They're not good, they're grrrrrreat!

I'm talking about the kids grades! They finished the school year off with some incredible accomplishments; so good, that I had to share, brag, and blog. Brianna: got all A's in every subject. Most subjects were A+! She made the honor roll. She also got the very coveted Principal's Award. With this award, the teacher chooses one boy and one girl that stand out above all others in the class. Brianna was chosen. The teacher also has to write a blurb about that student and why they were chosen. Here is what he wrote about her: Once in a rare while a student comes along that embodies the word 'scholar'. Brianna is that student. She is an outstanding reader. Her mathematical ability is top notch, Brianna's understanding of social studies and science is excellent. In spite of all this, what makes this young person so special is the quality of her character. Brianna has the maturity and self understanding to do what is right. She defines the term "moral compass." You are a tremendous person, Brianna. Elizabeth: She got 7 A's and 1 B! This kid got the outstanding reading award! Emily: She also got 7 A's and 1 B! She got an award for Stellar Speaker. My observation about her...she loves the public attention and all eyes on her!

Belated Memorial Day!

I've just recently found some time to edit our Memorial Day pics and I wanted to share. Daddy worked this day so I took the kids to the Riverside National Cemetery where they put on a little shindig each year. My maternal grandparents are buried here and so I feel it's even more important to share our need for patriotism and the importance of honoring those who have served and given up the ultimate price, with my children.

How thankful we are for those soldiers, for our freedom, and blessed we are to be part of this amazing country!

God Bless the USA!

Ditch Day

Last Friday, mommy and daddy were *cool* parents and let the girls ditch school so that we can go to the beach to hang out with this cousin...

and his parents too...

We got some great pics like this one...

This lil one enjoyed herself so much...but was curious as to why the waves won't stop coming...

Mimi-- enjoying the view

The girls had fun jumping over waves

Elizabeth and Brianna got brave and started RIDING the waves

I LOVE this pic of them. These 2 get a long soooo well.

And guess who's first time it was to EVER see the ocean! He had fun eating the sand and had absolutely no fear when it came to the water and the waves.

Ben is under the blankie taking a nap in mommy's arms.

Megan-- making friends with strangers. She's too trusting! This lady here told me that I should go for baby # 7! Haha! (Don't worry, dad. I won't.) Brianna put her book down long enough to join the kids in the water. What a shocker!

Flashback Friday

Joseph, Myself, and our cousin Mimi- Hallloween 1984. Once again, I'm trying to be 'cool' like my older cousins and brother.

Brianna Starts Quilting

Here it is, Brianna (and mommy's) first quilt!!! Brianna made it in 2 days while she was off track last month. She surprised one of her old teachers from 3rd grade with it. This teacher is expecting her first baby. What a priceless gift to treasure for her. It's clear she has had an impact in this child's life. Thank God for good teachers, we should show our appreciation to them more often.

Finally Done!!!

No more pencils, no more books, no more teacher's dirty looks!!!

Mommy graduated with her bachelor's!

Our Family is Growing, AGAIN!!!!

Or an alternate title: We Adopted!!!! A few weeks ago we set off to the nearby newly renovated animal shelter, "just to look" of course. But, then we found the little critter area. And before we knew it we were signing adoption papers. Yup, just like that! Here we are waiting patiently and on our best behavior for mom and dad to inquire about our new little friend.

Emily is holding up our certificate of adoption! He cost us a whole $5!

Matthew is just a little excited!

And just like that our family grew. Here's our newest addition.

He still doesn't have a name, we just call him 'Turtle'. Any suggestions? The kids are enjoying him and he's enjoying the yard. Sometimes he disappears for days, possibly hiding from Ewok. Ewok still hasn't figured out just what exactly he is. He likes to walk around with him in his mouth and move him from spot to spot.

Sorry for the teaser :) I had you there for a second, didn't I??? Hehe

Now that's HOT!

There's nothing hotter than a babywearing daddy! Thanks to my bestest friend for taking this pic while at the park. Wish I coulda been there. Gosh, I love a man who can wear a baby and look HOT while doing it! -- Daddy, you wear him well. That baby ain't bad lookn either (he must take after his mama's side) Not sure which man I like more :)