My Michael

Happy Day to you my beautiful Michael!
I just recieved a wonderful picture of you from your mom this morning. Soon you will be nine months old. I feel like I've watched you grow through phone pictures. But I am happy at this new technology that I can share that. Your mom and dad have just about sent one everyday which allowed me to be a part of your daily schedule. I've seen you wake up in the morning, ride with you to daycare, eating a meal, having tummy time, rolling over, bath time and bed time. A real blessing for grandparents who live far away. I am so thankful that we will be spending some time together in the few months ahead. Papa and I are looking forward to these visits especially your "first birthday party"! We pray God allows us precious time to get to know you more as you grow and become a young man. Papa and I pray blessings upon your life to become a man of God and be a strong influence to those around you. You may not know this now, but I know that you have already been an influence on your dad. I feel your life was used to turn his heart back in the direction of the calling God has on him. Michael, you have a wonderful mommy and daddy who love you sooooo much. Be blessed my beautiful grandson, you have a full life ahead of you. Love Gigi

"Sweet Cheeks" 15 months old

Good morning Sweet Cheeks!
I can't believe you are already past your first birthday. I did not write anything about your first birthday party because I had been putting together my thoughts. You certainly were a princess who thoroughly enjoyed every bit of the fun and attention of your day. Your mommy did a great job making it a celebration to remember. For the past few months, I have been watching and observing as you play and communicate with people around you. I am amazed at how much you understand and interact with others. We still need to work alittle on sharing, but you are starting to understand how it goes. I am not surprised at the terrific sense of humor you are developing. You love to test and tease us which shows that your mind is always thinking ahead. I see many signs of tenderness and compassion reflected in the way you play with your dolls and furry animals . Did I mention how you love to climb and tumble and falling doesn't hurt at all. The very BEST part of my precious time with you, are the oodles of hugs and kisses you share. My little sweet cheeks, you make me smile and laugh and cry at the same time, rejoicing in the priceless gift from above, unconditional love! Love Gigi

Turning "60" Didn't Hurt At All

To all our children and grandchildren, we want to thank you for your love and devotion to this family. Our hearts are overflowing with joy knowing how much you all wanted to bless us for our "60th birthday". For anyone else reading this letter, my husband John and I turned 60 years old in January and February of this year, 2009. Because half of our immediate family lives in Florida, our desire was to all get together for a family picture to include our two new grandchildren. Our wonderful children and of course their spouses, made this all possible. They purchased plane tickets and made arrangements for the pictures to be taken with a beautiful Florida setting. It was followed by a delicious dinner at a favorite Cuban Restaurant. A place sorely missed in Tennessee! It was truly special to all be together, including Great-Grandma Alba and the first meeting of new cousins baby Hope and Michael. ( she was definitely impressed with his full head of hair ). We spent time with relatives and in-laws and were able to celebrate baby Michael's Dedication at Church the following day. We had a wonderful party at Grandma Ana's and Grandpa George's house to honor Michael and family. I would definitely say that it was a very full and eventful week-end. The weather was beautiful and it was great to all be together, a rare occasion. So again to all our children, thank you again for making this the most memorable and painless transition. Our cup runneth over with love. Love Mom and Dad