Anna's party

Anna turns 8 soon.  She had her party at a local ceramic store.

I think they had fun, but as always, it was a little chaotic.  (and yes...below is the best group photo I have....remember that chaotic comment earlier!  Carolyn took this shot as I lit the candles.  Ken was at Boy Scout camp with Joel....so I was outnumbered!)

Word of the Year

STRIVE

I know it isn't January 1st, but it took me awhile to come up with my word.  Truth be told, it would have been different 5 months ago had I been forced to choose and I LOVE this word.

Lately I have been reading and listening to Gretchen Rubin and I am changed person.  Ok - I know that sounds dramatic, but it is so true.  More on that later.  My word fits my life right now, because I'll be honest, sometimes the things I strive for are still in the "attempt" stage.  That is why STRIVE is such a good word.  My house might look a mess, but I am STRIVING to make it better.  Had I chosed "clean" for my word, I would always be disappointed because rarely is that the sight I see.  However, when I think STRIVE, I remember that my office is very tidy, both cars are parked in the garage, my storage room has come SOOOOO far and is almost picture ready and my laundry room is a lovely place instead of a "quick close the door" kind of area!  

See why STRIVE is so great?  Even when I only have a minute or two, I can STIVE to be better!

(re: the photo.....the picture is Anna at the last Cub Scout rocket launch last fall....she is striving to catch a rocket!)

Matthew's Confirmation

My sister was Matthew's wonderful Confirmation Sponsor.  In the Des Moines Dioceses this is quite a committment and I think their special bond grew over the many required discussions!  (Mary also was my nephew's sponsor a few weeks earlier and came for Anna's First Communion AND had shoulder surgery 2 weeks ago....so a pretty amazing gal!)

 Grandma and Grandpa made the repeat trip 5 days after Anna's First Communion.

 Here is the family after our First Confirmation...many more of these to come!

It was really special to watch the 16 year olds receive the Holy Spirit.  (again sorry no pics allowed!)  Matthew's face was lit-up!

Anna's First Communion

I love the Sacraments.  I love the beauty of the cermemony (sorry pics not allowed) and the joy of family coming together to celebrate on child's special day!  Our last First Communion was no exception.  My sister, brother, brother-in-law, parents and in-laws, and 2 of Anna's cousins all came for Anna's special day.  Our best pictures were from my sister's phone (thank you Mary!).  This is why she is not in any picture!

 We were blown away by the wind before the entire group could gather...plus Anna and I needed to be very early.

 Anna's GodFather (mine too)

Lovely lovely day!