Scott

I think my son is pretty talented and here's my proof. Scott is really into Harry Potter. He has read all the books at least twice and knows every movie like the back of his hand. He has purchased and been given many wands, but this one, he made. I'm serious. He created this wand from paper, a narrow wood rod for support, glue and paint. No joke. I think it looks like he carved it.

(Please note - his head is not deformed - my iPhone camera distorts some objects when you are too close!)

What a Surprise!!!

My husband, Mark is turning 40 next month, but with vacation on the horizon, the only time for a party was June. Friday night Mark was quite surprised to find 90 guests and a band gathered at my sister's house to celebrate the big occasion. Some friends and family missed out on the event but a good time was had by all who attended.

I must say what a huge relief is was to have great weather. I prayed for six months that we would have good weather or at least no rain. I got more than I asked for, thank goodness! Although my stomach was in knots for days before the event and I hadn't slept (dreamt of snow!) very well the nights leading up to the event it went great thanks to the awesome help of family and friends.

The food was scrumptious and the band rocked! I have people still calling a telling me how great everything was. I'm glad all had a great time and took the effort and time to attend which meant a lot to Mark.

Paula and Mike thank you soooooo much for the use of your home and the Italian sausages and of course the cupcakes (which I just finished my last one today!).

Dana - what can I say, you and Kevin rocked out the pulled pork that was awesome!!

To the rest of the family that made the side dishes - Thank you - I am so blessed to be part of a family that can cook! Yum, yum!!!

I love you all and again appreciate everyone keeping the secret for so long and helping out. We are truly blessed just by knowing you all.

Oh, you know the saying "It just ain't a party until someone pucks" - well thanks Uncle!!!

You can check out more photos on my facebook page - Photo album open to all - no need to have a facebook account.

PROGRESS!

(Pictures: Extra deep tub, tub walls are subway tile, and a Turkish Marble floor) Our bathroom is finally moving forward. Our neighbor was able to do the taping and muding of the walls for us very quickly (thank goodness for skilled labor!) so our tile guy could work all weekend. He got the tub done and the floor. He'll grout today!!!

It's so exciting to see my vision coming together. Went to pick up light fixtures, only to find out they send the wrong globes! I'm hoping I don't have to wait two more weeks for lighting! I've decided on a paint color and look forward to getting everything complete. I'm being realistic since Mark has a week of several meetings after hours again! Maybe it'll be done by July1st (??) and I'll figure out a way to take pictures of a small room like our bathroom!

Last Day of School!

The kids are done! Of course today was a waste, since it was only for an hour and a half. Scott and Annabelle rode their bikes and raced home, excited to see me! Actually, I think Annabelle thought I had a special treat for them, but I was there to make sure they were able to get into the house okay, since the garage door has been acting up! Sorry girly.

I'd say they are happy to be on summer break, but will miss their non-neighborhood friends.

Scott

Scott finally got his award at school. We had no idea that it would be an hour and half long. Sorry Grandparents and Aunt Paula! Scott was bored for some of the festivities but he was proud to get his award and we are so proud of him.

Mark Cooks dinner

Last weekend, my husband kindly grilled us a fabulous seafood dinner. It was a great evening and we were enjoying an easy going day around the house. The day was so enjoyable that we ended up eating dinner around 8 pm. It was well worth it though. I guess watching those Chef Ramsey shows really got him going! We had shrimp with garlic and butter, asparagus, salmon, red potatoes and a green salad. Everything was really good.

Annabelle and Mojo watching dinner being prepared.

Randy and Baseball

My nephew Randy is playing T-ball this year. Of course, the kids are so ready for pitch ball that the teams introduced coach pitch ball a couple weeks early and the kids are loving it!

Seeing Randy growing up has been such a joy. He's a fun, sweet kid. It's great to see him in training for the White Sox, even though I wish it was for the Cubs!