Memorial Day

Happy Memorial Day!!! I hope you all had a safe, great great holiday... we sure did. We were all off from school, work, etc...so that was nice in itself...but we really got to spend some quality time together today, and it was so nice. Plus, we're that much closer to Summer break...wooohooo!
It started out @ 4:30 (yes, a.m.)...I had to get the briskets in the oven. I did go back to bed for just a bit before I got up and started cooking/preparing some more. While David and the kids relaxed on the couch and helped me do nothing, I slaved away in the kitchen. I'm kidding! It was really nice to just see them lounging and playing and taking it easy together...our busy schedules don't allow for just a whole lot of that, sadly enough. We had lunch @ my brother's house and I was in charge of the Brisket (so good!!!), broccoli rice casserole, banana pudding, & salad (even though I bought that in a bag...ha!). I have to say, everyone did a great job...lunch was delicious...and spending time with family was even better! Jennifer, my brother's girlfriend, made a couple of desserts, one being Butter Cake...it was fantastic! She is going to give me the recipe, which could be dangerous, because I may want to make it and eat it all the time :-0.
Afterwards, I really needed to come home and clean the kitchen, but instead Jennifer and her kids, me and my kids, and my mom went swimming. We had the BEST time. Isabel absolutely loves the water...it was kind of scary because she was so comfortable in it and keep getting in and out and going everywhere, she kept telling me "just let go, Mom". Nothing really needs to be said about Andrew and the water, he basically should have just been born a fish because Andrew + Water= Love...lol. Joseph can't "swim" on his own, but actually learned a lot today and did well. I can't wait for them to all take swim lessons in a few weeks. Plus, it was quality mother/daughter time for my mom and I, and we don't get a whole lot of that...so I'm thankful we all went together.
It was just a really relaxing, fun day (besides having to get in a swimsuit...yuck). I honestly can't think of much that would have made it any better (except for my G-ma being here to celebrate with us)...Thank you, God, for such a blessed day spent with those I love.
Of course, after this activity filled day...we are all worn out! I can barely type this but I'm not quite ready for bed, still hoping for a second wind so I can get some laundry done (laundry...the story of my life!).
Well, that's it for now...hope you all have sweet dreams tonight!

Oh, before I go...one very important last word...

***Here's to those who serve & to those who have lost their lives serving the United States of America, (and to their loved ones who miss them so much)...we are forever grateful and truly thankful that your courage has allowed us to live a life of freedom...God Bless***