Shrimp Boil

For the past few years one of our native Watertown friends hosts a shrimp boil. This year would be no different. The Charltons decided to continue the tradition and I am soooo glad they did, it was fun and delicious! It was beautiful weather, great friends, my sister was there, the kids had a blast, it was perfect! Thanks to the Charltons for hosting, it was awesome! A great way to celebrate the 4th of July!

Periscope Project

On Friday, Aunt Laurie came to visit and Jake was so thrilled. On Saturday morning we headed to home depot for their monthly kid project. This month was a periscope. Jake did a great job as usual and Lindsey was entertained by all the hammering and of course, snacking!

Major Castana

Here are some pictures from Lee's promotion ceremony. The only picture I don't have is of Lee's bruises. It is an Army tradition, a crazy man one if you ask me, that once you get promoted your comrades can either shake your hand or punch you. That's right, I said punch! So of course, guys being guys, about 20 of them gave Lee a good shot to the stomach or chest. He is pretty sore but took it like a man! Way to go babe!

Watching the Fireworks

Jake and I ate a funnel cake and ended up watching the fireworks with the Martinos and Bradfords. It was super fun, he was exhausted though, after battling the traffic we didn't get home till 11pm! Can't wait till next year!

Happy 4th of July to our friends and family, especially Lee! We miss you and love you Lee! Thank you serving our country! We are the Home of the Free Because of the Brave--that means you!

More Mountain Fest Pics

Kicking off July!

What a better way to kick off July than at MountainFest on Fort Drum with our friends! On Thursday Jen and I took the kids to moutainfest where they jumped and slid on the bouncehouses, ate lunch, checked out some really cool helicopters, hummers, MRAPs (now I know what these are Lee) and ran off some energy. Lindsey hung in for a while then decided to take a snooze, must be the BOB stroller! That night our neighbor babysat Lindsey so I could head back to Drum to watch the fireworks with Jake. It was nothing like watching them last year in Maine with Lee, but we will look forward to seeing them again next year with him and Lindsey!

Congrats to the Best DAD, HUSBAND, and SOLDIER !!!

Congrats to my amazing husband, you really are our HERO!! Lee got promoted to Major today and if anyone deserves it, it is you! You have sacrificed so much and given 100% to your job and we are so proud of you! We love you and miss you and can't wait to celebrate with you!