Van Evera Family Blog: April 2009

Although she just turned 23, she will always be my baby! Michele is such a wonderful daughter, beautiful, smart, and doesn't take any crap from anybody! I love that about her. I'm very proud of her and all of the things she's accomplished and done in her life.

Mexican Fiesta at our house the night of her birthday! It was a lot of fun! Tyler grilled carne asada - delicious! Hope this year brings lots of joy, happy memories, and love in your life Michele - we love you!!!

Mandy, Nichole, and Michele

Can't have a Mexican Fiesta without the
sombreros!

Tyler and Michele

What a good brother - he's a sweetheart!

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you . . .

Tyler, Baylee, Michele, and Maddy

Whoa! It's been a long time since I've updated - sorry about that. There's been a lot going on. Glenn's Dad passed away the end of February and we were gone for a week and a half to Oregon. Since then, I haven't uploaded any photos at all until this past week-end. Work has been really busy for me; Glenn's work may go out on strike (A T & T) - they are working without a contract right now while the company and union are at the bargaining table. I'm thankful they are still working. Michele turned 23 on April 2nd - she had a Mexican Fiesta at the house that night. Lot's of fun! Then there was Easter . . . then my boss surprised me with a trip to Nashville at the end of April - I called it my "Urban Experiment." I was supposed to meet Keith Urban, but it didn't quite work out :( But my mom and sister drove up from Georgia to hang out with me and we had a blast! None of us had been there and we did all the touristy stuff - trolly tour, Country Music Hall of Fame, walked a LOT, saw a concert at the Ryman Auditorium. I really had a good time being with my mom and sister.

These next few months are going to be busy as well - camping mother's day week-end and Hawaii in June! BUSY!!!

Here are some photos from Oregon. Glenn's dad was cremated and had a military service. It was awesome to see and experience - the servicemen snapping open the American Flag and then folding it, and the 21 gun salute.

Morgan, Nate, and Joan were there; Duane, Peggy, Kristy, Dakota, and Elizabeth drove there with Robin, Brittney, Ashley, and Adele; Melody and Jerry drove up with Michele and Tyler; Valerie flew in from Michigan; and Marie and Brian flew in from New York. Tim, Kia and family were so welcoming to everyone. Kate and Zack were not feeling well - they were sick and went back to their home early.

Of course, Aunt Val and I found where the closest casino was located and off we went. Called Seven Feathers Casino, it was an hours drive away on a curvy back road. On the way back, a deer ran right in front of the car and I had to slam on the brakes! It was a heart thumper!