Father-Daughter Dance at Church

The Knights of Columbus at our church, Holy Family Catholic Church, held a Father-Daughter dance Saturday night. Mike couldn't get off work to go, but Paige was invited by Chris to go him and Carissa. Chris and his wife, Theresa, were in charge of the decorations and festivities of the night. The girls had a wonderful time and we are very thankful to Chris and Theresa for thinking about Paige.



Theresa took pictures for us. It looks like a lot of fun. Paige said next year Daddy can take her!

Chris and the girls dancing!

Carissa and Paige having their princess meals!

Devin Gets Buzzed!

I've been waiting on this day for a long long long time! Devin's long shaggy hair drives me crazy! I knew eventually he'd come to his senses!! He came home tonight and says "Mom, can you pleeeeaaaaase buzz my hair tonight?" I'm sure it was driven by his girlfriend of the week wanting it cut - but hey - it got cut! Look at all that hair that's on the floor!!!

ps - don't let the pouty face fool you . . . it was all his idea!

Please Send Up Thoughts and Prayers

We are once again facing a challenge with Chase that we are seeking guidance on. He's been having outbursts at school again, and today it all came to a head. One of the other children in class was teasing him and Chase went into one of his "frozen" states and followed that up with pure anger. He began throwing things, crying out, and even kicked his chair over. When the school called me, they called it "violent" in nature.

We have tried so many interventions, strategies, and even medications. Here at home, where things are more controlled, he does very well. But, in school, it doesn't seem to be enough. As parents, we are feeling at a loss and very sad that we can't seem to help this child with what he is feeling inside.

We have taken the next step and are having him seen by the Behavioral Psychologist at Baptist Hospital. We've been told he's one of the best in the region.

Please, keep Chase in thoughts and prayers as we continue to fight this battle with him.

First Reconciliation for Chase and Kayleigh

Kayleigh and Chase both celebrated the Sacrament of First Reconciliation at our church tonight. They've been preparing for several months and both did a great job. We're very proud of them both!!

The "Snow Storm" In North Carolina!

This is a picture of the snowstorm aftermath!! Thought you folks up north in Ohio and Indiana would get a kick out of it. This "snowstorm" closed schools for 2 days and 178 churches in the area on Sunday!!!!! Mike and I sat back and laughed - even the kids thought it was crazy to cancel school for it!!!

Paige Loves Her Grandpa!

I ran across this picture last night while I was sorting through photos of our trip. It's probably my favorite picture of all! She spent every chance she could on Grandpa Casto's lap while we were back home. Just precious!

We're Back From Our Trip Back Home!

We had a wonderful trip back to Ohio to celebrate the Christmas Holiday. The four days went by so quickly! The first day we were able to relax and rest from the trip at my Dad's house in Bryan. The next day we drove to Paulding to spend the afternoon with Mike's Mom and Chris where we were also able to see his sister, Anita, and her children; his step-brother Ryan and his girlfriend; his Aunt Carol; and his Grandma Reinhart. The kids had fun playing together and playing "monster" with Grandpa Chris! Saturday evening we spent back at my Dad's house with my sister and her family. The kids had fun playing Electronic Monopoly with Grandpa Casto! All day Sunday was spent with Mike's Dad and Judy; his sister and brother-in-law, Trish and Bill; and his sister Anita again. Grandma and Grandpa Lyons had their hands full with 8 grandchildren taking over the house! On the way back to Bryan we stopped to visit Grandma Molitor and Aunt Carol. The kids love spending time at Great-Grandma's house. We were sad to leave on Monday morning; but we know we'll see everyone again soon!