The Gagnier's

Field trips and February

2012-02-18T04:41:00.000-08:00

February has been flying by. We have enjoyed a few field trips, one out to the Utica Art Museum. Kevin has a great aunt who lives out there, and we were able to meet up with her and spend the day with her. She was a huge help too!

Here the kids are putting together their own modern art design. I think the kids did surprisingly well and were pretty interested in the paintings and exhibits.
But after some time they just needed to blow off some steam, and we went to a fun indoor playground before we drove back.
We had fun with Valentines Day this year, with Daniel and Rachel making different Valentines, our annual heart hide and seek game, and making some cake. The frosting was kind of runny, but it was fun all the same.
A day in the life....Daniel and Rachel are working on a project together and Noah can play pretty independently. The space behind the kids we put some dry erase paint up, and it is fun drawing on the wall. If one thing I am learning is to go with the flow a little better, and the kids will learn and are learning everyday.
We went on another field trip to the Museum of Science in Syracuse. It is becoming a favorite with the hands on things the kids can do, and it is close that we can meet up with Kevin during the day. I don't like the two hour parking limit however.

It has still been a mild winter, and find myself wanting just a little more snow. But we have been able to get out a lot this winter and I can't complain. I am looking forward to friends coming in next week, a few more museums to visit, and Daniel's approaching 6 year old birthday!

Monthaversary

2012-01-23T15:32:00.001-08:00

Today is Kevin and my Monthaversary. We have been married 9 years and two months. It was something I watched my parents do. Every 30th of the month they would see who could say happy monthaversary first, and that person would win. I don't know if there was much of a prize, but just maybe some friendly competition. A friendly competition I have won most of the time, yet he seems to win when it counts.

I got thinking we will be celebration out 10th anniversary this year, and I am chuckling to recall where we thought we would be by this year. Or what we thought we could do for it. Like 10 years ago large, extravagant trips, and worldwide travel would be commonplace in our life....and it is not. During our last anniversary I was sick with a fever, and that was a new way to celebrate, but it made me think I need acknowledge the important things more, and not just wait for a certain day to come around.

So here is my challenge this year, to highlight on this blog the things I appreciate about Kevin...hopefully posting on the 23rd of the month. Technically I guess I have missed a few months out of this year, but with all the posting about the kids and the changes in our lives, I want to acknowledge the man who is the biggest part of this families success, and that is my very own husband. So check back over the next few months and see what I see in Kevin.

A New Perspective

2012-01-11T11:38:00.000-08:00

I am pretty proud of myself, I uploaded these pictures from my phone. Granted I do not have a smart phone yet, but I think we'll upgrade when our contract is renewed.

The kids have been a little sick, from colds, to stuff up noses, we have been a little busier than usual. But it is also nice to have some down time and rest time.

Here we are at a play date with some friends. Here Daniel is with his first admitted girlfriend. He just likes to play with her toys.

The weather has been unseasonable beautiful. We broke out the sunglasses and played in the yard. I am bracing myself for the snow, but until it comes we will get out of the house!
This year so far has already brought a few changes, and for me it is a new viewpoint on life. While having some fellowship time with some friends, Kevin and I were prayed for, and it came out that I had fear in my relationship with God. And it was true. I was afraid to talk to God about my situations and life because I was afraid of His response. That it was going to shake and change God if I really opened up to him. Life hasn't been the easiest, or what I would have expected. With the walls breaking down in my life, I am realizing a new perspective on God and His love. What life as a Christian really means. Who can separate us from the Love of God? We battle not against flesh and blood, that He loves us so much that He gave His all...and my prayer this year is that I can share His love with my family and friends and receive it in a deeper way.

Merry Christmas and to a Great New Year.

2011-12-26T10:10:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Here is what has been going on since Thanksgiving. Here are the boys in front of the house, we were able to decorate this year, and that was a highlight.

We have been visiting the Syracuse Science Museum, which has been very fun, and here Daniel is in a heart :-). It is really fun watching them get all into the exhibits.
My cousin delivered her second little girl, Annabella. She is so peaceful, and looks a lot like her sister.
Here we are getting our tree and wreath. Notice the lack of snow?
Here are the kids Christmas morning. We went to a Candlelight service on Saturday and gave the kids PJ's. We don't do Santa Clause, but give the kids each three toys to represent what the wise men gave Jesus. I don't have anything against Santa, but that was on of my family traditions. Kevin filled up the stockings, one of his family traditions, and it was great videoing it all for future reference.
I hosted Christmas for the first time, and this was the first time we had it at our house. The Turkey came out perfect!
Rachel was at the hip helping out and trying to cook with me. I also enjoyed using my mom's cookies recipes and making all of the cookies I remember making with her.
So this season is still bittersweet. My Dad and sister left today for Iowa, for a year, and even though we will see them a few times this year, I felt like I was just getting used to all of us being together. I do know the change is good, and know God can use the time apart, as much as He can use the time we have together. 2011 was definitely a time of adjustment and change. I am looking forward to getting back into shape, running a few races this year, watching the kids learn and grow, going camping and enjoying even more of upstate NY. God willing, I am ready for 2012 and all that it will bring.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-30T10:59:00.000-08:00

After having a horrible sickness on our anniversary and spending it in bed with fever, I thankfully (by the grace of God) was well enough the next day for us to travel to north Philadelphia to spend Thanksgiving at Kevin's brother's new home. It was a quick 4 1/4 hour trip, and we had a great time. Well, better for me because it is so easy to travel without diapers, pack-in-plays, and strollers. Here are the kids with their cousins Lila and Juliette.

We were about an hour away from the Crayola factory, so we made the trip and the kids really enjoyed it! It was very interactive, and Daniel got a picture with the world's biggest crayon.
It was in the same building as the Canal Museum, and the boys almost enjoyed that just as much. They loved navigating their boats through the locks.
Daniel and Pepere playing one of his Christmas games. He is in love with Legos now.
Here is another picture of the cousins in the front yard.
And now we are now getting ready for the Christmas season. We plan on getting a real tree (a first for us), decorating with lights, another first, and spending Christmas home...for the first time. In a few days we will mark the anniversary of us moving out here. What a difference a year makes!

You Can Prepare the Horse for Battle

2011-11-09T17:43:00.000-08:00

But the Lord brings the victory ~ Proverbs 21:31

We are almost ready now for winter. We have the truck, the wood, the extra food, and a little more wisdom than last year. But in all that preparation, God is the one who is helping us get settled, putting the right people in our life, and directing our steps.

Evening wrestling time with Kevin.

Here Rachel is talking on the phone with Aunty Nay. All the kids are doing better sitting for webcams, or talking on the phone.
Buddy and Noah carving pumpkins...notice the same hooded technique.
Michael is now 6! It was last year for his birthday that we came out for the job interview, and it is amazing to reflect on the last year.
We just finished up our 8 weeks of co-op for the fall, and tomorrow night they have the kid's showcase. It has been a very quick 8 weeks, and I have really gotten to know a great bunch of ladies in the LEAH (loving education at home) group. They are from all over the county, and a wealth of information and encouragement. With that being said I am looking forward to getting into a groove with the kids over the next winter months.

We are heading out to Philly for Thanksgiving and will soon be celebrating our 9th anniversary. I am saying that now because it seems like I can only pull together a once a month post. Here are the highlights until I write again.

1,2,3,4

2011-10-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

One soccer player, well at least the first time we got successfully through an organized sport. He also is doing very well on piano lessons and played his first song today.

One pile of wood, we cut and split, and put into our basement. Not enough however to fill up our basement but for our first year it is a good start.
Two dancing princesses. Rachel had Hadessa over for a tea party, and it was so cute to watch them play together.

Three, third times a charm. We ran out of diapers and started potty training, Noah is lots easier than Daniel was. He still has his accidents, but it has been a little over a week, and we are doing well.

Four. Here is our newest four year old. She loves our evening chats, and often has so much to say she stumbles over her words because she can't get them out fast enough.

We got a truck last week and sold our car, so we are getting set for the winter time. Talking about change of seasons, there is change in the air with my dad needing to take a job farther away for a year, and then retire. It is a tough change, but if there is something that brings you to your knees and closer to God(right Sandra?), then it is alright, and you know you can persevere.

Once Upon a Time

2011-09-28T14:33:00.001-07:00

We went to a fall festival for my birthday. I love enjoying the fall. We have been to lots of orchards, eaten lots of apples, and played in lots of leaves. The kids at a corn maze...Daniel got us out!

My favorite picture of the kids right now...yes they are all naked...
Kevin and I doing our first 5K together. We finished in under 30 min, not bad for us out of practice runners.
I wanted to get this post in before October. I am finally feeling a little older, but learning to grow out of perfectionism. The more I know, the more I know I don't know. Looking forward to posting next family highlight...Rachel's 4th birthday!

2011-09-11T11:38:00.000-07:00

I have no pictures but lots of thoughts. Last weekend I had a great get away weekend with one of my best friends in DC. It was truly relaxing and fun to reconnect with her, without the distractions of life. Well, my life. It is a beautiful city, I enjoyed the buildings, museums, and food. I drove past Chantilly, and thought sooner than later, there would be some more good reasons to visit. I guess it also made me realize I am not as much of a city girl as I thought. Or maybe God gives you the grace to live where He puts you to live. I did enjoy all that cities have to offer, and do plan on visiting again, was just as happy to have some one else do the driving, and parallel parking :-)

On the flight coming home I had the most interesting conversations on the plane. I wasn't looking for a God talk, I wanted to work on the new stitch Jenny had shown me with my knitting, but the young lady had some very pretty sparkly shoes, so I opened up the conversation. She got talking about her family, her religion, and how nobody should home school their kids. It turns out she is a part of the Pentecostal religion that is pretty strict, and she was working through the things she was brought to believe, like wearing pants is a sin, and her love of God and what the Bible says. I tried to encourage her with comparing what she was taught with the nature and character of God, and go back to the basics of prayer and the Word. We had a good talk, and as often I think about her, I pray for her.

That leads us to this past week, my first week of Kindergarten. It was good, although we all seemed to get a bad cold halfway through the week. That is life. Daniel still has soccer, and he is starting music lessons this week. I found a closer dance class for Rachel to be a part of, and Noah is entering the terrible 2 stage. Maybe he is not so terrible, but he is very questioning, and I am not used to a boy this age talking to much and interested in everything. I need to stop complaining about it, these stages don't last long, and these are good issues to have. I am glad to have this blog to put my thoughts, one day I want to print it out for me to look back and remember God's faithfulness, in the big and little things.

Make all you can, Save all you can, Give all you can - John Wesley

2011-08-31T10:48:00.000-07:00

The trip to VA was such a blessing. The wedding was truly blessed, the kids did great, we had lots of help, I got to have quality time with the bride, and it all came together. As only God can make it, if you know what I mean.

We were refreshed by connecting with some folks we knew from college and were still in the area. Ron, who married us back in the day, and his family were still in the area, and it was a God thing to connect with him, pray with him, and have the encouragement we needed.

The weather was perfect on the wedding day, here is the whole family up to date. Not the best candid shot, but you get the idea:
Thankful to have the family picture too...without too much stress! Daniel still sleeps with the pillow he used as the ring bearer.
Some bubbly fun in the grandparent's cool tub...
And of course we come back hitting the ground running. Daniel had his first soccer game this past Monday, and scored! I got it on video below, it is hard to see, but it was him.

And now I am excited about a girl time in DC with my best friend from college...Kevin will be on parent duty for just two nights. I am looking for some time to recharge, and then it is onto school. Ready or not here we go!

Turning the Corner

2011-08-08T18:40:00.000-07:00

A strange thing happened to me this past weekend. I took the kids to the beach, and I enjoyed myself. Kevin was at work, it was just the three and me, and we had fun. Then we went to the zoo as a family, and I didn't need my stroller. The kids all walked, and stayed close. I didn't really know what to do with my hands, well I was able to pet an elephant, which was cool, but it hit me. My kids are growing up. Noah is asking to use the potty, Daniel is a huge helper, Rachel is a great encourager, and they are growing up. As we turn the corner on summertime, and sprint to the finish, I think the end of this summer will be bringing some new and exciting times. Not all easy, but good.

Here Daniel is looking out from one of our newer rope swings.

Rachel loves frogs, and catching them, and here she is showing one off.
She loves to paint, and has such a joy with her arts and crafts.
Here are the cousins at the zoo last week. We were celebrating Hadessa's birthday, and it is a joy to be around for these occasions.
I love the quote at the top of this one: Social Animals
Noah is chatting up a storm, and I need to remember to video him, because that raspy little voice will continue to change.

No photos on my camera

2011-07-25T12:01:00.000-07:00

As I have been meaning to update my blog, lots of things have been happening, I just didn't take any pictures on my camera to document them. For example, we went out to MA, had a great visit with old friends, celebrated Kevin's grandparents 60th wedding anniversary (the only event I do have photos of thanks to Rene), and met my new niece, Juliette.

Rachel being very careful holding her new cousin.

Memere and Pepere Gagnier, with all their great grand kids!
Me and Claire :-), Kevin's other Memere
Saturday night is Spaghetti night at the Gagnier Household, and it has been that way for 60 years.

Other events that I do not have documented, Daniel had his first dentist appointment here, with two wiggly teeth, Noah talking up a storm, Rachel's room coming together, Daniel biking like a champ, Rachel and Noah swimming in the pool, all the zucchini and beans growing in the garden,and a weekend at Sackets Harbor with just some grown up time :-). Makes me want to get a boat...someday... I am enjoying every moment, just didn't have my camera on hand.

Happy 2nd Birthday Noah!!

2011-07-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

Look at that little face! After surviving a week without Kevin last week, we welcomed him back, along with Rene and Di. We were able to celebrate the 4th of July with Kevin's parents and celebrate Noah's birthday with them. We went to Lake Ontario, Oneida Lake at the beach there, put together a workbench, fixed up a lot of projects around the house, and had a great time! I enjoyed making a strawberry rhubarb pie, and showing off my other rhubarb recipes.
Memere reading to the kids.
I made an alligator cake for Noah's birthday...and it came out pretty nice! Rachel and Hadessa are putting the final pieces of the cake together.
All the kids seemed to enjoy it, and we had a nice barbecue in the backyard.
I haven't had too much to post lately, or at least haven't had my camera out. The summer has been fun so far, trying new places with the kids, enjoying icee's in the backyard, gardening, jogging, and just laying low. I have been trying to read more, and Di taught me some of the basics of cross stitching, so here is another thing to enjoy. We painted Rachel's room and are working getting it set up for her, and I am excited about starting potty training for Noah. Well, excited to be out of diapers sooner than later!

Lessons from the Garden

2011-06-08T11:33:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying the outdoors for the last few weeks, learning that with the severe winters you enjoy the nice weather when you can! We are all slightly bronzed with the sun, and have our fair share of bug bites to prove it. We enjoyed the town's Memorial Parade, the lake's sandy beaches, the strawberries in the side yard, and gardening and outdoor fun as much as possible.

Safety first Noah!

We attended a birthday party at the Ft Rickey Game farm in Rome, NY and the kids enjoyed the hands on feeding and petting the animals.
Here is our garden in the back of the house. I have been noticing that pretty much everything I planted has been growing, and I am amazed!

As I was trying the weed in the heat today I found myself wondering why I was so surprised that things were actually growing. We worked hard to get the land cleared, pick out the seeds, plant them, and maintain. The only thing I couldn't control was the most important part, the growing of the seed. God in His wisdom used this illustration to point out a weakness that I have. I try very hard to keep control of the things around me, which I am sure has it's place, but overall God is still in control of everything. I have to admit, as much as I am ready for homeschooling, the thought of it scares me. I can prepare the material, the space, and set the goals, but only God can see inside the children's heart and grow and teach the most important parts. And there is where I need to let go, and let grow :-)

An Ode to a Hall of Famer

2011-05-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

Rachel has been doing dance lessons for the last few months, and in two weeks she has her first recital. She is a pro! Here is a preview to a future post and more on that later.

Two weekends ago we were able to make a very quick trip to VA for Kevin's sister Renee. She was inducted into her college's hall of fame for her career as a basketball player. We were able to fit in some wedding stuff, I met her awesome fiance, and it was a break with just one kid. I was so proud of her! She has accomplished so much, and humbly thanked God and family for all that she has been able to do.

Here's Daniel with some one on one time with the Gagnier's

In the mean time I have started to really plant the garden and we have been enjoying a lot of outdoor time, and just take it one fast day at a time. Here we are enjoying some time at the lake. Not quite the ocean, but there are some good beaches we will check out this summer.

Morgan, Morgan, here we go again, how does your garden grow?

2011-05-09T11:54:00.000-07:00

We are going to do a garden, and I have started the seeds. It has been amazing to watch the process, that what you put into the ground, with water and sunlight, will grow. We have planned out where we are going to have the garden now, and have some trees coming. Nothing like jumping right in!

I also have to admit, I can't take any credit for most of the landscaping at the house. Here are some beautiful tulips in the side yard.
This is the side yard inside the fence. I have some before pictures to compare to, and it is amazing how the flowers are coming in. It has been a beautiful illustration of not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord. I didn't do anything to create such beauty around me, but God is showing me how to rest in it and enjoy.
I have been enjoying the birds to that stop by. I have a hard time catching some of the bigger ones on camera, but I have seen blue jays, blue birds, cardinals, red winged black birds, and a variety of others.
The cousins are enjoying my brother's tractor.
We have been enjoying the yard and for Mother's Day went to Salmon River Falls. Growing up here I had never been before, and it was a great morning with Kevin and the kids. I love family time, I think quality time is my love language, and I have been getting that on the weekends with everyone.

Next weekend is a quick weekend to VA to see my awesome sis in law get inducted into her college's hall of fame, and I am excited to meet her fiance. The time is going fast, their wedding is only a few months away.

Catching up, and Ketchup

2011-04-27T11:06:00.001-07:00

The last few weeks have been pretty quiet, it has been the weekends that are full of activity. Two weekends ago was my grandmother's memorial service that went very well, except for the very rainy weather. It was a little harder than I thought it would be revisiting the cemetery less than a year after my mom's death, but I feel a fresh start now and ready to move forward. That includes enjoying the kids and our family, taking care of my health, continuing to look to God daily for strength!

Last weekend we spent Easter weekend with Kevin's brother in Delaware. It was great to have some one on one time with them, and I look forward to meeting our new niece in the next few months. Traveling with the kids was great for the most part, and we'll really be good to go in another year or so with Noah. We spent an afternoon at the Children's Museum in Wilmington, and the kids loved it.

Noah and Rachel are the same weight, which I can feel every time Noah asks to be picked up.

Daniel got a tent that all the kids enjoyed as a birthday present.
Here Daniel is playing at the water table at the children's museum...he spent most of the time there. I love seeing the concentration on his face.

Noah and Lila are only a month apart. They seemed to have fun with each other, but also knew how to get at each other.
Rachel loved their pets, especial their dog Zoi....maybe a dog will be in our future?
Kristin took some great Easter pictures with her camera, and here is on of the kids from our camera.

The weather is finally turning around. Since moving here we have experienced one of the worst winters, and rainiest Aprils on record. I have some plants started in the back room and am making plans for a garden and doing some more things on the house.

Also, this past Tuesday was the last of the Co-op that we were apart of for the last 8 weeks, and it was great! They have a showcase this Friday night that Daniel is going sing in chorus in, and we look forward to participating in the co-op in the fall. I also look forward to meeting and getting to know some other mom's in the area.

Oh, and Ketchup is one of our favorite condiments (as in the title).

Rope Swing

2011-04-13T12:25:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying the weekends with family BBQ's, planning gardens, seeing what is growing around us, and letterboxing. If you haven't heard of the last thing then you really should check out this website (www.letterboxing.org). These are boxes placed all over the world (literally) and there are hints and clues to find the location of these boxes. You have a name and a stamp, you stamp and leave a note on the notepad you find, and put their stamp on your notepad. Here are some pictures from our adventure near the lake.

This is at a beach at the lake...not quite the ocean, but there is sand and will be worth checking out when it is a little warmer.
We have a wonderful fenced in yard with the playset...but we also found a rope swing in one of the trees behind the fenced in area. It has been fun swinging on that too, and Daniel wants to get a tire swing, maybe down the road.

The April shower are bringing in the May flowers now, but on the sunny days we spend most of the time outside!

A Chimney Fire

2011-03-27T16:55:00.000-07:00

Last night was a long night. I had gone to bed around 10, and a short time later someone was knocking on our window downstairs. We were both scrambling to get glasses/warm clothes on and a man and a young woman were there alerting us that there was fire coming out of our chimney. Kevin had put some product in the chimney to help keep it clear, but it caused more fire instead at this instance.

We thanked them, they left, and after putting out the fire in the cellar we called the fire department and my dad as the fire died down. I didn't see any other problems, but they told us to get the kids out because it looked like there was smoke coming from the attic. I took the kids up to my dad's house and when I came back there were a few fire trucks, a police car, and an ambulance. They were being cautious, but I stayed parked outside of the house and was in a slight daze with what could have happened. They found there was a crack a few rows from the top of the chimney that made it look like there was more of a problem than there was, but it was better to be safe than sorry, and we learned a lot about our home, how things work a little better out here. They gave us the ok and we went back in, but won't use the wood stove again until things get fixed.

It got me thinking what if we lost everything. What if this was one of those worst case scenarios. I am thankful someone was there to wake us up, the kids had a place to go, and the local authorities got there in a good amount of time. But it is a good reminder again how fragile things are, and it is by God's grace that we get through life. And we are also smarter because of it.

Daniel is 5!

2011-03-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

Before I chat on how life changing it feels to have a five year old, I'll share a few different pictures from the last few weeks. Kevin's company had a party to celebrate being in Forbes top 100 list of companies to work for, I think they were like 78th in the country. They had a nice semi formal event and Smashmouth come and play, and we made a fun evening of it.

For the last few weeks we have been involved in the Homeschooling Co-op. Here we are in the van on the first day and the next picture is of Daniel's class. It has been very refreshing being in this group, it is a very involved organization, and there are tons of activities. This week I took the older ones to a nature center where we learned how to make maple syrup, through the LEAH (loving education at home), and it has helped me get focused at home. I also see a wide range of families at different spectrums on the homeschooling journey. It has been great.

As I type the kids are playing in the backyard. It is sooooo great to have a yard the kids enjoy playing in, and as the snow melts it is exciting to see what is growing out there! We have some strawberries in the yard, beautiful flowers coming up, and I am in the beginning stages of a garden. It has been a long time since I even attempted a garden, but I have a lot of experienced folks around to help along the way.
And yes...I have a five year old in the family now. It seem the hardest with Daniel in the sense I am the most sentimental about him. He has such an amazing view of the world, and his creativity is endless. He is the best older brother Rachel and Noah could have, and he is just really opening up, but can be so focused. He is into Transformers now, and I decorated a cake for him, it has been a few years since I had done that.
I was thinking about Matt 6:34 where it says do not worry about tomorrow, and just how to take it one day at a time. The time really goes quickly, and I am so thankful for the time we do have with family and friends, and who God has put into our lives!

A day in the life...

2011-03-03T07:54:00.000-08:00

After....

Here are a few after and before shots of the painting done in our room. Kevin did an amazing job, and I enjoyed taking a stab at the painting and color choosing.

Here are the kids doing some fun things...
Kayleen really helped me get organized in my "homeschooling/computer" room. I am very thankful to know where everything is now, and have a whole new motivation and group of ideas. ( Thanks Sandra for the table and rug!!!!)
Rachel is in a dance class now, and she did wonderful for her first time. It is a 45 minute class of ballet and tap, and I am happy that for now we have a class so close.

Love those smiles...

Our first visitor

2011-03-01T11:16:00.000-08:00

We were happy to have Kayleen, a friend from MA, come at the end of last week for a visit. She was our first visitor, and it was so nice to have the space to welcome her. She took all of these pictures on her cool phone. I do have pictures too, but I haven't uploaded them yet. Rachel would go and visit her at 4 in the morning just to cuddle (sorry about that). We went to the zoo, mall, and just enjoyed the snow :-)

This was the first time in a long time I had gone to the local zoo, and I think a membership is in order. She also helped me get a little more organized and set up at the house, so I put her to work! It was refreshing to me, and it gets me thankful for the people that God has put in my life. I know that everyone reading this has had a huge impact in my life, and that no acquaintance is merely chance.

Rachel has her first dance lesson tomorrow, and Kevin and I have a semi-formal event that we are looking forward to attending with his work.

What can happen in a year

2011-02-21T18:35:00.000-08:00

I was having a hard time finding some good pictures of me and my mom, and I ventured onto a Disney World trip about a year and a half ago. My what has happened in a year...

I know they say the first year is the worst after losing someone. All the little holidays, all the moments that happen, or things that change, and yet we made it through one year. I can say that I think of her everyday, and wonder what she would think about our move, our home, and how the kids are growing, but I also know that she wanted us to continue enjoying and growing. But it still hurts.

It's been a year,

we are still here,

and where did our other one go?

In heaven above

looking down in love

it's still tough for me though

The time went quick

the trials were thick

but they days still went by

In the good times and bad

My sister, brother, and dad,

were there as I wanted to cry

And now time to pick up and move

where the Lord will chose

and give Him daily my life

for it is not totally my own,

we can't do this alone

My strength is only in His might

Looking forward to summer

2011-02-15T13:36:00.000-08:00

I am excited for summer not just because of the warmer weather, but my sis-in-law is engaged and will be getting married in VA in Aug! So here's to a reason to get the winter weight off, celebration with family, and a chance to get back to VT and see some old friends. In other news things just keep moving along, most of the boxes are unpacked, we got our cars switched over, getting all the details ironed out, and I am excited that I will have a MA visitor next week. In the mean time, here are some moments with the kids and their cousin. We love having Michael around.

I found a ginger bread house for sale, and the kids enjoyed putting it together.

New Pet

2011-02-04T11:51:00.001-08:00

We are starting to settle in to this new home, the boxes are slowly going away, and space is opening up. Last weekend we enjoyed some time at a little train show, and it was fun to watch the kids enjoy it.

Here are the cousins playing.

It starts off cold in the mornings, especially when the fire goes out with the wood stove, but the kids are champs at getting cuddly and making the best of it. Here is a shot out of the window in the stair well.
And here is Leena, our new pet. She did come with the house, but she has been a very good first pet for us. Very low maintenance and good temperament. The kids love her, and she helps keep your lap warm.
There is still the laundry list to do, and I am still getting used to the country lifestyle, but it is a joy to watch the kids grow and settle in. Daniel is expressing himself a lot more, and is doing well in the big brother role. He can spend hours outside. Rachel and Noah are also talking more and more, and it is interesting to watch them all interact. Time to go now and empty out another box!

New Home

2011-01-27T12:01:00.001-08:00

The movers came last Sunday, with the weather at 8 degrees, and my Dad, brother, and cousin, we were able to get all our stuff in a few hours. There were lots of stuff, and I have a few boxes I am filling up to give away now. In the last month and a half or so, the kids have outgrown a few toys, utensils, and no more sippy cup or pacifier for Noah. The kids run around the house everyday, and I think we are all getting used to the idea that this is our home, and we will be here for a while. Daniel has been loving the time with his cousin, and Rachel keeps talking about painting her room pink. The house came with a little cat, Leena, and it is so fun to watch the kids with their first pet.

Now I find myself needing to stop and smell the roses. We are in a place that we have been hoping for a while for now, and I can't keep looking to the next project, or realistically be where we fully want to be for a while. And I am ok with that. The boxes will get put away, the walls will get painted, the snow will leave eventually, and we will still be here. I was blessed with help getting my kitchen together, Beau has been helping with the kids a lot, and it is a comfort to know my family is close. We got plugged in right away with a homeschooling community, and the kids are signed up for a co-op in March. It will be fun to see how all this stuff settles out, and a huge praise to be at this point right now. Time to be very thankful!

A few more days

2011-01-10T11:51:00.000-08:00

Snow...snow...snow...I am surrounded by it right now. Kevin and the kids love it, I am getting used to it again. Here they are enjoying the snow. Daniel loves it, and would be outside everyday...if it wasn't so much work to get three sets of children outside for a little bit with all their equipment, but that will get easier too.

Here is a picture of Noah, I remember as a child the snow being taller that I was.

That is the RV we are staying in, and my dad clearing things out.
Daniel has thrived in the extra space and his cousin around.
Here we are playing in the RV with some of the Christmas toys
So if you don't mind, I am going to use the rest of this post as a little bit of therapy. I posted on facebook that my grandmother isn't doing well, and that is still the case. We are talking about each day she could pass away. I went over and helped her today, and she was non-responsive. Previous to the last year, I have been blessed with life. With three beautiful children, with all that comes with a young family. The last year has been mostly death. I struggle that I wasn't here with my mom's passing, and watching my grandmother go through this has brought back much of that feeling. I believe the Bible, and know that my mom, is in a better place, and know that my grandmother will be as well, but it has been humbling to be apart of death this year. To realize life is so fragile, and everyday is a gift from God. To have little control of when God would bring any of the ones I love home to be with Him, and to have peace in God's Sovereignty. It is certainly another level of faith and trust.

That being said, we will be moving into our new place this weekend. Another chapter of life will soon be here, and I am so grateful for this journey to even bring us to this place. I can't wait to show pictures, but in the mean time, will you continue to lift my family up in prayers? Psalms 116 says that precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.

Pictures from Christmas

2011-01-02T20:54:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I feel negligent on my posts, but now that I think I have the internet figured out, we'll try to do better. We had a great time in New Bedford with Kevin's family for Christmas, although I think we brought the snow with us! The kids had a great time with their cousin, and all their second cousins, and it is amazing how big Kevin's family is getting. I feel like the "old one" in the group, just because we are almost fully though the young kid stage. The kids did great traveling, and here are some snapshots from the trip. I borrowed my father in law's camera, it was really nice, and I really enjoyed the quality of the photos:

Rachel and her cousin Lila, it was so fun to watch them interact!
Daniel wore that sweater just a few short years ago...
Rachel definitely lets us know what she is thinking...
Daniel and his grand Memere
All the kids Christmas morning, I did have better shot without Rachel's foot up, I just picked the wrong one.
Family photo...all the kids are licking lollipops, but at least they are all happy.
We had a great time at a Celtics game the Wednesday before Christmas, and it was just an easier trip overall. We had a very low key New Years, and now we are getting super excited about moving into our new home in just a few short weeks! I am starting to get used to us being here for the long term, and am starting to let myself get excited about putting down roots and really settling down. We have so many visions of planting a garden this spring, enjoying the outdoors, and painting walls. In the mean time, we are getting good snow gear and trying to enjoy the snow and outdoors, and just the quiet time before things really start to happen. My new favorite pass time is cross country skiing! I'll have to get some pictures of that up.

Transition

2010-12-14T10:04:00.000-08:00

We have been moved for about a week and a half so far. The packing itself went well, well that it is over. We had twice as much as they anticipated, so it took all day on Saturday. It was too late to make the whole 5 hour drive that evening, so we took a break along the way. Kevin began work on the 6th, and I think the transition is going well. He is actually in DC this week for some training, but hopefully after that there will be minimal travel. We even made it to his company's Christmas party at the Museum of Science and Technology in Syracuse. It was fun, I was thankful to have some ready babysitters, and excited to take the kids there in the near future.

The kids are doing well with the transition, they really enjoy being around family, and love the country. Daniel exclaimed in amazement that he loves seeing the stars, the moon, and the country. I am adjusting to country living again, with all the snow, and space, and slight culture shock. I also have been facing the fact my mom is not with us, not being around all the time has allowed me to push that fact aside, but now I am dealing with it. There is a lot around here to remind me of her, and how proud she would be to have us here finally. With that, and us getting all the paperwork for the home, getting Christmas preparations still, it has been full week and a half.

Noah is a trooper, taking a break whenever he needs to! He is also enjoying all the extra attention.

Here are the cousins...look at those smiles.
Beau has found some very fun, and reasonable, indoor playgrounds. We got a chance to venture out to some of them yesterday, although the snow this week will keep us indoors for a while.

My thoughts and hearts are with my New England friends, and I am thanful for Facebook, blogs, phone calls, and e-mails, to know what is going on in all your lives. I also know that this was the right decision, and am praying for guidance and direction as we are still in transition, looking for where God wants us as we are out here now. We are looking forward to the holidays with the Gagnier family in New Bedford, and for all the future special occasions in our new home too. Also, as a discaimer, I won't be sending out Christmas cards this year, but please keep me on your lists, and I am going to try to get a New Year card out sometime in the new year, and with our new address.

Moving right along

2010-11-29T15:15:00.000-08:00

I am not liking this moving thing. Kevin is a pro. He is packing and getting things physically ready. I am working more on the emotional side. As we say bye to friends I have made over the past 7 or so years, I know each of them have been in my life for a reason, and I am so thankful for them.

Kayleen came over and celebrated an early Christmas with us and the kids. I got some flannel directly from Michigan, and am thankful for the friend who taught me some of the basics of motherhood just as I was getting started. I have loved watching her grow in her faith, and watching God move in her.

I met my friend Angela at the mall today, she is an amazing woman of God who looks to Him in every situation. I have enjoyed her friendship, her prayers, and it seemed as we shared our lives together our struggles were parallel, and we knew that God directed both of us.
Here Kevin and I are celebrating our anniversary at the Top of the Hub, we braved Boston one final time. It was amazing to look onto the city and spend time with Kevin as we reflected on our time here, and what is to come.
A little out of order, but Noah is so cute.
We all got dressed up, here is a good family photo from this past weekend.
This is Bill, the trash man. We have had an interesting friendship only seeing him on Mondays, but it was a blessing watching the kids say hi to him, the gifts that he gave, and as we first moved to Lowell, he was a precious constant. His family has had some health issues, and now I don't think I can pass a garbage truck without sending up a prayer for him.
It is going to be a whirlwind of a week, but here is a precious clip from church this past weekend. Rachel was a pro at the singing and hand motions, Daniel said he didn't really like all the people looking at him, but I have a feeling this is going to become a family classic.

Changes

2010-11-21T15:36:00.000-08:00

It has been a longer while since updating this post, because lots is going on! Kevin got a job in NY, we are leaving in two weeks, and we got a house in NY. So pretty crazy. Kevin is doing a great job of packing, I am doing well trying to keep out of his way to do the things he needs to do.

We will really miss the church, and the kids have been enjoying Rainbows on Wednesday nights. We have been learning about spiritual gifts on Wednesdays for the adults, and it is funny that was the same teaching I received when we first moved here almost eight years ago.

We took some time to enjoy the zoo this week. I love watching the excitement with the kids as they see the animals and explore.
Kayleen went with us, she spoiled the kids with some delicious lollipops.
Noah totally sugar high-ed.
It's not a real wolf, but the kids really enjoyed it none the less.
This week is our anniversary and Thanksgiving. We are going to continue on the packing and saying good-bye theme, and go out on Friday night to the Top of the Hub for an anniversary dinner and a night on the town. I am Thankful for a husband who likes to organize and pack, a wonderful 8 year marriage, and for God leading us in this new way!

Trees and Pees

2010-11-03T12:06:00.000-07:00

Howdy Partner...

Noah has been playing very well with Daniel's train set...so far he can only be Rosie, but I am thinking Noah may need to have train characters of his own. He makes the noises, and stays on the tracks and everything.
The rest of the blog will be devoted to the trees and pees. When Daniel was learning the potty training, it took a while for us to teach him to go outside. Now he does it everywhere, when I least expect it. Here he is with his little brother watching at the cemetery...any suggestions? To my credit, I was on the other side of the rock, and didn't know what he was doing until I came around the corner. Maybe it is another one of those things they just grow out of.
The kids are enjoying trees, and climbing them. Daniel has discovered the roots and looks for them too.

We are heading out to NY on Friday, quick trip, and will post pictures of Michael's birthday celebration when we return!

A-maze-ing

2010-10-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we tried a corn maze...and it was mostly fun. I have been thinking about going for a few years now, and a hour into it I questioned this decision. Kevin and I are bad enough navigating the roads of New England with a GPS, and we chose this? To Kevin's credit, he found the way out with the map, and we emerged without too much crying on all of our parts.

In the middle of the maze they had different obstacle courses and fun stuff. I didn't post the picture of me trying the zip line. Maybe Daniel's ready for mini-golf?
They had a kid maze that the kids conquered.
Here's to all the Survivor fans out there :-)
I borrowed this wagon from a neighbor, and although we didn't need if for the maze, the kids just enjoyed riding it around.
So here we are at the end of October, and have we made that much headway on moving? Not quite. Kevin had a really good phone interview with a company in Syracuse, and last Monday we found out he didn't get the job. Well on Tuesday another company all together in Syracuse wants to have a face to face interview next week when we go to celebrate Michael's 5th birthday. We told our landlord we would be out by mid November. There have been a few showings of the house, but nothing concrete, so we may be able to stay a little longer, we can move on base, and there are a number of good rentals around. So lets just call this a great practice of our faith. All outcomes are good. At times like this I miss my mom, but am also seeing how as I trust God, He comforts, and guides, and puts people in your life for these moments, and I am thankful.

Rachel's 3!

2010-10-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had Rachel's birthday weekend. We went pumpkin picking, had family time, went to Rainforest Cafe, and decorated the home. I think her love language is acts of service because she looked at all the balloons and streamers and said that it made her feel really special. I had a hard time putting the pumpkin pictures up with these, so I'll put those up later today.

Here is her first sugar high at the Rainforest Cafe. No huge meltdowns, and it was fun.
Kevin and Noah cleaning up. Got that stool at Ikea, and we got a desk there too. Ikea was crazy, but Daniel was able to go into the play area there, and we had a great lunch too, I think I would try to go back more often now that the kids are older.
Here is Daniel following in the footsteps of the Gagnier's before him, working the camera.

Running around

2010-10-07T10:07:00.000-07:00

I had a great time with Beau, Joe, and Dad, in Disney World, and we finished the half marathon. We finished together and it was a good refreshing time. I had a bunch of pictures I took on the run itself, but when I went to transfer them to my computer I accidentally deleted them. There were 12000 people running, and that was my first time with a group that big. Kevin had fun with the kids and got a chance to see them in a different element, and they all did well.

Here is a photo of me and my dad through Hollywood studios. I'll try to post more of my pictures later, but also Rachel's birthday is coming up, so I'll be posting more of that later too.

In the mean time it has been rainy the last few days, and really starting to feel like fall. I need to convince my kids to wear shoes and socks, but I think they are feeling the difference too. I am going to miss running as it gets colder and darker, but look forward to doing more races next year hopefully.

Tomorrow we are going to do apple picking with a group of families I am getting to know, and we have some fun things planned for Rachel's birthday. Just think pink. There is also an open house scheduled for this place on Sunday, so far no one has stopped by to check it out, good for me, not so good for the owner. I am enjoying the thought of nice warm hearty meals, and the last few days with my 2 year old daughter.

Life's a Blur

2010-09-28T10:15:00.001-07:00

I know that different seasons in our lives go quick, and others go slow, and in some senses it has been quiet but a blur. Last week Kevin was gone for most of the week, and it was both easier, but more tiring. We have been enjoying doing the Wednesday night ministry at church, the kids love doing Rainbows, and we have been working on the letter of the week for the past four weeks. I took the kids out for a walk on the rail trail in Chelmsford, and here are some pictures:

Rachel truly does stop to smell the roses while...

The boys run right ahead.
The kids do love to run, often in opposite directions. I joke that God gave me all bright blondes so I could see them as they ran away from me.
Rachel had the camera here and took a great picture of the trees. I love trees.
As I mentioned we have been working on the letter of the week. Last week it was I. I put a few different stations up for the kids to work on things, and I love sitting back and seeing how the kids approach the different tasks and what they come up with.
Daniel is doing well tracing and with cutting, and Rachel is keeping up. We even did some cool crafts and science experiements. We do some from the confessionsofahomeshooler.com website, and some from starfall.com.

I did have a good birthday, by the way, and can honestly say I feel older. I will be celebrating a little more this upcoming weekend with my dad, brother and sister, as we are ready to run in the Wine and Dine half marathon. I have wanted to run in a Disney world sponsored run for a long time now, and look forward to completing it with my family, and also moving forward with them. It was a race that my brother signed up for before my mom passed away, and it has become a "lets complete it together for Mom" race. Kevin is a hero for watching the kids for the weekend, and does plan on taking them down to New Bedford with his grandparents with a little extra help.

Weekly update

2010-09-14T06:31:00.001-07:00

My birthday month is going well. I went to the MFA in Boston this month, travelled to NY, and went apple picking so far. It was a nice warm fall day on Saturday, and the kids all enjoyed picking the apples and eating them. It was fun to see Noah enjoy eating and feeding the goats right along with the other two.

We got the game Hungry Hippo's and everyone played. It was especially enjoyable to watch Kevin and all the kids play together. All three have seemed to grow a lot in the last few weeks, like taller, and they are doing things more independently, I guess I am amazed how quickly the time does go by.
Talking about the time going by, we have lived here in this townhouse for 4 years now. We moved in thinking we were going to just stay for one, and now look where we are. We have still put out applications to NY, and no bites yet, but there are enough good rental places that are bigger that we can enjoy the winter in NE better with, so we are taking the steps to move. Actually our landlord is coming by today to see the state of the place, hopefully he is alright with how we have treated the place!

Well I knew the move was coming, but there is a sense of sadness and excitement. Two of the three have only known this place as their home, and there are a lot of good and bad, memories here. On the flip side, I am getting excited about hosting Thanksgiving this year, and it would be nice in a bigger place. As I was going though these different feelings yesterday, and praying in my heart, I noticed outside there was the perfect weather for a rainbow. I ran out the front door, and low and behold I saw this beauty right outside. Ok God, I get it. He holds us in the palms of His hand and is taking us one step at a time.
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference ~ Serenity Prayer

Labor Day 2010

2010-09-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

With everything that has happened this year, I have been very thankful to have seen my family members every month so far this year. I don't think I have done that since I left home for college.We were able to enjoy Labor Day in Upstate NY, and it was fun to smell the fall in the air, taste the sweet apples, and enjoy time with family.

Dirt. The kids love it. Here is the new pile in the backyard the kids spent hours playing in.

The kids were all in the bucket as they waited for Kevin to cut down some trees.
A man, his son, and some chaps. I think he looks pretty outdoorsy right?
Noah is so big, we brought his high chair, but he was just as happy climbing up at the table in a chair.
The boys getting ready to eat some marshmallows and enjoy some time around the fire.
So the countdown is on for my birthday, and I am thankful for the shortened work weeks the next two weeks. I began doing preschool with both Daniel and Rachel this morning, they were excited to do some homeschooling. I have been enjoying the running in preparation for the half marathon in less than a month.

Here is a video of the tree falling: If a tree falls in the wood, and kids are yelling at it, is it too much noise?

End of Summer

2010-08-31T17:14:00.000-07:00

The last week or so it felt like we were trying to fit in the last minute get togethers, the ones we thought we had more time in the summer to fit in. Our great friends from college, the Clegg's, live in Manchester NH, and we finally got in a dinner last weekend. It was great seeing their daughter Morgann, and two little almost fully adopted boys for the first time. They are truly doing God's work and ministering to the people up in Manchester.

I think it is next to impossible to get the kids all looking at the camera...

I had Morgann take a picture of the adults, she did a great job!
In the mean time, Kevin is off to Georgia this week, just for a few days. I was able to go into work yesterday with the help of Kayleen, and she recommended this playground in Arlington. We had a picnic there this evening, and I got the kids really tired out.
The kids looking over Boston...or debating wether or not to run down the steep hill.
Rachel threw away her pacifier today, she fought it a little tonight, but with that done, and Noah being done with bottles, we are getting out of the infant stages. Noah is literally running all over the place. Well with the end of summer comes fall and changes. It has been super hot here lately, so the break in the weather will be nice...oh and it is my birthday month coming up. Flirty and 30 is it?

Last weekend

2010-08-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

Weekends for us are hit or miss, sometimes we have a lot planned, and sometimes we don't. Last weekend was a nice a full weekend with friends and family.

We got together with Dave and Sandra and their three kids, and it is a good type a crazy time. It was fun just playing in their back yard.

The blonde ones are mind, the brown haired are the Libby's:
The next day we were able to meet up with Kevin's Uncle Dave in Maine, something we have been talking about doing for a long time now, and had fun at York, and the zoo and park up there.

This picture is cute, but I couldn't upload it the right way, although I am showing you anyways...

Noah enjoyed playing with the goats...well actually all the kids did.

Kevin and Daniel enjoyed doing the paddle boats. They were chasing the ducks. Rachel got in on some bumper boat action. Daniel did those bit slide rides, and really enjoyed the "Fun Houses".

Here is the beach, it was beautiful and had a nice playground right off the beach. It was also fun spending time with Dave and his friend Dan, we had dinner with them and they showed us around the area.

This week Kevin has been gone to FL, but Beau has been in town, so it has made the week go bye fast. Kevin gets home tonight and we have a fun weekend planned. I also found out I am in the half marathon that my brother and dad signed up for in the fall, so I started a training program, and it just feels good to run again with purpose. Beau has been taking some good pictures this trip, and she has posted some good ones on her blog.

That kind of week.

2010-08-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

If I could find my camera I would be showing you pictures of Kevin's cousin's high school graduation party, but I can't seem to find that right now, and that is the type of week I have been having. The kids have been a little harder this week, and with Kevin having a few late nights, it has made this week a long one. But tomorrow is Friday, and I will have another chance and a new day.

I went to Plaster Fun time, which was fun, but what I really went out for was Storytime at the Library, and I was off by a day. So the kids painted, and Rachel threw a huge tantrum at the end of the painting. Sigh. We also went to Target yesterday where she gave me another doozy. She is still two, I still need to remember that. These are pictures from my phone, and they turned out pretty good.

I have also begun the re-organization of the kids toys, and spent the last two days really combing through our stuff. With Noah being one now, we are looking for places for the things we don't need around for him anymore. Anyone know anyone needing baby toys or a baby bjorn? We did have a date night at Kimball farms where Kevin won at putt-putt, but the ice cream was nice, and the evening was beautiful, thanks to Kayleen for letting us go out :-)

Hopefully I will find the camera in all the cleaning I have done and have some more pictures to post soon.

Davis Farmland

2010-08-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

I've known of Davis Farmland since we moved here, but we never got the opportunity to go until this weekend, and it was fun! I think this was the first time for me that I saw all three kids enjoy a park like atmosphere, and I think it is getting easier to do things like this with all of them. This was very family friendly, and that helped a lot too!

Rachel was pretty brave with the pony.
They had this amazing sprinkler park where you could play in, and also to the side you could get in this pool of bubbles and then wash off. Daniel and Noah just loved it! Rachel had a scratch on her foot that made it hard for her to walk, so we just people watched. I was fine with that!
I love Noah's face, but also enjoy seeing Kevin have fun! Noah is fearless in the water.

It was a fun weekend, and I don't have that much planned again for this week, but we'll see what happens.

"I don't want to grow up"...

2010-07-29T05:28:00.000-07:00

"Because then I have to eat yucky food!" Oh the concerns of childhood. I told Daniel he could stay a boy for a long time before he has to eat more yucky food.

Not too much going on here, we are still waiting to see what the next step is. In the mean time we are enjoying the kids so much. Noah tries to get into any box, or hole, he can fit into.

The kids just playing in the living room...
We got a chance to play with Isaac and Bella this week, and enjoyed a nice watermelon among friend :-)

Another play group, it is very fun to watch girls play together and see what they come up with.

Last week we decided to enjoy dinner at the beach, and it worked out well. It wasn't as hot, the kids got tired out on the ride home, and there were less people there. The only bad part was that I realized Daniel and Rachel can eat their own ice cream cones now...no more sharing with mommy.

I am tempted to go out and find some fresh blueberries, they are so good this time of year and the kids love them...but I probably should dust and pick up the house just a little.

More Travels

2010-07-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

I think we are done with our major traveling for the summer. We had a good time in NY with family, Rachel and I got our nails done, for a special treat. Rachel did so well, that should be a regular even for us!

Look how focused she is...

My cousin and her daughter, Hadessa, were with us, both girls enjoyed the pampering.
We also got to enjoy time in the pool. Daniel doesn't stop moving once he enters the pool and is fearless. Rachel, on the other hand, is not too excited about pool time, so we just put our feet in. Noah is in between the extremes.
We got to ride in Buddy's Bus out to lunch with everyone. This is almost the only way to travel with everyone! It was fun, and we got some shoes for Noah. He fit into a size 6/7 Crocs, and can walk around pretty well in them. That is the same size shoe as Rachel.
More fun outdoor time.

We honestly took the opportunity to check out a house that was right down the road, and would be perfect for us if Kevin was able to get a job and it is still available (http://www.weichert.com/32559127/). We also got approved to move on base, into a 3 bedroom place as soon as we decide, but I just feel like we need to wait just a little longer to see which is the right way. The encouraging thing is that there are options! The last bit of news is that upon returning home, we found that one of our hermit crabs had died. It was Rachel's, and I don't think she really cared, but I was encouraged that I could keep a pet like that longer than a year...maybe it is time for a bigger animal? I was going to wait until Noah got a little older, but it is fun to think about.

Should be Packing

2010-07-11T15:56:00.000-07:00

Kevin is heading to FL this week for work, so I am heading to NY to spend time with family. I know I can't leave every time he leaves, but while it is summer, and there's a pool and cousins to play with, we'll head out.

For Noah's celebration we went to Build A Bear and got Noah his own bear. Daniel and Rachel have their own, which they got some outfits for, and we had his favorite meal, Mac and Cheese and Hotdogs. He is on whole milk, it feels to good to be fully away from formula. Now I just need to get rid of the diapers, and I am free from that stage of life.
Here the kids are playing with their bears outside. Rachel had a photo shoot for her bear, I am glad I have a digital camera, click away!
The kids just figured how to open up the front window, it made for a cute picture.
We had checkups for all the kids this week and everyone is happy and healthy. The kids being healthy is such a blessing, and I give God the credit for that. And now to get back to packing.

Happy Birthday Noah

2010-07-07T09:06:00.001-07:00

An Ode to the Youngest

I had some time with my third little boy
and the words just started to flow
I am very proud as he is walking around
I love him so much, does he know?
He points and discovers
I try not to hover
But he is into everything he can grasp
The breeze plays with his hair
and is he aware
of his joyful belly laugh!
In this moment in time
He is all that's on my mind
Although soon the others will come
This year went so fast
Your not very least, although the last
My sweet boy who loves dancing and having fun!

Myrtle Beach

2010-06-28T10:18:00.000-07:00

Kevin has now entered into the 30's and we were able to celebrate with his family down for the week in Myrtle. It was a good trip, I didn't get burned, the kids all had fun, and it was good family time. We also were able to celebrate Father's Day down there, and cover a whole bunch of birthdays and celebrations.

Noah is a beach bum.

Rachel and Aunty Nay
The easiest way for me to get Rachel back out to the beach was to entice her with an italian ice. It matched her bathing suit.
I like this type of play pen.
We were able to go out mini-golfing with Ryan, Kristin, and Renee, and it was a good evening out.

We got back on Saturday and I went to bed around 7... honestly. I think with the full time work the week before, and then a week at the beach, it has been a full past few weeks. VBS has started, and it is a joy to watch both Rachel and Daniel enjoy it. It is fun being a part of it, even though I mess up my lines in the skit, the kids don't seem to mind. The kids are singing all the songs already, and it has only been one night. God has blessed us the last few weeks, and I am very thankful for all the family time, and the things to celebrate. I still feel like we will need to move out of our town house before the summer is over, however, but I am waiting to see how things pan out and what the next step is. And I am doing better at enjoying life in the process.

Whale Watching and Working

2010-06-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

Since moving to NE I have wanted to whale watch, and I got the opportunity last weekend when my sister and dad visited. It was amazing. We saw 4 humpback whales two moms and two calfs, and we didn't get sea sick. We also visited the Constitution with the kids in Boston, and at way to much sushi in one sitting!

I love how the boys take care of each other.
Here's everyone looking out into a dry lock, I have a lot of the pictures from the back because I am a little slower. It was nice to have one adult to one kid ratio though. The USS Constitution museum had some great hands on exhibits, if you have the chance to go with the kids you should!
My dad with the boys.
Beau and I on the boat.

I have been working full time this week, and am almost done. It has been a good week of work, but I am glad it is almost over. We are trying to get things ready to leave for Myrtle Beach on Saturday, but it will probably be more last minute, and I think we do work better under pressure.

Noah is walking around all over now, it is fun to watch him toddle and explore. Now time to get the kids ready for bed, and lets see how those Celtics to tonight!

Let June begin!

2010-06-07T16:21:00.000-07:00

I have been anticipating June for a while, a month were Kevin is gone to San Diego this week, I am working the full week next week, going to Myrtle Beach after that, and then being involved in VBS the following week, in the mean time fitting in Kevin's 30th birthday, Father's Day, and a visit from my dad, sister and nephew. It is a good busy. I also guess I am apologizing now if I don't take many, or post many, pictures, over the next few weeks, but hopefully we'll capture the highlights.

Noah has been walking a lot, falling down, and then getting back up and trying it again. He enjoys the spotlight, and when he feels sad, he goes to the refrigerator door and plays with toy that plays music, dances a little, and then goes on his merry way. He is really feeling like such a little boy now.

Here are some pictures from the Memorial day parade we went to. It was a good parade, and fun family time.

Daniel had a dentist appointment, and we decided to take Rachel along to to see how she liked it. She did alright, I know she is a little young, but Daniel did very well, and hopefully that will rub off on her.
She was mostly proud of the little toys she got afterward. The dentist said she had a large mouth, and wouldn't need braces for space issues in that large jaw. It is funny to start thinking about braces and things the kids may need in the future. The all so far have a gap in between their front two teeth, but maybe it will even out in the next few years.
I am trying to get my sister to come out a few days earlier, but in the mean time I am trying to pace myself with the kids. I did get one of those iPads, it was a belated Mother's Day (birthday, just because your special day) present, and it has been a good distraction. The scripture verse I have been going back to over the last few weeks is Psalms 27. If you get a chance, read it, and let it encourage you too!

Baby Steps

2010-05-31T06:47:00.000-07:00

Noah has taken his first steps, and has done it earlier than 11 months, when the other two did it. His life is on fast forward, we gave him a first haircut, and he has six teeth right now. I just can't believe how fast this is going!!

Last weekend we went to NY for mom's burial, and it was good closure for me. Renee was able to come out for it, and we got to show her around Mexico, NY, and even get her a T-shirt saying Mexico, just south of TX, NY that is! It was great having her there, and it was good family time.

Some days I can't believe Mom is not here, you think you can't go through a day, and realize it has been a few months already, and we don't really know what the new normal looks like. But I know we all grieve differently, and it is going to take time, but in the mean time I am learning not to fear. I feel like the psalmist when it talks about the fear of death overcomes me, but at those times I am learning how to really stand on the Word of God. I know that death is a part of life, and that death for a Christian means that we go to our home in heaven, the place where we are truly home. It is going take more time to make that a reality, but it is good to remember nonetheless.
I have had the opportunity to go to work a little more often lately, and last Friday Kevin watched the kids, and put them to work!
We went to the beach again yesterday, and although it was tough with the Memorial Day traffic, just the family time is good.
They all like to dig holes in the dirt!

This is us waiting for some food on our way home.
This is one of those funny videos with Noah falling asleep, and the kids laughing at him. It is amazing how he still tries to eat his pretzel.

Happy Memorial Day, we're going to try to watch a parade today and enjoy the last part of the weekend. June is going to be super busy, but happy summertime!

Zoo and Beach

2010-05-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a little busier than we had planned, but good. We went to the Zoo on Saturday and then the beach Sunday afternoon for some good family time. I have had the chance to go to work a little more lately with my friend having some time in the afternoon, and the break has been good, but honestly I have some rough times still. This upcoming weekend we are traveling to NY for Mom's burial, and that has been lingering for the last few weeks. I have blown up in the last few days and am trying to take it one day at a time. My mom would always know what to say, and I know what is right, but I also know what the Bible says and how we need to wait and trust in Him.

Here are the kids faces...

Daniel loves the beach, I think it is in his blood.
Noah did very well, he was playing and didn't even eat much sand. I went for a walk along the beach with Rachel, that's more my speed.
I would have to say the beach was almost relaxing this time, it's getting easier transporting the kids and going places with them all. It is a relief, and everyday I tell myself it is getting easier.
Well sometimes easier. Rachel is still testing the waters, Noah is getting more teeth, and Daniel still working on listening, but it is getting easier. We are off to Lowe's tonight to pick up a new washing machine, and I am excited about buying a new appliance, the last time I had to was 7 years ago. I am thinking high capacity would be smart with all the laundry I have been, and will be doing. I hope to post more pictures next of this upcoming weekend, we are going to celebrate life, and it will be a good time with family. My dad bought some camping stuff, and we are getting one of the bigblow up bouncy things for the kids. Thank you God for bringing us through.

Happy Mothers Day

2010-05-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there. Yes, it is bittersweet, I love being a mom to my kids, and love all the moms that have influenced my life, but also miss my mom. But we are getting though. I think I broke my little toe on my right foot this week, and that was another excuse to take things easy this week, it hurts a little, but I am keeping it iced and trying as hard as I can to keep off of it, but that didn't help as we went for a long walk today! Oh well. I also did a sewing project with my neighbor this weekend, and think I am almost ready to take the plunge and try the sewing thing for myself.

Rachel has been enjoying all her babies this week, and especially enjoyed seeing a newborn this week.

Today we went to Castle Island in South Boston, and although it was really windy, I think I want to go back and enjoy the fort when it opens and spend more time there. They had some nice parks for the kids, and reasonable hot dogs for sale.

Noah is almost walking, he can stand up and wants to take steps. He is quite big, but very happy, little boy. I can hardly fathom he's 10 months already.

Daniel took this picture below....
I love dressing her up in all the different colors thanks to family members and sale shopping.
We did end up reserving one of those iPads, I am going to pick it up this week and look forward to being high tech and learning how to use it. We have only had one computer for a long time, and it has been good, but there has been a lot more we have been doing on the computer lately so it was time. I am going to put in a few more hours of work this week, so that will be different, and it always makes the week fly by.

Disney World

2010-05-05T05:18:00.001-07:00

I think each family has that place they go to that is their place. Like the beach, or to a cabin, but for my family it was always Disney World. Since the first time we went (back in 1986 was it?) we got the bug and went back almost every year from 1991 on.

Me and Beau with Mickey Mouse in 1991

A more recent photo, 2002 ish.

Well last Friday my dad, brother, sister, and nephew decided to take a last minute trip down again, and I was able to join kid and husband free, thanks to some great friends and very understanding husband. It's not that we won't be going to Disney World again, but the first time you do anything after someone passes away it is the hardest, and we wanted to experience that together. So it was a quick weekend but a time to really reflect and remember, and then to plan the next one with everyone again.

Me and my big brother Joe.

So in the mean time, it is May already and the weather is beautiful. The next few months will be busy and I know every week seems to go faster than the week before. I am just thankful for the times to be together, and am learning how to praise God for the little and big blessings in my life.

Baseball and Butterflies

2010-04-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

This week we went out to a Red Sox game and I haven't been to one of those in years. I really don't remember the last time I went in Boston without kids, so it was a good outing. The catch came when we took the commuter line in and missed the 10:44 pm train by two minutes. The next one didn't leave until over an hour later. So it was a late night, and I am still paying for it.

Here's Kevin reading at 11 at night, while we are waiting.....

Us eating ice cream at the game.

I took the kids to the butterfly place this week, and I loved the pictures of the kids here. These are my favorite types of butterflies.

This week I had some difficulty with Rachel. She was yelling a lot, and I was having a hard time handling it. In the mean time, I had been reading the Birth Order Book, (thanks Wendy), and remembering she is the middle child and being reminded of the needs of each of the children now that they are getting older. I went for a little walk just with Rachel, and was amazed how she opened up and got sweeter and sweeter as we had one on one time. I am thankful that I can now see the needs of the kids and try to help them as they need it, and hope God continues to give me wisdom as the kids change.

Kevin's parents are here for a few days this week, and the kids are enjoying the time with them. I think I am going to try to get some extra sleep this week!

Mondays and Laundry

2010-04-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

I feel like there is a lot more laundry to do on Monday. I think because I take a break from it on the weekend, and it just really builds up. I am also starting to notice that food is going quicker with three kids eating the same food, it is just interesting to watch things grow.

Daniel loves building with blocks and lego's, he was especially proud of this reindeer, or giraffe...

The kids were having fun making funny faces.

Noah eating stuffed shells, and wearing most of it.
Noah doesn't quite fit on the chair yet, but I was trying out all three at the table.
I went to the park a few times last week, and just tried to meet up with different friends in the mornings. Usually the afternoon get busy with the younger two naps, so at this time of life, the best times are in the morning.

I met this woman and her daughter on Monday at the park, and since the kids played so well together, we decided to meet again on Wednesday, and plan to meet again this week. She has decided to homeschool and we are going to compare a little how we do things. This Thursday we are heading to a Red Sox game and are pretty excited about it, I'm probably a little more excited than I should be about a baseball game. We are also looking forward to seeing Kevin's parent's this upcoming weekend, and it will be nice to spend a few days with them. Now I'm off to finish watching the Boston Marathon, and hopefully we can enjoy more of the Patriot Day activities later on this week.

The Quiet

2010-04-12T06:41:00.000-07:00

So it happened this weekend, Saturday to be precise. I didn't do anything. And it was hard. I have been trying to keep busy, trying not to think too deep, and I couldn't help it this Saturday. We had no place we had to be, Kevin wasn't feeling well, and we stayed home. And it was hard.

I think of the Bible when God was talking to Elijah. He wasn't in the loud noisy things, He was in the still quiet voice. For one reason or another, maybe it's the three kids, things aren't usually quiet. I often dream of going away just by myself, buying something nice (some sparkly shoes perhaps), or eating something good(something sweet and chocolaty), some forms of escape, but my prayer now is for peace in the midst of this time. To truly enjoy the kids, and when I find myself utterly frustrated, taking a step back. To not push to go out and do if it is not working. To allow myself some time. No pictures this time, I didn't take much this week. I am going exploring with the kids today and we are having a picnic. I come back to this place of needing to slow down often, but it is always under different circumstances. So here I go again, ready to find my peace that passes all understanding, going to the strong tower, and dwelling in the secret place of the Most High.

A little bit of this and that

2010-04-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

There was nothing big to post this week, just random pictures when I remembered to take them. We have really been enjoying the nice weather, took the kids out for a jog with us, and just enjoyed a quiet weekend this past weekend.

I love this picture of Rachel, she has pretty good posture, and loves her pink pony and Cinderella.

This little guy is climbing up the steps now.
Lets go fly a kite!

I cooked up some lamb on Sunday as our special meal, and boy was it tasty.
It has been a busy week of just normal stuff. Noah is getting teeth, Rachel is two and enough said, and Daniel has been writing letters and numbers lately and doing very well.

Weekend in Texas

2010-03-30T18:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we got back from our trip to TX, and it was really good. We had to learn how to travel with three kids and needing a rental car with rental car seats...but I figure it can only get easier from here. The weather was nice, we had some great times with Renee, and the kids are still talking about the trip.

We went to the zoo in Tyler TX, and I was impressed. As you can see below the kids were impressed too. I love watching their faces as they see new things.

I thought this was a good picture of me.
We were in the place where you could feed the birds and they would even climb on you. It was really fun.

We had a snack at this lookout where you could be right up close to the elephants and giraffes. The kids love those two animals especially.
Renee made some beautiful jewelry, and here is Daniel helping make on for him. She even made some clip on earring for Rachel, and she loves them.
Renee has a little dog named Punkin, and the kids enjoyed playing with her, and her little cage.
In general the kids did well on the flight, but I was thankful for the little play area that Dallas had right out in front of the gate returning. On the return flight Daniel and Rachel fell asleep on landing, but again, it can only get better from here the next time we fly. Daniel has been on 8 airplane rides, Rachel 6, and Noah 3 so far. Thats the hard, and sometimes fun, part of having family all over the place.
We went and saw where Renee worked, celebrated some birthdays, and was able to experience her baptism. She braved the cold water at the local state park, and I teared up as she demonstrated her love for God with that outward gesture. I am so thankful for not only a sister in law...but also a sister in Christ.

Now it is pretty rainy and the sump pump has been going all day. I miss the sun in TX. I did sign up for another race this weekend, and am looking forward to the nicer weather around here, I know the kids enjoyed being outside a little more. Yesterday Noah stood on his own for a few seconds, you could see the look in his eye like get ready, because I will really be moving soon.

Happy Birthday Daniel!

2010-03-19T05:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday with Daniel's birthday, and I think he enjoyed it, because he told us he was having a good day. The kids did alright playing and sharing the balloons, and the weather was so beautiful to go into Boston and enjoy time at the Aquarium.

I like it when people offer to help take your picture.

We got our camera timer to take this one. At least we are all looking at the camera.

As shown in the balloons above his current favorite colors are green and yellow. It was a fun family day, and we have really been enjoying the weather. The kids still love their bunk beds, and we have a few things planned for the weekend, so the time is passing quickly. We need to recover from the sugar from yesterday, and get working on the next trip on Thursday next week to go to TX to visit Kevin's sister. We are pros now at traveling on a plane with three kids.

Bunk Beds and Basketball, and of a little boy growing so tall!

2010-03-14T18:16:00.001-07:00

So after a busier week than I intended, we are heading into Daniel's Birthday week. I hear magic happens at 4, and I think I am starting to see some changes already. He is talking more, he it helping more, he is doing more things on his own...I think I like it.

We are trying out basketball lessons with him at the Y, here is a classic shot. Kevin said he was a little shy, but I think the chocolate donut he gets after it will be good motivation to enjoy going for the next few weeks.

Drum roll please...we got the kids bunk beds. And they love it.

Daniel is already learning how to throw things down, the next is making a blanket cave at the bottom bunk.
Here is Noah trying to help.
Kevin has Thursday off and we are going to the Aquarium for Daniel's birthday, I already got the library pass. I think we are going to partially celebrate his birthday in Texas, and at the end of April Kevin's parents will have a few more things for him, so it like a birthday month...I like the way that sounds. I ran the 5 mile race today in the pouring rain, and found a running buddy who may inspire me to run a few more races in the are in the next few months, it feels so good to be running again, although I would like to start getting faster. Maybe when the weather gets better.

Back Home

2010-03-07T17:08:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from the time we were in NY. We drove back yesterday just to have a full day back before Kevin had to go back to work. I squeaked in a race this morning I had signed up for a while ago, and it felt good, but not I am utterly exhausted. I think it is going to take all of us a few days to get back on schedule, but the weather was so beautiful today, it is encouraging for the spring to come.

Rachel and Hadessa hugging, the two little princesses.
Noah is pulling himself up and is crawling all over the place.
The kids blowing off some steam at a McDonalds
Look at that look in his eyes, he is ready to go!

I had some time to myself this morning and a few moments to pray, after a few more tears, I think that God knew this was going to happen, and he gave all of us the ability to handle it. My mom was a huge spiritual guidepost in my life, and often I would go to her first instead of to the Bible, so it is time for me to get stronger in that area. I had my plans, Kevin did not get into Syracuse by the way, and they fell flat on the floor, so my prayers will be different. He knows we could use a bigger place and that we would like to be closer to family, so I am going to leave the details up to God and wait until we feel like He tells us to move. One thing didn't work, but that doesn't mean there is something different in store, even better. I have a tendency to get overwhelmed by the big picture, but I can just take it one day at a time, deal with the kids and husband, and hold onto the peace that passes understanding, and run this race set before me. So I have one more race I signed up for next week, and we are going to get bunk beds for the kids, and I have a son turning 4 soon...that is more than enough to keep us going! Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, they have really carried us through.

A poem for Mom

2010-02-23T05:15:00.001-08:00

This is the hardest thing that’s been done
To bury a loved one, as daughter, sister, husband or son
The time went to fast; how were we all to know
Her passing was a peaceful as the falling snow
There was so much more to do, more things to be done
More vacations to be had, more hugs, and more fun
We’ve all been so selfish, she gave us so much
She is laughing in heaven, and dancing and such
I am missing my mother, my mentor, my friend
But this is but another beginning, and not just an end
Just as a seed dies, it grows all the more
In our hearts and lives, her spirit will always soar
So yes we will cry, we will laugh, but we’ll never forget
Her life was a gift from God, and it’s still giving yet

Noah versus the Crawl

2010-02-15T11:51:00.000-08:00

Noah began crawling this week, and now the game changes. He wrecks his brother's train tracks and gnaws on his sister's toys. Daniel has learned to stiff arm him, and Rachel just raises her voice yelling at him. And he enjoys every minute of their attention. I do have to baby proof a little better now, and make sure I have things picked off the floor too.

Saving the sippy cup for later...

Happy Valentines day with a happy baby in a box with hearts.
Someone is ready for the weather to get warmer.

We have moved Noah out of his infant car seat, because he was just to heavy to carry, in it, and now I need to be sure I have him well covered because before I could just zip him up all bundled up with the cover. But he just looks so cute in the hat.
Kevin's nickname for Noah is Mr. Happy, because he is still so easy going and happy all the time. What a blessing. This week is winter break for the schools, so I have a friend coming and watching the kids a few times this week while I go spend some time at my other job. It is always a refreshing change of pace, but I love my full time job better. We've had a good three day weekend, we find ourselves cleaning and reorganizing whenever both Kevin and I have some extra time at home. Just as an update on my mom, things are looking good for a straight forward treatment of her, but thanks for your continual prayers as she walks this path of recovery.

The Good and the Bad

2010-02-08T13:03:00.000-08:00

The good news is that Kevin won an annual award this week for being the best financial analyst on the base. Last week, while Kevin was away, went well until Wednesday night when Rachel woke up with the stomach bug. It eventually went through all of us except for Kevin, who was able to come home Thursday night, and help with the puke and poop.

The good news is that we got folks in the house in NH again, and they love it up there. Kevin went up on Saturday to meet with the couple, and they are set to move in at the end of the month. The bad news on Saturday was that my mom went to the hospital, and now need surgery to take care of cancer and a problem with her liver....

You hear the worship songs in church that says that even when things are good I will praise God, and when things are bad I will praise Him. We seem to be getting a lot of both around here. The kids are doing great, Kevin is doing well, and yet my family is struggling. I don't want to be angry, but we still need to keep it one step at a time. So keep us in your prayers, and I'll keep things posted. But it's ok. The good and bad come along. I am learning that is what life really is about.

In any case, here are some pictures of the kids. I didn't get too many from last week, but they are really enjoying painting. I just wanted to point out the kid's different techniques.

I thought Rachel looked super cute Sunday morning.
Tonight Kevin and I are going on a much needed date, and we have some fun Valentine things planned for this week. I am glad we are learning about the Love of God, because that is what we all need.

Princess and the Pee

2010-02-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

Here's Noah with a little reading material as he drinks his bottle.

This past weekend we went down to New Bedford for Kevin's cousin's baby shower. It was a huge shower, and then afterwards we had dinner with Kevin's grandparents.

Here's the party, looks like Noah is having fun.
He loves his cupcakes.

I was thinking about that title for a while and chuckling each time I thought about blogging. Rachel has been doing very well with potty training, and she is the type of person who will yell at the potty to make the stuff come out if it is not coming in her timing. If you didn't catch it she couldn't go to the potty because there wasn't any in her butt. Ah, to be so frank.

So it is Monday, all the kids are asleep, and I have tried to keep things busy this week. So far so good...but it is still Monday. Oh, and yes I am on facebook now, we'll see how that goes.

Not on Vacation anymore....

2010-01-27T15:46:00.000-08:00

We came back last Friday and hit the ground running. Noah got his first tooth, Rachel began potty training, and I started a little preschool homeschool with Daniel this week.

Noah is doing well with his first tooth. No major rashes, strange pooping, or exceptional crying. Actually he lately has been sleeping through the night....I almost feel rested in the morning!

As for Rachel, I found her motivation to potty train...the princess dress. She doesn't get to wear her princess dress(s) if she doesn't try sitting on the toilet for me, and so far she has been dry for two days. That was my mom's idea, and it is working very well. I think she likes the feeling of underwear too, and the other two entertain themselves pretty well while I focus on her.

Now on to Daniel, we take a few hours out of the day to work on this preschool homeschooling book called Bright Beginnings. It has laid everything out where we are learning everything from the Bible and manners, to math and science. He is drawing for me, and trying to write out his name. He does loose his attention sometimes, and we just continue on to the next thing. Honestly, I thought it was going to be pretty hard, but I am finding myself really enjoying the times with the kids, and watching them learn things. It is only the first week, but it is a good place to start.

Here we are investigating snow. How cold it it, what color is it, what does it taste like (keep away from the yellow snow), you know all the important things.

Princess Rachel, with her dress on, because she didn't wet her underwear.
Couldn't tell this guy was getting a tooth...
Now I am getting mentally prepared for Kevin to be away next week, and in theory we should hear about this Syracuse program soon....and now onto watching Chugginton on the computer, it's Daniel's new favorite show.

Still on Vacation

2010-01-20T12:00:00.001-08:00

Hi out there from Upstate NY. The kids and I flew back here while Kevin is still in FL on work. I think the kids still think he is in Disney World without them, and I have to assure them that he is still in fact working. Here are pictures from the trip so far, and it has been fun. This trip didn't have a long time to plan, so it was strange being in FL again. The kids really enjoyed the characters this time, and we enjoyed the warmer weather.

Here we are waiting for the plane ride. Honestly it is still torture going through the security check points, but all in all, we just take a big breath and try not to get stressed out and keep the kids close.

Noah was happy the entire time. He amazes me because he has gotten the most smiles and attention out of all the kids at this stage. People would go out of their way to say hello to him.
The kids had some pool time in the afternoons. Daniel went down the water slide at least 10 times.
As for the characters, when Rachel saw someone she recognized she ran to them and gave them a big hug. It was the cutest thing. I think Daniel enjoyed the characters just as much, but they were a lot of Rachel's favorites.

My cousin Janelle, her husband Darren, and daughter Hadessa, also came with us this time. It was fun watching all the kids interact and play.

We are recovering from the FL trip in NY, and on Saturday Kevin will meet us halfway between NY and MA to pick us up. Kevin got a chance to meet up with his grandmother while in Florida, so we have covered a lot of ground. We have also eaten out a lot over the last week, so it is time to begin getting back in shape and ready for a few races I signed up for at the end of Feb. I am in one sense happy that January is almost over though, and keeping thing busy has helped me get though the wintertime. Hope you enjoyed the pictures!

Wednesday Morning

2010-01-06T06:25:00.000-08:00

Here's to a mid week blog. It's a new year, I have a new haircut, and Kevin and I have been doing the P90 exercises for the last week or so. It is nice to have a workout partner under the same roof, so far having an accountability is keeping us motivated. I plan on running some races this year, and this is a good way to build up some strength during these cold winter months.

Here are some random pictures from the last week:

Which one is the real baby?

Rachel has been enjoying mothering here three babies. She named them Lila, Jim, and one yet to be named. She puts them to sleep and often carries them around like real babies.
Here are the kids playing in a built up bridge by Daniel. He makes these things often and is enjoying making different train tracks designs lately. I haven't seen two train track set ups alike since Christmas. Maybe that is the engineer coming out in him?

We had a spontaneous "Go Hokies" Day today. Daniel found his VT shirt, so Rachel had to find hers, and then I put Noah in one as well.

The kids have been saying some cute things lately. Yesterday Daniel thanked me for saving his life. What actually happened is that he had the hiccups, and I gave him a spoonful of sugar to help him get rid of it. It worked, and he thought I saved his life. We have been working over the past few nights to get Kevin's application into the AF program that is at Syracuse University, get a new tenant into our home in NH by early next month, and in the back of my mind I am trying to pack for the next two weeks that we will be gone. The kids are all playing in the hallway now, and I should see what they are doing, since it sounds like they are trying to feed Noah something. Have a great rest of your week!

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T17:15:00.000-08:00

I am happy it is a new year. I have big plans so far as to getting back in shape, being a little bit more disciplined, having peace and patience...but I guess it is only day one of 2010. And now I need to remember to take it one day at a time and enjoy it, because the time passes so quickly. I was just watching Daniel and Noah interact this week, and feeling in awe that we are at this point, and how fun it is to watch them all together.

We got Noah's 6 month pictures taken, and he did great. Here are some of the photo's.

We usually get the pictures taken at Sears, but their prices just went up, so this is probably the last individual photo shoot. He looks very similar to Daniel at this age, but there are a lot of distinctions too. Well, at least I can't say I didn't try to even the pictures out for the first year, and take them at the times I took the other two. He is on the bottle now, I am ready to have my body back, and we are trying for some more sleep at night.

I seem just to list off what is happening in the next few weeks in my blog, I think it is a way to keep me on track with life, but I want to share more of my thoughts and what is happening in our lives, and not just the activities. We were at dinner the other night and I asked Daniel what he was thinking. He was looking at Kevin and saying he was just thinking how Jesus made Daddy. I was blessed by that comment, because I think there is a lot to teach the kids, but that they are yearning to learn about the things around them too. I am thankful for my kids and husband, for my family and friends, and I wish you all the best God has to offer this year.

The Time Inbetween

2009-12-29T13:02:00.001-08:00

It is the time between Christmas and New Years. The time to reflect on last year, and look ahead to next year. And I still need to unpack my clothes from the last trip. I got my super duper planner in the mail last week and was just updating the birthdays and address from my old planner, what a great time to reflect on all that has happened, and how quickly the time really has flown! We have been so blessed with Noah, two growing healthy young kids, and an excellent marriage. We have great friends and family who love and support us, and it is just humbling to see where God has taken us. I am just very thankful right now.

Here are some picture of the time in Mexico, NY. The snow was fun, the kids played with sleds and snow tunnels, and the food was excellent.

That is not a tree dragging Rachel, that is my dad in some nice tree looking outerwear.

Kevin's parents have been here for the past day and a half, and we were able to get Noah's 6 month pictures taken. He did so well! I'll post some of them when I have the time to post next, so check back soon!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-22T11:36:00.000-08:00

We finally got our van back, just in time to drive it to NY tomorrow to spend Christmas with NY family, and return the "rental" from my sister. Thanks Beau for letting us use your car for the last few weeks! Here are some pictures from the last few days. We did some Christmas on Sunday morning while we were snowed in, combing some of Kevin and my traditions growing up, and got some time outside in the snow.

Hope you all enjoy the season, and make some good memories along the way.

Another week

2009-12-15T12:08:00.000-08:00

So there is a little bit of a lull between holidays, before things pick up again next week. We have been low key with Kevin getting ready for the GMAT and with the varying winter weather. Here are some fun shots of the kids from this week. I guess that Noah is sitting up officially by himself....I need to write that one down. That happened too quick. And he is getting on his knees and trying to crawl. Oh boy.

Bath time!

Here is our attempt at getting a picture together, I even tried to coordinate their outfits that day. Noah was too interested in the lolli-pop,
Here he is doing a push up. It amazes me every time I see that belly get off the floor. Like that drool hanging down too?
A nice french braid for the little lady
And another group shot. Rachel seems a little formal for a Monday, but the only way to get her out of her Dora nightgown, was to put a Dora dress on.
I am waiting for my planner for next year to come in, there are already things to remember and write down.

Next week we are heading to NY for Christmas, and there are a few work related parties to go to, and we will get to see Kevin's parents as they are up to New Bedford for the holidays as well. The Christmas cards coming in from everyone are beautiful, and it is fun to see where everyone is at this time of year.

Noah and the Snow-ah or (SNoah)

2009-12-09T04:40:00.000-08:00

Ok, these pictures are mostly of Noah, but I am officially home for the first time because of the snow. The kids seem pretty excited about the snow, and I think I can get them out there today. Just as a side note, I did fix the pictures on my last blog...I got so excited about having time to post, but I posted on my mom's blog, and then tried just to copy and paste...and there you have it.

Quiet Time

2009-12-03T12:25:00.001-08:00

All kids are napping, so I shall blog! We are all catching up from our trip last week. We broke the trip up stopping in Delaware with Kevin's brother on the way back, and it was good to spend some more time with them.

Here's Noah with Renee, I think they both look great in orange and maroon.

I throw this in because Kevin said he looked like this He-Man character with his beard. Hmmm...

So now I am thru with the laundry and putting away of the clothes and all the nice things we generously received from Kevin's family. We got the van looked at today, and on Tuesday my mom and brother drove in a extra vehicle for us while the van is being looked at. I am very thankful that we have a car to drive around and thankful for family!!

I tried Noah in this chair, and he seemed to do well with it. He is growing up too quickly! I just need to figure out how to transition Rachel out of it now.

It's December and Rudolph the Red nosed Reindeer was on last night. We let the kids stay up and watch it while Kevin decorated. This is our look this year. Rachel was pretty excited to see her ornaments hung up, and it was fun to watch Daniel enjoy the show I enjoyed watching growing up. It's nice to have the additional lighting now that it is getting so dark so early.

Oh Deer...Time to be Thankful!

2009-11-26T13:40:00.000-08:00

We've had a lot happen in the past few days while here in VA, I wanted to share before we got back to MA. We left Friday night to drive the 12 hours to Kevin's folk's home in Roanoke, and it was a good trip...until we hit a deer! We were driving down 81 and it was 4 in the morning, and Kevin was driving, when the three deer stepped out into the road. We only hit one, but it was scary for me. This was the damage on our car, but we were safe, but it will take a few weeks to fix our car although it is still driveable right now...so we need to figure that out when we get back.

Here are the cousins...

Rachel got some cute clothes, and is showing off her Dora outfit.

So Kevin has been working on a beard for the past few months, because of the beard competition between his brother Ryan and him. How do you think they did? I just can't wait until the beard comes off.

While we have been down here we were able to celebrate our 7th wedding anniversary! We went to a winery in the area and had a great dinner out, and the kids were well taken care of. I keep laughing at myself, there is so much VT stuff down here, and I seem to point everytime I see someone where something Hokie. In other news while we were down here we found out our renter has left the house in NH and won't be returning...so that is another thing on our list to take care of when we get back to MA. Until then, we had a great Thanksgiving meal, got to see my grandmother and aunt while here, and will eat some more great food. There is truly a lot to be thankful for this year!

Thumbs Up

2009-11-20T10:45:00.001-08:00

Still have to finish packing, but the kids had a few cute moments to share this week. Have a happy Thanksgiving, there's a lot to be thankful for!

"I Love Dirt"

2009-11-15T17:12:00.000-08:00

When Daniel starts getting tired he starts naming off everything he loves. A few of the things mentioned this past weekend was dirt, trees, dogs, cats, Michael's house, tractors, just to name a few. We had a good time in NY celebrating Michael's birthday a little longer, going to my Aunt and Uncle's barn, playing in the woods and with tractors.

I had to start off with a picture of Noah, since he is not in any of the actions shots. He does well on trips, but he tends to get fussy after long trips in the car, and is getting very heavy, so it is hard to hold him for a long time.

Here are the kids ready to go over to the barn.
The kids are playing in some sawdust here.

We fit all the kids in the wheelbarrow. Hadessa, my cousins daughter, was showing the kids around the barn.
Saturday night we did a little pinata with the kids and Kevin organized a bonfire.

So another lovely weekend flew by, and now we are catching our breath before the next trip comes on Saturday, were we take the trip to Virginia. On Wednesday our back door is getting fixed....I am not quite sure if I should stay in the house with three kids for that one or not, and I will slowly start packing for the next trip. We just got a roof rack on our van, so that should be fun to use, and I am all done with my Christmas shopping now!

Friends coming and going

2009-11-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

I need to catch up on my pictures from last weekend, so here it goes. The kids had fun walking around the neighborhood for Halloween. We got a few pictures of them playing in the leaves earlier that day.

Noah fell asleep on his bouncy...these pictures are slightly out of order..sorry...

Here are the kids looking for more kids coming to our door.
Here we all are...Rachel is whatever princess sparkly thing we could find, and Daniel is a pirate. Once Rachel realized we were going to folks homes to get candy, she was practically running to each door. We walked around, and then handed them out, so the kids received and gave.
My friend from college came the next day to spend a few days with us. She found a great deal on Jetblue from the DC area. We had fun with the kids during the day, we took them to the Zoo and to the Boston Children's museum, changed diapers, played and fed them in all it's glory. At night went out shopping, ate sushi, and painted some pottery, while Kevin was on kid duty.
Here was Daniel having fun...we don't try to torment all our visitors....
And as I mentioned friends coming and going, Jenny left yesterday, and tomorrow my sister is coming in with Michael. We are going to have fun celebrating his birthday both here, and when we travel back with him, I just love birthday weeks.

Food and Fall and Rolling like a Ball

2009-10-30T12:59:00.000-07:00

Noah reached a few milestones this week, he rolled over for the first time, and we tried some solid food with him. He liked both! Every time now we lay him down he rolls right over, and gets very frustrated, but it won't be long until he's moving.

Rachel got really excited about bath night one night, and dumped in all the bubbles while we were getting ready to come upstairs, hence the very bubbly bath.
Fun with leaves. Daniel was looking out the window very sad the other day that the leaves had fallen. Stephanie was here at the time and trying to explain to him how they do fall, but they come back after the winter time.

Conner, our neighbor, with Daniel and Rachel.
So both Kevin and I were getting ready to get out the door Tuesday morning, and were slightly frantic. We looked down and watched the very moment Noah rolled over, and got his picture and gushed all over him. I am very thankful for the milestones we get to experience with every child. Here is Noah right after he rolled over the first time.

I will post more pictures from the weekend with them dressing up. Kevin was home with the kids today and took them to Target, I am very proud of him, so we have candy to pass out, and already the neighbors are asking if the kids are coming out because they usually have something special for them. I am not exactly sure what they will be wearing, but it will be fun either way.

Paying My Respects

2009-10-27T10:01:00.000-07:00

We just found out someone we knew from college passed away yesterday while being deployed in Afghanistan. He was one of the first people I was in contact with in college being our cadre corporal, and I respected him deeply.

In Memoriam: (10-27-2009) The Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets is profoundly saddened to learn of the loss of Marine Captain David Seth Mitchell, Class of 2001. Captain Mitchell was killed in the collision of his AH-1W SuperCobra with another helicopter in Afghanistan on 25 October. He is the fourth member of the Class of 2001 we have lost since graduation. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Ut Prosim.

The Middle

2009-10-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Has anyone seen the new show on ABC called Middle? I enjoy watching either on Wednesday nights or on hulu, but it is about two working parents with three kids, and I think it is hysterical. Not that my kids are as old as the ones portrayed, but already I find myself saying some of the things the main mom says, or thinking how easy it would be to find myself in some of those situations.

But in less dramatic fashion, here are some pictures of the kids and some of the things we did this week. Next week is my last week of my full/part time work. Stephanie goes full time with her other family after this week, and looking at the month of November, I think we are going to be gone for a good portion of it. But it has been good for me, and they are looking into me working at home, so we will see how things end up.

Noah is just a happy little boy, and I enjoy hearing his raspy coos and little laughs.

Here we are with a movie night with the kids, with a kid friendly movie, of course.
We did carve our pumpkins a little early, so they are getting enjoyed now by the local wildlife. Here is our friend Jumpy squirrel, and anyone who know Curious George will know where we got that name from.
Not that I watch TV with the kids a whole lot...this was just a very cute shot too.
Here we are making pumpkin muffins.

Thanks again to Memere for the gift box this week, and for the princess towel, of course!

It's getting cold outside

2009-10-17T15:22:00.001-07:00

It was another very quick week! With Kevin having Monday and Friday off, I was able to get some extra work hours in, besides the Tuesday and Thursday I regularly have, so that was different for me this week. The kids are doing great with Stephanie, and Daniel and Rachel are getting better at listening when we go out, so I was able to run some errands with all the kids and survive. Kevin was Mr. Mom on Friday, and even got dinner ready...well we had Chinese takeout, but it has been a good change of pace. Rachel told me that Daddy need to go to work, and Mommy needs to stay home, but she adjusted accordingly.

Daniel has been talking so much more, and asked for Noah, and his picture taken with him, so I had to oblige.

I am working hard at getting out of the house with the proper attire for the kids. Coordinating hats and socks and shoes isn't too easy for me, but I was proud that Rachel was nice and warm when we went out today. We went grocery shopping together, and checked out the new Target right down the street....it is very nice!! They even have a Starbucks in it, so I walked around shopping with Rachel and a pumpkin spice latte in my hand, I know I am going to have to be careful now that a store like that is so close!
Noah is trying to sit up in his bouncy seat, so we have started putting him in the bouncer, and he is enjoying it. He is trying to roll over, and just watches the kids whatever they do.

Want a bite of my apple?
I found this great jogging/bike path right behind the Crosspoint towers, it is so close, so we all went for a jog on it today. The kids were all bundled up, and it will be a great path for Daniel to bike on. I wish I found the path a little earlier on in the season, but it is still nice to know it is there. Anyone else want to go for a jog with us?

Rachel's Birthday Weekend

2009-10-12T16:50:00.000-07:00

It was a good birthday weekend with Rachel, and I'll let the pictures do the talking.

On Saturday we went to pick some apples and pumpkins. We had to ride on a tractor out where the apples were ready, and we were all set to go in our VT wear. Daniel needs some VT clothes, but I am sure our trip to VA this Thanksgiving will solve that.

We went for the Cortlands, and here is Noah eyeing a tasty one.

Another family of five helped us out with the family photo.
Where's Rachel and Daniel?

Future farmer of america....

Aw shucks...
We had a good time celebrating in New Bedford with Kevin's family, but I didn't take that many pictures. I worked this morning just for a few hours, and Kevin was in charge, I am trying to break him in easy. He carved the pumpkins with the kids.
Daniel actually took this picture of Kevin and the pumpkins. Daniel didn't like to scoop out the guts of the pumpkins because it was too "orangy". We roasted the seeds and they were yummy.
Tonight we went to the Rainforest Cafe, and then to Build a Bear. Rachel picked out a pink unicorn, and named her Horsey. We were laughing all day because our friend Bill, who takes our trash away, gave her a gift this morning which was a little baby doll. We asked her what the name of the baby was, and she said Jim. So we have baby Jim and Horsey added to the family today.
Here she was trying to carry it home...

So here's to an upcoming year of more words, potty training, hair braiding, princess dancing, tea partying times. It's so fun to have a girl.

Three's good for me

2009-10-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

It was a good week. Work was good and connecting with old aquaintances and my old stomping grounds, and the pace of work was good for me. I was so blessed to have a great person to come to my place and watch the kids, and that gave me the additional confidence to go out and change up the routine a little.

But three kids is enough for me. Enough to realize I can't do this alone, enough to know I can't do things as fast or that slow is ok, and enough to know I need to give myself some grace and let some things go. I need God's wisdom and strength everyday.

So here are pictures of my three kids:

Not to overlook Rachel turning two on Sunday, I am posting this picture now because of the busy three day weekend we have planned. We are going to enjoy some of the fall weather tomorrow, going to New Bedford on Sunday to celebrate the shared birthday of Rachel and Kevin's grandmother, and going to the Rainforest Cafe on Monday to have a birthday dinner together. So Happy Birthday Rachel, we love having you in our life!

Pictures and Part time work

2009-10-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

Last week when we got back from our Florida trip, I got an e-mail from a person I had worked with on base offering me a part time job working in the Hazardous Materials Pharmacy on base. I played with the idea, asked around about child care, and found a situation that would work out for me and the kids for at least a few weeks. So next week I am starting a part time job just a few days a week, where I will be gone and back home even before Kevin gets home from work. I admit I am excited about the very family friendly opportunity, and thankful for the opportunity to keep my resume updated and a little time away from the kids may be healthy break for me right now. Kevin has started doing a compressed work schedule, so this weekend has been a little longer than most. The kids seem to be a little more clingy to Daddy lately, so the extra time every other week will work out well.

Rachel as been talking a lot about butterflies lately, and I gave her a early birthday present from Memere. And she looked so cute with her wings and princess dress on.

Noah has such a cute little personality right now, and he is interested in everything it seems. The Hokie colors look great on him....
Noah can get onto his side like wants to roll, I need to start watching out for that a little better.
Daniel is starting to have more conversations with us, and ask a lot more questions. We were talking about Rachel's birthday, and how he wants her to have an ice cream cake, and I asked him how old he thought I was. He said I was 5. He loves to put together puzzles and we have some good one on one time in the afternoon while Rachel still takes a 3 hour nap. I am adjusting to the no nap thing, although the bed time routine is so much easier with how tired he is. The next few weeks will be a different sort of busy for us, and we are one week away from having a two year old on our hands!

Noah at Three months

2009-09-29T12:12:00.000-07:00

Today Noah has been in our lives for 12 weeks...where has the time gone? He is so alert and ready to go, holding his head up and cooing a lot! He is 16 lbs now, I guess you can see it in his chubby kissable cheeks :-)

Walt Disney World Trip 2009

2009-09-26T07:41:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from our family Walt Disney World trip 2009, in no particular order. The trip was fantastic, the kids did great on the plane (thanks for the prayers), I had a lot of family help, and it seemed to be the quickest week of my life so far. I am trying to remember on what day what we did, but they are all blending together right now.

Here is Noah after his first plane ride, he did great! We couldn't fit all five of us in one row, but on the way down the DVD player worked well, and the kids slept on the ride back.

Me and my brother Joe and sister Beau...
Renee and Daniel enjoying a some time at Magic Kingdom
A good photo of Kevin and me!
Daniel seemed to enjoy the different modes of transportation, the buses, trains, monorails, boats, cars, walking, running, and strollering.
Lightning McQueen...kachow!
Rachel had a bunch of cute Mickey ears photos.
Noah and Buddy...

It was a great trip, and there is a lot for us to take back with us, besides all the Disney stuff. We need to work better at getting Daniel to listen to us the first time, there were a few situations that he got hurt because he didn't listen the first time, and Rachel is on the eve of her 2nd birthday, so we are working through the tantrumy two stage with her.

And now onto fall, the putting away of the summer clothes, and the joy of the cooler weather, and apples and pumpkins. I will miss the days of just going outside without the jacket, but we have some nice jackets and fall clothes to go through so bring it on.

Me Too!!

2009-09-11T05:29:00.001-07:00

We signed Daniel up for gymnastics again for the next few weeks. I found that he remembered a lot of the stuff he learned from it, and he even said it made him feel special. Wednesday the lessons started again, and when we got there the coach asked why I didn't sign Rachel up for it too. With my two month old in tow I said I didn't know if I could help out with Rachel and watch the little one, and she mentioned that they would help out and it wouldn't be a problem. So we tried it out and Rachel was a pro! She listened to the instructor, and was all over the different apparatus, jumping, crawling, running, just like the rest of them! Rachel's catch phrase is "Me Too", and it still surprises me how much she picks up and is able to do.

Rachel in the block pit.
I have been wanting to get back into jogging, so last weekend we bought a double jogging stroller off of Craigslist, to add to our single one, so we could take all three kids for a jog. We got this idea from the Thorson's, and we just run in the local cemeteries. We did it a few time this week after work, and it is a fun thing we can do with the kids without driving anywhere. The kids seem to enjoy it too, but it is getting a little cooler so we are going to need to bundle the kids up!

In the mean time Noah is now two months old, and really starting to show his personality. He has a little curl that forms on the top of his head, and he just wants to be a part of what the other two are doing. After Daniel and Rachel go to bed, I notice that Noah tends to coo and interact more, he finally gets a chance to talk!
Here are the kids playing at gymnastics, Rachel is in the lower right hand corner.

We have a very low key next few days, the quiet before our trip to Disney World. The plan is to pack this weekend, we need to start putting away the summer clothes anyways, and the countdown for the trip is on (I got that idea from the Libby's, we have the number of days left on the refrigerator so the kids hopefully have some concept of when the trip will happen). I am actually looking forward to the plane ride, yes it won't be easy, but Daniel and Rachel have their carry on luggage, and it is a joy to watch the new experiences through their eyes. But still, if you think of us next Thursday, send up a prayer for the family with three seat, and five people, on the early flight heading to Florida!

Making Up For Last Week

2009-09-04T12:13:00.001-07:00

We all recovered from last week's sickness, and went full force into this week. I saw my friend Lisa who was in town visiting family, and hung out with her daughter and family for a little on Monday:

We visited with Olivia on Tuesday:

We got Rachel's hair cut and some great professional pictures taken on Wednesday. Noah's baby pictures were taken, we got a good one of all three kids, and we were able to squeeze in Rachel's 2 year old picture, I was so happy I almost cried.
Took a baking break on Thursday, and went to the zoo today!
Kevin is currently en route and will be home tonight. It was hard with Kevin away, but the time sure did fly by, and Diane helped me with so much, the time really did go quickly!

Diane leaves on Sunday and we will have a pretty relaxing Labor Day weekend. Daniel's gymnastics will start again next week, and we are in preparation for the next trip, so here's to another quick two weeks!

Kid's Commentary

2009-08-31T12:21:00.000-07:00

I went to get a little video of just Noah, and it turned into a family affair. My voice was pretty raspy last week anyway, but it is funny to hear Daniel and Rachel interact without seeing them, and also just to see how Noah just takes it all in.