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.