Maddison's baptism

Wow, I never put up pictures of Maddie's baptism! Over a year ago!

Halloween 2011

I just realized looking through posts and pictures, I have a lot that is missing. I am not going to go through and post everything that has happened the past year or two, but I will post some things that I want to remember. Halloween 2011 was one of them.
This past Halloween was our families favorite by far. We decided to go to Disney's Halloween party, where the shut the park down in the afternoon and evening for special ticket holders only. There is unlimited trick-or-treating, rides with no lines, and amazing costumes. We decided that if we go, we should go all out. Mary Poppins style. I had so much fun getting our costumes together. The thrift stores were my bff during that time. And the kids loved it. Going through the park, I didn't see any other Mary's, or the rest of the crew for that matter. We had people stopping us asking for pictures, and got so many compliments. It was just so fun, for one night, to dress up and be someone else. Isn't that what Halloween is about anyway?

Gramma Vi

This sweet lady went "home" in the early hours this morning. A sweet relief amidst our sadness. No one ever thought, or wished, she would last this long. It is always hard to see loved ones suffer, and deteriorate into someone so unrecognizable.
So many memories came flooding back this morning from my childhood spent with Gramma Vi. More than this blog could ever hold. But, I will always cherish my time spent with her. For it was her kitchen in Wheaton, Il where I learned how to bake, wash dishes, and show love to my family through food.
Gramma was the epitome of a lady. I never saw her without her hair done, even in her last days. She was always dressed perfectly, never showed anger, never judged, always loved with every bit of her soul. If I could be half of what she was, I will be pleased.
A few months ago I was able to go to my fathers cabin and visit her one last time and say my goodbyes. Bitter sweet. I saw my childhood flash before my eyes when I was holding her hand. And, though she looked nothing like I was used to, she still was perfect. Skin just as beautiful as ever, hair curled just right, and her bottle of perfume by her hospital bed. She couldn't say much, but neither could I . It was in that moment of our eyes locking, saying we loved each other, we will see each other soon....I felt love. We knew. We didn't have to speak. Just the touch of her hand, and a kiss on the cheek, was all I needed. I can not wait for the day to see her again.