Summer Lakeside

Once summer break officially began, this is where you could find us....lakeside.  Or as I like to call it, My Happy Place!

 I failed to document the last day of school.  It was such a bizarre one, I was just happy to see it end and welcome days at the lake with sunshine and friends.  That being said, all three kids survived.  Some thrived more than others.  But I can confidently say, we are all looking forward to a possibly normal school year in the Fall.

Until then, we are doing our best to squeeze in as much lake time as  possible before the kiddos head off to camp for two weeks mid June.

So far, we aren't doing too bad.

Cheers to you summer!  I am so happy you have arrived!

Hip Hop Dancer

Just call May...Lucy Month.  We went from a Holy white dress to a hip hoppin' dancer all within the course of a couple weeks.

Although, Lucy is the gymnast and Maggie is actually the dancer, we played a bit of switch-a-roo.  Lucy thought it would be fun to try just one dance class this year.  She had a blast, but it confirmed that gymnastics is her first love.

And my dear Maggie, who I should be showcasing a dance recital post for, opted out of the performance this year.  She did attend two classes during the school year and still loves dance, but I can't explain the mind of an 11 year old.  Have I mentioned that 11 is the new 13 {at least at my house}.

So all that being said, the show must go on.  Maggie took a seat right next to me in the theatre, never looked back on her decision, and cheered her little sister on through the entire performance.

Nothing brings me more joy than watching my little ones shine.  Thanks for bringing some rocking sunshine to the day Lucy! You were AMAZING up there!  And I'm not just saying that because I'm your mom.  Girl you have moves!

First Communion For My Last

My third and final child has received the blessed sacrament of First Communion. My heart swells with love and admiration for this little one and her journey as a Christian.  

In what has been a bizarre year, Lucy pushed through and worked hard on her lessons though a virtual catechism class.  It certainly helped that her mama was the one of the teachers.  However, she deserved this moment.  Lucy's faith and love for God amazes me and she was rightfully proud of this day.

Not only did Lucy push through a year of virtual lessons, she also volunteered {on her own accord} to do the reading at the Mass.  Little one practiced the scripture every night and nailed it with clarity and poise.

See Lucy's sweet little head over the pulpit.  That's my girl!

Due to Covid restrictions, only our immediate family was able to attend the Mass.  I snuck Grandma in.  Forgive me God.

We held a small celebration afterwards at an old historic inn.  Lucy was showered with gifts from family and friends who could not attend.  However, Lucy's sweetest and most favorite babysitter joined us.  It was truly special.

                                                     

Congratulations Lucy!  God Bless You.  I know God was smiling down on your sweet soul today.  Keep loving with all your heart!

Yo Yo Yoshi Jack Is 14

FOURTEEN!  Yes, my boy is really 14.  I can hardly believe it.  Jack is growing into an incredible young man and I truly don't think I could be more proud to be his mother.

We celebrated at home as family on his real birth date, April 13th.  He was gifted presents by his sisters, which is getting nearly impossible to come up with.  He also enjoyed his favorite meal of fried shrimp and a giant birthday cake.  

If only I knew what he wished for...to be in the mind of a 14 year old boy.  I can only imagine.

 Jack opted for a small party at the lake house with his best buddies over the weekend. Okay, so what started out as a joke turned into a legit Yoshi themed birthday party.  I told those boys not to underestimate me.  They thought they were being funny, but I don't take birthday party themes lightly.

Their inner child got a great kick out of the Yoshi table all set up and ready for them.  It was complete with stuffed Yoshis for all, Yoshi Pez Dispensers, and even a Yoshi hoodie for each of them.

Look Mom...no braces and Yoshi!  Not a bad way to celebrate 14...the braces came off just a few short days after his real birthday.

Per Jack's request we dined on hot dogs off the grill, green Gatorade, and Nothing Bundt Cakes for dessert.  I even stuck an icing Yoshi on top of all the cakes.

I just adore these boys.  They have been friends since Kindergarten.  And although they have gone  their separate ways in middle school their bond has remained strong.  I am so grateful that Jack has these solid friendships in his life.  Best birthday gift ever!

Did someone say Yoshi Piñata?  Yep!  And those boys went at it with fury.

And you better believe we got some boating in, even in April.  What's a lake party without playing in the water?

 Happy Birthday my dear son!  All that you are growing in to has me beaming with pride.  Keep being smart, witty, strong, and kind.  Good things are in your future.  So glad God gave me you. 💙