Funeral for a Friend

Today marked the funeral of a great man, Jake Wanner.

He was a kind and gentle man who cared about people.  He liked to have a good time and share his stories. 

I will never forget how he took the time to record a news clip about a very nice school (because he knew I was a teacher) and said, "Hey Paige, how would you like to teach there?" and then we had a great discussion about teaching and education.  Jake was a thoughtful man.

I love how he took the time with my boys.  Each summer we would visit the river he would make sure they were having a great time on his property. 

Thank Jake for modeling kindness, compassion and thoughtfulness towards others. 

You will be missed, but not forgotten.

Cole

First of all it was his 11th birthday yesterday (Happy Birthday) and I can't believe that it was eleven years ago that I got to see and hear this wonderful boy come into the world.  Cole is a great kid!  We love him so much and I think his cousin Zac loves him just a bit more!  They are so cute together, so loving and most times, so patient. 

For the past two weeks Cole has been living with us.  His mom is still wrapping things up in Bend and his dad is still living in Washington.  His mom is moving back in a month and well, Cole wanted to get here quicker so he kind of arranged all that needed to be arranged and now he is living with us!  We are thrilled.  Did I tell you I love this kid like he is my own?  If I didn't actually see him being born (while I was 5 months pregnant!) then I would claim him as mine! 

So for these past two weeks we have more milk in the frig, more snacks, more wii playing, more of everything...excepts fighting!  Cole and CJ get along wonderfully.  In fact, as I type this (really late for a school night) I hear them in there talking and I love it!  They are such great friends and really what is more important...sleep or talking with your cousin late at night? 

I know the next two weeks are going to fly by and I will cry my eyes out when he is no longer "mine", but for now I am going to enjoy having three kids! 

Happy Birthday Cole Bobba-roni, Cole Pickle, Co-Co, Toh-Toh...love ya!

Melissa's Baby Shower

It was a perfect day for a baby shower!  Davey hosted the lovely event, Hayley and I helped with food and deocrations and Amy took some fabulous pictures.