May thru July Update 2023

The Count down is on… and Garrett is keeping track!

Graduation from Camden Military Academy 2023

 

There is no manual to parenting. Making decisions for our children does not always come easily. When were returned from China and moved to Massachusetts, we did a lot of research on where to leave based on the school systems. When we were offered a transfer back to Parkland we knew it was a no brainer. Little did we know that our small town would be affected by a school shooting. We had to consider each child and what would work best for them. While Garrett was marginally resistant at first to going “away” for school and being so far, our decision to send him to Camden was by far the best decision we could make. Garrett grew in ways that we could not teach him and I could not be more proud of him for going outside his comfort zone and graduating from high school as the XO of his company.

Garrett will be attending The Citadel in the fall and he is going into college with 12 college credits he received from Camden.

For those fortunate people that know Garrett… he is always upbeat and will laugh constantly. Very few things get him down. He is so organized with tasks but not at all with his room. I pray that The Citadel changes this. 

 

Garrett has not gotten here without the unwavering support of his family. (Not all included in this picture) From car rides and care packages… support letters and drop ins. We are reminded that having a strong supportive family is worth EVERYTHING!!!!

 

My Crew!! 

 

Gram and Coach rented the coolest cabin on Lake Murray where we went to celebrate his graduation.

It was the perfect way to celebrate!

Once home… we settled into our beach going, boat riding ways and kicked off summer.

   

The kids LOVE when I make them recreate this signature Carey beach pose! NOT!

   

From Years past!!!

   

Job found… check!

But we all want to live Bella’s life!

   

A day out with my Dad fishing.

And a successful day at that…

   

Even got a visit from my nephew Logan! (Jennifer & Bill’s youngest)

Two of my four favorite guys…

  

 

Life is good

January to April 2023

                  Nothing like a great soccer season with your bestie!!!!  

 

Ayden & Audrey

When you get that text message or note from your child that just fills your heart and gives you the affirmation that while there is no rule book when parenting, sometimes you have to hit some speed bumps full throttle or take the road less traveled to find your path in life.

 

Love my visits from my Dad…

  

Being creative with our happy hour! Sure do love mango season in Florida.

Cool enough to be on the boat with Bella!

#lovefloridawinters

 

Cutest captain!!!

The Citadel has many traditions and this is by far one of our favorites. We are in Folly Beach for a long weekend with our family celebrating Recognition day with our knob… and soon to be cadet. It is a rigorous weekend for her. Pushing her to limits she didn’t even know she had. Then some down time celebrating her accomplishments.

Chris and his mom… out for a morning beach walk.

 

Gearing up for the final hours of knob year… Team Jordan support team activated!

 

If her face doesn’t speak volumes!

   

   

Team Gram and Coach!!!!

   

Officially part of the cadre! This has been a huge year for Jordan.

 

We were so happy to be a part of something so big for her and all of the cadets that have worked so hard to get to this point.

   

Jordan's Home Away from Home!  Thanks Jen and Bill for always taking care of our girl. 

The march to Marion Square .. Jordan with her roommates

Garrett is home for spring break… and has made it official.

The Citadel bound! Class of 2027

Celebrating Easter with family on the boat.

   

Lucky to have Jen in town!

   

Off to a sweet 16 party… my beautiful Ayden

   

Tortuga did not disappoint!!!!!!

   

Wrapping things up with a beautiful wedding in Dallas.

Great weekend away. Getting hotel upgrade and spending a lot of time on foot on the Katie trail.

   

 

Miss Sadie Mae.. in her glory!