Nikki and her roommate Merideth in the meatlocker

I wasn't able to fix the eye thing that is going on with Nikki's eyes.  My mom is much better at that.  I still thought I would let the family see Nikki's roommate.  She is a nice kid.  Life is not perfect, mostly because of the lack of space.  You can see each girl next to their bed.  The other side of the bed is all the bigger the room is.  Also, maybe 7 or 8 steps from the door to the beginning of the armoir, which is at the end of the bed.  Not a whole lot of room.  She is surviving and actually handling the new change well.

Family Days at GVSU 2013

Nikki standing outside one of the many tents that were part of the rennesiance days at the college.

The college band heading out to the football game as we were heading out to see the comedian Gallagher at the local high school.

The COTU reluctantly agreed to let me take this picture before we went into the high school for the show.

Waiting for the show to begin.

I was using my phone, so not the best pictures, but he told us he is 67 and that if he can pull off a two hour show that all other comedians should keep up.  He was just as funny as in his younger days.  Still did the sledgeomatic and had everyone in tears.  As funny as he ever was and still kept the humor relevant to today.  Good for him.  The COTU's enjoyed the humor even though his hayday was before either one was born.  A good time had by all.  Glad to have shared this with my awesome daughter!

TJ and his first deer, Sept. 2013

Maybe not the prettiest picture, but I and the rest of the family are very proud.  Not only is this his first deer, but it was on opening day of youth hunt and this was his first time hunting.  He actually got the first kill of the day before anyone else.  He got it within 20 to 30 minutes of seeing it.  He used a bow which I have seen.  It is big, awkward and a bit heavy.  Good job TJ.  His uncle was sure TJ would get a deer and he was right.  TJ enjoyed it and wants to do it again.  Very proud mama!

TJ getting ready for highschool

Orientation day at the high school.  It is official.  He had his student ID done and has a schedule.  He actually got B lunch which is 12 in the afternoon.  Lucky freshman.  He feels he has an easy schedule.  That is a good thing.  Not excited about getting up early, but happy to hang with friends again.  He has gotten some tips from his sister to prepare for the year.  I can't believe I have two freshman.  The time flew by soooo quick.  I know Ted is smiling and will be with them on their journey.  Good luck!

My birthday with pretty flowers from Brad

Even though turning 48 is not something I am thrilled about, these flowers arriving at 10:00 this morning gave me a smile and has made my day.  Thank you Brad.  You know what melts my heart.  I was spoiled rotten by my wonderful family with presents and dinner of my choice.  Wild Chef of course.  Thank you mom and dad for awesome presents, beautiful card and of course, amazing dinner.  The fine chocolates from my dad always make for an excellent dessert.  My kids also did an amazing job, with clothing and jewelry and even a GVSU mug from my daughter that says GVSU Mom on it.  I will enjoy all the wonderful presents and enjoy these beautiful roses for weeks to come.  Since my college daughter is in her first day of classes today, we may Skype her tonight to top off my birthday.

My up north pictures for the fourth of July weekend

Mackinac Bridge.  The entry to the upper peninsula.

Mackinac Island.  The view from the top of the hill at the restaurant we had lunch at.

Fort Mackinac on the island at the top of the hill.  Very interesting history.  The soldiers trying to train the civilians in how to march correctly.  It was very funny to watch.

Once you get up north far enough, the beaches are all pebbles.  This requires water shoes, or I have been told old tennis shoes work just fine.  I used my flip flops.  They worked.

One last amazing picture of a well known rock on Mackinac Island.  Yes, there is a place to climb this.  Hoping to do that next time.

Coast Guard Cutter leaving the Soo Locks in Sault St. Marie.

Tributes to the Edmund Fitzgerald at White Fish Point in the Great Lakes Ship Wreck Museum.  They were playing the song for a little while in the museum and even had a short movie that we watched about that horrible day in history.  A sobering experience.  So many years later and sadness of that tragedy can be still felt in that museum.

There are even more beautiful pictures of these falls in my collection of pictures.  Tahquamenon Falls in the northern part of the upper peninsula.  Canada is just on the other side of that peninsula.  Pictures do not do it justice.  Brad and I will be going back and staying at their campground.

More graduation pictures, courtesy of Ted's cousin Rena

 

These are some of my favorites.  Still in some disbelief that I have a highschool graduate.  Soooo proud of her.  I know Ted is watching and smiling with pride.  We still wish though that he was here to share that wonderful time of her life.  Miss you Ted.

finally, the awards ceremony pictures

Finally was able to load those pictures.  Sooooo proud!!!!!!  She is officially done and thrilled.

Awards for Nikki

Nikki and her friend Jessica with their awards.

 

An award and a pin to put on her gown.  I am a proud mama!  Congratulations Nikki!

Prom 2013

It was a beautiful night, and so was she. She had the time of her life!

Here with her brother (below) and Brad (above.)

With two of her friends next door at the park.

With her very proud Mom.