Meeting Marissa

On July 20th, 2009 Jerome and I had the opportunity to meet Marissa on our way down to Tennessee. She is my birth daughter who was born 23 years ago. She contacted me last summer and we have texted, talked and FB'd for the past year. This opportunity kind of presented itself and we just couldn't pass it up. We laughed, talked, cried and laughed some more during our visit. The time seemed to fly by and before we knew it, it was time to say "so long for now", since we won't ever have to say goodbye again. It was a wonderful meeting!

Some Summer Fun '09

A few weekends ago Jerome, Anne, Kami and Jordan were able to head up north for a quick camping trip at Clear Lake, MI. We were able to spend time with Jerome's BFF Mike Hughes and his family. It was a fast and furious trip but we had a good time reaquainting with Mike's kids and grand kids and it's always great to see Mike!

This floral arrangement made it's way to our 'garden' the year Jerom'e son Justin died (2006). The plant was at his funeral service and then given to us to plant at home. Each year it comes back healthy and strong and larger than the year before.

For the 4th of July we headed downtown with Kami, Jordan and Andrew. We didn't come prepared with snacks or drinks of our own so Jerome and Jordan headed out to buy some...45 minutes and a 2 mile walk lagter they returned. Next time we WILL be bring our own! We picked a great spot on the grass and had a great view of a tree (we sat behind the same tree two years ago). When the fireworks started we picked up the chairs and moved "a bit to our left" and had a great view. We love going downtown to people watch and spend time together making some happy memories!

Sunset over the Sixth Street Bridge, Grand Rapids, MI

Anne's Motorcycle

On May 15, 2009 I became the proud owner of a 1986 Honda Shadow 500. Jerome and I drove to Ohio to pick it up and I have been loving it ever since. We got it home on May 19th and I have logged on over 1000 miles on it. We are taking the bike on a road trip to the Smokey Mountains to ride Deal's Gap and the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is going to be a blast! More pictures to come!

Logen's Leave Before Deployment

Logen was home for a brief time at the end of May before he shipped out for Iraq. He is overseas until the end of December or begining of January. We have been able to communicate periodically via the internet which has been very comforting for me. He's trip was short but sweet. We are praying for his safe and swift return!

Andrew DeLong's Graduation 2009

Andrew's graduation from highschool took place on May 26, 2009. He graduated from Northview High School in Grand Rapids, MI. His brother Logen was unable to attend the actual ceremony, but was able to come for a short visit before deployment and snap some family photos. It is incredible how much the children have grown. Andrew's plans in the fall are to attend GrandValley State University and pursue a degree in Physical Education. We are all very proud of him and his accomplishments!