This and That

• Earlier this week marked two months since the death of my dearest friend and her three young children.  In many ways the last 2 months have appeared never ending...an boundless stream of painful and heart wrenching days.  I find myself keeping our calendar full in an attempt to ensure each day passes quickly. In doing so I pray that a strenuous schedule will leave little time for my mind to wander; therefore, a complete break down will not overcome me.  Some days are better than others; however, each day I find myself stricken with grief and most days anger as well.  The tragedy that took place is unbelievable.  Unthinkable.  I keep expecting to one day wake up and realize that the last two months have been nothing more than a nightmare.  As I continue to mourn, I also give thanks for a sincere friendship that now leaves me with beautiful memories.   
• We are busily (see above) marking items off our Summer To-Do list with trips to both Cedar Point and Kalahari last weekend.  My mom gifted our three older boys with Season Passes to Cedar Point for their birthdays; therefore, leaving Eric and I responsible for only our own passes.  The boys had a wonderful time last Saturday evening and we are looking forward to additional trips this season.  Our overnight stay at Kalahari went much better than last years.  Honestly, that says quite a bit considering Ryder began puking three hours into our stay this year.  

• Our T-Ball season is well under way with only two remaining games.  Coaching has been entertaining to say the least (and has tested my patience at times), but I could not be prouder of my team.  Garrett has a mighty fine swing on him and Parker does an excellent job fielding the ball.  Together, they would make one heck of a player! 

• I rarely post photos of myself, but I am sporting a new (5 inches) shorter haircut in the above photos.  Since these photos I have also colored said haircut black.  Oddly enough, in doing so I have a strong desire to start sporting red lipstick!
• After 5+ years of having two (various) kids in diapers at any given time we are down to one little dude in diapers.  To say potty training Ryder has been a breeze is an understatement.  There were no bribes.  No prodding.  No accidents.  No potty seat and/or chair.  As with most things with Ryder PT'ing was on his own terms.  His own way.  Approximately 4 weeks ago he woke up, put on undies himself, and literally that was it.  He has no fears of public restrooms (still debating as to whether that is a good thing) compared to his older brothers at his age.  I am hoping he will train Hudson when the time is right!
• Speaking of Hudson, he is a running, teething, chatty, curly haired bundle of energy.  With all of the boys I have always enjoyed the first summer after they have learned to walk.  An amazing world is at their feet waiting to be explored and I love watching Hudson take it all in.