLKVaYI/AAAAAAAALjs/yWkeooc2NS0RBEiOVPtTOXEUoPq1yGbpQCLcBGAs/s1600/57511585_10155931629141150_972479216853450752_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="852" data-original-width="960" height="568" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wglsia-9j-I/XXa4sLKVaYI/AAAAAAAALjs/yWkeooc2NS0RBEiOVPtTOXEUoPq1yGbpQCLcBGAs/s640/57511585_10155931629141150_972479216853450752_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The winter months were long and cold and full of tons of snow. We had a lot of snow/cold days when school was cancelled. It was an icky winter and a blah spring. The boys all had their birthdays in February in March and turned 16, 14, and 12. The kids' spring break and my spring break from school doesn't match up so once again we couldn't really do anything. The kids went up north to the cabin with Todd for their spring break and I stayed home and went to school. However, because of no spring vacations Todd and I were intent on planning a fabulous trip that we could take as a family in summer.<br />
<br />
In May Tommy and his 8th grade class took their class trip to Washington D.C. It was an amazing trip for him. Very memorable.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMs_0nCAQzA/XXa5BXWbkwI/AAAAAAAALj8/bEJ3_sWGtq0LYxen4jPIEaZk9dnhIOh5wCLcBGAs/s1600/58754948_10155967441121150_985067083098226688_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="606" data-original-width="454" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMs_0nCAQzA/XXa5BXWbkwI/AAAAAAAALj8/bEJ3_sWGtq0LYxen4jPIEaZk9dnhIOh5wCLcBGAs/s320/58754948_10155967441121150_985067083098226688_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lb2U4lwHUZc/XXa5BQsVPcI/AAAAAAAALj4/6snUhVfqhr0A69prSDKCYJQ1v7mT34tOgCLcBGAs/s1600/67944492_2085087628263186_4708580858582269952_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="1480" height="155" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lb2U4lwHUZc/XXa5BQsVPcI/AAAAAAAALj4/6snUhVfqhr0A69prSDKCYJQ1v7mT34tOgCLcBGAs/s320/67944492_2085087628263186_4708580858582269952_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AP8bgOC8dW4/XXa5BbL8aVI/AAAAAAAALkA/Y5VESCYfH8YIOxzj-37CoRIWVjW5sQc9QCLcBGAs/s1600/68607608_2433342833376032_473362218436526080_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AP8bgOC8dW4/XXa5BbL8aVI/AAAAAAAALkA/Y5VESCYfH8YIOxzj-37CoRIWVjW5sQc9QCLcBGAs/s320/68607608_2433342833376032_473362218436526080_n.jpg" width="155" /></a></div>
In June Tommy graduated from 8th grade after eleven years at the same school. At graduation he was awarded the Christian Leadership Award for demonstrating and living Christianity. Very proud mama.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TQ_ZD2aCH-I/XXa5KNUeHmI/AAAAAAAALkE/QPDrzuPEERwBlgHDutrCoulOroTIBtWrgCLcBGAs/s1600/62451310_10156054480736150_1625865629451943936_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TQ_ZD2aCH-I/XXa5KNUeHmI/AAAAAAAALkE/QPDrzuPEERwBlgHDutrCoulOroTIBtWrgCLcBGAs/s400/62451310_10156054480736150_1625865629451943936_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
About a week after the kids were out of school we took our much anticipated summer trip. Twenty years ago Todd and I took a friendly trip to London and Paris that changed our relationship and the course of our lives. We decided to go back to London and Paris and this time take our 4 children with us. It was amazing<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjvQwCJ1YI0/XXa5WUm7FkI/AAAAAAAALkM/nIj0ApgIjXQbwTHyJSS2Mxw5CCzCrsAEACLcBGAs/s1600/64955455_10156080934796150_8230883469312393216_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="960" height="582" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjvQwCJ1YI0/XXa5WUm7FkI/AAAAAAAALkM/nIj0ApgIjXQbwTHyJSS2Mxw5CCzCrsAEACLcBGAs/s640/64955455_10156080934796150_8230883469312393216_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uieq-mH-i8U/XXa5WSn5xuI/AAAAAAAALkU/FOAdSjMsTIoVXNKeuc4l0oPp1yEjfUFHgCLcBGAs/s1600/64999361_10156080930021150_4249550799983607808_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uieq-mH-i8U/XXa5WSn5xuI/AAAAAAAALkU/FOAdSjMsTIoVXNKeuc4l0oPp1yEjfUFHgCLcBGAs/s640/64999361_10156080930021150_4249550799983607808_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qu54GV7siJw/XXa5WZnECzI/AAAAAAAALkQ/7GVMt_8ogdUvRp1-_uOCWEfoPIsTSmNqwCLcBGAs/s1600/65040729_10156080930271150_3286117604594286592_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="613" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qu54GV7siJw/XXa5WZnECzI/AAAAAAAALkQ/7GVMt_8ogdUvRp1-_uOCWEfoPIsTSmNqwCLcBGAs/s640/65040729_10156080930271150_3286117604594286592_n.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PiMCwhB3V-A/XXa5W5QFopI/AAAAAAAALkY/2IBYMfTFiN8DCOiJk-TeMqKU-6R88vDqgCLcBGAs/s1600/65045025_10156080935901150_8659486171404959744_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PiMCwhB3V-A/XXa5W5QFopI/AAAAAAAALkY/2IBYMfTFiN8DCOiJk-TeMqKU-6R88vDqgCLcBGAs/s640/65045025_10156080935901150_8659486171404959744_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oRFH0330JOI/XXa5XQiJ0TI/AAAAAAAALkg/p9OVGnOrwxwy7X0yn-7pZH8sDTor1g2RQCLcBGAs/s1600/65469360_10156080933811150_3333342951857192960_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oRFH0330JOI/XXa5XQiJ0TI/AAAAAAAALkg/p9OVGnOrwxwy7X0yn-7pZH8sDTor1g2RQCLcBGAs/s640/65469360_10156080933811150_3333342951857192960_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FLuzIoE0eeY/XXa5X3RI49I/AAAAAAAALkk/CabjnPFY08QnmCkMv4p5R7s7csvy1-bGwCLcBGAs/s1600/65776098_10156080937271150_3014769391968452608_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="960" height="478" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FLuzIoE0eeY/XXa5X3RI49I/AAAAAAAALkk/CabjnPFY08QnmCkMv4p5R7s7csvy1-bGwCLcBGAs/s640/65776098_10156080937271150_3014769391968452608_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYA4SYrKj6c/XXa5XO_ByqI/AAAAAAAALkc/eddfm1QW-7kHyH2HllHypwcNV9zBgpy6ACLcBGAs/s1600/65219922_10156084615271150_8587345791872401408_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="794" data-original-width="960" height="528" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYA4SYrKj6c/XXa5XO_ByqI/AAAAAAAALkc/eddfm1QW-7kHyH2HllHypwcNV9zBgpy6ACLcBGAs/s640/65219922_10156084615271150_8587345791872401408_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It was fantastic to have the kids finally meet our wonderful friend, David, whom they had heard so much about.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Rsu9hgABvQ/XXa8Mx7lwFI/AAAAAAAALk8/9-_cjySFedgxdPL8zC6oHSPrKH757ICQQCLcBGAs/s1600/65043033_10156080933926150_4391603647843139584_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Rsu9hgABvQ/XXa8Mx7lwFI/AAAAAAAALk8/9-_cjySFedgxdPL8zC6oHSPrKH757ICQQCLcBGAs/s640/65043033_10156080933926150_4391603647843139584_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEY0oXMWTto/XXa9agxa88I/AAAAAAAALlQ/NfQ8CqQvoIQRjchK8zWralE5pQKiMaCPgCLcBGAs/s1600/67415192_353554945312099_8804677240198529024_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="756" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEY0oXMWTto/XXa9agxa88I/AAAAAAAALlQ/NfQ8CqQvoIQRjchK8zWralE5pQKiMaCPgCLcBGAs/s640/67415192_353554945312099_8804677240198529024_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It was a trip of a lifetime. I don't think any of us will ever forget it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RwjDB9ph2QY/XXa-A_kPJUI/AAAAAAAALl8/xr-ZRaU0S68CkXony0S9TNiQI4NZ1CqfQCLcBGAs/s1600/67078698_330652024483433_5536575150805221376_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="720" height="234" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RwjDB9ph2QY/XXa-A_kPJUI/AAAAAAAALl8/xr-ZRaU0S68CkXony0S9TNiQI4NZ1CqfQCLcBGAs/s320/67078698_330652024483433_5536575150805221376_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Grace and I trying to figure out how to work this washing machine. It was making weird noises.)</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybiFl7iheYo/XXa8Raq1pII/AAAAAAAALlA/PHxEhL00y7AbMWh-CtdRX9sL-m0iS-RhACLcBGAs/s1600/68245443_2209342225993160_5497952073280389120_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="672" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybiFl7iheYo/XXa8Raq1pII/AAAAAAAALlA/PHxEhL00y7AbMWh-CtdRX9sL-m0iS-RhACLcBGAs/s640/68245443_2209342225993160_5497952073280389120_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It is incredibly difficult to find accommodations for a family of 6 but we managed to find a beautiful flat located right in Notting Hill. We loved it. It was really hard to leave.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M7plDbYqRp8/XXa9Ux-tcpI/AAAAAAAALlM/KM8g7voE3fw2B-nHEX8hgugPVzy-IMW5ACLcBGAs/s1600/67634963_1035202750016409_5414163175505395712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M7plDbYqRp8/XXa9Ux-tcpI/AAAAAAAALlM/KM8g7voE3fw2B-nHEX8hgugPVzy-IMW5ACLcBGAs/s320/67634963_1035202750016409_5414163175505395712_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
When we got back home it was back to school (for me- I had an online class for summer to lighten my fall load) and back to work. Joe had just gotten his first job at Menards working on loading and unloading (heavy lifting). When we weren't working and studying we were swimming, going up north, and lazing around. It was a nice summer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PBD46LV2sBY/XXbAB2eX7ZI/AAAAAAAALnA/BYJQd0Q4aB49582M39PmzBF9prNqKmyuACLcBGAs/s1600/69720230_394467624779752_8800254845517824_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="756" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PBD46LV2sBY/XXbAB2eX7ZI/AAAAAAAALnA/BYJQd0Q4aB49582M39PmzBF9prNqKmyuACLcBGAs/s640/69720230_394467624779752_8800254845517824_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
We also managed to make a trip to Madison. We just love that city and it was so fun walking around there for the day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-296NvVIDcGE/XXa9ijnh6AI/AAAAAAAALlU/ubisjQVpspAPdxFIWTZxPnnxYZ5WYBvGQCLcBGAs/s1600/67588443_10156162203291150_36726093549404160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="661" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-296NvVIDcGE/XXa9ijnh6AI/AAAAAAAALlU/ubisjQVpspAPdxFIWTZxPnnxYZ5WYBvGQCLcBGAs/s640/67588443_10156162203291150_36726093549404160_n.jpg" width="440" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UjKdTDI5d3g/XXa9iuN7tuI/AAAAAAAALlc/8HfBkoGhEw8RFqSWEl23fo7BYsBEgAbQwCLcBGAs/s1600/67797848_10156162202261150_2760335348964786176_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="653" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UjKdTDI5d3g/XXa9iuN7tuI/AAAAAAAALlc/8HfBkoGhEw8RFqSWEl23fo7BYsBEgAbQwCLcBGAs/s640/67797848_10156162202261150_2760335348964786176_n.jpg" width="434" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">We even managed to go to the zoo. The last time we were at that zoo was over 10 years ago. My how time flies.</span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EZnVmykrN1A/XXa9imz_zDI/AAAAAAAALlY/OwI4abMvdOIs272gFcD90bYm4GzLsdsxQCLcBGAs/s1600/67941606_10156162203446150_2792024438013427712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EZnVmykrN1A/XXa9imz_zDI/AAAAAAAALlY/OwI4abMvdOIs272gFcD90bYm4GzLsdsxQCLcBGAs/s640/67941606_10156162203446150_2792024438013427712_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Joe also got his driver's license. Very exciting stuff. A job, a girlfriend, a license. The kids was having a great summer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fOww29Zb-uk/XXa9pQLRk8I/AAAAAAAALlg/dGGIsZ9_4Ggz2LMT2dD61sfhGTjsTRI4wCLcBGAs/s1600/67642267_10156153130421150_9141137169916624896_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fOww29Zb-uk/XXa9pQLRk8I/AAAAAAAALlg/dGGIsZ9_4Ggz2LMT2dD61sfhGTjsTRI4wCLcBGAs/s400/67642267_10156153130421150_9141137169916624896_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ieI8toTBmg/XXa93PZyBgI/AAAAAAAALl0/Fdc1Sjnjxfg32Vs0U9Qe6N-bnjwRO-68gCLcBGAs/s1600/67533058_10156153130476150_8299197733063884800_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ieI8toTBmg/XXa93PZyBgI/AAAAAAAALl0/Fdc1Sjnjxfg32Vs0U9Qe6N-bnjwRO-68gCLcBGAs/s400/67533058_10156153130476150_8299197733063884800_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Right before her 10th birthday Grace got her braces on. Before she could get her braces she actually had to have 4 adult molars pulled because of her extremely tiny mouth. Poor kid. She handled it like a champ. She is a tough kid.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-etyDQXdJTEA/XXa-OIcsD0I/AAAAAAAALmE/_MJXWhVueYooS1ygYXmoeR3FtvUzViOuQCLcBGAs/s1600/68616011_10156202829686150_3617599534072332288_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-etyDQXdJTEA/XXa-OIcsD0I/AAAAAAAALmE/_MJXWhVueYooS1ygYXmoeR3FtvUzViOuQCLcBGAs/s320/68616011_10156202829686150_3617599534072332288_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For her 10th birthday she was adamant that she did not want a big birthday party like her brothers had. Instead she wanted a day at the waterpark with her family. So that is what we did. The next day Grace and I had a little campout in a tent in our backyard. I think it was a pretty good birthday for her.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cvEZf9cuoKU/XXa-ZSDwXxI/AAAAAAAALmM/WXM_ayv9tcU0EeAxhH86ONSeaDouV8wLACLcBGAs/s1600/68727361_10156190377701150_5002967928618876928_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cvEZf9cuoKU/XXa-ZSDwXxI/AAAAAAAALmM/WXM_ayv9tcU0EeAxhH86ONSeaDouV8wLACLcBGAs/s640/68727361_10156190377701150_5002967928618876928_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Before we knew it summer was coming to an end. It was back to school. Now I have two kids in high school and two kids still at the grade school. 11th, 9th, 7th, and 5th grades.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IQRU4pN4Zes/XXa-i-qb6HI/AAAAAAAALmU/gdAa1K5siZY-WwJbdIHc3yEA1LsNjbtZQCLcBGAs/s1600/69456672_869739170075709_6979309185846476800_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1160" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IQRU4pN4Zes/XXa-i-qb6HI/AAAAAAAALmU/gdAa1K5siZY-WwJbdIHc3yEA1LsNjbtZQCLcBGAs/s640/69456672_869739170075709_6979309185846476800_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
These two are so happy to be going to the same school again. Here they are on the first day of high school together and the first day of kindergarten and 3K.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DxsbvDt5GNA/XXa-pZbH3EI/AAAAAAAALmY/LG_VUd6j50c9WCwTdWCd-bEWS0PxEplSwCLcBGAs/s1600/69602505_10156231293901150_6469946641729191936_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DxsbvDt5GNA/XXa-pZbH3EI/AAAAAAAALmY/LG_VUd6j50c9WCwTdWCd-bEWS0PxEplSwCLcBGAs/s640/69602505_10156231293901150_6469946641729191936_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
These two are the only ones left at our beloved grade school. Aww.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kBaXNue-vE4/XXa-uPAn6kI/AAAAAAAALmg/jrfCJT1taMMhVZUUKEQt70ceot8dV62jwCLcBGAs/s1600/69462347_10156231294061150_6133994862476787712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kBaXNue-vE4/XXa-uPAn6kI/AAAAAAAALmg/jrfCJT1taMMhVZUUKEQt70ceot8dV62jwCLcBGAs/s640/69462347_10156231294061150_6133994862476787712_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Now we are back into the swing of things again. In the thick of it, I should say. Tommy and Ben are in football. Grace is in dance. Joe just made varsity for cross country. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZtNesuUwAw/XXa-ySbZw3I/AAAAAAAALmk/IIWRc_bctC860ExYZevHqJS2RsIorqPlQCLcBGAs/s1600/69274259_10156219754911150_1210435463207190528_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YZtNesuUwAw/XXa-ySbZw3I/AAAAAAAALmk/IIWRc_bctC860ExYZevHqJS2RsIorqPlQCLcBGAs/s320/69274259_10156219754911150_1210435463207190528_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Life just keeps flying by. I'm doing the best I can to try and keep up but I feel I just keep lagging behind. I'm hoping to do a much better job documenting my family's daily life so that when I am old and gray (alright, I'm already mostly there) I can come back and read how magical and lovely and hard and fabulous and trying and wonderful this life really was.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RrP815PjIiM/XXa-2DoT1xI/AAAAAAAALms/DsLLdUGHiBAMFmOFqYMe75tRZH0xuAORQCLcBGAs/s1600/61408225_10156029063156150_2263462591219105792_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RrP815PjIiM/XXa-2DoT1xI/AAAAAAAALms/DsLLdUGHiBAMFmOFqYMe75tRZH0xuAORQCLcBGAs/s640/61408225_10156029063156150_2263462591219105792_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-14883171155418015012018-11-04T09:23:00.002-06:002018-11-04T20:01:00.283-06:00Picture Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here I am! I'm still alive! I've been wanting to post for a while now but I just couldn't find the time. Now that I have an extra hour this morning I figured I'd better take the opportunity to post while I can.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We've had a busy few months. Of course the kids started back to school in September. They continue to grow and now two of my children are taller than me and the third is quickly gaining on me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cJDavaTgr4E/W98DfAe4brI/AAAAAAAALb4/POtl_A0aap0g15e1vec7WcBJVAcaULZ8ACLcBGAs/s1600/40803958_10155500386246150_8489786752205062144_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="642" data-original-width="960" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cJDavaTgr4E/W98DfAe4brI/AAAAAAAALb4/POtl_A0aap0g15e1vec7WcBJVAcaULZ8ACLcBGAs/s640/40803958_10155500386246150_8489786752205062144_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Molly and I often walk down to the end of the street to meet up with the kids getting off the bus when they come home from school. It's Molly's favorite part of the day. <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YFm2Midxi7s/W98Djoj_77I/AAAAAAAALb8/UwVuczYtOgMePEAV8vjrEtYWF8r85NFmQCLcBGAs/s1600/BeFunky-collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YFm2Midxi7s/W98Djoj_77I/AAAAAAAALb8/UwVuczYtOgMePEAV8vjrEtYWF8r85NFmQCLcBGAs/s640/BeFunky-collage.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
I am back in school again as well. Although, I took a summer class so it wasn't like I was gone very long anyway. This semester's course load is pretty heavy. I guess they all will be for the next two years. It can be pretty overwhelming but I continue to do well. I don't know how. I feel like I can barely keep track of what is due when but I somehow get it done. My biggest struggle is to try and be the mom I want to be while being in school. It's tough. The kids were so used to their stay at home mom and I know I can't do everything the same way I used to. I don't like that. There is nothing more important to me than my family. I don't like how much time school sucks away from them. I'm still working on finding a good balance to make it all work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8KZwcg0AYno/W98DqruT_nI/AAAAAAAALcA/_Z4DrN5hbXclnIMCuYYzNoXtBEgN10tRQCLcBGAs/s1600/42822543_10155562862246150_1182841092899340288_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8KZwcg0AYno/W98DqruT_nI/AAAAAAAALcA/_Z4DrN5hbXclnIMCuYYzNoXtBEgN10tRQCLcBGAs/s640/42822543_10155562862246150_1182841092899340288_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The boys were in fall sports again. Tommy and Ben played football and Joe was in cross country.<br />
<br />
Tommy's team was amazing and only lost one game all season. They even went to the playoffs. A great way to end their youth football "careers". Next time Tommy plays football it will be in high school. Oh my. Where does time go? Tommy is a defensive back but also played on special teams and a bit of wide receiver on offense.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30aV8nKHBHc/W98DuLBBHqI/AAAAAAAALcE/cPXntAsHLzgjLFxUF9wxqQ2sbEo0DJEIwCLcBGAs/s1600/44136685_10155579018731150_1885173923465658368_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="719" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30aV8nKHBHc/W98DuLBBHqI/AAAAAAAALcE/cPXntAsHLzgjLFxUF9wxqQ2sbEo0DJEIwCLcBGAs/s640/44136685_10155579018731150_1885173923465658368_n.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
Ben's team had a winning season as well. Ben was in for almost every single play of every game. He plays on offense (sometimes wide receiver, sometimes quarterback), defense, kick off, and special teams.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYHdHK58xMw/W98DvjA6aRI/AAAAAAAALcM/v3YO24RgZh0PXOeGI2dF3x7qv-peIwzwgCLcBGAs/s1600/43879883_10155579018961150_6443173924434870272_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYHdHK58xMw/W98DvjA6aRI/AAAAAAAALcM/v3YO24RgZh0PXOeGI2dF3x7qv-peIwzwgCLcBGAs/s640/43879883_10155579018961150_6443173924434870272_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Joe had a tough cross country season. He really did a great job of working out year round and during summer his run times were amazing. Then, right before the first time trial he got a nasty cold. It hung on for weeks (we all got it and suffered through it for weeks as well). How he ran at all is a mystery to me, but his times definitely suffered. Finally he kicked the cold. His times started coming down. For four meets in a row he PR'd finally getting his time into the teens as he planned. Then he got another cold for the last meet. He ran anyway. Shortly after this pic was taken at the last meet he started shaking uncontrollably and was kind of breaking down. Really freaked out his coach and teammates. I came back and picked him up, gave him some food, and he was fine. But I guess he pushed himself a bit too much. All in all, I think it is a season he can be proud of.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--BkkWrjXMkA/W98Dxej-KPI/AAAAAAAALcQ/c1QNvtH6Vtgh6d7gNxOfmyvlkAlYRcxrQCLcBGAs/s1600/44177277_10155589120176150_4239519633280860160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="960" height="534" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--BkkWrjXMkA/W98Dxej-KPI/AAAAAAAALcQ/c1QNvtH6Vtgh6d7gNxOfmyvlkAlYRcxrQCLcBGAs/s640/44177277_10155589120176150_4239519633280860160_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Grace went to the Heritage School with her fourth grade class. It is something she has been looking forward to for a very long time. I ordered a "Laura Ingalls Wilder" outfit for her and it turned out pretty well. She definitely looked the part. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-adCLFmBtbxk/W98D0a3tU9I/AAAAAAAALcU/6M7grDf2weoVqx04aLElThdg0SJNa5uZQCLcBGAs/s1600/44579680_10155597306296150_2831852833685372928_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-adCLFmBtbxk/W98D0a3tU9I/AAAAAAAALcU/6M7grDf2weoVqx04aLElThdg0SJNa5uZQCLcBGAs/s640/44579680_10155597306296150_2831852833685372928_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
After waiting years to be an altar server Ben finally finished his training and was able to serve for the very first time. And, he was able to serve with his brothers! It was so wonderful sitting in the pew watching all three of my boys up at the altar together. It was a proud mama moment. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a7LOEe5wJok/W9-j-XJiq3I/AAAAAAAALdE/-5Z7Lx_mxe0NuQkWLgmMcYi8-uWFjNEhgCLcBGAs/s1600/43392419_10155566670076150_3323570973545857024_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a7LOEe5wJok/W9-j-XJiq3I/AAAAAAAALdE/-5Z7Lx_mxe0NuQkWLgmMcYi8-uWFjNEhgCLcBGAs/s320/43392419_10155566670076150_3323570973545857024_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Todd and I went to his best friend's wedding a few weeks back. It was the first time he and I have gotten away alone together for a long time. We missed the boys' last football games of the season (which was really difficult for us because Todd is the coach and it was against the cross-town rivals; but both of our boys' teams won). Luckily, Joe was texting me updates on the games. Todd's sister and mom drove the kids around all day but it was the first time the kids stayed alone overnight. They did great. And Todd and I had an amazing time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eZxqrwNmElA/W98D24VZhGI/AAAAAAAALcY/AJwXRA9acbcaaq6J_ZsVeyY4NDreKiarwCLcBGAs/s1600/44083295_10155580282606150_230465578576379904_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="582" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eZxqrwNmElA/W98D24VZhGI/AAAAAAAALcY/AJwXRA9acbcaaq6J_ZsVeyY4NDreKiarwCLcBGAs/s640/44083295_10155580282606150_230465578576379904_n.jpg" width="388" /></a></div>
<br />
The wedding was beautiful and it was a fabulous day. It was so much fun hanging out with the whole gang again. It had been too long.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CTt1QPoEOEk/W98D4zGZ1pI/AAAAAAAALcc/WZenH_ta4ckhASvYudBNsd14J_A_CHyhACLcBGAs/s1600/44110759_10155989801308435_6572092023568859136_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CTt1QPoEOEk/W98D4zGZ1pI/AAAAAAAALcc/WZenH_ta4ckhASvYudBNsd14J_A_CHyhACLcBGAs/s640/44110759_10155989801308435_6572092023568859136_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I just recently started clinicals (on top of my regular classes as well) for nursing school. I now have to get up at 4:30 in the morning to get out to the long term facility by 5:45. I am not a morning person. It's not easy getting up that early. And my nerves kind of kick my butt. Hopefully that will ease as I gain more confidence.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SHzAZOz43jg/W98EVMRv0RI/AAAAAAAALc4/_wYayb9cKVcND_IX6h4RuaPiQ_ZRtSNWgCLcBGAs/s1600/45347955_10155614219101150_4222816655790571520_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="783" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SHzAZOz43jg/W98EVMRv0RI/AAAAAAAALc4/_wYayb9cKVcND_IX6h4RuaPiQ_ZRtSNWgCLcBGAs/s640/45347955_10155614219101150_4222816655790571520_n.jpg" width="522" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Luckily, I have two of my good school friends in my clinical group and we even carpool together in the morning. It is so good to have them there with me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YU82Jcq6cLw/W98D9XWq82I/AAAAAAAALcg/Uy0YSV4UoLoCazgGrWSZJdCv1aIPI0JowCLcBGAs/s1600/45273643_1187077671443874_21987496661352448_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YU82Jcq6cLw/W98D9XWq82I/AAAAAAAALcg/Uy0YSV4UoLoCazgGrWSZJdCv1aIPI0JowCLcBGAs/s640/45273643_1187077671443874_21987496661352448_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Life sounds all rosy and lovely from the recap but there is sadness and stress as well. My mom has stopped her cancer meds. Last year the meds she was on (that worked for 13 years) stopped working. Her cancer cell counts had gone back up. The doctor tried a few other meds (there are not too many options) and this last one was making her completely miserable. She can barely walk a few steps without having to heave for breath. She feels like she can barely move. She can't sleep at night because she can't breath. Her immune system is way down so she can't leave the house. She has no energy to leave even if she wanted to. It is no way to live. She has had to quit choir, she can't even go to church, she can't take her dog for walks, she can barely get up to go to the bathroom. Last week she told the doctor that she was done with the meds. Now the doctor just wants to make her as comfortable as possible for as long as possible. I was hopeful that her quality of life would return when she went off the meds but so far she still feels awful.<br />
<br />
Of course, if you've read my blog for any length of time you know how important my mom has always been to me. We are incredibly close. I've always considered her my best friend. This news has been tough on me, to say the least. But I respect her decision. I get it. She has been fighting this cancer for 13 years. And through it all she was always able to remain her. Five mile walks through the woods every day, always at church/choir, volunteering at the hospital, hanging out with her friends, doing yardwork, running errands, and being independent. It hasn't been like that for a long time. Even if the new meds would have work (which they weren't doing a great job anyway) this is no way for her to live. When she finally told her doctor that she was stopping treatment she was so relieved. She was so happy with the decision. Thirteen years ago when her diagnosis first came she was very ill in the hospital. We didn't think she would make it a few months. While she was unconscious she had an experience with Jesus. She talks about it often. She didn't want to stay on earth but Jesus wanted her to. She wasn't done here. So she agreed to come back. She took care of my dad through his Alzheimer's, saw the birth of two more of her grandbabies, witnessed First Communions, many holidays, birthdays, her son's wedding, and many celebrations. We are blessed and lucky that we received another 13 years with her. But she's had a good talk with God again and she feels this is the right thing to do. I hope we have her for a few more years (if her quality of life returns) but I doubt it. I have no idea how this is going to go. It could go quickly. I have no idea. Honestly, I try not to think about it too much.<br />
<br />
So, this is heavy on my heart. I don't really know what to do with it all right now so I just put it to the side and carry on. Life happens as it should, I suppose. I just pray I can be there for my mom as she needs me to be. I pray I can be there for everyone I love. Life gets so crazy, and I have so much on my plate, but nothing is more important to me than loving my family. I just want to be there.<br />
<br />
I hope all is well with you, my lovely friends. I hope life is treating you well and that health and happiness surround your lives and your families. Please keep my mom in your prayers (if you are the praying kind), and I will continue to pray for you all, my friends.Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-46809716866514899522018-08-19T16:11:00.000-05:002018-08-19T16:11:09.592-05:00A Night to Remember<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DAM5gE7tTCU/W3nYdCfa2SI/AAAAAAAALY4/DAwEHGPQ9BMGq1MK9QqXepIIyF9wq7-cACLcBGAs/s1600/39283938_10155460338796150_594934398780964864_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DAM5gE7tTCU/W3nYdCfa2SI/AAAAAAAALY4/DAwEHGPQ9BMGq1MK9QqXepIIyF9wq7-cACLcBGAs/s640/39283938_10155460338796150_594934398780964864_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A night to remember and a chance of lifetime. The kids' very first Packer game and Ben was chosen to play with his 6th grade team on Lambeau Field at halftime. How amazing is that? Ben's team was fantastic and scored 14-0. Two of his teammates even got to do a Lambeau Leap!!! What a fabulous night!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CfTHkLCa-pA/W3nYqlmKvpI/AAAAAAAALZI/4lDyvP4Df1sfX_eLhsIrinrSb6pTzosigCLcBGAs/s1600/39395231_10155460430366150_3679264243556810752_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CfTHkLCa-pA/W3nYqlmKvpI/AAAAAAAALZI/4lDyvP4Df1sfX_eLhsIrinrSb6pTzosigCLcBGAs/s640/39395231_10155460430366150_3679264243556810752_o%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We were able to tailgate with the team before the game.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-88x_nZE_YA0/W3nZN7OH_YI/AAAAAAAALZY/8eZiGGgm7CwX2xPSzDUCUWL1KGAtIC5zACLcBGAs/s1600/20180816_173844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-88x_nZE_YA0/W3nZN7OH_YI/AAAAAAAALZY/8eZiGGgm7CwX2xPSzDUCUWL1KGAtIC5zACLcBGAs/s640/20180816_173844.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We took a ton of photos. And of course, being Catholic Packer fans we had to get our picture taken with the pope. ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ozYSCagSq4/W3nYqM-f_1I/AAAAAAAALZA/Pmn4hZHc5s0odnZ6nP4URFpTEB2y4rLJgCLcBGAs/s1600/39333422_10155459577571150_1850233767512244224_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ozYSCagSq4/W3nYqM-f_1I/AAAAAAAALZA/Pmn4hZHc5s0odnZ6nP4URFpTEB2y4rLJgCLcBGAs/s640/39333422_10155459577571150_1850233767512244224_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Before we knew it it was time for Ben and his team to take their places and for us to get to our seats.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1N28FE7RYHg/W3nYqEUjF8I/AAAAAAAALY8/IjW7bJooIjIzBVrj9OP24fifiGeawg8qACLcBGAs/s1600/39389001_10155459577666150_851741746223120384_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1N28FE7RYHg/W3nYqEUjF8I/AAAAAAAALY8/IjW7bJooIjIzBVrj9OP24fifiGeawg8qACLcBGAs/s640/39389001_10155459577666150_851741746223120384_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Ben was full of excited nerves as he lined up to enter Lambeau and wait for his big entrance out of the tunnel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3j9SMOgi4Xk/W3nYqLsBBVI/AAAAAAAALZE/CiPDdhexuTgSZnogwAGxTs47X_QWz0lcACLcBGAs/s1600/39394569_10155459577791150_5641021741762347008_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3j9SMOgi4Xk/W3nYqLsBBVI/AAAAAAAALZE/CiPDdhexuTgSZnogwAGxTs47X_QWz0lcACLcBGAs/s640/39394569_10155459577791150_5641021741762347008_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We had amazing seats on the 50 yard line and I was able to snap quite a few pics of Ben and his team on the field. The boys were allowed to line up on the field for the national anthem and then they went back to the tunnel and got high fives and "good luck"s from the Packer players as they entered the stadium. Pretty amazing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d1s8lOMUJQc/W3nabItnavI/AAAAAAAALZk/CdKit-pM-EM-_UWt7XIJPQwy2wJl8ScLACLcBGAs/s1600/BeautyPlus_20180816183805065_save.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d1s8lOMUJQc/W3nabItnavI/AAAAAAAALZk/CdKit-pM-EM-_UWt7XIJPQwy2wJl8ScLACLcBGAs/s640/BeautyPlus_20180816183805065_save.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The boys took the field at halftime and they played like pros.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NI3YKKBaplk/W3nayO79AZI/AAAAAAAALZ4/OGEtdRbhuTg4ZBldoc9U3FSr2qN3VAHYgCLcBGAs/s1600/39467641_10155459577991150_7982245647883436032_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NI3YKKBaplk/W3nayO79AZI/AAAAAAAALZ4/OGEtdRbhuTg4ZBldoc9U3FSr2qN3VAHYgCLcBGAs/s640/39467641_10155459577991150_7982245647883436032_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our boys scored two touchdowns in 5 plays for a final score of 14-0. It was so fun to watch.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gw3wh-Fql-c/W3naxpjENWI/AAAAAAAALZw/R1mBgFC5I0UoYHNXmZDFZ_gjTn8YpLkewCLcBGAs/s1600/39393098_10155459577891150_7904285750873554944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gw3wh-Fql-c/W3naxpjENWI/AAAAAAAALZw/R1mBgFC5I0UoYHNXmZDFZ_gjTn8YpLkewCLcBGAs/s640/39393098_10155459577891150_7904285750873554944_n.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Two of Ben's teammates even got to do a Lambeau Leap.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rIBG-1tz8j8/W3naxq6yXjI/AAAAAAAALZs/iKrdWKaM9DgxWEicJTHPqsJBbgM66gTHQCLcBGAs/s1600/39274589_10155459578076150_4410659898044448768_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rIBG-1tz8j8/W3naxq6yXjI/AAAAAAAALZs/iKrdWKaM9DgxWEicJTHPqsJBbgM66gTHQCLcBGAs/s640/39274589_10155459578076150_4410659898044448768_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course they had a little help from the fans and a coach who gave them a boost. It was a blast to watch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8jB3tmaMooI/W3naxhsR5eI/AAAAAAAALZ0/KZLjzvKNRAMpLETLRNBEbdaubvHNCo41wCLcBGAs/s1600/39402047_10155459578121150_8718195105871167488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="824" data-original-width="824" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8jB3tmaMooI/W3naxhsR5eI/AAAAAAAALZ0/KZLjzvKNRAMpLETLRNBEbdaubvHNCo41wCLcBGAs/s640/39402047_10155459578121150_8718195105871167488_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was just such a perfect experience. The weather was great and the rain held off. We had great seats. The coaches, heads of the Youth Football program, and volunteer helpers did an amazing job organizing everything and preparing the players. The Packers organization did a tremendous job making this something the kids (and coaches and families) will never forget. The kids came out the Packers tunnel, were on the field for the national anthem, stood in the tunnel when the players ran out, got high fives and "good luck!"s from many of the players, and had a really supportive crowd to cheer them on as they played. AMAZING!!!! Not to mention that the Packers gave us a win too. Kudos goes out to Tommy who has been nothing but supportive and happy for Ben even though I know he was dying to be out there on that field playing with his team. All my kids (and myself) just had the most fabulous time at their first Packers game and were so grateful to be there. So good.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-90344578375820706942018-08-14T15:29:00.000-05:002018-08-14T15:31:22.009-05:00Swiftly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvgI2_NABx0/W3M6sUqxXoI/AAAAAAAALYc/aqxHKg_YYZ8WGExN_RiK-mVQtbtUOSMVQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180814_145947_665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvgI2_NABx0/W3M6sUqxXoI/AAAAAAAALYc/aqxHKg_YYZ8WGExN_RiK-mVQtbtUOSMVQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_20180814_145947_665.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
"The days are long but the years are short."<br />
<br />
Truer words were never spoken. I have ALL of my kids together, in my care, under my roof, for only a few more years. Already I can feel a slight pulling away as friends and schedules and classes and practices take up more and more of our precious family time. I long for summers past when nothing was more exciting than a day, together, swimming at the lake.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g1XS-cUIJv4/W3M64Ummi4I/AAAAAAAALYg/frSD2d3UqXEe4smN98fPsbPGQYNIWnF0ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180814_145947_659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g1XS-cUIJv4/W3M64Ummi4I/AAAAAAAALYg/frSD2d3UqXEe4smN98fPsbPGQYNIWnF0ACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_20180814_145947_659.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8hwZtnV0puE/W3M68yOdp0I/AAAAAAAALYk/kVeGnOl_02wnasdUUglaKmG7kuzN060OACLcBGAs/s1600/20180814_140552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8hwZtnV0puE/W3M68yOdp0I/AAAAAAAALYk/kVeGnOl_02wnasdUUglaKmG7kuzN060OACLcBGAs/s400/20180814_140552.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
At least I can still bribe them with the promise of a malt cup.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEcfacc4FPE/W3M7Z_a6MlI/AAAAAAAALYs/KokXH-IZPqcXCh8SJjRCrTHqMIWSXr94wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180814_145947_668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEcfacc4FPE/W3M7Z_a6MlI/AAAAAAAALYs/KokXH-IZPqcXCh8SJjRCrTHqMIWSXr94wCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_20180814_145947_668.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-53168989004343445932018-07-30T09:58:00.001-05:002018-07-30T09:58:56.980-05:00My Little Piece of Heaven<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bh0rINRorcI/WzlQUFymUmI/AAAAAAAALX4/-TrO77QcCV0YuB04Pq_OmPQVZq_Dum9YwCEwYBhgL/s1600/35235735_10155321175056150_1281882162571771904_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1080" height="526" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bh0rINRorcI/WzlQUFymUmI/AAAAAAAALX4/-TrO77QcCV0YuB04Pq_OmPQVZq_Dum9YwCEwYBhgL/s640/35235735_10155321175056150_1281882162571771904_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
When I'm searching for a little peace there is nothing better than a gorgeous morning on my patio with a cup of coffee, the birds singing, and my dog.Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-28280599787849227432018-07-12T10:31:00.000-05:002018-07-12T10:31:37.295-05:00Rhubarb Jam<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-joWPZDAkOdw/WzlQTMaWQxI/AAAAAAAALX0/x4BqrpL2TGsoKMSNXXSR2OTRHgdwVmyNwCEwYBhgL/s1600/35333134_10155323843901150_7339137912363024384_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-joWPZDAkOdw/WzlQTMaWQxI/AAAAAAAALX0/x4BqrpL2TGsoKMSNXXSR2OTRHgdwVmyNwCEwYBhgL/s640/35333134_10155323843901150_7339137912363024384_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Everyone knows that certain foods can transport you right back to your childhood. For me, rhubarb jam is one of those foods. It was always an absolute favorite of mine. A special treat. Just thinking about it is making my mouth water.<br />
<br />
I've always talked about rhubarb jam to my kids but they had never had a chance to try it. A couple of years ago I decided to remedy that and I planted rhubarb in my garden. You can't harvest the rhubarb for the first couple of seasons so this was the first year I could actually harvest and use the rhubarb.<br />
<br />
I made the jam, and as predicted, it was a hit. A new favorite. Thank goodness I planted a lot of rhubarb. I will be making this all summer long.<br />
<br />
The recipe is my grandmother's and it is ridiculously easy.<br />
<br />
8 cups of rhubarb<br />
4 cups of sugar (I try to cut the amount of sugar down if possible)<br />
6 oz strawberry jell-o<br />
<br />
Peel and destring the rhubarb and cut into small chunks.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BlnMQ3XU5cw/WzlaVdbhneI/AAAAAAAALYA/OraYQJbXrXIALUZxhnMynPjgt3hoKGZ6QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BlnMQ3XU5cw/WzlaVdbhneI/AAAAAAAALYA/OraYQJbXrXIALUZxhnMynPjgt3hoKGZ6QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4161.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Boil rhubarb and sugar on the stove (I add about a cup of water- just enough to coat bottom of kettle) for approximately 3-4 minutes until the rhubarb is tender.<br />
Turn off heat and add jell-o.<br />
Pour jam into jars and allow to cool.<br />
Jelly can be refrigerated or frozen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pi2vGpqlJpQ/WzlbGLuFwLI/AAAAAAAALYI/_cQjzKqVGc4GL1SeOK7GnjupJtaD4rhbwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pi2vGpqlJpQ/WzlbGLuFwLI/AAAAAAAALYI/_cQjzKqVGc4GL1SeOK7GnjupJtaD4rhbwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4163.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-12395940670124196592018-07-01T17:35:00.001-05:002018-07-01T17:55:11.611-05:00Summer's Start<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The kids last day of school was June 8 and I took the traditional "last day of school" photo. I was not going to do the side by side comparison photo because I honestly didn't want to see it. This year has gone by faster than any year of my life and I did not want to see proof of time's passage in pictures. But I did it anyway. I don't know why. And, once again, I was shocked at the kids' growth in one short school year. It is pretty amazing. And sad. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eil-yvmsNkM/WzlN-3y5q7I/AAAAAAAALW0/OIPU4bmHW8gpf59pdaZB-ji4HFxeWm6SwCLcBGAs/s1600/BeFunky-collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eil-yvmsNkM/WzlN-3y5q7I/AAAAAAAALW0/OIPU4bmHW8gpf59pdaZB-ji4HFxeWm6SwCLcBGAs/s640/BeFunky-collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
They are all growing up far too quickly. I can't even begin to explain how melancholy these two photos, side by side, make me feel. Ugh.<br />
<br />
The weekend after school let out Grace had her dance recital. This was Grace's first year with Dollhouse Dance Company and she really enjoyed it. And let me tell you, they go all out for the end of the year dance recital. It is HUGE. This dance company only started four years ago and already they have made a national (and world) name for themselves. They have won nationals for the last three years and placed, 2nd and 3rd at worlds this year and last. That is for their competitive hip hop group. Grace is currently taking contemporary dance and she loves it. It is her thing. I must say, she is a natural.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y0ag1Pb1SYo/WzlOoNKRBjI/AAAAAAAALW8/-RYUjMlcF4MWi6AEorq3tRb5FngpzEssgCLcBGAs/s1600/Grace2%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y0ag1Pb1SYo/WzlOoNKRBjI/AAAAAAAALW8/-RYUjMlcF4MWi6AEorq3tRb5FngpzEssgCLcBGAs/s640/Grace2%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
A couple friends of mine were at the recital and sent me a few photos. I was actually in the moment and didn't take any photos or videos (I did order the video, however). I love this photo!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TiunNwo7z_g/WzlOtL0RVyI/AAAAAAAALXA/RRNMyW3Zg2QOlaHYHzDkcOXHUwyzJZ6pwCLcBGAs/s1600/34862742_10217381268349924_819664881757192192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="1600" height="358" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TiunNwo7z_g/WzlOtL0RVyI/AAAAAAAALXA/RRNMyW3Zg2QOlaHYHzDkcOXHUwyzJZ6pwCLcBGAs/s640/34862742_10217381268349924_819664881757192192_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
In the photo above Grace is 2nd from the left and in the picture below she is in the center.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yBgmI-Di8rc/WzlOuYddNWI/AAAAAAAALXE/5qdSXmU7S9YMZbmVVHEYz7ZrwuHwUqBvQCLcBGAs/s1600/34841042_10105473778191688_2500605362177048576_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yBgmI-Di8rc/WzlOuYddNWI/AAAAAAAALXE/5qdSXmU7S9YMZbmVVHEYz7ZrwuHwUqBvQCLcBGAs/s640/34841042_10105473778191688_2500605362177048576_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The girl is a natural dancer. Everyone was saying how she stood out. I must agree. She did a great job! She was so proud to have her brothers there cheering her on. She is so often at their football/basketball games that it is nice to have them there for her. The grandmas really enjoyed the show too. It was so much fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As for the rest of our summer (so far), I am trying to get in as much fun and relaxation as possible. It is difficult because I am taking a class this summer as well. It is a CNA course and I am in clinicals at a nursing home. I start at 5:45 in the morning and I'm done at 2:30. Long, hard day but it is just a few times a week. And I will be done in a few weeks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the meantime we are soaking in all of the summer goodness. The kids and I have been trying to do all of our favorites like walks out to the lighthouse, the farmers market, and swimming at our favorite little lake when the temperatures finally got hot enough. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dCYVDsv4wwc/WzlP3ZNEpyI/AAAAAAAALXc/s5kYOh6z154TDmZ22bHCQfb8TBPyFm_wwCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%252810%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dCYVDsv4wwc/WzlP3ZNEpyI/AAAAAAAALXc/s5kYOh6z154TDmZ22bHCQfb8TBPyFm_wwCLcBGAs/s640/FullSizeRender%2B%252810%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Todd and the boys have gone up to the cabin a number of times. Grace and I have gone up as well but last two weekends we stayed home and had some quality ladies time. Last weekend we went to Strawberry Fest in Cedarburg. It is one of my favorites and I hadn't been there in years. I used to live there so it is always fun for me to visit and show the kids my old apartment and stomping grounds.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W8Xdpu57tgc/WzlQRgFL9KI/AAAAAAAALXk/eob3z4CD5z051Pdeshf2y7vejbs8yeA0wCLcBGAs/s1600/BeFunky-collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="872" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W8Xdpu57tgc/WzlQRgFL9KI/AAAAAAAALXk/eob3z4CD5z051Pdeshf2y7vejbs8yeA0wCLcBGAs/s640/BeFunky-collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This weekend Grace and I had time to ourselves again. The temperature was close to 100 all weekend so we bought a pool and set it up in the backyard. It was fabulous! We also went to the farmer's market, swam all day at the lake, and ate at our favorite restaurants. It was a fabulous weekend. Tomorrow we will drive up north to join the boys at the cabin for the entire week. It is a perfect summer break.<br />
<br />
After this week it will be back to the grind of school and work. But I will continue to try and make this summer fun and memorable for us all. I only have these kids all together for a few more summers. I have to make the most of it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5OiGOh4Y7lU/WzlbWAEWlZI/AAAAAAAALYQ/zj9rxS9XB9ksO4vINGwOnOA8Uw9tSouHgCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%252815%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5OiGOh4Y7lU/WzlbWAEWlZI/AAAAAAAALYQ/zj9rxS9XB9ksO4vINGwOnOA8Uw9tSouHgCLcBGAs/s640/FullSizeRender%2B%252815%2529.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-64043529619671036972018-05-28T09:54:00.001-05:002018-05-28T17:47:18.860-05:00Making Up For Lost TimeI think I've forgotten how to blog.<br />
<br />
I haven't posted about Christmas,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4v8p4kl7PdI/WwwNSHH4spI/AAAAAAAALUc/oit7nNWnqCcFYehnW7HdS0qcdGk34BPzQCLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4v8p4kl7PdI/WwwNSHH4spI/AAAAAAAALUc/oit7nNWnqCcFYehnW7HdS0qcdGk34BPzQCLcBGAs/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
or Easter (when I couldn't get a decent pic),<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oYJxv0XMUtg/WwwONfozVZI/AAAAAAAALUk/_EGqX8Z-UQUBnK3dSAx8xq9VqkrQ39UkACLcBGAs/s1600/29595156_10155170948346150_8257319274147392464_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oYJxv0XMUtg/WwwONfozVZI/AAAAAAAALUk/_EGqX8Z-UQUBnK3dSAx8xq9VqkrQ39UkACLcBGAs/s640/29595156_10155170948346150_8257319274147392464_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cMKKXhiuJVs/WwwOOgL9PEI/AAAAAAAALUo/vTCNpX-DA9EZjs-jL1FGBYY-nUTGt-cGQCLcBGAs/s1600/29594419_10155170948351150_8317179264816367990_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cMKKXhiuJVs/WwwOOgL9PEI/AAAAAAAALUo/vTCNpX-DA9EZjs-jL1FGBYY-nUTGt-cGQCLcBGAs/s640/29594419_10155170948351150_8317179264816367990_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-ywt711SnM/WwwOPrr5kGI/AAAAAAAALUs/SHkcwF5i-3wf3sXC7v87WIDpTzCBWf-fgCLcBGAs/s1600/29594864_10155170948341150_3799933785860736832_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-ywt711SnM/WwwOPrr5kGI/AAAAAAAALUs/SHkcwF5i-3wf3sXC7v87WIDpTzCBWf-fgCLcBGAs/s640/29594864_10155170948341150_3799933785860736832_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
or any of the major holidays.<br />
<br />
I didn't post about the kids' school musical this year (Aladdin),<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VimW0eL7n_M/WwwOfmcW7bI/AAAAAAAALU8/nri8rIWDu-0plERAPNL8S1Gs3uN13M_3gCLcBGAs/s1600/30705700_10155196698101150_1972635748423172096_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="719" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VimW0eL7n_M/WwwOfmcW7bI/AAAAAAAALU8/nri8rIWDu-0plERAPNL8S1Gs3uN13M_3gCLcBGAs/s640/30705700_10155196698101150_1972635748423172096_n.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
or Joey's first season on the trap team at his high school (and being named Rookie of the Year),</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R19Hv0Q_CXc/WwwPsMHWQNI/AAAAAAAALVE/YeDU62WKzs44p1uE9tDuRDxz7P0G76NEgCLcBGAs/s1600/33900795_10155287753441150_9089329414671433728_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="852" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R19Hv0Q_CXc/WwwPsMHWQNI/AAAAAAAALVE/YeDU62WKzs44p1uE9tDuRDxz7P0G76NEgCLcBGAs/s400/33900795_10155287753441150_9089329414671433728_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
or about Ben getting his braces on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ddHwtOnYf3I/WwwP04C82mI/AAAAAAAALVI/dSm14YFLZZIENpQoAkMmH7HolNENg8mDwCLcBGAs/s1600/33897402_10155287753401150_6548742794641408_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="848" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ddHwtOnYf3I/WwwP04C82mI/AAAAAAAALVI/dSm14YFLZZIENpQoAkMmH7HolNENg8mDwCLcBGAs/s400/33897402_10155287753401150_6548742794641408_n.jpg" width="297" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are so many things that I never posted about. Our sweet little guinea pig died, which may sound silly but Stanley was more like a tiny dog than a pig.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zypNWo3obW4/WwwQeUnCv0I/AAAAAAAALVU/DeZk_wGoORohoK-Z1QHbsraAQ-88cEzmwCLcBGAs/s1600/31403424_10155226581791150_7229674060869795840_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zypNWo3obW4/WwwQeUnCv0I/AAAAAAAALVU/DeZk_wGoORohoK-Z1QHbsraAQ-88cEzmwCLcBGAs/s400/31403424_10155226581791150_7229674060869795840_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So much of my life has been consumed with school that I have not had any spare time to do much of anything else. When I do have spare time I use it trying to do something fun with the kids. I have so much guilt about not being the kind of mom that they have become accustomed to. This year in school has been so taxing on me, emotionally and physically. I haven't been volunteering at their school, baking treats, or been quite as focused as I normally am. It has been a real struggle. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We didn't even get a spring break together this year. The kids had spring break for one week and I had my spring break from school the week before. It was such a bummer. Todd was able to take the kids up north to the cabin for spring break while I was in school, but I missed it all. As many of you know, I hate to miss out on ANYTHING with the kids. That was hard. I know I only have all of my kids together for a few more years. And those years are whizzing by. I don't want to miss any of it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But here we are now. I finished my first year of school. I got a 4.0 for the entire year. Something I didn't think was possible. I'm proud of myself. And my family is proud of me too. Still, I question my timing. I have a couple of weeks off and then I start my summer class. Just as the kids are getting out of school I will be starting again. It stinks. And then when school starts in fall it will really be tough. In fall I will be starting all my core nursing classes plus clinicals. It is going to be rough. And I just pray that this will all be worth it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This extended weekend has helped a bit. We took the kids up north and had a great time. It was quite the all American redneck weekend. I wouldn't necessarily consider us rednecks but we certainly look like it from the pictures. We were shooting, riding four wheelers, playing cornhole, fishing, kayaking, swimming, boating, and having bonfires and s'mores<span id="goog_704557966"></span><span id="goog_704557967"></span>. It was a grand old time. The weather was supposed to be rainy all weekend but instead it was hot and humid and sunny. It was perfect!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e14UM23JDxM/WwwU5V46b4I/AAAAAAAALVg/vb1oSYTLf-MBSFKagHzxd0IQ3M3ncQgqwCLcBGAs/s1600/33781978_10155287787136150_3482281912192466944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e14UM23JDxM/WwwU5V46b4I/AAAAAAAALVg/vb1oSYTLf-MBSFKagHzxd0IQ3M3ncQgqwCLcBGAs/s640/33781978_10155287787136150_3482281912192466944_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0UAOoFOK--A/WwwU68EPtYI/AAAAAAAALVk/i-kMMGyjTpc83DP3SlD1BqMo1Oe6V98eQCLcBGAs/s1600/33848331_10155287786986150_7132481618136006656_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0UAOoFOK--A/WwwU68EPtYI/AAAAAAAALVk/i-kMMGyjTpc83DP3SlD1BqMo1Oe6V98eQCLcBGAs/s640/33848331_10155287786986150_7132481618136006656_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R3xzZ59PSjw/WwwU7tJcUJI/AAAAAAAALVo/-gcdIETHzV4w2biXlVkErt_uM4jooqSGACLcBGAs/s1600/33864184_10155287786976150_3868881792635240448_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R3xzZ59PSjw/WwwU7tJcUJI/AAAAAAAALVo/-gcdIETHzV4w2biXlVkErt_uM4jooqSGACLcBGAs/s640/33864184_10155287786976150_3868881792635240448_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EgAWvErrvoA/WwwU8ZBybNI/AAAAAAAALVs/qje0CdZ6VGQkBOoak154oOp3n3ouBTKrwCLcBGAs/s1600/33745181_10155287787016150_8654817709457932288_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EgAWvErrvoA/WwwU8ZBybNI/AAAAAAAALVs/qje0CdZ6VGQkBOoak154oOp3n3ouBTKrwCLcBGAs/s640/33745181_10155287787016150_8654817709457932288_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S22lyl1nqJI/WwyG4JmC0SI/AAAAAAAALWk/qp4SBMNn8-AhFntcVhEXnjqDKWXAvMfDQCLcBGAs/s1600/33833402_10155288616651150_2067835837432725504_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="717" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S22lyl1nqJI/WwyG4JmC0SI/AAAAAAAALWk/qp4SBMNn8-AhFntcVhEXnjqDKWXAvMfDQCLcBGAs/s640/33833402_10155288616651150_2067835837432725504_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MdfjvYTtQvo/WwwVBREnSBI/AAAAAAAALV0/rJQ1rbgaAxkuziyl5EoRzQ_VZ_qvJFevgCLcBGAs/s1600/33827373_10155287786811150_2815265605563711488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MdfjvYTtQvo/WwwVBREnSBI/AAAAAAAALV0/rJQ1rbgaAxkuziyl5EoRzQ_VZ_qvJFevgCLcBGAs/s640/33827373_10155287786811150_2815265605563711488_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WgnkQRrZXwI/WwwXO_tfv_I/AAAAAAAALWQ/wXbcaWCKL30ZzBOZOOT47jHYxaA1cY8PwCLcBGAs/s1600/33572898_10155282769356150_4772375004262170624_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="947" height="510" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WgnkQRrZXwI/WwwXO_tfv_I/AAAAAAAALWQ/wXbcaWCKL30ZzBOZOOT47jHYxaA1cY8PwCLcBGAs/s640/33572898_10155282769356150_4772375004262170624_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SeLY5xm-EJM/WwwXPji6JmI/AAAAAAAALWU/OcwIlZO7bMEuPNJvid5BKun7eE5Zq8tWwCLcBGAs/s1600/33674523_10155287822801150_969567757307740160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SeLY5xm-EJM/WwwXPji6JmI/AAAAAAAALWU/OcwIlZO7bMEuPNJvid5BKun7eE5Zq8tWwCLcBGAs/s640/33674523_10155287822801150_969567757307740160_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We were definitely trying to make up for lost time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As summer approaches that will be my goal. I will concentrate on school when I can and spend as much time soaking up my family as possible. These kids just keep growing and getting older and I don't want to miss a single minute.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-21767360541335336762017-11-28T13:44:00.000-06:002017-12-09T12:00:36.846-06:00Time Gone By<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's almost the beginning of December. Months have gone by and I haven't written at all. It's not that I didn't want to, or that I didn't have anything to write, but spare time has been in short supply these days. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Football season ended and the boys moved on to basketball. Joe tried something new this year and ran with the cross country team. He loved it. I think he found a new passion, and a great way to make good friends at a new school. Grace has been enjoying her contemporary dance classes and has been kicking butt in school. They all are, actually. The parent teacher conferences were so much fun. The teachers couldn't think of anything negative to say about my kids. All positive. Meeting all of Joe's high school teachers was fun too. They all had to tell me how hard working, polite, happy, and funny Joe is. "He's one of my favorites." a few of the teachers whispered to me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Good stuff all around.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
School is going well for me as well. I am getting grades I only dreamed of when I was a kid. And I really look forward to going to class every day. I am enjoying it all far more than I thought I would. Of course the work load is extensive and I really don't have any spare time but that's okay. It is working out fairly well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And time marches on. My kids are just growing up so quickly. This year was the first year that all three of my boys went up to deer camp. It was an amazing experience for all of them, including Todd. All of them just treasured their time together. And it was a successful hunt as well. All three boys got a deer. It was a first for both Tommy and Ben. Very exciting stuff. And our freezer is finally stocked again. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G75Ewx6gYT8/Wh2zL0yYCoI/AAAAAAAALTk/zLPZ492u7R0RvKOQSbVJQae6PUatiskMwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1501" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G75Ewx6gYT8/Wh2zL0yYCoI/AAAAAAAALTk/zLPZ492u7R0RvKOQSbVJQae6PUatiskMwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1849.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
While the boys were gone Grace and I had some quality one on one time too. We went to the library, the movies, shopping, out to dinner. We snuggled in for a day and watched movies and hung out. It was fantastic. I'm all for equal opportunity but if Todd ever talks Grace into hunting I think I'll be pretty sad.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DKVDot2Rb6I/Wh2zNAjzmXI/AAAAAAAALTo/VP6EMNRCMbgYrWVBtYzZyInxg4xHZc4xwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DKVDot2Rb6I/Wh2zNAjzmXI/AAAAAAAALTo/VP6EMNRCMbgYrWVBtYzZyInxg4xHZc4xwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1848.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Which brings us to Thanksgiving. I normally host two Thanksgivings for each side of the family, one on Thursday and one on Saturday. This year Todd's sister volunteered to host on Saturday so I was only hosting my side of the family on Thanksgiving. I did a bit of cooking the day before but left most of the work for Thursday. However, it was the most relaxing and fun Thanksgiving I have had in ages. Tommy cleaned the whole house for me. Ben made the stuffing. Grace peeled all the potatoes, prepped the green bean salad, and set the tables. Todd, of course, is always a big help too. He likes cooking so we both have our hands in on the turkey but he makes the mashed potatoes and gravy. <br />
<br />
Anyway, the kids were such a huge help that the whole day just felt easy. And then after dinner Joey, without asking, began clearing up all the dishes and helping me put everything away. It was all done so quickly. My kids are awesome.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KFg_tb1mpxU/Wh2zOtNHwgI/AAAAAAAALTs/yi6MieOEcA8yGiZhQ3KF8mjJe3J8S6doACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KFg_tb1mpxU/Wh2zOtNHwgI/AAAAAAAALTs/yi6MieOEcA8yGiZhQ3KF8mjJe3J8S6doACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1903.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a wonderful Thanksgiving. And the next day was absolutely gorgeous. It was a lovely 60 degrees and Joe wanted me to take a run with him. I warned him that it would be more like a slow jog for him if I came along but he was all for it. We ran from our house to a nearby quarry where he showed me his favorite running route. He took me through the woods and around the quarry. The whole time he was pointing out roots and stones and branches he wanted me to be careful for. I was overwhelmed by his encouragement, his chivalry, and his sweetness. It did not escape my attention how lucky I am that my teenager not only wants to do these things with me but it such a gentleman and a cheerleader for me as well. Dang. It gets me all choked up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JS4FTPBaq3c/Wh2zPyGRFcI/AAAAAAAALTw/cPl889z26k402ilv8tt64nJDVn-OVrXsQCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JS4FTPBaq3c/Wh2zPyGRFcI/AAAAAAAALTw/cPl889z26k402ilv8tt64nJDVn-OVrXsQCLcBGAs/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
It was a lovely Thanksgiving break. Two wonderful get-togethers with both sides of the family. Lots of fresh air and exercise. Plenty of relaxing. And for some crazy reason I even got some Christmas decorations up. That is so NOT like me. I am a stickler for waiting on the decorations until at least the first week of December. However, the weather was so warm, the kids were so helpful, and I finally had time to spare, that I decided to go for it. Having the kids help me take all the fall decorations down and haul up all the Christmas decorations made it so easy. The outside decorations are completely up. I didn't do the inside decorations as yet. I had Todd bring up the Christmas trees but we haven't decorated them. Right now we are just enjoying the glow of the lights. But, I am certainly in the Christmas spirit early this year. It seems to me that the warmer the weather the more jolly, and festive, I feel. I know it doesn't make any sense but, oh well. I'm silly that way.<br />
<br />
I hope you all have had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I hope you have more blessings than you can count and I hope this holiday season fills you with unending joy!Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-81773288964158838952017-09-05T14:35:00.000-05:002017-09-05T15:01:29.081-05:00Be Brave. Be KindBit of a mess last night.<br />
I always loathe the start of another school year.<br />
It just drives it home.<br />
These kids keep getting older and older, faster and faster.<br />
Tomorrow, high school.<br />
And there is only so much I can say and so little I can do.<br />
I just hope they know.<br />
All of it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SFNfEu0beMQ/Wa778K5CfbI/AAAAAAAALSg/eRIzVCb02kAsvJY2EFNTtv9iVnE07Ru0gCLcBGAs/s1600/8d5e579875b5adbf1240e54db678a479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="461" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SFNfEu0beMQ/Wa778K5CfbI/AAAAAAAALSg/eRIzVCb02kAsvJY2EFNTtv9iVnE07Ru0gCLcBGAs/s400/8d5e579875b5adbf1240e54db678a479.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<br />
I had all the feels this morning. All of them. Too many. So many that the lump in my throat barely allowed me to croak "Be brave and be kind" as he exited the car. It didn't help that the whole way to school the kids talked about how weird it will be at Seton without their big brother there.<br />
Oh help.<br />
Be brave. Be kind.<br />
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AcFjuknWuiY/Wa77qle-QFI/AAAAAAAALSc/WbCaX935oo8r9qsKFSEZnFFXGu9N_s5gwCLcBGAs/s1600/21366704_10154663347576150_1092769512899208145_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AcFjuknWuiY/Wa77qle-QFI/AAAAAAAALSc/WbCaX935oo8r9qsKFSEZnFFXGu9N_s5gwCLcBGAs/s640/21366704_10154663347576150_1092769512899208145_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Dear God in heaven,<br />
please be with my children as they start a new year.<br />
Help them to work hard and do their best.<br />
Keep them safe, happy, and healthy.<br />
Give them a love for learning.<br />
Help them to grow in confidence and independence.<br />
Show them how to be compassionate.<br />
Let them be a friend to all, kind, and loving.<br />
Let their failures motivate them to try harder.<br />
Let their successes humble them.<br />
Help me, Lord, to be patient, understanding, loving, and wise<br />
in guiding them through this school year.<br />
Be with my children, Lord.<br />
Let your light shine in them and through them<br />
and keep them close to You.<br />
<br />
AmenKathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-63067101872819129492017-09-04T20:18:00.001-05:002017-09-05T15:05:27.262-05:00Summer Reflections<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BGivAvWCBLA/Wa3tyRm00xI/AAAAAAAALQE/FGZvynms6eEjrchabSJUib0zGH65z_wsQCLcBGAs/s1600/21248303_10154659277736150_7716614449316372396_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BGivAvWCBLA/Wa3tyRm00xI/AAAAAAAALQE/FGZvynms6eEjrchabSJUib0zGH65z_wsQCLcBGAs/s640/21248303_10154659277736150_7716614449316372396_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We have quickly come to the end of summer. It seems like I barely got to feel summer's warmth and it was already gone. Because so much of my focus was on school this summer I was feeling guilty thinking that the kids didn't really get a funfilled summer as I'd hoped. As I looked back on my pictures I realized they did do quite a few fun things.<br />
<br />
We spent a bit of time exploring our city at the farmer's market, parks, and arts festivals. We had smoothies and tried bubble tea!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8b67ghER7ys/Wa3t8ehxjGI/AAAAAAAALQQ/DgcD8J2BEC8RVMjLBcZpiBmgqte8nHWXwCLcBGAs/s1600/19989481_10154531209671150_4018022660245204340_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8b67ghER7ys/Wa3t8ehxjGI/AAAAAAAALQQ/DgcD8J2BEC8RVMjLBcZpiBmgqte8nHWXwCLcBGAs/s640/19989481_10154531209671150_4018022660245204340_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We hung out at our favorite spots on the lake, skipped rocks, climbed trees, and walked out to the lighthouse.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uU_g8vurF5A/Wa3t8YMhZPI/AAAAAAAALQM/02R397jHYpAY7uSWSFbpgyWGym0fu39nACLcBGAs/s1600/19990588_10154531209681150_3098860126099947130_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uU_g8vurF5A/Wa3t8YMhZPI/AAAAAAAALQM/02R397jHYpAY7uSWSFbpgyWGym0fu39nACLcBGAs/s640/19990588_10154531209681150_3098860126099947130_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We went on bike ride and walks around the neighborhood.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7LIY8MxWsQ/Wa3znJTgFXI/AAAAAAAALR0/JQE7T-dVU_oHdILewxwzWyNtz4Ffx2IkACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="1261" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7LIY8MxWsQ/Wa3znJTgFXI/AAAAAAAALR0/JQE7T-dVU_oHdILewxwzWyNtz4Ffx2IkACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1137.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We even got to hit up our favorite swim spot a few times, though not as often as we would have liked seeing as how the weather didn't really want to get hot enough for us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u8steKbnywI/Wa3t8_tKPoI/AAAAAAAALQc/qQvWHfMxhUoAL-7qj1zW4b2x6fIyreNFwCLcBGAs/s1600/20158057_10154545117311150_709590164910105854_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u8steKbnywI/Wa3t8_tKPoI/AAAAAAAALQc/qQvWHfMxhUoAL-7qj1zW4b2x6fIyreNFwCLcBGAs/s640/20158057_10154545117311150_709590164910105854_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a cool, rainy summer but that didn't stop us from taking a couple of road trips. I took the kids to Madison for the day and showed them my old stomping grounds. It was certainly bizarre being there with my FOUR children. We toured the capital building and the kids saw the Supreme Court where their dad has appeared a number of times, we ate at a popular restaurant, saw Camp Randall Stadium, and of course, did a little shopping on State Street. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4RVxKjaIP0s/Wa3wogsuvCI/AAAAAAAALQ4/8ff_nqjAfKA3lfANOfaFzCXduNo7rdPfQCLcBGAs/s1600/BeFunky%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1600" height="352" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4RVxKjaIP0s/Wa3wogsuvCI/AAAAAAAALQ4/8ff_nqjAfKA3lfANOfaFzCXduNo7rdPfQCLcBGAs/s640/BeFunky%2BCollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had a very special treat at our very own county airport. Many of the war planes that were going to the EAA stopped at our airport and put on a show. The boys, being the huge plane fans that they are, walked right out onto the runway and started chatting with the pilots. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_vnyDzfJT_Y/Wa3t9U3okbI/AAAAAAAALQg/didAv9N37zs17YC_PLrwDCFzr0JLb3OEgCLcBGAs/s1600/20369005_10154551262901150_6893095572055005016_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_vnyDzfJT_Y/Wa3t9U3okbI/AAAAAAAALQg/didAv9N37zs17YC_PLrwDCFzr0JLb3OEgCLcBGAs/s640/20369005_10154551262901150_6893095572055005016_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The pilots were so impressed with the boys' plane knowledge and enthusiasm that before long the boys were getting private tours of a B-25 (one of only 20 in the world). Grace and I hustled out there to join them and soon we were all getting our turns sitting in the pilot's seat. It was pretty amazing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lvWGArSoTXQ/Wa3wi-9sXeI/AAAAAAAALQ0/GvUUiIaib6sDqCixlcySlPbBkHCeDgHNwCLcBGAs/s1600/BeFunky%2BCollage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="979" data-original-width="1600" height="390" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lvWGArSoTXQ/Wa3wi-9sXeI/AAAAAAAALQ0/GvUUiIaib6sDqCixlcySlPbBkHCeDgHNwCLcBGAs/s640/BeFunky%2BCollage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course we made it up to the cabin a few times. One of those times it was good and hot and windy. A perfect day for playing on the lake. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5dSWKysiCXs/Wa3zTWqI7UI/AAAAAAAALRw/UDuv3csZW9AiSHpvIvKCEm9b211CP2XYwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5dSWKysiCXs/Wa3zTWqI7UI/AAAAAAAALRw/UDuv3csZW9AiSHpvIvKCEm9b211CP2XYwCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0306.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And in the lake.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3QV9lj9ikH0/Wa3zQ6KoCZI/AAAAAAAALRs/eAGT18lNA8odRMm_PcVB2RVGq0TVUWpWACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3QV9lj9ikH0/Wa3zQ6KoCZI/AAAAAAAALRs/eAGT18lNA8odRMm_PcVB2RVGq0TVUWpWACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0310.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And a perfect day for relaxing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ro_ZGxxOLqE/Wa34DAakOJI/AAAAAAAALSM/FGWaOzGI5YwvmFs1x0PbtpSJ350cga-cwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ro_ZGxxOLqE/Wa34DAakOJI/AAAAAAAALSM/FGWaOzGI5YwvmFs1x0PbtpSJ350cga-cwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_0886.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Not only did we see planes at our county airport we went to the EAA Airventure and saw the Blue Angels. It was quite the experience. One the boys will not soon forget.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dCdF1Yb7GWE/Wa3zG6tuIpI/AAAAAAAALRo/pit_Di44mjsfatYH4jrV6sLVa6QhS9uHQCLcBGAs/s1600/BeFunky%2BCollage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dCdF1Yb7GWE/Wa3zG6tuIpI/AAAAAAAALRo/pit_Di44mjsfatYH4jrV6sLVa6QhS9uHQCLcBGAs/s640/BeFunky%2BCollage4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On a personal note, Grace got her ears pierced on a whim. Her cousin, Hannah, happened to be working one day when we stopped in at Walmart and Grace decided right then and there that she wanted her cousin to be the one to pierce her ears. Hannah did a wonderful job and Grace was a happy girl.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QB-9Xqa04N0/Wa3wxemixOI/AAAAAAAALQ8/wkRKZw0MLpM1Rv4NbWkiBg2KbM6WKdmbQCLcBGAs/s1600/20429987_10154571914226150_8865720496675546295_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QB-9Xqa04N0/Wa3wxemixOI/AAAAAAAALQ8/wkRKZw0MLpM1Rv4NbWkiBg2KbM6WKdmbQCLcBGAs/s640/20429987_10154571914226150_8865720496675546295_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Both Joey and Tommy got their braces off this summer. Tommy had his off at the beginning of summer and Joey got his off last week (just in time to start high school).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HUXyWvFrwbk/Wa3xWulnf3I/AAAAAAAALRU/oKMj2A-QsUQiuCVzu9n2s0hEb0hHnwZAQCLcBGAs/s1600/BeFunky%2BCollage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="1600" height="408" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HUXyWvFrwbk/Wa3xWulnf3I/AAAAAAAALRU/oKMj2A-QsUQiuCVzu9n2s0hEb0hHnwZAQCLcBGAs/s640/BeFunky%2BCollage3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ben played baseball again this summer and though his team struggled to win games Ben had a pretty great season. One of the first games of the season Ben's team was losing by a couple of runs. In the last inning Ben went up to the plate, with bases loaded and two outs, and proceeded to get two strikes. With two strikes and two outs Ben took his pitch, swung the bat, and hit a massive ball into the outfield for a GRAND SLAM winning the game. The team and crowd went wild. What a moment! I was so proud of him for being brave enough to swing even though he already had two strikes. Such a great lesson. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Nl31cijmRk/Wa337smVrsI/AAAAAAAALSI/5-6FenrDroA2n_oXn_eCBJh3xicu9pbEACLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Nl31cijmRk/Wa337smVrsI/AAAAAAAALSI/5-6FenrDroA2n_oXn_eCBJh3xicu9pbEACLcBGAs/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As summer wound down so did we. One of the last trips was up to Green Bay to visit the Wildlife Sanctuary and then hop on over to Bay Beach. It was a relaxing and beautiful day to hang out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nWOnFenyxcs/Wa3xc_-q3zI/AAAAAAAALRY/otVe8UZJ0uIHyP2-FWchu-4DNQy3rfuqQCLcBGAs/s1600/20690343_10154606489501150_1338285244404634962_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nWOnFenyxcs/Wa3xc_-q3zI/AAAAAAAALRY/otVe8UZJ0uIHyP2-FWchu-4DNQy3rfuqQCLcBGAs/s640/20690343_10154606489501150_1338285244404634962_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Looking back, I guess we did have a good summer. But it still went far too quickly.<br />
<br />
I guess all we can do know is try to enjoy the fall. Just thinking about the upswing of school, football, cross country, dance, and everything else makes me tired.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oDHX0rf-Hvk/Wa30K1aStDI/AAAAAAAALR8/EErbT6vYDqYYpeozXJRulfGWd2v-0dTJACLcBGAs/s1600/21273475_10154659277741150_5844013512880916794_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oDHX0rf-Hvk/Wa30K1aStDI/AAAAAAAALR8/EErbT6vYDqYYpeozXJRulfGWd2v-0dTJACLcBGAs/s640/21273475_10154659277741150_5844013512880916794_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Welcome back, fall, you beautiful beast. Please be kind. I'm already exhausted.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-49431968063894605722017-08-28T16:14:00.000-05:002017-08-28T22:14:50.326-05:00Here Goes Nothing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CeZoVOeuJIo/WaSFSE2j84I/AAAAAAAALP0/hgwrR6h5P9gm-stZA0MnAqbuJoObKcaugCLcBGAs/s1600/21078554_10154643565626150_5132151253287054545_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CeZoVOeuJIo/WaSFSE2j84I/AAAAAAAALP0/hgwrR6h5P9gm-stZA0MnAqbuJoObKcaugCLcBGAs/s640/21078554_10154643565626150_5132151253287054545_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is what's known as payback. Tommy insisted I pose for a "First Day of School" photo. He is normally the one that gives me the most grief on having to pose for pictures so he really gave it to me this morning. He kept saying, "Wait, I think that was a little blurry. Let's try another on. Okay, I think you should fix your hair. Let's take another one. Let's try one with a big smile." Little sass. I was seriously getting nervous that I would be late for my first day because of all of his shenanigans.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The first day was interesting. I may have overdone it a bit. A combination of nerves and stress, trying to fit in a run after class with not much food, and then getting Joe to his ortho appointment managed to bring on a migraine for me. Not the best way to kick off the school year but a good reminder not to pack in too much. Luckily, it wasn't a horrible migraine. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My first class of the week was psychology. The teacher seems lovely even though the work load seems a bit much. I think I will really enjoy this class despite being the oldest (by far) in the class. Tomorrow I have Anatomy and Physiology and then later in the week I have Oral Interpretation and Sociology. It is going to be a busy semester. I hope I can keep up. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here goes nothing!</div>
<br />
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-87829427469065152762017-08-22T20:38:00.001-05:002017-08-22T20:38:05.810-05:00Still There<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-REeE7s4kanI/WZzZk2B9tGI/AAAAAAAALPU/dAhG3Wemu7IJ3ewDZwgqZip7bP_cJM9BACLcBGAs/s1600/20952993_10154630682641150_4743446213444433171_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-REeE7s4kanI/WZzZk2B9tGI/AAAAAAAALPU/dAhG3Wemu7IJ3ewDZwgqZip7bP_cJM9BACLcBGAs/s640/20952993_10154630682641150_4743446213444433171_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
It's still there after all these years. During my 4 years at North High School I don't think a week passed that I didn't walk by that picture and announce to all of my friends, "That's my dad!" Eventually, when my friends and I would walk by they would quickly say, "We know. It's your dad."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I can remember my mom and dad coming to high school to watch me in some play or show or game and I took them down the hallway where dad's picture was hanging. He got such a kick out of seeing his football pictures and his track picture. He doesn't remember ever seeing the hurdle picture before and seeing it up on the "wall of fame" was quite a treat. I'm so glad he had a chance to see his picture. And I was always so glad to walk down that hallway feeling a little of my dad there with me. Now, especially, that he is no longer physically with us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Joe will be starting at North in 2 weeks and the rest of my kids will follow all too soon. I have a feeling their friends will eventually be saying, "We know. It's your grandpa." And I can't help but feel dad will be smiling down at his grandkids, watching over them, and enjoying every minute of it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oMWzjszvcDA/WZzbBWbyf8I/AAAAAAAALPk/TnxEfV2m9bwUBu68fDqpwbnIize8yg4DACLcBGAs/s1600/dad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oMWzjszvcDA/WZzbBWbyf8I/AAAAAAAALPk/TnxEfV2m9bwUBu68fDqpwbnIize8yg4DACLcBGAs/s640/dad.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-59129079111533889332017-08-18T15:07:00.001-05:002017-08-18T15:09:00.965-05:00Feeling Anxious<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I spent much of the week running to the store, one kid at a time, buying school supplies. After each kid had the supplies they needed we went through, labeled everything, and packed it into a bag to take to the Open House at school. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But this year is definitely a first.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This year I had to prepare my own school supplies. I didn't have a huge list like they did but I did have to get my books (good grief, was that expensive!), a backpack, and a few folders and notebooks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today we finished up the school supply prep and lined up everyone's supplies neatly in the library. My supplies were right in the middle of it all. It kind of gave me a momentary freak out. This is happening. It's getting real.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is a year of change with Joe starting high school and me going back to school. There is so much going on that I question how well I will be able to keep up with it all. Joe is on cross country, Ben and Tommy are on football, and Grace is starting dance. Not to mention all the school activities. I don't want to miss any of it. It makes me emotional thinking about it. I don't want my stuff to get in the way of soaking up as much of my kids, while they are still kids, as I can.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So much going through my head. I just hope I'm up to the challenge of it all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As much as I dreaded taking Chemistry this summer it really did turn out to be for the best. It was a big self esteem boost to do well in something that I always thought I was bad at. I did so well that I got an email from the college asking if I would be a tutor (a paid position) for other Chemistry students. That was somewhat of a shock. A happy shock.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So this is happening. It's coming. I have one full week left of summer and I hope to use that week well. Hanging with the kiddos, relaxing, swimming, maybe even a few little day trips. I want to make the most of this week.<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fDBsfU4-YCc/WZdDspcGBwI/AAAAAAAALPE/dOcctt0k9M0hnOvLkiP4Uj3qXNa9FaONACLcBGAs/s1600/20863668_10154621011206150_790241390660529693_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fDBsfU4-YCc/WZdDspcGBwI/AAAAAAAALPE/dOcctt0k9M0hnOvLkiP4Uj3qXNa9FaONACLcBGAs/s640/20863668_10154621011206150_790241390660529693_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
It's getting real.Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-41493526841449465032017-08-15T16:56:00.001-05:002017-08-16T08:07:57.767-05:00Great To Be Eight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-56HGJ700u24/WZNcfoVQ_GI/AAAAAAAALOY/Fk2z886JlP4IKCSzKF0InFF6904jT4y6ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0383.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1105" data-original-width="1600" height="442" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-56HGJ700u24/WZNcfoVQ_GI/AAAAAAAALOY/Fk2z886JlP4IKCSzKF0InFF6904jT4y6ACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0383.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Today Grace is 8 years old. Eight years of having this lovely lady in our lives.<br />
<br />
The boys did a great job trying to make Grace feel special on her birthday. While Grace and I were running errands this morning the boys hopped on their bicycles and biked to the store to buy her presents with their own money. They picked out such thoughtful gifts. A journal, colored pens, and her favorite candies. Grace was so surprised when they each lined up and handed her their gifts. It melted this mama's heart. And it didn't stop there.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PY4qhCv_uts/WZNcRKGvvKI/AAAAAAAALOM/D_E6_fFYPhgXG1bfq0_BTUzgHxTsWTB3wCLcBGAs/s1600/BeFunky%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PY4qhCv_uts/WZNcRKGvvKI/AAAAAAAALOM/D_E6_fFYPhgXG1bfq0_BTUzgHxTsWTB3wCLcBGAs/s640/BeFunky%2BCollage.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Grace got a new bike for her birthday since she had outgrown her current bike and the boys took her on a bike ride to try out her new present.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3QXYDnXxfqU/WZNcRTKOUaI/AAAAAAAALOQ/QZfjl4o7rq88OqWcV1oLTEo02pze2G0ogCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3QXYDnXxfqU/WZNcRTKOUaI/AAAAAAAALOQ/QZfjl4o7rq88OqWcV1oLTEo02pze2G0ogCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0381.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
They were so excited she finally had a bike that could keep up with their bikes. And keep up she did. Keep up is her middle name.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w4i16KtuYrs/WZNdYHiwM0I/AAAAAAAALOk/OMFiFpCzTV4V4CotSr_3a6V1dJ5RmDRNACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w4i16KtuYrs/WZNdYHiwM0I/AAAAAAAALOk/OMFiFpCzTV4V4CotSr_3a6V1dJ5RmDRNACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1136.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I tell ya, having three older brothers is gonna make this girl one tough chick. Round trip I think we biked about 4 miles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtvA3oJWCEs/WZNdXcz9BLI/AAAAAAAALOg/zLlge8jr9hkROiQeYTjtRPrHB33FNX-4gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="1261" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtvA3oJWCEs/WZNdXcz9BLI/AAAAAAAALOg/zLlge8jr9hkROiQeYTjtRPrHB33FNX-4gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1137.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think it was a good birthday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, today is Grace's 8th birthday. I can hardly believe it. It feels like just yesterday I was trying to get her to sit still so I could get a good 1st birthday picture. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hHLGv2XX8ho/WZNj8LOwweI/AAAAAAAALO0/1eiOakReSJUX_lhG3iX7njymyX4M1d-sgCLcBGAs/s1600/073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hHLGv2XX8ho/WZNj8LOwweI/AAAAAAAALO0/1eiOakReSJUX_lhG3iX7njymyX4M1d-sgCLcBGAs/s640/073.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
This young lady is spunky and tough, and goofy and smart, and silly and sweet, ad independent and kind. She is the perfect combination of tough and girlie, outdoorsy/adventurous and laid back/chill, of opinionated and understanding. She is my buddy, my snuggler, my kindred spirit. I could not be more proud of this lovely soul. I am so lucky to have her in my life. Of all the little girls in the whole world I got the best one.<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0fPTJcX2L8/WZNcTg43W3I/AAAAAAAALOU/ivwiICQXp9EEFeYnzrxP0Sm6IVcdR-PwgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1114" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0fPTJcX2L8/WZNcTg43W3I/AAAAAAAALOU/ivwiICQXp9EEFeYnzrxP0Sm6IVcdR-PwgCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0388.JPG" width="444" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Birthday, my favorite girl. I am so proud to be your mama. I love you!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-48387268078678300202017-08-03T09:07:00.000-05:002017-08-03T12:55:36.685-05:00Where I've Been<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This summer has not been a typical summer around here. Normally the kids and I are crazy busy living it up and doing as many fun things as we possibly can. If the kids are excited to go back to school at the end of summer I feel as though I've failed my job. Summer should be both relaxing and fun and you should want it to last forever. This summer has not been like that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--sEYpcet5OQ/WYMklEkcSkI/AAAAAAAALNY/lpYzDch7dSEJ5QrpAl_sY1UNGcF2mX7DwCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--sEYpcet5OQ/WYMklEkcSkI/AAAAAAAALNY/lpYzDch7dSEJ5QrpAl_sY1UNGcF2mX7DwCLcBGAs/s640/FullSizeRender%2B%25287%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In spring I began looking into going back to school. I ran around getting my transcripts from high school and my one year of college and sent them off to the local tech school. I met with advisers and counselors, updated my vaccinations, reviewed my medical records, and looked into classes. I went back and forth trying to decide if I should go into the LPN or RN program. It was pretty cute how interested Tommy was in the process. He asked me questions and helped me to work through the pros and cons of each program. Ultimately, I decided to go into the RN program at a local technical college. Nursing is something I've always wanted to do. It is a decision that was met with not only excitement but extreme apprehension. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As I was going through my transcripts I was brought back to high school and what a struggle school was for me. I had forgotten just how difficult it was until I saw my grades again. Knowing I had such a hard time the first time around I was very nervous to try schooling again. I know that as an adult I would be able to apply myself better than I had as a teenager but I still struggle with some of the same issues (dyslexia) that made school difficult for me in the first place. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In order to even begin the prerequisite classes for nursing I had to first take a Chemistry class. That meant I had to take Chemistry in summer (a condensed 7 week class) so that I could begin my classes in fall without delay. Chemistry had always been one of my biggest struggles. And not only did I have to pass the class but I had to get better than a C. Class was 4 hours a day, 3 times a week. And when I was done with class I would come home and study for another 3 hours or so. I studied for hours on my days off of school as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KZE8iUBWNRM/WYMj7kAiQXI/AAAAAAAALNQ/1DKVwRQOs_w5p_a0I_yFXLJbb3ZF8xD6QCLcBGAs/s1600/20620833_10154581526611150_8135423206787736783_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KZE8iUBWNRM/WYMj7kAiQXI/AAAAAAAALNQ/1DKVwRQOs_w5p_a0I_yFXLJbb3ZF8xD6QCLcBGAs/s640/20620833_10154581526611150_8135423206787736783_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This little spot in my library became my study spot (and my praying spot). I would go in, pray, and then spread out all of my millions of papers and notebooks and textbooks and get to work. The kids were super supportive and tried their best to be quiet and entertain themselves so I could study. Each time I had a test the kids told me they were praying for me. They were so wonderful. And Todd was just as supportive and excited for me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The class was rough. A third of the people in my class were taking it for the 2nd time because they didn't pass the first time. I was told that only 10% of the students pass the first time. And apparently the summer course was even tougher because so much was crammed into such a short amount of time. Every time I would mention my Chemistry class to friends who are nurses they would tell me they had to take it twice and it was the hardest class they took for the nursing program (and they never used it as a nurse). Needless to say it gave me much anxiety.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All this to say that yesterday was my last day and final test. I got an A on the test and ended up getting an A in the class. Part of me still can't believe I pulled it off. I hadn't even told very many people that I was taking the class because I was so afraid that I would fail and then have to tell everyone I didn't make it. And here I not only passed but I did well. It has definitely given me more confidence for my upcoming fall classes. I am still apprehensive about making it through this 3 year program but I think I can do it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And it is amazing to me how everything happens for a reason. The first day of class I sat next to Jen. I was meant to sit next to Jen. We had very similar study styles, the same anxiety, and really helped each other through the class. When I was confused on something she would explain it for me and vice versa. We were also good stress relievers for each other. Yesterday after we both aced our final test (she got an A in the class as well- we may be the only two who got A's for the class) we went and celebrated with drinks and lunch. I am truly grateful for this lady.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OXqJBmueso/WYMj7kMZQsI/AAAAAAAALNM/8l_RgdF8L1UP4N9ClQtvekADU8xbi8WWwCLcBGAs/s1600/20604588_10154581526606150_2864959041985714893_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OXqJBmueso/WYMj7kMZQsI/AAAAAAAALNM/8l_RgdF8L1UP4N9ClQtvekADU8xbi8WWwCLcBGAs/s640/20604588_10154581526606150_2864959041985714893_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
So here we are in August already and it hasn't really felt like summer. Sure we've been able to do a few fun things this summer but no where near what we usually do. The kids have been awesome and haven't complained or even really noticed but I still feel guilty. My classes start in three weeks and I'm going to do everything possible to make the next three weeks fun for the kids. Hopefully we can really enjoy this time before we all start back to school.<br />
<br />
I hope you are all well and enjoying summer. I've missed connecting with my bloggy friends and can't wait to read up on what you all have been up to.<br />
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-59724705888749108592017-06-13T21:34:00.001-05:002017-06-13T23:13:10.715-05:00Light Speed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It has taken me far too long to write this post. I think I have been avoiding the topic (and the photos) on purpose. The last few weeks have been so full of melancholia for me that I have a difficult time putting it into words. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course, last week was the kids' last week of school. Because Joe was graduating on Wednesday his last actual day of school was on Tuesday. I took the obligatory "last day of school" photo on that day since it was the last day that all four of my children would ever be attending the same school all together ever again. It was momentous. And sad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_MKnHEQbdc/WUCU0JUbRlI/AAAAAAAALL0/TJhNfyy4Fx0CWM-b4sM6uwZOBFJnMRZNACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1162" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_MKnHEQbdc/WUCU0JUbRlI/AAAAAAAALL0/TJhNfyy4Fx0CWM-b4sM6uwZOBFJnMRZNACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0237.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I also had to do my familiar side by side comparison. The first day of the school year and the last day of the school year. Looking at the growth not only shocks me it also makes me sad. So much making me wistful these days.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyxgSh9nzTM/WUCU0YDXuxI/AAAAAAAALL4/x5syOH2LDSw13Da7BtAy2j0UztJO83bVACLcBGAs/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="749" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZyxgSh9nzTM/WUCU0YDXuxI/AAAAAAAALL4/x5syOH2LDSw13Da7BtAy2j0UztJO83bVACLcBGAs/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
On Wednesday evening Joe's 8th grade class had their graduation ceremony. More pictures were had.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQL6GnhqBTY/WUCVKuJ3EtI/AAAAAAAALME/kvfj4KMnThE9hVar_QeHGmDVgGBShIe-ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQL6GnhqBTY/WUCVKuJ3EtI/AAAAAAAALME/kvfj4KMnThE9hVar_QeHGmDVgGBShIe-ACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0239.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I am just so proud of this young man, I can't even put it into words. He is such a quality human being.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sBWkhMOqNU/WUCVKQvq4oI/AAAAAAAALMA/feF33mV5l4sdZojfZKXwCPOH6KcwUezuACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sBWkhMOqNU/WUCVKQvq4oI/AAAAAAAALMA/feF33mV5l4sdZojfZKXwCPOH6KcwUezuACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0241.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
<br />
His siblings were very proud of him too, and they too, like me, were feeling a bit sad about it all. They really enjoyed having their big brother at school with them. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HvZh2DlhQCw/WUCVKepaf4I/AAAAAAAALL8/qOqq0gOCnS48Hw7TsYamgi52zl78VuKpQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HvZh2DlhQCw/WUCVKepaf4I/AAAAAAAALL8/qOqq0gOCnS48Hw7TsYamgi52zl78VuKpQCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0242.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The graduation ceremony started with mass at church. After mass there was a brief ceremony and Joe delivered the class farewell address. It was a gorgeous speech, very well delivered, and very well received. Safe to say there were not many dry eyes in church as Joe finished his speech. It was beautiful. He received MANY compliments. Proud mama, right here. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gt7dOhAiD5w/WUCVPeISzKI/AAAAAAAALMI/HcEQVNbjR0MITVw66adhnMT-sb_voWbSACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gt7dOhAiD5w/WUCVPeISzKI/AAAAAAAALMI/HcEQVNbjR0MITVw66adhnMT-sb_voWbSACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0256.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The kids were then called to the front of church to receive their graduation certificates. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CD8CyEuzdHc/WUCVPgudU4I/AAAAAAAALMM/DIE9JD0VU2QncKw4sZWv9Byh2seZgvbIQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CD8CyEuzdHc/WUCVPgudU4I/AAAAAAAALMM/DIE9JD0VU2QncKw4sZWv9Byh2seZgvbIQCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0259.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Usually the graduating class performs a class song that they chose. Because it can be difficult to get 8th graders to sing the song is usually performed by the class on chimes. Not this year. This class is a class of singers (one of the reasons that the school musicals have been such a success). The class performed "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" (the Hawaiian version) and it was gorgeous. Joe had been telling me to prepare myself for weeks because he knows that song and that version is my all time favorite. Yep. I cried.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EghfwcXBDKI/WUCVULzCStI/AAAAAAAALMU/dc-cwf3DjTY0j3-gjCp9-qOEcrqScGa6gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EghfwcXBDKI/WUCVULzCStI/AAAAAAAALMU/dc-cwf3DjTY0j3-gjCp9-qOEcrqScGa6gCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0263.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Joey knew I would be emotional. He gave me a little smile of encouragement on the processional out of church.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a_9gcahNsQ0/WUCVU_oxNcI/AAAAAAAALMY/oXrTGkBJ1c4rnqAKtVlXMNTlpi7gyQNZgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a_9gcahNsQ0/WUCVU_oxNcI/AAAAAAAALMY/oXrTGkBJ1c4rnqAKtVlXMNTlpi7gyQNZgCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0265.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This vast majority of kids in this class had all been together since 4K. They really grew up together. And they were closer than any other class I've known. They were always hanging out together outside of school. Lots of bonfires and movies. Sometimes they fought like brothers and sisters but they really did love each other. It will be difficult to see these kids split up to different high schools.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVF70q3kBS8/WUCVU4uz2FI/AAAAAAAALMc/r3W_VtmbPMkeTyUg5q5TfcVqgcteinocACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVF70q3kBS8/WUCVU4uz2FI/AAAAAAAALMc/r3W_VtmbPMkeTyUg5q5TfcVqgcteinocACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0266.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Some of Joe's good guy friends. So many good memories together. I have pictures of these boys together when they were 4 years old!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z_Bc-coprsU/WUCVYrqIHvI/AAAAAAAALMg/IpyvfLatnaIlD4_2Nlgf_JqmqiHsexCjACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z_Bc-coprsU/WUCVYrqIHvI/AAAAAAAALMg/IpyvfLatnaIlD4_2Nlgf_JqmqiHsexCjACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0276.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The boys. Again. Such a great group.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BzCIP2tFNjk/WUCVzOxSYRI/AAAAAAAALM4/OXym1-mDr9E90QY0SpfdSSJC3W1eHIjsACLcBGAs/s1600/19059571_10155658910574218_2910924774700731309_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BzCIP2tFNjk/WUCVzOxSYRI/AAAAAAAALM4/OXym1-mDr9E90QY0SpfdSSJC3W1eHIjsACLcBGAs/s640/19059571_10155658910574218_2910924774700731309_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was surprised that I held it together as well as I did. I cried but I was discreet. I thought for sure I would lose it and wail and sob. I'm sure Joe is glad that I did not. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fuiumq533ws/WUCVaGpUX5I/AAAAAAAALMk/H8Dq9WcuSBM_PodFHJofQJYxTQ96ZoYIwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fuiumq533ws/WUCVaGpUX5I/AAAAAAAALMk/H8Dq9WcuSBM_PodFHJofQJYxTQ96ZoYIwCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0284.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Such proud parents.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ny1B4bjPGw/WUCVaJoWpKI/AAAAAAAALMo/TbDrHkmteT4omKxgn_85M82Z9_6hlHHjgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ny1B4bjPGw/WUCVaJoWpKI/AAAAAAAALMo/TbDrHkmteT4omKxgn_85M82Z9_6hlHHjgCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0285.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
<br />
And the grandmas were so very proud too. My mom is still bragging about the speech Joe made. She really sobbed. She must have been taking over for me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qjusLzPMuAg/WUCVcND8MaI/AAAAAAAALMw/kIUtJefdO00HV0nIASk9A66g_H__RYkdACLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qjusLzPMuAg/WUCVcND8MaI/AAAAAAAALMw/kIUtJefdO00HV0nIASk9A66g_H__RYkdACLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0288.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After the ceremony there was a reception across the street at the school. A video montage was put together with the kids' baby photos and then a whole mess of pictures of the class over the years. Man. That really drives home just how quickly this has all gone. Like light speed it seems.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was an emotional week. The last few weeks, actually. But it all came to a peak last week with graduation and then school ending. I just don't know how to slow this beautiful life down. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the evening of the last day of school Ben had baseball practice and Tommy went along to help out. That just left Joe and Grace back at home with me. With the 6 year age gap those two don't always connect quite as much as I would like. But when they do it is magic. On this night I was washing up the dinner dishes after Todd, Ben, and Tommy raced out to baseball practice. When I finished cleaning up I looked out the front window to see where Joe and Grace had gotten to. This is what I saw... </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QME18gtxGac/WUCVb4OptHI/AAAAAAAALMs/ERgv23kaXoAQfXkLwbBwW3Gx3sMHdg9ggCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="1600" height="442" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QME18gtxGac/WUCVb4OptHI/AAAAAAAALMs/ERgv23kaXoAQfXkLwbBwW3Gx3sMHdg9ggCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0303.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Magic. Pure joy and magic. Oh, this mama's heart. Seeing this on top of being so melancholy was just too much. So sweet. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next day the kids and I were out running errands. We drove past the lake to take a look at all of the pelicans that our visiting and we passed a park that I used to take the kids to every day when they were small. I mean EVERY. DAY. The kids all shouted how they wanted to stop and play at the park and I just couldn't refuse. The kids and I got out of the car and ran over to the park. It was surreal. Joe now hit his head standing under the monkey bars that the boys used to struggle to make it across and Grace was skipping bars. It just blew my mind how big they had gotten so quickly. So much had changed. And yet so much stayed the same. Joe began a rousing game of tag with some kids on the playground and his brothers quickly joined in. Soon the entire playground was in on the fun. Grace was busy showing me all of her skills. "Mom! Watch this! Watch me!" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-glQs23rnIWQ/WUCVcsI2V8I/AAAAAAAALM0/2a7FvGWjs9AtnM5TNVhTdKSALEIc3CUGwCLcBGAs/s1600/19023722_10154423507241150_3301115572278443571_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-glQs23rnIWQ/WUCVcsI2V8I/AAAAAAAALM0/2a7FvGWjs9AtnM5TNVhTdKSALEIc3CUGwCLcBGAs/s640/19023722_10154423507241150_3301115572278443571_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some things never change. And that's a good thing. A great thing. There's only so much change I can take at one time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, these days have brought into focus how quickly it is all going. As fast as the speed of light, it seems. Too fast. But I'm trying my best to enjoy every moment.</div>
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-44044600949663108192017-05-11T13:55:00.002-05:002017-05-11T17:40:40.533-05:00Flying High<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last week was a week that Joe will never forget. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At this time last week Joe was on his 8th grade class trip to Washington D.C. All year round his class held car washes, bake sales, a massive rummage sale, and a few cookouts to help raise money to go on their trip. It was a ton of work. And it all paid off. The trip was something I'm sure none of those kids will forget. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lH2ZcOxR65A/WRCCxxKDcYI/AAAAAAAALIU/A1zYc8pyYdgGSsuv9T1JOcjxZsgqbbuOACEw/s1600/18268201_1308122465908066_3428627527283302055_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lH2ZcOxR65A/WRCCxxKDcYI/AAAAAAAALIU/A1zYc8pyYdgGSsuv9T1JOcjxZsgqbbuOACEw/s640/18268201_1308122465908066_3428627527283302055_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Joe was fortunate enough to be picked to represent his school and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Joe has been a history buff and interested in the military for as long as he can remember so this was a huge honor for him. He took it extremely seriously.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mC3F3ofhEj0/WRCCySFHkfI/AAAAAAAALIE/oFTV99L597QfCVW8HfiTJNohN16jKDKpgCLcB/s1600/18301144_1308121975908115_3282905394646571534_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mC3F3ofhEj0/WRCCySFHkfI/AAAAAAAALIE/oFTV99L597QfCVW8HfiTJNohN16jKDKpgCLcB/s640/18301144_1308121975908115_3282905394646571534_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have a amazing video of the whole thing but I couldn't get it to upload to my blog for some reason. I think the file was just too big. I'll try again later. Listening to Taps being played as the kids stood with their hands on their hearts makes me emotional every time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P_yJYzMjUPs/WRCCyMZPFxI/AAAAAAAALIA/H-wqd8-Uz8sdnG_Zl3ONAgh9JCiKc_4IACLcB/s1600/18301092_1308121982574781_6737759746175421765_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P_yJYzMjUPs/WRCCyMZPFxI/AAAAAAAALIA/H-wqd8-Uz8sdnG_Zl3ONAgh9JCiKc_4IACLcB/s640/18301092_1308121982574781_6737759746175421765_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In order to place a wreath you need to sign up at least a year in advance. Luckily, Joe's teacher has been taking kids on this trip for the last 7 years or so and she has it down to a science. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VFd6TuO0_Zo/WRCCx4xRLdI/AAAAAAAALH0/FZbhqhExTCE1fGPcy0mCvUwpXN3B97SewCLcB/s1600/18275005_1308122012574778_5738225760460337076_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VFd6TuO0_Zo/WRCCx4xRLdI/AAAAAAAALH0/FZbhqhExTCE1fGPcy0mCvUwpXN3B97SewCLcB/s640/18275005_1308122012574778_5738225760460337076_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Joe was so thankful to be able to participate in such an honor. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K9OU3H4n1wk/WRCCyTnY8fI/AAAAAAAALIM/qZmQudFQA6sElkfFq5NnFFT7OBN_fPjDgCLcB/s1600/18342156_1308122045908108_1002373259372220820_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K9OU3H4n1wk/WRCCyTnY8fI/AAAAAAAALIM/qZmQudFQA6sElkfFq5NnFFT7OBN_fPjDgCLcB/s640/18342156_1308122045908108_1002373259372220820_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The kids were able to visit just about every major monument and museum in DC and they were only there for three days.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N_yUwnHV82w/WRCD9iw_U-I/AAAAAAAALIY/VANVs_CiGLMOoNp3RJsfRTXhjtmCcHRngCLcB/s1600/18222402_1308121819241464_6046323104557576546_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N_yUwnHV82w/WRCD9iw_U-I/AAAAAAAALIY/VANVs_CiGLMOoNp3RJsfRTXhjtmCcHRngCLcB/s640/18222402_1308121819241464_6046323104557576546_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It was nonstop walking. In those three days they walked almost 50 miles.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GjOgSHFMXaw/WRSu_oRl7WI/AAAAAAAALK4/xuennz26Cnop6juPcCoemRIoppzCoxkJwCLcB/s1600/18301853_10212760030543988_8422184525876920225_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GjOgSHFMXaw/WRSu_oRl7WI/AAAAAAAALK4/xuennz26Cnop6juPcCoemRIoppzCoxkJwCLcB/s640/18301853_10212760030543988_8422184525876920225_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Todd was more than happy to be the group navigator.<br />
<br />
On Wisconsin!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WyHIdo1MXtM/WRCD9q495JI/AAAAAAAALIc/vzCtrPvlcckvKmqY_56fO05V9GJYBOzWACLcB/s1600/18268148_1308122125908100_5483570417751851207_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WyHIdo1MXtM/WRCD9q495JI/AAAAAAAALIc/vzCtrPvlcckvKmqY_56fO05V9GJYBOzWACLcB/s640/18268148_1308122125908100_5483570417751851207_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
They visited and took tours of the White House, the Capitol Building, the Washington Monument, Arlington Cemetery,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9xurwa7Efr4/WRSuIukERUI/AAAAAAAALKw/xOMypar0r6EE3YCfGaoNPbuMftcfKgRqQCLcB/s1600/18301185_10212759560972249_2299716412644956906_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9xurwa7Efr4/WRSuIukERUI/AAAAAAAALKw/xOMypar0r6EE3YCfGaoNPbuMftcfKgRqQCLcB/s640/18301185_10212759560972249_2299716412644956906_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
all the veteran memorial walls,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KNgzw2V8NgU/WRSpRQRHtII/AAAAAAAALKo/lzpgcVbnhVkq8CxC6sqoIr53jDKaUHeeQCLcB/s1600/18268447_10212759865259856_5431425485682047109_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KNgzw2V8NgU/WRSpRQRHtII/AAAAAAAALKo/lzpgcVbnhVkq8CxC6sqoIr53jDKaUHeeQCLcB/s640/18268447_10212759865259856_5431425485682047109_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
saw many veterans tear up at the memorials,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNGCRBiYOiY/WRSoOdn_ACI/AAAAAAAALKg/rA1wKBBmRxcJTgrJyoCTLF5bbgMCughxgCLcB/s1600/18402990_10212759866539888_174791936463913784_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNGCRBiYOiY/WRSoOdn_ACI/AAAAAAAALKg/rA1wKBBmRxcJTgrJyoCTLF5bbgMCughxgCLcB/s640/18402990_10212759866539888_174791936463913784_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
shook hands with veterans visiting on honor flights and thanked them for their service,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0f7nl4UNeI0/WRSn8kneucI/AAAAAAAALKU/9-KDM8S_OCkHohem2Qiql2ysu_QChxbbQCLcB/s1600/18300904_10212759869739968_109202581411593382_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0f7nl4UNeI0/WRSn8kneucI/AAAAAAAALKU/9-KDM8S_OCkHohem2Qiql2ysu_QChxbbQCLcB/s640/18300904_10212759869739968_109202581411593382_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
and helped them when their wheelchairs got stuck on the cobblestone.<br />
<br />
They visited Ford's Theater, Union Station, and the Library of Congress,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F1zPQkmHpGc/WRTmjVp3__I/AAAAAAAALLY/pj7tSNhVm00_yLbmbN_jNXWe4-QqVkG-gCLcB/s1600/18301994_10212760032384034_5230293215936214716_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F1zPQkmHpGc/WRTmjVp3__I/AAAAAAAALLY/pj7tSNhVm00_yLbmbN_jNXWe4-QqVkG-gCLcB/s640/18301994_10212760032384034_5230293215936214716_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
the Holocaust Museum,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kNwJs0k5iwk/WRSoOZ6bn0I/AAAAAAAALKc/orWpEigTQqg1rF7JEMhctjwexRtoLa52ACLcB/s1600/18403510_10212759873100052_4809508227050263864_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kNwJs0k5iwk/WRSoOZ6bn0I/AAAAAAAALKc/orWpEigTQqg1rF7JEMhctjwexRtoLa52ACLcB/s640/18403510_10212759873100052_4809508227050263864_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7HdygMrn2qU/WRSoOYovKAI/AAAAAAAALKY/nohmh344sDsdibHPr2OEOCDU1xqPpiqdgCLcB/s1600/18403260_10212759873900072_983105427595891923_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7HdygMrn2qU/WRSoOYovKAI/AAAAAAAALKY/nohmh344sDsdibHPr2OEOCDU1xqPpiqdgCLcB/s640/18403260_10212759873900072_983105427595891923_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
the Martin Luther King, Jr. Monument,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSDGKNk4yRc/WRCCybKjRlI/AAAAAAAALIQ/iGqtqj1FLjARBV9wqc43yLR0n55Vlg-mQCLcB/s1600/18403727_1308122202574759_2165220319522718298_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSDGKNk4yRc/WRCCybKjRlI/AAAAAAAALIQ/iGqtqj1FLjARBV9wqc43yLR0n55Vlg-mQCLcB/s640/18403727_1308122202574759_2165220319522718298_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
the Lincoln Monument,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fPvgnzkLdiM/WRCCxyDy1SI/AAAAAAAALHw/yGnV6k5J9o8rgwkH-eF46baXAj64AVxaQCLcB/s1600/18275255_1308122379241408_61866795518440787_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fPvgnzkLdiM/WRCCxyDy1SI/AAAAAAAALHw/yGnV6k5J9o8rgwkH-eF46baXAj64AVxaQCLcB/s640/18275255_1308122379241408_61866795518440787_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
they went to the zoo,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-er6sUe0XufU/WRCQIsDRnPI/AAAAAAAALKA/uPTXfn2fi9QMc7UXwHBilrNRElaHqbmYgCLcB/s1600/18301451_10212760034784094_251931134409730976_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-er6sUe0XufU/WRCQIsDRnPI/AAAAAAAALKA/uPTXfn2fi9QMc7UXwHBilrNRElaHqbmYgCLcB/s640/18301451_10212760034784094_251931134409730976_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
they went to mass at the Basilica,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rzM3snk7j-4/WRCD90_Gq9I/AAAAAAAALIo/BDCbCV9uTA4FvWNJ4-J_k4l1y5WGGi1XgCLcB/s1600/18301440_1308122649241381_1399956978967785463_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rzM3snk7j-4/WRCD90_Gq9I/AAAAAAAALIo/BDCbCV9uTA4FvWNJ4-J_k4l1y5WGGi1XgCLcB/s640/18301440_1308122649241381_1399956978967785463_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
and posed by the statue of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the namesake of their school.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgdU2P3tn_8/WRCD-G72_0I/AAAAAAAALIs/2i3811br83c01wituumo60IOtJXn49FnQCLcB/s1600/18342598_1308122615908051_2995247837240604172_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgdU2P3tn_8/WRCD-G72_0I/AAAAAAAALIs/2i3811br83c01wituumo60IOtJXn49FnQCLcB/s640/18342598_1308122615908051_2995247837240604172_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
They even went on a ghost tour.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vUli2A0x8Lk/WRCE5qJjd9I/AAAAAAAALI0/-uoVjIghOggv7lGEWYF5zhGUFgxG3NmiACLcB/s1600/18300810_1308122569241389_2943040637211646946_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vUli2A0x8Lk/WRCE5qJjd9I/AAAAAAAALI0/-uoVjIghOggv7lGEWYF5zhGUFgxG3NmiACLcB/s640/18300810_1308122569241389_2943040637211646946_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was an absolutely amazing trip for all the kids, and the chaperones as well. Todd was lucky enough to be able to go on the trip with Joe and they both had an fantastic time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8pWe_4mapvA/WRCCyVo4FmI/AAAAAAAALII/jp4wIK93_mUZGEiFxThtVl1AoOaBTaVzgCLcB/s1600/18341931_1308121965908116_3406849524458005374_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8pWe_4mapvA/WRCCyVo4FmI/AAAAAAAALII/jp4wIK93_mUZGEiFxThtVl1AoOaBTaVzgCLcB/s640/18341931_1308121965908116_3406849524458005374_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Joe even got to room with his best friends! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XJjw6cbSl20/WRSxc9kWuGI/AAAAAAAALLA/asBI0AWLxi8x4fOMTkeUUauQRuN6nmwRgCLcB/s1600/18342310_10212759550931998_37558616447427243_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XJjw6cbSl20/WRSxc9kWuGI/AAAAAAAALLA/asBI0AWLxi8x4fOMTkeUUauQRuN6nmwRgCLcB/s640/18342310_10212759550931998_37558616447427243_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5lKjzdOqxfw/WRSvm0dd_EI/AAAAAAAALK8/W-91vs6HmOIqdDhvJ-C0siCkOE3DfuONgCLcB/s1600/18342785_10212759561892272_9093745419145431666_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5lKjzdOqxfw/WRSvm0dd_EI/AAAAAAAALK8/W-91vs6HmOIqdDhvJ-C0siCkOE3DfuONgCLcB/s640/18342785_10212759561892272_9093745419145431666_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
I am so grateful that so many chaperones took a ton of pictures (far too many to show here) and sent them to me because Todd didn't take ANY. Can you believe that? I am a photo freak and the dude doesn't take any pictures. So glad I have all of these fantastic pics. I even have pics of them eating (and praying) at The Hard Rock Cafe and Gadsby's Tavern Museum.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqZUhoX9ovU/WRSxnlE7-KI/AAAAAAAALLE/50hytIGxTf4SR1Co3cQu0NNU1WqUS2zJQCLcB/s1600/18342142_10212759553612065_7326896886134060052_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqZUhoX9ovU/WRSxnlE7-KI/AAAAAAAALLE/50hytIGxTf4SR1Co3cQu0NNU1WqUS2zJQCLcB/s320/18342142_10212759553612065_7326896886134060052_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dzdg6WV10R0/WRSxnmygA0I/AAAAAAAALLI/hbrJ2zHqTHEMMswMrkg1PrmldRpFaaRxwCLcB/s1600/18268425_1308122549241391_4237427159641736105_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dzdg6WV10R0/WRSxnmygA0I/AAAAAAAALLI/hbrJ2zHqTHEMMswMrkg1PrmldRpFaaRxwCLcB/s320/18268425_1308122549241391_4237427159641736105_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
It was a fabulous and also an exhausting trip. They walked until almost 10 o'clock every night and they would get up at 5 o'clock in the morning to start walking again. They got home at midnight on Friday, happy and exhausted.<br />
<br />
Of course there is no rest for the weary. Saturday morning Todd was up bright and early to head up north and plant 200 trees across the road from the cabin with Ben and Tommy. Joey was also up bright and early for his Young Eagles meeting at the airport.<br />
<br />
To Joe's pleasant surprise it was a meeting in which the kids would be able to actually go up in a plane with an instructor. Joe was super excited, to say the least.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zyu8SA4YggM/WRCFpL6j7aI/AAAAAAAALJM/HbvH-Zoqi-0E3KhTmnAjZ21mnPvHm2yFwCLcB/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zyu8SA4YggM/WRCFpL6j7aI/AAAAAAAALJM/HbvH-Zoqi-0E3KhTmnAjZ21mnPvHm2yFwCLcB/s640/4.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Joe was even more excited that he got to sit up front. AND he was BEYOND excited when he got to FLY THE PLANE. That's RIGHT! JOE FLEW THE PLANE. And he flew for a good 15 minutes, up the Lake Michigan coast, over our house, and back to the airport. He wasn't expecting it at all but the instructor handed the plane over to Joe with complete confidence. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SchLN2hFy2k/WRCFnu62PKI/AAAAAAAALJE/Bl9S2CTmefwoMJtiao1wa57QOIov2l2XQCLcB/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SchLN2hFy2k/WRCFnu62PKI/AAAAAAAALJE/Bl9S2CTmefwoMJtiao1wa57QOIov2l2XQCLcB/s640/3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t2pBIO4fa8k/WRCFjOossJI/AAAAAAAALI8/UdIBX5gwnQ4ibYy9-s1k0yA4oOwtO0DTgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t2pBIO4fa8k/WRCFjOossJI/AAAAAAAALI8/UdIBX5gwnQ4ibYy9-s1k0yA4oOwtO0DTgCLcB/s640/DSC_0168.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0asKJBZAH0c/WRCG4EYBUfI/AAAAAAAALJk/qMnRLwjawmgwBuaCL4azJo6RQSsFHXGHgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0asKJBZAH0c/WRCG4EYBUfI/AAAAAAAALJk/qMnRLwjawmgwBuaCL4azJo6RQSsFHXGHgCLcB/s640/DSC_0170.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I wasn't expecting it either and when the pilot told me that Joe did a great job flying the plane my jaw dropped. Amazing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IiRm_hHrdUY/WRCFvmhOW1I/AAAAAAAALJY/s5guWSIqjkMtFFCxt9nP0Q6Aost0i5HMACLcB/s1600/DSC_0182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IiRm_hHrdUY/WRCFvmhOW1I/AAAAAAAALJY/s5guWSIqjkMtFFCxt9nP0Q6Aost0i5HMACLcB/s640/DSC_0182.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Young Eagles club is such an incredible program. It only costs $5 per meeting (they meet once a month) and going up in the plane is FREE. Can you believe that? What these kids are learning is invaluable. They get flight experience and log hours for free. Incredible! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oCaprCki_G8/WRCFnz6ozjI/AAAAAAAALJI/Q1Q-adEa7sIjGaDYSd-VrIWBMu__AaDaQCLcB/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oCaprCki_G8/WRCFnz6ozjI/AAAAAAAALJI/Q1Q-adEa7sIjGaDYSd-VrIWBMu__AaDaQCLcB/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Joe earned his Young Eagles certificate and is officially logged in to the EAA logbook in Oshkosh, WI. So very exciting.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mba2MCwTHPk/WRCFntIoRJI/AAAAAAAALJA/-BjpUhb5ArIcsfj39aPEWkZdVINBfm1UgCLcB/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mba2MCwTHPk/WRCFntIoRJI/AAAAAAAALJA/-BjpUhb5ArIcsfj39aPEWkZdVINBfm1UgCLcB/s640/1.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
<br />
It is definitely a day Joe will never forget. He bought an aviation hat to remember his first flight ever and I wrote the date and time on the back of the hat in permanent marker. <br />
<br />
It was a completely amazing and wonderful few days for Joey. He is so grateful for that week of his life. I know it is something he will never forget.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-35304382063984499292017-04-30T18:09:00.000-05:002017-05-01T18:16:09.677-05:00God Bless Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It seems like just yesterday we were having Grace baptized. Today she received her First Holy Communion. It was a special day.</div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tyVInJYQts8/WQY70oJ9hgI/AAAAAAAALGM/2eyIRlYQS00VNRN0OewMr1khqgumi2M2wCLcB/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tyVInJYQts8/WQY70oJ9hgI/AAAAAAAALGM/2eyIRlYQS00VNRN0OewMr1khqgumi2M2wCLcB/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a very windy, cold, and rainy day. No outdoor pictures in front of colorful flowers. I was disappointed but I think it actually worked out for the best. I got a few very nice pictures of Grace sitting in front of the window in our dining room. They turned out really well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-14DnunStflk/WQZoq_dpu4I/AAAAAAAALG4/RLtYscFRzLkzuHycXihBmC_1bc-_e1nCACLcB/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-14DnunStflk/WQZoq_dpu4I/AAAAAAAALG4/RLtYscFRzLkzuHycXihBmC_1bc-_e1nCACLcB/s640/4.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hLBhmRpn_ZE/WQZqq79sY2I/AAAAAAAALHE/y_-JdnLwLcMcELAdVk-7cbdk3RzfgjJqQCLcB/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hLBhmRpn_ZE/WQZqq79sY2I/AAAAAAAALHE/y_-JdnLwLcMcELAdVk-7cbdk3RzfgjJqQCLcB/s640/5.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VdhvcYv0B5A/WQY7m7iuEdI/AAAAAAAALFk/gw9VgYVvrR0HKOxzRgVXjLh0cj67TSYgQCLcB/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VdhvcYv0B5A/WQY7m7iuEdI/AAAAAAAALFk/gw9VgYVvrR0HKOxzRgVXjLh0cj67TSYgQCLcB/s640/1.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I must admit that I was teary for the majority of the day. I tried mightily to hold back the tears as Grace lined up in the back of church. I just can't believe how quickly she is growing up. And she just looked so precious. My heart was overflowing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6lPXPN-cUDU/WQY7rLBbV0I/AAAAAAAALFo/zcPUS_06ne8XliMn6cQ3Ch7DKtASHSrUwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6lPXPN-cUDU/WQY7rLBbV0I/AAAAAAAALFo/zcPUS_06ne8XliMn6cQ3Ch7DKtASHSrUwCLcB/s640/DSC_0139.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Grace took the ceremony very seriously. When she saw this picture she wondered why she looked mad. I told her she has the same downturned mouth that her mama does so if we aren't smiling we either look sad or mad. Really, I think she was just concentrating.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--BbuxC_argY/WQY7sH-U1VI/AAAAAAAALFs/nJcK_rgAztQtG2eU1QVcXGC_sCWnUd2FACLcB/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--BbuxC_argY/WQY7sH-U1VI/AAAAAAAALFs/nJcK_rgAztQtG2eU1QVcXGC_sCWnUd2FACLcB/s640/DSC_0140.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
When Grace was up at the altar with her baptismal candle she took a deep cleansing breath and exhaled. She accidentally blew out her candle. The man with the lighter was close by but she refused to speak up to get it lit again. The girl can be very shy. I could tell she was a little miffed that she had no flame.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4cVK-1YuXZY/WQY7sPGY1DI/AAAAAAAALFw/Jei5PN_KHIc34VQJdkg9RT19pmgrRpsVQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4cVK-1YuXZY/WQY7sPGY1DI/AAAAAAAALFw/Jei5PN_KHIc34VQJdkg9RT19pmgrRpsVQCLcB/s640/DSC_0145.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Other than that very tiny little problem with the candle everything else went off without a hitch.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jf7wmmTqEEI/WQfBqL5H6-I/AAAAAAAALHc/LSih2uvicZodReOPLK0lLgtFlAOn-3HHgCLcB/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jf7wmmTqEEI/WQfBqL5H6-I/AAAAAAAALHc/LSih2uvicZodReOPLK0lLgtFlAOn-3HHgCLcB/s640/image1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a beautiful ceremony.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QQ3C6k8H4z0/WQY7s5njFcI/AAAAAAAALF0/RTaZA6oOd_4Lddos9sov2FtLhq7-EWRtACLcB/s1600/DSC_0148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QQ3C6k8H4z0/WQY7s5njFcI/AAAAAAAALF0/RTaZA6oOd_4Lddos9sov2FtLhq7-EWRtACLcB/s640/DSC_0148.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Afterwards we had to get a few pictures of Grace with the family and the grandmas.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A7NC8zHsQXg/WQY7t9N2QiI/AAAAAAAALF8/64pmFj_EAtUDKSGqZMTjb8yDv_r1QbjlQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A7NC8zHsQXg/WQY7t9N2QiI/AAAAAAAALF8/64pmFj_EAtUDKSGqZMTjb8yDv_r1QbjlQCLcB/s640/DSC_0151.JPG" width="446" /></a></div>
I just love this one of Grace. So sweet. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wKnaBaxN3ho/WQY7t9jSzaI/AAAAAAAALF4/VUnLW78_AwU15tzjWXolWVEfG_-58OfvACLcB/s1600/DSC_0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wKnaBaxN3ho/WQY7t9jSzaI/AAAAAAAALF4/VUnLW78_AwU15tzjWXolWVEfG_-58OfvACLcB/s640/DSC_0152.JPG" width="430" /></a></div>
Ben, my little photographer, took a picture of Todd and I with Grace. I think he did a nice job!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xnh97mXLogM/WQY7xh2fHKI/AAAAAAAALGA/ulkXHqgE7ZIw8-U8gUwKSaT_fbHOtde5QCLcB/s1600/DSC_0154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xnh97mXLogM/WQY7xh2fHKI/AAAAAAAALGA/ulkXHqgE7ZIw8-U8gUwKSaT_fbHOtde5QCLcB/s640/DSC_0154.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
When we got home I realized I had forgotten to get a picture of Grace with her banner. She was happy to pose for me again.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q_DSes-Vebo/WQY7zGum0-I/AAAAAAAALGE/Bd6UP0Cn7zof9MSCr8pv-DLwzYFvrVGZQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q_DSes-Vebo/WQY7zGum0-I/AAAAAAAALGE/Bd6UP0Cn7zof9MSCr8pv-DLwzYFvrVGZQCLcB/s640/DSC_0156.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
The boys were so proud of their little sister, and they were so sweet to her. They were lavishing her with love and praise, telling her that she was beautiful and looked like a princess. Joey even told her how proud he was of her and that he loved her very much. It was enough to make this mama cry.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0VnQetn1IdI/WQY7zP1eHyI/AAAAAAAALGI/TOC7cxTHw5g8QaG-WYf18o3UHh87MElMwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0VnQetn1IdI/WQY7zP1eHyI/AAAAAAAALGI/TOC7cxTHw5g8QaG-WYf18o3UHh87MElMwCLcB/s640/DSC_0158.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
Of course I had to get a picture of me and my girl too. Ben did a great job taking this picture as well.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wN87qydLEBQ/WQY71dodb9I/AAAAAAAALGU/CaevgPbGwmgtGtqRRrEmW6vmfpX39czygCLcB/s1600/DSC_0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wN87qydLEBQ/WQY71dodb9I/AAAAAAAALGU/CaevgPbGwmgtGtqRRrEmW6vmfpX39czygCLcB/s400/DSC_0162.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
We celebrated with cake and pizza and a few presents too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8VGBAf9rChg/WQY700L0hWI/AAAAAAAALGQ/e6AuOTGtwOUshFfO-o0kz8Obw4kQ39zSACLcB/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8VGBAf9rChg/WQY700L0hWI/AAAAAAAALGQ/e6AuOTGtwOUshFfO-o0kz8Obw4kQ39zSACLcB/s640/PicMonkey%2BCollage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
As the day wore on and our guests left Grace still did not want to change out of her fancy dress. Not that I can blame her. It is too pretty of a dress to only get to wear one time. I wouldn't be surprised if she wanted to wear it to bed tonight.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KeBN8yptduI/WQZil0ITkwI/AAAAAAAALGk/0sFrmoxUujYNfn8b7ctlk5YzSz0KuKuFQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KeBN8yptduI/WQZil0ITkwI/AAAAAAAALGk/0sFrmoxUujYNfn8b7ctlk5YzSz0KuKuFQCLcB/s640/DSC_0175.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fiPiosm0IFw/WQZiosVXC6I/AAAAAAAALGo/YBX0hxgB9rgfGIbevFeavqWRlZTMn_wuwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fiPiosm0IFw/WQZiosVXC6I/AAAAAAAALGo/YBX0hxgB9rgfGIbevFeavqWRlZTMn_wuwCLcB/s640/DSC_0172.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
It was a beautiful and holy day for my sweet girl.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UjWBiqXndwA/WQY7m8a_uwI/AAAAAAAALFg/fQn3CSTJ8mk_MrzEo-PIpXTSwvY2J6wEwCLcB/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UjWBiqXndwA/WQY7m8a_uwI/AAAAAAAALFg/fQn3CSTJ8mk_MrzEo-PIpXTSwvY2J6wEwCLcB/s640/2.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
Congratulations on your First Holy Communion, Grace! May God be with you and bless you today and always. Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7390236678783638686.post-24313617652374069592017-04-29T14:59:00.001-05:002017-04-29T14:59:57.583-05:00They Know Me So Well... Kind ofI am not a morning person. I need a good amount of coffee to get myself moving in the morning. And I'm still not particularly chatty even after I've had my coffee. Because I am not a morning person I do not really enjoy eating breakfast. It just seems to sit in my stomach like a rock so early in the morning. As a matter of fact, I very rarely eat breakfast at all. If I have to eat something, maybe before a run, I will have a banana. I love breakfast foods, just not for breakfast. I am a conundrum.<br />
<br />
Last weekend for my birthday the kids burst into my bedroom, at some ungodly hour, with a big tray of breakfast that they just made me. There was singing, and lights, and cameras, and all kinds of craziness while I was still only half conscious. It was quite the scene. I had all I could do to keep from laughing.<br />
<br />
While it wasn't exactly how I pictured my birthday morning it turned out to be one of the most memorable birthdays I've ever had. The kids knew just how I liked my eggs, how light I prefer my toast, and how to prepare my coffee. Heck, they even brought me the crossword puzzle from the morning paper. They just temporarily forgot how much I liked my sleep in their haste to spoil me. And who could be upset about that? It was precious.<br />
<br />
The rest of the day was more relaxing. I sat outside ALL DAY enjoying the unseasonally lovely weather. It was sunny and warm and my back patio was the perfect spot to sit and read my book. I barely moved all day. Every half hour or so one of the kids would come sit by me and ask me if they could get me anything. More coffee? Some ice water? A sandwich? They really were trying to make me feel special. It worked.<br />
<br />
That evening Todd and I got spiffed up and went out to eat at one of our favorite restaurants. The food was amazing, as usual, and my chocolate martini was perfection. It was a fantastic birthday dinner. We finished the night at fundraising gala for our kids' school. I swear I am at some school event every year for my birthday (last year I was onstage with the boys for the school musical). It is becoming a habit. Not that I mind.<br />
<br />
It was a very memorable birthday.<br />
I hadn't asked for anything for my birthday but I received quite a bit. Lots of love and lots of spoiling. I am a lucky lady.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Kathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14339665205284492242noreply@blogger.com3