The Grace of an Angel

I got a very anxiously anticipated phone call on Valentine's Night.  It was Laura and she was FINALLY IN LABOR!!   Knowing that first labors can be somewhat long, I knew it would probably be a while before sweet baby Zeke made his Earthly appearance, but this sister was so excited and couldn't get there fast enough. 

What I witnessed, over the next 36, yes I said 36, hours was  greatly humbling, touching and inspiring.  I saw the patience of Job, the grace of an angel, the determination of a true champion and the genuine love of a first time mother.   I willfully and gratefully sat with my sweet young sister as she prepared the path to bring her first born child into the world.  I am in great awe of the way Laura overcame and persevered through such a miraculous event.  There were many walks taken and beautiful piano music that complimented the serene environment in which she labored.  My little brother was touched and humbled as he witnessed the divine strength and peace of his sweet wife.  Laura was inspiring to all who surrounded her.  The nurses were amazed at her peaceful and relaxed demeanor during all phases of her unmedicated labor.  Thank you Laura and Kirk for letting me be a part of such an unforgettable experience.  It was through this experience that I understand the greatness of the genuine spirit that resides in my little sister.  I was touched by an angel, and that angel is you, Laura.  I am so proud of you.  Thinking of this experience floods my soul with emotion and love for such a brave and kindred young mother.

Welcome Bryan Ezekiel Varga
7 lbs 12 oz, 20" long
Baby "ZEKE"
I LOVE YOU!!

A Day at the Park

*happy little people and a pond full of fish*

I took a trip to the park with 4 of my favorite Little People.  This was the first time Axton got to feed the ducks and boy did his enthusiasm show.  We went at the perfect time when the ducks were really hungry.  I'm so grateful for fun little places like this, so close to my home.  These are the simple pleasures that make life so enjoyable.

7 Is A Lucky Number!

Our BIG BOY is another year older. Holy cow, 7. . .really??? My how so many things CHANGE in a few short years. 7 years ago I was holding my SWEET little baby and Today he is playing BASKETBALL, soccer, baseball, running, adding, SUBTRACTING, multiplying, reading and even speaking & reading SPANISH.

We celebrated the BIG DAY by taking treats to Luca's class and then enjoying a big night at the Pirate's Dinner ADVENTURE. The kids were MESMERIZED all night and had a blast.

We had big STARS in our group that night. Tony was a stand-in PIRATE and Luca got to take a BOAT ride and dress up and go to war with the Pirates. Lucky BOY!
BANG!!!

One of the best parts of the NIGHT was sharing it with Aunt LAURA!
It was only FIVE days before BABY ZEKE was due to enter the world.
WE CAN'T WAIT!!
Luca and Axton loved giving Zeke hugs and kisses.
SO CUTE!

125 First Graders

I was lucky enough to go with all the first graders to the Aquarium of the Pacific. Four hours in a bus with a herd of 6 and 7 year olds was just what the doctor ordered for my bronchitis and a sinus infection!

The Day was AWESOME!! The kids loved it and so did I. The trip on the bus was well worth it. We got to pet stingrays, baby sharks, all kinds of sea plants and sponges. A kind parent even bought out a theater so all the gang could watch a 4-D movie about sea turtles. The kids really loved watching the Sea Lions and Seals play. We all thought the tank of Lobsters was a bit scary! Yikes, I don't really know how we eat those animals--they're creepy looking. I'm so grateful for the first grade. It was a memorable time with wonderful people!!