Horseback Riding

Samantha asked to go horseback riding, as one of her birthday gifts, with her friends Kacy and Katie. The five of us had a wonderful time on the trail ride. It was a hot day, but so much fun. We are contemplating riding lessons for Samantha.  Maybe we'll look into a group lesson. :)

Samantha's 15th Birthday celebration

We celebrated Samantha's birthday with family on Saturday, the 29th. We had pizza, mac 'n cheese, and fruit salad as Samantha requested. Samantha's friends, Katie & Destiny were with us to celebrate too. The weather was perfect--Aidan, Sean & Hunter had a good time playing in the yard on the swingset-- and everyone had a great time.

Oil Portrait of Kara

We picked up a brochure earlier this year explaining how Michael's craft store contracts with artists who take a photo and turn it into an oil painting. We were very impressed with the paintings the store had on display. About a month ago, we decided to take one of our very favorite photos of Kara to the store. When we placed our order, we decided on the 20 x 26 size. We received a phone call today that the portrait was ready for us. We couldn't wait to see it. It is perfect. We think it's absolutely beautiful, and completely captures Kara's happy, smiley personality. The painting really shows the sparkle in Kara's eyes. The music room/Kara's room is now perfectly complete.

 

1st Camping Trip 2010

Our first camping trip this year turned out to be fun and relaxing. The weather was great too. The three of us, Leo, and Samantha's friend, Katie, went to Yogi Bear's Campground in Williamsport, MD.  Three other families we know were camping at Yogi this weekend too. Saturday night we planned a group seafood dinner/buffet. We all enjoyed fried oysters, mussels, boiled shrimp, crab legs, and grilled tilapia with fruit salsa. There were many tasty side dishes as well. It was all so delicious, and it was great to spend time with friends. We forgot to take pictures until the last minute this weekend, but managed to get a few.

My Mother's Day 2010

Today was my first Mother's Day to experience as a mother who has lost a child. It wasn't the same without Kara, but she was constantly thought of with love throughout the day.  The three of us went to church, and then out for a delicious brunch. Tim and Samantha made my day very special, and demonstrated their love for me in the ways that they do best.  Tim gave me several new charms for my Pandora charm bracelet. Notice the little angel to the left in the picture. This bracelet has charms that are little reminders of my Kara, and I love to wear it.  Samantha made me the most awesome gift. She started a scrapbook of Kara before the memorial service in January, and for Mother's Day she finished it for me! I took a picture of each of the beautiful pages Samantha worked so hard on, so that I could share the finished product with everyone.  As each May rolls around, and as every year passes, I will wish that Kara was with me.  I wish I could hold her, hug & kiss her, and show her how much I love her, and how grateful I am that God chose me to be her mother. Kara will always be in my heart, and I am so thankful that Tim and Samantha help to remind me of that.