Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Welcome 2025

We are at the end of February and I'm finally making a post on the blog.  Here is a picture I found on my phone that Cecilia may or may not have taken.


 

Mary also started her altar server training at the end of January.  I didn't get a chance to witness it until the week was up.

Mary was of course trained by Cecilia.
Father Bozzi insisted we take a picture.
George turned 15!  He loves it when I take his picture at breakfast.
Becca and I made the drive down to Springfield to see her award winning art piece, Barred Breathe.  She was award a Golden Key, which I have learned is a kinda big deal.  

She has also won Best in Show since this picture was taken for the same piece at Illinois State. 
Mary also had her 9th birthday.  It was celebrated over three days so that Dad could be home.


This is on her actual birthday.
She had a basketball game that evening as well.

Mike had his first trip over the ocean last week to Finland, Germany, and Poland.  Sadly, he didn't get to see much besides his hotel rooms and copper mines.  This is him coming down from the gate in Peoria.

That's it for now.  We are busy wrapping up middle school volleyball as well as 2-3 grade basketball, in the middle of two Scholastic Bowl seasons, Scouts for everyone, and are gearing up for track next week.  We hope all who read this are well and happy and that we may see you again soon.

Friday, January 3, 2025

Closing Out 2024

We did our annual Christmas tree hunt with only 3 kids this year and Tilly.  It was a warmer day so we didn't need to wear heavy coats, or any coat at all.











Mike took the first cut...

...then George...



















...followed by Mary...



















...and ending with Cecilia.



















It took a couple of days but this is what it looks like all gussied up.

For the Spanish song at the St. Pat's Christmas Concert, Mary had to dress up as a sheep.  I think I did a pretty good job on the costume with only a weeks notice, don't you agree>

One morning, I came out to find Tilly pampering herself on my small pillow.





The 3rd and 4th graders formed a choir and sang at Lessons & Carols as well one of the Christmas Eve Masses.  Mary was excited to sing like the rest of the family.



Becca took a ceramics class this past semester and made some beautiful things.  

These fairy bookends are my favorites.



I was so busy having fun with family, I did not take many useable pictures but I have a few.


We ended the year with Patrick turning 19.  He loves having his picture taken!


















I can't say I'm sorry to see 2024 end but it had it's own blessings to share with us.  I'm hoping 2025 is filled with love, forgiveness, unity, and peace for all of you.

Where Little Hats Play