Howdy Bloggers ~

With all the festivities of the past few weeks (graduations, 4th of July weekend, reunions, and my son Mitchell's home visit from the Army) ~ we celebrated another special milestone in our lives. Our precious little Jessica Joy turned two years old on June 25th!!

Jessica was one of those "surprise" babies as I was 41 and thought that part of my life was over! ~ but oh my what a surprise and gift she is! Everyday she makes us laugh and smile. She just turned 2 but can already count to 20 and do her ABC's. Jess also loves to sing ~ twinkle twinkle little star, you are my sunshine, and the abc song. (oh and daddy taught her a special phrase....of ohhhhhhh chitttttttt ~ that reminded us of the little one in Meet The Fockers that would say, Ashhhh-holeeeeeee!!) We are working on correcting that! (Bad daddy *lol*) (spank) (stop grinning)

Yesterday afternoon I had my brothers, sister and their families over for a bbq ~ as we sat outside ~ many other relatives popped on by. Pretty soon we had a huge gathering and it was so wonderful! My Mom's brother, Lloyd, who is also my favorite uncle ~ surprised us with a visit. He has had a hard time with her death and always has a rough time seeing all of us because of the memories etc... but after a few minutes it was like old times ~ we were all laughing, telling stories, looking at photo's and sharing sweet memories.

As my Uncle Lloyd watched Jessica Joy he could not believe how much she reminded him of his sister Joy. (mom) Jessica just has this ability to melt everyone's hearts ~ her smile and giggle nearly take your breath away and those deep dark brown eyes seem to see through to your soul. Usually Jess is very shy, but after awhile she warmed up to everyone and offered them hugs and kisses.

It was also wonderful to have my oldest son home. He is in the Army, Infantry Division ~ stationed in Kansas City. He will be heading to California on July 11th for a 6 week or so stay for training in the desert. They are being told they may be deployed to Iraq in 6 or so months. (ack) I'm hoping and praying that some sort of end comes to Iraq's problems and that he can go to Germany, or Africa etc... and help with humanitarian aide. (prayers of all mama's I'm sure) He left this morning for his return trip back to Kansas ~ God Speed ~ sweet son. (anyone find his cell phone??) *lol*

So now the house is quiet again, many have gone down to our cabin (we are going tomorrow) ~ or returned home. It is always wonderful when all the loved one's come back, gather around and enjoy each others company. I hope each and every one of you gather those close to you and make some new special memories.

Huggles and God Bless

~Bren~