Week 35--Rocco's Blessing / LobsterFest

Monday, Aug. 28th

Nathanael started his Junior year at UConn, but was away on a business trip- a financial planning seminar in Dallas.  Trevor had his first day of orientation- only a half day.  It was a slow-roll, week-long process getting all scholars up and running, so I didn't take official pictures this day.

Tuesday, Aug. 29th

We hosted our beloved family tradition- Rocco's High School Blessing.  Each time we launch a kid from our homeschool nest into their East Catholic High School experience, we host a 'blessing'- an evening focused solely on Rocco with a room filled with people who have had or will continue to be very involved in his life and will serve as his support through the high school years.  It is a chance for him to be love bombed and have words of affirmation and edification spoken over him.  He was overwhelmed by those who came, who thoughtfully and prayerfully prepared thoughts for him.  One recurring theme throughout the night was what a kind young man he is.  Another challenge was to stand firm.  Trattoria Toscana was a great place for such an event and, once again, we as parents felt so blessed by the people in our lives and for the strength and truth and wisdom of the voices in the room.  Grandparents, older siblings, uncles, his dad, Brent, Pastor Jonny, Pastor Mitch...so much love.

Wednesday, Aug. 30th

"Nose."

Rocco had an ortho appointment, which happens to be located across the street from C4's office.  We decided to surprise C4 with a quick drop-in visit, but at soon as I pulled into the lot, I could see that C was busy hosting his company's 2nd Annual Corn Hole Tournament.  Not wishing to embarrass him, we continued past and I resisted the urge to roll down my window and yell, "Hi, C4, honey!  I can see you busy with your little party...I'm so proud of you!"

Thursday, Aug. 31st

Rocco had his orientation day.  BIG, exciting, little-bit-nervous day!  The school had such a warm welcoming for the Freshman.  The sidewalk was lined with upper classman high-fiving the kids, music was pumping, and the Eagle mascot was dancing all over the place.  Lisa also sent a picture of C4's "Blessing" from just 10 short years ago!  Time flies! 

The annual task of gathering and preparing all the hockey gear, figuring out what fits and what needs to be purchased.

Rocco wanted to get him up from his nap.

It's been a little while since the Matchbox cars laid amongst my jewelry, and I'm so happy to return to this scene.

Friday, Sept. 1st

The boys had their first full day of school.  I spent a few hours at the ER with Juju.  She'd been sick all week and was still in a fair amount of pain.  She'd already been to urgent care twice and sick with fever and nausea all week, so I took her down to try to get to the bottom of it.  A kidney infection was the culprit and after a bag of fluid and a couple new RX's, she was feeling better.  Her first I.V.  

I found some pictures online of our beloved OBX getting rocked by a storm.

Saturday, Sept. 2nd

We hosted Day 1 of LobsterFest.  Instead of our usual Tony's Pizza night, we decided to celebrate Uncle Lee's retirement and end to an amazing, meaningful, made-a-difference, 34-year teaching career.  He loves Mexican food, so we rolled with it!  Bless Lisa for the wonderful pictures and for carrying the heavy load with most of the food.

Sunday, Sept. 3rd

Our **19th** annual LobsterFest!  We were marveling how much the event has morphed through nearly two decades.  Newborn babies to hold, toddlers running around, young kids that we'd blow bubbles for or make fun desserts for, entertaining the crew with organized activities, teens, adding to the group through marriage, to where it is now- a bunch of adults!  Everyone outgrew their shirt and it's time for new ones!

Aunt Bonnie worked her magic.

Lenny lives.

Harlem joined us!  He was a gem through the whole day- loved the activity, loved the attention.  He got passed around all day long and never made a peep. 

Aunt Bonnie was so excited about her new earrings she found on their recent Maine trip.

For the last couple years, the evening of LF has doubled as the Bourquin Fantasy Draft.  Rocco won last year, so he was presented the trophy.

"Commish"

Aunt Bonnie's cheesecake is must!