Emily's Award Ceremony

(click on photo to enlarge)

Northwest Valley Award Ceremonies were held on Thursday evening. Miss Emily was the proud recipient of 4 academic achievement awards. She received the award for excellence in Academic achievement in Science and in Advanced Band, and Jazz Band. She also received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Education. Finally she received a very touching award - The Teacher's Choice Award. This award was given to her by Mr. Westermayer. He stated that this award is given to the student that inspires their teachers. Mr. Westermayer said that Emily is the highlight of his day every day. He commented that she is the student that makes him remember why he became a teacher...and why he comes to work every day.

Emily speaks so highly of Mr. Westermayer...clearly the feeling is mutual. She was so touched by his kind words, as were Rowdy and I. I think Mr. Westermayer will be one of those teachers that Emily will talk about for years to come. I wish he knew how very special he is to Emily.Maybe we will have to make him a student's choice award.... he would clearly be the winner!

Rowdy, Jake and I could not be any more proud of Emily's achievements. She works hard and is so dedicated to her school work. She is an impressive young lady. I hope she knows how much her mother ADMIRES her.

Keep up the hard work. It pays off....

We love you so much.... bunches and bunches.

Happy Anniversary

Seventeen years ago today... Rowdy and I married.


AMAZING... 17 years ago.


Sometimes it feels like just yesterday.


I remember so vividly falling in love with Rowdy.


I remember the excitement of planning a wedding.


I remember all the plans, all the dreams we shared.


It does not seem possible that it was 17 years ago.


Other times it seems like an eternity.


(I don't mean that in the typical sarcastic way)


I really mean it seems like I have been married forever.


I can't really remember life before marriage or before Rowdy.


I can't remember what it was like to NOT be his wife and the mother of his children.


We are a team. We are a pair, and a 4-some.


We are.... WE. There is no I or me .... there is just US.


I LOVE that.


I love that I am not alone. That I am part of US.


I love that I am married to the MOST amazing partner I could ever have.


I love that Rowdy is perfect for me.


I guess what I am saying... is...


I LOVE YOU ROWDY.


Thank you for being the most amazing husband.


Thank you for loving me in spite of my faults ,


for putting up with me when I am at my worst,


and for helping me to strive to be my best.


Thank you for always supporting me and believing in me...especially when I don't.


Thank you...for being my best friend.


I love you now and....FOREVER !!!