the birthday boy

Our little boy Beaker turned one yesterday.  He has been such a cool pet to have this past year.  Every time I walk out into the living room where his cage is, he starts to squeak and 99% of the time he only does it for me.  I guess he knows who feeds him!  I just love that little guy. 

Happy Birthday Beaker!

2011 ~ A Year in Pictures

These 16 images tell just a small part of the life and

times of One Sassy Momma.

1.  B’s first ambulance ride

2.  Beaker “the new dog”  

3.  “B” turns 11 

4.  My cousin Daniel came to town for our Cousin Johnny’s memorial service

5.  “B” reconnects with his cousin Garrett

6.  Road trip with “B” to South Carolina for Garrett’s Marine Corp Boot Camp Graduation

7.  My nephew the Marine

8.  Reconnected with my amazing cousin Cathy

9.  Went to my first Phillies game in the new stadium and it was AWESOME

10.  “B’s” first day of 6^th grade

11.  My first tattoo ~ Patience Fortitude

12.  My parents on their wedding day ~ 50 years ago

13.  My Cali Cousins came in for my parents 50^th Anniversary

14.  Loving the time spent with my cousin Cyndi

16.  ONE SASSY MOMMA!

Life ...

Wow, I can't believe how long it's been since I've last posted. I could explain, but I don't think my blog could take that much. Let's just say that life has been crazy, with me as it's leading character.

One great thing that happened since I last posted, is that I've been able to reconnect with some amazing cousins and continue to build an amazing relationship with my cousin Wayne. I struggle with relationships and to be able to open my heart to these amazing people has been such a blessing to me.

I mentioned that I have been able to continue to build an amazing relationship with my cousin Wayne. Wayne ... you are most amazing person and I love that you're always there to give me that needed "bear hug". How can I thank you for just being you? All the words in the world wouldn't be enough, so all I can say is, "I love you Wayne".

Cathy ... what can I say? You are truly a blessing in disguise. Your candidness is addictive, your humor contageous and your heart ... WOW! Your one of the best things that has happened to me in this crazy year, but like I've told you, "Your my kind of crazy!"

My Cyndi Lou Who! You are such a class act and a lover of life. I really enjoyed seeing you. It was way to long. I look forward to many more visits, both here on the east coast and out in Cali. I already miss you!

Daniel and Ginger, what can I say? I think this picture says it all. Daniel, you are one of the funniest people I know and I can always count on a laugh when your around (and a possible wrapped body part!). You're a great listener and have an truly honest spirit, which is rare in this day and age. Thank you for listening and for just being you. I can't wait to come out and see the Big Red Trees! Ginger ... I loved meeting you - finally! You are a breath of fresh air and a joy to be around. I enjoyed our talks and look forward to may more. Brent misses you both, too!

Mark, you are an amazing man and such a good model for what a good husband should be. You protect your family and I love and admire that about you. I also love that you can put Shaun in his place! What a bonus!!!

Wow, what a post! I guess it's time to get off my soap box!!! But like I said when I started this post ... I have had the unique opportunity to reconnect with some amazing cousins and needed to talk about them. I really appreciate the people in my life who make my life better and every person I mentioned is truly a blessing to me! Love you all!

Cousins

Last Sunday we went to my brother and sister-in-laws house to celebrate my niece and nephews 12th birthday. It's always a great time when we get together and the kids have so much fun. This year was no exception. We had a great dinner and a yummy cookie dessert. As you can see by the pictures it was all smiles and a little chaos!

The whole clan: Jake, Jack, Chase, Brent, Cory and Dani

The Taraska Boys

Dani sporting some killer peace sign shades!

Cory and Brent.

I have another picture of these two in my house. I'll have to post them together so you can see how much they've changed. It's pretty cool.

One of the many group shot taken.

It took a few minutes and my sister-in-law Alli to wrangle them in!

This one's a keeper!

Cousin's at Work!

I just love this picture of Brent and his cousin Cory. It was taken last weekend when we went to visit my brother's family. Brent's little cousins got scooters for Christmas that were still un-assembled. Brent decided to put the scooters together (my brother isn't the most handy when it comes to tools) and Cory was right there with him helping. They got most of both scooters put together, but they did need Bobby's brawn to finish the job. Good teamwork!