The loss of a dear uncle

Monday marked the end of an earthly journey for an incredible man, my Uncle Sammy.  While we mourn the fact that we won't have any more time w/him on this earth, we're comforted by the fact that we know he has joined our Father in heaven and is in pain no more.  While we never look forward to such an event, we enjoyed our time w/family as much as we could in light of the events.  A few pictures from the service and family gathering afterwards.  We very much appreciate your thoughts and prayers for Sam's family as they grieve during this time.

Uncle Sam....one of the finest men I've ever known.

The nephews assembled to bear Sam's casket to its final resting place.

Sweet Maddie placing a rose.

The sistas.

Mom & Yan reflect on the many floral arrangements.

Most of the Maples' clan.

A tired little boy and special time for Grammy.  Sammy loved to rock in this chair by the fire.

Sammy lived a beautiful life and he will be missed.

Mardi Gras - kid style!

So our good friends Kain & Kelly met us in Crystal City, VA for a kids Mardi Gras, complete w/face painting, magicians, ice skating and beads.  The kids had a great time and were so tuckered they both fell straight to sleep in the car.  It was great to see our friends and fun for the kids as well.  We were planning to go to Sat night church after, but thought we might not want to show up as a zebra and green tiger??  Enjoy!

And so it begins...

M's class at school is called 'Zebras', hence her request.

H wasn't so sure about this at first...

but he and M loved it once they were done!

Maddie & Daddy's 1st ice skating venture!

Tuckered out on the drive home.

Christmas travels

Just a few pictures from our travels to the Bells and the Maples over Christmas.  Santa came to visit the Bells and the kids loved it, although I think the adults were just as excited!  We enjoyed our time w/both, and hope you enjoy the pictures!

Hat/scarf gift from Grandma & Grandpa.

Family portrait.

New hats from Matt & Connie, Yan & Sam!

At the Opryland Hotel.

Hunter learning how to wink!

Siblings

Announcement

This post pretty much speaks for itself, so for those that didn't already know....now you do!

Family time in Tenn

Just a few pics from our family Christmas party 2011 (yes I know we had it on the 12th of Nov!).  It was a long drive down & back, but so very worth it!  We had a great time w/the whole clan, and Maddie & Hunter got a night of camping w/Bruce & Mary which they loved.  It's so nice to be just a day's drive away from home, so we're taking advantage every chance we get.  Not sure what Christmas holds in store yet, but hopefully more time w/family.  Until then, enjoy!

Maddie loves to read w/Uncle Sammy!

A loving papa.

And loving aunt/uncle too!  :)

You can't build gingerbread houses without tasting the goods!

And so did Hunter.

A throw-in from Halloween night.

Marine Corps Marathon is done!

The marathon is behind us, and with a finishing time of 3:43:28!  Thanks to all for the support, and especially my wife who is caught red-handed below!

Thanks for the motivation Coach!  ;)

Getting some nutrients at mile 20, just before the 14th St bridge.

Just havin' fun

Just a few pics of recent playing, decorating and enjoying donuts!  Enjoy!

Candy corn dress made for Maddie by Grammy.  Can you tell she's been eating chocolate?

Just hanging out.

Enjoying the local park.

Decorating mini pumpkins.

Krispy Kremes decorated for Halloween!

Our beloved dane.