First Do No Harm

And Then There Were Nine

2015-09-30T11:43:00.000-04:00

I have been away from my blog for way too long. I'm unable to access my photographs. I've tried every which way. It obviously is going to require a trip to the Genius at the Apple Store. Time being a sparse commodity these days, I'm still working on making that trip.

This is an attempt to see if I can get some photographs on here in a back door way. Because the reason for this post deserves photographs aplenty!

The last post I wrote was about our daughter's wedding to her Dearly Beloved. I'm happy to announce that she and her husband have blessed us with another grand baby...NUMBER NINE! We now have six girls and three boys. Lorelai Elise was born on August 6, 2015, 4:42 AM. Her sweet Mom was experiencing problems with edema and rising blood pressure and protein which lead to preeclampsia. What was supposed to be a routine check with the Dr turned into 'Go Directly To The Hospital Now' moment.

Elise was a brave Momma working to bring her sweet Lorelai into the world. It was a moment in my life that truly there aren't enough words for. I had been warned it's different when it's your daughter giving birth. They were so right and as I was there and an involved participant it was also thrilling and terrifying at the same time. I'm glad for the years of practice keeping it calm on the outside while internally there is a tempest brewing.

As the story or Lorelai's birth is her Momma's and not mine, I'm going to go directly to the main reason for this post and present to you in photos our sweet, beautiful, precious...new kid on the block...

LORELAI ELISE

Mom and Dad worked very hard on Lorelai's nursery. That Degree in Design paid off once again!

She's been a really sweet baby from the beginning. Mom and Dad are doing a beautiful job in their new role as parents! I'm having a wonderful time playing Gramma with a new baby all over again!

We've had a busy year. All the family is in good health, the rest of the grandkids are doing wonderful. I hope to write another post soon and show you how they've grown.

Loves~Loves~Loves~

Dearly Beloved...

2014-06-18T09:12:00.000-04:00

First I need to let you my dear readers know that the photographs with the watermark Heba Salama photography are scattered throughout this post. There is no mistaking the beauty and quality of Heba's photographs compared with the others. The Heba Salama photography photos are not to be duplicated please. She has posted these photos on her blog. Until we get to go through all of the moments she captured that day, I will use these from her blog and the other photos were captured for the most part by Dave's Uncle Dan. We have more wonderful family now thanks to our ever widening circle of love!

I will write more about the events leading up to this very special day. I'll try and back track at a later date to include the thoughtful and fun Showers given by friends, and the beautiful Bridal Luncheon my wonderful and loving daughters-in-love hosted in honor of Elise. The touching and delicious Rehearsal Dinner hosted by our new son-in-love's parents and the very special After After the Rehearsal Dinner bash my siblings threw. I could write volumes, but there are certain moments of Elise and Dave's Wedding Day I want to make sure to commit to this post.

Steve, Elise and I woke early the morning of her wedding day. We had a suite at a nearby hotel for everyone to get ready, but our daughter chose to spend one last night in her own bedroom in the home where she grew up. We skiddadled like crazy to get to the hotel to be there for hair and make up with her bridesmaids and some photo ops with the flower girls and ring bearers. Mimosas and breakfast snacks and fruit and cheese were sustenance for the morning.

I do want to mention these beautiful and fun loving girls were Elise's best pals all through her years spent at UNC-G in the Interior Architecture program. A talented, beautiful and wonderful group I hold dear in my heart as surely as Elise.

As hair and makeup lasted longer than expected we had to cut short our photo ops and only had a very few with the flower girls and the ring bearers. Trey and Peter were relieved they were given a short reprieve from photos. After the photos the bride and her bridesmaid and matrons of honor and the ring bearers and Pop and Sush all piled in the limo for a fancy ride to the Church!

And yes! The Flower Girls wore glittery gold Toms for their Wedding Shoes!

We had a verrry short ride to the Church thank goodness as I was feeling like Cinderella getting close to midnight. We were running behind and I didn't like that feeling! Dashing into the office area of the Church we quickly dressed Elise in her wedding gown. Thank goodness for those girls because I was all sixes and sevens trying to get her dressed. Heba was directing the show, I'm not sure if it was the Lord's intervention but heaven knows I was not up to the task. My friend took charge with her usual style and humor! We had the photo op first look of her Dad and her brothers before we sent the brothers off to be ushers. I do believe as we had to get her dressed in the Church office those pictures will have several Popes cheering us on! I gave my daughter a quick kiss and headed over to take my place in line for the ceremony. Oh wow…it was all a fast moving fairy tale at this point! I walked down the stairs to the area just outside the sanctuary. All the kidlets and wedding party members were gathered waiting for directions for their line up. Heba took my arm and turned me around, gestured to my family and said, Susie, look what you've done...

The fullness in my heart when I turned and looked up the Church stairs where the 'Church Lady' was arranging all the members of the wedding party was beyond measure. There, except for my husband and daughter (secreted away in a stifling confessional room) were my children and almost all the grandchildren from both the bride and groom's side. It was truly a family affair and will always be a treasured memory forever in my heart.

I am hoping our fantastic photographer of Heba Salama Photography, has a photo of that treasured memory but if not the fullness of heart for my life's blessings will aways remain. I truly had to turn away to keep myself from dissolving in a puddle of grateful tears. I am always very mindful of how blessed we are to have such a loving family; to look up and see them all in their wedding splendor was quite breathtaking. Smiling and enjoying the moment were my grown sons with either their daughters or sons…tugging down dresses and straightening bow ties. Beautiful. Loving. Joyous.

I don't ever want to forget the moment when my brother, my only brother, and yes to me always, my baby brother, escorted me up the aisle. Special does not begin to describe how I felt when he agreed to be my escort. The knowing in my heart as I started out with him patting my hand telling me, 'you tell me when you're ready'…that my Mother and Dad were really smiling down with their own hearts full. Bill had walked my Mom up the aisle as each of her daughters, his sisters, were married. When Bill first escorted Mom he was a toddler. His last waltz down the aisle with Mom he was sixteen. Bill's no longer a teen and neither am I. I do feel like we completed a circle with our own waltz up the aisle.

Dave's Dad was his Best Man…how loving, how special!

I've had four turns as Mother of the Groom…what a change it was to be Mother of the Bride…thank you Angela and David for your wonderful son!

Watching the best friends of our bride and groom standing by their side as they were married; those are moments forever in my heart.

A special thank you to The Brothers who answered their baby sister's call and agreed to be her 'Bridesmen'. They toasted Elise at the Rehearsal Dinner with a reminder that they would always be there and her Oh Boys! At the Wedding Reception her oldest brother toasted her once again with a reminder to Dave that they now counted him in the number of OH BOYS and knew he would always be there to answer Elise's call as well. Gulp, how to make a Momma cry!

My sons were either holding hands with their Flower Girl daughters or encouraging their sons that were Ring Bearers. It was truly a family affair. Positively the sounds of Beethoven's Ode to Joy was just the right musical selection. Each and every one of those walking the aisle were a great Joy in our hearts. I don't yet have photographs from the Church, but here are some from either before the ceremony or from the introductions at the receptions site.

Well I wouldn't want to be rude and leave out the Bride and Groom's grand entrance…

Later a friend would tell me a future bride in attendance told her she was going to re-examine the thought that children detract from the bride. She said that she had never been to a wedding where they framed and completed the bride so beautifully. But that has been our story; each and every one of our children frame one another and cast an aura of love for one another.

And then the moment, yes the sob escaped and my tears flowed…turning and seeing the Church doors swing open to the joyous sounds of Cannon in D! Pachelbel captured the solemnity and grandness of that moment so beautifully in his music. Standing proud, beautiful as the angel she is and smiling with her heart full was Elise and my loving and wonderful husband so proud with his heart so full. A beautiful sight to behold and to treasure for all my life.

I hope I will always remember the happy sound of our Katie-Kate when Elise reached Dave and she said in such a very precious voice, "Ohhhh YAY!". Even Father laughed with the rest of the congregation! These are the memories I hope my heart forever remembers.

The ceremony was lovely and Father Schrieber gave a meaningful sermon. The lighting of the Unity Candle to There Is Love or as some know it, The Wedding Song, was really touching. The wedding party and family stayed after the ceremony for more wedding pictures. With a family the size of ours my dear photographer had her hands full placing what she called her puzzle pieces!

Our choice for the wedding reception was a dairy farm about 40 minutes from where we live. I must say it was a beautiful location but it was that way because our wedding planner worked so hard to make it so. the owner of the venue had been ill for much of the winter and the site was showing the lack of care. Chad came to our rescue. He spent two days making sure it was as lovely as we wanted. Chad Biggs, owner of Your First Impression events planning, held our hand and walked me through all the steps to get to our big day. I would not have been able to have had the party we did without his expertise and very hard work.

From tearing out twinkle lights that no longer worked and replacing them with working lights, to mowing the fields and having his crew paint the railings, Chad and his crew did it all. Chad clearly understood our idea of what we wanted the reception to convey and the beauty we wanted and made it all come true. Elise had always wanted a rustic setting with an elegant feel. With the fields and the pond for a back drop it was a gorgeous site. However I will say anyone using the facility without him will be very disappointed. Our photographer Heba who had been to this venue before as a photographer said she had never seen it look as beautiful as Chad had created.

The way we decided to set up for the event was to have the dinner inside the building and a tent set up outside for dancing. Everything turned out better than we had hoped for! The weather was a balmy 80 degrees in the afternoon and as the sun went down it cooled down to the lower 60's. Inside the facility Chad created a fairyland of twinkling lights intertwined with grapevines. Our florist, Shelley Pearson of Expressions of Love florist (suggested by Chad) had made glorious flower arrangements and bouquets. It was all so lovely, I only wish more people had seen it after the sun went down! When I walked back in to speak with someone it really was amazing…all aglow.

One of Elise's former professors from UNC-G is an artist. Her art is in stores all over the nation. We commissioned her to make a sketch of Dave's truck and turn it into a memory of the day. We had stamp pads for people to ink their fingers and forever become a tin can in their lives! What a fun and happy piece of art they now have!

The band was absolutely fantastic and we all danced the night away. HeartBeat of Soul could not have been better! That was one thing I made sure would happen. Elise loves to dance and loves a good band. I said I didn't much care how our wedding planner made it happen but Elise would spend most of her time at the reception being able to dance to her heart's delight. They did. We all did! We even had a real N' Awlins Second Line going to make it a real celebration…

We had the traditional Father/Daughter dance…Daddy and his beautiful girl danced to Isn't She Lovely. Her Daddy's first name is Steve. Elise thought it was a very good choice written by another Stevie Wonder. You know my Grandmother always called my husband, Mr Wonderful!

And the Bride and Groom danced their first dance to Darling You Send Me…Sam Cooke had it so right!

They really had their audience captivated…

The cutting of the wedding cake, the bridal bouquet toss (All The Single Ladies) thank you Beyonce…it makes it so fun! And the removal of and garter toss! They all just seemed to come at once and so fast. What a whirlwind night of fun and love! Oh and the special toast from my husband to his daughter. She had a few rolling of her eyes as he does like to elaborate how wonderful his children are. It was really very special and loving.

May I just say that it is truly a fact to remember that it doesn't matter what things might go wrong on the wedding day. It is the people and the memories they make that are what count. We had our fair share of things that didn't happen that should have and things that shouldn't have happened that did. But what did happen was the uniting of two beautiful hearts. Father reminded us all during the ceremony…may they be happier in fifty years than they were on their very special day. Because I know they were so very happy on this day. All too soon they were off in a flurry of confetti and to their Honeymoon in Grenada Sandals…The Spice Island!

Congratulations to the new Mr and Mrs and as always...

~Loves~Loves~Loves~

In no particular order, extra photos courtesy of our family photographers and professional photographer:

Abby had a tutu even though she was too young to walk the aisle, George had a seersucker suit!

Molly had a tutu as well, even though she was too young to walk the aisle!

Meet Molly

2014-03-20T17:48:00.001-04:00

Life is so joyous if not very busy and hectic around these parts! Joy abounds for we now have a darling, wonderful and so precious new granddaughter…Molly Christine. Molly arrived February 26 and we could not be happier! Mom, Dad, Grace and Molly are doing very well, if not somewhat sleep deprived. And so it goes…

Grace had her first sleepover sans Mom and Dad while waiting for baby sister's arrival. I was anxious to join the expectant parents per their invitation but wanted to make sure Grace was snug as a bug and sound asleep first! While we were trying to fall asleep as a team she was very busy entertaining her Gramma and Aunt keeping us in giggles. Then she would sit up give us a stern look and say, "No more laughing" and proceed to do another funny thing that would send us into another fit of laughter. Finally, she was able to calm us down and quiet us enough so she could fall asleep!

Once I made sure everyone on the home front was soundly sleeping I headed up to the hospital to check on the progress in the labor department. Needless to say, Mom was very busy with her job at hand. I tried to sit on the sidelines and let them have their special time with as little intrusion as possible. It was a very real reminder of just how miraculous and extremely hard work giving birth is. I can't begin to tell you how honored and touched I was to be included.

Around midnight when it was apparent Molly was not rushing to join us I headed home to try and catch a few winks so I'd be of sound mind (well that is always questionable) for Grace in the morning. I got a call at 3 AM Molly was soon to arrive. I threw on my clothes rushed out the door and joined the new family just in time to see Molly being gently cradled in Mom's arms! Around 6 AM I headed back to my home to be with Grace. Aunt Elise held court for Grace until 9AM while I grabbed a few more hours of sleep.

Later in the afternoon Grace and I went up to meet her sister! How sweet is this new family? I am in love with every one of them and Molly is so blessed to be the newest member of this loving branch of our family tree!

We can't get enough of this sweet baby girl. Molly you are so loved and so dear…thank you Erin and Scott for giving us yet another lovely grandchild to love and cherish.

Loves~Loves~Loves~

Coming Soon...

2014-01-08T03:08:00.000-05:00

Oh I make myself laugh sometimes, but I am so ever hopeful life calms down a tad and I can start blogging again. With our daughter's wedding in May it might just be wishful thinking. We went to Houston for a January 4 wedding for our darling and beautiful niece. Spent two days in the airport before we were able to actually fly out, the return trip consisted only of two delays and one gate change… of course at the opposite end of the concourse! As we made it home and there were so many other horror stories I am feeling grateful we didn't have it worse!

Here's a few pictures of what has been going on in our lives…very few. Tomorrow the arrival of a new washing machine will take up much of my time as we have loads of loads to wash. One week with a dead washing machine equals quite a bit of laundry.

Happy New Year and hope to have an honest to goodness post coming to a blog near you soon…
xoxox
Loves~Loves~Loves~

Thanksgiving 2013

Group was so big we divided it into ladies and gentlemen for our Christmas gathering…

Ladies Christmas 2013

Gentlemen Christmas 2013

That's all for now folks...

What Can I Say…They Keep Me Happy Annnnd Busy

2013-12-17T16:07:00.001-05:00

Hi All! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas around here! We had the whole clan for Thanksgiving and it was so much fun. I even managed to get them all to take a picture. I'm still waiting on the one that includes my kids with their kids but I will settle for this lovely and joyous photo. And, yes, I did add the hats!

All the family is getting together this weekend before Christmas. We will spend Christmas day with some of the family but not all. This year the cousins did a Secret Santa with one another so I'm thinking it will be fun! I always enjoy watching MY kids do their Secret Santa…each one waiting to see who drew their name!

Once again we will have Abigail and George and their fantastic and (tired) parents here. I do so enjoy having them here. At six months they are cooing and talking and eating some solid foods. We still have the annual decorating of the gingerbread houses coming up! This IS such a fun time of year.

Merry Christmas to each and every one. May the season fill your hearts with love and bring you peace and joy in your new year!

I'll be watching you…
Hugs~

I Miss You When You Leave

2013-12-04T01:49:00.000-05:00

This is an unexpected and short post. I know I have no leg to stand on in regards to blog respites. I in fact think they are important for us all. They give us a chance to reconnect with the real world and all those we love in our real lives. What really makes me sad though, is when someone decides to quit blogging entirely, and even worse when the blog is closed down without any explanation. My mind tends to run to 'worst case scenarios' and I worry about my bloggie friends.

I was able to have a brief but nice chat with Desiree from Driftwood Ramblings, our dear friend from South Africa after connecting with her daughter on Linda's FB page. And now Marsha from Spots and Wrinkles has 'Unavailable' on her last post. The text says this blog is no longer available. Sigh…I do hope she is well. If anyone knows anything about our dear friend, please let me know.

Please, if any of you decide to leave our blogging community…would you leave with us knowing why? Even just check in maybe once or twice a year? I have lost a dear friend to cancer in our blogging world. I miss her sweet blog and always inspiring words. But to not know what has happened when it is an abrupt departure is just so sad.

Much love to you all and forgive me if I've stepped on toes. It is never my intent. I do, I mean I really truly do feel like we have a dear community in our blogosphere and I truly do care for each of you.

Hugs and Loves~Loves~Loves~

All Over The Place

2013-11-22T05:33:00.000-05:00

Greetings and Salutations…
Oh my we've had ourselves a busy time! I'm afraid I'm going to just do the ole' photo dump again to hopefully bring this poor blog up to some kind of current state.

We did have other things happening at the annual beach trip to Holden Beach other than that wonderful proposal.

The house we stayed in this year…we keep going up in size as the family keeps growing... was really delightful. Everyone enjoyed the pool and the ocean views!

We have some comparison photos from last summer to this one…Daniel and Laura's world changed the most…from relaxing sans bebes to never a dull moment with bebes!

Grace and Kate have gone from leaning on each other for support…to sitting upright independently but still loving one anothers company!

The girls are growing up…pretty soon we won't be using high chairs for these two…of course Ms Lily has long been sans a high chair!

Always looking for fun things to do when it's too hot to be on the beach we made beach pudding cups with paper umbrellas and teddy graham bears, gummy life savers, twirlers for noodles and other treats!

If you squint really hard you might be able to see Daniel and Laura enjoying some solo time on the beach. The two shaded spots right by the water…parents on the lam! Abigail and George do keep them hopping.

Pop and Sush were happy to keep an eye on our sweet babies while Mom and Dad relaxed!

Grace and her Daddy, Scott, had fun in the water!

Pop was always ready to spend some time at the water's edge with his wee ones! Grace and Pop were loving the beach!

(Speaking of Grace and her Mom and Dad…we are thrilled to be able to announce some exciting news for their family…I'll let Grace explain…

Slight change on the due date…we are now awaiting the newest grand baby, scheduled to arrive in February! We just keep expanding our circle of love in this family! We do know that Grace is having a sister, so the girls are still in the lead! I am so thrilled! It was verrry hard to keep that a secret.)

Soon it was time for a group picture of those still remaining at the end of our beach vacation. Always times flies the fastest when we are all together and having fun!

Peter and Trey weren't able to join us at the beach this year as they had already started school. However they were busy water bugs! Trey joined the neighborhood swim team this year and loved it!

Peter was able to get to the beach with his family earlier…and like his Sush, loves his toes in the water and well…you know the rest of the song…

Trey and Peter's Dad, our oldest son, Steve, was busy this summer training for his first marathon! He did very well, coming in third in his class! His forté was swimming. He's decided if he makes this a real sport he may graduate to a more serious bike. He said he was on the receiving end of some pretty funny looks as he cycled passed the spectators ringing his little bell!

Way to go champ! We are so proud of you!

Shortly after the beach trip we headed up to visit Daniel, Laura and the babies. It was time for Abigail and George to have their baptism. What a very special day and a wonderful memory for us all. Abigail wore the heirloom gown my grandmother made for my Dad. You will remember Trey and Peter and Lily wore it for their baptism. George wore an heirloom gown from Laura's grandfather. It was certainly a very special way to honor the generations before…

We've had some sleepovers with Trey and Peter…

Lily has had her turn at a sleepover as well…always loving the dress up bin…and this time it was close enough to Halloween she could play dress up with some of the decorations!

And Kate and Lily modeled the Halloween shirts I found for them! Aren't they growing?

Speaking of Halloween…I was invited to join Kate and Grace and their moms, Lisa and Erin at the local library Halloween festival! Cutest cupcake ever our Gracie was, and Kate made for one precious bumble bee!

Abby and George were sporting some costumes of their own…Laura and Dan were dressed as themselves!

We've had other visits…and more red letter days to share. But I will have to digress to those another day! For now I will leave you with the most recent visit of Abigail and George. Momma Laura went for a much deserved girl's weekend with her best friend and Daddy Daniel came to visit us with the two in tow! We had soooo much fun and are looking forward to having the whole clan together for Thanksgiving!

The photos aren't in any particular order and are fairly self explanatory. The last two of Abby and George were sent by Dan and Laura. The twins are wearing some onesies I couldn't pass up…Osh Kosh b'Gosh makes the cutest baby clothes!

Until I decide to stay up late to post another…
Loves~Loves~Loves~

That Day...

2013-10-09T00:14:00.000-04:00

I don't know how long in a Mother's life of having a daughter it takes before you start thinking of the day she becomes a bride. I do know through the years we have talked about it and all the fun and special things we would do leading up to her wedding and to making her wedding day hers! We had what will probably be one of my best memories, always special in our hearts this past weekend. It was the day Elise found her wedding dress and veil.

It wasn't the first day we had been searching. There was a dress she fell in love with, and really looked beautiful on her. It was very stylish and fashionable...but it was the first attempt at finding 'the dress' so I suggested we go to at least one or two more places so she would know in her heart she had found her dress...the one she dreamed of for so long. The one all little girls think about as they are growing up, imagining their Cinderella and Prince Charming day.

Saturday, we headed out to another bridal shop. Mother and daughter...enjoying spending time with each other and wondering what we would find. I know Elise well enough to know she knows what she likes and what she doesn't in most everything. Without a doubt when it comes to her clothes she knows what she knows. I hardly shop for clothes for her by myself anymore. Probably, I haven't done it since she was five...she knows what she knows and I threw up my hands long ago in trying to get it right.

With this in my memory bank I let her browse the racks of dresses and select to her heart's content. A few may have caused a wrinkle of my nose...at least that's what she observed. Those were left hanging on the rack. I did try not to wrinkle I promise! I was raised with a tape that remains to this day playing in my head...there is a difference between fashion and good taste. Can't make it stop and some of the 'fashionable' dresses are quite lacking in the good taste department! She had quite the pile of dresses by the time she was done perusing.

The young lady assigned to be our attendant directed us back to a dressing room adjacent to a large room with mirrors and platforms. Elise chose the first dress she wanted to try on...it was beautiful. When she walked out to the larger room and onto the platform everyone else in the room grew silent. She looked beautiful. Elise got a smile on her face and did the twisty turny, swishy thing all women do when looking at all angles of themselves in a special dress. The attendant fluffed up all the special parts and all in the room smiled. With a Mona Lisa smile Elise got down from the platform and tried on the remaining dresses. All were beautiful, I kept quiet trying so hard not to influence her decision. My Mother had been wonderful all throughout the planning of my wedding and the selections I made. She kept telling me, 'I had my day as a bride...this is your day...you decide'. I've tried to remember that every time one of my children was planning a wedding. Groom or bride, I've wanted them to have what they want not their parents.

Elise told me her plan to make her final decision. She had found a dress similar to the one from the other shop that had been her first selection; not the same but very similar. So she put the two favorites on back to back trying them both on to make a selection. Finally we asked for a veil or veils to try on with her favorite at this shop. When they placed it on her she got a rosy glow on her face, her hands flew involuntarily to her face and she burst into tears! 'I've found it! This is my wedding dress!' And with that I burst into tears and said, 'Oh honey, don't cry!' and we both were in tears. Happy tears...joyful tears. Cinderella moment! Everyone in the room was teary eyed and in agreement she was breathtaking.

Needless to say, as I was not only feeling like her Mother but Cinderella's fairy godmother by that time...no other shops were necessary. We've ordered the dress and veil and have a memory for the two of us that will be cherished for our lifetimes. I make no mention of what her wedding ensemble looks like. You do understand, I'm sure. Have no fear, we will be sharing when her big day arrives...until then many hugs and much...

Loves~Loves~Loves~

Some Day When I'm Old and Gray...

2013-09-30T13:47:00.000-04:00

Face it, I'm a romantic! I love a wonderful love story. I've had this secret tale that I've been wanting to tell, but I had to wait for it all to unfold. Our one and only daughter, Elise, met her 'once in a lifetime love' this last year. We knew they were planning on getting married. We'd even had the meeting requesting our permission and blessing on asking for Elise's hand in marriage. All parties involved...that would consist of our 'future son-in-love', my husband and date for the last forty-one years and moi, worked very, very hard to not let Elise know the most romantic day of her life was coming!

Our annual vacation at Holden Beach was planned for after Labor Day this year. With a new job, my date for the last forty one years had to accrue vacation time by working a particular sum of weeks before he acquired enough hours for vacation. Thus the late summer holiday. Sadly, this meant that our oldest son and wife and their two children, Trey and Peter were not able to join us this year. School had started and didn't allow for traveling to and from the beach. Everyone else was able to spend at least part of the week with us, basking in the lovely rays of sunshine at our favorite beach.

Probably you see where this is going...beach...boy/girl in love...engagement not yet complete. Yes! Dave, Elise's now fiance, put his plan in action at the beach. He enlisted the help of Grace's parents, Scott and Erin. If you scan back to here* you will see some of last summer's vacation and how Grace and her family had taken lovely pictures of Grace and family at sunset on the beach. Planning ahead, Dave asked Scott and Erin to take pictures while he was proposing to Elise. Only catch was Elise couldn't know what they were doing as the proposal was all a surprise. These things are never easy are they?

Erin and Scott hatched a plan, they told everyone they'd like to eat early the second evening we were at the beach. They wanted to take Grace down to the beach around sunset for her beach photos just like last year! That evening, off go the family of three, camera and baby in hand. A short while later Dave suggested to Elise they take a walk on the beach. Strolling past Erin, Scott and Grace busily taking beach pictures the young couple walk out to the water.

I must say, those of us in the house were impressed. During the day, Dave had confided to Elise's brothers what he had planned for the evening. We all had a front row seat to their magical moment. This young man has moxie as far as I'm concerned. He was thoughtful enough to propose on his love's family vacation and to do it all where we could see it unfold! The photos speak for themselves. The video is quite touching. I have you as a captive audience so you might as well see it all. This blog as I so often remind you, dear readers, is also a 'memory keeper' for my family.

And now for the video. The video is fun because you can see Erin trying to snap the photos of the proposal while trying not to intrude on the moment. I think kudos to Scott and Erin are due as they were very unobtrusive and scored in the photo/video department! I feel I need to add that Dave says the wiping of his eyes he does at the very end of the video was due to sand that had blown in his eyes...umm hmmm...

It was a very special vacation this year; memories for a lifetime...to be enjoyed when everyone is 'old and gray' and feeling that glow...of the way she looked that night.

We've had a very busy, fun and love filled summer and fall. I'll do my best to bring you up to speed soon...and share other fun memories from our Holden Beach Summer of 2013, another bathroom reno and the twins Baptism. Until then...

Hugs and
Loves~Loves~Loves~

SUPERCALIFRAGILISTICEXPEALIDOCIOUS

2013-06-20T01:19:00.000-04:00

Hard to think of another word that describes the wonderful feeling of being a grandmother...again...and for the first time...to twins! I've been invited to come for a visit now that these beautiful babies are home with their wonderful Mom and Dad. It is pure heaven. I hope you enjoy this post, because I have a feeling it may be a bit before I'm able to get another one in...

From my experience as a Mom and the immediacy of maternal love that is like no other, I'm used to the overwhelming love that comes with Motherhood. I am also quite familiar to the joys of being a Grandmother. Friends who claimed that title before me used to always say, "Oh, you just wait, there is nothing quite like it!" And right they were. But take those feelings of love and joy and happiness when you see your children with their child and when you first hold those wee little grand babies in your arms, then DOUBLE that. It just might begin to describe how wonderful this experience has been.

The proud parents took this adorable picture of Abby and George soon before they were to leave the NICU and bring them home. I just love how bundled they are...they call them 'Burrito Babies' when they have them all swaddled up! I'd say that is an apt description!

It's like they are looking at each other and saying, "Hey, where have you been"?
These two beautiful babies are just one lovely surprise after another. And they each already have their very own personalities and characteristics...

Abigail born two minutes before her brother George is large and in charge. Actually she does weigh a tad more than George, now up to six pounds even, but I have a feeling even if she weighed less she'd have no problem ruling this new family. She is a very content wee one, but don't leave her with a wet or dirty diaper for any time because she will let you know in spades she IS NOT HAVING IT! She also knows when she's had enough to eat. No persuading is going to make a difference. For all that she knows what she wants she is also a cuddle bug and smiler and well if you pardon a Gramma's unabashed pride, perfectly darling bebe.

I've been having way too much fun snaping photos with my cell phone. I can't control myself..

Once I found out what names had been given to my newest grandchildren, I ran right out and purchased a 'Beanie Baby' size Abbycadaby for our Abby. She's not much bigger than the Beanie Baby Abbycadaby...

Now for George...darling, precious, sweet as could be. He waited patiently for Abby to enter the world first, and then two minutes later we were blessed with this melt your heart the first time you lay eyes on him bebe! George is a heavy weight at almost four and a half pounds. He is mighty in his tinyness! Patient and calm he rarely raises a ruckus. I think he gets most frustrated at how long it takes us to get his little person in his diaper and clothes. I think the smaller they are the harder it is...truly! But once we have him dressed and bundled he is a very contented fellow. Sometimes as I struggle getting him into his little sleeper I can hear my Mom saying, "You were the one that always took the dolls arm out of the socket to get them dressed"! I promise you George, Sush will never do that with you!

Not wanting to leave him out of the plush toy namesake collection, I found his partner in crime...his first 'Curious George'. It might be a while before he is dragging him around...but George, do you like your new friend? Oh yes...SCORE and TOUCHDOWN!

We are learning how to double team it with twin bebes...it's quite amusing sometimes...

I am indeed a very happy Sush, All Over Again. Each grandbebe brings a joy and fulfillment to my heart that is uniquely their own. Snuggles with Abby or with

George...

I am having the time of my life. I am indeed one happy, blessed woman. What do you think George...worthy of a 'High Five'?

Oh don't you KNOW it?
Loves~Loves~Loves~

Baby Love

2013-06-10T17:33:00.002-04:00

My last post I mentioned our daughter-in-love that was expecting soon. It was much sooner than we all knew! Tuesday, June 4 Laura and our son Daniel welcomed to the world our two newest grandchildren! Abigail Elizabeth and George James. I guess those wee ones just didn't want to wait one more second to meet their wonderful parents face to face!

Laura had her weekly Dr appointment that Tuesday afternoon. While there it was discovered she had developed preeclampsia and was sent to the hospital for tests. After tests and time passed it was determined for Laura's health she needed to have the babies that night! Though tiny, they are mighty! Abby was born first and weighed 5lbs 2.1 oz and George was born two minutes later weighing in at 4 lbs 5.9oz.! Laura's hard work and diligence while pregnant with the babies payed off.

Everyone is doing well, Mom recovering from her C-section...those sweet babies go a long way to help that along. Babies are gaining weight and will be in the NICU for a bit longer. Somewhere between ten days to two weeks is the time frame the Dr's are thinking.

I hopped in my car the next afternoon they were born. I had a few things to take care of first, like getting the T-dap inoculation I had been putting off, and making sure I left the house with food in the fridge for those left behind. I'm not saying I was speeding to make my way to the hospital, but then again, I'm not saying I wasn't! Whaat??? Smokies never saw me...!

Daniel did his first turn at what is called Kangaroo Time or Skin to Skin...this was taken the morning after the babies were born! I was first told it was probably George, but that's our newest Daddy and his sweet Abby.

Laura was given the okay to see the babies and hold them for the first time the evening I arrived. What a precious and beautiful moment...

They do make a happy couple...

As they had been in the isolettes there wasn't a lot of holding time allowed. As preemies they are only allowed out of the warmth of the isolettes for a few times each day. I was blessed with the opportunity to hold Abby one day and feed her...walking on air for hours after that special moment. This photo was taken on another day. Abby's feeding tube and IV were removed! I have smallish hands so you are able to get and idea of how little these sweet babies are! When I say small hands we are not talking like that old Burger King commercial where the hands are freakishly small...hahaha! Just girly small!

The night we were leaving I was able to hold and feed George...be still my heart!

This is a picture of Pop holding George his namesake for the first time! He is in Pop heaven...that's a look I'm familiar with!

Some close ups of the precious ones without all the tubes and IV's. I'm happy to report as of this post, Abby is out of the isolette and has graduated to the baby tub/bassinet we all see in hospitals. George and Abby both are now tube free...no feeding tubes or IV's. Abby is being monitored for jaundice-she's borderline; George's levels so far are good.

This is our handsome George!

Beautiful Abby...

I had a hard time at first telling them apart, they of course are not identical but they do resemble one another. Abby's hair is just a shade darker blonde than George's flaxen hair. And their noses and chins are a bit different! Of course up close you can tell because Abby is bigger than George, but a quick glance it's hard to know! Thank goodness their other Gramma has knitted them some caps with pom pom tassels one blue and green one pink and purple. Will be very handy in the months to come!

Daniel is keeping close tabs on the twins...he looks from one to another with such tenderness...

I do believe these two will be busy bees with the two sweet bebes in their arms! Here they are having Kangaroo time two by two!

And this last picture says it all...Momma in love!

I am so blessed and happy...Momma is recovering well and now home. The babies are progressing well and may be able to move up to the next step the Progressive Level of the NICU! This is indeed a time of celebration and gratefulness and always...

Loves~Loves~Loves~
*Post update: Abby was having a hard time maintaining her body temp so for now she's back in the isolette. I am so thankful they are in the very capable hands of the NICU staff and Drs. Prayers always appreciated...

Celebrations...Let's Party and Have A Good Time

2013-06-03T14:55:00.000-04:00

Like Kool And The Gang sang in their hit song...we've had several reasons to Celebrate with our family lately.

First up...Peter had his Pre-School Graduation. Oh yes, he's moving up to the big time...Kindergarten! Now he and his older brother, Trey, will be going to the same school. I know they will have many years of fun and some great stories to share. Look out world it's my boys coming!

Happy Days ahead for our dear boy and his brother!

Not to be left out in the cold, Trey had a very special celebration of his own. Saturday he made his First Communion. It was a very special day for our first grandchild. He looked very solemn throughout the Church service. He along with several others in his class was asked to bring up the gifts. He handled it with his usual finesse. As I think it should be, there was no picture taking during the service but we were allowed to snap away once the okay was given.

To finish off the week of celebrations...our sweet granddaughter Kate turned ONE! She was enjoying the party up until it was time for birthday cake. Photo ops with all the relatives in attendance? No problemo!

Aunt Elise and Dave are loving some Kate time.

Aunt Erin and Uncle Scott looking very happy styling two babies. I'm not pushing, seriously.

I made sure to have some Katie Kate time...

Peter and Lily were very patient waiting for the time to sing Happy Birthday to Kate!

And then it was time for the birthday girl's big moment! If you watch the photo progression you can see the panic building in Kate. Laugh or cry? What do I do? She was not a fan at all of the singing of Happy Birthday; wanted no part of it! Finally she gets a glimpse of the cake placed before her. In only a few seconds she goes from full out crying jag to sugar loaded bliss!

After a little help from her Mom...a taste of things to come...Kate decides to explore the pink 'smash' cake. Didn't take long before it was her new favorite!

Life is good...all that birthday singing stuff is over, cake tasting done! Now she can get back to visiting. Happy First Birthday sweet girl!

Grace, our seasoned baby veteran on all things First Birthday, was happy to hang out and eat cupcakes. She and Kate are having an end of year performance of sorts this week at the gymnastics facility they both attend. I'm invited and looking forward to seeing the slide show!

Those were our most recent celebrations. What's next? Why Two 'birth days' are just around the corner for this sweet Daughter-In-Love...! We missed them at all the family celebrations but seriously...she is busy getting ready for her own birthday party...

Stay tuned...and
Loves~Loves~Loves~

Forever Young

2013-05-24T04:10:00.002-04:00

Once upon a time I was old as the 'S' word. No, no...the other 'S' word, sixty. Ugh. I've changed my mind...it's a woman's prerogative don't ya know? I've decided to remain...'Forever Twenty One'. It's really a pretty nice age. You can legally consume any beverage of your choosing. Voting was legalized for eighteen year olds way back when I was first close to that age. Movies of all ratings are allowed for my viewing. It was pointed out to me if I choose to remain 'Forever Twenty One' I won't be allowed to rent a car. Twenty five is the age for renting cars it seems. Isn't that what my date of the last forty one years is supposed to do? This is us when I wasn't quite yet 'Forever Twenty One' we were newlyweds, I turned that delightful and forever age about five months after this picture was taken!

Last Sunday I celebrated my 'Forever Twenty One' birthday. Again. Adult children and my darling grandchildren joined us at a neighborhood Italian restaurant. This restaurant has a separate party room. We noticed it even had an extra table we will be able to use once Daniel Son and our lovely Daughter-in-Love Laura have the twins! Daniel and Laura were the only missing members of the family, but she is busy incubating those precious babies and sooooo very close to their 'birthday', they remained home in Virginia. That's gonna be some great news!

We did have your other favorites present though...

After dinner we headed back to the old family homestead for cake and ice cream and presents. There may have been some piano playing and block building going on. Baby dolls and cars and puzzles may have taken over the floor. But you didn't hear that from me!

The piano has been discovered by Kate...

...it's like a magnet to the girls...

And then there were three!

A little rearranging...

Kate and Grace deciding if they like the new arrangement...

Kate making sure she has a captive audience...

Then some serious tunes were played...

We had a lovely fais do do...that's N'Awlins speak for a party, and soon everyone headed home.
I've decided I really do like being 'Forever Twenty One'! Happy Birthday to Me!

Loves~Loves~Loves~

Mother's Day

2013-05-11T03:05:00.000-04:00

Mom and my Birthday Boy

Mother's Day is an emotional mine field for me. I have five beautiful grown adult children I cherish. I love being their mother. I went into labor with my first born child on Mother's Day. It was all very exciting and I've always considered Mother's Day sort of 'our' day. When his birthday and Mother's Day are on the same day I still do. My grandchildren enhance all the joys of motherhood. It's not just a Hallmark day, it is a day to celebrate and hold dear those that are the reason for having Mother's Day.

This all changed for me the year my Mother passed away. I thought I was doing fine. I planned a low key family gathering...I didn't want my kids to feel they had lost both their Gramma and Momma at the same time. What I wasn't expecting was the full blown, knock me to my knees feeling I had when I turned the corner in the grocery store and landed on the card aisle. I had stayed away from all the Hallmark Stores, but completely forgot the grocery stores now have card/party aisles. It hit me in my heart that I would never again have 'my' Mom to send a card to, call on the phone, take to lunch...all the fun things we would do to celebrate 'Mom'. I left the grocery cart right there in the aisle praying I could keep the tears hidden until I was alone in the car.

My Dad died in October...four months later my Mom died. It is an understatement to say it was a very hard time in my life. They had evacuated here after hurricane Katrina flooded the Assisted Living facility where they lived in New Orleans. We weren't able to bury either of them in the cemetery in New Orleans until the month after my Mom died. The cemeteries were busy trying to repair the flood damage. So, although Mom died in March of that year, we had a memorial service for them in April. And yes...Mother's Day is May.

My son's birthday is on Mother's Day this year. I will joyously celebrate his birth and the privilege of being mother to my five children. As many of our children and grandchildren that are able to make it to a luncheon will be there. We will be happy, but tucked in my heart will be the missing piece of the day...my Mom.

I know I am not alone in having to face Mother's Day without my Mother's physical presence. For those who are facing this whether for the first or after many years, I send you my love and empathy. As a Mother myself...I know we are meant to enjoy the day; I know without a doubt my Mom would want me to celebrate the day. Still, I will keep that place in my heart and find a quiet time in the day to remember...

Loves~Loves~Loves~

Photo Dump Part II

2013-04-15T23:43:00.000-04:00

Again, life is continuing to be filled with family activity and what nots...I like what nots, don't you? I'll continue to attempt to place the pictures in some semblance of order; no guarantees.

We went up to the Washington DC area last fall to visit with our kids, Scott and Erin and our precious little Grace. My sister Patsy and her husband were heading there for a tour of the area. Allan is head of his department at the college where he works and he often takes groups of students from abroad to 'view' our nation's political world in action. Patsy wondered if we would be able to meet them and spend time together. Are you kidding me??? I jumped at the opportunity to visit both my sister and brother-in-law and our children and granddaughter in one fell swoop!

We toured George Washington's homestead, Mt Vernon. It was in October and a brisk wind was whipping up from the Potomac River. All I can say is I'm glad we have insulated homes and central heat and air! The view was fantastic, I just wonder if generations from now people will ponder how we 'survived' living in the conditions we are now 'surviving' through.

For your viewing pleasure and my family's recording of family events...first up, Mt Vernon!

We had breakfast at a restaurant owned and operated by a family friend's friend. Confusing enough? I do recommend it if you are ever in the Arlington area of DC and craving New Orleans cuisine. He's won several awards for his restaurant and I can attest to the authenticity and flavor! The name is Bayou Bakery the owner and chef is David Guas. David's beignets are fantastic, although all I have to show for you is the powdered sugar remains...!

Another evening Steve and I took the subway into DC to meet up with Patsy and Allan for dinner. We had a wonderful time reminiscing and laughing over old times and memories. All too soon it was time to head back home. Happily we knew soon Scott and Erin and Grace would be moving down to us! Goodbyes were not quite as sad as they had been...

Elise had her 25th birthday...I can't believe my baby is that 'young'! Lily and Elise had a viewing of Cinderella and of course the tiara was a required item for any Princess.

Her brothers always make her giggle...my Mom always used to call her 'Gigglepuss' and rightly so. I love the sound of Elise's laugh...

Trey and Peter hunted in pumpkin patches...

Lily, her Mom, Lisa and her other 'Grammy', Beth and I went for a 'Ladies Tea' at the Tea Shoppe. It was so much fun watching Lily try on hats and 'glubs' and beads. She had her own 'tea', pink lemonade in a pretty pink tea pot. We had delightful sandwiches and pastries and even some...wait for it...'Devon' cream!

Lily had a marvelous time adding to her tea, I think it ended up a combination of lemonade, cream, pepper and sugar, with maybe a touch of salt before we were finished!

It was the most delightful day, one I look forward to replicating again with all of the granddaughters! Truly if you have the opportunity to do this with someone young and full of fancy I highly recommend a ladies 'Tea'!

Halloween gave us the opportunity to see a Native American Indian Princess...

Trick or Treaters at our door included 'The Man' and 'Curious George' the sons of a dear friend's daughter...

Trey and Peter sent photos of their costumes as did Lily and Grace...

More photo dump to come but I'll give your eyes and bum a rest for now!
Many hugs and always,

Loves~Loves~Loves~

Photo Dump - Part I

2013-03-21T06:06:00.001-04:00

A funny thing happened on the way to the Forum...Well not really the forum, just the road of life. Remember all the way back to the beginning of last summer when I explained my desire to take a blogging break? Well I did just what I had hoped to do. I spent my days filled visiting, playing and caring for my family.

I filled you in on some of what we were doing last summer...when my old computer was still trudging along. I choose to not be redundant but you are welcome to peruse the few posts from last summer to your hearts content!

I'll do my best to 'dump' the pictures in some semblance of order but my brain doesn't always run in order these days. I am going to try to clump them together and very likely will break this up into several or at least two posts. That last one was asking quite a bit of everyone to scroll through!

First up:

Trey had started back to school:

Lily had her birthday:

Princesses are a very big part of her three year old world...

Then it was time for Trey to celebrate his birthday...EIGHT YEARS OLD! Whoa, time flies when we are having fun!

Last summer we went to the beach the week after Labor Day. The beach was less crowded but the surf and sand still full of sunshine and warmth. We even found some turtle nests hatching! It was a great time...anytime our family can gather together at Holden Beach is golden! With the beginning of school already on the books for Trey, he and his family were only able to stay for the first part of the week.

Trey and Lily celebrated their birthdays with the entire family while we were at the beach! Kate and Grace seemed enthralled with each other!

Kate loved sitting outside on the deck feeling the summer breeze!

Pop and Tim were enjoying Kate's smile and the breeze out on the deck where Tim and his family were staying.

Lily was excited to show everyone where she was staying...the Cinderella outfit was a birthday gift from Aunt Erin and Uncle Scott. I heard bribes were made to get her to change out of her princess gown!

Grace was quite the beauty on the beach...

Her Mom and Dad were post card ready...

Lots of sunbathing...

More visiting between the two houses...

More cousin photos...Kate and Grace sporting monogrammed outfits!

Lily...the ruler of the pack (of the girls)...

I had my toes in the water and yes, you know where the rest of me was...

Sun kissed dinners at the beach bar!

And it was time to pack up and head home. Tonight we are making plans for this summer's beach trip! What mischief can we come up with this year???

Loves~Loves~Loves~

The Long And Winding Road

2013-03-08T02:38:00.001-05:00

If you don't have a lot of time...don't even start this post. Your seat may be sore before this epistle ends. I have shortened this post believe it or not. I hope I haven't left anyone out I want to thank and include. If so, you are in my heart if not in blog land. I've left names out to protect the innocent...everyone is labeled by family position or title. Aunt 'B' is the only one I believe I have called by name and I don't think I've given away too much with that title. So grab a beverage, put your feet up, sit back and enjoy the drive:

It all began with a phone call: "Hi honey, I've been terminated". What the H double hockey sticks does that even mean??? I guess it's a sign of the times...my husband was...'terminated'. A term used by the company where he worked as to the downsizing that took place. Amen and praise be to God, before he left the site that day he was contacted by two other companies interested in hiring him. After considering all offers (he had more as the news spread) he chose one that has great potential...and many projects on the books.

When he called me that fateful morning with the news, I was sharing breakfast out with our daughter. I would be less than honest if I didn't admit it startled me. My daughter said my face turned white before her eyes. I should have known it would all be okay. Working in the construction industry all his adult life we have been familiar with the fickle winds of employment delivered by the economy. He always finds the silver lining. Every. Single. Time.

Fortunately for us, he was able to take some time off before starting his new position. After he got the all clear from the eye surgery, ideas and travel routes were discussed over the dinner table. We decided to travel first to Charleston, SC. Being relatively new to the 'footloose and fancy free' lifestyle, a trip 'just for us' is not something we often do. We travelled through rain and it continued to rain the entire time we were in Charleston. I'm happy to report the rain did not dampen our fun and enjoyment of that lovely charming Southern city. We arrived late...rain was still pouring so we opted to dine in the hotel restaurant. It was excellent!

We had researched online and read many reviews. The hotel we settled on was a lovely boutique hotel right smack dab in the heart of the market area. We had a view of the harbor from our window. I got a kick out of the turndown service and all the lovely decor.

Carriage rides were what we thought we would use as tour transportation.Rain and buggies don't mix. We changed from buggy to bus. It was my first time touring a city on a bus (small and cozy as it was) and I can say it really was a great way to view the city. The tour guide was really adept at mixing humor and history! We enjoyed hanging out in the swanky hotel lobby while waiting for the tour bus...

It was just all these OLD people taking the tour with me that was so disconcerting...and when I caught my reflection in the bus window it dawned on me I resembled them. Reality check! Another reality check...shopping with my husband. Have you ever heard the term, 'Shopping With Your Husband Is Like Hunting With the Game Warden'? It is. One shop and he was ready to stop. Oh honey...!

I should explain the genesis of our planned vacation was to visit my husband's elderly Aunt. She recently had to have a pace maker implanted and we wanted to visit her while we had the time and opportunity. I had the 'brilliant' idea of visiting as many of our siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and nephews, nieces and great nephew/nieces and loved ones as we could along our way. For those of you who have been my reading companions you are aware how much I've missed my family and yearned to visit with them all.
Carpe Diem, y'all!

With a lot of family and territory to cover we knew we were going to be having short but sweet stops along the way! My Mom always told us 'guests are like fish and start to smell after three days...never over stay your welcome'. We were able to abide by that rule! We departed from Charleston and headed towards Hattiesburg, MS. We tried not to drive too long any one day. Always in the past when we drove somewhere we had a car full of kids and were hell bent on getting to our destination as quickly as possible. Anyone that has ever driven in a car full of children for more than 15 minutes knows from whence I speak.

We spent a lovely afternoon and overnight visit with my sister, brother in law and niece. These are the two members of my family that love love love Mardi Gras. They parade, actually ride on floats and throw beads and in the case of one of the Krewes...shoes! Mardi Gras was just over and they were really bravehearts to have guests the day after.

Hattiesburg had recently been struck by a tornado. Blessedly my sister's home was not in the path of the destruction, but my brother-in-law is head of his department at the university and just one block down the road from his department's building the campus was hit by that horrible storm. It is really chilling to see what can happen by the forces of nature.

My sister and her husband are in the middle of remodeling their home so it was fun to see all they are doing and have done! Pictures just don't convey how lovely things actually are! Pasta and Pesto on Ash Wednesday was a delicious repast. Time flies whenever I'm with my sisters...I wish it could have gone on forever!

We woke up and headed towards home. New Orleans. We spent two lovely days in our home town. A very special part of that visit was an hour or two spent driving by places and spaces in New Orleans that had childhood memories and hold our heart.

The next two photographs are for our kids. Our sons were born in the house that used to stand on that lot. The actual house was torn down...it was quite a surprise to see a new house in its place!

The next two photos are, in order of appearance, my Grandmother's home, remodeled somewhat since she lived there and my childhood home, remodeled after Katrina.

Sorry for the glare, I was doing my best shooting into the afternoon sun and using the iPhone and riding in a moving car!

The first day in New Orleans was spent visiting my sister that still lives there and a dear family friend, the lovely lady that helped raise me and my siblings. We picked them up, one from her home, my sister from her work and headed out for lunch. I had a yearning for some Drago's charbroiled oysters and was not disappointed.

My younger sister...the Thing Two to my Thing One!

Alberta and I...can you tell I was trying to do the one armed iPhone camera photo shot?

After saying goodbye to our dear luncheon companions we spent the afternoon visiting the first of three great aunts on my husband's side. This aunt was married to his Dad's brother. It was great to see her, she was feeling much better than the last time we had been together. As that day was drawing to an end we travelled across the New Orleans Causeway and stayed in Covington, La. My husband's sister lives in Covington. She purchased the home and land in Covington where his family spent summers and weekends when he was a child. We had a fun filled night with her and her beau!

The next morning a drive back across the causeway to New Orleans. We spent some time visiting my husband's relatives. We picked up my husband's aunt and met another aunt and uncle for lunch. One of his cousins was able to join us. Life in New Orleans most often revolves around its delicious food!

After lunch we brought our Aunt B back to the Assisted Living facility where she resides. It could have been a very tearful goodbye but bingo was getting ready to start. We rolled her in her wheelchair right up to a table, purchased her bingo cards and gave her the extra fifty cents for the blackout game. Yes, we sure are high rollers! We were able to hold back the tears from saying goodbye until we headed out the door.

My husband's oldest brother invited all the metropolitan (and beyond) N'awlins family over for a dinner of boiled crabs, crawfish and fried oysters! We saw sisters, brothers, and nephews and nieces...and met great nieces and great nephews, some never seen before. To say it was wonderful doesn't begin to describe our visit! Chaotic at times a houseful of relatives of all ages and stages is never quiet! It was fun and crazy and just what we wanted! Our N'awlins visit was lovely from start to finish.

The calm before the arrival of all the relatives! Just Yertle the Turtle for company!

The Chef at the stove...frying up some delicious Louisiana oysters!

And my two sisters-in-law...

Steve and his siblings

If you look close at the pictures below you might detect a skillfully home made 'crawfish table'. It has a hole in the center and sits over a trash can. When you are finished peeling crawfish, crabs, etc...push all the debris in the lined trash can and viola! All gone!

It was hard saying good bye to this fun filled bunch but we had a lot of road left to cover!

Next stop, Houston, Texas. We have sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews that live in Houston. It is a HUGE, Texas size city. I was amazed at the size and sprawl of the place! My baby sister that hates to be called a baby lives in Houston. Initially we were going to miss seeing each other by ONE day. God stepped in and said, "Not this time"; her plans had changed and we were able to spend way too little, but oh so precious time with my sweet and funny sister and my surfer dude brother-in-law. As excited as I was to see them I forgot to pull out my phone for pictures! So happy was I to visit that I was late in leaving. I'll use a previously taken picture of my sister floating in her pool so you get the idea. I'm planning on going back and using that empty float!

One of our nieces recently built a new home in Houston and she had all of my husband's side of the family over to her stunningly beautiful home for a get together. Her chef of a husband hosted us with a crawfish boil...HEAVEN!

We were able to finally meet our niece's fiancee! We are making plans for the upcoming nuptials and another trip to Houston.

And, we were able to visit great nieces, some we've never been able to see in person. It was so HARD not to be that old great Aunt that squishes cheeks and kisses them to pieces. Those girls are too adorable for words.

As thrilling as it was to see all the new babies, I told my husband that what really made my heart sing along the entire trip was seeing 'our' babies. The nieces and nephews we knew as babies...now some of them grown with babies of their own; all of them growing into delightful adults with dreams they are making come true!

Sisters...they hold our hearts!

My brother-in-law with his future son-in-law!

And then we had a great laugh watching the round up that was required for a group picture!

Our niece that hosted the party is arranging the kidlets. Her older sister is waiting to corral them once they get close enough!

Success!!!

My husband's baby brother...( had to tie all the baby siblings together) and his beautiful wife hosted us in Houston. After the crawfish boil and family bash we headed over to their home. It was freezing cold that night but nothing would have it but my husband and his brother sat in the hot tub and chatted about old times. My husband enjoyed that sooo much and I hope his brother didn't turn into an ice cube! I opted for a warm shower and bed.

We enjoyed a delicious breakfast made by our sister-in-law...how did she manage to get up so early and create a fantastic spread after partying at the crawfish boil?

Then once again, we loaded up and headed on down the road, this time to Dallas, Texas. My only brother, the baby boy...heck the only boy of our family has lived there since he graduated from law school 25 years or so ago. I am sad to admit it was the first time I've ever seen his home in Dallas. My brother is the one that travels to family and to us. I was so excited to finally be able to put his life seen previously only in pictures into actuality. And now the Dallas skyline!

We spent the afternoon visiting with my niece and nephew and their parents. It was fun to see them in their own setting, listening to all they are doing as juniors in high school. They filled us in on plans for visiting colleges and universities over spring break. One parent going in one direction with one and the other parent going with the other in another direction to do the 'college tour'!

Later that evening we went to my brother's corner office at the law firm where he works in downtown Dallas. We were entertained by the lights coming on as dusk turned to night and the city starting to come alive! I couldn't help but be reminded of my Dad as my brother told us the stories behind some of the buildings and the history of the city. My Dad loved to share the history and tales of New Orleans, and it made my heart happy to see my brother follow in his footsteps. We left his office and had a great Tex-Mex dinner...delicious and so much fun just to be with family!

Mid morning the next day it was time for another goodbye. My brother and his wife had entertained us and given us a snapshot of their lives. We left for our last but definitely not least stop...Little Rock, AR.

Wow, we are getting a little travel wearied...are you? We arrived at my sister and her husband's house just ahead of a big thunder storm! I was so relieved we were NOT driving as we listened to the boom and flash and crash going on outside. It was a relief to watch the rain falling outdoors on their patio while we shared yummy hors d'oeuvres and beverages indoors. The first born of the family, separated only by three years, she still likes to think she is 'THE BOSS'! Don't tell her, but we all think she is too!

After resting a bit we loaded up in their car and ate a delicious dinner at a nearby Greek restaurant housed in an office building. The building also is where my sister works, and the staff was so very nice and attentive. The rest of the evening was spent looking through albums and sharing fun family history and memories.

A lazy morning the next day before we were treated to a lovely lunch at the country club. As a past president, my brother-in-law was able to give us an insiders tour of the facility. It is a beautiful place, we last were there when our oldest son was three. My husband and brother-in-law played a memorable round of golf that visit, one Steve still likes to retell, often. And again. The last time I had been in Little Rock was when our baby girl was two...23 years ago??? Yikes! Anyhoo...we said tearful goodbyes and started the long and winding road back home.

We came away from our 'Grande Tour' with a happy heart. So glad we had made the effort and timed it when we did. We logged over 3,000 miles along our journey of ten days. The next week saw snow and rain and storms all along the route we had travelled. It was our vacation but I do believe one protected by The Lord. Thank you to all our family and friends. WE love you all, we miss you so so much but can now picture you in spaces and places we either haven't seen in years or never beheld before.

Loves~Loves~Loves

Perfect Timing

2013-02-08T04:49:00.000-05:00

Good thing we got the bedroom and bath finished when we did. My date for the last 41 plus years had to have eye surgery a week ago. The Dr found more than what he bargained for (Dr and patient) and ended up having to put an air bubble in my love's eye to help it heal correctly. What this does is make the patient have to lie down on the opposite side of the surgery. The Dr related it to a carpenter's level, you must keep the bubble floating over the eye to help it act like a bandaid. THREE days of lying 45 minutes on his side, FLAT...no pillow and 15 minutes to get up and stretch and take care of 'necessities'.

Whew...for a man that never sits still it was a looonggg three days, for his wife it was a verrrry long three days. I hate when it's my honey that has to have surgery. I worry more than if it was myself. I'm always relieved when the Dr returns with a smile. My heart starts beating again, or so it always seems.

It was a blessing that we were able to do the surgery when we did. My guy is in between jobs right now. He starts working for a new company in a few weeks, so we were able to take advantage of the break for his medical repairs. He made the rounds of Dr's and is now on the mend and has a clean bill of health. Amen and thank you to the Lord for all our blessings.

We also are hoping to do some traveling in the not to distant future. Road trips abound. We hope to head on down to Charleston and then across the deep South to visit family. I'll fill you in when it's all a lovely memory!

I had planned to be catching up with all we had done previously while my computer was brain dead. Instead I had another break taking care of the wonderful man I married. Life has a funny way of rearranging our schedule. I think that's just the way...I'm sure you all find it the same.

Hugs and
Loves~Loves~Loves~

It's So Nice To Come Home To

2013-01-26T03:59:00.002-05:00

Let me preface this post with this: for 24 years we lived very well with the avocado green master shower...tiny as it was, ugly green as it was, we were content. That we turned the shower stall into a storage unit when the drain started leaking water into the family room was of no major consequence, simply a temporary solution that lasted for perhaps at least a decade.

Really, that is the truth. Raising five children that we needed to feed, educate and entertain, a classy, sassy and spiffy master bathroom was just not high on the list of wants or even needs. To some it may not ring true, but really we just were too busy having fun to worry about or with a new bathroom.

Speed forward to 3 years ago when we had the famous deluge from tropical storm Ida, that sent water cascading down the wall of our master bedroom and continued descending to the downstairs family room walls and fireplace. That was somewhat documented here. With the help of Service Masters the damage was hauled away. Repairs to the walls of the bedroom and family room were made by my handy dandy personal Jack of All Tradesman husband and our lovely children. The bedroom wall was repaired, but the room basically remained the same. As for the avocado green bathroom...we still were in no rush to spiff it up. We did however, renovate the family room. The fireplace was refaced and built-ins installed. Those of you who have been following our family story may remember we've had a few grandchildren and weddings during that time. Priorities!

Then lo and behold our lovely daughter graduated from college with a degree in Architecture Design and was hired by the very same firm she had interned for. A well respected kitchen and bath design firm. Our lovely daughter was itching to turn the avocado green behemoth into a lovely retreat. We put our heads together and came up with what is now our dreamy new en suite retreat. Elise drew up the plans, and sketched the design. Elise was my contractor. She contacted the tile company and basically ordered everything. The tile installation company came with her recommendation. She designed the cabinets and ordered them. The carpenter was one that works with the company Elise works for. I was the check writer. The plumber was via Elise; she brought me to the quarry where I selected the marble for the counter tops. Fun Field Trip for the mother and daughter!

Our son Scott is not an electrician by profession, nor my husband. Put the two together and you have a wonder duo of electrical geniuses. Scott drove down from D.C. where he was residing at the time. He and my husband rewired all the lighting and heating in the bathroom. They were up in the attic crawling across beams and fishing wire down walls. Genius and athletic!

Our oldest son, Steve, spent the good portion of a day demolishing the vanities in the master bath. He was wielding that sledge hammer like Thor! I think a lot of pent up frustration must have been released that day!

Daniel drove down from Virginia with his truck, after breaking out the avocado green tile he helped haul the demo materials to the dump. He and my husband spent an afternoon removing debris from the upstairs and removing all the extraneous 'junque'!

Tim, is the family's very own resident master plumber...not by profession. Later, you will see him installing some fancy equipment he sells. No torch required to weld pipes. Really Cool stuff, literally. He made sure all the plumbing was ready before the tile setting was done. The installation of new hook ups were left to a licensed plumber.

The children all have gravitated to one or more areas of expertise after years of helping their Dad with home renovations. My husband has been in the construction field in one capacity or another all his adult life. He started as a carpenter's helper in high school and graduated from LSU with a degree in Construction Engineering. Highly talented and qualified if I do say so myself!

I will try and put the pictures in some kind of order so they make a normal progression of the remodel. I really am way beyond tickled with how it all came out. The master bedroom is how I imagined it...a calm and relaxing retreat...a touch of chinoiserie ( I adore cobalt blue) and simplicity in our surroundings. The en suite (yes, I watch a lot of HGTV) and with the remodel it deserves a new title...is beyond what I imagined. I think it has a sort of old world European feel to it, with some contemporary touches to give it some pizazz!

I wish to once again express my gratitude to my family for making a dream come true. Thank you my children, those by birth and those by marriage. Once again, my daughters-in-love, with busy lives of their own, shared their husbands time and talents to help us move along in the renovation. To the love of my life, thank you for all the changes and trips to return items and travel to High Point for furniture shopping. You are the sunshine of my life.

I love you one and all!

So to make a long post longer...enjoy the photo montage~

First we had to repair the walls upstairs

And the walls in the family room downstairs

The family room had built in cabinets added and an overhaul of the fireplace

Ta-Daa!

My husband installed crown molding and removed the old yucky carpet and painted the walls for the first go round. OH YES I DID...a woman's got a right to change her mind!

And then the walls were repainted. The yellow was lovely in daylight, but at night it was all...WHOA, all Burning Ball of YELLOW!!! With a great deal of frustration but aiming to please we and it was we repainted the room.

The master bedroom closet had built- ins installed by my favorite live in master carpenter! (Notice the wall is now a lovely shade of grey called French Silver. My French heritage must have been calling~

Remnants of avocado green in the water closet area...French Silver is gaining!

While we were putting in new faucets etc in the master bath we decided to upgrade the shower faucets etc in the bathroom on the other side of the shower wall. Son Tim was our handy dandy go to man for the job. Peter and Trey were loving the peephole to watch Uncle Tim while working...

Hey, where'd he go?

Boxes of cabinets arrived for the vanity area...

The day of the install I put on my nurse's hat as the installer had a serious accident. Not a story for the squeamish. Glad daughter that faints at the sight of blood was not around. Moving on...

Progress! His...

And Hers

Hers~

And His~

Enlarged shower is turning into something special~

A bench seat is created...

That all important nook for shampoo, cream rinse and other shower goodies!

Now we're talking~

Frameless glass door~

Funny story about the shower head. After watching HGTV way more often than normal people probably do, I learned that it is better to raise the shower head higher than what we had them in the '50's, '60's, 70's, etc. This shower head would make Shaquille O'Neil happy. I, on the other hand need a stool to use the different settings on the shower head. Perhaps I should have rethought that idea. Hope a very tall family buys the house when we ever sell it.

So now I have a Cinderella shower...really! Lily calls it the Princess shower! So to complete the fairy tale...

Every Princess needs her sparkling crown...

Mirrors and lighting...

Marble floor makes the bathroom complete from tip to toe!

The bedroom is the serene retreat I was hoping for.

So there you have it! A French Silver and marble retreat! Looks pretty good...n'est-ce pas?

With much toil and many hours of hard labor, the eye of a great designer, we are back in our own room.

As the saying goes, "Ain't nobody happy if Mama ain't happy."

Mama's happy~

Greetings and Salutations

2013-01-12T22:47:00.000-05:00

Hello dear friends and gentle readers! Wow, I have been missing all of you for a while and I'm so thrilled I am now able to return to the world of blogging. I've been able to peer at some blogs on the teensy iPhone screen now and then but this is a return to Paradise!

I haven't been idle while away, but the news I have to share is not my own. It's TWICE as exciting than anything I have been doing while off the blogging boards...
This happy couple...

Laura and Daniel...are having their first child(ren)! Yep, double trouble; they are having twins! Grandbabies six and seven are due in June of this year! Am I grinning from ear to ear? Well, don't you just know it! They are fraternal twins, not identical, and we don't know if they are boy/boy or girl/girl or combo! Luckily the parents to be have had a lot of practice in the baby department with the arrival of Grace and Kate.

To quote a favorite of ours that lives across the pond...'EEEKKK'!

More exciting news do you ask? Ooooo, but of course! Erin and Scott moved to the same town as Sush and Pop! Yes, it's true...Grace and her Mom and Dad have relocated and are just a hop, skip and a jump away! How much fun?!

We are thrilled and I would say this is a real 'Sweetheart' of a deal!

Let's see if I can borrow some of the grandkids to put this story all together...

For the moment the girls are in the lead in the grandchildren department...Lily thinks this state of affairs is...

And something to really cheer about...

Trey and Peter are not worried, they know the vote is still out and they could pull the boys in the lead if the new cousins turn out to be boys. For now they are all smiles...

I was going to tell you what Kate thinks of the situation, but she silenced me before I got the chance...(oh and yep, I got rid of my blonde hair after all those years).

For Grace it's a real nail biter of a situation...

That pretty much sums up our exciting news! I know I promised to show off the renovations of the master bedroom/bath. I will, but really NO thing can compete with the loveliness of new grand babies on the horizon and the ones already here.

I'd like to promise the renovation will be the next posting up, but with this crazy group and all the fun they bring to my life, there's no guarantee!

And to think it all started with the best of the best, my shy and retiring kidlets!

Blessings everyone and a special thank you to my fantastic Husband...my date for the last forty plus years for gifting me with a brand new Macbook Pro so I can rejoin all my dear and fantastic friends. I may or may not have sweetened the pot so to speak when I gave him his Kindle for Christmas...

But...Mac trumps Kindle...in my book! Oh wow that was corny! I better leave before you all run away!

In the words of the late George Burns..."Say goodnight, Gracie..."

Loves~Loves~Loves~

Almost Back

2012-11-10T01:42:00.000-05:00

So we have 'almost' completed our master bedroom/bath renovation! Life is good! I hope to have my new laptop soon and be joining all my friends in Blogland. I miss knowing what is happening with you all and think of you often. I am writing this on my iPhone, so please excuse any typos or weird auto correcting that may appear.

Hope life has been good to you all and I look forward to catching up with you all soon!

Loves~Loves~Loves

When The Genius Says You're Done

2012-10-05T23:39:00.000-04:00

Hi Family and Friends,
I'm here for a quick update...my trusty companion of 7 years bit the dust a few weeks ago. that would be my MacBook. You never realize how much you depend on your computers until they are really, REALLY gone!

Thanks to 'This Is Me', I was able to put the word out via her post on her blog. Thank you again dear friend for coming to the rescue. However we are diverse in our followers and I wanted to let you ALL know I haven't abandoned you, just waiting for some dust to settle, literally. Isn't it always the case...Murphy's Law, etc.? We are getting very close to the completion of our remodeling in the master bedroom and en suite. We have sawdust and soon marble dust flying fast and furious. So I'm a tad preoccupied and busy with that project.

Short story long, I miss you all, try and squint at your blogs via my iPhone when my eyes and time permits. Trying to comment gets pretty tricky between those tiny keys and 'Auto Correct'! My son is in town for the weekend to help move the reno along and offered up his iPad for me to use. So that's that and I will return in the hopefully not too distant future.

Everyone know I am thinking of you and care about you and those in your lives. Hope to see you soon and much

Loves~Loves~Loves

It's Not That I Haven't Tried

2012-08-04T04:01:00.000-04:00

Hi...remember me? I'm the one that used to be crashing into your blog rolls, leaving pithy and always remarkable comments. Bwhahahaha! Actually I do crash your blogs and am still doing that as often as time permits. Commenting on the other hand is rare. I love catching up on all of you and hearing what is cookin' in the summer sun for everyone! But for now...I'm still enjoying the sun and family and sum summ summer time!

We've had visits from some of the grown kids as they have travelled to and fro. When they come it makes for a good excuse to get as much of the family together that life permits. Grace and her Mom and Dad passed through on their way to their Hilton Head vacation with her Mom's side of the family. So...yep yep, we had cousin reunion along with sibling fun, which by default equals much fun for Sush! Moi! Me myself!

Please pardon the many many pictures, but this is first and foremost a documentary of our lives. My family. So if you feel the need to do a fast scroll it's fine by me. These will also be mostly repetitive viewing for my blog friends from FB so those who are in that circle it's ok to breeze by. But one day I am certain I will be glad and I think my children and grandchildren will be as well that I've saved these moments for posterity. After all, don't you have some family pictures where you have NO IDEA who, what, where and when? Ahh I'm sure you do!

Trey and Peter were themselves having beach time so weren't able to make it. Lisa was a champion and brought Lily and Kate for a visit, even though Tim was on the road. I leave you with some pictures of the silliness and fun little ones can have. Oh, and yes I will have my own fun with commentary along the way!

First up we had fun introducing Kate and Grace! I often wonder what is going through their sweet little minds as we adults pose them and position them and seemingly abandon them for our photographs....

Lily, never to be left out of the fun and always the protective sister and cousin was quick to want her chance for baby/cousin holding! Watch the progression of pictures, it turns out Grace became fascinated with Lily's hair! She was verrrry patient but was needing some help before we were finished!

Then we put Kate in the mix...and Lily's baby doll was tossed for the real thing if you look closely as we progress!

So far so good...

Kate's getting a tad bored...

And then Grace gets intrigued...

Uhh, a little help here???

What a patient Lily! Whew!

Uncle Scott gets to hold Kate for the first time! An Uncle in love...Kate's smiling too!

And then Lily found Grace's sunglasses Aunt Erin had packed for the beach!

Quite the fashionista! Not to worry...Grace has an extra pair!

But I think Grace was definitely NOT sure what to make of this next situation! In the words of our dear friend, This Is Me, from 'Southham'sDarling'...Eeek!

I love the whimsy of Lily...a contrast in tutus and tools! She has so many layers...

If you would, please, notice the adorable shoes Lily is wearing. Our bloggie friend from The Giggle Fest...Lynne, her beautiful and talented daughter, Holly, decorated the shoes. I was fortunate enough last summer to win them! They are the first thing Lily puts on when she comes over...along with her tutu!

It was time for Grace's dinner and Lily jumped right in! The first thing she said when she climbed up next to Grace was, "Now Grace...you are supposed to listen to me"! Can't you hear this refrain throughout their life together? As my older sister likes to say...bossy big sister!

A tutorial from Uncle Scott on feeding his little Grace...

And an older cousin becomes a pro. Lily was wonderful at feeding Grace! She even remembered to remove her 'glub' first! I see many hours of her helping Mom with Kate!

The evening wrapped up pretty swiftly after this. Little ones have a 'witching' hour and it was rapidly approaching. Baths were given, babies tucked in car seats or cribs. We were all looking forward to the next reunion....

I did receive some really cute pictures of Grace and her family from their beach vacation...oh now you'll just have to come back for that lovely summer time bit of fun!

Loves~Loves~Loves~

On The Road Again

2012-07-18T17:51:00.000-04:00

I have been doing my best to live up to my desire to spend more time off line and with family. Summer and sunshine...they bring out the best of me and all the things I'd like to do. So this was tops on my list:

Making hay while the sun shines, we've been visiting our young marrieds that live out of state. Luckily, though they don't live in the same town they do live in the same state! It makes for a simple route and we are able to get in visits with two families on the same trip!

At Daniel Son's and Laura's lovely home, Pop was busy with his trusty tool box and working on a punch list. His master carpenter skills and I use that term a tad loosely, he's had many years of honey do's...kept he and Dan busy.

Hi dear, yes it's me again with my trusty camera...we all have our talents now don't we?

Laura and I had our own punch list and it was cleared at the local mall...a new mirror. Now which one???

Yes! That's the ticket! With the help of a very kind store employee we loaded it up in the back of Daniel's pick up and returned to add to Pop's punch list! Thanks, Pop...you're the best!

Laura and I and Zeus and Zoey were buys enjoying the chill of the air conditioner...

Things were starting to heat up outside! That's the fire pit Daniel Son built!

Time to load up the car and head on up the road! A few hours later and we arrived to see how much our sweet and beautiful Grace has grown! Her Mom and Dad are looking pretty much the same, but Grace is changing before our eyes! Sitting up all by herself...giving Sush the razzberry! Yep, new skill set every day!

Now Grace likes to use her two fingers for comfort instead of a thumb. I will admit I did that as well when I was young. Not the same two fingers but two were better than one! Smart girl, our Grace!

Scott and Pop were busy on projects but I was rather distracted with my sweet girl. It seems my photos at their home centered around Grace...not a project.

Instead of 'Foggy Bottom' we were visiting 'Crabby Bottom'! I know I have a plethora of photos but hey, I'm a Gramma!

Grace loves the fresh air and sunshine! Erin's a wonderful Mom and Grace's smile pretty much says it all!

I'm afraid the only sign of all of Pop's hard work at Grace's house is this photo of a worn out Pop!

Not to leave anyone thinking I wasn't doing my 'part' on this leg of our trip...Erin, Grace and I did go out shopping. We all have our talents...!!! Here's Grace waiting for us to get our act together for shopping!

So once we accomplished all that we could squeeze into our visit, we loaded up the car and headed back down the road. Home Again, Home Again, Jiggity Jig!

Loves~Loves~Loves~

The Boys of Summer

2012-07-10T02:04:00.001-04:00

I don't want anyone getting the idea my two favorite boys are sitting in the corner idle. The next weekend after Kate was born...the afternoon of Uncle Tim's birthday party Trey and Peter went to their favorite baseball park. The Durham Bull's Athletic Park, better known as the D-BAP! It's where we went last year around the Fourth of July with my two boys of summer! Baseball and little boys, now that's a new concept! We were invited to join them on this outing, but the impending arrival of baby Kate kept me from making commitments ahead of time!

Their Dad, knowing how much I love seeing them enjoy themselves, sent me some pictures. Trey's team had won the league championship. They were rewarded by being able to run out on the field during a break in the game with the 'real' baseball players on the Durham Bulls! I hear Trey was very busy chatting up the players! I wish I had been able to accompany them, but I'm sure glad I was sent the pictures...Enjoy!

And Peter was thrilled to be a part of the entire outing!

I love Summertime...I love my boys!
Hope your summer is sizzling in just the right way!

Loves~Loves~Loves~