He is RISEN: Easter 2023

 A Lenten season full of sacrifice. The kids & I focusing on how to lift each other up; how to create positivity and clarity. I’d say we faired well for the majority of the time. It’s never meant to be easy. Sacrifices never are.

Easter hit differently this year. A First Communion on the horizon to follow made masses more intentional; more intimate. Listening to my children sing Alleluia. Watching them bow reverently. Hearing them pray at night in the darkness. Tasting the body & blood of Christ. 

Rejoicing in the end...He is RISEN!

Skiing into Keystone: Spring Break 2023

Headed out west for a little time on the slopes for Spring Break. Traveled with our friends~ 4 adults, 7 kids, 1 house, lots of adult beverages at night. A few tears, countless threats for behavior, 2 fabulous spa days, and 1 adults only dinner. Forever memories made. 

 

Brighton Kevin: 7 1/2 Years Old

Dearest Brighton Kevin,

You are growing up before my very eyes! You are truly growing taller and stronger; it is crazy to look back at recent pictures and see you transform from an older toddler into a try big boy. You are so wise and very aware of many things making you appear much more mature than the average first grader.

You are excelling at your AR Reading, rapidly increasing your book level day by day. You continue to flourish academically. You also have been working hard to keep your daily dojos by being less chatty during class time ;) Ms. Chaput is very proud of you for that leadership!

                                                  

You are rocking and rolling with your Javanon soccer team. You enjoy it so much~ practicing, passing, scoring, defending, and simply being with your teammates. Your skills have improved immensely over the last few months and it is showing. 

                                               

Speaking of soccer, you rapid up your first Futsal season with a big tournament appearance. Despite breaking a fall with your face (which resulted in a huge black eye), you scored two big goals and competed well to help your team! 

                                                

You have taken a new leadership role at golf as well~ being the older kid in small group, showing them the ropes. Coach Josh has been taking you out on the course where you've been birding several holes! You attitude and positivity are truly starting to shine through. I am so proud of you for continuing to work hard!

                                                

You are still as sweet as can be, giving me hugs daily and always wanting a goodnight kiss. Your snuggles are sincere and just make my heart light up. You are a very bright and caring young man. I cannot wait to see what life holds for you BK.

I love you!

Love,

Mommy

Adelaide Jane: 10 1/2 Years Old

 Dearest Adelaide Jane,

My big girl, you are turning into a tween right before my eyes. Having a few "real" crushes, asking questions about things I am not ready to answer, and showing signs of womanhood. I blinked and you are a decade & some. How I wish I could turn back time to when you were a baby just eating cake pops in the Target cart.

You are working very hard in 4th grade; switching classes and having 3 teachers for two subjects. Juggling the load of homework, quizzes, projects & tests plus being an athlete. You handle it well most days and have made great grades so far. 

You are still navigating the waters of friendship, finding your niche and way. You like to befriend those that are around you; you don't really know a stranger. You are able to roll with the punches, simply going from day to day with what appears to be ease.

You are continuing to work hard this gymnastics season. Competition season is well underway and you continue to push through some trying times. Severs has flared up; but your diligence to do your daily stretches, ice, and listen to your body have been helpful. I know this season has had some personal ups & down, but I am truly proud of you for persevering.

                                                    

I hope that you always smile, see the good in others, and remember that your value comes from within. I want you to remember that life is a journey, and if you're lucky enough to be on it long enough, every situation can be a life lesson. My hope is that you never allow anger or negativity to bring you down. That you RISE UP every chance you get.

I love you!

Love,

Mommy

40 Before 40: Buy a Rolex

"Jewelry is like the perfect spice; it compliments what is already there." ~Diane Von Furstenberg

What is more complimentary than a Rolex, purchased as a gift to create a timeless look in a world where time is our most precious gift. How blessed I am to have been given such a gift.