THE CORRIVEAU FAMILY

Jamie's Wedding

2009-08-18T10:05:00.002-04:00

Jeff's sister, Jamie, got married on Saturday. The wedding went smoothly and was beautiful albeit, very, very hot!! We welcome Matt to the family and wish him, Jamie and her daughter, Renee every happiness. By the way, the Ring Bearer might just have been the cutest Ring Bearer ever...

2009-08-18T10:03:00.000-04:00

Happy 22nd!

2009-08-09T09:46:00.002-04:00

HAPPY 22nd BIRTHDAY HEATHY!!!!!!!!

You are the best sister any girl could ever ask for and the boys are so lucky to have you as an Aunt. Thank you for all that you do for us. I'm sad that we won't see you today...the first birthday that I haven't shared with you:( But, we'll be thinking of you and can't wait to see you soon. Have a great day...be proud you're living your dream!

Love,

The 4-iveaus

Luke's 1st Birthday

2009-07-24T16:15:00.005-04:00

We celebrated Luke's 1st Birthday in 2 parts...his actual birthday was July 8th but we didn't have his big family party until the 12th.

PART 1:

Jeff, Matthew, Aunt Heather and I helped Luke celebrate his actual bday with a special bunny cake (a Johnson tradition) that Matthew helped me decorate. We then opened presents...Luke got lots of cute outfits from Aunt Heather and a dump truck from Matthew (he decided about a month ago that he really wanted to give Luke a Tonka dumptruck just like his...I thought that was sweet).

Matthew's masterpiece (all his idea, I just did *most* of the gel work...he told me where and what!)

*Do not try this at home* This was a staged pic! I do NOT let Matthew push him around like this!!! Hahaha.

PART 2:

We had Luke's family party in at the cottage. Thank you to all that made the trip over. We even managed to have nice weather (something nearly impossible this summer). Luke got some really nice gifts and we are so grateful to have such wonderful families.

A little more my style:)

Yes, Luke is in fact, holding a toothbrush. Cake followed some outside time playing on the beach, in which my darling husband let Luke get completely soaked and covered in sand (keep in mind he WAS wearing an outfit that matched the decor but had to be changed...I know, I know not a big deal). So, I had to wash him up in the bathroom where he grabbed his toothbrush and under NO circumstances was he going to let me take it away!!

Yup, he still has the toothbrush...

Still holding it.....

Not sure when he let go of it but as you can see, he hung onto it for awhile...

Despite being devastated that my baby is 1, we had a great time celebrating Luke's birthday and are so, so lucky to have such a happy, healthy boy. The finale? Nana's trip down this weekend...she missed the party but we're excited to see her on Sunday:)

Unbelievable!!!!!

2009-07-08T07:01:00.000-04:00

It is absolutely unbelievable to me that this picture was taken a year ago today!! A YEAR AGO!!! Yes folks, that's right...today is Luke's 1st Birthday!!

July 8, 2008

I continue to try to wrap my mind around my baby turning one and I just cannot for the life of me believe how quickly this year has passed by. I have very mixed emotions about this birthday...so different from when Matthew turned 1! Then, I felt excited...this time, while I'm happy to be celebrating a year of having Luke in our lives and the joy and love he has brought us, I'm reminded of how fast time is passing by and that makes me really sad.

My sweet baby boy

So, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my little buddy Luke. We love you so much and look forward to another year of watching you grow.

Our little 1 year old!:(

Thomas the Train and July 4th

2009-07-06T14:23:00.004-04:00

Last weekend we went down to Edaville USA to ride on Thomas the Train. I knew Matthew would really enjoy it but wasn't expecting Luke to react one way or another...boy were we surprised!!! He LOVED it!! I think that we (mostly I) forget that he is not a baby, baby anymore:(

We had a great 4th...did a BBQ here with some friends and then went over to catch some fireworks. Matthew had a blast running around with his buddies and really enjoyed the fireworks. Luke on the other hand, was very frightened of them at first but after a bit, did a complete 180 and decided that they were great! He was clapping and waving and having a blast!!:)

A tribute to my Mom on what would have been her 63rd Bday...

2009-06-29T19:55:00.001-04:00

2009-06-29T15:49:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday!

2009-06-20T06:53:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to the Best Big Brother and Uncle in the world!!

I couldn't have asked for a better brother and my boys are so lucky to have you in their lives. Thanks for loving them as if they were your own and being my rock through the years in good times and especially in bad times. We love you so much;)

Elmira Graduation

2009-06-02T11:55:00.003-04:00

See below for a slide show of Heather's college graduation. The weather was awesome and we had a great time. Spent time on Saturday walking around campus, swimming in the pool at the hotel and then we all went out to dinner to celebrate Heather's accomplishments. The graduation on Sunday went well and we survived our almost 15 hour round trip car ride with the boys!

Heather-great job, we love you!!!!!!!

2009-06-02T11:54:00.001-04:00

Really??

2009-05-29T06:43:00.003-04:00

(Yes Heather, I am stealing your favorite line )

I can't believe that later today we will be on our way to my BABY SISTER's college graduation!!! It is crazy to think how fast time flies...it seemed like just yesterday she was born and just hours ago her and I were on looking at colleges together! REALLY??

Heather, I hope you know how proud of you I am. You are a wonderful person, sister and aunt. Jeff, Matthew, Luke and I wish all the success and happiness in the world as you graduate and start the next phase of your education. We can't wait to see you and share this occasion with you.

I also hope you know how proud of you Mom, Nanny Johnson and Nanny and Grandpa Couser would be. They are there with you in spirit and watching from above.

Hmmm...

2009-05-27T20:32:00.005-04:00

WHAT DO

this baby

AND

this guy

HAVE IN COMMON???

Memorial Day '09

2009-05-26T06:38:00.005-04:00

We had a fantastic yet busy Memorial Day. The weekend started off with Jeff working and the Boys and I going to a good friend's BBQ...Matthew had a great time running around with his buddies and I had a good time socializing with mine:)

By the time we got there Jeff already had the window in and the trim put back up on the inside. The weather was a bit cool but we were still able to grill some steak tips and walk down to the "puddles"...Matthew favorite place to throw rocks.

Matthew loves pushing his little brother in the stroller

The weather on Sunday started off ok but lunchtime brought a bit of rain. Luckily, it cleared up in the afternoon. I kept Matthew busy by bringing him to the playground and candy store while Jeff continued to work on replacing the bathroom window. He was able to help Daddy for a bit though. After nap the kids played outside, ate an early dinner and then, as promised, we headed down to the arcade and got ice cream (now possible as Matthew is old enough for Lactaid and it seems to work). After the boys went to bed, Jeff and I celebrated my birthday (a bit early)with a lobsters and wine:)

Daddy's big helper

Again, the pacifier is needed to prevent Luke from eating sand!

Matthew helping me give a VERY sandy Luke a bath

Monday was spent playing outside, cleaning and finishing up some little projects. The weather was AWESOME and it was tough to leave!!!

BRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!

So, the 2 big projects we've been working on this Spring at the cottage were replacing the bathroom window and redoing the walkway to the sand. Here are the final products;

Happy Memorial Day everyone...thanks to those who have served our country and to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for it.

Already??

2009-05-21T14:36:00.008-04:00

Matthew is officially done with his first year of preschool. I can't believe how quickly the year went.

Just to refresh your memory here is a visual of the first day....

And today... The school ended the year with a super cute program in which the kids sang songs and then each one of them got either a certificate or a "diploma" depending on whether or not they were graduating or returning. I was secretly happy that my baby was only getting a certificate:) They also each got a flower and a really cool apron to paint or cook in.

Luke was very proud of his big brother!!!

And speaking of graduations...a big shout out to my step sister Ashley! She graduated from Quinnipiac College on Sunday...GREAT JOB!!!!:):)

'Tis the Season...

2009-05-03T16:45:00.004-04:00

So get ready...the cottage is open again so we all know what that means...every post will contain pictures of us in Maine...hahaha. At least until June:( Jeff went over early on Saturday to get a head start on the work that needs to be done is the downstairs bathroom. The boys and I met him there around lunchtime and to our (very pleasant) surprise it was REALLY nice out on the beach. Matthew was able to dig and play in the sand. He even braved the ocean and went in up to his knees!

Today wasn't quite as nice but still decent enough to be outside and both boys experienced something for the first time...

Matthew and Fishing: The four of us went over to the harbor first thing this morning to take Matthew fishing for the first time. As much as we tried to prepare him, he was disappointed that he didn't catch anything. Maybe it was the location? Maybe the bait? But, I suspect he may have had better luck with a different fishing buddy!!:) Jeff...not too knowledgeable in that department...but since fishing is something he would really like to do with the boys, I think we'll see him improve. He did catch something though...seaweed!!!!! Hahahahahahaha!!!:)

Luke and Playing in the Sand: Since Luke was a newborn last summer and then napped through the nice weather yesterday, today was actually his first time being down in the sand and playing. He had so much fun and was not at all deterred by the feel of sand nor being covered in it. We also quickly learned that he didn't mind the taste of it either!!! But, we were able to keep him from eating it by letting him have the pacifier. His favorite was smashing the castles that Jeff made for him.

Aside from spending the weekend at the cottage and having fun with the boys, I also took a side trip to Boston with my sister. Heather drove 14 hours home and back to go to Spring Awakening with me. I really enjoyed the show (btw, it was fantastic) but I enjoyed spending alone time with my baby sister even more!!:)

Happy Birthday Dad!!!

2009-04-28T11:07:00.004-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD/GRAMPA!!!!

Dad,

We've had our moments, that's for sure. Of course, most of that is because we're too much alike! Also, we were dealt some pretty rough circumstances and I truly believe we both did the best we could at the time. I am so grateful for the relationship we have now. It's nice that you are my Dad and my friend. Thanks for being such a wonderful Grandfather and for thinking that my kids walk on water! Please know how much we all love you!

Love,

Seaweed

Matthew's 4th Birthday

2009-04-20T09:31:00.002-04:00

So after what seemed like a month long celebration, Matthew's birthday is officially over!! It started out with a friend party at Sproutabout. We did this 2 weeks ago because his actual birthday fell between Easter and April Vacation. For his actual birthday, I brought dirt cupcakes into his school and then we went out to lunch...his restaurant of choice? McDonalds! Yuck! But since it was his day, we went. For dinner he chose to have pizza, more cupcakes and got to open his presents from Mom, Dad, Luke and Aunt Heather. Yesterday we finished with a family party here at the house.

Thank you to everyone who came to one his parties. He got some great stuff and had a wonderful time at both. Matthew is lucky to have such wonderful friends and family.

See below for a slide show of all his birthday parties and activities:)

2009-04-20T09:30:00.001-04:00

Happy 4th Birthday

2009-04-14T02:52:00.002-04:00

HAPPY 4th BIRTHDAY MATTHEW!!!

We love you SO much:)

Easter and more...

2009-04-13T14:32:00.006-04:00

We had a great Easter...got up and did Easter Baskets with the boys and then headed to Lebanon to see my family.

Matthew's new favorite thing to do is to put all of his stuffed animals into Luke's crib with Luke. He then climbs in himself...I think the two of them could play in there for hours. It's sweet that they are beginning to play together a little bit.

This morning we went to the Kaleidoscope Children's Museum where Matthew and his buddies got to pretend that they were Barbers, Doctors and Mechanics. I'm thinking that I might not hire any of them though!! Hahaha:) What a great time!!

Pictures from Florida...FINALLY!!!

2009-04-08T11:27:00.001-04:00

I finally got a chance to put together a slide show from Florida...seems like things have just been absolutely nuts around here!!! So, see below and enjoy!!!:)

2009-04-08T11:24:00.001-04:00

SO excited!!!

2009-03-06T17:57:00.003-05:00

The Corriveau 4 at Disney in Feb 2008

Tomorrow we leave for our annual Orlando trip and I cannot wait!! I am so excited to do Disney again with Matthew and to see his reaction to it now that he is a little older. Last year he liked Seaworld better and I wonder if it will be different this year. Mostly, I am so excited just to get away to some warmer weather and relaxation. But, above all else, I am so excited to not be lugging Luke INSIDE my belly this year but instead be pushing him in the stroller!!!:)

It Won't Be Like This For Long

2009-02-27T16:19:00.005-05:00

By Darius Rucker

The song I have running I know will annoy some people. I've hesitated to add songs to the blog because I think sometimes it is hard to read while music is playing. But, I HAD to add this song, at least for now.

There isn't another song out there that could come closer to summing up my life right now than this one (of course you'll need to change all the she/her to he/him). It talks about how fast kids grow up and lately it seems mine are growing faster and faster each day. I try to take the time to enjoy the phases they are in...good or bad. I remind myself on a daily basis not to wish the boys' childhood away...even after a long night of little sleep and lots of crying with a teething Luke, I remind myself to sit in the moment and enjoy being his everything. We all know that won't last.

The lines in this song that speak the loudest to me, though, are the ones about dropping off his daughter at preschool and having her cry. We all know that Matthew (still) has good drop offs and bad ones and like the song says..."some day you'll drop her off and she won't even know you're gone"....as much as it breaks my heart to hear his pitiful cries, I know this will be true of Matthew sooner than later as well and that hurts even more.

So, sorry to be all sappy and sentimental but I really wanted to share this song with my Mommy Friends and everyone else out there that I know will be able to relate...

2009-02-24T14:44:00.005-05:00

Not too much going on these days...figured I'd sum it up in pictures....

Out enjoying the mild weather...we cannot wait until Spring!!!!Jeff got Mario Kart for the Wii for his bday...Matthew LOVES it...Mommy not so much but it does entertain him so I can cook dinner!Luke is finally sitting up well enough to go in the big boy tub with Matthew. It is so much easier to put them both in together but Matthew doesn't love Luke splashing (they are SO different) so we are still using the baby tub here and there:)I couldn't stop laughing when I first uploaded this picture! What's with this expression???!!!

Matthew bowling...as you can probably tell the ball isn't moving overly fast but he did pretty well and we had a blast!

Luke and his aunt...we LOVED having Heathy home for a week and need her to come back ASAP!!!

Next up? FLORIDA!!! 11 days and counting...stay tuned!!!!

Great Weekend!

2009-02-03T07:02:00.003-05:00

We went up to Maine this weekend, no reason other than to get away. It is the half way point between Christmas and our trip to Florida so we figured it would give us something to look forward to...not to mention the place we stayed in had a pool and being away would force us to go out to eat! Jeff and I were anxious to take Luke swimming for the first time. He LOVES, LOVES, LOVES the water. As suspected, our little fish could have stayed in the pool all day. His brother? Not so much...he is the extreme opposite. But, he was happy to play on the steps of the pool and stack all the noodles up. He has made a little progress since last summer though. We are thankful we are able to do this kind of stuff with the boys and I absolutely cannot wait for FL, more swimming and NO SNOW!

Luke wearing Daddy's hat

Matthew not in the water as usual but working hard to stack the noodles up

Luke's first time swimming...looks a little doubtful here but believe me, he was in heaven!

A couple of goofballs ready for bed

This next picture was taken yesterday. I was getting ready to make dinner which is also Matthew's tv time of the day, when he asked me if I thought Luke would like to watch something with him. So sweet! As I was cooking I could hear Matthew telling Luke about the show. I can only hope that these guys will continue to be buddies:) The extra bonus was that even though Luke lasted less than 10 minutes...it was 10 less minutes of cooking while entertaining/holding I had to do:)

Happy Birthday!

2009-01-26T07:12:00.006-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JEFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Boys and I love you and think you're the best. Thanks for being more than we could have ever asked for or imagined having. We hope you have an awesome day...it's not every birthday you get to eat off of Optimus Prime plates picked out especially for Daddy by his little Transformers fan.

6 Months!!

2009-01-08T09:15:00.006-05:00

Luke is officially 6 months old today. I can't believe how fast time has gone by! Sometimes it feels like we just had him yesterday and sometimes it feels that he has been here forever. I was truly amazed by how Luke just fit right into our family from his very first breath on. Luke is the best!! I love watching him interact with his brother and I'm not sure there is a happier baby out there. His laughter is the best sound in the world and the I'm enjoying watching him grow and change. Luke has brought a completeness to my life and I thank God for him every moment of everyday.

July 8, 2008

January 8, 2009

We didn't think Luke's half birthday would be complete without a whole mess of shots so lucky for him, he also got to go to the doctor for his check-up this afternoon! Haha. Not a fan of the shots but was given a clean bill of health and for those of you wondering how he measures up, here are the stats...he weighs in at 16 lbs 15 ozs (29th percentile) and is 27.5" (76th percentile). He is sitting up on his own and loving putting anything he can get his hands on into his mouth and is eating everything but peas and beans. No teeth yet but judging by the bucket loads of drool, they're coming!

Here's to another healthy and happy 6 months!!!:)

Tub Time!!

2009-01-01T15:37:00.001-05:00

All I Want For Christmas....

2008-12-22T22:20:00.003-05:00

is an "Animal Big Rig"

This truck and picture of it are now legendary in the Corriveau household. It all started a few months ago when Matthew saw this toy in a catalog. Since then this picture has spent time hanging on our fridge, spending the night on Matthew's nightstand and being shown to anyone and everyone who sets foot in this house. Matthew wants this truck like crazy!!! He is totally obsessed with it and talks about it several times a day. Since he has SO MANY trucks I told him to ask Santa for it, Mommy would NOT be buying more trucks. Not only did he brave the big, bad Santa at the mall to tell him to bring this, he has now written him 2 letters and done (or not done) pretty much everything I ask him to do (boy, I'll miss that!). Everyday I get questions like; "do you think Santa is putting my animal big rig in his sleigh" or "do you think my animal big rig is in Santa's bag" or "do you think Santa is done making my animal big rig"...the new one today was "do you think if Santa has an extra animal big rig, he'll leave it for Daddy"...not sure Daddy has been good enough for a toy like that!!;)

Cute, right? I think so BUT here is the big problemo....this is the ONLY thing he wants. He keeps saying he only needs 1 present....boy, this could have been a really cheap Christmas!! My fear is if we give it to him first, he will not want to open anything else. If we save it for last, I worry that he will be disappointed with every other present he opens.

If you have any suggestions, please feel free to comment...

On the bright side, I cannot wait to see the look on his face when he opens this!!!!!

1 Day, 2 VERY Different Occasions...

2008-12-20T09:47:00.004-05:00

December 20th means 2 very different things for my family.

First, the good...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT JENN!!!

We hope you have a great day and can't wait to see you on Wednesday:) Thanks for being such an awesome Sister-In-Law, Aunt and Friend. Thanks for giving us a reason to like Ryan and enjoy having him around...hahahaha!! We love you, you're the best:)

Second, the not so good,

On December 20, 1990 my Mom lost her battle with breast cancer. Although there still isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of her, she is especially on my mind today. I've lived over half my life without her but in the time that she was here she most definitely shaped the person I am and the mother I am. She was a fantastic Mom and I am so grateful for the 14 years I had with her.

This has always been one of my favorite pictures. For those of you who have only know m since college, note the hair:)

It is strange that my brother's wife was born on the same date my mother died...out of all the days of the year...this one??!! I can't help but wonder if my mother sent us the gift of having something to be happy about and smile for on a day that is so sad for us. Celebrating Jenn's bday certainly makes this day easier to deal with:)

This is the Polar Express!!

2008-12-07T11:37:00.006-05:00

Hahaha...I love that line, makes me think of Tom Hanks!!

We went down to Newpburyport yesterday to ride the Polar Express with the boys, Jeff's parents, sister and our niece. We had a great time! Matthew really enjoyed the ride and hearing the story. I think his favorite part though was getting to wear his pajamas out of the house! Enjoy the pics...

Waiting for his turn to give Santa his letter

Santa!

2008-12-05T16:32:00.002-05:00

I took the boys to see Santa today while we were at the mall. I wasn't sure how this would go over with Matthew. When we were in FL back in February he loved the characters. More recently though, he hasn't liked them. He is very into Santa this year, way more than in years past, and wanted to meet him so I figured we'd give it a try. Plus, he REALLY wants this one truck that I keep telling him he has to ask Santa for because Mom thinks we have enough trucks and isn't going to buy anymore.

First we circled Santa to make sure that Matthew did, in fact, WANT to meet him. Yes, he did so we got in line. When it was our turn Matthew marched right up to him and said, in no uncertain terms, "I want a big rig with animals!!" Then, he turned and started to walk off! Too funny...guess he didn't get the memo about the photo op!! :) Mom would have liked to hear something more along the lines of "please may I have a big rig with animals" but since she has an in with Santa, things will probably still work out in Matthew's favor.

Luke, our little laid back munchkin...smiled the whole time...just happy to be along for the ride!

Sooo...here are the boys with Santa for the first time. Enjoy our ridiculously expensive photo!

Christmas Survey

2008-12-03T20:56:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the Christmas Edition of Getting To Know Your Family and Friends!

You know the drill. Get to bloggin'.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping...not a fan of the bags!
2. Real tree or Artificial? REAL!! I loathe artificial trees.
3. When do you put up the tree? When I can get everyone together...we enjoy decorating with Ryan, Jenn and Heather.
4. When do you take the tree down? New Year's Day.
5. Do you like eggnog? Love it! Jeff surprised us with soy egg nog this year so Matty can finally sample it and I can have some and not worry about Luke's tummy and the best part is, it taste exactly the same.
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Cabbage Patch Kid Preemie.
7. Hardest person to buy for? Jeff's grandparents.
8.Easiest person to buy for? my sister, Jenn, Jeff, & Matthew.
9. Do you have a nativity scene? yes, need something to reflect what Christmas is actually about. 10. Mail or email Christmas cards? mail, emailed Christmas cards are the worst!
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? I got lamps when I was 10...seriously!! Sorry up there Nanny Couser...I would enjoy that now but not so much at 10!
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? The Christmas Story, although Christmas Vacation is a close 2nd.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I try to get some things before Tgiving but usually right after...I love Cyber Monday!!:)
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Ummm, yeah...but I plead the 5th as to what!. 15.Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Judy's Jenny cookies and Sara's thin mint ritz. Yum:)
16. Lights on the tree? white
17. Favorite Christmas song? Fun=Rudolph, Jingle Bell Rock Serious=Hark! The Herald, Little Drummer Boy.
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? stay home...our new rule since having kids
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Absolutely...Jeff finds it a bit scary!
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? angel but still looking for the perfect one.
21. Presents on Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Morning.
22.Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Crowds
23. Favorite Ornament theme or color? No theme or I guess the theme is ornaments that we collected as we grew up, nothing fancy, just ones that bring back memories.
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Prime Rib...my Mom always did meat fondue on Christmas Eve...that was the best and I miss it.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? I really just want to see Matthew's face when he opens the animal big rig he wants wee wee, wee wee, bab-lee:) Outside of that...a front loader...how old and married am I?? Yikes. I'm not holding my breath though!!

Thanks Lorraine:)
Who's Up? Heather? Jenn? Angela?

Turkey Day...or should I say weekend??

2008-12-01T21:23:00.004-05:00

We had a great Thanksgiving! We left Thursday morning and headed to Laconia for the day. Had a nice meal and visit with Jeff's family. We left that evening and drove up to my brother's house in Lebanon to celebrate Thanksgiving on Friday and spent the rest of the weekend visiting with my family and helping my brother do some work on his house. Matthew had been asking to see where Uncle Ryan and Aunt Jenn work...so we suckered Ryan into giving Matthew a tour of the hospital and we were able to meet Jenn for lunch while we were there. We really enjoyed having Aunt Heathy home for a whole week and can't wait to have her home for Christmas!!! The Corriveaus are very thankful for their awesome family and having everyone close by again:)

Matthew and Luke in their matching shirts (picked out by Matthew)

Luke ready for the feast at the Johnsons (notice his bib)!

The real highlight of the weekend for BOTH boys was terrorizing Sadie...poor dog! She's such a good sport though and her Mom and Dad don't mind since it tires her out!!!

The Gang

Hero Worship

2008-11-22T14:32:00.002-05:00

I think it is safe to say that Luke is suffering from a case of Hero Worship. He is ALWAYS watching his big brother no matter what else is going on. I love it!

The Best Thing About The Rain Is...

2008-11-15T14:02:00.005-05:00

Getting to see Matthew in this get-up!!! Too funny:) Makes today's weather a little more tolerable!!!

It wouldn't be right to live in New England and not post some pictures of us raking leaves...and by us, I mean mostly Jeff...maybe Matthew but certainly not me

When it comes to raking, I agree with Luke!!

Ten Years Ago I....

2008-11-14T09:59:00.003-05:00

1.) Was working for Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
2.) Was living in Portsmouth with Nicci.
3.) Was not driving a gas guzzler.
4.) Only drank beer.
5.) Got to sleep in past 7am.

5 THINGS ON TODAY'S TO-DO LIST
1.) Go to Recycling Center
2.) Make an apt to get my hair cut
3.) Clean the bathrooms
4.) Pay bills
5.) Clean out Luke's 0-3 month clothes

5 THINGS I WOULD DO IF I WERE A MILLIONAIRE
1.) Buy a new car.
2.) Put in a pool.
3.) Help my Dad retire.
4.) Give $ to Ry and Heath to pay down education loans
5.) Travel more.

5 PLACES I HAVE LIVED
1.) Lebanon, NH
2.) Durham, NH
3.) Gonic, NH
4.) Belmont, NH
5.) Wells, ME

5 JOBS I'VE HAD
1.) Waitress at Weathervane
2.) Management Trainee for ERAC
3.) Salesperson for NECs
4.) Claims Processor
5.) Resolution Analyst

Who's next...Jenn? Heather?

I'm back!!

2008-11-12T21:01:00.005-05:00

So I've been having some serious issues with my computer...it hasn't let me log into my Blog account for almost a month now. I think I may have resolved this, we'll see!! If there are no posts again for awhile, you'll know it's not REALLY fixed!!!

I think the only big thing that's happened is since my last post was Halloween. Here are some pics starting with Matthew's school party. Matthew desperately wanted to be a tow truck driver despite my attempts to sway him in a different direction! Luke wasn't much into Halloween...maybe next year:)

Luke is growing fast! He had his 4 month check-up on Monday...he weighs in at 16.1 pounds (60th percentile) and measures 26 inches (75th percentile). Luke was a trooper when it came time for his shots. I found it interesting that even the nurse could see how nervous Matthew was though...a good sign, I'd say, that he was so concerned for his little brother!

It's getting easier and easier to make Luke laugh and is the best sound in the world! He's a great baby and loves his big brother so much. They make so many toys to encourage babies to enjoy tummy time...with Luke all we have to do is point him toward Matthew, that's all he needs to be persuaded to keep his head up! So hopefully all computer issues are resolved and the blog will be updated again soon!

Some Things...

2008-10-09T14:43:00.006-04:00

FINALLY resolved my USB issues!! Here are some of the pictures that have been living in my camera...

Some things Matthew has been doing;

Apple Picking with the Playgroup

What do you think they're talking about??

Apple Picking with Matthew's School;

Doing the Coppel House Corn Maze with Matthew's School;

Some things Luke has been doing...

He's LOVING the bath...seems to be our water baby (we all know Matthew's not!).

Made a successful transition to the crib.

Holding his head up well enough to face out in the front pack!

Some More Apple Picking at Applecrest Pics...

These next 3 are the epitome of "Like Father, Like Son"...

Most likely the last Wells picture from this year:(

Apple Picking

2008-10-06T10:18:00.003-04:00

I've been a bad blogger lately...part of the problem is that the usb cord to my camera is broken so I can't download any pictures. I ordered a new one but can't seem to get it to work either:( So no pictures for a bit until I can get things figured out. Too bad because I have some great shots living in my camera of Matthew apple picking with his school and playgroup as well as some of Luke sleeping in his crib (we finally gave up the search for the bolts and just bought some new ones). Oh well...guess it's time to head to the photo kiosk and do things the "old fashion" way:)

We went apple picking this weekend with my brother Ryan and his wife Jenn. We had a great time...the highlight for Matthew was the tractor ride and donut treat. The highlight for Luke was, hmmm, well...maybe the gigantic pumpkins? Hard to say since he slept through everything else (as usual)! Here are some pictures courtesy of Jenn...

The highlight for me was when Matthew put an apple in front of each eye and yelled "apple eyes"!!! Too funny:)

Already?

2008-09-17T14:21:00.002-04:00

As you can see Luke has already outgrown the bassinet! I can't believe how big he is getting...it makes me a little sad that our baby is growing up so fast:( But, I love that he is smiling and interacting with us so much. Soon he'll be laughing (he's so close) and I can't wait for that!

Now if only we could find those crib bolts....

More beach pics...

2008-09-16T17:30:00.003-04:00

Is there such a thing as too many pics of my boys at the beach?? I don't think so:)
Another great weekend in Wells. Matthew played Bocce for the first time...he mostly just wanted to throw the white ball (for those of you who know how to play, you know that the game doesn't work so well when the white ball keeps moving around!). Luke, as usual, enjoyed napping on the beach...not very exciting but he sure looks cute doing it:)

How about this lapful of boys??

Lucky 7

2008-09-15T06:30:00.000-04:00

"Better than I was

More than I am

And all of this happened

By taking your hand

And who I am now

Is who I wanted to be

And now that we're together

I'm stronger than ever, I'm happy and free"

Jeff and I are celebrating 7 years of marriage today! I can't believe it's been 7 years...crazy!

Jeff-you are still my everything all these years later. You have given me so much more love, patience and understanding than I ever thought possible. Thank you for our babies and the life we have built. We've done a darn good job of making this marriage work and I know it's because we are best friends and true partners. Looking forward to many more anniversaries to come:)

2 things...

2008-09-11T14:43:00.009-04:00

First, I hope everyone is taking a moment to remember this day back in 2001 and everyone who was a victim of the attacks whether they lost their lives or just lost a loved one. Jeff and I both knew people who died in the World Trade Center...seems everyone knew someone who died or lost someone and we all shared that loss and the feelings surrounding that horrible day. I think we should all feel lucky that there have not been any attacks on the US since 9/11.

Now a GIGANTIC subject change...

Let me first start off by saying that I'm glad the person involved in this is ok, a little shaken, but not injured.

Big excitement here last night! I came home after a day in Lebanon to find 2 firetrucks, an ambulance, and a police car in front of my house...luckily I had the heads up from my husband that nothing was wrong inside our house but outside there was one overturned, very smashed up car! Seems someone missed the curve in the road, went straight across the driveway and into the ditch right smack in front of our house.

Big excitement in this tiny little town for a Wednesday night!

The funny thing is that we are now 2 for 2...we had a car crash into a tree in front of our old house in Belmont and now an accident in front of our new house! Think we may be destined to have one actually hit our house...guess we should only buy houses that sit pretty far back from the road!

Anyways, they towed the car away and the damage isn't anything that can't be fixed with some loam and grass seed. Matthew was a little shaken up but fine today. Worth a mention though...certainly not an everyday occurrence!

Too Short

2008-09-09T14:11:00.005-04:00

Our vacation is over and was far too short!! The weather was fantastic! In fact, it was so nice that we ended up going back up to Wells after school on Thursday for a few extra days! Although we had plans to do a some of the tourist-y things we didn't actually leave the beach! Matthew was so happy just playing in the sand we just let him and just let ourselves relax and enjoy the sun, surf and sand. This is the first time that Matthew has actually gone in the water and walked on the jetty. This was also Luke's first time at the cottage and as you can see, he enjoyed looking around and sleeping on the beach! But the real highlight was Matthew's discovery of water balloons and how fun it is to throw them off the upper deck onto the lower one...this became a daily activity but there is nothing like pure joy (and a little evil?) on your young son's face (and your husband's!). Now we just need to figure out how to win the lottery so we can stay there all summer:)

Uncle Ryan and Aunt Jenn enjoying their nephews and their 1 day off over Labor Day (you guys work too much!)

Matthew First Day!

2008-09-04T10:44:00.003-04:00

Our Baby is all grown up:(
Today was Matthew first day of preschool. Wasn't sure how the drop off was going to go but to my great surprise and relief Matthew was a champ...no tears, no pouty lip, nothing! Mommy was another story but was able to keep it together around him! He was definitely a little nervous but was ready for the challenge:) Can't wait to go pick him up and hear all about his morning!!

VACATION!!!

2008-08-29T13:56:00.002-04:00

Jeff, Matthew, Luke and I are headed to Wells Beach tomorrow for our annual post Labor Day vacation and I can't wait!! No big plans, just relaxing and spending time with some family and friends. We'll be back Wednesday night to get Matthew ready for school Thursday morning! So no posts for a bit but look for some of his first day:)

Missing Heathy

2008-08-28T13:00:00.002-04:00

Reality is starting to set in:( Matthew got a new truck today and couldn't wait to show Aunt Heather...it made me sad since that won't happen for another 7 weeks!!

My sister who had been living with us during her summer break from college, returned to school this past Sunday. It's only been 3 days and we miss her like crazy. I think she should change her career path and just be a Stay-At-Home Aunt!!

All kidding aside, Heather was a HUGE help to us this summer. The transition from 1 kiddo to 2 would not have been so smooth without her. I'm very lucky to have her for a sister!

Heath-There is a truck her that can't wait to meet you and 2 little boys that are counting down the days until your October break...oh and me too:)

Welcome Michael!

2008-08-25T15:50:00.004-04:00

On Friday Jeff's cousin Eric, his wife Elaina and their daughter Emma welcomed Michael Wayne Schlumper into the world. He weighed in at 6 pounds 13 ounces and was 20 inches long. This is the 8th great grandchild for Jeff's grandmother...pretty amazing.

We are really looking forward to meeting Michael and had to post this picture of him with the cutest big sister out there(well, tied with Megan of course):) Congrats!

Weekend

2008-08-24T21:38:00.007-04:00

We had a great weekend!

On Saturday, Matthew and I got to go to Andrew's 4th birthday party which was a blast...thanks for having us and the dinosaur stamp in the goodie bag was a big hit!

Today we headed up to Laconia. Spent the morning and lunchtime at Jeff's parent's house. We got to visit with them, Aunt Jamie and Renee, and Jeff's 2 grandmothers and grandfather. It was nice to see everyone and celebrate Grammy's birthday.

We left there and headed over to our friend's house...Bill, Michelle and their 2 boys, Christopher and Benjamin were nice enough to invite us over for a swim and dinner. We all had a fantastic time and it was great to see you guys...thanks again:):):):)

Here are some funny swimming pics;

Bill teaching Matthew how to REALLY use the noodle!Benjamin showing us what he learned to do this summer.Matthew navigating the pirate ship...these guys have the coolest toys!
The closest poor Luke got to the pool...maybe next year...

Ordiorne Point & Smiles...

2008-08-22T20:52:00.007-04:00

First, Luke is starting to smile and can I just say it is SO adorable!! I've been having some trouble catching one on my camera but managed to get this one...not the biggest smile ever but definitely a preview of what we have to look forward to...

Second to that, on Monday we went to Ordiorne Point with the playgroup...when I was there I couldn't help but think to myself...why have we never come here before? So, I thought since Jeff had today off and the weather was so nice, maybe it would be fun to head over to Ordiorne after Matthew's nap, play on the playground and have a picnic supper. We had a blast...what a nice way to end the week:)

Trainride

2008-08-17T13:14:00.006-04:00

For some time now Matthew has been wanting to take a ride on the Downeaster. Since we had to go over to Wells on Saturday to clean the cottage between rentals, I thought it might be a good time for him to go. Luke and I dropped Jeff and Matthew off in Durham to catch the train and then picked them back up at the station in Wells. He had a great time and Jeff really enjoyed spending some alone time with him.

Of course it was a gorgeous day at the beach...a big bummer that we only had time to clean and take a short walk. I'm SO happy this is the last 2 week block the house is rented and really looking forward to spending some time over there Labor Day weekend.

Better Than TV

2008-08-15T15:26:00.005-04:00

Big excitement at our house this morning!

As anyone who has met Matthew knows he is a big, BIG, fan of trucks...out of nowhere this morning comes the sound of a truck...the sound of course stops Matthew dead in his tracks...what could it be...the fuel truck possibly? Nope...even better...our neighbors received a delivery of stone and since their driveway is long, narrow and dirt the flat bed was forced to park right, smack in front of our house!! On top of that, there was a forklift that took all the pallets off the truck and drove them up the their driveway.

Being the nice Mom I am, I let Matthew eat his breakfast in front of the window so he could ooh and ahh at the forklift and truck and we could still make it out of the house on time.

As much as I enjoyed watching Matthew be so excited and so into the truck, my heart just melted when he asked me if I thought Luke would like to see the truck too! Well, of course Luke would want to see the truck:) So, I put Luke in the bouncy seat so he could see too...
I couldn't help but laugh when I overheard Matthew telling Luke not to be afraid of the noise, it was "just a truck, it's really cool and won't hurt you"!!!! I love having two boys:)

Happy 21st!!

2008-08-09T07:50:00.002-04:00

A big HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my "baby" sister Heather... she turns 21 today! I can't believe it!! It seems like just yesterday my mother was waking me up to say she was on her way to the hospital (one month early) to have the baby. Here we are 21 years later...wow. Heather was the best thing to have happened to me in my 11 years of life...it was like having a real life doll and I wanted to do EVERYTHING for the baby...guess it was good practice!

This is a picture of Heather and I on her 3rd birthday (8/9/90). Funny that she is the same age here as Matthew...makes me feel old that my own child is the age I so clearly remember Heather being...

Heather-you're the best sister anyone could ask for (except for me of course...hahahaha). Thank you for all your help this summer and for 21 years of making me smile. You are a fantastic Aunt and both of the boys are lucky to have you. Now go get us some Margaritas!!!!:)

Our Weekend in Lebanon...

2008-08-04T09:59:00.008-04:00

We went up to Lebanon (my hometown) on Saturday to take the boys to the Shrine Parade. We took Matthew last year and he LOVED watching the little cars and trucks buzz around. The highlight this year was that Uncle Ryan was in the parade! He was the Medical Escort for the King and Queen of the parade...Matthew thought it was pretty cool that Uncle Ryan got to ride in a convertible! Ryan was also able to get us into the staging area before the parade started where Matthew got to see the cars and trucks up close as well as meet some clowns! As you can see from the pics, Luke wasn't bothered by the noise of the parade and chose to sleep through it!

We got to spend the rest of the weekend at Uncle Ryan and Aunt Jenn's house. Matthew loved picking berries in their yard (they sure have enough of them!) and Luke enjoyed napping with his favorite Uncle. Thanks for having us, we LOVE having you back:)

Last but not least, we were able to celebrate Aunt Heather's 21st birthday (a little early). Heather was a bit tired after attending the Springsteen concert in Foxboro the night before but humored us anyways:)

Matthew's big night out...

2008-08-01T08:00:00.006-04:00

Matthew has really surprised us with how well he has adjusted from only child to oldest child...I was especially worried about how that was going to go. We are super fortunate that he loves "his baby" so much and isn't showing any signs of jealousy. We are at a definite advantage right now with my sister living here for the summer (while home from college) as it provides Luke with the best child care anyone could ask for so we can spend alone time with Matthew and I think that this is really helping him adjust. Hopefully this won't change in 3 weeks when Heather heads back to school:(

So as a special reward for being such a great Big Brother, Jeff and I took Matthew to his first Fisher Cats game on Wednesday night. We all had a blast and the best part was it was free foam finger night...I mean really, is there anything better than your 3 year old sticking a foam finger in your face all night?? While we had fun with just Matthew, we are definitely looking forward to taking both our boys in the future:)

Luke-y the Luke

2008-07-29T20:34:00.001-04:00

Zoo Pictures

2008-07-27T15:06:00.001-04:00

Our First Big Adventure...

2008-07-27T14:59:00.002-04:00

With TWO Kids!!

Back at the beginning of the summer (pre Luke) we decided we wanted to go to the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence. We went a few years ago and Matthew really loved it. Since I didn't want to walk around a zoo 9 months prego we figured we would wait until after the baby...thought it would be a nice get away.

In the days leading up to our departure on Saturday I couldn't help but wonder what I had gotten us into! Did we really think we could take a 2 hour drive, visit a zoo, eat out and stay overnight in a hotel with a 2 and a half week old?? We must be crazy??!! But, since Matthew had been looking forward to it all summer we didn't change our plans.

So we got up bright and early Saturday morning to head out...2 hours later we were in the car and ready to go!! Figured with a turn around time like that we were doomed but I was pleasantly surprised! Luke slept the whole way in the car. Woke up when we got there, ate and slept through the entire zoo in the stroller. Matthew had a blast at the zoo. We headed to the hotel in the mid afternoon, both boys napped then we went out to eat and even had time for a swim before bed. This morning we had breakfast at the hotel, went for another swim and came home (not a peep out of Luke the whole way).

I'm glad I didn't change our plans. It was a great first trip for this family of four:)

Blueberry Picking & Lounging

2008-07-25T15:14:00.006-04:00

For some reason Matthew has been anxiously awaiting blueberry picking season...not sure why this is but he's been talking about it forever!! Funny how they get things in their heads! Anyways, after being rained out twice this week, we finally got a chance to go this morning...just Matthew and I. Was nice to have a chance to spend some quality alone time with him (thanks Heather for watching Luke). He had a great time and the picking was awesome. We also got a chance to see the goats and bring home some of Emery Farm's YUMMY cookies.

I'm also posting this picture of Luke...maybe it's the sleep deprivation but I think it's hilarious. He LOVES to sleep on the changing pad...seems to be his favorite place. Works out great for me since it's so transportable...here he is lounging on the deck while big brother is swimming. If only it were acceptable for me to be doing this! Check out his arms...always has them over his head like this when he's asleep. I know I'm a little biased but I think this kid is pretty darn funny and super cute:)

Grammy & Grampa's

2008-07-18T15:27:00.007-04:00

Since Jeff was off today we figured it was the perfect day for a trek up to Laconia to see Aunt Jamie and Renee's new house and take a dip at Grammy & Grampa's beach on Lake Opechee. Luke rode great in the car and Matthew had a blast in the lake. Here are some pics...

Matthew retrieving a golf ball from under the water

Not sure these are the intended passengers...
The cousins

Can't tell these two are brother and sister! Look how they are standing!!!!

Grammy and Grampa enjoying their new grandson

First few days with Luke

2008-07-17T15:44:00.001-04:00

1 year!!!

2008-07-14T15:44:00.003-04:00

Happy 1st Anniversary to Ryan and Jenn!! Can't believe it's been a year already:) We still have such fun memories from your wedding (except having to make a speech...only for you 2 knuckleheads would I stand up in front of that many people). We love you guys:) Enjoy your day!

Introducing Luke

2008-07-14T09:04:00.004-04:00

Here he is! Luke Couser Corriveau was born Tuesday July 8, 2008 at 8:01am. For those of you who are wondering...Couser (pronounced cow zer) is my Mom's maiden name. I'm hoping to put a slide show together and post it as soon as I can...in the meantime, enjoy this one...
Big Brother Matthew holding "his baby" (that's what he calls Luke) for the first time.

The Big Day...

2008-07-07T18:52:00.003-04:00

In a little over 12 hours The Corriveaus will be a family of 4! Hard to imagine. We will be leaving here around 4:45am (ouch!) to get to the hospital for 5:30am, the c-section is scheduled for 7:30 and with any luck we'll be holding our new baby soon there after:)

Will post the info and pictures as soon as possible.

Wish us luck:)

Lazy weekend...

2008-07-06T19:54:00.008-04:00

We didn't have the most exciting 4th of July weekend ever due to obvious reasons. We just otok it easy but we did get a lot done in preparation for the baby and since the weather was so nice we were able to spend a bunch of time outside. Here are a few pics from today...

This is my idea of the perfect summer night...grilling, swimming and eating outside. Too bad this pool isn't a million times bigger and inground!

Matthew has the best blue eyes! I wonder if the baby will too????

Watermelon

2008-07-05T08:10:00.002-04:00

Most of you are probably thinking that this picture of a watermelon is in celebration of The Fourth...you know the cook out staple...

Well you'd be wrong!

I'm posting this picture so everyone can see how my belly is looking these days...like a BIG, HUGE watermelon!!!!!

My doctor has indicated that the baby will be the size of a BIG, HUGE watermelon!!

Oh well...only 3 more days then we'll find out for sure.

3 Days!! I can't believe it. I'm excited and nervous at the same time...not nervous at all for the c-section or having a newborn. There may be something wrong with this but I'm just nervous for Matthew....how he's going to do when I'm in the hospital and then when we get home. Will he adapt ok? Things like that.

Guess we're going to find out soon! Wish us luck:)

Mom...

2008-06-29T07:52:00.006-04:00

Although there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about and remember my Mom, I'm especially thinking about and remembering her today on what would have been her 62nd birthday and 40th wedding anniversary...I've always thought it was neat that she got married on her birthday!

This picture is her on her 35th birthday, which would have made me 5 years old...for anyone out there who is under the illusion I have straight hair, now you know the truth! Yep, my best friend is my straightener!

The Truth...

2008-06-28T19:35:00.003-04:00

We all know that if you really want the truth, ask a 3 year old. Here is my conversation with Matty earlier this evening as I was walking across our family room toward him...

Matty: What's in your shirt?
Me: Here (pointing at my stomach)?
Matty: Yes, think it's a beach ball?
Me: No, that's the baby!
Matty: Think it's a super big one?
Me: YES! Sure feels that way!
Matty: Think YOU will fit in the garage door?

Matthew is constantly concerned about whether the pick-up trucks Jeff brings home from work will fit into our garage...so apparently I rank right up there with a truck as far as size goes! Classic.

Happy Birthday!

2008-06-20T13:03:00.003-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RYAN!!

No mention of HOW MANY years ago this was!

You are the best Brother, Brother-in-Law and Uncle we could ever ask for.

Matty and I enjoyed having breakfast with you...hope you have a good rest of the day.

We love you:)

Love, J, K, M, & F

Christmas in June

2008-06-18T19:40:00.006-04:00

It was a big day for Matthew...his new swingset (or as he likes to say "playground") was delivered. Not only is he a big fan of having it in our yard, he also really enjoyed watching "the men" set it up...oh and did I mention they drove a "big truck"...also very exciting. The funniest part for me was Matthew telling me that one of the men was naked!! Of course, by naked he meant just shirtless!!!

Happy Dad's Day!

2008-06-15T20:25:00.004-04:00

A big Happy Father's Day to Jeff. You are the absolute BEST Dad in the world. I always knew that you'd make a fantastic Dad but I never could have guessed just how well you would fit into the role. There has never been a son who loves his Dad more than Matty loves you and I know it will be the same with the new "Little Buddy". Thanks for being so dedicated and putting us number one. We love you very much.

PS: All this goes without saying...just take a look at the lawn:)

Ah, the Good Old Days...

2008-06-09T14:16:00.011-04:00

We spent a long weekend in ME with my brother, sister-in-law and sister. It was so nice after 4 years to be together at the cottage for 4 consecutive days. Seems like since Ryan moved to NC 4 years ago our time together there is very limited and usually coupled with other events going on that make relaxing and enjoying it impossible. Before Ryan and Jenn moved we spent almost every weekend with them so it was a big change...feels good to have things returning to normal:)

We also took Matthew crabbing for the first time this weekend. He's not exactly brave and adventurous so it was no surprise that he wanted NO part of walking in the water, turning rocks over but he had a blast, as you'll see in the pictures doing his thing...
Running around the outside of the crabbing area was a lot more fun than walking in the freezing cold water!!

The real fun was chasing Daddy and later, Uncle Ryan on the bike...

Making Uncle Ryan do all the work...

and Daddy carry him seemed to be the best plan!

Our last trip to Maine with me looking like this! The next beach picture I'll have my arms full instead:)Our trip to get ice cream...notice Matthew has none...poor kid's lactose intolerance makes this not so fun but we're lucky he's pretty adaptable and was happy sharing a lemonade with Mom and enjoying his lollipop...the special prize he won at the arcade!

Everything Out!

2008-06-02T08:02:00.005-04:00

Here are some pictures from our fun day of unloading the "big truck"...

Matthew told us he wants to drive a big truck when he grows up

Uncle Ryan's Supervisor

Matthew loved this game...Mommy, not so much!

The real highlight...helping Daddy back the truck down the driveway

Jeff...a Trucker?

2008-05-30T20:29:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow around 3am my husband will be leaving North Carolina to drive this huge 24 foot truck all the way to New Hampshire!! Yikes! Oh, did I mention that the truck will be pulling a car dolly behind it? Let's remember here for a minute that Jeff has ZERO experience driving a rig this size! The whole thing makes me a little nervous to say the least. I have no doubt he can drive it straight down the highway no problem but what about getting TO the highway and getting gas?? Oh boy!

Let's all keep our fingers crossed for a safe and UNEVENTFUL trip North!

***UPDATE***
Although I wouldn't call their trip "uneventful" Ryan, Jenn, Sadie and Jeff arrived in one piece at 9:30pm last night. A short 17.5 hour trip (usually 14ish)...slowed down by weather, traffic and a Budget truck that would randomly stall out! Jeff drove the truck the entire way and seemed to enjoy it, however, I don't think he has any plans to give up his day job!!!! Matthew and I are headed up to see them this morning...of course I won't be much help unloading it with this melon in my belly but Matthew is excited to check out the truck and we can't wait to see everyone!

Welcome Back to NH guys! We are SO happy to have you close again!!!!

Memorial Day

2008-05-27T14:39:00.001-04:00

2008-05-27T09:33:00.004-04:00

We spent the weekend in Wells, ME. The weather was fantastic and we had a great time...got some work done too. Jeff and Matthew spread some mulch around the sea rose bushes on the side of the house, raked the rock path and Matthew helped clean the deck furniture. The definite highlight of the weekend was Matthew's trip to the arcade where he earned enough tickets playing Skeeball and Whack-A-Mole to get not 1 but 2 dum-dum lollipops!! Big day! Probably the quietest Memorial Day weekend we've had in awhile since Heather is still at school and Ryan and Jenn are in NC...we missed you guys!

Happy 10th...yikes!

2008-05-24T11:38:00.007-04:00

Today is the 10th anniversary of my UNH Graduation...10 years! Crazy! It seems like it was just yesterday! Of course when you look at all that has happened in the last 10 years, it's easier to see...getting married, having a baby (and another on the way), buying 2 houses and multiple vehicles, several jobs.

I had a great time at UNH (and did a little studying too). I, like every other college student, didn't realize how easy things were and the changes we would go through once we were officially in the "Real World" but I wouldn't trade my life now for any of it.

So, Happy 10th UNH Class of 1998 and a big shout out to some of you that read my blog. Just for laughs, here are a few pictures from that day.

Look how young my sister is here!

So It All Begins...

2008-05-23T16:21:00.002-04:00

Some might say that I'm nesting...I know deep down that I've just put too many things off for too long!!

I don't know about you but the Widget with the baby countdown isn't cute, it's downright scary!! 46 days??? What?? Does anyone know how much stuff there is to do between now and then? Can we slow that thing down at all? Oh yeah, I don't like being pregnant, that's not an option??!!

Since the list of things to do prior to the baby's arrival goes on and on, I got up today and vowed to myself that I would accomplish SOMETHING. First up, making some space for baby things in the Family Room.

Anyone who has been here knows that we have lost our Family Room to Matthew's toys. I, of course, prior to having children, told anyone who would listen that we would not have a house overrun with toys...boy am I eating my words!!

Our brilliant idea to help us find our carpet and furniture was to finish the basement, make the typical playroom down there with closets for lots of storage. It took a long time but the playroom is done! Great! So, let's move stuff down there...wait a minute, just one small problem...the closets are already full with the stuff that was just sitting in our basement prior to it being finished. You know, the boxes of stuff that you never unpacked, things we haven't seem for 4 years but for some reason we need. Everyone has this kind of stuff, right? Let me know if you are someone who does not!

So really this is a two fold project...

Anyways, Matthew and I went through all the toys in the Family Room...he was actually a big help putting things in different baskets or drawers, headed to one place or another. After that, on to the basement. I managed to get some things sorted out, a pile of things headed to the attic (that's another story!) and the closet rearranged and (sort of) ready for the toys that had now been displaced from the upstairs.

Of course, looking around you can't really tell that I did much of anything! I think I cleared out just enough space in the Family Room for the swing. But, at the end of the day, I actually accomplished SOMETHING. Problem is, there is still SO MUCH to do. Hopefully my little countdown to the right will help keep us on track:)

Happy Birthday

2008-05-22T13:35:00.002-04:00

A big HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jeff's sister, Jamie!! No mention of what anniversary of her 30th this is of course:) We hope you have a great day and year ahead!!

We're Back!

2008-05-21T15:25:00.001-04:00

2008-05-21T15:24:00.003-04:00

We are back from NC! Had a great time and really enjoyed sharing all the graduation festivities with Ryan and Jenn. Like I've said before, we are so proud of Ryan and all he has accomplished. Here are some of the pictures...

More pictures on Ryan and Jenn's blog...link to the right.

Matthew was a trooper. These things are tough for little guys to sit through but we couldn't have asked for better behavior. Of course, the highlight of the trip for him wasn't Ryan receiving his degree...it was the shuttle bus ride from the airport to Enterprise and back again! Too funny. Although Jeff and I liked seeing Matthew wearing the MD Regalia, we suspect he his interests are more vehicle related!

Drew & Monica

2008-05-16T21:36:00.002-04:00

Unfortunately we are missing something very important this weekend...Jeff's cousin Andrew is getting married!! Just wanted to say BEST WISHES and we will be thinking about you guys:) Monica-welcome to the family. Have a safe trip to HI, lucky ducks! Can't wait to see the pictures...

Who would have guessed?

2008-05-16T08:58:00.008-04:00

This guy...a doctor? Tomorrow we will be traveling to NC to attend a weekend long celebration of my brother's graduation from Wake Forest School of Medicine. We are all super proud of all he has done and accomplished. Still, it makes me laugh to think of some of his antics over the years and the image of him playing Guitar Hero for hours, knowing that he will be in charge of the people's well-being:) Actually, no one is better suited to be a Pediatrician. Children have always gravitated toward him and love him...my son's love and obsession for Uncle Ryan is certainly proof of that!

This will also be our last trip to NC. We have traveled down there about 10 times in the last 4 years and absolutely LOVE the Winston-Salem area. If any of you ever have the chance to travel there, I highly recommend it.

That being said, we are SUPER excited that Ryan, Jenn and Sadie will be moving back to NH in another week as Ryan will be doing his Residency at Children's Hospital at Dartmouth. It has been a difficult 4 years with them so far away and missing so much of Matthew's life and us their life. We have been fortunate that we have been able to travel so much and they have been able to get back to NH on their breaks.

Ry-GOOD LUCK & CONGRATULATIONS!! We are all so proud of you and how hard you have worked. I wish Mom were here to share this with you, she would be the proudest of all:)

I've Joined the Ranks...

2008-05-15T08:35:00.000-04:00

After becoming addicted to several other Blogs, I've decided to create my own. I'm hoping that this will prove to be a good way to keep in touch with our friends and family, near and far, and keep you updated on our life and activities.

On another note...

A big CONGRATULATIONS to my Sister-In-Law Jenn! On Tuesday she graduated from Nursing School:)