May Round Up

Well, we certainly had one busy month.  Virtually every weekend was filled with some sort of going on. However, two events deserve recognition -- the first one being this past weekend.  We had an exceptional Memorial Day weekend up in PA.

Even though Tony stopped drilling for Navy Reserves over a year ago, he officially retired from the Navy this month, and Simone and I worked hard to plan a celebration of the occasion with a special family dinner with our closest family members.

We had the dinner at a restaurant named Ocean -- how could we resist?-- and it was really lovely. In addition to the impeccable service, it was a cozy, private space with great ambience and terrific food. We made Tony blush with a slide show of his Navy years and champagne toast.  And Simone recited a customary Navy poem called The Watch for her daddy. She also helped me design the card and cake below.

Aunt Sue made treat boxes for everyone.

With daddy at one head of the table and Simone at the other, we enjoyed a  dinner to remember forever.  So special!

Helping dad open gifts.

What's a party without a little dancing?

The Dotson family.

The retirement event was made even more meaningful because Tony was invited to be the main speaker at the local Memorial Day ceremony.  The whole family, of course, attended to mark such a special remembrance. Despite the rain, it was touching tribute to honor the fallen of my hometown and all who have served.  Truly what Memorial Day is meant to be.

Finally, I would be remiss not to highlight Simone's annual spring piano recital last weekend.  She did a great job once again! Each year the song gets a little harder and she rises to the challenge.  So proud of her for sticking with it and continuing to make progress.

Our June promises to be a bit less busy, but July then picks right up again.  No complaints though. Simone's years are racing by and we cherish every memory of every month we share together.