Emily's First Day Of School

Today Was Emily's first day of school at St. Mark. She is in Mrs. Maupin's afternoon Kinder class and was very excited. We have had some separation problems with her in the past, the most notably being this summer at VBS. However, with her staying with my mom in the morning while Kathy is working in the school's kitchen twice a week, Emily seems to fair pretty well.

This is a milestone not only for her, but for us as a family. She is last of us to enter school (unless Kathy or I decide to take classes at EKU). "All out babies are in school."

Of all three, I think Emily is the best prepared and most advanced at this age. We thought Nicholas was a genius at four, but Emily, in keeping up with the other two is right up there.

Congrats to Emily! Have a great year!

Trailhead Cabin

Our main vacation this summer was to a friend's cabin at Cliffview Resort. We had a great time being together for a week! Just being able to relax, go fishing and not be on a schedule was terrific. The kids want it to be an annual thing. I'd like to do that as well. Check out some of the pictures.

Celebrating Memorial Day

My family celebrated Memorial Day yesterday by working in the yard, grilling and spending time together. We were thankful that we know no one fighting in the Middle East. I don't recall having any family who have died as a result of being in a war. We are very thankful.

I did spend some time ponderring how I would react if my son or daughters were killed while in the service. I know I cannot ever know the terrible loss a parent must feel when they lose a child - but it must be extremely horrendus.

Thank you to all those who have served and lived or given their lives for my freedom.

In the Sprinkler on Memorial Day

Emily in Spinkler


Rebecca chillin


Kiddos getting wet

Beer Can Chicken on Memorial Day 

Make a Wish! 

The Darth Cake 

Rebecca says, "Open Mine" 

Emily and Grandma (Gail) 

Rebecca 

Melissa, Alec and Uncle Randy 

Starting the opening 

Nicholas 9th Birthday

Nicholas celebrated his 9th birthday at home with family on April 30, 2005. His birthday, though is May 5th.

In attendance were his mom and me (Kathy and Darren), his sisters (Rebecca and Emily), Papa and Grandma (Charlie and Anne), Grandpa and Grandma (Bob and Gail), Uncle Randy and Aly, and Aunt Melissa and Alec.

The theme was "Star Wars" with a "dark side" cake from Dairy Queen.

We had cold cuts, snacks, chips, dip, etc.

Check out the pics. He got some really cool stuff.