Budzinski Family

Goodbye 2011, Hello 2012

2012-01-24T08:30:00.000-05:00

Ended 2011 in an amazing way, and started 2012 with a challenge! Day after Christmas, Gary, Daniel, my brother David, and I went to Ft. Lauderdale -- we had an awesome place right on the beach. Met up with Lizzy there, and had a great vacation... celebrated New Year's Eve, and ran along the beach, and saw Robin, Michelle and their beautiful family... Then, on New Year's Day, just before our plane home, Gary and I went for a "last run" in nice weather along the beach. Ran the whole 5 mile run and then crossed the street to get back to the hotel, and I missed a curb and WHAM... flew into the middle of the street and hit my ELBOW first -- full fledged SMASH... (don't worry, I tucked my iPhone in so I didn't hit it -- I was subconsciously worried about it because I took the case off before I ran so I could charge the case -- I really think that's why I smashed into my elbow vs my hand). As soon as I went down, I felt that familiar feeling -- like a 50 pound weight replaced my arm -- and I knew it was broken.

Off to the hospital FAST in such pain I thought I was going to black out. There they discovered that I broke my proximal humerus bone in two places, and had a small fracture in my elbow radial bone. They can only put your arm in a sling for however long it takes to heal and start PT at about 3-4 weeks (I start this week).

Was able to go on a Cruise the following weeks, although on pain pills the entire time. As frustrating as it was not to be able to do anything active, we LOVED the time with Tony and Jeannine, and it was awesome to be waited on hand and foot and NOT need to do any thing at all! Jeannine did my hair, and all I had to do with assistance was get dressed and sit around! My biggest challenge was walking with one arm in front of the broken one so no one bumped into it. Jeannine helped by calling out "BROKEN ARM COMING, BROKEN ARM COMING!!!!" which I found to be quite comforting!!! We made memories for a lifetime despite the sling!!!

Now it's recovery time. I have been entertained by my beautiful kids coming over, and Gary has taken me up north a few times. Still in a lot of pain and not going out unless absolutely necessary, but it is getting better every day! My beautiful friends have encouraged me with cards, notes, and Cory, Raquel, and of course my Mommy even brought over dinner --

I'm learning to chill and focus on the things I CAN do rather than what I can NOT do -- makes for a way better attitude and helps the whole process!

Know that 2012 is going to be an amazing year. I just have to begin it by knowing that whether I am going through "ups" or "downs" with the Lord at my side I am more than a conqueror through Him!

2011-07-14 Roma Day 3

2011-07-14T19:45:00.000-04:00

Another amazing day in Rome -- After another amazing Bible study by Hannah, had breakfast together at the hotel (they put us together in an "upper room" today!), then set off on foot to shop and stop and tour the area. We all split up in groups today. Walked down Via de Corsa and stopped at several stores and piazzas. Then met up with everyone at 2 at Trevi Fountain, and went to lunch at an amazing spighetti place. Went back to the hotel for a minute, then left again and went over the water to an area where not much was happening, so back to Via de Corsa. Met everyone at the Spanish Steps at 7, where we had an amazing dinner and goodbye celebration at a restaurant where they actually remembered Gary, me, Christa and Daniel from a few years ago!!! We then went back to Piazza Navone where the action was, and walked up and down and soaked in the amazing sights, sounds, and smells! Back to pack, to try to get ready for an early morning departure towards home!

2011-07-13 Roma Day 2

2011-07-14T02:41:00.000-04:00

Our second day in Rome! Had an amazing breakfast at our hotel, and then the excitement began. We waited and waited for our tour bus to come, but it couldn't get through our street because of the pedestrian area. After several phone calls and walking back and forth three blocks to find the tour bus, we finally connected an hour after the tour was supposed to start, only to find out our tour guide was MIA!!! We contacted the tour agency and after some sketchy Italian and English communications, we finally got a guide scheduled for after our Vatican tour. Off to the Vatican on our own to tour. Went to the Sistine Chapel. Went to St. Peter's, grabbed a panini at a roadside stand, and connected with Emmanuale, a FANTASTIC GUIDE, who took us through St. Peter's. We then went to the Colosseum and the Forum and through a large part of the city. Parted at 6:30 p.m., and then walked to a great spighettaria where we had dinner. Then walked the rest of the way back to our hotel, stopping at Piazza Navone on the way. Hung out there awhile, then went to the rooftop of the hotel to go over the amazing day...

Roma Day 1

2011-07-12T19:36:00.000-04:00

Went to the train station via water taxi and waited there awhile for our train. It was a little crazy when we got on the wrong car of the train and had to move quickly to go to the other side of the train, but we all got on the train in the end! We got to our amazing hotel in Rome right by the Pantheon -- then we walked to Trevi Fountain, where we had an amazing lunch panini at a great place there, followed by a gelato and a LOT of granitas (lemon slushes!)... it was about 95 degrees!!! Then we walked over by the water, where we shopped and took a ton of pictures. Then to Navone Piazza for a great dinner and then back to our hotel. We walked so much we were all exhausted!

Venezia Day Three

2011-07-11T17:18:00.000-04:00

We started out with an early Bible study by Gary, followed by breakfast at the hotel. Then off to Doge's Palace tour. It was amazing; we spent about 1.5 hours wandering around reading signs and exploring rooms. Then we went and caught a boat to Lido Island, where we ate lunch at a really good pizzeria there. After several slushes and waters, we made it to the beach. Mostly everyone went swimming, and a few people rented a boat with a slide to go in the sea with. Caught a boat back to Venezia, then a few people went shopping and others went to get ready for our gondola ride. Gary and I went and scoped out where we needed to check in. Went for the gondola ride, with Channel 2 catching up with us to take photos. The ride was so fun! Our music was incredible; the accordion playing and our comical singer almost falling out of the boat twice and getting hit in the head when he forgot to duck at a bridge (whether it was a joke or not is still up for debate! haha). Went to dinner at an amazing trattoria, then walked around as long as we could stay awake. Sat and listened to the bands playing in St. Mark's Square and drank a de-caf cappuccino. Came back and packed up to leave tomorrow...

2011-07-10 Venezia, Day Two

2011-07-10T17:41:00.000-04:00

Today we had a GREAT start with a pretty nice European-style breakfast at the hotel. We then went on a half day walking tour of Venice and learned a LOT about the city. We walked everywhere, rode a gondola across the canal, and ended our tour at the Jewish Ghetto here. We got a wonderful lunch at another Italian restaurant! complete with Tiramisu then walked back to the hotel and split up and every one did some shopping, napping, island hopping and whatever struck their fancy. Got back together for dinner, gelato and some fun, dancing, and walking around St. Mark's Square.

2011-07-09 Venezia!!!!

2011-07-09T17:54:00.001-04:00

Venice is AMAZING. Took the train first thing this morning from Torontola-Cortona train station, then took a second train from Florence to Venice. When we landed, coming by water taxi to our hotel was so impressive. It is a sight you just never forget. We walked until we were all ready to drop. Took loads of pictures. We shopped and looked around for awhile then headed back to the hotel to get things together for tomorrow!

2011-07-08 Ballooning and Bicycling in Tuscany!

2011-07-08T17:54:00.000-04:00

We got up soooooo early and made it to our hot air balloon ride! It was AMAZING to soar above the beautiful cities in Tuscany. We landed right near a huge sunflower field! We had an amazing lunch there after winding up the balloon, and then drove right back to be picked up for the bicycle tour! Everyone was EXHAUSTED and was SLEEPING trying to get l/2 hour rest in before the tour! We were SOOO tired, but the bicycle ride was AMAZING until Daniel got stung in the inside of his LIP by a WASP while riding his bike! Since he had previously had an allergic reaction to a wasp bite, we were really concerned (PLUS his growing lip wasn't looking good), but we thank GOD that it went down pretty fast and all we had was a benadryl. We had an amazing lunch overlooking the fields of Montisi, then learned about olive oil making and had an olive oil tasting! Back to Villa Scopetello to catch up and then out for an amazing dinner at DiFornello in Sinalunga. Then everyone packed and got ready for ANOTHER early start tomorrow to head to Venezia!

2011-07-07 Hiking in Cinque Terra

2011-07-08T02:31:00.000-04:00

We were up at the crack of dawn again to catch an early morning tour leaving from Florence. Got on the tour bus and headed to Cinque Terra, where we did the amazing hikes to the different villages there. The hike was pretty demanding and it was very hot, but the views made it all worthwhile! Swam in the Mediterranean Sea and had lunch there, and walked around and toured the area. Took a boat ride back, caught a train, jumped on the bus, and back to Florence. We had dinner at a cute little streetside trattoria, and then a few gelatos and back to Villa Scopetello at about 1 a.m.!!! Had to get to bed quickly because we had to get up at 4:30 a.m. the next day for the rescheduled balloon ride!!

2011-07-06 Cancelled Balloon Ride and Cooking Lesson!

2011-07-06T15:53:00.001-04:00

We got up VERY EARLY to get ready and get to the hot air balloon ride. We had quite a ride there, getting lost and going all over the place. Only to find out that the fog was too dense to go up in the air! A big disappointment, but we handled it well.

We went back to the Villa and back to bed! When we woke up we went to Sinalunga for lunch and found an amazing pizzeria. We finished lunch with a Nutella pizza! We then went back to the Villa to meet Elisa for our cooking lesson. The girls made an AMAZING dinner: summer minestrone soup, summer pepper soup with croutons, ricotta and spinach dumplings, homemade noodles tagliatelle and pesto, flourless chocolate cake and white chocolate mousse with peaches. The boys played tennis and hung out at the pool. They went and picked up a few groceries.

We got together and had an amazing dinner and fascinating discussion. It was unbelievable! Now we have to get some rest because tomorrow is going to be a long hiking day at Cinque Terra!~

2011-07-05 Monteriggioni, San Gimignano & Siena

2011-07-05T17:45:00.000-04:00

We had an amazing day. Started out with an INCREDIBLE family photo op now that Jesse and Amber are here. Great Bible study by Michael & Bethany on what God expects of US. Grabbed a fast breakfast here and then out the door to Monteriggioni. It was great to shop there, walk the wall a little, take some pictures and head out to San Gimignano. In San Gimignano we had lunch at an Osteria just inside the wall, split up and shopped and went to museums and then met back at the square. Then off to Siena. Siena was VERY challenging to find a parking space, and we ended up at the top of the hill driving into crowds on very narrow streets, and I have to say I was definitely riding the clutch with Gary's 9-passenger van behind me and the people and alley in front of me. We parked and enjoyed the entire rest of the day in Siena. Had a great dinner at a cute little Osteria, then back to our car to find TWO parking tickets each! We are going to work on getting off these, because we have NO IDEA why we have them!!! Came home and Hannah cut up a watermelon and we all hung out talking and eating watermelon, and now the boys are watching a movie!

2011-07-04 Fun in Montepulciano, Arezzo & Cortona

2011-07-04T20:10:00.001-04:00

What fun we had -- started out with breakfast in Sinalunga, then grocery shopping, then back to Villa Scopetello. We then headed out to Montepulciano, an old walled town. We bought some pottery pieces there, had a good lunch and toured the town It was awesome to drive up the hill in our 15-passenger truck -- hard to even pass a car since the roads are so narrow. It was VERY interesting when we ended up in a PIAZZA (square) where there were no cars allowed! ha! Gary did well backing up and getting back on the road again. Went to Arezzo, where we shopped down a few streets and walked around. Then off to Cortona for dinner and gelato. We got home really late (about 11 p.m.) and AMBER AND JESSE were there -- joining us for the rest of the trip!

2011-07-03 A Day in Florence

2011-07-03T17:05:00.000-04:00

We got up early, had an amazing Bible study on Faith by Danny and Lizzy, and then we headed out for Florence, about 1.25 hours away. We piled into the same van and hit the streets. Did a lot of bargain shopping, wheeling and dealing on prices, ate gelato and pizza, drank cappuccino and espresso, and had an all around amazing day. We went to several piazzas, Ponte Vecchio, and Michaelangelo piazza. We saw the Santa Dominica Church and went to the Accademia Museo to see the statue of David. Cruised home in time for a few of the guys to jump into the pool and watch a movie, while others read.

Salve Italia!

2011-07-02T16:19:00.000-04:00

After leaving at 7 p.m. July 1, at about 10 a.m. July 2 we landed in Roma, Italia! It is amazing here! We connected with Hannah and Gabriel at the airport and drove to get our rental cars. After an "authentic" Italian lunch, we drove to Villa Scopetello, our home for the week. It is an AMAZING place -- beautiful orchards of olive trees, flowers everywhere, grapevines, awesome outdoor pool (which Danny & Lizzy jumped right into WITH their clothes on IN the rain!!), beautiful arches, tennis court, and AMAZING spacious accommodations. We toured with the host, and then were treated to a wood-burned pizza party with SEVERAL different Italian pizzas. Drove into Lucignano for gelato and are now going to catch up on some sleep we missed in the plane! Buona notte!!!

Hiking at Bryce; Rappelling at Zion

2011-06-16T09:13:00.001-04:00

What an amazing few days we had hiking in Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park in Utah. Bryce is amazing -- you can't even imagine ever seeing anything like it and photos can't even capture the beauty. I felt it was like Sedona on steroids (and I LOVE Sedona!). The longer you hiked, the more amazing the canyons and sculpted rocks opened up. I will never forget this place and can't wait to come back!

Rappelling was CRAZY AWESOME. I was SO SCARED to back up over the ledge of an over 80-foot canyon. By the time I reached the bottom, it was so exhilarating I was shaking like a leaf from the excitement! By the time we did the third cliff, I was pushing off the edges and felt so much more in control! I am SO GLAD I didn't chicken out!!!

Viva Las Vegas!

2011-06-05T07:55:00.000-04:00

We went for a last minute trip to Las Vegas. It was so awesome that Pastors Jeff and Diana Budzinski invited Daniel to share his vision for Compassionate Touch International (http://www.compassionatetouchinternational.org) at their Church. Daniel had a great word for the congregation from Nehemiah and Ezra. It was a moving time at the altar making new commitments. Seeing Jeff and Daniel and Diana all ministering together was powerful.

We went to a very sad goodbye dinner for Gary given by a few of his HP friends and associates. It was very emotional for me to say goodbye to such wonderful people that have been such a huge and amazing part of our lives.

It was wonderful to be with Gary's parents and Jeff and Diana's family. We are so happy when we can see them and cherish any time we can spend with them!

A "Snow Wonderful" Day!

2011-01-12T22:56:00.000-05:00

Today started out with my Dentist appointment with the most beautiful, talented amazing Dentist around: Dr. Hannah Bahlhorn!!! Then, ice skating with my precious GREAT niece Maddie!

We had so much fun ice skating with Madeline! Even though she couldn't go outside Sunday and ice skate, we made up for it today! She LOVED putting the ice skates on and trying to skate, even though after awhile she said it was "too hard" and wanted to take them off and "try again later!" We then made chocolate chip cookies and had hot chocolate! There was a LOT of snow! We had a great time!

Happy Birthday Dear Brandon!

2011-01-12T01:53:00.000-05:00

Christa was a little freaked out that she wouldn't make it home in time for the party because we had SO MUCH SNOW and she was coming from working in Southfield! But she made it! And because of her EXTREME organizational skills, the tables were all set and her house all decorated, and everything all set for Brandon's birthday party! We had amazing food, and awesome company. We were sad that more people couldn't come because of the weather, but everyone who made it was GLAD they did!

Happy Birthday amazing Brandon! You are LOVED!!!!

Happy Birthday Dear Daddy!

2011-01-12T00:50:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to my amazing Dad! 83 years old. He is the most amazing person! He delights in his family. He has taught us that there is nothing more important than family -- SEMPRE FAMIGLIA! When I took him to lunch, he kept telling me what an amazing wife my Mom is -- he loves her so much! It was great to have my wonderful family over to celebrate my Dad!

2011-01-01 Cruising towards home...

2011-01-02T02:07:00.000-05:00

Started off the morning with another good (but a LITTLE bit later) workout, then went for breakfast. We got together for a Bible study, where Gary shared on loving your enemies from the "be-attitudes". Beginning in Matthew 5, Gary went through a lot of Scriptures which showed the importance of loving your enemies, and trusting God to handle any problems with people instead of handling them yourself.

Afterwards, we all packed up our stuff a little and got things ready for departure. We met for an amazing "Freedom Fest" dinner where everyone really lived it up! We then went to a last night show, which was the "grand finale" of shows (everyone except Danny -- he worked out instead!). There was a REALLY funny comedian and some acrobats and jugglers and stuff.

Then the boys went out for a late night pizza and the girls headed off to get a good night's rest!

2010-12-31 Cozumel, Dolphins, and New Year's Eve!

2011-01-01T02:56:00.000-05:00

Woke up early to do Bible study and work out, had breakfast and then met for Bible study (Daniel's turn). Danny spoke on things to leave behind: things to let die in 2010. He stated that we are set apart and sanctified, and there are things we need to DO in 2011, but also things we need to leave behind, and it is important that we seek God for which weights those are. Everyone's name should be safe in our mouth was one challenge: that we should never talk ill of any one. Romans 12.9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Romans 12.12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;…

Docked at Cozumel, and met tour for swimming with the dolphins. Off the ship, we were taxied to Chankanaab Park, where we snorkeled, hung out at the beach, had lunch, and then had our amazing swimming adventure with two dolphins, Foxy and Racquel. We did several maneuvers: we got to hug and kiss the dolphins, hold up a "target" in the air for them to hit; "shake" hands/fins; do a swim being pulled by two dolphins by holding their fins; and then do a "foot push" where they pushed your feet. It was incredibly awesome, and we all had so much fun! When they wanted too much for the photos, we walked away and said forget it, but I went back and negotiated a deal and was SO HAPPY we got the CD!

Back on the ship, we celebrated New Year's Eve in grand style at our table with decorations, singing, and fun. It was "Surf and Turf" theme and formal dress night for dinner. Afterwards, we got separated, but connected again and made it to play pinochle (Danny worked out and met us afterwards!). We got separated for a short while, but happily connected again and walked to the Promenade where we welcomed in the New Year with an amazing amount of people!

2010-12-30 Grand Cayman

2010-12-31T01:05:00.000-05:00

Worked out and ate breakfast, and then gathered for our Bible study, with Brandon leading. Brandon talked about unity, and the importance of being together with a family vision. He spoke about all of us together accomplishing a lot, but even more because we have unity. Together we can do amazing things. Brandon suggested we add a category to our yearly goals – that of a family goal. Then headed off the boat to beautiful Grand Cayman. Got a taxi to the 7 mile beach, and laid out, swam, and walked along the beach. Walked to lunch and shopped at a few local stores, and then headed back to the ship. Had a coffee with Gary, and walked around the Promenade. Met at 5 for pinochle with the girls, and then at 6 for dinner ("Venetian Fest" theme). Then went to a Broadway singing and dancing show at Acadia theater. The boys went to hang out and the girls were tired so we all went to sleep early!

2010-12-29 Jamaica -- yah, mon!

2010-12-30T01:05:00.000-05:00

After working out and eating breakfast, we all gathered for our Bible study, with Mike leading. He talked about God's vision for us and how He will get us there. Mike reminded us that we can't just focus on the vision instead of the daily necessities to get us to reach it. As we take the right steps, the next steps become clearer. When you first miss an exit, it is easy to get back, but if you go too far, it is very difficult to get back to where you missed it, so you need to be focused daily. We need to have the mind of Christ to make sure our daily walk brings us to the vision God has for us. Psalms 37:23-24 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.

Then off the boat to Jamaica (yah, mon). We took a Dunn River Falls tour, which was awesome. Everyone loved climbing the falls (except me; I stayed back and made friends and watched!). We went back to the ship, got a coffee, every one rested and got ready. Met at 5 to play Scrabble and pinochle, then we met for an amazing dinner at Chops. After that we went to the game room and had a pinochle tournament. Danny and I taught Mike to play pinochle too! It was a breeze, and in two hands, Mike was playing like a champ!

2010-12-28 Labadee, Haiti

2010-12-29T02:04:00.000-05:00

Another workout to start the day, followed by another good Bible study by Jesse on Ecclesiastes 5. We talked about how it is a life of sacrifice for eternal values that brings fruit and purpose. He talked about taking it to the next level and how it involves hearing from the Lord, making a commitment to action, and following through. Missing one of those things can result in meaninglessness. Ecc. 11.9 tells the young to enjoy every minute, but know you must give account, and ends with a threat of meaninglessness if you don't live purposefully. Don't wait for the perfect time to step out with what God wants you to do; the time is now. Pursue excellence and God's purpose and don't live to pursue wealth, because you will end up leaving the world naked and empty-handed. Ecclesiastes 5.7 tells us that "dreaming all the time instead of working is foolishness…"

After our Bible study, we grabbed a quick breakfast and then went off the ship to explore Labadee, Haiti. The vendors kept us entertained. It wasn't the greatest weather, with a slight drizzle at times. We walked around a bit, and then headed back to play more games on the 14th floor, have lunch, and then get ready for dinner. We met back for another quick game of Scrabble (Hannah and I), and then a few people played pinochle. We met for dinner, "Surf" theme, then went to an amazing magic/illusionist show. Then the boys went to watch a little football, and we all met up for 70's dancing in the streets night.

2010-12-27 Cruising...

2010-12-28T02:03:00.000-05:00

A welcome and uneventful day. We started out by working out, then with an amazing Bible study by Gabe about how we need to stand strong during times of shaking. We can't lose sight of the fact we're in a battle. We need to stay faithful through tests and trials and not lose sight of what God wants to accomplish through the trial and through us. We need to keep our eyes on the Lord. There are different seasons God wants to bring us through for our personal growth and His glory.

We then went outside to lay out but ended up on the 14th floor playing cards. We went to the salad bar for lunch, and then back to play more games. Dinner was formal night, with a "Captain's Gala" theme. Afterwards, we went to the Once Upon a Time Show where talented dancers and singers took old time stories and fairy tales and put modern music and dancing to them. It was really really good.

A Vacation Start We'll Never Forget -- ALMOST Home Alone!

2010-12-27T02:53:00.000-05:00

A day never to forget. A day of miracles. Just a LOT of big and little things that I KNOW would NEVER have happened without the Lord's intervention that made a huge mistake turn around.

Now that every one is married, we decided to make this our last Christmas vacation together and move our yearly vacation together to the summer. Our family departed for the airport at 5 a.m., all piling ourselves and luggage into a 12 passenger van from Frank's Airport Service. Daniel was so tired he wasn't talking much, and we all made sure he was in the van, or was he sleeping upstairs somewhere like Home Alone…

On the way to the airport, the rain began to turn into ice, and suddenly on the freeway there was a car just abandoned in the center lane. We were able to get over, but the car alongside us began to spin out.

God's Intervention #1 – the car spun toward the left, missing us, and JUST missing the people from the abandoned car that were standing on the side of the road.

We got to the airport and got our luggage checked. We were very blessed to get overweight luggage checked without incident, but I won't even mention that as God's intervention, although I believe it was!

God's Intervention #2 – we checked Daniel's bag in with ours just to simplify things, never knowing how it would come into play later! If Daniel had his bag with his name on it, we couldn't have taken it with us.

We all ended up joining Gary at his favorite Online Café for breakfast. Then we all headed to the gate because it was time to board, all stopping at bathrooms and stores to get water or whatever and arriving at the gate separately and boarding. Once we boarded, someone came and asked where Daniel was because he wasn't in his seat. The plane was overcrowded, and there were over 40 people that couldn't fly because it was oversold, and a plane had cancelled earlier. The line for help at the Delta desk was LONG and the Delta workers were crabby.

I went up and down the plane aisles looking for Daniel. The stewardesses told me I couldn't leave the plane, but they could see how upset I was and I explained the situation to them and they walked me to the end of the tarmac and paged Daniel. We called him over and over and over. No answer. The plane had to leave. We left without Daniel on the plane.

Daniel had gone to sit down without telling any one where he was (a few rows in at the gate) and had fallen FAST asleep unresponsive to calls and pages.

I was inconsolable. Gary was mad. We were all so sad. Once we got into the air, Gabe took charge, connected to wi-fi and began to communicate with Daniel, who had woken up 15 minutes after the plane left.

Meanwhile Daniel stood in line to get help, but it wasn't happening with all the people who needed help. He tried to tell the clerk what happened, but she abruptly informed him he would have to wait his turn and it wasn't Delta's responsibility that he fell asleep. He waited near the front, and she told him he was getting her nervous and to step away.

God's Intervention #3 - Out of nowhere a Delta representative came and told Daniel to come with her, and that she would help him. Others tried to follow her, but she said "I'm just going to help HIM".

For over an hour she worked on getting Daniel a plane out. She booked three separate reservations, two of which would never have worked because they were too far away, Gabe communicating back and forth mapquesting every choice and reviewing it with Danny…

God's Intervention #4 – She booked Daniel STANDBY on a Palm Beach plane that would get him to Palm Beach at 1:05 p.m., with a 2.5 hour drive to where our cruise departed…

God's Intervention #5 – She did not charge Daniel for the airfare.

Daniel waited and everyone boarded the plane. Another crabby clerk told him it looked like there would be no seats available.

God's Intervention #6 – After every one got on the plane, the surprised clerk told Daniel there was one seat left and he could get on the plane.

The plane was delayed because of ice. The plane was scheduled to get in at 1:45 p.m., making it almost impossible for Daniel to get to the cruise by the time the Homeland Security locked the entry doors (which is at 3:50 p.m., but they would let him in if he got there before 4).

Gabe had called several limo and driving services to pick Daniel up and make the 2.5 hour drive, but several companies would not do it. He finally talked to a company that would pick him up. We made the arrangements, but the guy wanted to be paid in cash, and Daniel had no cash on him (no clothes, and a debit card with not much money on it!). We told him he would have to make the 2.5 hour drive in 2.25 hours in order to get paid.

God's Intervention #7 – Daniel worked out a deal with a guy at the front of the plane who let him sit in his seat for the last 15 minutes so Daniel could get right off the plane. He jumped up and was first person out the door, flying through the airport and into the waiting driver's car.

Meanwhile we were checking with three different cruise personnel who informed us that under no uncertain terms would they let any one in after 4 p.m. because of Homeland Security laws and personnel.

Tracking Daniel, with Daniel looking at his GPS, we began to lose hope. We prayed together and separately, and asked several people at home to pray! We were so upset and nervous. He kept edging his driver on, telling him that his Dad would give him a great tip if he could get him there on time. The driver was going 90 miles an hour at some points trying to get Daniel there, but it was NOT looking good.

Gabe told Gary they had to "make friends" with the Homeland Security people. With all 10 of us huddling around and every one else on the ship already, a Royal Caribbean personnel told Gary and Gabe (standing off to to the side) that they would let Daniel in if it was just a minute or two late.

When it was 4:03 p.m., Gary and Gabe went down to where the door was (you couldn't use your phone there). Our group was asked to get on the boat because it was leaving. The girls were crying, and the boys were so sad…

God's Intervention #7 - A group of a few people were running towards the door, and the Homeland Security and RC personnel thought it was Daniel so opened the door and they came in, together with two children from a DIFFERENT group of people. Then a group of about 10 people rushed the door and because the children were from their group, the upset personnel had to let them in! In the confusion Daniel's driver literally screeched to a stop and Daniel BOLTED into the building and Gary ran out to pay the driver and got back in.

Never happened before? No problem to the Lord. It was really a miracle our family is all here together. There wasn't a possible way for it to happen, but I know the Lord made a way. I am amazed that Daniel is with us. It really shouldn't have happened. Another humbling gift of God's grace.

We all were so relieved the girls just broke down crying for joy. Daniel was incredulous. We were all emotionally exhausted! But we were together: the best Christmas gift of all, given to us supernaturally by the Lord!

We had a wonderful "Sail Away Dinner" together, then played Balderdash and games together.

2010-12-04 GREASE is the Word!

2010-12-05T01:33:00.000-05:00

We had a blast going to Grease at the Fox Theater. Michael and Shalene joined our family, and we dressed the parts. We had dinner at the Fox, followed by the play. It was a great night!

2010-12-03 Tea Party!

2010-12-04T02:52:00.000-05:00

Tea party at Grace Christian Church with our beautiful hostess Susan Monterosso. We had a wonderful evening, and it was great to see a lot of friends there.

Monday in Paris

2010-10-25T18:29:00.001-04:00

I had such a great day. I was pretty bummed Gary had to work today, but I got going with our (very) "continental" breakfast of yogurt and muesli and off I went. Walked to the Eiffel Tower and gazed at it with its changing-by-the-minute personality. Walked along the Seine River and took in every sight and sound: the boats going by, the birds, the lovers walking, children skipping and playing, autumn leaves blowing, people selling their wares, chestnuts roasting, horns honking... loving every minute. I feel like I jumped into a movie or something!

Then down the Champs-Elysées and loved stopping in all the stores and looking at all the people everywhere. Especially LOVED going to Laduree's and getting some macrons (HOPEFULLY they will make it home this time!). Then had an amazing lunch there.

Then I went to the Monet exhibition and waited over 45 minutes in line only to discover it would be another 3 hour wait, so I left, and walked all the way back down the Champs-Elysées on the OTHER side of the street, past the Eiffel Tower and to my hotel. Got ready, and then a driver picked me up and took me to meet Gary and his Paris team for dinner.

Another Wonderful Day in Paris!

2010-10-25T02:23:00.000-04:00

Well this was another great day in Paris, although we had a few little problems.

First we started out in the market, which was awesome:

Then we walked along the Seine River and stumbled upon the original Statue of Liberty!

Sadly, here I discovered I had left my Compact Flash card back at the hotel, and we were across town from the hotel! But I'm glad I had my iPhone!

We then headed to our tour of the top of the Eiffel Tower! We had JUST ENOUGH time that I thought I could make it back to the hotel and get my flash card for the camera for the incredible shots we would have from the top. Gary was going to wait by the Tower for me, because he was fighting off (another) horrible headache. As I rushed to go, because of the uneven streets, I went FLYING (in slow motion I might add), scratching up my elbow very badly (even through my coat), my knee, and my hands! I was SOOOO sad, but rushed back to the hotel and got my card.

We were so happy we booked online, because we went right to the front of a VERY LONG line!

Then to a wonderful little cafe for lunch, and off to the Champs Elysées to go up and down the wonderful shopping areas. Find of the day is what people describe as: If you’ve spent even a small amount of time in Paris, you know that the macaron is ubiquitous. And in a city of fastidious eaters, it’s significant that a single dessert has managed to win the hearts and minds of so many.

Laduree macrons: WOW!

At first we were asking ourselves: WHY are we waiting for 40 minutes in this line for these little cookies that don't even look that amazing? Well, Paris IS famous for them, so we determined to wait for the fun of it and get some to take home. INSTEAD, we devoured ALL of them on the street in FRONT of the store! ha! They were AMAZING!!!! Maybe I'll go back today and try to get some triple-wrapped so I don't eat them all! It is said this should be on a list of 100 things to do before you die: eat an authentic Laduree macron! How can something so petit pack so much PUNCH in a few bites?! Only in Paris!

We then stumbled upon a movie theater and went to see Facebook together. Having met Mark Zuckerberg personally, I had a little bit of a hard time identifying with the impertinent brash personality portrayed in the movie, but then again, he IS brilliant, and maybe several years ago he may have come off that way. Now he is an amazing and pretty humble guy to meet.

We then trucked back across town towards the Eiffel Tower and stopped for a charming late night salad with the rest of the Parisians (everyone seems to eat late here!).

Magnifique!

Autumn in Paris

2010-10-24T02:29:00.000-04:00

Paris is amazing. I was last here in about 1982 as a newlywed. It had a profound effect on me then, and it does again.

People line the streets holding hands and kissing... I don't know why but couples getting photos in front of the Eiffel Tower LOVE to kiss! The streets are filled with little patisseries and chocolatiers and restaurants/cafes with outdoor tables. Couples are sharing crepes, laughing over coffees, and walking with their heads together whispering...

The Seine River is lined on both sides with people walking. Children are laughing, and teenaged girls walk arm and arm with a bounce to their step. The metro is packed with people standing jammed. No one seems in a hurry enough to push you aside, and it seems as if people just enjoy the simplier things of life here... like each other!

Walking down the Champs-Elysées is such an awesome experience. People are in and out of the stores. With the obelisk at one end, and the Arc de Triomph presiding other the other end, trees lining the avenue, and the stores and restaurants on both sides with their up to the minute fashion, you can see why Paris is known for some of the best shopping in the world!

The Eiffel Tower looms over the city and from time to time, wherever you are, you catch a glimpse of it. There are French flags flying here and there. Occasionally you run across several policemen or military, and we walked quickly past a growing demonstration about something or other that was getting unruly, but all in all the feeling here is of peace and simplicity.

Even walking around in the rain is amazing. Today was the perfect day: their typical (sparse) breakfast of yogurt and a few slices of turkey (Gary had the muesli), then off on the metro across town to see St. Michael's and Notre Dame. It was POURING RAIN, but with our umbrellas we just joined the crowds walking the streets!

After walking around Notre Dame and the square of beautiful buildings there, we stopped for a sidewalk Nutella crepe and coffee. More walking and sightseeing, and then a lunch of a chicken sandwich (everything is on French bread!) for Gary and a salad for me. We then hopped back on the Metro to make our way to Champs-Elysées and sightseeing there.

We walked the streets for several hours, walking by the Louvre and through center city, and then made it to our Paris in Lights nighttime tour. We discovered we were supposed to have eaten, so we quickly each grabbed a chicken sandwich on French bread, and we jumped onto the bus.

The bus took us to the Eiffel Tower, where we went to the second floor and took photos and had a quick sparkling water and some "sweet" popcorn (kettle corn!). We walked around the Eiffel Tower for an hour, and then met dockside at the Seine River for our boat tour. After the boat tour (which was awesome) we walked back to our hotel, stopping on the way home for a little fruit salad (and Gary got escargots and oysters!).

We were gone from 7:30 a.m. til 11:30 p.m. It was an amazing day in Paris!

Portovenere, Italy

2010-10-16T05:00:00.000-04:00

Finally got here! Started out yesterday afternoon from home. When our plane landed in Amsterdam, we missed the connection! So we put our luggage up and hit a train to Centre City and had a blast walking around. Went back and got to Italy about 10 and drove to our hotel -- got here after midnight. I was so glad to have our GPS with Italy maps -- it brought us right to our door in an otherwise VERY CONFUSING country to drive in! We drove through a thunderstorm, but we're finally here and happy to be here! Gary is fighting a TERRIBLE headache, and I drank too much coffee to sleep (almost 3 a.m. here!)

Another Pie Making Day!

2010-10-11T02:36:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful day! After an amazing Church service, and a run outside in almost 80-degree weather, the girls came by to make apple pies. Before they got there, I managed to whip up a pumpkin pie at Daniel's request! Here are the finished products:

Apple Pies!

2010-10-02T02:21:00.000-04:00

Love making apple pies! It is so fun getting together and "teaching" and having fun with the girls baking! Kristen is here for the weekend -- I LOVE when she visits. Rachel took time off her busy studying schedule to come out and be with me and make a pie too! We had a lot of fun. Afterwards we went for a walk at Partridge Creek with Gary, Christa, Bethany and Honey!!! Christa even brought Kristen, Gary and I dinner -- with all that baking we forgot about dinner!

A Walk in the Park...

2010-08-12T09:33:00.000-04:00

Well, some people get grandchildren when their children get married, but I got a dog. Bethany and I took Honey on her first "nature walk" at Stoney Creek. Although it was 92 degrees and humid, and we walked for an hour and a half, Honey really tried to keep up, but she kept trying to take breaks! She was so funny!

Another day, another walk...

2010-08-10T21:35:00.000-04:00

Today I had a great day with my parents (but I forgot to take a photo :-( ) -- I visited for awhile and then went to a HEALTHY lunch at Friar Tucks...

Then another walk, another 92 degree humid day, this time on Clinton River and Paint Creek trails... Another repeat, but this time Honey was more adamant about not moving -- she was EXHAUSTED (but so were Bethany and I!) But this time we found a creek to give her a break in...

Happy Birthday to Hannah!

2010-08-10T01:30:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to beautiful Hannah! We had our family birthday dinner, and what did Hannah want for her 25th? A HEALTHY grilled chicken and veggie menu, no dessert, but TCBY!!!! Hannah is an amazing daughter, dentist, granddaughter, sister, friend, wife, and ANYTHING she puts her hand to she does it with all her might. We are so blessed to have her in our family!

Tel Aviv, Israel

2010-05-07T01:16:00.000-04:00

Israel was amazing. How can I be walking where Jesus walked?! It is thrilling. Although there are armed soldiers everywhere and obvious divisions in spiritual thought, the reality is there: Jesus died, was buried, and ROSE AGAIN here! Regardless of what everyone thinks, reality screams loudest here! Jesus is ALIVE and well, and unimpeded by schools of thought, however radical they may be!

2010-05-03 Wonderful Day Exploring Istanbul, Turkey

2010-05-04T02:30:00.000-04:00

I went EVERYWHERE today: saw Sultan's palaces, famous Blue Mosque, everyday life in Istanbul, museums, parks, shopping areas, ancient cisterns, and government buildings. Saw the beautiful City from a hilltop for an amazing multi-course Turkish dinner with Gary's team, a great group of people. I was honored to have a tour guide show me the city. I was able to see Joseph's turban!, David's sword!, and even the skull and arm bone of John the Baptist. My day put history into a new perspective for me. I realized how important a city Istanbul is, being on the straight...

The Bosphorus or Bosporus also known as the Istanbul Strait is a strait that forms part of the boundary between Europe and Asia. It is one of the Turkish Straits, along with the Dardanelles. The world's narrowest strait used for international navigation, it connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara (which is connected by the Dardanelles to the Aegean Sea, and thereby to the Mediterranean Sea). It is approximately 30 km (19 mi) long, with a maximum width of 3,700 m (12,139 ft) at the northern entrance, and a minimum width of 700 m (2,297 ft) between Kandilli and Aşiyan; and 750 m (2,461 ft) between Anadoluhisarı and Rumelihisarı. The depth varies from 36 to 124 m (118 to 407 ft) in midstream. The shores of the strait are heavily populated as the city of Istanbul (with a metropolitan area in excess of 11 million inhabitants) straddles it.

2010-05-02 Arrivederci to Italy and Flying Out to Turkey...

2010-05-02T17:30:00.000-04:00

Today was a sad day. I was really crying to say goodbye to Laurie and Mike and the awesome memories we shared! We got up early and headed to the airport. Took a short flight to Roma from Palermo, then we grabbed our baggage and headed to our separate terminals: Laurie and Michael to Michigan, and Gary and I to Istanbul, Turkey. Arrived in Istanbul, and was greeted by a member of Gary's wonderful team. Checked into our hotel, and then toured around a little bit. Walked all over the city: it was PACKED with THOUSANDS of people picnicking and barbequeing and shopping...

We then went to an amazing restaurant that had Turkish food -- it was soooooo good! It was on the order of Lebanese food -- so fresh and wonderful! I LOVED it!

2010-05-01 Another day exploring near Terrasini

2010-05-02T02:26:00.000-04:00

Today we drove through Capaci and then went for a visit to Carini, Mrs. Carollo's family's home town. We talked to some people in the town, and looked around quite a bit. Stopped for coffee. Then we went back to the hotel for lunch, and headed out for Palermo. We shopped and looked around Palermo, and walked all over the place. We then went to Terrasini and watched a gorgeous sunset. We found an amazing restaurant, Casablanca, which was run by a husband/wife/daughter team. The husband did the bookwork, the wife did all the cooking and serving, and the daughter just brought us the bill! We trusted the cook to prepare a "special dinner" for us, and although it was different than what we would have ordered, it was amazing! It was a fantastic last evening together in Sicily. We finished up with Euchre, and then packed up so we could get up early to leave the next morning.

Bei ricordi insieme che non sarà mai dimenticata ...

(Wonderful memories together that will never be forgotten!)

2010-04-30 Touring Little Cities in Italy

2010-05-01T02:23:00.000-04:00

Toured to the cute little town of San Vito la Capo, driving through Belestrate on the way. San Vito la Capo was gorgeous... the beach was amazing. We walked around the town, stopped for some coffee, and headed back to our hotel for dinner. Then we played cards on the main floor of our hotel. Another picture perfect day...

2010-04-29 Terrasini, Sicily, Italy

2010-04-30T02:13:00.000-04:00

Had a long drive to Terrasini, stopping at Erice on the way. Erice was an amazing town... we took a cable car up past the clouds into the town and walked around the castle. It was really amazing! We had a great day there, and then to Citte del Mare, an amazing hotel. We walked around the hotel for awhile then played cards! Fun!

2010-04-28 Agrigento, Sicily, Italy

2010-04-29T02:08:00.000-04:00

Headed over to Agrigento today, the home of our ancestors! It was a cute little town resembling a little Wildwood! Called a few relatives... Looked around town, then went out for dinner and played more cards!

2010-04-27 Isola Bella

2010-04-28T02:57:00.000-04:00

We had a great time touring Isola Bella and the surrounding area today. We went on a boat ride into the Blue Grotto, and had an amazing lunch at a little roadside diner. Back to the hotel and got cleaned up, and then out on the town for an amazing dinner, with gelato and more cards!

2010-04-26 A Hike Up Mt. Etna

2010-04-26T18:29:00.000-04:00

We went up to the top of Mt. Etna, Sicily's active volcano, today. We had a great time exploring there. We couldn't believe how cold it was -- we were freezing! It was a great time though. We stopped on the way back at a place where they made their own honey. Then home, clean up, take a walk down to Isabella, and then out to eat dinner. Back for Euchre!

2010-04-25 Touring Taormina

2010-04-25T17:30:00.000-04:00

Today we went all over Taormina. Starting out early in the morning, we traveled to the ruins of the Greek amphitheater and to Castlemora, and then all over town. It was gorgeous and fun. The day went by quickly. We came back to the room, threw on fresh clothes and got cleaned up and then went out again for a fantastic fish dinner and to walk the streets of the cute little city.

Finished off with a game of Euchre -- girls won this time!

2010-04-24 Travel to Taormina, Sicily, Italy

2010-04-24T18:30:00.001-04:00

We had a great trip to Taormina, Sicily. Hit a few road bumps with oversized luggage and not a large enough car, but ironed out the details and we were off and running, with Gary taking the lead with a mini-van with a four speed. The hills are CRAZY here, and our hotel is up on a CLIFF overlooking the city. It was SCARY driving up the cliffs, in the little villages and towns. The street signs are everywhere and you have to react quickly to get on the right track, but we did!

We wandered around town quite a bit, shopping and going out for dinner. Then home to get cleaned up, played some cards, and back out on the town. It was a great first day in Sicily!

2010-04-23 Our Last Day Exploring Roma

2010-04-23T17:26:00.000-04:00

Laurie, Mike, Gary and I had a great time today, starting with Nino's superb tour of the Colosseum and St. Peters, amongst other places, and then our continuation of the tour with museums, government offices and street shopping. Even though it poured all day, we were not to be deterred, but kept our pace steadfastly. It was an amazing day! Benessimo!

2010-04-22 Fun with the Piccolos in Roma

2010-04-22T16:07:00.000-04:00

It was great to see Laurie and Michael pull in about 9:45 a.m. We went and had breakfast and then they had a rest while Gary and I looked around town. Then we came back and picked them up at 2 p.m. and went NON-STOP all day just sightseeing and shopping. We ended the night with an awesome dinner at Navone Notte near the Navone Piazza.

Che divertimento! Sono così felice che sono qui! (What fun! I am so glad they are here!)

2010-04-21 From Milano to Roma

2010-04-22T02:36:00.000-04:00

Had a really nice train ride from Milan to Rome. When we landed, went to Daniels hotel, where the entire staff remembered us! They were so happy to see us; it was very nice! Then we walked the streets and went to another amazing Italian restaurant for dinner, then back to the streets. Of course, Gary had a double espresso (HOW does he SLEEP after that??!!) and we both had gelato! Walked the Spanish steps and through the many amazing streets. Io amo l'Italia! Pronti a partire tour!

Touring Milano with Lut!

2010-04-20T19:10:00.000-04:00

Lut and I are like two old friends... we have so much in common and get along so well. It was great to tour Milan with her. We met at 9:00 a.m. for breakfast in the hotel, and then took a few underground trains to get to Milan. From start to finish it was an amazing day. We purchased a tour guide and map and managed to see everything in the guide in ONE day PLUS some more things! We had a great time shopping, although neither of us bought anything! We had lunch together, a fresh squeezed orange juice, and then headed back to the hotel.

At night, we all went to an amazing team dinner at a famous Italian restaurant. We had a seven course meal that was simply fantastic!

Benissimo!

Touring with Lut on last FULL day in Milano

2010-04-20T19:04:00.000-04:00

Lut and I started even earlier today - 8:30 a.m.! We met for a quick breakfast and then off we went on the underground to Milan center city. The soccer game is tonight - Barcelona v Milan - so there were soccer players and newscasters everywhere!

We shopped and toured the city again. We had a nice lunch overlooking the Duomo Plaza. Then we headed back for a sparkling water in the hotel lobby while we waited for Johan and Gary to return.

Lut and Johan left to drive to Brussels, and Gary and I met So King for another incredible evening out at Antico Albergo. This Italian restaurant on a quaint little one way street typical of the area was beyond belief. We started out with an artichoke salad, paste pesto, and topped it off with espresso, chocolate souffle and pistachio gelato! Lo amo Italia!

Milano, Italia!

2010-04-19T02:14:00.000-04:00

I MUST be Italian because as soon as I hit Italy, I am so GLAD! I LOVE Italy! The sights, sounds, people -- BELLISSIMO -- everywhere you look... and the people... of course, sorprendente!!!

Gary and I toured Milan -- saw the cathedrals, amazing winding streets, shops, people... ahhh... Italy, "Come sei bella"!

Gary and I had an amazing Italian lunch -- bring on the grilled vegetables and fresh fruit! Had an amazing gelato -- there isn't ANY gelato that is NOT amazing here... and got chestnuts roasted on the street. With the musicians playing, we strolled all day until Gary's feet were falling off, then we returned via the 3-exchange train ride back to the hotel.

At night, we went to a nearby Italian restaurant and had some amazing risotto -- again -- La sua una buona cena (it's a good dinner!).

Camping Fun for Gary's Birthday Weekend

2009-08-31T14:19:00.000-04:00

It was so much fun to camp together. We literally THREW the weekend together at the last minute, cancelled it, and then re-instated it. It is really an "updated version" of our old time camping days. Old days we set up a minimum of five tents, made all our own meals, and just plain got grungy, soaking wet, and poison-ivy'd for a week (or sometimes even two) at a time!

NOW, our "updated version" includes going to Bally's to work out and get ready, a Starbucks coffee, shopping AFTER we get there, and going out to eat! Although we keep the hobo pies around (thanks to Gary's efforts), the s'mores, and coffee and hot chocolate and snacks there, the rest of it is really minimum work. Also, it IS a relief to sleep on cots instead of on the floor!

Although I really miss the old days with all the extraordinary efforts, it IS a relief to be able to just throw a weekend together and still feel we have the "camping experience". Also, we had to rent a trailer because we sold our mega-trailer that we used to use to haul all our equipment.

Everyone made it up except Danny...

It was awesome to have everyone together and enjoying "semi-camping" together.

After the rain finally stopped, we played tennis, football, kickball (and Russell literally got KNOCKED OUT and had to go to the hospital to see if his jaw was broken), rode bikes, sang, did our Bible studies by the fire (awesome), played board games, read books, and just kicked around doing nothing together.

A mini-vacation -- just enough to add a few more awesome memories to our summer...

Double Wedding Day

2009-08-07T06:42:00.000-04:00

“BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, to be envied) is everyone who fears, reveres, and worships the Lord, who walks in His ways and lives according to His commandments. For you shall eat [the fruit] of the labor of your hands; happy (blessed, fortunate, enviable) shall you be, and it shall be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the innermost parts of your house; your children shall be like olive plants round about your table. Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who reverently and worshipfully fears the Lord. May the Lord bless you out of Zion [His sanctuary], and may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life;”
(Psa 128:0-5 AMP)

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.”
(John 12:24 KJVS)

These two verses keep going over and over in my mind as we celebrate TWO MORE weddings!

*The sacrifices made to raise a family requires a lot of work. But Psalm 128 tells us we will enjoy the fruit of our labors. I am truly enjoying the fruit of our labors. And yes, what my Dad told me is so true: my children have given me so much more than I have ever given them.

*So many times my husband and I "died to our selves" to raise a family. But look at the fruit of it!

My girls are marrying two young men that will continue to love them and cherish them the way they have been loved and cherished at home. Both Gabriel and Michael love the Lord with all their hearts and will lead their homes the same way. Both young men have been truly hand-picked by God to be our sons and the husbands to our amazing daughters.

Last year when Jesse and Amber were married we felt the same way. Now, I can't even IMAGINE our family without Amber in it! Because God is sooooo faithful. The fruit that came from us living the way He instructed us to for real joy.

Today I am so happy and excited for Gabriel and Hannah, and Michael and Bethany! They are going to have an amazing day! What a privilege to be their Mom.

Christa and Brandon's Big Day!

2009-06-13T02:30:00.000-04:00

When Christa set out for work on Friday, little did she know what was in store. As soon as she left, Kristen and I sprang into action, and began cooking for a surprise engagement party to be held later that evening. Decorations came flying out from hidden places, as we scurried about all day getting things ready. Paula, Brandon's mom, came over and helped, and together we all began creating a masquerade themed party that Christa would never forget.

Brandon took Christa to an ice rink, where he rented out the entire rink. When Christa wondered why no one was skating, he just said because it was June and it's not too busy, and she thought that was a reasonable explanation so still didn't have a clue! Then he played a special song he wrote for her that he had pre-setup at the rink. She was so surprised, because he had been writing the song for some time.

When Brandon got down on one knee in the middle of the rink, though, Christa knew this was not just an ordinary day.

Brandon called me in from the parking lot, where I was waiting with camera in hand. After snapping a few pictures, I went back to the party, and Christa & Brandon went to Mike's house to get ready for the party.

We had an amazing party, with awesome tributes to Christa and Brandon given throughout the evening. An incredible menu and theme (masquerade), with Brandon's and Christa's family all there...

What an amazing night to remember!

To see ALL the pictures, click here

Beautiful Almost Summer Day!

2009-06-10T22:30:00.000-04:00

Today was such a great day! Started off just hanging around with Andrew (who spent the night after Danny's Wings party last night) and Bethany. Then went on an apx. 20-mile bike ride with Julie --

Did a bunch of chores, then off to grocery shop. When I came home, everyone was there hanging out, and Jesse was over getting his haircut. Made a quick dinner, and even Gary showed up!

Now just hanging around with Bethany & Christa.

Love having a houseful of wonderful people to hang around with! I am soaking up every minute!

30th Carollo-Girgenti Family Picnic

2009-06-07T08:45:00.000-04:00

It was an amazing day, start to finish (actually even BEFORE the start!). BEFORE the start, the guys on our "team" all drove to Harsen's Friday night to get everything ready for the big "PAJAMA party" (that was Mike Picc, Gary, Stephen & Michael). Of course, they always end up having their own party!

Then first thing Saturday morning, up and attem to get to the picnic as early as possible. It was weird for me to be driving my vette alone, but I happenstanced upon Laurie with Mikey & Rachel driving alongside me and I grabbed Rachel for my ride too!

Breakfast was cinnamon roll French toast, fruit, Laurie's homemade granola, Nina's incredible Martha Stewart Coffee-cupcakes, eggs, toast, and cereal. Every family had a "photo opportunity" for our scrapbook. We had a contest for the best outfit fitting the theme.

Throughout the day there was awesome friendship, fellowship, and fun. We had a DVD of THIRTY YEARS of memory videos playing at two places throughout the day (thanks to Robert & his EXCELLENT editing skills!) The DVD was amazing, and we were able to relive some epoch moments with five sets of grandparents who are no longer with us, and with Mr. Carollo -- hearing his voice and seeing him putting his heart into our picnic boostered our coming together even more...

We missed several people who couldn't be there because of illness or distance, and it made us realize how precious each time we get together really is...

We played some fun games within the theme: volleyball with a balloon and sheet and teams; sleeping bag relay races; and a dessert contest.

Special guest appearance with Robin and Michelle bringing Bryson from Florida -- everyone was thrilled to meet him! And when Renee and Brandon drove from Chicago, it was such a special surprise to see them!

Dinner was amazing: mahi-mahi (caught by the men who do the annual fishing trip!), filets, portabella mushrooms grilled, sweet and regular potato bar, four choices of incredible salads, and on and on...

It was a pretty amazing day. I have received texts already thanking our group for an amazing day (how special). It was a day full of memories -- memories that will last a lifetime and go in the family album and in our hearts to make us realize that we have something so very very special: families that have been with each other from infancy, involved in our families' good times and bad, caring for each others' children and supporting each other throughout LIFETIMES.

Carollo and Girgenti families!!!! To order pictures, add your own or comment, go to: Family Picnic Pics on Shutterfly

For more pictures see: Family Pictures 1

and see: Family Pictures 2

Family Picnic Ahead!

2009-06-05T08:22:00.001-04:00

Today is going to be a busy day getting ready for the THIRTIETH ANNUAL Carollo-Girgenti Family Picnic tomorrow! I love working with our group - we have so much fun planning the picnic! Can't wait!

Matt's Grad Party

2009-05-31T07:39:00.000-04:00

Had a great day yesterday, first scrapbooking with Christa at Jan's, then to Matt's graduation party. It was great to see so many friends and family there! Afterwards, went home and hung out with the family for awhile.

Remembering Candace Lee

2009-05-28T07:50:00.000-04:00

Today is a very sad day. I will be attending the funeral of a brave young lady, a classmate of Bethany's, who died. All her life she had problems with her heart. Upon speaking to her on occasion at her home, her attitude was always to celebrate what she COULD do; she never focused on what she couldn't do.

2 Corinthians 4.17-5.8 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

I sorrow with the Lee family through a loss that I can't even imagine. A music note has gone from their home. My Dad always told me that when you're young, you can't even imagine WHY you would ever want to leave this earth and go to heaven. But as you get older, and more of your loved ones go before you, you long for the day to be reunited for eternity. The Lee family has a piece of their heart and home with Jesus now, and another reason to know that we pilgrims on this earth. We will see Candace again! We sorrow, but NOT as those who do not know and hold this hope as the anchor of our souls.

May Candace's life inspire all of us to live every day of our lives, and to make today count: don't wait for tomorrow to live the plan God has for you today!

Tour of Italy

2009-04-22T06:08:00.000-04:00

It has been an amazing few days here. Started off in Rome touring all amazing places like where Peter & Paul walked, the Colaseum where gladiators fought and Christians were martyred. Stood where Julius Caesar stood and where Mussolini spoke. Was at Trevi Fountain where Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn made Roman Holiday.

Pasta is the dish of choice here, or grilled fish, although any fish you THINK you know what it is, be ready for some surprises!

Went to Venice and toured the canals, walking from daybreak til after dark!!!

Now onto Stressa!

Truth Project and Christmas Tree Decorations!

2008-12-01T00:07:00.000-05:00

Today Gary and I went shopping for Christmas Tree decorations. While we were shopping, it started POURING down snow! The snow was as big as quarters! Then today was the Truth Project. Before hand, Amber, Hannah, Bethany, Christa and I worked together to make an amazing dinner of wedding soup, fruit salad, and quiche. We had a great day together!

Financial Seminar and to the Carollos

2008-11-30T00:01:00.000-05:00

We had an incredible Financial Seminar, thanks to Asaad Faraj, Matt Wandrie, Mike Skupin, and Ed Murray. Everyone learned a LOT, including me! I am excited to repeat it again soon. It was truly a blessing, and I am grateful that these gentlemen volunteered their time and expertise to help others!

Then we went to the Carollos for a night out with the Mallinos and Carollos. We have been getting together several times a year (taking turn at each other's houses) for over 24 years now! To have friends that stick with you for that long is such a blessing! Especially putting up with our schedules!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T23:56:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving at my parents' home! There aren't any people I'd rather be with than my amazing family. We were very entertained by Scarlett, Juliette, and Madeline this year! The food was terrific, but the company was even better!

Turkey Trot!

2008-11-27T23:48:00.000-05:00

Gary, me, Jesse, Amber, Gabe, Hannah, Mike, Bethany, Christa, Brandon, Daniel, Emily, my sisters Laurie and Diane, my nieces Shalene and Rachel, and my nephew Michael, and Greg Fisher, Greg Moon, and Jacklyn all went downtown to run the Turkey Trot, a 6.2 mile run before the Parade. It was SO MUCH FUN! The weather was the best in four years. The run was long enough to be challenging, and short enough to stay FUN!

Alzheimer's Charity and Rachel's Sweet 16 Birthday Party

2008-11-24T08:41:00.000-05:00

We had a great time learning about Alzheimer's Disease at the Ritz Carlton in Dearborn, then going to Rachel's Sweet 16 Birthday Party. If any one is SWEET 16, it's RACHEL!!!!

Joey and Katie's Wedding!

2008-11-23T02:36:00.000-05:00

Jesse and Amber and Gary and I went to Joey and Katie's wedding at Inn of St. John's in Plymouth. It was a beautiful wedding. it was wonderful to see all of Gary's family - we rarely get to see them and they are such special people!

Working at Mike and Bethany's - a Family Affair!

2008-11-21T20:20:00.000-05:00

It has been amazing seeing Mike and Bethany's new home transforming before our eyes! It certainly promises to be amazing! And now my AMAZING cousin is going to do the hardwood floors -- he is a MASTER at doing them -- this is getting exciting!

Busy Working with my Brother!

2008-11-20T00:00:00.000-05:00

I LOVE my little brother! He has been helping me the last two days at Bethany and Mike's new house. He got MORE WORK DONE in two days than most people finish in a WEEK! I have enjoyed every minute of being with him too. I am always a better person after I hang out with him -- he is so amazing. His philosophies on life are so wise and godly. I am very blessed to have him as my brother!

Capping off the weekend

2008-11-17T00:21:00.000-05:00

Today was wonderful, Despite hardly being able to move after hardly being able to move after the Tae-Bo workout, AND with a horrible toothache which Hannah diagnosed as me grinding a hole through a crown.

Highlights of today:

*Community Christian Church, Pastor Tony, had another amazing Word about Remembering what God has done in our lives and knowing there is a shaking of this earth and we need to turn to Him and let Him do a work in our lives! I had to order the tape so I can hear it again (you can hear it on the website in about a week or so!) “Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? And how do you see it now? Is not this in your sight as nothing in comparison to that? Yet now be strong, alert, and courageous, O Zerubbabel, says the Lord; be strong, alert, and courageous, O Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest; and be strong, alert, and courageous, all you people of the land, says the Lord, and work! For I am with you, says the Lord of hosts. According to the promise that I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt, so My Spirit stands and abides in the midst of you; fear not. For thus says the Lord of hosts: Yet once more, in a little while, I will shake and make tremble the [starry] heavens, the earth, the sea, and the dry land; And I will shake all nations and the desire and the precious things of all nations shall come in, and I will fill this house with splendor, says the Lord of hosts. The silver is Mine and the gold is Mine, says the Lord of hosts. The latter glory of this house [with its successor, to which Jesus came] shall be greater than the former, says the Lord of hosts; and in this place will I give peace and prosperity, says the Lord of hosts.” (Hag 2:3-9 AMP)

*Got Jesse and Amber's video back from their wedding, and just a quick glance through it made me SO EMOTIONAL because it was so AMAZING!!!

*Made an amazing dinner and had most of my kids (except Jesse and Amber who were away this weekend [and missed!!!]) come and eat dinner and clean up together.

*Watched the Truth Project video together.

The best weekends are those surrounded by love.

Barnum & Bailey Circus!

2008-11-16T00:04:00.000-05:00

We went to the circus tonight. It was very entertaining and we had a great time together! Missed Jesse and Amber this year -- they were out of town!

Epcot and Awards Dinner

2008-11-14T00:40:00.001-05:00

Started out with a breakfast meeting where Gary hilariously opened the meeting with a group of leaders all dressed up as members of a band. Gary was well trained for his "lead singer" role with his Resume sporting Psalty and a few solos several years back! Then we headed out to Epcot for awhile. Went on a few exciting rides and headed back to the hotel. Went to the awards dinner tonight, and the girls went to Downtown Disney for dinner. Had a great time visiting with Peggy and her mom, Sunil and Sujata, Cheri and Carol.

An amazing day!

2008-11-13T00:16:00.000-05:00

We had a fantastic day. We no sooner got all the senior pictures taken when it started POURING DOWN RAIN! We were glad we finished in time! Then we headed to the outlet malls to see what we could see... Then to a special dinner party for Gary's work. They had a very special fireworks show! I was glad to meet up with my friend Sujata, and Gary is pictured above with Joe.

Downtown Disney with Gary!

2008-11-11T23:12:00.000-05:00

After a day hanging out at the pool and then getting an extreme workout with my personal trainer (who I may have to ditch tomorrow because I can hardly move after today!), we went to Blues Brothers for dinner (I think the draw is the sweet potato fries!), and then to see Madagascar 2. Madagascar 2 is definitely a movie that was NOT up mine and my husband's alley, but Bethany and Angie loved it, so OK. When we got back to the hotel, Gary had a little surprise delivered for Bethany for her birthday -- Disney balloons! She was so happy! My husband amazes me at how thoughtful he is. Sometimes his gifts are a little unusual (like the portable toilet paper!! ??) but they're always from his heart!

Bethany's Birthday in Florida!

2008-11-11T01:38:00.001-05:00

We had a great day starting off at the pool. We then had a great workout session: Tae Bo, and then a lot of weights at the gym... Then off to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom. It was so fun there -- it was "snowing" on Main Street. We did everything from Buzz Lightyear's ride to Mine Ride (3x). It was a very Happy Birthday party for Bethany.

We were sad Gary was too busy to join us. On the way home, I told Bethany I was sad we didn't get a cake and sing "Happy Birthday." When we walked in the door, Gary had a special cake for her all ready! We woke him up and sang! An end to an amazing day!

Fun in Florida

2008-11-10T00:28:00.001-05:00

We had a fun day today. Although it was difficult pulling the girls out of bed (we didn't really get settled until after 2 a.m. from flying in), we made up for lost time. Did an awesome Bible study, lounged around the pool, reading and doing puzzles, walked and ran and worked out (Bethany is my own personal trainer this week -- ouch!), then went to Downtown Disney. It was hilarious because we had Bethany's iPhone GPS system and another one and we drove around for about 40 minutes, only to discover that Downtown Disney is about 2 minutes from where we're staying!

Our 27th Anniversary!

2008-11-08T00:59:00.000-05:00

Yep, 27 years ago I married my best friend, and guess what?! He is STILL my best friend!!!

I mean, this guy is AMAZING. He is still SO MUCH FUN to be with (as long as I can distract him from his HP palm, which requires MUCH animation on my part!). He comes in from an overseas trip, and when I backed into the garage, sure enough -- he had CLEANED and organized all the stuff I had been throwing around out there! He did multiple chores, and called me several times waiting for me....

When I walked in, there he was sitting all cute with this HUGE smile on his face. He played TWO songs on the computer for me and made me sit and listen to all the words (I wanna grow old with you by Westlife --- awwwwww --- and "our song" Endless Love by Diana Ross & Lionel Ritchie, which we danced to!!!) THEN he read me an amazing note (which was on the back of HP letterhead! ;-) ). Then he told me that he shopped and shopped while in Switzerland, and ended up buying me a pink watch. (I have to admit he is quite compulsive on the gifts he picks out -- I didn't even KNOW I needed a watch or wanted a watch, but he is so cute to pick it out for me!)

We then did some chores around the house, fixed the internet together, then went out to eat at Lebanese Grill with the best company in town: our children and the wonderful BFF they have picked out (minus Gabe and Mike, who were sorely missed!). Came home and enjoyed the Pistons game with Jesse and Amber.

What did I do for him? Since we usually don't do gifts, I didn't get him a gift. And, in my usual frenetic style I was searching all over the house for the card I bought my wonderful husband about a month ago and LOST. I DID manage to find a cute card which was TOTALLY UNRELATED to anniversaries, but I wrote in it anyways. Bummer. I REALLY have to get it together in the card department...

Community Christian Auction

2008-11-07T00:55:00.000-05:00

I had so much fun at our Church auction. I went with my parents, Mrs. Carollo, Mary and Russell Leone, Donna Alloy, and Rosie Nash. It was a wonderful evening at Penna's. I was SO HAPPY to bump into Jason and Kristen and catch up with them, as well as several other friends I hadn't seen in awhile. I will make sure I don't miss it next year!

Gilda's Club

2008-11-07T00:46:00.000-05:00

I LOVE going to Gilda's and being inspired and inspiring my precious friends there. Patti (top pic) has been coming with me for awhile now, and she is a breath of fresh air. All our Gilda's friends look forward to her coming! Cherri (bottom) had her BRAND NEW 9-day old granddaughter there, and she even let us all hold her! Although many people were able to come, we missed Judi and Gloria, who both couldn't make it because of health issues.

Bike Riding to Romeo!

2008-11-05T23:01:00.000-05:00

Today Julie and I went bike riding down the Clinton Huron trail all the way to Romeo, where we shopped a little on Main Street, went to lunch at a Chinese Restaurant and then biked all the way back. It was SO MUCH FUN. Can't wait to take the trail that way again!

Busy Day!

2008-11-02T21:29:00.001-05:00

We had a great day making apple pies together. Amber came over, Hannah was home, Bethany and then Emily, and we made FOUR apple pies! Hannah made caramel apples too! Then we had Gabe, Jesse, Matt, Zach, Daniel, and Justin joined us for an incredible spaghetti and meatballs and fish dinner, an (obviously) great dessert, the grueling job of getting the boat out of the water (ending up with a VERY injured ankle on Jesse!), and the Truth Project Lesson 3. What an awesome time we had together!

Fun at Changs!

2008-10-31T23:34:00.000-04:00

Jesse, Amber, Gabe, Hannah, Bethany, Christa, Brandon, Emily, Grant, & I had a great night meeting up at Changs to be waited on by the most handsome men in black you ever saw: Mike, Daniel, and Russell! With Daniel's help we had a wide variety of food! Mike's service with a smile is always great. Afterwards, we all went and got a frozen yogurt (with our many cars we had one car go to the wrong yogurt place!!! ha!), then went to see Bethany and Mike's new house. Then we went home to play Catch Phrase and chill. A great night together!

An Incredible Day

2008-10-30T00:20:00.000-04:00

Started out with a fantastic day with my Daddy. We went and looked at Bethany and Mike's house and my brother Tony met me there just to look it over. (Tony was AMAZING to come all the way across town to do that for me!) Then we went to breakfast, then to get a haircut with Bethany and do some errands. We had SO MUCH FUN together! It was the BEST day ever!

Then home and met up with Grant, Amber and Jesse to go to the Pistons' game (they won). It was their opener. We saw Nina and Matt there too! What could be better than spending the day with such amazing people?!

Apple Pie Season!

2008-10-29T00:36:00.000-04:00

Today I had to start making apple pies already -- Bethany even went and got some of the ingredients! I only made a few, and one is almost gone. I will be making pies all month now with all the apples we picked! I LOVE my apple pie recipe and have it to a science how I like it, and it's my kids favorite apple pie now too! It is SUCH A CHORE to make them, but everyone LOVES them. They will not let a piece out the door: poor Brandon asked to bring a piece to eat on the way home and almost had the door guarded on him! I took this pic with my iPhone, but it's even prettier in person!

Colasantis, Etc.

2008-10-27T02:53:00.000-04:00

One of our fav traditions: Colasantis! As you can see, Hannah and Gabe, Nina and Matt, Bethany and Mike and Rachel all agree! What an amazing day together with my amazing family. I look around me here and don't have to go far to count my many blessings. Each and every person is such a blessing. I get a kick out of just watching everyone! We first go apple picking, then to Colasantis, the petting farm and good eats, then to Jack Miner's to see the migration of the geese (although we were a little short on geese this year because of the lateness of the season). Then to Coney Island in Detroit to end a fantastic day together. Great memories! See more pictures here: Colasanti's Slideshow

Palm Desert!

2008-10-24T19:44:00.000-04:00

Off to Palm Desert, CA for a trip that even my wildest expectations cannot compare to how wonderful it is. Just to be with Laurie and Michael is such a blessing. We love them so much. We have so much fun, laughing, hiking, tennis,.... from side splitting times to deep conversations, all the while doing what we ALL love MOST -- There isn't a moment on this trip that I don't just appreciate beyond belief! See more pictures here:

Palm Desert Slideshow

Marathon Day!

2008-10-12T19:32:00.000-04:00

Marathon Day -- started off beautiful, but HOT. But everyone made it! Christa and Hannah came across first, followed closely by Bethany, then Jesse (who ended up ripping 3/4 way through his miniscus), then Mike, then Gabe. See the whole story at their running blog: Girgenti Runners. Sadly, I never saw Jesse, Mike or Gabe! So no pics of them! But they're still marathoners and heros as far as I'm concerned! See tons of pictures here:

Chicago Marathon Slideshow

Exploring Chicago...

2008-10-12T02:16:00.000-04:00

Walked all over Chicago. Went to dinner at Luxe's and met up with Shalene, Diane, Greg, Angie and her friend Carly. Then some people went to a movie, and a few of us went back to the Expo. Mike and I went to Garrat's Popcorn and waited in a very long line for some amazing popcorn. Then everyone went home early to get some rest and to get ready for the big day tomorrow!

Chicago Marathon!

2008-10-10T19:03:00.000-04:00

First got to Chicago and walked TEN miles while waiting for everyone to come! Later in the day everyone starting arriving, and we all got together and ate at the Cheesecake Factory and shopped around. Then we went to the expo. It was Gary and I, Jesse and Amber, Gabe and Hannah, Mike and Bethany, Christa, and Grant. Although Shalene was there with her parents and Angie and a friend, we didn't see them Friday night.

House Hunting!

2008-10-10T02:56:00.000-04:00

Tony called Bethany and Mike to come and look at an amazing house at an amazing deal in St. Clair Shores. Tony came there and we toured the house. It WAS great. Although Bethany & Mike didn't end up getting it, I know it sparked their interest big time. It was fun to tour it, and later Bethany and Mike DID find a house! (See Mike & Bethany's blog!)

Another Special Birthday Lunch!

2008-10-09T19:00:00.000-04:00

Jessie and Kaylee came and took me to one of my FAV restaurants: Da Francesco's. We had a fabulous dinner. Kaylee made me TWO cards! PLUS a bird house and ladybug! It was a special time with Jessie & Kaylee!

A Great Start to a Fantastic Birthday!

2008-10-05T22:06:00.000-04:00

It was amazing to me to have all my kids at my Church for my birthday! I was SO HAPPY to look down the row and see everyone, that I almost BURST... After that we all went out to dinner at Maggiano's and then watched the Truth Project at our house. A perfect day with some amazing people I am privileged to have as my children and their "significant others"!

Another reason I love October for birthdays!

2008-10-04T22:03:00.000-04:00

I get to share my birthday month with my darling adopted niece Kaylee. She is so adorable! She is smart and loving and kind. I love spending time with her! Look at this FACE -- how could you ever refuse her anything?! At my house, she is allowed to do ANYTHING and I tell her she is the PRINCESS!

Here we are at Kaylee's birthday party. The only sad thing was I had to leave QUICKLY because I had a strong reaction to her cat, Precious!

My Brown Eyed Girl

2008-10-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

This girl is amazing. No matter WHAT she takes the TIME to understand me and get together with me... She'll follow me anywhere -- walking around Stony Creek, grocery shopping, and my fav - Starbucks! She is definitely a music note in my life whenever she's around! I miss her when she goes to school all week!!!

Diana is in town!

2008-10-02T21:57:00.000-04:00

Although it was for sad circumstances with her grandma being very sick, I was happy to see Diana, my sister-in-law from Las Vegas. She hasn't been in town for FIVE YEARS! We got together for lunch with her mom and aunts (all of whom I just love!), then went house hopping! A great afternoon!

Celebrating Russell's birthday too!

2008-10-02T09:56:00.000-04:00

I love catching up with Russell for his birthday too! It is always great to get together!

My Birthday Month!

2008-10-01T09:50:00.000-04:00

My birthday month started off with a bang going out to eat with my parents and Tony, the first of many luncheon get-togethers!