Ann and Tyson's Wedding

On Sunday, my dear friend Ann was married! Ann and I lived together while we served in FOCUS at the University of Nebraska and University of Denver. She has been an amazing friend and confidant. I am extactic she found the love of her life. It was a true joy to watch them over this past year prepare for this day. They are going to be a wonderful couple and inspiration to all married couples.

Congratulations, Ann and Tyson, on your wedding. Please know that I will be praying for you as you begin this new journey in your lives! Marriage is so wonderful!! Enjoy it!

The rehearsal dinner was "cowboy attire," as Tyson and his family are from Texas. We were all geared up!

Ann getting her hair done just a few hours before the wedding. Her mom, maid of honor and myself were there cheering her on!

Ann with her flower girl, Trinity.

Ann with all of us bridesmaids right before she walked down the aisle.

Chris and I at the reception. My parents, who were also in attendance, were extremely gracious to help with the kiddos during the ceremony and reception so that we could enjoy ourselves.

Catherine having a grand time crawling and "cruising" around at the reception

Jonathan and his buddy, Gabe, cheering on the individuals giving toasts

Happy 31st Birthday, Chris!

It's true, Chris turned 31 on Saturday! We were able to celebrate on Friday night with a meal out to The Macaroni Grill. yum yum We were planning to see a movie afterwards, but missed the showings we were interested in. We improvised and walked around the Inverness at Interlocken, a very nice hotel and resort, just down the street from the restaurant. We found these really cool outdoor fireplaces. It was fun just to sit, relax, be warm and chat.

On Saturday we traveled to Colorado Springs for the remainder of the weekend. One of my dad's birthday gifts to Chris was a ride on his motorcycle! They both had a grand time.

I think that Chris had a wonderful time turning 31. What do you think???

Happy Birthday, Chris!

Picture, please!

The other day Jonathan was dying to have picture taken!

He also wanted me to take Catherine's picture too. he he

Easy Entertainment

Well, if you are looking for something to keep your kiddos occupied for awhile then have a tree removed in your yard! he he

As the "arborist" was working hard at taking down and disposing our Hawthorne tree right by our front window the kiddos were mesmorized. I was able to get SO MUCH done in that 30 minutes.

Jonathan and Catherine were glued to our front window for 30 minutes!

The Graduate

This past weekend my little sister, Anna, graduated from Regis University with a degree in Psychology. It's so hard to believe. Over the past four years she has had her challenges, but also many joys. It has been incredible to see her grow and mature into the young woman she is now through all of her experiences. I am proud to call her my sister and my friend! Congratulations, Anna, on all your hard work and dedication!! I only hope that God will continue to bless you in the new chapter of your life that you will soon begin, marriage, as He did these past four years.

Here I am with Justin and my parents waiting for the graduates to process in. The morning stared a little chilly, but warmed up drastically. I think that almost everyone got sun burned.

The "original" clan, if you will, with the graduate. Quinn was running around with Padraic... it is really hard trying to have an 18 month old sit through a very boring 2 hour graduation ceremony. Chris and the kids were not able to attend the graduation ceremony- as both Catherine and Jonathan were sick. And, Justin was taking the picture. he he

Anna and her fiance, Justin

We all celebrated Sunday afternoon with a meal at P.F. Chang's. (Jonathan's face is hilarious!!)

The question many people have been asking is, 'what's Anna going to do now?' Well, she is temporaily living at home with my parents where she will be working and planning her wedding. In October she will move close to St. Louis (on the Illinois side) for at least 2 years with her new husband. So, I must get in as much Anna time as I can before she gets married!