Searls Stuff

2015 update continued: Cruising with the Castellos.

Rebecca Searls Castello must be the luckiest person I know. She is forever winning things! Lucky for Ron and I, she won free cruises for not only themselves, but for 2 more people. She sweetly invited Ron and I to take advantage of their extra tickets! I love going on a cruise! It is the ultimate vacation... no cooking, no cleaning, no worries! Just rest, sunshine, good company, and beautiful scenery.

Most people that cruise spend a lot of time in the casino and bars while at sea. I don't drink, smoke, or gamble so I avoid those locations. Because most people are otherwise engaged, the decks are often bare. That makes it possible for me to do what I enjoy most; sit in a quiet spot with a good book and watch the water drifting by.

In my opinion, one of the oddest things about cruising is formal night. I have never been. nor will I ever be, the kind of person that likes to dress up. Needless to say, we were a little under dressed compared with most of our cruising companions. But, we had just as much fun!

What better way is there to travel to far away places than by cruise ship?? You sail along during the day, sleep soundly to the swaying of the ship, and wake up to see the wonders of Mexico! Sailing into port is one of my favorite times. Looking off in the distance to see the white beaches and sea side communities is breathtaking.

Our first stop on the cruise was spent wandering around the ancient landmarks in Progresso and Merida.

Becca and Edward

Ron and Gwen

Silly Becca!

After returning to the ship, enjoying the evening shows and entertainment, we sailed through the night to our second stop. We spent the day enjoying the resort in Cozumel.

Thanks, Becca. It was great trip and just what we needed after such a stressful winter!!

2015 update continued: Early June - Celebrations and Graduation!

During the school year, I don't always get to participate in school activities for the grandkids. Mostly because I'm at MY school working. That is the biggest disadvantage of not teaching in Temple. However, I do take advantage of my sick days and personal days to make sure I can attend the most important events.

Maggie Lyn received an academic award for being the brains of the family. All A Honor Roll for the Year! Way to go Mags!! Aunt B, Mommy, Daddy, Poppy, and Mimi were there to help her celebrate.

Later that same day, we were able to watch as Sophie Lyn graduated from Kindergarten! It is so hard to believe how quickly the little ones are growing.

I often express the most sincere gratitude to my Heavenly Father for being able to have my children live close enough that I can be a part of their families' lives. Not many of my friends have that blessing. Sweet moments like these are what matters most.

2015 update continued: May is for Mothers and Disney!

May is a bit of a blur. I can safely say we celebrated Mother's Day and went to Disney on Ice. I only know that for certain because those are the only pictures with a May time stamp in my camera. :-)

I've always hated Mother's Day. It is just a day that points out my many short-comings as a mother. It's a coulda, shoulda, woulda kind of day. Thank goodness it only happens once a year.

Disney on Ice was a treat! Leslie and Jamie had planned on taking the girls and I got invited to tag along. The show was very well done and the girls had a blast!

And somewhere along the line, I went to lunch with Leslie and her family. Must have been Applebee's. Geez! I really shouldn't wait so long to blog! My memory isn't what it used to be.

2015 update continued: Dad's Final Battle

This will be a hard post. I'm intentionally keeping it short because it is difficult to write. We lost Dad to cancer in April. He fought with bravery, dignity, and courage; never complaining, and always with a positive attitude. Dad left behind one final lesson: do not complain and accept what life throws at you with grace.
There is often a mixture of emotions when a loved one passes away. In these pictures you will see the joy that comes when family gathers together. Yet, even in some of the faces and actions you see the pain and sorrow. Enough said. We miss you, Dad.

One of my favorite pictures of Dad. He was in every sense of the words, Mr. Fix-it.

During the weeks before Dad's death, the brothers came down to help care for him and offer whatever support Mom needed. They stayed at Mom and Dad's house and took care of so many things. It made the time much easier for Mom.

The youngest Porter boy; David Andrew and his cool Harley camper.

The grandkids gathered around and gave Dad a lot of joy. Their laughter and antics brightened his last days. Aunt B was great about providing them with diversions.

A final message from Maggie Lyn...

The funeral was held at the Texas State Veteran's Cemetery. It was a quiet ceremony attended only by his closest friends and family members. Most of his children and some of the grandchildren were able to make it down in time to say goodbye to Dad. Those who were able, traveled from Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Minnesota, and Kansas to be there for the funeral. The women from our church, Mom's quilt group, and many other friends kept us well fed.