"Happy Independence Day, Daddy!"

 
 
 
Dennis taught Ethan to say "Happy Independence Day" and it was so adorable. We had a wonderful day in Augusta with family...grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, great-grandparents...the boys got plenty of attention! We even made a trip over to the Woodbridge Pool where I spent many summer days growing up. Mom and Dad's church had a service and bar-b-que. It was touching to see my grandfather honored for his service in WWII and to hear all of the patriotic music--really makes me thankful to live in such an amazing country that is worthy of fighting for.

Happy Retirement, Frances!

 
 
 
Frances started working for my family before I was born, and she has always been part of my life. I am thankful for her presence in my life for many reasons. For starters, she provided love that was different from what I received from my parents (she didn't HAVE to love me, yet she did!), she was the most dependable and reliable person I've ever known (she missed 3 days of work in 32 years!), and she tells it like it is. She is truly a part of our family.
As the four "kids" (Catie, Chad, Matt, and I) pondered this big event, it felt like the end of an era. We are officially grown up if Frances is no longer at 3 Pine Hill Ct. on Thursdays! We had a wonderful time last weekend with all of her kids, plus some of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. What a unique opportunity to celebrate Frances! Thank you, Frances, for all the years you spent with us and for making us feel like your own.

Hair Cuts

 
 
 
Isaac needed his first hair cut a bit earlier than Ethan! The two boys had a great time getting trimmed up last week. They look great...always look older to me, which makes me sad...but definitely an improvement!