Academic Associates

Three years ago, our family moved to Massachusetts to chase some dreams. We made a decision based on what we thought would give our kids the best chance to grow, knowing there were no guarantees.

Not long after, we took an informal college tour at and sat in the stands watching a team of players we did not know, on the campus of Ricca’s alma mater.

Today, played his heart out on that same court.

From the stands, my texts to and were a running celebration. First five points of the game. Big threes. Smart defense. A charge taken. Strong drives to the hoop. Made free throws. Assist after assist after assist.

Patrick would call these mom goggles, but any observer could see the impact he had on both ends of the floor today.

While it was a loss for the team, it felt like a win for the Ricca family. Basketball opened the door that led Patrick to , a community that has shaped him in ways we never could have imagined. Over the past three years, he has grown not only as a student and athlete, but as a person who leads, reflects, and truly belongs.

SPS has been one of the greatest gifts of Patrick’s life, and in turn, one of the greatest gifts of ours. We are deeply grateful for the people and community that helped shape his path.

Because all along, it was never just about basketball.

2025 was a year of loss, lessons, and big emotions for the Ricca family, but it also brought us Bella.

Our little light, our joy-bringer, our reminder that even hard years can make room for beautiful additions.

Here’s to healing and to new beginnings.

Watching you step into a brand-new school, a brand-new team, and a whole new chapter has been one of my proudest moments as your mom.

Starting over takes courage, but doing it with your autonomy, persistence, and heart is something truly extraordinary.

I see myself in you more and more… and then I see all Rick. You’re becoming the absolute best parts of both of us, the independence, the grit, the compassion, the drive.

But here’s the truth: This was ALL you. Your decision. Your bravery. Your willingness to step into the unknown and build something new, from scratch.

Brendan, this fresh start is only the beginning. I’m so proud of the young man you are, the teammate you’re becoming, and the way you’ve handled this transition with maturity far beyond your years.

New school. New team. New chapter. Same incredible kid, becoming the best version of himself. 💜

I always knew I wanted to be a mom, and somewhere in my mind, I may have pictured pink dresses and long talks. But life gave me two boys, and it’s been the greatest gift.

I’ll never forget watching run the bases in his very first Little League game, smiling from ear to ear. That was the moment I realized how lucky I am to be a boy mom.

Since then, there have been a million reminders. Watching Patrick and Brendan play the sports they love, and seeing their joy will always be one of my favorite parts of motherhood.

Today, on the way to , I told Patrick I couldn’t believe this would be the last time I’d ever watch him play soccer. He said, “Well, you can always come watch me in the men’s league when I’m 50.” And I promised him I would.

Patrick, watching you grow into such a dedicated, committed, and incredible athlete, captain, and young man has been one of my greatest joys.

SPS Senior Night ❤️⚽️

Some years test you like this one did.
But through every storm, you stayed kind, strong, and steady — the soul of our family and the calm in our chaos.
You love with quiet strength, lead with grace, and show up for us every single day.
I’m forever grateful for you — my very best friend, my husband, and the most incredible father there is.
Here’s to a year that gives back even half of what you’ve given to all of us.

Happy Birthday, my Riccaface.

I love you.
❤️

There once was a boy with a dream. ❤️🏀

There is nothing in this world that brings me greater joy than being their mom. From little boys with backpacks to young men chasing big dreams—Happy Sons Day to the two greatest. ❤️

🌈🐾 Sadie 🐾🌈

Our sweet Sadie girl crossed the Rainbow Bridge. 💔

Sadie wasn’t just our dog — she was our family’s joy, our comfort, our protector, and our teacher. She was our family’s savior from the pain of losing Malachy, carrying us through our hardest days with her cuddles and her steady presence.

Her life was far too short, and our hearts are broken. But we know she left this world knowing only love, and that brings us comfort.

Run free now, Sadie-girl. 🌸

Chase all the frisbees, swim in all the waters, and eat all the Nanie prosciutto you want. Until we meet again, we will carry you in our hearts always. ❤️

It’s hard to be sad when is so damn happy. Ready to have his best year yet. And yes, I miss him already. ❤️