Happy Birthday, Son!

To my handsome son,

Today is your day, your 14th birthday! I cannot believe you are 14. It is official that you are no longer a boy, but on a journey to manhood. It's weird and emotional and exciting, all at the same time. I can honestly say that I could not be more proud of you. You work extremely hard on your grades and sports. You are so handsome, so kind. I love how good you are with Adrianne. She loves her big bubby. I love that you and Ashton tell secrets to one another and protect each other. You are a special young man who has a bright future in store. I only wish I had a baby picture that I could embarrass you with! (I couldn't get any of them to scan correctly onto the computer, too bad).

Ashton's First Public Ballet Performance

Ashton performed yesterday afterschool, along with another girl, to celebrate the grand opening of the school's coffee shop. She did beautifully. Her ballet teacher was pleased with their performance.

The Cheerleader

She had never been Trick or Treating before and I haven't taken any of my kids in many years. However, I thought it was innocent fun and really wanted to see her get out and enjoy herself. I figured she would be super duper shy and not say a word, but boy was I wrong! She bee-bopped right up to each door and loudly proclaimed "Trick or Treat", as she then shouted, "Thank you" after each gift. She sometimes even gave a quick cheer of "Go Tigers!" The whole family walked around the neighborhood and it took about an hour. She had the best time, actually we all did. We took turns taking her up to the door.

Live the Dream 2009

Healing Place Church's Live the Dream 2009----random pics of events, friends, and family.

I'm still in shock of all God did.

My aunt and her friend drove many hours to experience this with me.

There were funny skits, powerful speakers, inspiring songs, and 100s of corn dogs! There were 1200-1300 women present with another 1000 online. You cannot put into words how God moved on the ladies that were part of this event. I've been part of many ladies events through the years and this was like none other.

For more detailed info, see http://www.thelifeofasinglemom.com/.

To My Children...

Each of my children is so special & different. I love them so much. When I look at little Adrianne, I cannot believe how fast it is all happening. She is the cutest little thing! She announced to me last week, "I pwanning my burfday party. It gonna be at Chuck-E-Cheese!" Yes, she has decided 3 months early and without any prompting from her mother, that she would plan her own party.

As I posted recently, Ashton has been busy doing softball, ballet, and school. She starts basketball in a couple weeks. She received her report card today and her dance teacher had written her the sweetest letter. "Ashton in twenty years of teaching dance, I have never seen someone learn as quickly as you. It is amazing how you learn each nuance of a skill and your sensitivity to music. I hope you recognize the gift you have. Keep dance in your life." Wow, how sweet for a mom to hear that!

Dylon is busy too. He is playing football and basketball will start for him a few weeks, too. His teachers wrote him letters too. The common theme was as follows: "Dylon, you are a born leader. You bring the same drive and enthusiasm for sports to the academic field. You are polite and kind."

My cups runs over........

The Maggio Family Holiday Season Pics

I had to scan these into our system, because the CD the portrait studio gave me isn't working. I just thought I would share our recently family pics. We usually do Christmas pictures, but we decided this year to beat the rush and do Fall pictures instead. You will still be getting these with Christmas cards, though! Love my family...

My handsome son.....

These are a few of Dylon's pics from his football games this year. He is number 12. I am so proud of him and he really enjoys the sport. I think this definitely makes him tougher for basketball season!