Happy 28, MIM!

Happy birthday to a real favorite.  One of the things I admire about you is that you "took over" very early in life.  You knew what was good for you...before I told you.  You took ownership, of you.  And you're so that way now, of course.  Determined, goal setting, disciplined.  You're driving all the time.

Enjoy the first day of school, today, on your birthday...at the number 2 school for MBAs, UChicago's Booth.  You got there because you worked hard and knew it would be good for you.  And it will be.

And you give me the gift.  I get the pleasure of sitting back and nodding, yes, son, great idea.  What you're doing is good for you.  Good for you, my second born.  Second to none.

The Maloneys!

The wedding of the year occurred last Saturday (10.12.13) when Matt married Kelly.

There's so much to say and so few pictures on my phone.

I've consoled myself about my lack of documentation - that's a good sign, really.  I had the time of my life.  I felt like a queen (hair, mani, pedi, facial, makeup...) and I watched our prince marry his princess.  It was magical.  I had no time to look down at my phone (certainly no pockets!) so I'm hoping the photographers come through...

It was a series of events, that I do not ever want to forget:

Wednesday - All day spa date with Kate
Thursday - Dinner invite from the happy couple - a thank you dinner that included only the 4 parents, held at Vino's - the restaurant where they had their first date ten years ago this month
Thursday late - Karaoke with Laurie, Steve and Dan (among others) at Miguels
Friday - Bridal lunch at the Cedar Rapids Country Club
Friday pm - Rehearsal and dinner at Shores Event Center, complete with heartfelt speeches from Shawn, Jeanne, Karin, Laurie, Steve, Dan, Barb, Kelly, Matt...and me!
Friday late - after party at our hospitality room
Saturday am - Griddle with the Groom! for the men and Bagels on the Bridegroom! for the women/children
Saturday - beautiful, modern, classic 2 pm wedding and reception at The Hotel at Kirkwood Center
Saturday late - after party at our hospitality room
Sunday - Newlywed Brunch at our home and later gift opening at Krapfl's

Two favorites

Happy birthday, Matt!

Happy 26th birthday, Matthew Ives Maloney!

I may be touring the Acropolis today (and hopefully snacking on some Spanakopita), but I'm thinking about my middle one.  I am missing our commute conversations but one of the memories that is keeping me smiling this year is how you let me in on the planning and the secret that you wanted to ask your girl, Kelly, to marry you.  And I know that special girl will do what I used to on this day, on September 27 - and I love her for that.  She will continue my tradition - of making you feel loved and special.  Thank you for letting me into your world this year, for letting me help you dig through the stones (oh, and for all the coffee on those excursions), and for including me in the shopping trip on the day you made the big purchase.  I am so happy for both of you that you have found that one true thing - the only thing that really matters - and am proud of the smart, kind, sweet, capable man you have become.  I am honored to be a part of your journey.  Sending you love from Athens today.  I love you, Matt!