NEWMAC CHAMP SWIM MEET

What a great weekend.  Besides the tornado warning as I went to board the plane in Memphis and the freezing rain/snow when I arrived late in Boston, the weekend was one of my best.  The entire experience warmed my heart.

I got to watch lots of swimming.  Pumpkin had a great meet as did the team.

Pumpkin can be a character on the pool deck.  I was so glad to see he still had it.  He was dancing and smiling having a grand time.

I spent lots of time getting to know other swim parents.  It was lovely.  The best part was working in some one on one time with my cadet.

I still pinch myself that our son has chosen The United States Coast Guard Academy.  Hard to believe he is on the downward slope of finishing his first year.  This good bye wasn't as hard.  He'll be home in less than two weeks for spring break.  I can't wait!

Winter Series Complete

We had great weather for the 10k last weekend.  It was fun to watch Peanut run.

 It took some time for the awards to be determined.  But, we did not mind just hanging out.

Congrats to Peanut!  He came in forth overall for the 10k and won his age group.  This year, the awards were paintings done by a local folk artist.  Very creative.  Just gotta find a place to hang it.

He passed!

A major milestone in a 4/c's year at the Academy is passing Boards.  The cadet recites the mission and is asked a few questions which he must pass with an 80%.  We got the call last week that Pumpkin had passed!  Here is the Big Guy telling Buddy.

We were happy and relieved for Pumpkin.  We are learning.  I am sure there is another milestone right down the pike!  Once all of the class passes, the cadets get some more privileges.  Ultimately, they will obtain sophomore status.  There are days that seem very long and I still miss him, but can't believe how quickly this year is going by.

MKAL 2014 Completed

These are my fanciest socks that I've ever made.  This is 4th time I've participated in this mystery knit along.  I'm not giving the pattern details as there might be someone out there still working through the mystery.

I wore the socks yesterday without even blocking them first.  Once I got past the picot cast on, the knitting was pretty smooth sailing.  These were so inspirational that I even cast on for a another pair of socks, different yarn and a simple pattern.  With the help of the Olympics, I have about 3 inches knitted on the new sock!  Love the knitting mojo!

Valentine's 2014

A friend told me about PhoKissed Pets.  Christine's pictures are incredible.  I sent a few photos of Buddy and before I knew it, she created a beauty!

My original thought was to send one to Pumpkin.  I know he misses his four legged friend.  I got him the smallest size as his personal space is limited.  Knowing that he did not have fb, Christine posted this

 when the artwork was done.  Pumpkin got his yesterday texting that it is really cool!  He promptly put it on his shelf.  I've got a frame to give him next week.  (Yes.  I'm gonna see him!!!)

I got a second picture for the Big Guy.  This framed picture is now hanging in his office.  It was supposed to be for Valentine's but I could not wait to give it to him.

The picture just warms my heart.  That's what Valentine's is all about, right?

Belated Christmas Gift

The Big Guy got a belated Christmas gift in the mail yesterday.  The funny thing, I completely forgot that I ordered it.  He is going to be itching to do some riding soon…