The McNamaras

"Expectations"

2012-01-11T17:57:00.000-08:00

In the midst of a struggle to find comfort and solace, comes quite possibly the best remedy there is.

For those we have lost will be tangible once more because of one small person.

We cannot wait to meet you. We love you already.

The Call - 2011

2012-01-11T17:53:00.000-08:00

They took up his time, they kept him on his toes, they checked in on the elves.

It's long, but it's necessary folks.

And Santa delivered.

A McNamara Tradition

2012-01-11T17:45:00.001-08:00

On December 17th, anyone with the last name McNamara, made their way to East Greenwich, RI at the beckoning of Nana and Gramp to receive their gift of warm food and warm people at their annual holiday dinner. There were many McNamaras we wish could have joined us, but we tried to live up to the name despite their absences. A very large "thank you" to Nana and Gramp for spoiling us with some much-needed family time!

A Very Chatham Christmas 2011

2012-01-11T17:26:00.001-08:00

I feel like I just posted last year's Chatham Christmas celebration and here I am doing it again! With only the Preneta Family unable to be with us, we had a very respectable turnout at the Reed home in Rehoboth for the annual holiday extravaganza. Robin and Dave - again - threw a fantastic, worry-free party. My only complaint? It all went by too quickly. We were joined this year by little Valentina Tieri, perhaps the missing (and coveted I might add) piece to the Chatham puzzle...and what a beauty! I'd say from the pictures that follow, this party was pretty darn fun...

Giving Thanks

2012-01-11T17:11:00.000-08:00

So many things to be thankful for. SOOOOOOO good to be part of this family...

Uno, dos, TRES!

2011-11-19T19:22:00.000-08:00

Yes, ladies and gentlemen. He's 3. Hard to believe we've been entertained by this guy for only 3 years when it seems as though he's always been with us. I suppose in spirit, he has. And thank God for that. You have made us complete Michael. We are forever grateful and forever in love.

Not to be Outdone

2011-11-19T19:15:00.000-08:00

Approximately 30 minutes after Maeve hopped off the school bus from her first day of Kindergarten, her brother, Michael very deftly stole the spotlight by log-rolling off of our bed and onto our wood floor, breaking his right clavicle on the way down.

Here he is, sporting his figure-eight harness, compliments of Sturdy Memorial Hospital:

And how was he feeling 48 hours after the injury? Why don't you see for yourself:

Transitions

2011-11-19T19:00:00.000-08:00

Where did the time go? I still remember the songs that played on the hospital's Muzak system the night the nurse suggested I walk around a bit to encourage the labor process along. She weighed less than 6 pounds and we had to feed her with a syringe for weeks after she was born like she was a tiny bird. And now, our bird has just discovered she has wings. And for the next 15 years, she'll exercise those wings so that she'll be able to take off on her own and hopefully, not look back. We'll be watching her though (even if it's behind a pair of sunglasses in the pouring rain) and holding our breaths that she continues to succeed and grow the way she has these last 5 and 1/2 years. Our little baby, our little fledgling, our Maeve. And so it begins: Kindergarten.

Our "farwell" picture with Pat at Rocky Hill Family Day Care...

The big day..

Goodnight Irene

2011-11-19T18:53:00.001-08:00

Five days without electricity. Running to the basement during the worst of the storm because we (well, mostly Chris) were worried the large tree in front was going to come down squarely onto our roof. Bridget falling asleep in the basement because 1) Chris told us to go down there and 2) what else is there to do in a dark basement while you're lying on the floor waiting for the power to be restored? However, we braved the storm and ended up with lots of firewood for the wintertime. So, thanks Irene - for saving us the money we would have otherwise spent on a cord of wood.

Kumbaya

2011-11-19T18:42:00.000-08:00

And so I found myself encouraging Chris to pick out whatever tent he wanted (within reason) as a gift for his 40th birthday because I knew we couldn't put off the experience of "family camping" any longer. So we bought a tent, packed up our things and headed for Freeport, ME (dangerously close to toilets that flushed, outlet stores and Starbucks). It was at the Recompence campground that we pitched our home for the night. The kids had a blast, Chris had fun when he wasn't dealing with me and for myself? I think I need to put some more camping experiences under my belt to REALLY appreciate it. Here are some pics from our excursion.

Together Again

2011-11-01T18:14:00.001-07:00

Although not at our fullest potential, the Chatham loyalists did their best to represent those that could not be with us this summer for our annual Scarborough love-fest. At the close of each Chatham gathering, I am warm and fuzzy all over and surrounded by the promise that true friendships are not forced or posed or judged by those that forge them, the noble way. Eight friendships based on mutual love, admiration and respect have blossomed into some of the best times of our adults lives. Jen, Larissa and Meg - you and yours were missed but not forgotten. We did our best to roll out the welcome mat for little Lucy as we anticipated whether the next welcome mat would be a shade of blue or pink. Hats off to Jodi and Kevin. We are forever grateful.

Chris and I continue to be enriched by these good, good friends. Here's to the holidays with all of you. Cheers!

Land of Stories

2011-11-01T17:44:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you a story...

The McNamaras invade the park!

Jackson Falls

Discoveries...

"Kayin, what I'm trying to tell you is, we're totally out-numbered by the girls. Trust me on this one."

Las Banditas

The Outlaws

Ice cream pucker/release

Thanks for the memories New Hampshire.

1971

2011-11-01T17:34:00.000-07:00

Led Zeppelin releases their untitled fourth album

Following on from the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967, National Public Radio (NPR) broadcasts for the first time in April 1971

Cigarette Advertising Ended on Television in USA

Women are granted the right to vote in Switzerland

The US table tennis team visits to the People's Republic of China (PRC) known as "Ping Pong Diplomacy"

As if the Table Tennis team's visit to China wasn't exciting enough for 1971, Chris McNamara was born in Seattle Washington exactly 40 years ago.

To celebrate? Dinner at the Back Eddy in Westport, MA. Here's to at least another 40 my love.

Sweet Simplicity

2011-09-03T18:16:00.000-07:00

Otis

2011-08-07T18:50:00.000-07:00

Over the last several years we, as a family, have really come to treasure our Moore Family summer vacations. It's not so much the location as it is the company and the sometimes, timeliness of the trip that have served to fortify us and inspire us to support each other so fiercely. It's a chance to leave all of the "unnecessary" behind for a while to concentrate on the "necessary" that IS family. It's a chance to laugh, to heal, to savor, to hope and to love each other. This year, Dad selected Otis, MA as our destination and it served us well indeed. There were times of uproarious laughter, times of quiet and rest and countless moments of memory-making which is something we have become very adept at. We are so grateful for these times that our parents have made possible for us. So grateful.

Destination: Otis

Breakfast Al Fresco

Bonfires

The Porch

The Journalist

Hayden Pond

A-ka

The Front Porch Sessions...

"Hazel" Maeve

The Real Housewives of Otis

Michael

The Memory Makers

Check

2011-08-07T18:25:00.000-07:00

Adios Knotty Pine

2011-08-07T18:11:00.001-07:00

She's off! Maeve has checked Pre-School off of her ever-expanding list of Things-To-Do. She was joined by some grandparents and some great-grandparents who were very eager to witness the momentous occasion. Mother Nature spoiled us with the perfect sunny, but breezy day. Our little girl isn't so little anymore.

The onlookers...

Maeve and friend, Zoey

Maeve and her best buddy from school, Jake.

"The Jig is Up"

2011-08-07T17:54:00.000-07:00

With her first-ever Irish Step recital under her belt, Maeve is now bursting with excitement (and a wee bit of pride I might add) as she looks forward to the continued tutelage of Ms. Erin in the Fall. You'll see from the video that there were a "range" of dancers in her Ages 3-5 class, and although Maeve was the only one who insisted that the instructor dance with her to kill the nerves, she has the technique pretty well figured out. We are happy that she has found something that she enjoys and will support her until she finds something else to tackle. The guy at the end of this post isn't too bad either...

Kayin Effie

2011-06-07T18:55:00.000-07:00

On a warm Sunday afternoon, Kayin Effie, just 18 months old, paid us a visit...

Practice Makes Perfect

2011-06-07T18:52:00.000-07:00

With only a week left to her first Irish Step recital, Maeve practices her steps under the watchful eye of Ms. Erin and Dad's camera...

Seize The Day

2011-06-07T18:43:00.000-07:00

A Carnival of Cousins

2011-06-07T18:32:00.001-07:00

Yard Work

2011-06-07T18:19:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. That's right. Put the kids to work. Make them go directly from Irish Step lessons to the wheelbarrow.

Mother's Day on the South Shore

2011-06-07T18:05:00.001-07:00

After a relaxing lunch at Alden Park Restaurant in Plymouth, some Moores and McNamaras headed over to some Clasbys at the Kramer household on Second Brook Street for some way-too-yummy dessert and some good, old fun in the backyard.

I ask you, what get-together would be complete without Uncle Frank's magic ball trick?

This year's recipients of the Best Mother and Best Godmother award...

Getting down and dirty in the back yard

New Perspective

2011-06-07T18:02:00.000-07:00

Another year older (and a another year sporting more gray hair than the year before), earns you a new camera!

Mothers: It's Good Stuff, Man

2011-06-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

Amazing

2011-05-05T17:02:00.000-07:00

After dinner, we decided to take a family bike ride. Yes, that included me. I watched Chris brush off about 3 years worth of carpentry dust off my bike and I got back in the saddle again. With Maeve on her training bike and Michael sitting on the back of Chris' bike, off we went on a 30 minute ride that included a sun shower and a rainbow. Both bonuses we surmised. Until we got back to our house and Maeve made the announcement in our rain-soaked driveway that she'd like to attempt riding her bike without the training wheels. Not sure if it was the miraculous event of seeing her Mom (finally) riding a bike, but either way, Maeve's efforts turned out to be the best part about our adventure. What you won't see in these videos is the complete meltdown Maeve had when we announced that it was time to go in for the evening. We decided to spare you all those details...this time.

Shenanigans R Us

2011-05-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

Elegance is Learned, My Friend

2011-05-05T16:57:00.000-07:00

Here's What True Love Looks Like

2011-04-14T07:24:00.001-07:00

Because I have no way of composing the perfect entry for this most sacred of events, the following is a copy of the toast given by my sister Jen (Mom and Dad's oldest child) at their surprise 40th wedding anniversary celebration. Well done Jen. Cheers Mom and Dad!

Forty Years of Love

I thank you, on behalf of my sisters and brothers for coming today. We are here to celebrate forty years of love – forty years of Kathy and Tom, Mum and Dad. My sisters elected me to make the speech. I’ve been fretting over it for awhile now grappling with the emotions I feel contemplating the love my parents have for one another, for all of us, for me. Perhaps that’s why I didn’t get the speech written until last night.

I write this in the coziest room at 595 State Street struggling for the right sentiments, struggling for brevity. I scan the room distracted, procrastinating. My mother’s knitting is at my feet, neatly waiting to be taken up again, ready I think for Monday’s installment of All My Children. My Dad’s crossword is discarded on the coffee table. There’s the bookcase lined with Asimov, Macdonald, Conan Doyle, Kipling. There’s the odd pile of DVDs, mixed in with KTD-era VHS tapes, plucked from some dark recess for Maeve’s and Michael’s entertainment. Are Maeve and Michael sleeping upstairs right now? For there’s the ‘Madeline’ game Pa made and laminated and surely those coloring books and crayons were just used; Michael’s left the train out beside the plastic farm animals.

And now I’m thinking of farms, there’s the framed print of the Annual Christmas Sing at Red Acres; looking long enough at it, I am almost certain I see the “FAs” toasting marshmallows around that bonfire. Other wall - a framed print of buildings on the Stonehill College campus; was it not the proving ground for two teaching careers and the origin-point of a lifelong friendship with John and Jessie, Bob and Paula?

I scan the framed photographs on the sofa table. There is Nana Rafferty on her 90th birthday; Mum with her sisters in Somerset, Pudding Rock; Dad and Uncle Terry (his Best Man) at Eileen and Scott’s wedding. There are my uncles in the dining room of 85 Main and the big group photo of the Clasby and Moore clans taken at a summer cookout a few years back. I give serious consideration to hiding the framed photo-collage of my sisters and me in Locke Dance Studio costumes but opt to “re-position” it behind a photo of Paka, Great Uncle John, and Great Nana Rafferty. It’s then I start reaching deep into cabinets and realize there’s a framed photograph of every one of my cousins. I find old yearbooks and pull them down from the shelves; didn’t my parents first meet at Sacred Heart? Here’s The Corric from 1961. Dad and Dennis Quinn are senior class officers. A sepia-toned photo falls from the pages; it’s my Dad at six or seven years old in a Lone Ranger sweater. And here’s The Corric from 1962; my mother is in student council…a lot of boys have signed this yearbook! And is that Aunt Gret as the May Queen? I move over one shelf and there are the framed photos of Nana and Grampa Moore and the manila envelope that contains Dad’s genealogical research.

It is all here; forty years and more of history documented, archived. I chuckle as I realize you are all so present in this small room at 595 State Street, gathered here tenderly over the years by Mum and Dad. And for love of them, you are here today to help us honor this marvelous achievement; forty years together, forty years of love. Kathy and Tom - Mum and Dad - forty more, please.

Old Friends = Great Time

2011-02-16T12:10:00.000-08:00

I'm ashamed to post that I only have one photo and one video to accompany this entry. However, let that be an indication of the good time that was had by us when the Santalucia Family came down to Seekonk for a visit. The kids played hard, the adults laughed/ate hard and we were warmed once more by their friendship. The only problem is, these get-togethers just make us want to see them more often. I'd say that's a pretty good problem to have.

Winter Warm-Up

2011-02-16T12:08:00.001-08:00

Chili and popovers anyone?

Mysterious

2011-02-16T12:03:00.001-08:00

After an assortment of threats from select family members, this is the only photo I am at liberty to post from the Star Trek Themed How to Host a Mystery party. No one was without costume and everyone was a winner. Of course.

Exit 2010, Enter 2011

2011-02-16T12:00:00.001-08:00

Snip It. Snip It Good.

2011-02-16T11:48:00.000-08:00

A last minute decision was sprung into action when the kids and I arrived at Snip-Its for their first-ever professional haircuts. Someday I'll try to explain to them that despite all of their tears that day, the experience was most certainly more traumatic for me than it was for them.

Note the "seat belt" around his waist...

Oh, God, oh God...

Let me just map out the nearest exit for my escape...

You have no idea what coaxing it took to get Maeve into this shampoo chair. No idea.

Snip...Snarl...

Snip...Smirk...

The Blow Out...

With their prizes in hand and their baby hair tucked securely in a zip lock bag for their memory boxes, we took one last photo at the "salon" for posterity...

A little Ramen sometimes makes everything a WHOLE LOT better:

Desperate Times Call for Desperate Measures

2010-12-30T16:35:00.000-08:00

What do you get when you cram a bearded man with a guitar and an on-the-spot custom-written potty song, a glass of Cabernet perched precariously on the sink, a 4-year-old reading Eric Carle stories in her bathing suit and sneakers in the bathroom with your 2-year old whom you're trying to coax into doing some token tinkles in his potty for a lousy sticker?

Nothing.

Nothing except a really, really good potty song.

The Call - 2010

2010-12-30T16:21:00.000-08:00

Random Sibling Holiday Pictures

2010-12-30T16:18:00.000-08:00

Hmmm...

Jack Nicholson...

A Very Chatham Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T16:11:00.000-08:00

Here we are! Yes, another year has gone by, our kids are a year older and we are looking hotter than ever! Tee, hee. And speaking of kids, welcome little Lucy Deiboldt to the first of many Chatham House festivities for her! Can I get a L-U-C-Y? Please take special notice of the photo of Maeve and her new BFF of the Jersey are, Sophia. Otherwise known as, Thelma and Louise. I love my Chatham girls now and always. Such a blessing to have such wonderful friends. Thank you to Robin and Dave for making it all possible!!!

Advent

2010-12-30T16:09:00.001-08:00

Chris takes the tree clippings and constructs our advent wreath for the season. Waste not.

Let Us Give Thanks

2010-12-30T15:57:00.000-08:00

After 5 long years of thanking other people for feeding us on Thanksgiving Day, we decided it was our time to step back up to the plate (the last time we hosted was in 2005 while I was pregnant with Maeve). Our new kitchen was another great reason to host the event and really break it in! Our menu deviated a bit from what some might consider a truly traditional feast, but our guests were ever-gracious and ever-eager to sample whatever we threw at them and we feel like we did a pretty good job with things. We were happy to defer to Meg and Jonathan for the dessert portion and journeyed just a few miles up the road to satisfy our sweet tooth. Our 2010 Thanksgiving menu:

Spice-Rubbed Grilled Turkey Breast with Citrus Glaze
Stuffing with Hot & Sweet Peppers, Cranberries and Dried Figs
Butternut Squash
Roasted Potatoes, Brussel Sprouts and Fennel
Green Bean Casserole (gotta have it...)
Piping hot dinner rolls and Cranberry sauce

Because I bought twice as much turkey breast as I needed to, we'll look forward to reliving the experience some time later this winter! Here are only a few shots from our home the day of. Hey, when you're cooking away, who has time to take photos?

Star Gazing

2010-12-30T15:49:00.000-08:00

While Bridget was out on the town with her friends one night a few weeks back, Chris bundled up the kiddos right around bedtime and jumped in the car, sleeping bag in tow, to head over to the nearby Audubon property for some Meteor showers. I don't believe they saw anything shimmering above them that night but the adventure of it all was certainly worth the trip.

Photo by Maeve...

Virginia is for Lovers

2010-11-09T18:54:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, Chris and I set out on a little adventure together to join Katie in her current neck of the woods, Williamsburg, VA. It was somewhat of a covert operation actually - a deal Mom and I struck together. "Bridget, I'll take care of your babies if you take care of mine." So, one quick hand shake later and Chris and I landed in Newport News, VA. We could not have asked for better weather and certainly could not have asked for a better host and tour guide than Katie. She is snugly into her second year of a Masters in Computer Science program at the College of William and Mary. She made every effort to clear her schedule so that she could devote all of her attention and energies our way which we will forever be indebted to her for. I also scored her student discount when I purchased M&M matching William and Mary sweatshirts at the college bookstore!

Our first morning in VA, Nov. 6th (Happy Birthday, Mom...), we headed out to Aromas for a killer breakfast to kick start our day of sightseeing

Then it was off to the campus of William and Mary for Katie's grand tour! The College of William and Mary is the second oldest college in America, Harvard being the first.

Despite Katie's technical know-how and the hopes that I might have inherited some stragglers of the uber intelligent genes that she did in that regard, we managed to inadvertently videotape a sitting for a group photo before actually snapping an official one...

Then it was off to McGlothlin-Street Hall to check out Katie's computer science digs...

As we emerged from one of the many buildings we visited on campus, we realized that there was some version of a re-enactment taking place on the grounds of Colonial Williamsburg which is situated almost seamlessly beside the campus. So we hightailed it over to the green to catch the end of a fife and drum performance and take a few photos of the Governor's mansion...

All of that footing around campus stirred up a mean appetite, and Katie's promise of a gourmet sandwich lured us back to her place on South Henry Street..

Although I didn't take any photos to document the evening's festivities, we enjoyed a lovely dinner at the Williamsburg Winery, a short drive from Katie's place. Seared tuna steak for Bridge, chicken with lump crab meat for Chris and cheese tortellini for Kate. And, can we recommend the reserve 2006 Trianon blend if you're ever in the area?

Sleeping in a bit (and for Chris and I, that meant after 8 AM) was in order for Day Two in Williamsburg and once again, Katie
used her culinary prowess to dish up a hearty breakfast of eggs, bacon and toast accompanied by french vanilla coffee from her french press. Mmmmm. Following breakfast, a little shopping was had by all, followed by a little french onion soup had by all at the Blue Talon Bistro.

Then, it was time to set our plan for the day in motion and head out to Jamestowne, the site of the first permanent English settlement in America. There, we walked the land at the banks of the James River that was settled over 400 years ago by the English (13 years before the Mayflower landed at Plymouth Rock). There are still plots of land at this site being excavated today. Check out these super sultry shots of us as we attempt to absorb the history that enveloped us as we combed the grounds of Jamestowne...

Hot...

Hotter...

As evening crept in, we made the wise decision to retire to the comfort of Katie's place. Sweatpants adorned all as we met at the dining table for some pizza and peppery arugula salad. And before the last pair of eyelids closed, we managed the most recent episode of Sherlock Holmes on PBS as we snuggled together beneath the ruffles.

I ask you, what is better than time spent with those you love? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. See you at Thanksgiving Katie.

Concealment

2010-11-09T18:43:00.000-08:00

All There is to Know

2010-11-09T18:38:00.001-08:00

I'm kicking myself for not sharing until now this conversation that Maeve had with her Dad several months ago ...

Maeve: Hey Dad. I think I know all that I need to know about life.

Dad: Oh yeah? What's that?

Maeve: Three things. You should share with others. You should remember to shut off the lights when you're not using them. And I know that if you itch your mosquito bites, it will make them worse.

And, according to Maeve, that's all you really need to know.

Happy Halloween

2010-11-09T18:13:00.000-08:00

There was tricking and treating had by all this year in the McNamara family. So much so, that my kids had multiple costumes throughout the weekend. Yes, in true McNamara fashion, we managed to spread Halloween over a 4 day period. Go big or go home.

First I give you Maeve - otherwise known as Princess Ariel - at her pre-Halloween celebration at Knotty Pine Nursery School, complete with a parade of all the kids around the neighborhood...

On Thursday night, Maeve chose to switch gears a bit and kick it back in a 2T-sized outfit for Bat Man. I give you, Skin-tight Bat Girl and her reluctant side kick, Elephant, naturally:

And now, for the big reveal on All Hallows Eve, the pièce de résistance, Michael the pirate and the Triumphant return of Ariel...

And what Halloween entry would be complete without a short film on the effects of ingesting a piece of Halloween candy after cleaning your dinner plate? I present the Sticky Tendencies of a Box of Milk Duds...

Irish Step

2010-11-03T09:47:00.001-07:00

Lessons have begun! Maeve is in a beginner's class through the Haley School for ages 3-5 and seems to be taking to it. Here's a shot of her in her bubble socks before her first class. We had to order the traditional soft shoe (ghillies) for her and we'll update the blog with a photo when they're in!

Nice job, Dad

2010-10-08T08:50:00.001-07:00

La Salle Teacher Michael McNamara '63 Honored

9/29/2010

La Salle Academy graduate and current math and computer science teacher Michael McNamara ’63 has been named as the recipient of the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award for the 2010-11 school year.

The award is given annually to three teachers in the District of Eastern North America (DENA) who “exemplify the ideals of St. John Baptist de La Salle, Patron Saint of Christian Teachers of Youth.” Mr. McNamara will officially receive the award at the Huether Conference in mid-November in Cincinnati.

La Salle Academy graduate and current math and computer science teacher Michael McNamara ’63 has been named as the recipient of the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award for the 2010-11 school year.

The award is given annually to three teachers in the District of Eastern North America (DENA) who “exemplify the ideals of St. John Baptist de La Salle, Patron Saint of Christian Teachers of Youth.” Mr. McNamara will officially receive the award at the Huether Conference in mid-November in Cincinnati.

Mr. McNamara was nominated for the for the award by the La Salle Academy Lasallian Ministry Team/Team Coordinator Brother Frederick Mueller and La Salle President Brother Michael Mc Kenery.

The award is sponsored by the Regional Education Board, an arm of Christian Brothers Conference in the name of all Lasallians of the United States/Toronto Region.

He's Two!

2010-10-07T08:02:00.000-07:00

Michael Brennan turned Two years old on October 6th! We began our birthday celebration over the weekend in Hanson and of course, I forgot my camera but I believe pictures were snapped and if I can, I'll try to add them to this post at a later date. On his actual birthday, we enjoyed a homemade pizza dinner and were joined in our celebrating by Gramp and Auntie Erin. Michael scored a homemade sweater from Na, a pirate playground set, some pirate accessories from Auntie Lee and Uncle Scott, a new Bruins hoodie for the upcoming hockey season, some Thomas the Train "train cars" to add to our existing collection (which he has been enjoying non-stop) and some really special books from Gramp and Martha. Michael, we can't believe you are two now and we're astounded by your charm, your wit, your wisdom and your love. You are our beautiful boy and we love you...all the time.

Mystic

2010-10-07T07:50:00.000-07:00

As a pre-birthday celebration for Michael and another "Responsibility Chart" reward for another great week had by Maeve, we headed down to Mystic, CT to see the sights at the Mystic Aquarium. We had a terrific time filling our afternoon with touch pools, sea lion shows and discoveries left and right. The weather was beautiful and our day would have been perfect, had the Seekonk Library given us the correct pass for the Aquarium instead of the pass for the Mystic Seaport. Oh well. I'd still say our time together was worth every penny. Check it out...

Peter Pan

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

My son is obsessed with the 1954 musical of Peter Pan, starring Mary Martin as Peter Pan. He is mainly enthralled by the pirates in the musical, but basically knows each move that each character makes and each note sung by each character. I suppose if any one of us tried hard enough, we could re-enact the entire play ourselves, start to finish, from sheer overexposure. Each time the "pirate song" comes on our CD player (because, yes, we not only own the movie, but the soundtrack as well) here's what happens. Pay special attention to my son, won't you?

Caratunk

2010-10-07T07:31:00.001-07:00

We've embarked on a quest to improve Maeve's "outlook" (aka, behavior) on things and have recently employed a responsibility chart (thank you, Larissa) to keep her on the right track. So far it has proved to be working and Maeve seems more invested in her own personal contribution to our family unit. As a reward for her first week of good progress, she and Chris ventured by bike over to some property in Seekonk, owned and operated by the Audubon Society, known as Caratunk. Below are some photos from their first great adventure together. And by the way Maeve, Mom and Dad are very proud of you. Keep up the good work!

One Last Outing...

2010-09-16T12:14:00.000-07:00

Somewhat spontaneously (that is to say, within 48 hours) Chris and I made the decision to hit the Boston Children's Museum with the kiddos and then Make our way by T to back bay for dinner. It turned out to be the perfect day. The kids were great, even without naps, the weather was beautiful and the day was easy on our wallets! We'd do it again in a heartbeat!

Rescue Me

2010-09-16T11:46:00.001-07:00

Could somebody please come to Seekonk NOW and transport me back to Vermont?! Lake Rescue in VT to be more specific. Even though it is almost four weeks post vacation, I am still mourning our departure from the Towering Pines Chalet we called home for a week in Ludlow, VT. I can't say the week was perfect because we were missing a couple of key players, otherwise known as Katie and Scott, and the weather was a bit rainy for the first few days but it was just what we needed in terms of a get-away and clearly, we'd still love to be doing more of it!

The chalet, Towering Pines, affectionately named by its owners, situated in it's own little cove on Lake Rescue

Dad, Chris and Jen venture to the Birthplace of Calvin Coolidge and (perhaps more importantly) the birthplace of some really good beer, Long Trail!

Doing some Lake time...

Aunties who did some serious overtime...

Making memories...

A Blessing

2010-09-16T11:32:00.000-07:00

My Grandmother, Dorothy Rafferty, turned 90 this summer. What an achievement. And thanks to the hard work of a lot of different people, we were able to come together and celebrate her at a beautiful party hosted by the Ariagno Family in Somerset, MA. Although I spent almost all of my time accounting for my children and making sure they had something in their bellies, and hardly spent any time sitting and talking with my beautiful grandmother, I did muscle my way through the crowd and into her arms to drink in her perfume and tell her that I loved her as she sat in the warm sunshine.

A Little T&T Anyone?

2010-09-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

This summer, we had the pleasure of spending some quality time with Chris' Uncle Terry and his son, Chris' cousin, Turlough. The perfect house guests, Terry and Turlough fit right into the buzz of our lives and spoiled us with their music, stories and love. If Turlough lived on the east coast, he'd be making a boat-load of money as our number 1 babysitter because he is an absolute natural with children. He spoke to each little one he encountered during his visit, not as if they were kids, but as if they were one of his peers and made each one of them feel like the most important person in the room. It actually taught me a thing or two about how I sometimes deal with my own kids...or don't. Terry, seemed to carve out quality time with each of us that week on numerous occasions and as he always does, made sure that nothing was more important to him than what we were sharing with him at that very moment. Before they departed for home (Corvalis, OR) we vowed that we'd see them again, sooner rather than later, and God-Willing, on their turf instead of ours. Saying good-bye to them, without a doubt, was one of the worst parts of our summer.

Forever Friends

2010-09-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

It just goes to show, that sometimes the passage of time makes no difference in life when certain relationship are concerned. After enjoying a mini-reunion with some old friends first founded in Phoenix, AZ, it was clear to me that you cannot forget people in your life with whom you've shared some extraordinary experiences. It was nice to be in the company of these terrific ladies once again and to watch our kids running around together for the night was the trippiest experience I've had in a very LONG time! A special thanks to Dave Darrah for his exemplary grilling skills and even better pyrotechnics! Once again Jo and Dave, you outdid yourselves. Thanks again for making the night a success!

Scarborough-Bound!

2010-08-12T19:20:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year again people! The Chatham chickadees (and their respective peeps) take on the town of Scarborough, ME and tear it up! Well, not really, but it sounds exciting. It's more like, we pack a gigantic amount of crap into our cars and race each other up Route 95 to see who can place the first order of fish and chips at Ken's Place on Friday night. Jodi and Kevin, as usual, were nothing short of spectacular in their hosting abilities which included this year, a special celebration for Baby-Deiboldt-To-Be. Feast your eyes on the festivities from another unforgettable weekend up north...

Friday night...

Happy Birthday Chris - our private celebration in the hotel suite...

Shots from our Saturday afternoon at the Beach. A gorgeous, sunny day. Chris forgot his hat. So Maeve let him borrow hers...

The cook-out/baby shower...another bambino to add to the Chatham crew. Can't wait!

Enfield 2010

2010-08-12T19:11:00.000-07:00

It was back to Enfield, NH we went for what has become an annual get-away. All we could manage was a long weekend but it seemed to provide just enough relaxation to satisfy us and as you can see, the kids had a blast. Thanks to Michelle for supplying the girls' swimwear. Lake Mascoma never looked so good...

Special Delivery from Medical Springs

2010-08-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

Chris' Uncle Kevin McNamara paid us east-coasters a visit from his home in Medical Springs, OR. We appreciate all of his efforts to get to us - especially after laying out his journey on a map of the U.S. for Maeve! We enjoyed lots of laughter and good food over a number of days and have grown more and more to appreciate these times shared with family members that we don't have the luxury of seeing very often. Kevin, in his very charming and unassuming way, slipped right into the hum of our lives here on the eastern shore and we soaked him up as much as we could before saying good-bye. We rest assured that there is nothing more important than family and we're so grateful to Kevin for reminding us of that.

P.S. Kevin's wearing one of our wedding favor t-shirts! Hooray for Kevin!

Unite or Die

2010-08-12T18:46:00.000-07:00

This year we did the 4th of July Hanson-style. Complete with a Unite or Die cake fashioned painstakingly by Jen and Katie. Although I didn't get pictures of everyone, we were all there taking part in the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence on the deck, spear-headed by Jen, and enjoyed some savory offerings from Pa's grill and Eileen's summer panzanella. We also enjoyed watching Scott run in and out of the sprinkler set up for Maeve and Michael...or was it really secretly set up for Uncle Scott? We do largely regret not being able to walk in the Red Acres parade but hope to get our patriotic behinds there next year perhaps?

Mother's Day/Father's Day

2010-08-12T18:37:00.000-07:00

They came, they went, we celebrated and look...here are a couple of pictures of us really enjoying the reasons (the Maeve-ster and the Mike-ster) we became a Mom and Dad in the first place. Please note the homemade shirt I'm wearing that Chris and Maeve worked so hard on. It's tiny little colorings of various princesses - yes Maeve colored every one - which Chris then ironed on to a t-shirt for me. Just for me.

Is Anybody Out There?

2010-08-12T18:29:00.000-07:00

Hello all! My apologies to all you faithful followers - you know who you are. Although I've had many good intentions to update this thing and all of you, other happenings have taken priority over my precious computer during these hot sticky summer days. But I'm back (at least for now) and am about to basically regurgitate our entire summer into your face to the point of dry heaving I believe. Get ready for a McNamara binge...

The Budding Musician

2010-07-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

And we can all say, we knew her when...

Hot Fun in the Summertime

2010-06-30T19:02:00.001-07:00

Nature's Bounty

2010-06-30T18:49:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year and we've signed on for a weekly "half share" with a local farm. Here are some shots of our first bushel of the summer which included lettuces, rhubarb, snap peas, squash/zucchini, kale, beets w/their greens and some radishes. Can't wait to see what else is in store for us. Life is good...

850

2010-06-13T07:25:00.000-07:00

That's the number I wore for the running of my 2nd 5K. It was not an easy venture but it was made bearable by the encouragement of family and friends and the company of some 5K "partners in crime" otherwise known as Megan, Ted and Chris P. I ended up clocking a 9.52 minute mile which was a personal improvement for me on my previous experience but I'd say there's definitely room for improvement on my part. The 5K took place down in Cranston, RI at the annual Gaspee Days event and it was followed by a pretty spectacular parade which the kids and adults really enjoyed. They even served up some Budweiser on tap after the run. How bad can that be? My only regret is that I didn't snap a photo of the runners BEFORE Meg left. We'll get her at the next one!

Blueberry Blitz

2010-06-13T07:24:00.001-07:00

School's Out

2010-06-13T07:21:00.001-07:00

With her Spring semester of Knotty Pine Nursery School tucked snuggly under her belt, Maeve celebrated her last day wither her classmates and friends last Thursday at a Carnival complete with game, snacks, prizes and a little face painting. She'll return there in the Fall for a full year and then it's off to Kindergarten. Where oh where does the time go?

Baking Bread

2010-06-13T07:13:00.001-07:00

What better way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon than to bake some homemade bread with your Dad? And that's just what Maeve did. Michael and I, however, got to reap the benefits without having to lift a finger. Oatmeal bread anyone?

Where My Kids At?

2010-05-19T17:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks to an old friend, I was tipped off to this hilarious video. Well, at least I think it's pretty funny...

Ah...NoHo

2010-04-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

Another fiercely desired pilgrimage to NoHo safely under our belts. We arrived at Auntie Jen's just before 11 AM on Saturday and had just about a perfect day I'd have to say. After a delicious lunch at the Mosaic Table, Chris took to the streets of downtown Northampton while Jen and I stole away with Maeve and MIchael to Look Park in Florence, MA. With the weather on our side we easily (although I don't know if Auntie Jen would agree with me) spent about 3 hours checking out playgrounds, animal exhibits and indulging in two train rides with the kids. Please note, it took some very gentle coaxing to get Maeve to try out the train, but I'd have to say it was a success. After our outing at the park it was back to town to pick up Chris who had selected a yummy loaf of semolina fennel bread from the Hungry Ghost to accompany our dinner. Then it was off to the uber cool River Valley Co-Op Market where we grabbed some beer/wine and the fixings for dinner: angel hair pasta tossed with roasted garlic, plum tomatoes and kale). The only thing left to do was pajamas and drop heads to pillows for a well-earned slumber. Here are some images and videos from our time at Look Park...

Magnificent Magnolia

2010-04-15T11:09:00.001-07:00

Magic Beans

2010-04-15T11:05:00.001-07:00

With the beautiful weather we've had recently, Chris and Maeve decided it would be a good time to plant the Magic Beans that Maeve received for her birthday from her cousin Audrey. Not sure what they'll yield, but we're perched and ready...

Happy Easter 2010! How 'Bout Those Grapes?

2010-04-15T11:02:00.000-07:00

I had every intention of taking some photos of the kiddos all dressed up in their Easter best but missed the boat completely. I did however, take this random video of Michael devouring some Easter Grapes. Hope everyone enjoyed their Easter holidays as much as the Mike-ster enjoyed these grapes...

A Boy...& His Vacuum (Obsession).

2010-04-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

It doesn't matter where we are, the minute Michael hears a vacuum, he goes running for it. If he sees a vacuum sitting idle, he's immediately preoccupied with examining it from top to bottom and locating the on/off switch. Chris and I decided to take some video (yes, it's a total set-up; so mean) of Michael getting ready to enjoy one of his favorite activities: reading, only to be rudely interrupted by the sound of our vacuum. Tee hee.

Hot Cheeks

2010-04-15T10:50:00.000-07:00

Couldn't resist this photo opportunity to document what we lovingly refer to in our family as "hot cheeks." You know. Those super round, super pink, super warm things that develop on either side of a sleeping baby's nose? Hot cheeks.

Huh?

2010-03-24T11:12:00.001-07:00

Maeve woke up this morning with a killer cough. She spent a good 5 minutes hacking, clearing and expectorating.

Me: "Wow Maeve. That's quite the cough you've got there."

Maeve: "I use it for stripping meat off bones."

Saints Preserve Us! Maeve is 4!

2010-03-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

So of course, our little family of 4 also had to acknowledge Maeve's 4th birthday which fell smack dab in the middle of the week. But that didn't stop us from enjoying the day to the fullest. Mother Nature served up a beauty for little Maeve with temperatures sitting comfortably in the 60's. Below are some photos of our lunch at the park, followed by our homemade pizza party and the modeling of some new pajamas. We cannot imagine the last 4 years without you Maeve. You are our treasure!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-24T10:58:00.000-07:00

If it weren't for my Mom, our Birthday/Saint Patrick's Day Party on the 13th would never have been photographed for posterity! Getting a shot of any of the "wee ones" posed somewhat of a challenge due to the fact that they couldn't sit still but hopefully this gives you a sense of the fun that was had despite the gloomy weather outside. Good excuse for a nice fire in the hearth is what we say!

Meet John Daker

2010-03-03T12:19:00.000-08:00

Dost Mine Eyes Deceive Me?

2010-02-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

Is that a counter top and sink I see?!

Perfect Love

2010-02-17T10:47:00.000-08:00

Although different tulip colors carry distinct meanings - yellow tulips symbolizing cheerful thoughts, white conveying forgiveness and purple representing royalty - a Turkish legend may be responsible for the red tulip's symbolism. The story goes that a prince named Farhad was love struck by a maiden named Shirin. When Farhad learned that Shirin had been killed, he was so overcome with grief that he killed himself - riding his horse over the edge of a cliff. It's said that a scarlet tulip sprang up from each droplet of his blood, giving the red tulip the meaning "perfect love."

When faced with the daunting decision as to what flower(s) I wanted to carry down the aisle on my wedding day, I was stumped. I've never felt strongly about one particular flower because of course, any flower is nice as far as I'm concerned. And so, after discovering that in the "flower culture" certain flowers are known to have symbolism and meaning, I quickly arrived at the decision to carry tulips. Although I don't think Chris chose them on purpose, the tulips that I discovered on my kitchen table Sunday morning meant more to me that any other flower could have.

However, how many women can boast that they not only received a bouquet of tulips but also some under-cabinet lighting for Valentine's Day?

Our plans that day were to head to Hanson for a turkey dinner which we were all pretty pumped about. Maeve was so pumped, she decided to accessorize the top of her head with some mouse ears and insisted that her Dad do the same. Getting out the door these days is pretty hectic as we strap the kids in and make certain we have all their diaper bags. As we settled in to our two vehicles to make the trip north, I noticed Chris jump out of the truck to grab something inside. What he came out with, was his headband which Maeve had presented to him earlier. He placed it on his head, strapped himself in and gave me the thumbs-up sign as he and Maeve backed out of the driveway in the pick-up truck. Michael and I followed behind and most of my trip was spent giggling every time I caught a glance of my husband and his headband. But the best part for me, and a reminder for me of why I love Chris so fiercely, was when he pulled into a gas station and very confidently began pumping gas - headband in place. I love you Chris for all that you do to make our lives better and for all that you are. Don't ever change a thing, not even your headband.

Slave to Love

2010-02-11T17:26:00.000-08:00

Life's pretty good when you're a 3-year-old who's been Valentine's Day party hopping all week. She's been so looking forward to this week and there was a period of time when we wondered if she'd make it to either party with the threat of the Nor'easter looming. But, the weather proved to be no match for Seekonk and Maeve enjoyed party #1 at Knotty Pine Nursery School this morning. Tomorrow it's off to Rocky Hill Day Care for party #2. Here are some shots of the little party-goer readying her love notes for the morning. She's been working hard at her writing skills. Put a little love in your heart people.

It Won't Be Long Now!

2010-02-03T11:08:00.000-08:00

The countertop is ordered, the lights are on their way and soon we'll be firing up the new dishwasher for her maiden voyage. We have turned the corner ladies and gentlemen and the end really is in sight...

Night Terrors

2010-02-03T10:55:00.000-08:00

I'd have to say Chris and I had one of the most unnerving and traumatic evenings that we've ever had as parents a couple of weeks ago. We found ourselves at the emergency room of Sturdy Memorial Hospital with poor little Maeve at 11 PM following a seizure-like episode that shook Chris and I to our cores. With her cries intensifying by the minute accompanied by facial distortion due to the retraction of her lower jaw and an inability to speak clearly, what we thought may have been a seizure has been more or less ruled as an episode of night terrors. I had never heard of a night terror before this experience and quickly learned of the large distinction between a terror versus a nightmare. There is plenty of research and literature available on the subject and most children grow out of them by about age 8 but I wouldn't wish this experience on any family and have my fingers crossed that our little Maeve doesn't have to endure another one. Although she has no recall of the event, it doesn't make the possibility of another night terror more bearable.

Another Bundle of Love

2010-02-03T10:21:00.001-08:00

The newest addition to the McNamara clan arrived on 12/4/09 and my greatest apologies to the little guy for not getting this information posted with more immediacy. Welcome Kayin Effie Reid Freeman born to Katie and Olase. Arriving by c-section, he weighed in at 8 lbs., 15 oz. at 8:03 in the morning at Memorial Hospital in Pawtucket. He is loved by all and is thriving in his new environment. Although we don't get to see him as often as we would like, we savor each moment we have with him and look forward to watching him grow.

Listening...we're working on it

2010-02-03T10:07:00.000-08:00

So we're now charging head first into the world of Michael as more of a toddler and less of a (dare I say it?) baby. His favorite activity is climbing and his forte? Defiance. For the time being, his belligerence is still amusing Chris and I as you'll see in these two clips. The amusement will surely give way to exasperation in the not too distant future.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T08:51:00.000-08:00

It IS a magical morning. So magical, that you may feel compelled to finish Santa and Rudolph's leftovers. Go figure.

It's That Time Again

2009-12-23T18:31:00.001-08:00

What can I say about this year's phone call to the North Pole? Maeve was basically terrified that Santa was going to address her with any sort of question and she pretty much refused to ask any questions of him on her own. She instead, preferred that I interpret for her. Michael seemed somewhat interested about who was ho-ho-ho-ing on the other end of the phone line and kept checking periodically on the conversation. Despite all of this, Santa did a wonderful job at fielding all of my very important questions and reassured us that he would NOT check on us while we were sleeping and that he really, REALLY would enjoy the eggnog we promised to leave him on Thursday night. Cheers Santa...and your little elf too!

Slowly but Surely

2009-12-09T08:54:00.000-08:00

For all of you who are wondering how the new kitchen is progressing (and also those of you who have had to endure my complaints for the last couple of months) here are some random but recent photos which document the evolution...

One of Chris' earliest crusades was the ripping out of the old oven vent and covering up the hole on the outside of the house. The following picture (the best one I could find) shows the vent to the left of the window and the picture after that shows a lack thereof...

Construction of the "cut out" connecting the living room with the new kitchen...

The new french door is in (which we hope will let in more natural light from the breezeway and give the room more character). It was one of our most favorite finds from a really neat place out in Springfield, MA called the ReStore (a tip we received from Jen) which sells salvaged and surplus building materials at super low prices. Final price? $50.00. Nice.

Maeve helps Chris test drive construction on one of the new Ikea cabinets...

Has anyone seen my son?

The walls are dressed and the room begins to look more like a room instead of the absence of a room...

A Snap Shot

2009-11-20T17:57:00.003-08:00

Sometimes sneaking up on your kids reaps some sweet rewards (and sweet memories)...

The Dancer in All of Us

2009-11-20T17:41:00.000-08:00

So Maeve wrapped up her first experience in a formal dance class through the YMCA. I'm still having some pangs of guilt for not having signed her up for the next session as soon as the previous session ended but I figured we'd take a short break and see if she's still receptive to it after holidays. My guess is, she will be. You'll see in the following clips she spent most of her time by the side of her dance class pal (in the royal blue leotard). Although you can't hear any music because I'm filming from behind a window, you get the general sense that she's having a pretty bangin' time in there. Dance your buns off Maeve.

Maeve's Musing, H1N1 Style

2009-11-18T18:34:00.000-08:00

Today I took the kiddos to the pediatrician's office for their somewhat controversial H1N1 vaccination. Because Maeve is 3 1/2, she is eligible for the nasal mist (lucky her) versus the good old injection. Unlike most trips to the doctor's office for vaccinations, I chose not to discuss today's visit with Maeve ahead of time. In fact, I didn't even tell her where we were going when we got in the car. As we pulled into the parking lot of Dr. Douglas' office, Maeve quickly inquired as to why we were there. I explained that we were there so that Michael could get a "flu" shot and perhaps she might get a special spray on her nose while we were hanging out. I immediately sensed skeptical silence emanating from the back seat, but we proceeded inside anyway. To summarize for you: Maeve endured the "misting" with flying colors and the nurse and I informed her that she did such a "big girl" job, we'd come back in a month for another round (yippee). Michael, staying true to himself based on previous inoculations, screamed bloody murder for about 30 seconds and gave anyone who looked his way, the nastiest glare I've ever seen. As we traipsed back to the car, I asked Maeve what did she think was better, the shot or the spray? She answered, "Mom, I think staying home is better."

Fasten Your Seat Belts...

2009-11-08T06:30:00.000-08:00

The kitchen remodel has begun. We're 36 hours into it as I write this post and already, I want out! Trying to navigate our way around this already small house is posing a huge challenge for us, especially our 1-year-old. I can only hope that things pick up speed soon. Here are a few last shots of the semi-deconstructed "old" kitchen...

Our fabulous wrecking crew of Doug, Ted and Chris P.

The aftermath...

Wish us luck...

Cow-Belle...and the rare, Geisha-Cat

2009-11-04T06:54:00.000-08:00

This year Maeve stretched the limits of creativity a bit and sported not one, but two different costumes for the 2009 Halloween "season." Upon accepting an invitation to her friend, Patrick's Halloween party, I asked Maeve what she would like to wear for a costume. Initially, she chose last year's Geisha costume, which was a relief for me because I knew I wouldn't have to spend any money. On the day of the party however, with a 1/2 hour to go before departure, she decided that she'd also like to be a cat. I deftly applied my best cat rendering to her face and out the door we flew!

Fast forward to the 48-hour countdown to Halloween. There I am with the kids at BJ's of all places convincing myself that not only do we need one more bag of candy, but we also need the Belle (of Disney's "Beauty & The Beast") costume that is strategically hanging right in my sight line upon entering the store. Of course, Maeve was more than thrilled as a result of one of my weaker moments and instantly commanded me to call her Belle instead of Maeve. The smile that stretched across her face, of course, convinced (tricked) me that my clutch decision was the right decision. Michael on the other hand, was a more challenging subject to costume. First we tried a monkey, then we tried Batman, followed by a lion. We finally decided upon a cow costume probably because it was more like a cow outfit with a tail coming off his behind (that he couldn't see) and ears protruding from his hood. He kept it on most of the night and enjoyed the sights and sounds and oddly balmy weather of the evening. Here are a few shots from the spooky event...

Happy 1st Birthday Michael!

2009-10-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

Somewhere amidst the illness that plagued our family for a little over a week, my little boy turned 1-year-old. Although Maeve's first few years went by rather quickly for us, Michael's first year was gone in a flash. He has developed so much, even in the last few weeks or so and I wish I could cast some sort of a spell on him to slow down his progress - just for a little while. I'm almost certain that when he takes his first few steps, they'll be more like gallops.

Unfortunately no one was feeling 100% when it came time to enjoy something sweet after dinner but this video was taken at 6 AM on his birthday and as you will observe, even at the crack of dawn, he seems quite pleased with himself.

I have compiled below a list of some of Michael's "firsts" and also some of the things that make him most happy in the life he has fervently lived thus far..

Dad: Da

Mom: Mah, mah, mah, mah...you get the idea
Maeve: Mae

Uh Oh: Ah-o
Banana: Na-na-na

_________________________________________
Next we have a couple of samplings of some of his responses to certain questions or cues:

What does the dog/bird/fish/kitty/elepant/horse/sheep/or just about any other animal roaming the planet say? uh-uh
_______________________________________
Favorite foods (in no particular order):

Goldfish crackers, tofu nuggets, shredded wheat cereal, pancakes, blueberries, dried cherries, prunes, banana, raisins, PB&J sandwiches, cheerios, yogurt, meatballs, avocado, cheese, peas, carrots (cooked of course), broccoli (well-done), applesauce, pears
_______________________________________
These are a few of his favorite things (again, in no special order):

Binky
Blanket

Books

Ball

Remote controls (it really IS a guy thing)

Phones

_______________________________________
Favorite activities:

Rocking back and forth from the moment you place him in his high chair until the moment he is released from his high chair

Reading books

Being outside

Riding on his Dad's shoulders

Ripping his Mom's glasses off her face

Looking out the window

Swings

Going for rides in his red plastic sports car
Beating the you-know-what out of Chris' guitar while he's playing it (I like to call it "percussion")

Climbing stairs
Opening his Mom's night stand drawers (and then shutting his meaty fingers in them)
Throwing food on the floor

Racing to the bathroom to begin unraveling the toilet paper roll before anyone else can get in there

Yanking his birdies out of their toy birdhouse and then stuffing them back inside

Climbing...anything

_______________________________________

Sign language:

No (it figures...)

Stop

_______________________________________

Michael, we love you like the dickens and are so proud of who you've become in such a short period of time. You amaze us every day and command our love like no other. Happy Birthday little one. Love, Mom, Dad and Maeve

Ode to the Lumberjack

2009-10-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

I'm a Lumberjack and I'm okay.

I sleep all night. I work all day.

So Michael is a lumberjack. I'm still not sure what Maeve's role is...

"M" is for Michael, "M" is for Mischievous

2009-10-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

Upon entering the kids' room the other day, this is what I discovered. Note to self: must never leave my son's side...ever.

Belly Aches, Sniffles and Lullabies

2009-10-03T18:10:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday night/Thursday morning, we weathered one of the toughest "storms" so far this season. He was on day three of a pretty mean head cold so we gave Michael a little bedtime "tasting" of Motrin and tucked him in for the night. We knew we'd hear from him at least a few times - he typically needs an adjustment or two if he has rolled over and inadvertently spit out his binky. But as it turns out, it wasn't Michael who gave us a shout out.

Chris heard it first - around 2:30 AM. What we thought was initially just a cough, turned out to be coughing in the middle of throwing up. Poor Maeve was sitting up in her bed staring at the floor and the mess she had made, crying for someone's help. Chris rushed her into the bathroom and rubbed her back as he re-introduced her to the potty from a new perspective.

In all, Maeve must have visited the bathroom 10-12 times that night/morning with Chris and I taking turns on each shift. Of course, 2 or 3 of those visits were "false alarms" and during one of them, I had the pleasure of sitting with her as she bent over the potty, utterly exhausted from the evening's events. Once she realized nothing was happening, she turned to me and said, "Mom? I'll take care of this tomorrow."

It was painful to watch our little one endure her illness and it was difficult to try to explain to her what was happening in a way in which she would understand. She looked up at me with tears rolling down her face and said "Mom, I don't want to do this anymore." How do you explain to a 3 year old, that what her body was doing was actually a good thing? Anyway, I'd say things were looking up for her at about 6:00 PM Thursday evening.

Thursday night, we were all in bed by 9:30 PM. We were physically exhausted from the previous day's events and had our fingers crossed that everyone got a good night's sleep - especially Maeve. Some time in the middle of the night, our little boy began whimpering. Probably a result of not being able to breathe out of his plugged up nostrils, but Chris and I will never know. Because before either one of us could muster the energy to get out of bed to answer his call, we heard Maeve very softly singing from her bed, the one song that can instantly sooth Michael no matter what has upset him: Michael Row the Boat Ashore. In the dark of night, she sang to her brother, from beginning to end and right on pitch. And that was the last we heard from either one of them until day break.

Hallelujah.