Jackson's Recital

I wanted to make sure I shared with you Jackson's recent piano recital. Tyler and I were in Boston at the time so unfortunately, I missed seeing it and Tyler missed playing in it as well. He did a terrific job and has come a long way! The teacher always comments at how well he does and how hard he concentrates during practices. I hope you enjoy!

Tyler's Choir Concert

I wanted to share a short video clip of Tyler singing at her 80's 6th grade choir concert on May 26th. She wanted to sing a solo, but struggled about which song to sing. She finally landed on a song - probably the best song ever produced (in my opinion)! She had her hair crimped with her bangle bracelets - I hope you enjoy! (note: the shakey video is the nervousness in Heidi's hands)

Ohio Snow

Just a few pictures from a recent snow storm we had here.

Teega: December 1994 - October 23, 2008

I wanted to make this entry short. After several months of debating what was best for my old dog, we finally felt that she was simply not happy anymore with her quality of life. Hard to describe unless you have been put in this situation, but I guess it is one of those things that you "just realize." She was a happy dog that simply loved people, especially kids. She especially loved the outdoors! Heidi and I were talking about how Teega would always lay in the flower bed in front of our house in Georgia, like she was protecting the home front. When she was younger, she was always willing to go on a jog with me. Her favorite past time was water. We bought her a baby pool one time and she was sit in it all the time during the summer! Crazy...she loved the snow too and would gallop through it during the winter. The kids loved her and she loved the kids. Paris would always make sure that she had food, water and a bone.

Taking her to the animal hospital was one of the hardest things that I have ever had to do. The following poem was given to me by my grandmother that really made me realize that I needed to think of her more than simply be selfish and keep her going because I didn't have the strength to do what was the right thing for her. We will miss her love and zest for life.

A Dog's Plea

Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness then the loving heart of mine.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I might lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me learn.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when the sound of your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to the bitter elements. I ask no great glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.

Feed me clean food that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side and stand ready, willing and able to protect your life, should your life be in danger.

And, my friend, when I am very old and I no longer enjoy good health, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having any fun.

Please see to it that my life is taken gently. I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your hands.

-Author Unknown

TYLER TURNS 11!!

Wow! I can't believe how time flies. It seems like yesterday Heidi and I were carefully placing our bundle of joy in the back seat preparing to take her home. We were both truly amazed at her lung capacity at such an early age. The sound was nearly deafing for the 45 minute ride back home. We quickly found out that Tyler hated the car seat and for months, everytime she sat in it, she let us know how much. People would think we exaggerated until they had the opportunity to ride shotgun in the car.

Luckily, things have changed! The crying has turned into beautiful melodies as she sings with her favorite songs from the radio. She has been such a wonderful blessing in our lives. She is thoughtful, caring, appreciative, sensitive and full of life and energy. Thank you Tyler for being such a great girl! We appreciate all the love you have brought to our home.

Tyler was also lucky to have her grandmother and greatgrandmother visiting for her birthday this year. How many kids get to have that opportunity!

Kim's Ohio Visit in May

Just a few pictures of Kim's visit to the Ohio in May while Tyler and I were in Boston for the annual Ride for Research. Kim had the opportunity to escape Florida for a few days and decided to come and visit with Heidi.

Last Day of School!

Tyler and Jackson's last day of school was June 3rd. Tyler is moving on to 6th grade this fall at Orange Middle School. Jackson will be in third grade this year. They loved their teachers and classmates.

Tyler in her locker.

Tyler and her teachers.

Tyler's class.

Jackson and Mrs. Lilley.

Jackson's class playing a game - blind fold yourself and find your shoes in the pile of all the kid's shoes.

They also have a fantastic bus driver - "Mr. D." He is a gentle giant and really loves the kids.