Missing Alana

Remembering sweet Alana Dee today, as 1 year ago she left this earth to be with her King. I think and miss her daily. I struggle with the missing peice of my heart since she's been gone, but remember that God has a plan for everything that He does. I pray for her kids all the time, hoping that they will always know what a great mother they have. I keep her spirit alive, by striving to be a better person. By that, I try to be more positive, love harder, and play with Braylon just a little bit longer. The 5 years that I was blessed to have Alana in my life, will always be cherished and never forgotton. I will ever be so grateful for the last meal we shared together, just 2 weeks before her passing. It was a breakfast that almost didn't happen because "life" nearly got in the way. I will never forget that day and always thank God for that time we shared.

Kaylynn turns FOUR

Kaylynn's birthday was very special this year. Kaylynn had a great party and has grown to be such a big girl. She is out of the "toddler" stage and turning into a young lady who loves shoes, loves to twirl her dresses, and loves to boss her little sister around. We had a great celebration, especially because we were together as a family. This was the first time that my mom, my dad, jj, my grandma, and I were all together celebrating happy times, in many many (13) years. It was really nice to all be together and celebrate with Kaylynn. David and Jennie as well as their side of the family have never been together with my parents at the same time either, so it was very special.

Once again, I am truly amazed by the work God is doing in my family's lives. He works in ways that take my breath away and I am so thankful for His many blessings. I know He is far from done at being a miracle worker in restoring and healing relationships in our families lives, and I look forward to being a true witness to His incredible works.

Cali here we come!

We had a great time in the Bay area of California this weekend. Mom, David, Bray, and I flew to Oakland on Friday morning, only to rent a car and drive ourselves across the bay to San Fran. We hung out at Fisherman's Wharf so mom could see the sights. This was her first time to San Fran, so we were excited to show her what we could. The best part of the day was when we were able to meet up with Candice and her amazing twin boys. They were in town the same weekend for their cousins weddings, so of course we had to go see them. Our visit was short but sweet of course and I am so grateful to have had that time with them.

We arrived later on that evening in San Jose and watched Madison and Taylor cheer at the first Friday Night Football game of the year. Both girls did great. Taylor is a freshman this year and really did a great job. Madison is a seasoned pro as she is a senior this year.

Saturday we spent the day at Santa Cruz boardwalk. It was the perfect chilly day for a crispy warm corn dog, garlic french fries, and some great carnival rides. Tommy surprised braylon with his very own "unlimited ride" wristband. I was a little nervous at first, not wondering if Bray would be "big" enough for the toddler rides. Tommy assured me that there would be some rides for him to go on. We proceeded to the first ride, some little "indy" st lye cars. I was able to go with him on this ride and he really liked it. The next ride, would be my heart breaker. It was a little shamu-looking whale that went around in circles while slowing moving up and down. Braylon, at 15 months was HALF the age of the other kids on the ride. It was super cute to see his "what is happening, I'm not so sure of this" look on his face as he went around and around. I got him to crack one or two smiles throughout the ride, the rest of the time he had this scared-to-death-look on his face. It was priceless, but overall I think he enjoyed it because he couldn't wait to go on the next ride. The rest of the afternoon was spent riding flying dragons and Pepsi semi truck trains. Later that evening, we went to Capitola Beach and enjoyed a great dinner ocean side at Paradise Grill. It was truly a great cap to a wonderful day.

Sunday we visited 2 different vineyards in northern California. I have always wanted to visit a winery, and it was truly a wonderful time. God continues to amaze me with the beauty of his creation of earth. It was like out of a magazine to see the sites at these vineyards. Viewing these gorgeous scenes while sipping on some fantastic wine was a wonderful day spent. Our "dessert" included a great pedicure at the local nail shop. Did I mention the guys joined us for the occasion? YES! After 10 years of begging David, I finally got him to get a pedicure. He even admitted, that he liked it! Later on, we enjoyed the evening at Santana Row, which is where the "night life" happens in the heart of San Jose.

Monday was Labor day, and not laboring was on the agenda. We took up shopping at the outlet malls, only to include my traditional visit to the Coach outlet. I had to take advantage of the amazing Labor day sales right? -wink- After a day of shopping, we came home to a delicious b-b-q cooked by Tommy. Fillet and baked potato...yum!

We had a wonderful trip and I am truly grateful for the wonderful relationship we have with Tommy and the girls. Can't wait to spend my "30th birthday" with them as well! YES!!!! They are flying out for my party! So excited!!!!!