Happy Birthday TJ 16!!

July 16, 2009 was TJ's golden birthday-- he turned 16. He had this day planned out for a long time. First order of the day was to head to the DMV and pick up the long awaited for Driver's Liscense. Then next on the agenda was a day of gaming with no interuptions from mom and dad. His cousins came and spent the night and I am sure the gaming lasted well into the next day. TJ wanted pizza and an Ice Cream Cake for his birthday dinner. He was very happy to get a new shot gun. He can't wait to try it out at Grandpa's farm next weekend.

Of course, the other excitement of turning 16 came on Sunday when TJ was ordained a Priest and received his Teacher's portion of the Duty to God Award. We are really proud of you TJ. You are such an important part of our family. You keep us laughing everyday and you are a kind and sensitive son. You always seem to know when Dad or I are down and you continue to amaze us with your thoughtfulness and kindness. We love you so much and are so happy to accompany you on your path of life. Happy Birthday Taylor!

NEW YORK IN 24 HOURS

Brooke and Shawn were the very first in the family to take advantage of Mom's new Jet Blue benefits! On Wed July 1--Brooke said "Dad can we go to New York on Friday?" Well that was all it took and a trip was born. Brooke didn't have school on Sat July 4 and so late, late Friday night they caught the overnight flight to New York and arrived bleary eyed but excited to spend a day in the Big Apple. They hopped on the subway and rode all the way down to Battery Park. They stopped at the World Trade Center site and spent some time at Trinity Church. Brooke especially loved the church because of her Art History class this last year. They saw Wall Street and then hopped on the Stattton Island Ferry and sailed out past the Statue of Liberty. The crown of the Statue was opened for the first time that day since September 11, 2001. Of course, they had to get a picture for Brooke Lynne of the Brooklyn Bridge. They jumped back on the subway and rode it up to time square. They bought their tickets to the Broadway Musical "Mary Poppins." After they had their tickets in hand, they had a quick lunch and went up to Rockefeller Center and of course the NBC store. Brooke loved all of the fun merchandise ther. But without a doubt, the musical was definately the highlight for both Brooke and Shawn. They said the whole show was a magic and illusion act with great music. They LOVED IT!
As soon as the show was over they jumped back on the subway and headed back to JFK airport and flew back home. They were exhausted but happy when they got home. It was definately a memory!