Miss you already Mom!

Valerie A. Bruce

May 10, 1948 - February 24, 2008

Heaven took an angel from Earth.

Evan's Baptism

I am honored to be Evan Kenneth Helmsin's Godmother. Evan's baptism was held at St. Jude Catholic Church on Sunday, February 15th. Joe and April made special arrangements to host his baptism in Indianapolis for the convenience of her family members as well as Dad and I. Joe's mom traveled from the east coast as well for the event - many thanks to them for coming to us!

It was a beautiful day - a bit cold but the sun was shining. TJ, Todd and Dad looked dapper in their sport coats. So much so, they were asked by the church usher to bring up the offeratory gifts during mass prior to the baptism. It was touching to see TJ and his Papa do this. The baptism service was wonderful. It even kept TJ's attention. Following the service, Mom and Dad treated everyone for a late lunch at the Polo Club. We missed Mom's physical presence as she continued to recover from her treatments but April was able to spend Tuesday with her and photos of the event decorate her hospital room walls. By the way, Evan's big sister - Emma is a doll!

Happy Valentine's Day

Yesterday, a dozen yellow roses were delivered to my office from my two favorite men. They are gorgeous, smell awesome and my favorite! Earlier in the week, Todd made dinner reservations for this evening and arranged for a sitter. I deflated his plans by suggesting that we spend the evening with TJ. We have not had much "family time" the past several months. So, we opted for a evening of bowling at Pinheads and dinner at Outback. TJ won't eat a McDonald's hamburger but he loves steak. That's my boy! We had much fun. Following dinner, we stopped by Methodist for a quick visit with Grandma and Papa Bruce. That put a smile on Grandma's face!

We hope everyone had a very happy day and spent it with their loved ones.

The wind in their face!

Dad waiting for the next rider!

And off they go - TJ's Friends, Jack & Jacob!

TJ waiting his turn!

Dad with Jacob, Alex, TJ & Jack!

It is 11 p.m. - do you know where your kids are?

Following kids night out, TJ and three buddies came home for a sleep over. Ten hours later, I threw them outside to ride the sled pulled by Dad and his ATV. The snow was melting fast so it made for slushy rides. Boys will be boys!

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.
When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals. When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make my favorite cake for me, and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life.
When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a prayer, and I knew that there is a God I could always talk to, and I learned to trust in Him.
When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of each other.
When you thought I wasn't looking, I saw you give of your time and money to help people who had nothing, and I learned that those who have something should give to those who don't.
When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it, and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.
When you thought I wasn't looking I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good, and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking I saw tears come from your eyes, and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.
When you thought I wasn't looking I saw that you cared, and I wanted to be everything that I could be.
When you thought I wasn't looking I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.
When you thought I wasn't looking I looked at you and wanted to say,'Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.'

Superbowl Sunday

With the Colts out, the Mann household was not full of friends. We were not yelling, throwing things or changing seats with each touchdown or time out to change the mojo. However, I must say it was a fun game to watch to the very end.

Really? On the ceiling?

Toys that defy gravity. What will they think of next. TJ and his friend, Alex, raced cars around the family room dodging the can lights and ceiling fan. Good news - the room is cob web free!