Sunday, April 3, 2011

Jada's Shower

Jada's shower was put on hold a few months ago when she had to go on bed rest. But we were able to celebrate this weekend when she came into town with her special guest - baby boy Ben. Jada is my sorority sister and pictured above are my other sorority sisters who were able to celebrate.

Sunday Funday Visitors

We always feel lucky when we get a call that the Kenney Klan is visiting and they want to stop by. It will be so much fun with Colton can play with Ava and Luke. And better yet, he can join them at the local playground where we always end up.

Pittsburgh Visit

We went into Pittsburgh to visit and celebrate my birthday. My mom went all out as she always does. We had tons of visitors throughout the entire weekend and my mom made lots of great meals. I wanted to hope that everyone who came by was there to see me, but when Colton ends up in their arms or on their lap before I get a hello, it becomes incredibly clear that I've become second fiddle. Pictured above is Uncle George and Colton reading what is one of his favorite new books. He is so proud of himself when he pulls down the pages to see what animal is hiding. Additionally, my Aunt Pat and Uncle Fred got some special time together. Colton loves his family!

Colton Goes to Gymboree

Gavin goes to Gymboree on the weekends in Pittsburgh. Colton had a free pass to give it a try. He had tons of fun playing. We sang, we jumped, and we slid down slides. He loved the bubbles and really enjoyed himself.

Cousin Bathtime

Colt loved the big kid bath and Alana loved washing Colt's back.

TOMS

TOMS is one of my favorite brands. Not only is the branding so smart and clear, it supports a great cause which is the heart of their mission. For every shoe you buy, they give a pair away to a child in need. I've bought 15 pairs of shoes from them (not all for me) and it makes me feel good every time I click "confirm order" knowing kids in need will now have a pair of shoes.

Being a Godmother, I feel the pressure to provide a level of guidance that Alana wouldn't get from her parents. I will admit I am a horrible Catholic, but I do believe I am a spiritual & caring person, and in my own little world, that is really what matters.

I've only provided one lesson so far to Alana, and this was my second go at it. The lesson was about giving and how important it is think about others when you may be so lucky. I tried my best and it was WAY over Alana's and Gavin's head, but one day I will break through...I know it. I know they love their TOMS and wear them often. And they can now sleep soundly knowing that two little kids who have been walking around barefoot will now have shoes to cover their little precious feet.

Koo Zee Doo

It was another girls night out and we went to a BYOB in Northern Liberties. It is named Koo Zee Doo and is Portuguese cuisine. We weren't sure about going there when the first item we saw on the menu was chicken gizzards - but we thought a little food fear wouldn't hurt us. It was such a good decision because we loved every bite of everything we ordered. We had Rissóis de Batata Doce (creamy, fried sweet potato turnovers), Camarão com Piri Piri (shrimp with hot sauce), Feijoada de Marisco (seafood and bean stew rice), and Bacalhau do Dia (salt cod of the day). It was a delicious evening with the ladies.

Remembering Madeleine Kenney

There was a Mass for Mrs. Kenney on the anniversary of her passing. We joined Mr. Kenney at church and then the family had a brunch at a local restaurant. Words cannot express how much we miss Mrs. Kenney and knowing that Colton will not have the opportunity to know such and amazing woman and grandmother, breaks our hearts. I remember the first day I met her and how she warmly welcomed me into her home for dinner. She was a woman you just wanted to have around you. She made you feel so special and important, and her love for her family was so visible. It hurts to not have her here with us. We love her and think of her always.