Pumpkins

Fall is my favorite time of year for many reasons. Fires and marshmallows at night, cold exhale of fresh air in the early morning and the beautiful colors surrounding us at all times. In Massachusetts I always enjoyed driving over the bridge between Millis and Medfield right across from the Charles. I always thought that there couldn’t be many other places where you could see so many colors at glance other than the mountains. Up here though, the foliage seems to be everywhere. Our back and side yards capture its beauty quite well.

Over the last three weeks or so, (where I left off) we have been taking in the new season with gusto! School has now set in as just a part of our routine. JD, you were recently Student of the Week at your school. Each “SOTW” has to create a poster of his or her own.
This poster is filled with, things you like, don’t like, what you want to be when you grow up, three wishes, all sorts of things. I gave you a bunch of magazines to get started and you began to cut out pictures applicable to the questions/statements on the poster. You cut out a picture of KG (what you want to be when you grow up), candy (things you like), ect, ect. When you had finished you probably cut out about 20 things in all. As mom and I were looking through the things you, “Don’t like” we saw that you randomly cut out a picture of an old lady? Mom and I laughed and laughed at this, as it was such a strange picture, not to mention we had no idea you didn’t like old ladies! I asked you what Ms Delong thought of your picture, and you mentioned that she liked it, but also laughed at the old lady.

Each night after dinner and before your shower JD, you do homework. Usually math and reading. You have been so enthusiastic about this each and every night. In fact, on the nights that you don’t have homework, you pull out one of our little Pokemon math books and you pick out an exercise to complete in place of school homework. I think you have already done more homework in one-year, then I have done in all of my years. I hope in starting homework so early, it will help to formulate a routine that you can stick to for years to come. I could never sit still long enough to do it, couldn’t stand it.

Adam, you have been taking to school too. Last night you were showing all of us the Wiggle Dance and the Shoe Dance, which you had learned the day prior. You’ve been on field trips and are learning colors, shapes and painting a lot. You love to create, just like your Mom and Nana. You do some sort of coloring/painting everyday at home. Mom moved her art nook up to the attic and both you and JD have set up a space for yourselves too. The three of you have been up there regularly painting pictures and pumpkins.

Speaking of pumpkins…we were fortunate this year to have a neighbor down the street selling them for a max of 4 bucks. Pretty good size too. It always amazes me how much they cost when you buy them at the store or at a farm stand, but this year we lucked out. One week night after work the four of us decided to walk down to find out what the pumpkins looked like. Adam traveled in his favorite mode of transportation (his wagon), JD was on his bike and stopped to say hello to the horses, and Mom and I stocked up on coffee, as it was very brisky on this night! When we arrived you both picked up your pumpkins and off we went. It was a gorgeous night for a walk.

Adam, one day a few weeks ago you were excited that it was raining outside. This puzzled Mom and I a little but we didn’t think much of it. A bit of time went by and before we knew it you were naked and running around in the back yard! You where playing baseball, running out your “Homeruns” and eventually playing in an almost full-of-water flowerpot!! Quite the site for the neighbors I’m sure.

PopPop also came down to help us out with work, as he often down. He roto-tilled a portion of our yard for a vegetable garden that Mom has wanted to work on for next year. She really loved to see you both get excited about going to the garden this year and grabbing peas and tomatoes, washing them (occasionally) and eating them up! PopPop also helped out by chopping down a dead tree that Mom wanted to take care of. This will also help us with wood for the stove next year. Mom enjoyed spending time with her Dad very much on this day. She appreciates his work and willingness to help very much. Adam also enjoyed PopPops trip down as he immediately brought me out to see the downed tree in the yard when I arrived home!

Mom and I were able to get both of your rooms done for the first time since we’ve lived here. They were kind of haphazardly thrown together for a while, not real boys rooms. We worked all weekend on getting these rooms complete. You both were a big help, sometimes too big of help! Adam, you’re room is filled with Chameleon and Baseball pictures, stuffed animals and a bright colored birdhouse. JD, you have your red sox stuff, some Pats things, your animals and some cartoon people (I forget what they’re called). We are on the right track with your rooms now and can only improve them from here on out. I look forward to adding things that represent your interests, as you get older!

We’ve done a lot of yard and housework lately so last weekend was a little different. Saturday started out with a soccer game for JD. I have to say, JD it was the best sporting event we’ve had for you thus far. It was as intense as a little guy’s game can get. Our team usually kills the teams we play but this week was finally different. We played another team that had some good players and they scored right off the bat! This surprised our team and immediately the game was on! The parents were into it too. Lots of cheering and hollering! Everyone kept in perspective that this was a little kid’s game and no one was out of hand, but certainly took it for what it was.

At one point of the game you had a breakaway and a wide-open shot when out of nowhere their best player came and slide tackled you! About two minutes later the same situation occurred and you put a little move on him, then with one touch, popped the ball right into the back of the goal! So fun! Then later in the game one of the other coaches decided to put you in net. You saved every shot and threw the ball out over everyone, just like we practiced. Throwing NOT like a baseball, keep you elbow cocked until you release! I must say, this was real weird for me. To have my son in goal, just as I used to be, playing against a real (all relative) team! I had some of those old feelings come back from when I played years and years ago. I kept my mouth quiet when it came to coaching you for this game, but at the end congratulated you and told you that you played well. It was a drizzly, rainy, muddy day and the kids had so much fun!

After this game, we were off to Chad and Ash’s house for a pre-pumpkin fest gathering. We arrived here around 12:30 and hung out with the Merwin’s, Hamers, Ferchenzy’s and some others for
a while, before walking to Somersworth for the festivities. Here Adam painted a pumpkin, decorated (and ate) a cupcake, made a scary mask to wear and played some little kid games. JD was able to play pumpkin bowling, pumpkin basketball, pumpkin golf and some other funny, pumpkin-smashing games. Both of you boys loaded a pumpkin of your choice into a catapult and watched it go about 30 feet high before it smashing down on the payment. Yes, we are in Maine.

After the walk back to the Ferchenzy’s we had tons of food and some yummy fall drink. Pumpkin brownies, two types of chili, nachos, and many more desserts. The kids were off playing for the entire time and there were quite a few of you. Eventually the Chad’s and I joined you guys for soccer and leave throwing! Afterwards, it was time for a fire. Always a nice way to wind down kids and dogs, not to mention us adults. Mom spent time with baby Viv Hamer to accommodate her baby fix and there was puppy there that Adam had fun playing with too. We arrived home around 9:00 on this long fall day.



You both have progressed in your relationship with each other since school has started too. There is certainly still fighting, tattling, wrestling, and stealing but there is also a sense of camaraderie that I haven’t seen before. You guys are sticking up for each other when the other gets in trouble, playing for hours together, talking and laughing, and when one of you wakes up in the morning you go right over and wake the other. Yesterday while JD was in school, Adam was found in JD’s room just standing. When Mom found you Ad, right away your quivering lip popped out. Mom asked what was wrong and you shrugged your shoulders before breaking down. Mom asked if you missed your brother and you said, yes. On this day you were excited to see your big bro hop off the bus and he was just excited to see you greeting him in the driveway.

First of Firsts

Adam, you were all dressed up in your new school clothes and excited to go! We were all up early on this Tuesday and you immediately wanted to get dressed. You said, “School starts today!” After getting dressed you ran over to grab your backpack and asked for help putting it on. School started at 9:00 and you put your backpack on around 7:10!


The three of us went outside around 8:00 to unwind some noticeable energy. We kicked around the soccer ball and took some pictures before it was time to go. Adam, you seemed very excited and I was worried that as we rode over, this excitement would dissipate.


You are going to pre-school a little bit early for your age, but Mom and I thought it would be a great learning and socialization experience for you. “New Beginnings” is the name of your school in York and Jessie is you teacher. This is the same place JD went. Mom and I truly trust and adore Jessie. We know that when we leave you’re in good hands.


We arrived at school at 9:00, Mom, JD and I dropped you off. You were immediately excited as you spied Lighting McQueen across the room. You were playing for about 10 minutes before it was time for Mom and I to leave. We said goodbye and you immediately latched on to me and wouldn’t let go! You cried for about two minutes and that was that! You had an excellent first day.


You’ve been to school now 5 times and Mom and I consistently say what a good move it was to send you. The teachers and parents adore you and you simply love to be in their company. You have started to learn colors, numbers, you went on a bear hunt, and yesterday Mom accompanied your crew to Apple Crest. An apple farm in North Hampton, NH. You had a blast! The trees are small enough where you can pick the apples right off the trees. They had a hayride, apple cider, and HUGE pumpkins.


JD was next off to school. JD shoved off on the Wednesday after Adam. JD, this year was really like old hat for you. You were more excited about your new clothes and seeing your friends than anything else. You hopped right on the Yellow Sub and off you went. I was sad to see you got this year (although clearly it was time!). You’ve had a great summer with your family and I knew you would miss being home. Mom spent tons of time with you, doing projects, hooking you up with your friends, and give you one on one time. You both made some nice strides and seeing you go was kind of a culmination of good things.


You have also been at school for three weeks. Mom touched base with your teacher, Ms Delong this week and she had some nice things to say. She said that you are the most well behaved boy she has in the class. She said that you’ve received numerous little awards for following directions, listening, ect. None of this you have told us!


Anyway, we know that it is very early in the year but Mom and I have talked many times about how well the school year has started off for you both. You each wake up in the morning and are on your way. I don’t expect you will always be this excited to get to school, so I’m making sure that I take notice of this at your young age.

Labor Day Weekend

Such a good summer we had. We traveled throughout New England quite a bit, saw many friends, both local and further away, and had some great quality family time.


Labor Day has come and gone and this year we spent it as we typically do, down in Massachusetts. Prior to shoving off to Mass, on Friday night we went to Chad and Cadens house for a cookout. JD and Adam, you both enjoyed playing on Caden’s new swing set, hunting for fairy houses, and blowing (spilling) bubbles that Chad picked up. We stayed pretty late into the night and had a great time. Lots of laughs as I recall.

This year, like last we had a cookout planned at Cauf’s house for Sunday and one at Nana’s on Saturday. Nana and Uncle Don have had an awful summer dealing with Gram and Grampy. Truly. Usually I do a good job of seeing the glass half full, but in the situation it’s difficult. Anyhow, we thought it would be nice for Nan if Meg and I and our families had a nice quiet Saturday together. The kids got along fantastic. This was the first time, now that Adam and Dave are getting older, that the adults could kind of just hang out and talk.


Asbury and Brick got along for the most part and Livy even warmed up to them at one point. She is fiercely afraid of dogs, not sure why, but she is. As is a good dog to get warmed up to, as he wouldn’t and probably couldn’t hurt a fly.


The next morning, Mom slept in and the three of us met Cauf and Riley at the playground at Oak Grove. We stayed here for a good chunk of time. You both created a game on the slide where one of you would stand over the slide and the other would slide through his legs. Riley even took part of this game a couple times. Cauf and I had a chance to catch up and make dumb jokes while you three did your thing.


Soon enough the afternoon arrived and people started to filter in to Cauf’s backyard. Dunph, Mikey, Kraby, Beniots, Lagos and others ‘arrived early, and we got to eating tips from the Meathouse. JD, you went off to play with Casey, Jamie and Bryan Kane, while Adam spent time with Riley, Noah and Jordan. This was yet another place where the parents are realizing that the kids can play with less supervision and stress than the prior year.


We ended the night here with a nice, solid listening session. You both had gone back to Nana’s to hit the rack, but the Cauf’s, Benoit’s, Mom and I, listened to Bruce and drank whisky well into the night. We took turns picking songs and there was quite a bit of dancing and singing to go around.


We arrived home early on Sunday and did a bunch of yard work. We had a nice weekend but were happy to be home. The week ahead was a big week for you both as school was about to begin.

Sliding

After returning from the Cape you boys were able to enjoy some much needed R and R. Adam, you were back to your four-hour naps and JD took it easy for a couple days. Adam, you are such a homebody. Even at this young age, you enjoy coming home as much as anyone, and even more so then the three of us. As we drove through South Berwick Center, you said, “Almost home, Daddy.” Then we passed the farm on our street and you said, “We’re home, we’re home!!” As soon as we pulled in the driveway though, we hard a gigantic, thunder crack! Adam, you don’t like thunder and all of us jumped a mile as this was unexpected and ear piercing! We ended up spending about an hour sitting on the couch enjoying the storm, even before we unpacked the car. Mom thought that this was a great way to end our fun vacation.


The following weekend we were up to Grandie’s for the Waldenburg weekend. Mom’s cousins and Uncle Michael’s family came to Maine for a few days. We did quite a bit of tubing this weekend in-between pouring rainstorms.


This weekend Mom and I decided to join at gym down the street called The Works. I have been motivated and working out now for a few weeks and mom has been interested in doing the same. I was lucky to get a bonus at work this year and we figured that we would put some of that money toward a membership for the family here. It seems to have something for everyone. We spent all day here yesterday. Mom and I took turns working out while you guys played in the pool. There is a waterslide, and many pool toys built in that you both thoroughly enjoyed. Kids have to pass a swim test in order to utilize the waterslide.




JD, we arrived early on this day and we knew there was a test but weren’t sure what the test consisted of. I told you what I thought it might be and without any direction, you proceeded to practice this pattern for a good hour. Finally when the lifeguards arrived a few hours later you and I walked over to find out about the “Exam.” The lifeguard told us that kids have to swim, one way the width of the pool in the deep end without stopping and then swim back, backwards, again without stopping. I wasn’t sure if you could do all of this stuff, as you typically don’t swim backwards, infact I don’t think I’ve ever seen you swim backwards. Instead of talking about it, I just said, “Do it, Jade.” Before I could get the words out you had jumped in the pool and were off. I know that the lifeguards weren’t even ready, but we were wasting no time! You got NO push off the side and swam almost the whole way under water. You touched the side and all of a sudden you started swimming back, backwards! JD, you looked like you had done this 1000 times, your confidence was awesome. One of the lifeguards said, “Wow, good job, buddy!” You got your name and the book so you can ride it now whenever you want. I would say you probably road the slide 25 times yesterday. I road it about 10!


The day before we spent the day at the beach with Grandma and Grandpa. Another great day at Ocean Park. Dad and I had a great talk and spent about a half hour riding the waves. We haven’t done that in a long, long time. Dad looked like a little kid (as I’m sure I did too) taking those waves
to the beach. He hasn’t lost a step. Carol and Mom spent their time chatting like they do hanging out in their chairs overlooking the beach. At the end of the day Grandpa and Grandma took JD to the Creek to jump off rocks while Ad, Mom and I played ball in the shallow water. Ocean Park doesn’t disappoint…ever.

That night we had the Chad’s, Chris and their families over for a cookout….kind of. It was crazy raining but we made due. Good to catch up with everyone it had been a few weeks since we had all been together.


Today is Monday and you guys are off to the pool with Mom and JD is hanging out with Evan this afternoon. Funny enough JD’s summer is almost over. A week and half he’s back to school and Adam is back to ruling the house for most of the week!

To the Cape

Part 2 of our vacation started off at Ocean Park. Nana was up for the week with Grampie B and we wanted to make sure we stopped by and spent the day with them prior to our voyage down to the Cape.


We arrived bright and early and had some breakfast at the Billow House with Nana and Gramp. We stayed here until about 2:00 playing on the beach. JD we watched you work your skim board for quite some time. You have practiced so much this summer. At the beginning you couldn’t stay on for more than a second and now you are riding the board for 10-15 feet and learning how to move your weight to steer to the left and right. You are still taking some big falls but I’m thinking that won’t stop until you’ve nailed down the “Jump on.”


From here we left for the Cape arriving close to 6:00. When we arrived we couldn’t believe what the house looked like. We expected a small, traditional, cape cottage. This was anything but! It was a 12 bedroom, 6-bathroom mansion right on the water. As we pulled up we double-checked the address to make sure we were in the right place. Before we knew it, Cauf and Brown came out to greet us in the driveway.


We immediately got a tour, showing us the full bar and gameroom in the basement, the roof deck porch, the gigantic greatroom, and the many, many other rooms that we could use at our leisure. We were happy to be spending time with the Caulfield’s, Benoits, and Browns.




During the first few days we spent a lot of time at the beach down the street. It was a two minute walk and the water was warm, considering what we’re used to up here. Adam had fun playing with Riley and JD spent much time with Mike, which is typically the case when we all get together. We spent quite a bit of time on the swimming platform about 30/40 yards out into the water. When the tide was in, it was a challenge for JD to swim out to the platform but each time you tried you made it! Mike, Cauf or I were always at your side, but you did almost all of the swimming by yourself. It was very nice to see.


Mike brought his fishing pole and was excited to do some fishing in the ocean. JD, you were all about this idea also. Mike took you to the bait shop down the way and you got some salt-water worms. You were surprised to see that they had teeth and bite pretty often! You and Mike spent about 3 hours fishing and one day you caught three fish! Mike put the worm on the hook and cast it out and you did the rest. He even let you (or made you) reel in the fish each time you got a bite. You had a blast and were talking about your fishing experience for much of the week.


One of the nights on the Cape we decided to take in a Cape League baseball game. We were staying in Falmouth and there was team playing only 10 minutes away. I have to say, I was impressed with how much fun this game was to observe. The kids playing were all from big name baseball schools and some had been drafted already. I took the two of you around the way to stand right behind home plate! It was interesting to actually see what a 95 mph fastball looks like!

At night after the kids were in bed, the adults had a fun cocktail hour. Each night a new couple was responsible for making a new drink. This required some prior planning and we actually discovered some new, tasty drinks! We also played some sort of game each night. The house was so vast that we didn’t have to worry about being too loud, which was probably a good thing.




JD, one night Mom took you to a water park. All of the kids that were down for the week were Adam’s age and that got old for you at some points throughout the week. Mom noticed this and whisked you away on this evening. You had a great time here and even went down your first GIANT water slide!


Later in the week we checked out some different beaches on the cape, all were beautiful. We also spent time at one of the largest playgrounds I have even seen. Adam you just stood there and looked up at these wooden towers made for kids to climb, then you looked at me and said, “Addie climb up in the sky?” Soon enough we were both up in the towers. It was not very easy for me to get down, as the preferred departure method was a little slide!


Some of our most fun times came just before dinner. Everyone was back from his or her daily excursions and ready to relax. We played Hillbilly Horseshoes, football, and hit around the baseball almost every night before retiring to the front porch for drinks. While the adults were on the porch, Adam and Riley enjoyed time in a blowup pool in the front yard. It is amazing how much Adam and Riley look alike. Adam, you are noticeably bigger, but you both have fair skin, big blue eyes and long blond hair. You both got along well all week long and seem to have similar interests.


This week was filled with laughs all week long. You guys got to spend some quality time with some of my good friends. Its always fun to see you enjoy them and their humor just as I do. They all remarked throughout the week, what good guys you are. Adam, you did your thing all week.
You were giving your sneaky smiles, dancing and tackling people, as you often like to do. You even locked yourself in your bedroom at one point causing a bit of panic. Luckily Pop Pop gave me a new Swiss Army knife just before we left on the trip! I look forward to having additional vacations with these families as time goes on.


We went from the Cape to Nana’s house. She was in Maine but we stayed at her house as Mom and I had one more event left in our 2.5-week adventure. There is no better way that I can think of to end a family vacation than taking in the greatest rock n’ roll show of all time. Bruce was playing in Foxboro for an 8:00 show on this Saturday night. Cauf, Denise, Mom and I arrived to tailgate in the parking lot around 4:00 on this day. Soon after, Donnie, Kim, Tiff, Dick, Cathy, and Heather arrived just a few spots away.


The forecast was for rain so Mom and I picked up a bunch of ponchos, which ended up coming in very handy. In the parking lot we got some drizzle but nothing serious. We had a couple brews and lots of food while waiting for show time. This was one of the most fun pre-game times I have had for a show. The fans at show like this are almost always somewhat legit fans. People that want to see a show, not just that arrive for the hits. In my opinion there is no point in going to a concert to see the artist play meaningless “Hits.” You can hear them on the radio every day. Bruce’s songs have substance and meaning and the people, all around seemed to understand this. My Uncle and I were standing around wondering how many people in the crowd actually, “Get it.”


There was a “Dark cloud Risin” as we made our way into the show and soon enough the skies opened up. It poured and poured but luckily Mom and I were in a food line prior to the show, when everyone in the stadium got soaked! There was thunder, lightning and crazy pouring rain. Our ponchos would have done us no justice under these extreme conditions.


Bruce eventually came out around 9:00 and jumped into, “Summertime Blues.” He typically plays a cover for his first song based on what is going on in each city. In the parking lot we collectively thought the opening might be, “Who Stopped the Rain” by Creedence. He didn’t open with it but he did play it later into the set.


Mom and I had a great time. It had been a while since just Mom and I were seated together at a show. Last show I brought JD, and many of the prior shows, I went with Cauf. Over the years Mom has admitted that Bruce is her fav. She knew almost every song he played and there were some obscure songs on this night. Our butt’s didn’t hit the chairs one time throughout the 2.5-hour show. We went about 25 rows up to spend the encore songs with my family. Badlands(Moms favorite), Long Walk Home, Murder Inc, Rosilita, She’s the One, This Bus Stops; he played some great songs on this night. It was one of the five best shows I’ve seen and the weather only added to the ambiance.


I drove more in these two weeks than I had in month’s prior. So much the I woke up one day after and couldn’t move my right hand! I had to go to the doctors it hurt so much! We had an excellent vacation and I wouldn’t have changed a thing. From Moosehead to the Cape and everything in between. As much fun as we had, I think you guys were happy to be home in your own beds and back in your own routine. We’ve been back now for a week and a half and its as if we never left. JD, found out who his first grade teacher is, we signed Ad up for a few days in pre-school, and I am back at work. Funny how things work.


Bruce Setlist:


Setlist:
Summertime Blues
Tenth Avenue Freeze-out
Radio Nowhere
Lonesome Day
The Promised Land
Spirit in the Night
Tunnel of Love
Little Latin Lupe Lu
Does This Bus Stop at 82nd Street?
Hungry Heart
Who'll Stop the Rain
Youngstown
Murder Incorporated
She's the One
Livin' in the Future
Mary's Place
The Rising
Last to Die
Long Walk Home
Badlands
* * *
I'm Goin' Down
Jungleland
Born to Run
Glory Days
Dancing in the Dark
American Land
Rosalita

Round One

Round One of our vacation is officially complete!

Last week it started out with you boys and Mom going north to spend time with my cousins, Aunt and Uncle. You all went to the beach on Friday in Brunswick. All of my cousins on the Weafer side and all of their kids! 8 Kids in total. Mom said that it was quite a sight to see all of the two year olds playing so well together! She said that at one point each two year old was digging the same hole with no fussing or crying at all!

The next day, my cousin Dick and his wife Heather were swimming he peaks island race in Portland. This was much more than just a race for them as it marked the first time Heather was able to race again since overcoming cancer. It was extremely emotional for both of them and they finished strong too! Dick finished 30-something out of 140 and Heather was in the sixties! Both of you and Mom went to Portland to cheer them on with Kim and Don’s families. Heather and Dick made the front page of the Portland Herald’s sports page the day before this race! The article talked about their long journey through cancer, ect. Pretty exciting!

Mom said that you both had a great time up there. JD, you played with Sam and Lily quite a bit and Adam was kept busy with the other younger kids. You all went back to my Uncle’s place in Brunswick after the race to further celebrate.

I wish I could have been there, but my family has been very busy with my grandparents lately. After Grammies fall, a few weeks ago, we have all pulled together to visit her and stay with Grampie. Uncle Don has been staying with Grampie non-stop since Grammie fell. We have all realized that Grampie has Alzheimer’s and can’t remember too much anymore. If people aren’t with him, he doesn’t really know what’s going on and sometimes even where he is.

Anyway, this is where I was on this weekend, staying with Grampie. Kim and Don stayed with him the prior few nights while Dick and Heather trained for their race. Uncle Don relived me on Sunday and I met you both up in Gray and Grandie’s.

I have to say that I enjoyed staying with Grampie for a few nights. I haven’t stayed over night at that house in over 20 years. It kind of brought those childhood memories back. It was hard to see Grampie in so much disarray, but it also felt good to help him out. I was able to visit Grammie about four times during my stay. At one point I wheeled her out of her room and we hung out, outside for quite a while. We had a great conversation, pieces of which I think I will remember, even if she doesn’t.

The past few months have been most hard on my Uncle and Mom. They have been working around the clock to see that their parent’s needs are met. My cousin Kim, put this schedule together for some of the grandparents to pitch in and help. I think that it was necessary to give Nana and Donnie a break and I know that we were all happy to help out.

SO, Monday morning we left for Moosehead Lake. Dick, Heather and Finn met us in Greenville around noon to get the food shopping out of the way. Prior to meeting them, the four of us had a nice lunch outside on the deck of a restaurant on the Lake. While we were eating a Pontoon Plant buzzed right above us and landed just out on the lake. It looked like it was close enough to touch!

We eventually got to camp and set up tents, put away food, and got settled. It wasn’t long before JD was jumping off the dock into the water! Adam, you were little more tentative but you and Finn made your way in from shore.



Taking the boat over to the island is kind of like walking out to the field at Fenway. Each time is equally amazing, going by familiar docks, seeing the wildlife almost immediately, and pulling into the dock to see the camp for the first time in while. It felt good to be back.

We played in the water for most of this day and were in bed by about 10:00. This was Adam’s first time sleeping in a tent. The last two years that Adam has been up there, we’ve slept inside the camp. Adam, you took to the tent wonderfully. We all slept on air mattresses and inside the tent together. Every night it rained, but only once during the day. I had forgotten how much I enjoy sleeping outside. There is nothing like it, especially in the rain.

During our time on the island we went moose hunting (just looking), explored the backside of the lagoon, and swam and swam and swam!

JD and I made a boat out of sticks that we found on one of our expeditions. We planned ahead and brought rubber bans

to hold the sticks together. The finished product looked pretty cool and it actually floated properly too!

Mom scratched her itch to water ski. We were able to take the boat out to the big lake on one gloomy day. Sure enough Mom got up on her skis right away and off she went. Adam, JD, Dick, Finn and I had a great time watching and encouraging her on!

As is always the case, the adults had great conversation after some drinks at night when the kids were asleep. Dick and Heather are great sounding boards for us, and I hope us for them. It’s nice to have spent so much time with family this summer as our family is going through some changes.
Gramp and Gram are getting older and need more assistance, and all of our little two year olds are getting older and need less. JD said to me many times this week, “Dad, I love this place.” I hope you do and I hope that when Mom and I get old like G and G that you and you kids come here to experience the conversation and inspiration that it continually offers.

Lobsters and a Haircut

It’s the middle of July and we have greatly enjoyed the last two weeks.

We started things off with a Forth of July cookout at our house. This was also a “Welcome Back” for True’s as they returned from Colorado. They came back at a good time as we have spent every Forth with them since we’ve lived in Maine and it was nice to have this year be no different.

People started to arrive around 1:00. We decided the prior day that we would invite people to BYOL, Bring Your Own Lobsters! Everyone did just that. We had quite a few creepy red bugs before it was all said and done and tons and tons of other food. It looked like we had enough food to feed an army.

You guys, Caden, and Lily were completely interested in the lobsters. Chad, the resident lobster expert, took them out and allowed you all to touch them. Adam, you said, “That’s really scary.” Everyone

got a kick out of that! Chad is an excellent cook. He cooked out lobsters and make excellent looking lobster rolls for everyone else. JD, you didn’t want to try lobster this year. You said that you tried it last year and didn’t like it; maybe next year you’ll give it another shot??

We didn’t have fireworks this year, but we DID have a ROCKET! Chad brought at rocket from home. It was pretty neat; he set it up on our stone well thing, backed up and lit it up! It went SO high into the air that we all lost sight of it. We saw it go up high, disappear, and that was it! We all took about 15 minutes to search the neighborhood for it, but came up empty! It served its purpose though; all of the kids were totally impressed by it. I think the adults were too.

After dinner we played a few games of PIG on the basketball court. JD, this is your new favorite game. Everyone was excited to play. Later I gave the kids a ride around the yard on the lawn mower, per Lily’s request (we must be Mainers now). As it got later in the evening, Mom broke out some small sparklers. Lily and you both had fun with these and ended up lighting all of three boxes in about a half hour.

It was a great day all around and nice to have the True’s back in the fold. Carli in known for making some pretty cool dessert cakes and on this day she didn’t disappoint. An American Flag cake, check it out:




After everyone left the four of us decided to turn on the Boston fireworks “Pregame.” As we watched the build up, Adam went into the kitchen and said, “Hungry for Chicken.” We had so many extra chicken wings from earlier provided to us by Chad F. We all agreed with your suggestion, Adam dug in first! After we filled our bellies it was about 10:00, clearly way passed bedtime. Mom and I decided that we would let you both stay up to watch he fireworks on TV as it was only about a half hour away. Before I knew it, it was about midnight when I woke up on the couch to the three you snoring away. It appeared none of us would see those the fireworks this year.

The next day we all slept until about 9:00. What a nice treat and a well-deserved long nights sleep. We arrived on Plum Island in Newburyport around 10:30. Funny, this is where Mom and I used to come before we were married. It has changed quite a bit. I remembered it having more of a beach. We met Colin, Carli, and Lily and on this day, we had the beach to ourselves.

Colin and I worked with all of you kids to build a BIG sandcastle. The pictures I took of it really don’t do it justice. Lily helped Colin make little castles to decorate the top of our big mound-castle, JD added some height to the castle and had much fun making tunnels from one end to the other, and Adam had to be stopped from smashing JD’s tunnels! Mom and Car had some nice catch up talk to take care of while we constructed our caste. This beach had a pretty cool rock jetty that you both enjoyed walking on.

After the beach we went to Leanna and Adams house for another small cookout. Adam made some chicken and burgers and Mom brought her yummy dessert. Adam and Marin spent some time playing in her schoolhouse tent, while JD, Adam and I played kickball around the yard. We also discovered that they have peaches, apples, grapes, and blackberries growing in their yard!

Sunday rolled around and we FINALLY bought a couch. JD, you know how much I disliked our old couch. Mom and I bought it about 10 years ago, and it looked like it was about 20 years old! The couch we bought is fine for now, Mom and I both like it very much. We also rearranged almost our entire house on this day. Adam, you took a much needed (and appreciated by us) FIVE hour nap! This allowed us a lot of time to get things situated!

Last week brought the beginning of, “Hot Summer Nights” in South Berwick center. Every Thursday from the beginning of July through the end of August the town has a band of some sort play for free at night. Last Thursday was one of our favorite local guys, Slaid Cleaves! He was born
around here but makes a living in Texas signing mostly Folk/Country/Rock music. He was great on this night. Adam, you put on a show for everyone by shaking your thing for his first few songs. You both got your faces painted later in the evening. Adam, you got a plane on one cheek and a truck on the other. JD, you got the, “Incredible Hulk” on your cheek! Slaid was so good on this night; we enjoyed the show with Kevin and Jessie from down the street. JD even got Slaid's autograph!

Saturday of last weekend, we spent at Ocean Park. Mom really wanted the four of us to spend this day together and we figured Ocean Park would be a great place to relax. Mom says that we always have perfect days here and Saturday was no different. We arrived at about 9:30 and immediately set up camp as the tide was headed out. There were very few people on the beach when we arrived and we were able to just sit and enjoy the beach for a bit.

After hanging out in front of the Billow House, playing in the sand, we took a walk down to the creek. Once again NO sand dollars, but you guys both had so much fun in the fast moving water. JD, you brought your boogie board down and rode it from one end to the other. Adam, you spent most of your time jumping off the sides of the sand into the creek. The current was pretty strong but you insisted upon walking through it by yourself, not holding my hand. We must have spent and hour and a half at the creek alone.

We left the beach around 4:00 and headed home. You both conked out in the backseat by the time we hit the highway. Later that night I went out in Portsmouth with Chad and Colin and you both went…..to sleep!

Yesterday, Sunday, we all slept until 8:00. I was very happy about this! In the morning Adam and I went outside to hit some golf balls. Adam, you clearly are going to swing golf clubs and baseball bats as a lefts. This made things difficult for you as JD’s small clubs are a set of right-handed clubs. This didn’t stop you though; we were out there for a while!

Soon enough I was off to play golf with Chris, Chad and Chad for Chris’ birthday. Adam, you wanted to come with me so badly saying, “Addie come golf, Addie come golf?” You were quite upset when I pulled off. You and Mom brought JD to a birthday party for Owen. Mom said that all of the kids came running up to her car, as they were so happy to see JD. Mom said that it was quite the sight to see.

We all met at the Hamers house for a cookout late in the day. The boys played 18 holes in about 5.5 hours and the ladies and kids, along with some other people, were waiting for us back at the house. It was a perfect day for golf and nice to see everyone at night.

Throughout the course of this week, we also cut Adams hair. We sat him on the bar stool on the deck and gave him some chocolate. This might have been the only thing we could have given him to ensure he would sit still for a few minutes. Along with the chocolate, I distracted Ad while mom trimmed his hair. Adam, as you saw you’re hair being cut off, you had a concerned look on your face and your said, “Addie’s hair??”

"It Won't Work"

Mom has started her summer routine with you both and has packed up the weekdays with all sorts of fun stuff. Mondays typically she hangs out with Leanna, Marin and others, Tuesday JD’s friend Regan comes over for the day, Wednesday you guys are hanging with another one of Mom’s pals and her two boys, and Thursday’s is JD’s day with Gavin!

A few weeks ago, you two were shipped up to Grandie and PopPops once again for Friday night. I had a year end celebration for work in Concord, NH. My office was the top performing office for FY 08, vs. last year’s numbers and the number two revenue generating office over all. The company thought it would be a good idea to put all of us up in a hotel and have an awards ceremony and casino night. A good time was had by all and Mom and I were out late on that Friday.

The next morning I was off to Grandpa’s and Mom back to Berwick. She was nice enough to take my place at the T Ball trophy ceremony in town. She handed out all of the trophies to the kids and was able to collect some of the last money for the batathon. After this she went up to Gray to join you both on Saturday.

Grandpa and I met my Uncle Jeff and cousin Jeff for a Sox game on this Saturday afternoon. My uncle and I were talking over Easter and we decided to put something like this together so that we weren’t just bumping into each other on holidays. Grandpa and Uncle Jeff both scored tickets from clients at work. Grandpa got great seats about 25 rows from the field and oddly enough there were two empty seats next to us. I think they were the only two empty seats in the whole place. We hollered over the Jeff and Jeff and they were able to sit with us for the games entirety.

Grandpa and I went into the park around 1:30 for a 4:00 start. He said that he has never been to Fenway that early for a game before. We went to Boston Billiards and hung out there until the game started. We all had an awesome time. It was great to talk with my cousin and Uncle about stuff. We mostly talked about my Grandpa. Jeff and Dad told Jeffrey and I some stories that we hadn’t heard before. We got some great laughs and it was nice to celebrate those memories with family. In one of my last entries I said that a few weeks ago I had one of those “Perfect days.” This day had that same type of feeling for me. The day just flowed nice and easy. It was very comfortable and nice to spend some one on one time with my Dad prior to the game. It hardly mattered at all that the Cardinals smoked the Sox. It was actually probably one of the worst played games this season!

The next day, after a short trip to see Nana, I was headed back up North and you three were heading south. You both had a nice time at Grandie's. You took out the boat and played around quite a bit.

During this week Adam, you have started to use the toilet before jumping in the tub. You’ve been so proud of yourself and at this point it’s become your before bath ritual. The other night you couldn’t seem to go and you just stood there confused for a minute. You eventually gave up saying, “It won’t work!”

Unfortunately we had some bad news this week. Grammie (who is 88) was standing on the toilet seat cleaning her bathroom when she slipped off and broke her shoulder and her hip on her left side. Grampie was frantic and called Nana who came down and called 911. This happened on a Thursday evening. I got the call from Auntie Meg when I was playing golf with Chris and Chad.

The next morning I took off work and went up to help Nana as best I could. We spent the day in the hospital with my cousin Kim, Uncle Don and Aunt Cathy. I feel so bad for both Grammie and Grampie. Grammie will be in rehab for a long time and Grampie is learning not to blame himself.

For a few years when I worked in Newton, MA I spent a lot of time with G and G. I played more golf with Grampie in one season than I ever have before or since. I ate lunch with them often and truly got to know them both. Not just as Grandparents but as people. I remember driving home after a visit and realizing that they are people just like us, but that happen too much older. The interests they have haven’t changed too much since they were 20 or 30. Their sense of humor isn’t too different, and they have similar opinions, they simply got old. It must suck to get old. You don’t “feel” too much different mentally but your body just starts to break down.

Anyway, she is in a rehab facility as of yesterday and we’ve all got a bit of a long road ahead.

While I was helping out Nana, you boys, Mom and As, spend the day at Untie Megs and the night at Grandpa’s. Grandma and Grandpa were nice enough to take you in with no notice and you guys had a good time. Grandpa and JD practiced throwing marshmallows in each other’s mouths, and Ad reeked havoc as usual!

The next day you came to Nana’s too. You were both very well behaved. We played outside with the Frisbee and baseballs and downstairs with Nintendo. JD, you wanted to try sleeping on the couch on the porch and must to everyone’s surprise, you made it though the night out there. It must have been fun! I was able to sneak in some time with Cauf and Mikey late Saturday night too.

We all left early Sunday and were able to enjoy the day very much. JD and I have been playing “PIG” quite a bit lately with the basketball. Adam, you try and try to shoot your ball high enough into the hoop but you’re not quite there yet. JD, we have done shots standing on one foot, with leaves and sticks on our heads, we’ve used Adams trucks as props, and many other funny ways to shoot the ball.

JD, you also bought a blow up pool recently with some of your birthday money. It’s pretty large for a kid’s pool and its come in very handy during this heat. You helped Mom set it up, which took a while. Adam you still enjoy wearing your swimmy arm things around the house for hours at a time, usually while sporting one of your pairs of sunglasses. It’s quite the sight to see!



Its funny, we live busy lives and we all know that, but over the past two weeks I was able to spend time with my Dad’s side of the family and my Mom’s for two extremely different reasons. Interestingly enough the feeling I had in both circumstances was similar. I can’t really explain it. It was more than just love (a word that means a lot but is overused). It was a sense of obligation and belonging. I remember years ago talking with my Uncle Don over a cigar. We were talking about the last stages of life and he said, “In the end, all you have is your family.” He didn’t say this in a negative way at all, more stating that family will always be there through whatever is tossed at you. At that time I discarded that comment. Back then I talked to my friends about most things, traveled with them and knew them inside and out. Over the years I have seen small signs of what Donnie was saying. I think back on that conversation and I wonder if he might be right.

"Burgers"

They did it! The Celtics won their first championship in 22 years last night! It was a long time coming for the most decorated franchise in basketball history but it finally happened. The C's have gone through some tough, boring, disappointing years. As I've said many times, I love basketball. Its my favorite sport, and I see you both enjoying it as much as I do, but the Celtics (and the NBA) has been so hard to watch for such a long time, I truly lost interest. This year was different.

The Celtics have proven to be a classy, unselfish organization with some main players that kids can actually look up to. KG, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen seem to be the real deal and lucky to have found each other this year. The playoff series brought old school basketball to the forefront and completely sucked in New England. I enjoyed The Finals more than any of the Patriots Superbowls and almost as much as the Red Sox World Series victories. It brought back memories of cheering on Larry and boys with my family on Sunday afternoons. Eating meals on the porch and listening to the neighbors cheer on the Green as we were doing the same.

JD, I have allowed you to stay up to watch portions of each game. One major disappointment of the playoffs in the NBA is the start time; 8:30 or 9:00 at night. Way to late for kids of any age, never mind adults. We got into it big time. Adam, you have a Rajon Rondo jersey, JD has KG, and have Paul Pierce. We looked high and low for these shirts but finally came away with a couple. Ad, you didn't make it to any of these games, but you were able to watch some pre-game action. JD, you and I had so much fun watching together. You have excellent questions all the time and you're so fun to cheer with. I find myself looking forward to when you guys get older and we can really enjoy the hometown teams together. Mom has taken an interest in the Celts for their playoff run too. She even mentioned that she enjoys watching basketball more than any other sport. News to me, but I'll take it!

The last two weeks consisted of some fun events. Two weeks ago we went to David's birthday down at Auntie Megs. JD, you ran off to play with Matthew, Corey and Mike's son, and Addie played with the younger kids, mostly taking turns riding Dave's new big wheel. He got some pretty cool stuff. We gave him some cars and a monster truck that you both picked out.

The weather has been very nice overall and Adam has been to the beach with Mom about four or five times each week. Adam, you are becoming very comfortable in the water, going in until the water is up to your waist. You enjoy chasing the seagulls, pointing out planes, and digging away. Mom has done an excellent job making friends with other moms who has kids your age. You are rarely alone on your trips to beach or to that playground, another place you and mom frequent while JD is in school.

A few weekends ago, I was excited to have my annual boys weekend away with my friends. The boys from Millis and I have been going away each year for the last five during the first week in June. Funny, these guys who I used to see every day of the week for years and years, now have to plan special time to get together. We're all married and most of us now have kids or are in the process of making a kid or two.

This year we went to Chris' families place on the Saco River in North Conway. JD, you call Chris, "Big Chris" as we have another friend "Chris" in Dover. We were lucky enough to have a beautiful weekend on a stunning spot on the river. It was almost too good for us as we don't do a whole heck of a lot during these weekends.

While I was away and Mom had some people to the house, you boys spent some time at the cabin with Grandie and PopPop. As always, you both had a great time and were all tuckered out upon your arrival home. Not as tuckered out as Grandie and Pop I'm sure! They took you guys to the Wildlife Park to see, Moose, Bear, a Bobcat and you even fed the deer. It actually sounds just like the Trailside Museum, a place my Grammie and Grandpie took me when I was young. Grandie and PopPop also took you out on the boat to the sandbar for the first time this season. You got a nice warm day and spent quite a bit of time in the water!

Last weekend was great. Mom went down to Massachusetts for Colleens baby shower. I knew she would be out all day long as she hasn't seen Colleen in a long time. Our day started nice and early with a T-Ball game for JD. We were at the field at 10:00 for a quick three innings. JD, you had your best hit of the year on this day. A nice rip to left that almost took off a little guys head that wasn't paying attention. After your game, you asked if we could spend some time at the school playground, and that's what we did. You brought your soccer ball to kick around and shoot some hoops with and Adam spent most of the time climbing away on the play set.

After a good two hours at the playground we were all getting hungry. As we were walking back to the car, I said, "Who's hungry." Adam piped up right away saying, "I'm hungry for a burger!" JD and I got a kick out of this! Needless to say we went to the market and got some jalapeno/cheddar burgers to cook up on the grill. They were so good. Good call, Ad.

The rest of the day consisted of playing soccer, basketball, wiffe ball, baseball, airplane making, and catch. JD, you can really catch the ball now. I had the most enjoyable time playing with you on this day. At the end of this day we read books on JD's bed before you guys dozed off to sleep. We read, "Head to Toe" and "Harold and the Purple Crayon." At night before bed for the last two weeks or so, you each pick a book and I pick one too (usually a short one) and we cuddle up on JD's bed to read all three. Ad is always on my left and JD on the right. You both pay such good attention and I try not to skip too many pages (kidding).

This was one of those days, a perfect day. I thoroughly enjoyed playing with, and teaching you both on this day. Everything clicked, and we were all on the same page. I could tell that you both enjoyed this day for what it was too. I have many fond memories of my childhood, and remember having days that I didn't want to end. I remember that feeling. Food tastes better, every song on the radio is a good one, and connections feel tight. Thats what this day was for me. As you guys went to bed on this night, I didn't want the day to end.

Adam has reached another milestone this week. Ad, you have been sleeping in your big boy bed for the last six nights! Its a big, comfortable, double bed and you can't get enough of it. Just like JD used to do, you call us to come get you after your nap or when you wake up in the morning, you won't get out on your own, and that is fine by me!

We winded out the weekend with Fathers Day. You both gave me home made cards, the kind I like the best and Mom made me pancakes in the morning. For lunch the weather wasn't great but we decided to go to Portsmouth to see the boats and grab some lunch on the water. We went to the Stockpot on this day and sat down to what was a very fun meal, but the food was disappointing. More importantly we were able go out on the deck after our meal and take a look at the tug boats (in the picture on the left), the speedboats and Adam enjoyed the, "Big bridge."

JD, you finished school yesterday. I truly can't believe that it's over. I feel like we just put you on the bus a few weeks ago. You are given one of three grades for every, "Subject." You received the highest grade on every option that there was from academic stuff to social interaction. You've only been out for one day and Mom has a bunch of play dates already booked for the next few weeks!

The summer is here..

Sun Still Shining

This weekend was Memorial Day weekend. We’ve had a run on nice weather lately and this weekend didn’t disappoint. Saturday we had JD’s batathon to attend. The batathon essentially helps to raise money to Berwick Baseball. The kids pledge to get a certain amount of points and the points are tallied up based on how far the hit the ball. We had our pictures taken first and then we were off to the batathon! JD, you scored the most points on your team. You had 8, 10 point shots out of 10. You did such a great job taking your time before swinging. When one of the other boys got a good hit and heard him say, “I can hit just like JD!”

Later in the day Gavin came over and we played outside for a good portion of the day. Basketball, hide and seek, croquet and guns. At night Caden, Chad, Ashley and Chad came over for dinner and to watch the Celtics. Chad and I took on you and Gavin in a game of two on two basketball and we won by quite a large margin! Mom took Caden, Gavin, JD, and Adam down to feed the horses carrots. Gavin had been asking if he could feed the horses ever since he arrived on this day, and Chad mentioned that Caden really likes horses.

Afterwards we ordered pizza and got ready for the game. I have had as much fun watching the Celtics this year as I have in a long time. I have enjoyed them as much as the Pats and the Sox as of recent. This was a nice relaxing evening that we all enjoyed very much. Are thoughts were with the Hamer’s as they were expecting their baby over a week ago! They didn’t attend anything this weekend as Tara is literally waiting to pop!

JD had Gavin sleep over on this night, and they had both told us that they would be up all night! By the time 8:00 rolled around, Gav was conked out! JD, you came down to let us know that the trees outside his window were scaring him! Chad and Ash were still around at this point and mom and I decided to let you stay up to watch the first half of the game. JD, you asked question after question about basketball, and we had a great time hanging out with you.

You have been playing a lot of basketball lately. I have come home from work on more than one occasion to see you outside by yourself shooting at the hoop. It reminds me of me when I was younger. I would play basketball to relax myself, a few times each day.

The next day the five of us were excited to make our first real trip to the beach this season. We woke up to the beautiful sun shining in the morning and it didn’t take us long to pack up the car and get going! We were also excited to meet Grandpa, Grandma, Liv and Dave at Long Sands on this morning.

It was SO refreshing to see you all running and jumping, playing in the sand and getting wet in the water. David and Livy were running around everywhere! They were not shy of the water either! Dave just kept walking and walking toward the water and into the water. I think if we had swimmy things on his arms he would still be going! He really enjoyed the seagulls saying, “Go see, seagulls” over and over and over.

Livy was the same way. She wanted to spend all of the time near the water. Ad, you and Livy seem to gravitate toward each other when we all get together. This day was no different; I had fun spending time with both of you in the water.

Grandpa and Grandpa had the idea of bringing your cousins on this day and a great idea it was. I hope they continue to do this throughout the summer. They took such good care of Dave and Liv. I think Dave spent the latter half of the day cuddling up to Grandpa when he began to get tired.

Grandma and Grandpa weren’t able to make your birthday the weekend prior and were happy to give you your presents at the beach!

JD, you also had a nice weekend with Gavin. Gavin is always very respectful of Adam and even Asbury. After Gavin went home, Adam woke up asked immediately for Gavin. “Gavin, home?” He has spent a lot of time at our house over the past two years and JD, you have spent a good amount of time with his family too.

Monday was Memorial Day and we went to Chad and Caden’s for a 12:00 cookout. Once again we were granted a beautiful day by Mother Nature. There was about 30 pounds of meat at Chad’s on this day and no one was shy about digging right in. Chad is a heck of a cook and he showed off some new dishes; I did not object.



Mom was able to get some girl time in with Caden. She enjoyed making a fairy house in the woods out of sticks, leaves, and flowers. Mom remarked afterwards how it was nice to have helped Caden with this small task.

I brought my glove and actually played some adult catch with Chad and Chad. I felt good to throw a few curve balls again, and mess around with some (poor looking) knuckle balls. We are hoping to get down to the field later in the summer to make use of the pitching machine!

We enjoyed the company and weather at Chads for almost five hours on this day. We left just in time to make JD’s T- ball game. The kids on the team were in rare form that evening. I think everyone was feeling the effects of a long day and longer weekend. At one point Ethan put on a pink helmet, and used Anna’s pink bat and said, “I’m a batting princess.” It really cracked me (and everyone else) up! This seemed to set the tone for the evening. Kind of a whacky end to our Memorial Day Weekend!

"Turtlie"

The day following your kid’s party was your family party! On this Sunday, Meg and her family, Nana, Grampie and Brick, and Grandy came over to celebrate your birthday…again!

We lucked out again with sunny weather. Truthfully, if we were going to have bad weather it would rather have had it on this day rather than the prior. I don’t know what we would have done with all of those kids inside!



This day had an exciting start to it. Mom and I decided to get you a turtle and aquarium for your birthday! Mom said that you had mentioned a turtle a few weeks ago and she thought it would make a nice pet. Before anyone arrived, you and Ad were playing outside and mom and I set up your turtle and his new home in the playroom. When we were done, we called you both in where you found a blanket covering what would reveal itself to be your turtle in its new home. JD, as you took off the blanket you had smile from ear to ear and you said, “OOH my goooshhh, a turtle!” Then you asked, “Do I get to take care of it? Is it mine.”? Adam, you couldn’t believe that there was a turtle inside the playroom! You were saying, “Daddy, turtle?” After much deliberation you came up with a very creative name for her, “Turtlie.”



Later in the day when everyone arrived, JD was once again, very patient waiting you open his gifts. We had yummy BBQ food that mom and I got at the Meat House. Chicken, sausage, burgs, and some other stuff. We love the Meat House and on this day the food didn’t disappoint.

After dinner it was time to open your gifts. You got some cool stuff from everyone and were appreciative of it all. You started feeling a bit ill toward the end of the day, but held it together well.
Grandy commented that you didn’t seem yourself by the end and I thought the same. We found that you may have had strep throat, and got you on medicine the next day.

JD, you had a nice time with your cousins on this day. I heard you talking with David, who was a little shy, but opening up a lot more each time he comes over. You were asking him if he wanted to come see your new turtle and of course he did. He spend quite a bit of time with the turtle after this introduction!

Ad, you couldnt wait to eat the cup cakes, not even for us to take the candles off!