Mom absolutely adored her brother Ralph.  The ultimate gentleman and guardian, he was so loving and protective over his sisters.  I loved listening to them talk -- it was always with such sweetness and joy.   

After this picture was taken, we noticed that it was framed such that Mark can be seen next to Cole in the picture on the wall behind us.  That was a happy surprise. We showed her and she couldn't believe it -- made her very happy.

Fun day up in Nederland.  This carousel is hand-crafted, and it's beautiful -- has a 1913 Wulitzer organ -- old school.  Mom didn't want to sit on a bench "like an old lady"....she wanted the real deal! 

This was taken at Cole's 4th or 5th birthday party at our house in Upland.  Cole was the apple of his Amma's eye -- and he sure loved her back.  She watched him every Friday -- which they both looked very forward to. 

Wow -- Elyse, Vern and Ralph look so glamorous!

This picture was taken when mom lived on the Strand in Oceanside.  She was happy there -- I think she really felt free.  And she didn't even give me a hard time over the blood-red lipstick i was wearing...  ; )  Heather is so young -- just a baby!

This picture makes me so happy!  This was taken at Heather and Andrew's wedding rehersal dinner. She was so happy to participate and was treated so well.  She had a blast joking around with Heather's future father-in-law, and truly enjoyed herself that night.  It was followed by a ride home in the convertible pictured on this site -- top down, of course, Cole in the backseat, and we really put the pedal to the metal (at her request).  : )  Her arms were up in the air and she said she felt like a kid again.  What a great night!