Saturday, December 28, 2013

family

 (all we need is a Ben to make us complete)











This day made our Christmas extra special.  My brother and his wifey are the cutest little love birds ever.

Friday, December 27, 2013

Thursday, December 26, 2013

Christmas Recital

Maddi had a Christmas recital a last week.  She was an angel and danced to Away in a Manger.  She did an excellent job, remembered all of her steps, and didn't get stage fright this time!  Drew had a hockey game right before her performace (which they won in the last 30 seconds) and then Dad and Drew made it just in time to watch her dance and hand her some beautiful pink roses.  Here are a few pictures from dress rehearsal and dance day. 
And she turned around to blow me a kiss right before she headed on stage. swoon!

Wednesday, December 25, 2013

maddi is five





This beautiful, compassionate, goofy little girl turned five on Sunday.  Every day with her has been a blessing.  Happy birthday sweet girl!

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Oh Christmas tree

Every so often I catch this little lady, lost in thought, staring at the glowing Christmas tree.  We're having such a special Christmas this year.  We have family staying with us, good health to celebrate, and Grandma's goodies lining the kitchen counter tops.  I hope this little lady gains a few more special Christmas memories this year as we celebrate Christmas together.

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Marco Island and more
















We had such a nice, relaxing trip to Naples this time.  I absolutely loved every moment I got to spend with Grandma and Grandpa and enjoyed being with the kids and hubs without distraction.  We had a nice drive down, went to the beautiful Marco Island, lunched in Goodland (a quaint little fishing village), relaxed on the beach, watched dolphins play, ate at our favorite restaurant, walked downtown and enjoyed the Christmas lights, went to Tin City, spent time with Sean's brother, relaxed on the beach some more, cooked with Grandma, listened to Grandpa share memories, went shopping with Grandma, went to the Botanical Gardens, built sandcastles, read a few books, played at the pier, and even managed to avoid a sunburn.  I've grown to love our tradition of Thanksgiving in Naples.  It allows us to refocus on each other, strengthens our friendship as a family, and has become an anchor for me.... a place to feel loved and safe and cared for.... a second home.