Long time no blog

It has been awhile since I have posted.  What has been going on with Joe and his brood?  We weathered Irene well due to God's mercy and kindness.  Lots of yard debris, power outage, some flooding causing damage to our water heater, and a busted shed window.  I say we fared well considering she stayed on top of us for 24 hrs.  The boys and I had a short visit with my folks at a beach house.  It was sweet to spend time with them.  My mom is going through a tough physical trial at the moment, and I desired so much to be an encouragement to her.  I am one (especially after Joe's cancer) to ask lots of questions for all details so that some how I can help figure out what is going on.  I realized later on what she really needed was for me to listen and pray with her.  Although, I failed that time, I am purposely trying to encourage her without giving some sort of diagnosis.  Joe has had some pretty "epic" surf sessions involving sweet swell and good friends.  Of course, good food and beverage is always associated.
Joe has also managed to stump his toe to the point of turning purple, acquire a sinus infection, and sustain a 2nd degree burn on his left hand...all this week mind you.  Little Joe is plugging away at school.  He is quick to point out to those that will listen that math is his least favorite subject and history and science are his favorites.  I do remind him that being a helicopter pilot, professional scuba diver, or even a Lego creator all require a high level of math.  Baby Joe is really in to balls.  Loves them.  Goes crazy over them.  You know the big red ones outside of Target?  He just about jumps out of my arms when he sees them.   The boys adore their dad.  Most evenings consist of a main event (you know, 'raslin') on the carpet.
I am currently working on a sweater for my youngest, trying new recipes to keep the appetites excited, reading through a book we got Little Joe for his birthday, not cleaning enough, playing more, and eating far too much cheese.



       In order to get a good smile from this guy, I have to ask him to tell me about funny parts of
                                                                favorite movies

                                                               Let's get him!
                  

                                            At a horse riding birthday party for a sweet cousin

                                                   Being still for a picture

                                         Guess who likes to get behind my bedroom curtains?

                                               We love chocolate chip cookies!