Memorial Day 2010

We remember all who have given their lives so that we may have our freedom.

My dad was in World War II, and my brother Ray (above) was in Vietnam.   Two of the bravest men I know (miss you dad).

With Kiddie Land closing this summer, I thought it would be nice to bring the kids there for a first and last visit.  We used to go to Kiddie Land when my older girls were little and I remember going with my parents as a child.  We had a fun time, although we were supposed to meet one of Ross’ friends and his family.  They got there about a half an hour after us and literally could not park.  It was that crowded.  Even with the crowds though, we didn’t have to wait too long to get on the rides.  The kids had a blast and went on many a spinning ride.  I snapped this picture of the kids on one of the spinning rides, Ross looks like he is going to throw up.  When I asked him if he felt sick, he said “no - I just like to hold my breath when spinning”.  Uh, okay.

It’s kind of sad that they are closing up the amusement park.  At least we got to experience it as a family and will have the memories and the photos.  They are still open on weekends through the end of this month I believe.  We may try for one last visit since the weather is so summery now.

It has been a busy week for back to school this week.  We had been looking forward to Ross’ first day of Kindergarten today, but we were pleasantly surprised with the turn of events for other family members.  I went back to school on Tuesday, with a cohort program that will earn me my MATC, a Masters in Education Degree and Teaching Certificate.  Ashley also signed herself up for school by registering for her first class towards her undergraduate degree.  We are quite the scholarly family this week.  And while I do not have photos of Ashley’s first day or mine, I do have some of Ross’.

Ross and Francesca before firstbell.

What does a boy do when you tell him it’s too heavy?  He tries to prove you wrong.  Look at his face.  This lasted a few seconds before he finally turned over the backpack full of school supplies.

A hug for her brother, the Kindergartner, after his very first day of school.  It was a good first day for the class, no tears from any of the children.  I can’t say the same for the moms.

Waiting for dance class to begin.

Sorry about the red eye!

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So many of my photos of Francesca are fuzzy.  She moves all the time and never stops!  This session of Dance is over for now but she loved it, so we will definitely sign up again.  She loves to wear her dance outfit and routinely wears it around.

Their first practice and uniform day.

Up at bat.

We’ll try this one again.

Way to break the uniform in after the game.

King of the hill!

Pre-K is officially over, with a lovely little patriotic program and a certificate ceremony to boot!  Afterwards, a picnic in the park organized by the Pre-K moms.  It was a beautiful day and hours were spent in the park, kids playing and moms talking.  I was so busy enjoying I didn’t even get any pictures.  Here are some from the program to enjoy!

Ross is thrilled - he gets to keep the hat!

Looking very proud, certificate in hand.  Next stop Kindergarten!

I actually teared up during the program.  I can cry at a Hallmark commercial.  I can’t believe Ross is off to this next phase in his life.  My little guy is growing up.

My daughter Nicole and her husband Brandon have been waiting a long time for Eleanor to arrive.  I can’t express how joyful we are to have her here - safe and sound, healthy and beautiful.  Mom, dad and baby are all doing well.

Eleanor is all of about 18 hours old in these photos.  She is a very alert little girl.  She seems older than a newborn, it must be from the extra two weeks that she decided to stay inside, all comfy and cozy.  Welcome to the world little Eleanor.  We love you.  God Bless you.

Gosh it’s been a while since I posted - so sorry!  Things have been a little hectic but I now find some down time.  Nicole was induced this morning, she has been laboring since about noon.  And now, at almost 10pm, she is still laboring.  Today was my dads birthday, if my granddaughter is born today she’ll be in good company.  Looks light it might go into the wee morning hours of tomorrow though. 

I won’t post too much about this as I will leave the details for Nicole to post when her little miracle is born.  Let’s just say it is very hard to watch your daughter in pain, even if you know it’s a good thing, having a baby and all.  Hoping she has a smooth, safe delivery and that mom, baby and dad all come through healthy, safe and happy, albeit tired.

I’m off now,  to not worry at all.  Right.  A feeling Nicole will know all to well when she becomes a mother.  Prayers and well thoughts.  I can’t wait to meet my beautiful granddaughter and kiss the new mom and dad!

Easter has passed and it was a very busy, very wonderful time for all of us.  The children went to Soldier Field for the candy grab, we had our own Easter Egg hunt at Nonna’s house and went to mass Easter Sunday and then had the family over for dinner.

At Soldier Field

Coloring Easter eggs

Nonna’s Easter egg hunt

checking out the candy

Yum, chocolate!

Easter Bunny brought baskets and Wii!

Hope your holiday was wonderful.  As for me, NO MORE CHOCOLATE!

Francesca had her first pre-ballet class this week.  She has been so patient over the past year going with me to all of the classes Ross has been signed up for and waiting patiently (well, sometimes patiently) .  I thought she might be a little apprehensive about me leaving her in the dance studio with the teacher and the other kids but she was all “see ya” to me.

The class description included the suggestion that the children could wear dance clothes or comfortable clothes.  I brought Francesca in shorts and a t-shirt.

She was the ONLY one that was not in dance attire, more specifically; the only child not in a pink leotard, pink tutu and pink tights with ballet slippers.  Not this mattered one bit to her.  But it did to me.   I’m all for self expression and individuality but right after class we ran to the store and pinked up picked up proper ballet attire.  Only fitting for a tiara wearing princess.  And only fair anyway since Ross started karate and will soon be wearing his new karate uniform.