Happy Anniversary, George!

Thirteen years ago today, George and I stood on the top floor of the Capitol and said things to each other that we were sincere about, but, like most newlyweds, we didn't really know the true meaning or value of them. Today, we know exactly what those words mean. I thank God every day that we found each other and for what He has given our family. I love you, George, and I can't wait to see what the next 13 years brings!

First Day of School

Last night, I took the kids swimming for one last "Hurrah!" before school starts.

They had a good time, but it was definitely shortened by the need to get all of their stuff ready for their backpacks. They both got a good night's sleep and were bright-eyed and excited this morning.

I can't believe that Megan is in the 7th grade and Danny is in 3rd! Time flies, kids grow, and I get older. Ugh!

Movin' on up

This morning, Daniel tested for his purple belt in karate. He was so excited, and a little nervous when we arrived, and because we were a little early, he got to try out some stretching techniques.

Then, it was time for the show to start. Sensei Morris began by reading off comments from parents and teachers about the students being promoted. At this time, he gave Daniel his academic patch for receiving straight A's at the end of this school year.

Demonstrations were next, and the kids all sat quietly watching as each group demonstrated, including the junior blackbelts led by Sensei Morris.

After the black belts, the lower belts demonstrated their forms together.

Belt presentation came last, with the kids ceremoniously placing the old in front of them and putting on the new.

Finally, pictures with the Senseis and food!

This is one happy kid!

We are so proud of you, Daniel! Keep up the great work!

Megan is beautiful

Last week, we had a date night where we ordered in Outback steaks, and the kids acted as our "servers," bringing us needed napkins and clearing our plates after we'd finished. It was so special, and even more special to me was that they dressed up for the occasion. Megan picked out an especially pretty outfit and I just had to take a picture of it.

She grows more beautiful every day, and I can't wait to see the woman she becomes. OK, I can wait, but I'm certainly interested. We have the best kids I could ask for!

An awesome end to the week!

At the end of the super-busy week at the Country Club summer camp last Friday, Danny decided to take off his shirt while swimming, and proceeded to acquire the worst sunburn in his 8 1/2 years. Therefore, this week was a quiet week for Danny, who spent a good part of it recovering from his sunburn that blistered and peeled.

He and Megan spent most of the week working around the house and hanging with Mommy and Daddy. He even missed karate practices on Tuesday and Wednesday as he couldn't wear a shirt.

Tonight, however, was a different story. The karate studio that Danny attends had a special guest. Bill "Superfoot" Wallace, a legend in the karate world, is best known for training Elvis Presley

and for being trainer and bodyguard to John Belushi, but has also starred in movies and retired undefeated in his class. He worked out with Chuck Norris and trained actors like Dolph Lundgren and Jean Claude Van Damme.  Tonight, however, he trained our future karate stars. Danny got to meet him before the session,

and then Mr. Wallace helped the kids stretch out a bit.

He asked the kids to pair off with another child similar in height, but the students were odd numbered, so Danny, who didn't have a partner, got to train with a sensei and Mr. Wallace himself! Superfoot even challenged Danny, saying...

"If you knock him over, I'll buy you a hamburger." The kids got some wonderful instruction on kicks tonight, and I know it is a night that Danny will never forget. He even got an autograph to remember the event.

Here are some more highlights of this wonderful end to the week!

"Watch the hair, Bill!"

"I could have blocked that kick..."

"Ah, but can you save your nose?"

What a guy! I think he has a room full of new fans. I certainly became one tonight, and I know Danny and Megan did too. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and it has rocked Danny's world! I can't wait to see what comes next!