As the end of the school year approaches...

some reflections.
It's hard to believe that just 9 short months ago, we watched as our son boarded the bus at 7am and headed off to a new school building to start a new chapter in his scholastic career. That same morning we joined MaKenna on her very first bus ride to school. It has been a great year for all of us and the kids have accomplished so many things this year.

Connor has really enjoyed the new building and daily format. He has made the most out of the multitude of activities, clubs and organizations that are offered for these grade levels. He participated and was elected as his class's Student Government association, joined the Paw Print - school paper, band, tried out and made the Page Turner's team, Challenge 24 team and of course Intramurals. Connor really enjoyed his class and his teacher this year. He recognized that he has been "really lucky" to have had "awesome teachers, every year!" He was a little saddened when his teacher was not able to finish out the school year, as she went out at the end of April to have a baby girl! [now that Connor has met this adorable cutie-pie, it was all okay that his teacher didn't finish the year with them!] On Friday, Rick and I were invited to an awards ceremony at Connor's school by his principal. Connor was going to be presented with the Citizenship Award. Connor did not know that he had been chosen for this award and we were asked to keep this as a surprise for him. I avoided the barrage of questions the morning of... boy, does e keep tabs on me!!! Why are you going into work late? what appointment? where do you have to be? for how long???????
Anyway, he was completely surprised and stoked to have won this award! The expression on his face will be etched in my mind forever! Yes, the tears welled up in my eyes! Such a wonderful moment for Connor - a great affirmation for him!
He noticed that we were sitting behind the rows of students shortly before the ceremony started, the good news was that he thought we were there because Rick is on the school board. [I love it when a plan comes together]

MaKenna has had an exceptional year! She developed her own love for school and academia. We have learned that she likes to do, experience things at her own pace. Once she has decided to commit, "she's all in!" otherwise, "forget about it!" Thankfully she had a teacher that understands this about MaKenna and was able to bring out the best in MaKenna! We are grateful for teachers like her, who see the potential in each child and work hard to build on those qualities! Hard to believe that my "baby girl" is officially growing up! Her school career had begun! MaKenna has learned so much this year... all the in & outs of the daily routine, lunch room, play-time, specials and yes, even at this age, friendships! We will attend MaKenna's special "Graduation" ceremony next week and will take some pics to post. We are looking forward to this fun rite of passage!

Then it's Summer Break... yee haa! Connor and MaKenna are looking forward to, and in no particular order...Pools, Lakes, Bikes, Golf, Rec, Bonfires, Camping, Staying up late, Sleeping in, the Drive-in, Fishing, Rec, Fireworks... just carefree time!

Rick and I are looking forward to the above and a slightly more relaxed schedule [maybe wishful thinking on our part :o)], no school calendars, snacks, packing lunches, arguing about what clothes/shoes are appropriate for PE class, bed time, rushing here there and everywhere, permission slips, projects!

Mimi and Me

While Connor and I were off exploring Niagara Falls and it's attractions at the end of May [see post below], MaKenna had a very special day herself. It is an annual tradition that MaKenna's teachers do every year towards the end of the school year. They host a Grandparent's Tea! Mimi made the trip out to our house and met Rick to travel to the school. MaKenna had an extra special treat because her teachers indulged her by making sure that MaKenna was able to have a guest reader; the event that was missed when she was sick during her Star Student week. The timing was perfect and when Mimi arrived in MaKenna's classroom, she became the Guest Reader!
Then it was off to the Tea. This is a picture that MaKenna's teacher took of them! I love this pic, just love the pride that shows on MaKenna's face. It was a nice day for MaKenna because she didn't have to share her Mimi with her, brother, Mom or Dad! I think that it is awesome that MaKenna's teachers recognize just how important Grandparents and extended family is to our children.

1 of the 7 Wonders of the World

At the end of May, I had the pleasure of joining Connor and his 4th grade classmates on a field trip to Niagara Falls. It was a great day, a nice chance to enjoy an experience with Connor and create some memories together. The day started with a visit to Fort Niagara. I had never been there and it was a neat place to tour. I think it's a safe bet to say that the boys loved the "war /battle" element of this portion of the trip. The gift shop had a large selection of muskets, rifles, etc.

Next, we were onto the Aquarium... and I use that term loosely! I have been to a few aquariums in my life so far, so maybe I am spoiled?! We walked into the building and were instantly overcome by the pungent fish smell. You know the kind of smell that feels as though you will have to scrub it off your body, hair and teeth! SERIOUSLY - gross! And you can imagine the comments from the parents! The animals looked as though they were in "rescue" stage of their lives than the "display" stage. Penguins had the mange, some of the fish were missing eyes and had large growths protruding from their bodies. The highlight was the sea lion show and the kids loved it.

Another 4th grade teacher took 2 of Connor's buddies, their Mom's, Connor and I on a "secret" mission. We left the aquarium and took a hike along the trail by the river. There was a small path that branched off the trail and took us right to the edge of the bank of the river. The water was very calm, and beautiful shades and blue and green. I was a nervous wreck because I didn't think that Connor realized just how much of a drop off it was and that there was no railing, fence, etc. I did not get a picture, which I regret because it was so peaceful and beautiful. The boys felt very special to have this opportunity.

We boarded the buses again and headed to the Falls! We did the Maid of the Mist tour. I think that I was as excited as the kids... this is something I have always wanted to do. We donned our blue ponchos and took wagers on just how wet we thought that we would get. Carefully observing all those who were disembarking the boats prior to us. I'm not sure if this next senario would have played out the same way if I was with MaKenna and her girlfriends. You can probably guess where the boys all wanted to be on the boat!? Yep, right up front on the lower level. They had surveyed as many of the Mist's employees to see where the best spot was to stand. The information that they gathered was "spot on"! As you can see, we got wet! The boys thought that it was "cool" that their Mom's ventured to the front with them [little did they know that we wouldn't have had it any other way... unsupervised, at the front of a boat that goes into the Falls????]It was so much fun and absolutely amazing!
What a great day! I will cherish this time spent together for a long time!

6 Wonderful Years...

Our MaKenna turned 6 years old today! Happy Birthday Kenna girl!
It amazes me just how fast the time goes by. Maybe it's because we're in the middle of it? Maybe it's because there is so much to think about? Maybe it's because "time flies when you're having fun!"?
In MaKenna's words, she had "the most awesomest birthday EVER!" This was a great day and a nice way to end a kind of crummy week for MaKenna. She has been sick all week. Battling ear infections, a cough that wouldn't quit and a nasty cold. That was bad enough but, when she had to stay home and miss school [especially since MaKenna was Star Student this week] that was the worst! MaKenna missed the day when she could have a Guest Reader come into the class and the day that she could bring in her birthday snack! Let's just say that the tears flowed and flowed and Rick and I were the most unfair parents ever! Not to fear though, MaKenna's teachers to the rescue... they promised to celebrate when MaKenna returns to school! sigh...big sigh!
The kids were off from school today. Rick and I had to work but the kids had a great day. We started bright and early before I left for work and MaKenna opened some gifts. Then off to some friends house for fun and cupcakes for a mid-morning snack [Ms. Sharon ROCKS!]Back to our house with friends in tow... more fun. For her Birthday Dinner Menu, MaKenna chose Goulash [Italian style], tossed salad with chi chi beans and fresh fruit salad! For dessert, no cake here just Twisters, please!
Six years ago today, I was in my hospital bed, getting acquainted to my beautiful, blessed baby girl and falling head over heals in love with her! Today, six years later I feel even more blessed and in love with MaKenna then I did on that day! MaKenna is my Lovey Girl!
We love you and wish you a Happy Birthday!

Some of this and Some of that!

It is amazing how quickly time goes by. It has been awhile since I have posted and it seems like too long. I enjoy blogging and sharing our happenings with those of you who read about them. This blog has allowed me to try and keep the family and friends who span the miles close to our hearts. So much has been going on... so I'll try to bring you up to speed!

• Rick has been as busy as ever! He is coaching Connor's lacrosse team again this spring. He really enjoys the sport and working with the kids. Connor likes having Rick as a coach and I can only hope that they both continue to enjoy this time together and the fond memories that they are creating. Work for Rick has been going well also. He is such a hard worker and he likes the insurance business! Rick has joined me in the commitment to a more fit lifestyle. He is very close to his goal and feeling great about it!
• Connor is loving the Spring weather, Lacrosse, 4th grade - the Intermediate school and all the activities that are happening there! Connor competed on the Page Tuners [reading competition] team and his team one the division and will compete in the regionals at the beginning of June. Connor also tried out for the Challenge 24 [math] team and made it. He will be competing with this team sometime in early June.Connor's teacher went out on maternity leave and welcomed a beautiful baby girl at the end of April. Connor and his classmates are adjusting to their long-term sub . We are looking forward to the 4th grade field trip to Niagara Falls. I will be chaperoning the trip. Lacrosse has taken the reigns as Connor's favorite sport[we'll see what happens when golf, football and skiing seasons roll around?]! !
• MaKenna continues to light up our world! She can hardly wait to be officially 6 years old. She is star student this week so we spent some time today gathering up some photos. MaKenna made me feel like a super star myself as she wanted to bring in every single scrapbook that I have made her. She said" I just can't choose Mom, I LOVE them all!" MaKenna decided to play lacrosse this Spring. She has been "warming" up to it. She "really doesn't care for the mouth piece... because it makes it too hard to talk!" She is "so frustrated" with the goggles! They "never stay where they're suppose to stay"! She "cannot run or hustle when the coach tells them to because I need cleats!" Sneakers are just "too slippery"! The good news is that after MaKenna had her first goal she seemed to get along just well with her equipment! Our weeknights are spent on the grounds of the school's athletic fields and Saturdays are spent traveling to games. Can't think of many other things that I would rather be doing. It is awesome to witness your kids having fun!
  

• An interesting factoid... my father emailed the following to me.

Bre has made the All Army female (6 members) triathlon team and Brooke has made the All Navy team. They will compete in California on May 27 with the top 6 of the 24 entrants qualifying for the World Championships in Europe. Both are very nervous since this is their first test in a big time competition. Neither expect to make the next stage but hope to use this race as a foundation for future races. Bre's lack of training due to injuries and other maladies will also hamper her. Husband and brother Jesse is fortunate that he will be at sea chasing the bad guys so his allegiance won't be visible !!

Bre is my youngest sister. Brooke is my sister-in-law, married to my youngest brother, Jesse. Now just imagine if my sister Sarah wasn't recovering from back surgery and had made the All Air Force triathlon team??? It never has really dawned on me, but out of my 4 siblings, 3 are active, dedicated members of our Country's armed forces in 3 different branches. I have a bil and a sil who also serve! Thank you to them all, for their service!

Rock the VOTE....Rick the Vote

Rick, Rick, he's our man!
Tuesday is our school district's vote. Budget and school boards member's fate to be determined.
Rick is running for a seat on the board. We have had lots of conversation about this opportunity. It all started when I mentioned to Rick that I was thinking of running for the board myself. Rick was supportive and we hashed out the pros and cons. As time passed and the it was announced that there were openings on the board, I had started my new job. Rick and I felt that with both kids being students in the district it was time for one of us to volunteer and run for the board. We decided that with my schedule it would be best for Rick to run.

It has been somewhat of a cathartic process. It has brought back some fond memories of when my Dad ran for school board. I can remember our family helping with the "campaigning"! We stood outside... a specific distance away from the entrance of the school, and handed out fliers, asking people to vote for our Dad! I believe that I learned about civic duties, volunteering and being part of working towards the greater good from my parents! They have all set examples of this throughout my life! I only hope that Rick and I can do the same for Connor and MaKenna.

Random thoughts, updates and more...

Just thought I'd take the opportunity to ramble to anyone who's willing to read.

So it's been 6 months since I started on my fitness journey[check some of my first posts on this blog or the links on the right of this blog to my fitness blog...working it out] and the motivation started to seep away a few weeks ago. I came down with a nasty cold and it wiped me out. I kept up with my normal routine until I realized that I wasn't getting any better and decided to cut back. Well, the cold got better but my drive was depleted. Not a good thing for me. I have accomplished a lot so far. I am proud of every pound that I have lost [24# to date], every muscle I have built - getting some definition back, every sweat that I've broke, every puke [yes, I said puke and yes, I've done it more than once] and every last rep that I have eeeked out! But, like I said in the beginning, I have accepted the fact that this is more than reaching a certain weight or fitness level, I have decided that this needs to be a way of life for me. And, while I know that if I am truly going to make this a way of life I need to accept that I am going to have the ups and downs that are just part of every person's lives. Let's just say that's easier said than done for me!
I work out with 3 great women and a hard-ass trainer. She is not a yeller like Jillian on the Biggest Loser but she will push you to your breaking point and still want more! Can you see the determination on my face yet??? You all know how I love a challenge! Enough said! We do a great job of pushing one another and motivation is another plus.
After this week's workouts I think my "drive" is back! On Tuesday, our trainer came in at 5:45am, big smile and announced that we were going to do 30 Man Makers [if you really want to know what these are, check out the Cross Fit Link to the right and search Man Makers] for time. We all looked at her and waited with eager eyes and baited breath for her to say "April Fool"...
no such luck! OMG! It was a hard workout! And never fail, Bethany did not disappoint us today. 100 jumping jacks, 50 sit-ups [straight legs & touch your fingers to your toes], 50 supine hip extensions using a physio ball. 5 rounds for time. My abs will be burning, burning, burning [Sarah & Rob relate there]! And if that wasn't enough, I went for my 3 mile loop walk when I got home from work. It was a gorgeous day and it felt good to be outside. I think that I'd better have my mojo back after those work outs!

Connor is helping out with the Varsity Lacrosse team's home games. He went tonight for the first game. Before he left for the game he asked me if I had a black sharpie marker. He wanted it so that he could ask "the guys for their autographs". It was so cute! It reminded me just how impressionable he still is and how excited he must of felt to be able to go "hang" with the "Varsity Lacrosse Players"! I remember when I was young and my father coached college wrestling. I loved to tag along to the practices and matches. I felt so cool when the athletes would acknowledge my existence. I also remember going to home college basketball games with my family. The players knew our family and would sometimes stop and chat with us. It was awesome to "look up" to them. It's nice to have heroes!

Thanks for reading!