Blackmans on the Web (log)

More holiday photos. Had a great time seeing Meg, Gustavo, David and Daniel while we were in Florida for Christmas. The boys are growing fast! We got to see them all on the way down and on the way back we met them and the Bittls at the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersberg. Really neat museum. Highy recommended.

Centennial High School had their first Homecoming on Saturday. First because this was the first year that there was anyone to “come home” since last year was the first class of graduating seniors. Previous years events were always referred to as “Forthcoming”. Sam and Alex both went. Sam with Gabby and Alex, well, Alex went with two girls. Don’t ask. Anyway, you knew I’d have to take a few photos before they left. Even convinced Gabby and her parents to come over so I could get a picture of Sam and Gabby before they left. Once you get to the first picture click to see the other two.

Had a great visit with the Hermansons (Peters Parents / Ann’s Sister and Brother-in-Law) and the Proebers (Amy’s Mom and Dad) a few weeks back. They were all here for a confirmation of baptism services for little Oliva. We had a chance to get some nice photos of everyone. Amy’s Sister Abby and her husband John along with Amy’s brother John were all here as well.

The Blackman side of the family tree all met up in Akron, OH on September 10 for a loving memorial service for my grandma Polly Blackman. Grandma had a powerful influence on nearly everyone she touched. While I’m sad for the loss of my grandma, she left a lasting legacy and I’m grateful for the wonderful memories I have of our times together. Family: Click on image below for a photo gallery of images from the weekend

Thought it was time to put the drums up for sale and get some more camera equipment. Bought a studio light, some backdrops and a backdrop stand. Set them up in the theater upstairs to play around with. Sam was being my test model when Alex came in and, well….the silliness ensued!

Had a GREAT surprise party for Alex last Friday night. Ann connected with several of his friends a “conspired” to get them to invite some of his other friends to Strikz bowling alley. His buddy Bobby convinced him to go bowling and we all yelled surprise. He had NO clue. It was great!

Traveling south of Jacksboro, TX on FM 4 we ran across this rickety old bus painted like the Texas flag.

We had a great weekend celebrating Sam’s confirmation. Sam was very patient being the center of attention!Aunt Meg flew in from Tampa to be Sam’s sponsor. Peter and Amy came over from Fort Worth. Grandma and Grandpa came from Greensboro. Uncle David came from Charlotte. The Calvano’s (minus Joe) were here on Sunday along with our friends the Toledo’s.Thanks to everyone for being a part of this important event in Sam’s life. (PS – we missed you Alex! –on a band trip)More photos are available by clicking on the picture below.