Princess Claire and Wild-man Owen

Christmas 2011

2011-12-30T15:55:00.002-05:00

Oh Boy! It's been a long time since I've posted. I will post Christmas photos and then some fall ones too.
Since I started working, things like blogging have taken a back seat. I think we are all finally adjusted to me working , Owen in Kindergarten full time and Claire in third grade....which is more challenging for her.

We had a great Christmas. Santa has replaced the big plastic toys like play kitchens and little people farms with more practical gifts like blankets for movie watching, jammies, books, family games and other cool things.

I had the week off at Christmas, the school I work for closes. So that was fun.

Steve took a few days off but is saving his days for SUMMER!
On a side note, Steve's labs are good, he feels good. We have the occasional adjustment of medicine, which sometimes complicates things. But his overall kidney function is good.

My only wish is health for the upcoming year. What more do we need?

Decorating the tree

Christmas Eve Jammies

New Blankets for movie time!

Buddy The Elf. He moved the whole month and the kids looked forward to finding him every morning. His last resting spot, Christmas Eve, was in our tree. He's still there until we pack him away, and he is taken out again next year.

Christmas morning, noticed it's STILL DARK OUT!!! Claire is taking it all in, and realizing he DID come!

Owen checking out the stockings!

Looking at all the packages.

Owen got a santa hat, he put it on his list!

Claire asked for a gumball machine for THREE years and finally got one!

"Brother for Sale" Shirt

Dad in his new Pat's Hat!

Gramp in Owen's undies hat.

Looking at it all! Trying it all out!

Stud!

Reading Claire's "Choose your Own Adventure Book".

Owen and I hanging out.

Pumpkin picking 2011

2011-10-25T06:22:00.004-05:00

We went to a beautiful farm to get pumpkins with grandy and grandpa. What a cool fall day for a hay ride. We picked some extra apples too, the trees were loaded!

Claire even got a 1/2 green pumpkin, her new fav color!

Also, included are photos of her new green room. Goodbye pink!

Apple Picking at Honey Pot Orchards 2011

2011-09-25T06:40:00.000-05:00

A favorite time of year, for sure!

We tried a new orchard this year, which was really fun. Old apple trees with alot of charm. And tall ladders to get those apples at the top of the trees!

September 2011

2011-09-11T20:08:00.001-05:00

Well, it's finally happened. My baby is no longer a baby, and my oldest is also no longer my baby too. That is a very sad realization for a mom.

And I have reentered the workforce. Steve and I had a plan and we are sticking to it! When Owen went to Kindergarten, I would look for a job, stop babysitting and start making some REAL money! I am thrilled to have found a job 2 miles from the kids school. I am able to drop them off and pick them up.

I am still working on getting into the groove of my new life, and so are the kids, but we will find it.

Owen LOVES Kindergarten and says it's awesome. CLaire got the teacher she wanted for third grade, and she's really happy about that too.

And despite a recent headcold, Steve is doing and feeling great.

Happy June to all of you!

2011-06-22T06:32:00.000-05:00

June brought us many good things. Continued health for Steve, a visit from my Dad, Claire's last gymnastics, end of school for both, strawberry picking and Father's Day. All good things. I hope this summer is as good as last with lots of sun and I also hop it finds me a job for the fall, as both kids will be in school!

LAST DAY OF PRESCHOOL

STRAWBERRY PICKING

FATHERS DAY IN NEWPORT RI

OWENS FUN FAIR AT SCHOOL

Easter 2012 and some kitchen dancing

2011-05-04T20:33:00.000-05:00

Here are some photos of kitchen dancing and easter egg coloring. And, the EAster Bunny came. And brought less candy as requested.

March 2011

2011-04-06T13:36:00.000-05:00

Is it really 2011? how did that happen? I fell like I've been surrounded by sad stories and have too many people on my prayer list lately.
But March brought us some spring weather, and Claire's birthday! Alot happened this year...
she's lost alot of teeth!
She got a new big girl bike.
She's in gymnastics and is really good!
She made the choice to do an act in her school talent show. If you know Claire, that is NOT her type of thing. We are proud of her!
Her teacher said she's as "good as gold" but very shy in class. Certainly not at home!
She's still trying to get glasses with her "my eyes are blurry" story.

Here are some pictures from school, party and home.

Claire's poster for the All About Me board at school

Het letter she wrote about herself

Getting geared up for the new bike!

Party at home

On our way to the bowling ally for her FRIENDS birthday

Cupcake Eight! Green frosting and blue sprinkles by request. We are over pink and purple.

Opening presents

All her friends!

Claire and Arianna

Happy New Year 2011

2011-01-02T17:51:00.000-05:00

I am WAY behind on photos. Geez. I wonder why? This past 2010 brought alot of good things, and alot of craziness too! We are starting 2011 with Steve's health, and toasting to a year of health for everyone.

Here are Christmas photos and the adorable snowmen the kids built.

Our family Photo at the Tree Farm

Our tree, all decorated

Making Snowmen

This is Frostina

Frosty and Frostina

the boys watching GI Joe

Pirate Owen and Hannah Montana

2010-11-01T14:57:00.000-05:00

Halloween 2010, good times once again with our neighbors and friends!!

Pirate Owen

Our pumpkins!

Hannah Montana

Owen's friend Georgia was a pirate too!

All the guys

Paula and Steve

Ear Piercing for Claire!!

2010-11-01T14:52:00.000-05:00

Too busy to post lately. Claire got her ears peiced a few weeks ago. She asked us and we could not think of a reason not to let her. She's doing great in school and we figured we'd reward her. Her friend, Lexi, came along to be her support. She was very brave, didn't even cry, and is taking good care of her ears.

Vermont Anniversary

2010-10-14T20:33:00.000-05:00

Steve and I just spend THREE DAYS ALONE. We celebrated the peace, quiet, our 9th anniversary, attended a wedding, hung out with friends who also had no kids for the weekend and actually got to finish a conversation from start to finish. VT was beautiful and the time spent together was too. I hope for many more years together.

Apple Picking 2010

2010-10-07T07:40:00.000-05:00

I'm a litle late on posting the apple picking pictures. I think most of the apples we picked have been eaten! But that's the way our lives have been, a little late and forgetful. Which is not typically me. But better late than never!

Preschool at ECDC, Sept 2010

2010-09-12T20:37:00.000-05:00

Here are some photos of Owen's first day, 2nd year, of preschool. He'd rather go to Kindergarten, but he's got to suffer thru 1 more year of preschool!

YORK!!!!!

2010-08-19T19:38:00.001-05:00

As you all know, one of my favorite places to visit is York Maine. Here are some photos from a beach trip. We met John and family for a fun filled day of the beach, seafood, swimming and lots or reminiscing. I think Steve and Andrea were sick of hearing our stories about "when I was a kid......" and "growing up, I remember when....."

Summer July 2010

2010-07-14T07:03:00.003-05:00

Our summer so far has been action packed, super hot and busy. We've been doing alot of beach trips, pool trips, visits with friends and trying to keep cool in the 100 degree heat we've had. Here are some pictures from our trip to Fenway with the Breen's and some pic's of the kids in the yard.

Happy 4th, cooling off with watermelon.

Claire is getting soooooo big.

Owen's goofy face, my funny guy.

Can you feel the love?

New suit

FENWAY

This day turned out great....even though we saw a smidge of the game due to torrential downpours that flooded Fenway. We ended up in Fanuiel Hall for dinner, and to the harbor to see the boats. We all had alot of fun. And riding the T was an added bonus for the kids.

Yawkey Way Baby!

Owen at the park before the rains came.

We ate at Dick's Last Resort...known for their great fun atmosphere, rude waitstaff....NOT known for their good food. Larry, Owen and Claire with paper hats on

Down by the harbor, after dinner. Then home to Franklin.

It's Beach Time!

2010-07-02T09:01:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we met Steve's sister Gina in Maine for the day. I LOVE MAINE. Although, I am starting to realize that even though I love Maine, I don't love the cold water temperatures all summer. But, we had a great time catching up and the kids always have a blast with their cousins.

Eating Ice Cream at Brown's in York

The Whole Gang

The boys, digging th China

Ally, looking gorgeous!

Sandy Claire and Faith

The Girls

Jack, I love this picture!

The Breen Boys, love this photo too!

Trouble, trouble, trouble.

Look at that serious face!

Family Time

2010-06-26T06:42:00.000-05:00

Both my parents just left after visiting for a few weeks. My Dad was busy with his list of house projects and my mom busy with the kids. And now we enter the world of "summer vacation, no rules and sleep late".
While my parents were here, we met at my cousin Sue's for the day. The weather wasn't so great, but the visit was.

Chilly Kids after Swimming

The Guys

My Brothers Doggie Rosie

The John Cotes

My Mom and my cousin Sue

My brother and Mom

Pig Piling Max

The Whole Gang

Rachel, Elyse, Claire, Owen and William

John's Sweeeet leather Wallet I hgave him for Father's Day

It even said John A Cote to go with his Buick

Florida or Bust 2010

2010-06-04T06:51:00.000-05:00

Day 1....Downtown Disney shopping and the T-Rex Cafe with Gram. We sat in the Aquarium this time. Kids got their giant drinks and were happy. HOT DAY!

Day 2-3 were spent sick. Claire with a fever, Owen struggling with a bad cough. Stayed home, hoping and praying we would make it to Magic Kingdom on Day 4.

And we did, we made it! A great day. Both kids were tall enough to go on mostly everything they wanted. Only Claire and Steve could go in Space Mountain. Owen fell asleep right as the fire works were going off. Who can sleep thru those??? Owen can.

Days 5-6. Steve and I got away to a Red Sox game in Tampa, and stayed on the beach in St. Pete. So relaxing not having to tend to anyone but ourselves for once. We got out of the door on time, actually talked and read a magazine uninterrupted. The oceran was like bathwater.

We did a local zoo and Day 7-9 was Hollywood Studios! Another great day. I love Disney.

Owen was a little scared of this stormtrooper. Well, I guess I was a little intimidated by him too. I mean, he could have killed me with that gun!

The whole group!

Kids went on the Tower of Terror 3 times! It's a 13 story drop. A real tummy taker. But we did it!

Then, back to home. For another adventure another day.

Lilacs

2010-05-13T19:06:00.001-05:00

Here is a nice photo of our house, with fresh cut lilacs that are in blossom.

They smell so good!

Silly Stuff

2010-04-29T06:20:00.000-05:00

Bunny Day

2010-04-07T20:23:00.001-05:00

As we've done in the past 2 years ,we went to the Boston Children's Museum on Easter. NOBODY is there, so it's great. We've got the whole place to ourselves! And, of course, the Easter Bunny came that morning. Iwas hoping he'd bring more carrots than candy, but he didn't. He did bring less candy. So that was good.

Hot wheels and a new baseball glove! Woo-Hoo!

My Two Bunnies

Me and my kiddies

The Whole Family outside the Museum

A really funny picture!

Everyone playing!

Claire and George

Taken by Claire, not bad!

Easter Eggs

2010-03-30T19:13:00.000-05:00

Every year we color them, and every year I'm amazed how mixing the eggs in all the 5 colors can result in such great colors. See for yourself.

Artist

2010-03-25T19:31:00.000-05:00

I'm going to let you in on a little secret....Owen is a fabulous artist.

He's a whole lot of fabulous about many things like playing cars, giving kisses, being really loud, riding his bike. But the artwork he brings home from preschool is gorgeous. Yes, his teachers that urge him to try painting with foil, marbles, whisks, beads, fingers and brushes does contribute to the awesome-ness. But the color choices, and finished products he brings home with a big smile are priceless. I want to frame so many and am running out of space.

I've photographed many of them, and hope they convey the beauty and creativity of the actual prints. Enjoy.

Is it just random scribbling, or do we really have something here?

This is actually framed in our bathroom

His signature, with a little bit of a runaway letter N.

Super Seven

2010-03-22T15:20:00.001-05:00

SEVEN is.....well.....it's just big. It's no longer Kindergarten. It's no longer Princess presents or toddler toys. This year it will be cash towards a trip to the American Girl Store.

Steve and I cannot believe we've got a seven year old, who we can barely pick up she's so heavy, is reading chapter books to us at night, and is becoming more confident and outspoken for herself. And, well, turning into a young girl. Not an infant, not a toddler, not a little girl anymore.

Claire had a small birthday party this year, with a few friends (and cousins) from school. With brownie sundaes to top it off! It was awesome.

Happy Birthday Claire. I've finally come to terms you are not going to stop growning. We love you.

Birthday girl!!

The "other" girls who attended the party

Beading necklaces for the dolls and girls.

Faith, Claire and Ally

Everyone working hard

Present time!

Some Moolah for her trip to the store

Honey, the dog.

The #7 Birthday Sundae!

Jack and Owen showed up for dessert, smart boys!

Pretty Pattern Pizza

2010-02-26T20:42:00.001-05:00

A piece of Claire's school artwork was chosen by her art teacher to be displayed at the Franklin Town Hall, for Youth Art Month. She was very excited and we were very proud of her. Today, we went to see it on display and took some photos.

Good Job Claire! Here is the pizza.

And he keeps on growing.....

2010-01-31T10:59:00.001-05:00

Well, Owen upgraded from racecar bed, to bunks. And he had the choice of bedding (dino's, sports, and cars) and he chose sports. Which, I know, secretly pleases Steve.

His room went from a toddler room to a big boy bedroom in a matter of minutes, and he's really really happy. He chose to sleep in the bottom the first night, with blankets hanging down over the sides to create a fort.

And the second night he was up top, and liked it much better.

His fish also died right around this bedroom transformation, which Owen did not really seem to care about in the least. He was just happy Claire had also had a fish die. Because whatever Claire wants, he wants. He went from this....

to this...

Tooth Trouble

2010-01-15T09:31:00.000-05:00

I am Hurt. And yes she was.

Poor Claire, she had to have a tooth pulled yesterday.

Little did we know, she had a big infection below the gum and the tooth could not be saved. Luckily it was a baby tooth, even though it was not ready to come out just yet.

Initially Claire was happy, knowing that meant an early visit from the tooth fairy. Tooth Fairy = Money. Money = Toys. Perfect.

But the more she thought about it, she then realized they were going to pull the tooth out. Not wiggle it for days and days, as she had done with her first tooth.

We opted for the "silly" gas and it worked wonders. Claire didn't feel the needle or the pull, and told me she felt like she was in a rocket ship in space.

The recovery...not so good.

It hurt, it bled, she cried.

But today is a new day and the healing has begun. She was very brave.

Here's a photo of the picture she drew, the tooth and the reward! More $ for a tooth that had to be pulled.

the bad tooth

The Moolah.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2010-01-10T11:35:00.009-05:00

Hello to family and Friends!

I cannot believe my last posting was in November, sorry about that. With Christmas and winter and kids....well, I got a little behind. I even forgot that I took Christmas pictures until my mother casually mentioned "Are you going to post pictures of the holidays?" Oh YEA!! Oops, my bad.

So to re-cap, both kids were good enough to get gifts from Santa. Owen wanted a Monster Truck Remote Control and got one. Claire begging and hoped and wished for an American Girl Doll, and got One. Her name is Julie. 3 weeks later, she is still carrying her around, planning what outfits she's saving for.

Both kids got their first job, walking our neighbors dog, 2X a week. They are very excited.

Steve took the week off after Christmas. We did Disney on Ice, which we all loved. Sledding, going to the movies, sleeping late, and lots of family time. We all had a really great week together and sad to go back to school/work/babysitting.

We spent New Years with all our new found neighbors, and had a great time and laughs ringing in the New Year.

My New Years resolution is to paint the upstairs (which we've been "doing" for 2 years), get all our bills online (we still pay the old fashioned way, with a stamp) and to continue going to the gym and trying to get in shape.

Here's to a healthy 2010!

Christmas morning.

Julie!

New Jammies.

My new hat and scarf

Hot Wheels Boombox!

Monster Truck from Santa!

Happy Boy!

New sled! We went sledding Christmas Day!

Playing the Wii with Julie. STeve bought the Wii for the fam.

in the snow, in the yard.

LOVE this picture.

Claire Emma, Age 6.5

2009-11-17T13:03:00.004-05:00

Claire is.....changing.

She's writing and reading with ease, when last year it was not with ease or the drive to want to.

She's got a network of great girlfriends, some older than her, some her age.

She's losing teeth and wiggling the daylights out of the others. They don't stand a chance much longer in her mouth.

Her bangs are almost grown out and she is wearing barettes, headbands and piggy tails now.

The other day a friend of mind told me "your daughter is a much wanted, popular little girl. All the girls want to play with her."

And when I asked a friend of Claire's why this is, she replied " because she's cute and soooo nice." That made my heart soar and made us both instantly so proud. May it always be this way for her.

She's working hard at speaking up for herself, which is not easy when some of your friends are older girls. But she is doing it, and we are so proud of her for that.

She's asking lots of interesting questions, and we as parents are trying to find the right balance of too much info/just enough info. For example "so mom, do you just wish for a baby and then you have one in your tummy. Or what? How does that happen?" Anyone?????

Claire, our first born little girl who just keeps amazing us each day. A beautiful daughter and sister. May she always stay that way.

And here she is.......

Owen's Week Long 4th BirthdayCelebration Photos

2009-11-09T20:12:00.005-05:00

Happy Fourth Birthday Owen Thomas! Please Stop Growing!

Owen's birthday crown from school

The new train track addition STeve set up the morning of his birthday. He loved it!

His new and first transformer nobody could figure out.

Spidey!

Owen and his Halloween Pumpkin. Two pumpkins!

Mommy and her boy.

Owen's birthday party with friends and family.

His Hot Wheels Cake we made him from scratch!

Samuel and Owen chowing the chips.

Cousin Jack getting his face painted.

All smiles

Cake time!

Cracking open the Hot Wheels Motorcycle pinata.

Pumpkin Carving 2009

2009-11-08T20:25:00.000-05:00

Owen probably picked the biggest pumpkin in Massachusetts and wanted the meanest face too. Claire opted for the girlie heart face, no surprised there.

Claire's first year she carved most of the face herself. She did a great job and was really proud of herself too.

Concentrating

The boys in their "wife beater" t-shirts. Owen did not like the pumpkin goop. So Steve did all the work, Owen cleaned the pumpkin with a paper towel.

Goopy Girl!

Fairy Houses

2009-10-19T06:21:00.004-05:00

Old Lyme CT

We visited my cousin Sue in CT a few weekends ago, and went ot the Florence Griswold Art Museum in Old Lyme CT. They were hosting their first Fairie Exhibit. Click HERE to learn more about it. All were built by local artists into the side of an old tree , in a garden or somewhere on the beautiful grounds of the museum.

Here are some fairie houses and the kids with their cousins. My cousin, Sue, was one of the designerrs of a a fairie house. Claire swears she saw a fairie, but we all wore bells to scare them away!

A great fall trip with your kids, especially girls.

Pumpkin seeds on the roof.

the girls playing

Owen next to Sue's fairie house.

a ladder leading up to a little fairie chair

away.

First Tooth is a Gonner!

2009-10-12T20:02:00.003-05:00

Apples! Love this time of year.....

2009-09-28T08:11:00.008-05:00

Best photos are always taken picking apples!

Our scarecrow, Freddy.

Show offs.

Where's Owen?

A Pumpkin tree, who knew!

Adorable

Scusset Beach, the last hurrah

2009-09-13T19:09:00.004-05:00

We discovered Scusset Beach this summer, by word of mouth thru neighbors. It turned out to be our favorite beach....with cheap parking, snack shack, warm showers, jetty with starfish and sand dollars to collect, and great soft sand. All we could want and ask for.

The pictures below were our last trip to Scusset, and we went out with a bang. We went with neighbors and stayed from 10-8PM. It was awesome.

All the kids at Sunset

Swimming...is Owen going under?

Hooray!

Steve and Ted talking sports?

Alexa, Owen and Claire making jellyfish pools

Our beautiful 6.5 year old

Owen and Nick, always goofy together

A snack break

My Baby goes to Preschool

2009-09-08T19:24:00.005-05:00

Owen's LOVED his first day of school. He sang songs, sat in an oval, used the bathroom, played on the playground. I cannot believe he is in school. A symbol that my babies are gone and they have turned into children. Sad/happy all at the same time. Here's some photos to show it!

Owen eating lunch before leaving

Leaving.....

My baby, when he was a little tyke

backpack on, all ready

Going to check the mail

getting to school

In the parking lot...still smiling

and I was told he smiled the whole day long. Hooray!

1st Grade Survival

2009-09-01T16:15:00.002-05:00

HERE she is, survivor of first grade and can't wait to go back. Hooray!

Breakfast, all ready to go, hair neat.

photos on the deck as we rush to walk to school. Probably the only time we will be ready to walk.

Coming out of school. Hair a little messier than breakfast, but smiling!

And she's off to find her friends. Hooray, she did it!

Our Little Fireman

2009-08-12T20:39:00.003-05:00

Owen and Claire attended the Fire Station Tour in Franklin.

And it was Owen's idea to wear his fireman outfit.

I'm secretly hoping he is a fireman for Halloween!

trying on a real hat

Trying out the hose

listening to the fireman talk

In his full outfit, hose and all

Sitting in the truck with his friend Samuel

Fenway Day

2009-08-09T19:59:00.004-05:00

We spent Saturday in Boston....taking the train into town, attending a PawSox game held in Fenway, the North End for pizza. A gorgeous day. It was the first time the kids went to Fenway and I was brought back to my memories of attending many Yankees games as a child. (Boo Yankees, I had no choice, we lived in CT!!) And all I cared about was food, not the game. As did Claire and Owen. A super family day to remember.

Watching for the train to come

The boys going to get some FOOD!

the ole helmet full of ice cream for the low low price of $100!!!

being goofy

and goofier

Me and my boy

Claire's dramatic face

Wally the green monster

our balloon creations outside of the park

Tent Sleepover

2009-08-03T07:00:00.002-05:00

A while back, Claire and Owen had a sleepover in a pop-up tent in Claire's room. They were so excited. Here's some pictures!

Vacation Part #1, York Maine

2009-07-29T19:44:00.005-05:00

One of my favorite places to be.

Steve said I had the "Cote look" in this one.

Rinsing the shovels at sunset

Nubble Light from the beach

Hugs, and love.

Our Family Photo

After taking it we said "Owen you ruined it!!"

Only to realize it's perfect.

Chariots of Fire

Go Karts at York Zoo/Rides

Us in the fun house mirror

After the day at the beach

LOVE this photo and ice cream place. I went to Brown's as a kid and still love it just as much. Claire commented that Brown's was "really old" if I went when I was little, and it was still there.

Hippie Chick

Vacation Part #2 and #3

2009-07-29T19:32:00.005-05:00

The second part of our vacation was to visit our great Sullivan's in Maine. They just had a new baby, seen below who was so sweet I could have eaten him. And Owen got to ride the tractor, a big bonus. They should have named him Sully Sullivan, but they went for Isaac Sullivan. Just as good.

The Big Sister

Baby S.

And part #3 was North Conway.

Who's the one with the big head in the middle? Oh, that's a Breen family member.

I love this picture. Ally, Faith and Claire.

Owen out the window of the Cog Railway. A steam train that went UP Mt. Washington.

Mountains in the background.

Scary...

The kids

Owen "driving" me on the tractor.

Owen snoozed a little on the ride up the Mountain. It was a long ride.

Boys, Boys, Boys.

Claire at the top.

The train we rode up.

The moose we saw going over the Kanc.

6 years and flying....

2009-07-14T06:33:00.004-05:00

Here are some of Claire's 6 year photos I finally took of her. I was waiting for allergy season to pass, and also for the sun to finally come out. Both of which happened at the end of June.

Which is your favorite? I like them all. She did her own hair and picked out her own dress. Wasn't she just saying ah-goo and wearing diapers?

Finally some Summer Fun!

2009-07-13T08:28:00.004-05:00

Finally, some summer sun and fun in the yard. And some funny faces too.

Strawberry Picking

2009-07-02T08:25:00.004-05:00

Headed to the patch

A quick break to pee for Owen, and back to picking

Our rock star

The big boys

Claire's progress

Headed to find the boys

Cousins, School Events and the start of summer!

2009-06-25T19:55:00.002-05:00

Owen helping to mow the lawn. He was SO EXCITED to be helping.

Happy Father's Day! We all sported our Red Sox hats on our way to get ice cream!

Claire, being goofy.

Claire at her Kindergarten Show.

I cried.

Too shy to smile.

The Boys in Blue.

Claire, at her zoo trip with her teacher Mrs. Mitchell.

Claire and her best friend Sierra.

These are photos from our weekend with Jack, Ally and Faith. We all had a great time.

All the kids in the mini-van!

Claire, Ally, Faith, Jack and owen

The girls, getting ready for bed

Reading truck books to the boys

Our Yankee Doodle

2009-05-26T20:18:00.002-05:00

Here is Claire at her concert for Memorial Day. Wish the pic's were clearer, but you get the idea of how old she's getting and how pretty she is.

Happy May

2009-05-15T19:12:00.005-05:00

Here are some pictures of the kids in our new grass. It almost looks fake, it's so neon green. Our yard is really coming along and now is huge that we got rid of the garden in the center. And the kids are still loving their swingset, finding endless possibilities and imaginary games to play on it. It's proven to be worth the investment. Our neighbor even went out and bought the same one!

Where did they do?

Here are some pictures of the kids in our new grass. It almost looks fake, it's so neon green. Our yard is really coming along and now is huge that we got rid of the garden in the center. And the kids are still loving their swinset, finding enless possiblitites and imaginary games to play on it. It's proven to be worth the investment. Our neightbor even went out and bought the same one!

Grass and our Bike Riding Kiddies

2009-04-23T15:16:00.003-05:00

A mopey face from Claire

Monkeying around in the tree out front

#1 baby!

Owen's Favorite Things

2009-04-13T19:54:00.004-05:00

Owen LOVES
His Blue Blankie
His Blue doggie
His cars and trucks
Here's the proof.

He likes his new buzz cut too, it's soft. Like his blankie .

Bunny Day 2009

2009-04-13T11:21:00.007-05:00

Another year ....... the Easter Bunny has come, and he did not bring baskets full of carrots and ranch dressing as we promised he would if they were not good.
Phew, thank god he brought candy filled eggs, monster trucks, nail polish, gum, toothbrushes and cool shirts. What a bunny!
Claire even waited patiently for an HOUR while Owen slept that morning, before going downstairs to see of the EB had come. She woke early, he needed his sleep. What as sister.

We then headed to our 2nd annual Easter Day trek to the Boston Children's Museum. It's a great day to go, because nobody is there. We are not very religious ourselves, so the past 2 years we've done this. The kids love it, and so do the parents.
Here are some photos of our good time!

Preparing for summer boo-boo's with bandaids

sharing eggs

half asleep, now what do I do?

monster trucks, YES!!!!

Discovering the baskets

Owen filled an egg with Pez for the Bunny.

Didn't you know he loves pez?

leaving the baskets, notes, candy and carrots the night before

Coloring eggs

Serious egg decorators

a naked egg

Happy March, Happy Sun, Happy Birthday Claire, Happy Spring! HAPPY!

2009-03-25T17:00:00.008-05:00

It's a happy time. Spring is coming, Claire turned six and is excited about it, Owen can pedal, we are playing outside, and it's light at 7:30.

Here are lots of photos from the past few weeks.

Claire celebrated her 6th birthday. March is usually a hard month for her, and this month has been totally different. She's happy to be a year older, and she says she feels more serious and is not laughing as much. Although we 've got 2 months of allergy battles ahead, she's really starting to mature, read, grow and learn so much. It's good and bad , happy and sad all at the same time.

My baby, my baby. No longer a baby. Her pants are getting too short, her shoes too small and her brain too big. She bursting with great questions, funny sayings and READING!
Well, I could go on and on about her but the pictures will show how she's grown. I will try to post more often now that we are not so cooped up!

Pancakes and Sundae's on her actual b-day, March 24th.

Singing to Will for his 6th too.

Elyse, upside down

batter up, pink style.

Oops, the frisbee went on the roof Thank god John is tall.

Birthday party at thte YMCA

Cousin Power

Owen's Muscle Power, can you feel it from there?

Will's new digs for his b-day

Carrot tongues

family Party #2

Beat that Martha Stewart!!!!

Claire's poster for school. She was Super Kid for the week.

Monkey with helmet. Safety first!

New helmets.

YMCA gymnastics party

Owen at the party

can you do this?

Awww, so sweet!

Steve and Owen building a bird feeder together. Boy stuff. The girls went to the movies.

where have we been?

2009-03-02T19:59:00.005-05:00

Wow, it's been a month since my last entry! What have we been up to? Hmm, a whole lot of cold days and cold nights, scurrying from school, to the car, to gymnastics, to the house. But I can see the sun staying up longer at night, a sure sign that spring is coming.

This past weekend we went to visit some old college pals in Maine. Good times...not quite like we used to have back in the 90's in college. But good times in an older sort of way. Jamie and Diane were great hosts, with their gorgeous piece of land, beautifully redone house and of course, the cool orange tractor Owen loved. Thanks guys for a great time, lets do it again!

Owen scooping and moving snow with Sully.

Go boys!

Owen's initial reaction coming out of the barn on the tractor...pure, over the top excitement.

You could hear his "AAAAAAA" over the tractor engine!

Sully Sullivan

Owen resting at the frozen river

Who?

Di and having a rest and laugh too.

Hannah and Claire, eating endless amounts of snow

Maggie Terry, happy to have reached her destination

The Terry's

Jay, Baby Ben, Becky and Maggie

Danielle and Abbey....Brian and Baby Adam back at the house!

The Sully's with Baby boy on the way in June! Woo-Hoo, it's a boy!

Getting ready for our hike in the woods

Claire having a go on the tractor

Warmer Times

2009-01-28T09:59:00.009-05:00

Last week we visited my parents in Florida. It wasn't the warmest weather on record for Florida, but it was alot warmer than if we had stayed home in Franklin! The kids had so much fun all week and were not happy to come home to snow. They saw their first fireworks show at Disney, met the princesses, went mini golfing for the first time and were spoiled by their grandparents. What more could you ask for?

The whole Fam Damn-ly at Sea World

Claire and Owen getting geared up for a ride in my moms VW....with the top down!

Dying to go into the pool....the last day, the warmest, they did go into the water with clothes on. They are crazy! It was freezing!

Claire and her favorite princess

"Swimming" in the big bathtub. Too many bubbles?

The boat ride to Disney

Cinderella and the kids

Owen getting his Super Hero face on

The Princess Kitty.
Claire didn't talk for the longest time, afraid her make-up would fall off

Cool Cats

The Tea Cups. Last ride of the night, right after dinner.

The Castle at night, so pretty

Downtown Disney, at the T-Rex Cafe
Live animated dino's all over the place

We had lunch in the Ice Cave, very cool

The kids sitting in a giant T-rex's foot!

Who's the potato on the right?

Claire and Gramp on the Shamu coaster in Sea World

Snow, Martini's, Parents and Presents

2008-12-28T17:53:00.007-05:00

What a week! Busy busy busy.
Between the anticipation of Christmas coming, running out for last minute gifts (did we get the kids enough??), drinking too many cocktails, my parents arriving in the first storm of the year and the heightened voices and energy of the kids.....we are pooped.

Claire attended her first Nutcracker performance, nestled between her two grandmothers. She was in awe, in her fancy corduroy dress and piggy tails.....and loved every minute.

Maybe it will be a tradition.

My parents arrived from sunny FL, only to be greeted with 12 degree weather and constant snow flurries. They shivered and shuddered at the thought of how they used to live here. I did, however, catch my Dad shoveling in flip-flops. Owen begged for them to go get a haircut with him...."pleez Gram and Gramp, I don't want just mommy to come." So, after they both said NO, they said YES and got bundled up,

releasing little swear words under their breath only I could hear.

Suckers.

Christmas morning was so great. Paper was flying, presents were opened. It was perfect. Steve's parents came for a relaxed dinner that we ate in our jammies.
Now Steve is home from work, and we are doing nothing. Just being lazy, playing outside since it was 60 degrees today, and wondering if we should hit the stores for a TV bargain?

We did join the YMCA so we can all get fit and trim for 2009. Motivation and determination are what we need for the new year. And lots of it. And maybe an IPod? I might get laughed at with my 80's Walkman tape deck.
Here are some photos from the past few weeks!

Steve out shoveling.

a rare, quite snuggle between the two

AH-HA! Mr. Florida shoveling in his flip-flops

An "angry" picture Owen insisted on

Oh, I love this one.

Our night in the snow, Owen could barely walk!

ooooooh, it was cold that night.

Owen getting a head scratch, he wouldn't let Gramp stop

Who doesn't love that?

Getting cookies for Santa. Somehow, after his bath, Owen found a party hat to wear.

I really have no idea where.

Claire, writing the letter. "Dear Santa, this wreath is for you. love claire. give each reindeer a carrot"

the goodie plate, yum.

Owen waiting patiently while Claire writes her letter.

Ahh, the final masterpiece, as she reads her work. Her first year she was able to write her letter to Santa. Thank god for public school.

Owen departs in the back ground, his patience ran out!

Stockings ready for stuffin'!

New Trains!

a pink guitar!

The next Julia Child's with her easy bake oven. It makes real quality goodies!

How Times have Changed

2008-12-07T18:45:00.008-05:00

There have not been many pictures taken in this house lately. With December comes alot of indoor playing, alot of movies, cold weather and dark evenings. The kids are really missing playing outside too.

We did get out this weekend for some fun in the sun....oops, I mean snow and to get our tree. It's funny how our tradition (OUR meaning Steve and I) of picking and decorating our tree has changed. No more cutting our own tree at a nice farm....assessing the trees, which is the best, tallest, greenest. Instead it was "I like this one!!" " No I like this one, let's get this one!!"

No more quiet Christmas music playing, drinking wine, lights dimmed, putting the ornaments on with care. We used to look at the ornament, remembering when we got it and going back in time to Maine, Hawaii, Vermont, California.

Now our trips consist of the grocery, Home Depot, and doctors offices. Do they have ornaments from those places? We should get them.

This year, Owen was part of decorating. Which took on a whole other meaning. He carried at least 3 ornaments at a time, trying to place them all on the same branch of the tree. Not really understanding what they were or how to do it, but loving it. And knocking 3 down, as 3 went up.

They were happy, kids music played, lights were blazing as Steve and I watch with our 4PM cocktails. We did manage that.

Here are some photos from the past few weeks. Cheers!

Checking out the lights on the Franklin common.

Can you find Jesus in the blue Old Navy coat?

Elves, and Claire and Owen are working.....making toys.
boy power

Reading our Christmas books

snowball fight!

decorating

Mr Moose

every year he comes out, it's new all over again

POOF...Tree's be gone!

2008-11-21T18:05:00.006-05:00

No, sorry, no pictures of the kids this time.

But I had to post pictures of our trees being taken away.

We have been waiting for four months for our 2 dead trees to come down in our yard. One over the brand new swingset, the other eerily leaning over the deck/house.

The tree company finally came, and what a job they did. Here's some pictures of the tree cutting process. And no more worrying for us during those cold Franklin windy winter nights. One of the "joys" of home ownership. We can no longer call the landlord and ask him to come cut down the trees. Now we must research, hire and pay for it.

Happy Birthday

2008-11-20T09:08:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to Auntie Andrea (18th) and Uncle John! (today!)

Today I Wish

2008-11-20T07:50:00.002-05:00

Steve worked closer so that he could come home for lunch and see the kids for more than 3 hours a day
I wish money wasn't the base of every discussion
I wish Claire wouldn't roll her eyes at me like I did to my mother.
I wish Owen will always tell me to "have a good sleep mom " at night, when I leave his room
I wish my kids would not grow so fast and I could slow it down a little when I want to.
But fast forward thru a tamtrum over corn on the cob
I wish I could buy Steve a truck
I wish I didn't get a pit in my stomach when my kids are sick
I wish Steve had 3 weeks of vacation, not 2
I wish I would get a little bottle of yummy colorful pills in my stocking, each pill filled w/ patience
I wish for soft jammies for Christmas
I wish Reese's Peanut Butter cups were as healthy as a salad
I wish someone would take my years of digital pictures on our computer and put them into nicely organized albums

Bust mostly these are not so important things,

all my real important wishes have already come true.

Owen's Birthday

2008-11-13T19:53:00.006-05:00

Here are some photos of Owen's actual birthday and his party. We made it thru his party, then all plumeted into sickness for the past week. We are just digging our way out, finally starting to feel human again.
Owen had a great birthday. He scored lots of new racetracks, new matchbox cars, new books, and had all his friends over to share in his celebration.
He's happy to be three and had NO SHOTS at his Dr appointment. He's healthy, happy, growing and gaining at the right rate for his age.
We couldn't be happier.

Pinata in the basement...it was rainy outside!

Ally, Faith and Claire
The big cheese

relaxing after the party

opening gifts

Blow!

Our at home party

opening his new fire station from Gram and Gramp

Happy Halloween and Happy 3rd Birthday to Owen!

2008-11-03T12:38:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday to our big boy.
Today, he's a little sick with a cough, but is really holding out for the cake Daddy is bringing home. He's a little confused about his party, since it's not until Saturday. He thinks a house full of people are coming over tonight. But no, we will celebrate just the 4 of us, as a family.

We did let Owen open gifts yesterday, since we were all home. He calls himself Rock and Roll Owen with his electric guitar. He wanted one, he got one. And loves it. He could be the next American Idol! I'll get some video this week of him.

The concert Steve and I had to watch

Rock On Owen!

Any more in there?

Also, here are some Halloween pics.

Our scary dragon and beautiful bride.

Costumes hand selected with alot of thought and care.

And yes, Owen did fill both bags.

GRRRR!

Any takers?

He can Pedal!!

2008-10-31T08:23:00.010-05:00

Owen finally learned how to pedal! Here's the proof and some other really cute pictures of him. Last chance to see Owen before he turns the big 3!

Cousins and Pumpkins

2008-10-28T19:34:00.004-05:00

Pumpkin Carving 101

Class Description: Pumpkin Carving where the parents do it all. Cut, clean out, carve, everything. While the kids try to touch the knife and the parents say "don't do that" the whole time. At the end, you will have carpel tunnel from all the scooping and cutting.

the Finished Product, an A+

The Class of Carvers

Claire caught a dragonfly over the weekend.

Then Owen squeezed it, it flew away and was never seen again. I love the wonder on her face. It's perfect.

Climbing trees on our visit to CT last weekend.

Will, Age 5, posing for Gap

All the kids

Boys and Blankies

trying to get a decent picture is like, well, trying to get a decent picture from a 2, 5, and 7 year old!

These jammies were not planned!

Crunch Crunch

2008-10-20T18:58:00.006-05:00

I do love this time of year for all the pretty leaves, pumpkin picking, hay rides, the sound of crunchy leaves under my feet. I do NOT, however, like the cold mornings and having to already turn our heat on.
Here are some fall photos to remind those family members in warm climates what they are missing. I'm sure they will remind us what we are missing, come January when it's a blizzard.

My Big Boy

At the patch
getting back on the hayride...what for me!!!
the Munichiello pumpkins
Our Biggest Pumpkin

Me and my babes

Look at that John Deere, oh yea baby!

the farm foliage

The Yard Garden

2008-10-14T06:00:00.009-05:00

When we moved in, the garden looked like this, in bloom. We both thought "isn't that pretty" with all it's flowering plants. But then as spring came, the kids started playing, we realized that it was really in the way, made it difficult to cut the grass, and was an obstruction in our yard. It made our big yard, seem tiny and chopped up.

So, we started removing it.

First we cut down the two 15 foot burning bushes, which are now on the Massachusetts banned list of shrubs because they are so invasive. We posted the other two shrubs on freecycle, and a wonderful gardener named Marna came over, dug them up and placed them in her own yard.

You can see below how big the bushes were, behind the kids.

A view w/ the burning bushes cut down.

Then, Steve and Don dug out the roots of the burning bushes which went about 6 feet away from the root ball. And each root ball weighed well over 100 lbs. Someone from freecycle came and took those away too, for their yard.
And Steve cut down some trees in the yard too, which fell across the garden!

We posted, again, the retaining wall and someone came and took that away, leaving just dirt.

Steve cleared most of the leftover dirt this weekend, into the woods. He was very excited to buy his first wheelbarrow. So now, it's mostly cleared. We just need some loam, and to seed it in the spring and we are good to go.

WHAT A PROJECT! Thanks to freecycle.com, craigslist.org, and Steve!

Some Updates

2008-10-08T21:37:00.004-05:00

Some things that have been going on around here.

1. We are starting to clean our garden area, to make lawn. Just lawn.

2. Claire is loving Kindergarten so much, she doesn't want to come home.

3. Owen told me the other day, while digging with his shovel, that he is really "workin' hard for his money" with a very serious face. He had his "working shoes" on while doing that too.

4. We got a new swingset and I will post pictures of that tomorrow. The kids love it.

5. Fall is here...it was 37 the other morning and we are trying not to turn the heat on. It's hard, but we've managed to only do it once to heat the kids rooms upstairs. It's dark shortly after dinner and that is sad too.

6. Steve is snoring on the couch. I have to go wake him and make him go to bed. Most likely he will not, and end up coming to bed at around 4:30. What's the point?

The swing set

Fall photos, even though it's really warm

Claire can go so high!

Avery, the little girl I baby-sit. She loves Owen's trucks!

Owen raking leaves
Claire took this photo, pretty good huh?

.

Our "Romantic Getaway"

2008-09-25T06:33:00.006-05:00

Steve and I treated our recent trip to Colorado as an anniversary get away...we are coming up on 7 years! The kids went to Steve's sisters in CT and had a blast. We headed, ALONE, to Boulder Colorado for a whirlwind weekend of a good friends wedding, good food, beautiful views and some time together. It was a super time....until our flight coming home was cancelled and we arrived alot later than expected. Except for that little glitch, everything went great.

A little scenic drive

who's that stud?
some deer in the woods
a little town we stopped at

Some scenery shots

Steve cutting the rug at the wedding

The Bride and Groom (Eric and Holly)
Steve, Jamie, Eric and Brian
All the PSC people

Apple Time, Must be getting close to fall

2008-09-14T19:17:00.006-05:00

My most favorite pictures of the year are always in the apple orchard. They always come out so good, the kids are happy, they are eating apples they shined on their shirts. I just love it. Here are another years worth of pictures at the orchard.