Big milestones = Big celebrations

The past few weeks have been a seemingly endless string of celebrations. Big milestones that demanded big celebrations.  And when we weren't celebrating, we were planning the next big moment.  So excuse the delay, but we had some serious partying to do. And you know how we feel about celebrations around here.  We embrace them whole-heartedly, and without reservation.  Because, not to sound like the proverbial broken record but, life is too short not too.

A few weekends back,  I was both honored and privileged to witness and celebrate as my dear friend, Matthew DeGance, was ordained as a Catholic priest. 



It was a breathtakingly beautiful ceremony that was attended by family, friends, and colleagues of Matt's



Matt's family...just family!




Matt, parents and Luc Van Looy, Bishop of Ghent, Belgium


Matt and our friend from high school, Mike Murgatroy

..some who traveled as far as Jerusalem, Israel...to support, honor and celebrate such a momentuous and blessed occassion.



As I sat in that beautiful church, surrounded by hundreds of Matthew's family and friends, I was awe struck by the amount of love and adoration one person had created...and those were just people who were able to attend.  He has touched the lives of so many people by his love and friendship throughout the years, and his ministry is just beginning....


(Photo property of Fr. Matt)

That day I watched a man, who I have known since he was a boy, become a courageous and faithful servant of our Lord.  By mysteries only truly and fully understood by God, Matt has been given the gift to administer sacraments to the people and consecrete the wine and bread into the body and blood of Christ. What an awesome and humbling responsibility!


(Photo property of Fr. Matt)


(Photo property of Fr. Matt)

(Photo property of Fr. Matt)

It has been my privilege and honor to know Matt since our high school days.  His commitment, dedication, courage and faith have encouraged me to be a better wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend...and he challenges me to be a better person, each and everyday. 



I am so very grateful for the friendship, support, guidance, and example Matthew gives to my family and I.

Our prayers are with him as he begins his ministry in New Orleans.  We are so very proud of all he has, and will continue to accomplish.  Congrats, Matt!!!

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We celebrated America's 235th birthday this year with a small family BBQ and fireworks at the beach. 





While most of the nation celebrates our country's birthday in parks, at lakes or in backyards, my memories of celebrations past always include sand between my toes, salty breezes rustling my hair and the sound of waves lapping at the beach while the sights and sounds of fireworks lit up a night sky.







This Fourth of July celebration was no different.

I love sitting on the beach watching and hearing the fireworks overhead, while looking to the north and south and seeing as far as the eye can see up and down the coast.  Each city celebrating in their own way, simultaneously, as thousands of Americans dressed in their red, white and blue pause for a moment in solidarity as one nation...under God.  I LOVE this holiday....


My sweet sister-in-law, Jen

Especially since fireworks not only close our nations birthday, but also kick off my little boyfriend's birthday...

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It seems like just yesterday he made his debut.



No longer is he a baby, rather a little man.  A little man who is fiercely devoted to his family...



Stevie and his cousin, Tommy...



has grown gills and fins this summer, and swims like a fish...





and tells his momma she's "the best momma...EVAH" and that he is "gonna marry you, momma".  And my heart memorizes every syllable, inflection in his voice and word spoken...because I know that soon enough those words will be all but a memory.



But in the meantime, we take a deep breath and make a wish...for another year of happiness, health and love.


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This year, Stephen insisted on a "Cars" birthday party...and when it comes to parties, my kids wish are my command....

So a "Cars" celebration it was....





Complete with a raceway....careful, it's slippery when wet (and soapy)!





And a pinata...because little boys need to smash and break, something.





A tradition that started with Emily and has since continued...homemade cupcakes.  And while they may not be the prettiest, fanciest, or most couture cupcakes in town, they have a secret ingredient that none of those other cupcakes have--they are made with LOVE.



And if it brings smiles...



and even elicits the shy smile...



it was worth every second.







We were so blessed to be surrounded by family and friends for all of the moments we celebrated these past few weeks.  Life is meant to be lived and celebrated.  And we are doing our best to enjoy every second...