Our Wish for You this Holiday Season

As we look out the window, it certainly is beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Freshly fallen snow covers the ground, twinkling lights are all around us and the stockings are hung. Time just seems to pass so quickly, and we can not believe that 2009 is coming to an end. Our children are growing, and as parents, we have realized to grab on to these years, and try not to let go of the precious time we have together.

As the years pass, one thing remains constant in our lives…family. We do not have much time for ourselves, because we have devoted our lives to our children, and we would not have it any other way. Our love for one another and our children is what fills our heart with gladness. That love and our faith in God is the best gift we could receive this blessed season.

May your season be filled with love and joy, and we hope that you are surrounded by the greatest gift of all…family

Merry Christmas andHappy New year!

LSNED Sept. 30th

When I first heard of this project, I decided not to participate. September is a very chaotic month, and I thought I would never have the time to complete it.

I am thrilled that Ramona gave me this class as a gift. It has made me slow down, and really enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

I truly am blessed with a wonderful family, friends who I care deeply for, and a very rich life. God has been very good to me, and I am thankful.

LSNED Sept. 29th

One lesson that I have learned, as I get older is...that your children grow much too fast.

My babies have started school, and today they are six years old. Lately, they keep reminding me that my babies are growing up. They can NOT wait until they are "teenagers".

My advice, stay young at heart and enjoy your care free, fun filled childhood years!

LSNED Sept. 28th

Today Alec received the "BIG HIT" tee shirt. This shirt is awarded to a player who has a fantastic game on defense. His great game was against Clinton. He had 4 tackles, and he sacked the quarterback. He made a huge impact that day.

When I asked him what makes him so good on defense, he said..."I'm CRAZY, that's why!"

LSNED Sept. 27th

When you have a mix of heavy rain, mud and football...you have an afternoon of fun! (for the players, not the Mom's) The kids love sliding all over the field, and getting filthy.

I don't like it because I have to deal with the wet, muddy, stinky, laundry.

LSNED Sept. 26th

This past summer, our days were ruled by All Star baseball. Between practices and games, we could not plan a vacation. Our solution...we started letterboxing and hiking. It was a wonderful and fun way to explore the area around us.

The time we spent together was a learning experience, a time for laughs, healthy exercise, and a time to enjoy one another.

Now that school is is session, we all miss our hikes.

LSNED Sept. 25th

Ingrid was so excited today. She has been practicing for a few weeks, to tie her own shoes. Well today was the day, and she did it. She was so proud of herself, and I was as well. Ahe is now very independant, and feels all grown up.

This small, little task is going to make mornings a little easier!

LSNED Sept. 24th

It is very difficult to shop for a man who is 6' 8" tall. I can not find a 36" pant inseam or a 19/39 dress shirt in a traditional store. Even a big and tall shop does not always carry the sizes.

The hardest item to get for Chris is shoes. He is a 13EEEE, and has a very high instep. Every time he goes shoe shopping, he returns empty handed.

On Tuesday, I speical ordered some wing tips, and we needed themshipped next day for an interview Chris has today. I was so worried, luckily the shoes fit!

LSNED Sept. 23rd

It has been almost a month since Ryan has returned to Wesleyan, and he is greatly missed.

His sisters love and adore him, and the boys look up to him, and want to follow him where ever he goes. It drives Ryan nuts, but we just love him.

I am sure that deep, down inside, he misses us...but is having too much fun to admit it.

LSNED Sept. 22nd

Today was a bitter sweet day, my first born turned 21 and I am simply amazed at how times does pass much too quickly!

Journaling: September 22, 1988 was an absolutely gorgeous fall day. I had no idead that my first born child would enter the world that day.

You were not due for 2 more weeks, but you decided you were going to attend your baby shower, and you were the hit of the party.

I just can not believe 21 years have passed. You have brought me so much love, joy and pride. No matter how many years pass...you will always be my baby!

LSNED Sept. 21st

Today is the end of an absolutely spectacular weekend. Beautiful sky, warm temps., and a crispness in the morning air.

Unfortunately, summer is coming to an end. No more long days, no more relaxing by the pool and an end to warm days.

Fall will be here in two days, and I am sad to see summer leave us.

LSNED Sept. 20th

About 6 months ago, the unthinkable happened...my external hard drive crashed! Unfortunately, I am far from a techie, and did not have my photos backed up.

I was devastated...eight years and over 200 files of photos wiped out! I was in a state of depression for weeks.

Well today was a shock. Kathy's brother was able to recover my photos, and I cried tears of joy when she shared the news. I have now learned to back up my photos, and I am thrilled to have my photos back.

LSNED Sept. 19th

Today the girls spent the day with Grandma Tere, and they had a blast. They went shopping at Whole Foods Market and had a fun filled hour of face painting, arts & crafts, baking and they received a goodie bag filled with organic treats.


Then it was off to Lordes' house, and a pizza party and play date with her girls. They can not wait for another day of fun!

LSNED Sept. 18th

Not crazy about how this turned out, but I am not going to sweat the small stuff. A lesson I try to adhere to daily!


Journaling: I have been going to Dresser Hill all of my life. A trip to Dresser Hill entails a special treat of icecream and watching the sunset, from high above the valley.


Today however, Shelley and I decided to meet there for lunch. A platter filled with fried clams, onion rings and of course dessert. A wonderful treat and a must have for a late summer afternoon.

LSNED Sept. 17th

My husband may say he married me for my height, my athleticism and even my all around gene pool. The real reason he married me is for my cookies!


These colossial cookies are a combination of oatmeal, chunky peanut butter and chocolate chips. Of course the magic ingresient is love, and THAT is why my husband married me!

LSNED Sept 16th

I absolutely adore a sunny afternoon where I can curl up on the couch, with a great book and a diet coke. To me, these are the essentials to a relaxing afternoon

LSNED Sept. 15th

Some days I just wish I had no dogs, and then days like this, I share my husbands's train of thought...all boys must have a dog.

Journaling: These dogs love this little boy. They follow him where ever he goes, they sleep with him at night, and they can not wait until he gets home from school.

It is just wonderful to watch them, and watch their relationship grow. They truly are best friends!

LSNED Half Way Point

I am half way through this journey, and I am so glad that I am taking the time to Learn Something New Every Day.

The process has been simple...slow down, open your eyes and look for the simple pleasures in life. I am simply amazed at all the little things that make my life so special.

LSNED Sept. 14th

Today's lesson is one that I have been working on since I have had children. I really love to spend one on one time with each child.

These "dates" are a wonderful time of sharing, joy and much appreciated snuggles. They may be few and far between, but both Mom and children look forward to these special times.

LSNED Sept 13th

Every Sunday, my boys hassle me about going to church. As a kid I did the same thing to my Dad, and I am so happy he woke me every Sunday.

JOURNALING: Growing up I never realized the wonderful gift my father was giving to me. It did not come wrapped in pretty packaging, it did not cost lots of money, but this gift was priceless. This gift was my faith in God, and all the strength and love it gives me.


Now as a parent, I know how special this gift can be. I have used this gift to live my life, and I know some day my children will pass this gift to their children.

Most of you know, that Teddy the Dog is a chow hound...well this is a lesson I know, but seem to continue to do on a daily basis. Do you think Teddy learned his lesson? I doubt it.

Journaling: How many times have I put food in the trash, and Teddy the Dog gets into it?? Too many times to count!

Well today the little beast got what he deserved. He got the trash can cover stuck on his head, and he could get it off. Unfortunately for Teddy, we were gone all day, so he got to wear the cover for quite some time.

LSNED Sept. 11th

I can never forget the horrific day America was attacked by terrorists. The day began with a clear, blue sky, but sadly ended in darkness. No one could ever imagine the horror and pain that would affect us. So many lives were lost, and all of America was devastated.

When I see this photo of the twin towers, it gives me hope. Hope that eternal life will prevail. Hope that a new light will guide us, and hope that some day we may all find peace. May God bless America.

LSNED Sept. 10th

There are many days in my hectic life, where I spend more time in my car than my home. Between running errands, running the kids to their various activities, or the numerous trips to the supermarket...it just feels like I live in my car.

Luckily, I don't mind driving, and as long as the tunes are cranked, I am happy in my car!

LSNED Sept. 9th

I originally thought that on 09/09/09...I would journal about that for LSNED. When I received Shimelle'sprompt and she spoke about being grateful, I knew immediately my subject.

Karen and Jay Dunn had just stopped over the other day and gave me bags of slightly worn clothing for the boys, and even 2 darling little jackets for the twins. They are always so generous with their friendship, and we love them dearly.

Journaling: Chris and I have been very blessed. We are surronded by so much love from family and friends. One of the families we are so thankful for meeting is the Dunn family.

Karyn and Jay are filled with so much joy and kindness. We know that they are always there if needed. Their generoisty of clothes, rides and just someone to talk to means the world to us. We love them dearly and we are gratefulfor their friendship.

LSNED Sept. 8th

After 21 years, all six of my children have left the nest and headed out to school. I never thought this day would arrive, but it has...and I am very lonely.

It just seems surreal. The house is quiet (I am hearing funny noises), it has stayed clean, and I can actually sit down and enjoy my lunch.

Today I am lonely, but I am sure I will keep busy.

The Empty Nest

The last of my little birdies, have left the nest to attend school. Annaka and Eda are now full day kindergarten students. Annaka was so worried, that she kept asking me, "what will you do all day, will you miss us, will you be ok?"

After wiping away the tears this morning, and getting used to an unusually quiet house, I think I will find myself busier now...than ever before.

LSNED Sept. 7th

Many people celebrate Labor Day, as the unofficial last day of Summer.

Labor Day is a tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity and well being of our country.

During these hard, economic times I am going to stand up and celebrate America.

LSNED Sept. 6th

Little girls love to play dress up and host tea parties. Abigail, Annaka and Eda hosted a tea party and their guest of honor was Ross.

Now, you don't see many 25 year old men as tea party guests, but Ross enjoyed his special time with his cousins.

LSNED Sept. 5th

The phrase "football is life", truly describes our household. Chris is a high school football coach, Ryan plays college ball, and Christopher and Alec play youth football. Every night and weekend is September, October and November is consumed by football

Luckily, the girls and I love football.

LSNED Sept. 4th

September is my favorite month of the year. The weather is probably the best, because it falls between my two favorite seasons.

Crisp, cool, mornings and evenings, and low humidity with temps in the low 70's. A beautiful blue sky and you have perfection.

LSNED Sept 3rd

Annaka just loves to work out doors with her Daddy. She works out in the shed, does yard work, and even helped to build the stonewall this summer.

Like her Daddy, she knows how to kick back and relax...now only if her Mother could learn to do this!

LSNED Sept 2nd

Most of you know that I am a total fashionista. It started at a very young age, and it is what drove me to spend most of my working years with Estee Lauder. I love clothes, acessories and make-up. My new love however, are these fabulous rain boots. They are so fun and sassy. I wear them with everything...and some days I even wear them when it is not raining!

LSNED, September 1st

Today I learned, that no matter how many “first days” you experience…it is always very exciting!

Learn Something New Every Day

As many of you know, one of my hobbies is scrapbooking. Through this craft, I have met some wonderful and creative ladies. One of those lasies is Shimelle Laine. She hails from the UK, and is extremely talented. She hosts a fabulous webite and inspires all of us to find our creative side in the every day ordinary.

For this month I am participating in her Learn Something New Every Day on-line class. With this class, we must look around our busy life, and try to find out something new, and journal about it. I am so excited to begin this adventure.

So, for the month of September I am going to LIVE and LEARN. I will live by these words. I am going to slow down a bit, and look at the simple things going on around me. I promise to take a moment each day to Learn Something New...won't you join me?

The "Big Yellow Bus" has arrived

and I have sent four out of six children to school. Big Daddy has also gone back to school, and I am hoping to get back to my boring, scheduled life of house keeper, cook and taxi driver.

Annaka and Eda will attend kindergarten orientation this afternoon, and will start school full time next Tuesday. Then I really will not know what to do with myself (yeah, right!)

Here's to a successful and happy 2009-2010 school year!

The Official Last "Move In Day"

It's official...Ryan's Senior year at Wesleyan University, and Mom and Meme's last official move in day.

For the past four years we have moved him in to his dorms, apartment and this year a house. We have endured rain, heat and today, absolutely perfect weather. Also, we have dealt with numerouse flights of stairs. We have endured trips to Costco, hunted for the perfect tv stand, storage unit trips, all while trying to stick to a strict schedule, because we had to be back in time for football meetings.


This year Ryan is rooming with his room mate from Freshman year and 4 other guys. I am afraid to see what the house will look like on move out day! One thing for sure, Meme and I thought we were done with our duties until Ryan informed us we could help him, when he moves into Graduate School. We will have to see about that!

Many firsts

In the upcoming days, you will encounter many firsts. The first day of kindergarten, first bus ride, and today you lost your first tooth! It truly amazes me, how quickly time flies by.

I know you will take on each of these firsts, head on with enthusiasm and will come out on top. Mommy and Daddy are so proud of you, and we will stand behind you as you tackle growing up.

The Girls on Minnie Street

Here are my darling little girls, on the day of their dance recital. They did a tap routine to the song, "The Girls on Minnie Street". The number was adorable, and my little Minnies just shine on stage.

Dance begins in two weeks, and this year they have decided to join the intensive classes. This means an hour of ballet each week, along with tap and jazz. These classes will prepare them for competition dance. I on the other hand, will be carting them to the studio 4 times a week. What we do for our children!

my baby

I found this photo of Ryan in the big box from the attic. I just love how young and sweet he looks. This was taken the morning Christopher was born (1997). I remember he was excited, yet scared. He had been my baby for 9 years, and now he had to share me with someone else.

Now, he will be 21 in September. I miss the moments, where he would just snuggle up with me. I know he is a man now, but in my eyes and heart he will always be my baby.

all good things, must come to an end

and the winning streak of the Dudley 12 Year Old All-Stars ended last night. It was a tough loss, but we are so proud of the young men on this team. They have played together for the past 3 years as an All-Star team and have grown as athletes, and more importantly as young men.

They had some terrific highlights, including a 3 run homerun by Chris and Tanner, against Tantasqua, beating Shrewsbury for the first time and an amazing double play by Curtis.

They can hold their heads up high, because they always played hard and were good sports. We are so proud of you and look forward to watching you play next year.

embrace....

Lately, life is just crazy, busy and I am always on the go. I am always focused and serious on the tasks at hand. I never seem to just stop and enjoy the life around me.

I wish I could embrace my silly side , like Annaka and her friend Sarah. I wish I could just forget about the craziness for just one day, and be carefree and silly.

I am going to try this...even if it is for only five minutes, I bet it will feel amazing. So please join me and embrace your silly side!

Make a Wish

Life has been hectic, and I have not updated my blog for a long time. This is my beautiful Ingrid, on her 8th birthday. She is not only beautiful on the outside, she is truly beautiful on the inside.

Her dream is to save $250, so she can adopt a polar bear family. Her concern for the polar bears has even caused me to do my part in saving the earth and recycle.

She also want to go and help people "build houses, who are to poor to build their own." She wants to take care of the elderly and just bring peace to all mankind.

Those are some pretty lofty wishes, for a little girl. I know she will make quite qn impact in her life and I am so proud of my beautiful girl!

TODAY

My dear friend, Karen (sethro) has inspired me to go up in the attic and dig out that box full of old photos. I found a treasure chest filled with over 44 years of memories.

Here is one photo I fell in love with. It is Christopher, when he was just 2 years old. JOURNALING: Today you are strong willed. Today you are filled with wonder. Today you are questioning authority. Today you are kind. Today you are fearless. Today you are loved.

And these are all qualities that will make you successful tomorrow.

So I challenge you to go up in the attic, in the basement, or in the closet and dig out that old box of photos. You will find a life filled with treasure.

Pure Cuteness

She has lipstick all over her face and pony tails flapping in the wind...she is just pure cuteness! Need I say more?

I promise...

I know it has been awhile since I have posted anything on my blog. Life has just taken over, and some days I can barely make it through the day, never mind taking photos and posting.

I promise that in the next few days, I will share some of the craziness. I just want one day, just one, where I can stay in my jammies all day and do nothing, but play on the computer and scrap!

This is Elmer Fudd weather!

With over a foot of snow dumped on us Sunday night, and the bitter cold temperatures...there is only one word and fashion statement that can be used...
Elmer Fudd!

Alec is the model Fudd.