Bryce's Graduation

Bryce Dale Allen, MFA

Bryce in his Cap, Gown, and Master's Hood

Bryce with Mark Varns, Theater Department Head 

Team Juvenile

Back: Michael Frohling, Jessica Frohling, Beth Clark,

Steve Ackerman, Christine Jacky

Front: Jessie Crouch, Bryce Allen

Who is this motley crew known as Team Juvenile?  They are the third year graduating graduate students from the Theater Department at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.  They first met in August of 2007.  They came from different backgrounds, but they became more than just friends, they became our family here in Carbondale.  They have worked hard, suffering through homework, late nights, hurricanados, fire ants, and thesis writing to earn their Masters' Degrees.  I am proud of all of them.  They did it together.  At many points along the way each of them threatened to drop out and give up their educational dreams, but they supported each other and stuck it out.  I don't know how well we will keep in touch, but I know that over the past three years they have touched my life, and the life of my husband and son and I want them to know that I appreciate what they have done for me and my family.  As we leave school behind and strike out on our own, I wish them them best of luck.  We will miss you Team Juvenile!

Mother's Day

The Angel of Hope

"Each day, hope anew"

This is the precious Mother's Day gift that I got from Owen this year.  Bryce said that he picked it out all by himself.  Whether that is the case or not, it is a precious reminder that each day is a new day.  Often times as a mother I have to remember this as I start each brand new day.  I can't base a new day upon the previous day's mistakes or sucesses.  I have to get out of bed and face the world, and the circumstances and experiences that I face each day, with hope that no matter what happens I can become a better person from them. 

Swimming Lessons

Look at this cute little boy.  He just finished his swimming lesson.

Owen and I took a Parent & Tot swimming class this winter to help Owen learn to not be afraid of the water.

Our friends Leslie and Harvey took this class with us.  Both boys have really enjoyed the class.

Owen has learned how to kick his legs and paddle his arms in the water.

His favorite part of swimming is climbing up the ladder, carefully standing on the edge of the pool, then jumping into the water.  He enjoys this so much that I have to make him kick and paddle to the other side of the pool before he can climb up a ladder again.