Sunday, June 1, 2008

Graduation Season and Walking For Cancer Preps

Before I get into the ramblings I'd like to acknowledge two inspirations for this log. The first is my son Vincent who for two years now has kept a Daily Journal. Then about a year ago or so a long time friend started a daily blog which is witty and interesting. http://lenspeaks.blogspot.com/ Since Len and I met in Mount Vernon, NY when we were 5 years old we have managed to stay in touch all these years. I find his writings a good way to keep in touch as well as to reminisce. Now back to the ramblings.






Saturday morning was a sunny repeat of last Saturday. Connie and I woke up early and were at the Manhattan Beach Pier by 6 am to get a walk work out in to prepare for the November 3 day cancer walk. In contrast to last week's chill and drizzle we were greeted from the outset with sunshine and a refreshing sea breeze. The nicer weather was distracting though which was evident in the longer time it took to complete the course. Turns out that the sun wasn't as good a drill sargent as the previous trainer. Once we were done we headed back home where Connie made another fine breakfast for us. We really look forward to our Saturday mornings and she makes them special for us.










Saturday afternoon Joseph and his friend Danny had a jam session. Both boys started taking lessons playing a chosen musical instrument. Although they are newbies their dedication and desire is starting to payoff. They both have some skill.







Saturday evening started off in an unusual manner but it is in keeping with the season. We attended an outdoor Mass for our pastor, Msgr John Barry, who celebrated his 25th year as the pastor of our church. Right after Mass we headed over to Ron and Nicole's home to celebrate Ron's graduation earlier in the day. Ron completed his studies in Masters Business Administration- Information Technology. We joined the fun at 7 and stayed until 11. Ron has a lot to be proud of and hopefully he will quickly find a position suitable to all of his fine learnin'.






The boys ended up at their cousin's home overnight where they stayed up until 3 playing Play station 3 games. After picking them up from a local fast food joint we headed out to the boys last soccer game for the school. For Joseph it is now a time of "lasts" whenever any reference is made to school. He had his last exam on Friday, Monday is his last field trip, and Wednesday will be the last time he wears the school uniform. Thursday is his graduation day from 8th grade. I am not ready for this.






After the soccer game the team had a small pizza party and presented a gift to the coach. The team had a great season that began with winning the CYO championship and then followed that by having an undefeated season.









Finally we all went to the beach a little before 6 pm to get another walk work out in- at least Connie and I did. The boys hung out near the pier. With the sun setting the homes along the strand were highlighted in very pleasing colors and shades. A completely different look than in the morning when the sun is rising which casts long shadows from the houses on the strand.






This week is Joe week. Monday Knotts Berry Farm field trip, Tuesday night brings a school dance, Wednesay is graduation practice, and all day Thursday is Graduation themed starting with Mass in the morning, brunch in the late morning, and ending with the ceremony in the evening. Friday night caps the week with celebratory parties where the parents and kids celebrate in separate but neighboring homes.






1 comment:

Len said...

Whoa! Thanks for the great mention.

As you can see, these blogs can be very addicting. To read and to write.

I am enjoying these snapshots of your family life.

And, in a few weeks, I'll get to be part of the weekend wrapup when we do the Dodger Sunday game with the boys.