The One With The New Year's Eve Game f Life

This New Year's Eve we started a new tradition....though a little reluctantly. At Bri's suggestion, we decided to play the game of Life.

It was long - as usual - and it involved lots of spinning. But, we had a blast.

Bri ended 2018 by coming in first with 4.25 million

Mom came is second with 3.75 million

I was third with 3.02 million

Kiff came in fourth at 2.7 million.


It was definitely a fun way to wrap up the year. Thanks 2018 for being a great year!

The One With The Return of Mary Poppins

Yesterday, we saw an amazing movie....the Return of Mary Poppins. Now, I know what you're thinking. It was Disney and of course it was going to be amazing.

However, I am one of those people who is always wary of the sequel 50 years after the fact. After all, Disney's Return to Oz was, well, a dud....so I didn't know what to expect.

But, I was not disappointed. It remained true to the original story, while updating it by moving onto a new generation, with Michael and Jane grown up. The plot was realistic and made it engaging and the acting was superb. Emily Blunt did a great job playing Mary Poppins and the connections they made to the original movie was clever. 

I loved how they changed they focused on the males being lamp lighters in this one, honoring that idea that chimney sweeps were for the original. The bike riding and the dancing of the lighters was brilliant.

Even better was the homage paid to old-time Disney as both Angela Lansbury and Dick Van Dyke made guest appearances.

Definitely a four star classic.

The One With Peace on Earth on Christmas Day

Ahhhh, we've finally hit it....that moment when we have a little peace and quiet on Christmas day. The in between time where Bri and Kiff are playing video games and enjoying.

Thanks for a fabulous Christmas season. Such a wonderful time of year!

The One With Christmas Ideas for Next Year

Here's a few ideas to try to plan for next Christmas season....we're adding them here to remember.


1. Winter Solstice day in Toppsfield or Ipswich (we tried, but it was pouring when we planned to go)

2. Heritage Museum Lights

3. Sturbridge Village Winter by Candlelight (loved it last year)

4. Watch Man who Invented Christmas

5. Christmas Carol at Hanover Theater

The One With the Christmas Season

What we did to celebrate Christmas this year:


• Enchanted Village Trip

• Watched Christmas Marathon

• Went to Grinch movie the day for Thanksgiving

• Created on wreath through Audobon

• Christmas Tree Lighting Downtown

 • Cookie Day 

• Road trip to lights in Lynnfield

The One With the Christmas Movies updated

Here is the updated list of Christmas movies we watched this Christmas Season

1. Elf 2. Miracle on 34th Street (new one) 3. Miracle on 34th Street (old one) 4. Fred Claus 5. Christmas with the Kranks 6. Christmas Vacation 7. Muppet Christmas Carol 8. Christmas Carol (with Patrick Stewart) 9. New Grinch Movie 10. Star
11. White Christmas
12. Christmas Carol (1951, Alistair Sims)
13. Mickey's Christmas Carol

The One With the Merry Christmas

Here is wishing everyone peace, love, joy, health, and happiness on this Christmas and in the year ahead!

Merry Christmas 2018

The One With Basketball Practice

This week featured a fun basketball practice. Kiff has been working on his roundball and he's having a blast. He has taken to the sport, which is great to see (after all it is my favorite), so it has been great to see him out on the court.

The One With The Christmas Movies

Here is our Christmas Movie List...

1. Elf
2. Miracle on 34th Street (new one)
3. Miracle on 34th Street (old one)
4. Fred Claus
5. Kristmas with the Kranks
6. Christmas Vacation
7. Muppet Christmas Carol
8. Christmas Carol (with Patrick Stewart)
9. New Grinch Movie
10. Star

The One With the Busy November

It has been BUSY!

The One With the Happy Thanksgiving

We had a fun and lively Thanksgiving week this past week.

We had Emmie's family Thanksgiving on last weekend.

We had my family Thanksgiving this Thursday.

We had watched the Macy's Day Parade.

Emmie went to Black Friday.

It was a busy...but fun Thanksgiving.

The One With Flag Football

Today was the last flag football game of the season. Tough loss - actually a mercy loss - but what a great year. The D-Pack was quite a crew....and one I will always remember.

The One With Kiff's Tenth Birthday

It is hard to believe that the era of single digits finally came to an end in our house. It really does. It seems like only yesterday, our two kiddos were toddlers, ambling around the house. In fact, Kiff was but two when I first began recording events for our family in this blog.



But now - well - ten years have passed. I can remember where I was ten years ago (although not as good as Emmie).

It is hard to believe a decade went by that fast. But it did!


We celebrated in memorable fashion.

1. We had a breakfast of pancakes. I made them of course.

2. We then went on the traditional scavenger hunt.

3. We went to the movies to see Venom (which Kiff wanted to see). It was a pretty unique movie.

4. We ate at the Cheesecake Factory

5. We came back and had cake and presents

6. We got a snack at China Villa

7 We watched Dead Pool (if you can believe that...though we had to fast forward a bit)

All and all a good day.

Happy Tenth Birthday Kiff. We love you.

 

The One Where The Red Sox Go To The World Series

To nights ago, the Red Sox defeated the Houston Astros to advance to the world series. It is the first time they have been since 2013, and the fourth time they've gone since 2004. And to think there was was a time when I wondered if they would ever go again.

Congratulations Red Sox!

The One With Pioneer Village

Last night, we had the chance to take part in a wonderful opportunity. We went to a Lantern Walk at Pioneer Village in Salem. The walk was part of a fundraiser for one of the local schools in Salem, but it was also a fun way to get into the Halloween season. It was a blast.

The One With the BC Field Hockey Team

This past weekend, we had a wonderful experience. We went to the BC Field Hockey game against UNH

It was the first time I've seen a field hockey game and it was a quaint and fun experience. We decided to go because you couldn't beat the price - free - and also because Bri is playing field hockey this year.

It was a neat time because it was a small group, but we were up close to the field. It was great!!!  And BC won 6-0.

The One With Open House

This past week, we also had the chance to go to HMRS open house. It was an amazing experience.

We actually got to live the life of a 6th grader at the school and follow their schedule, which is something they do at my school as well. I now know why parents complain about the speed of it....it does make for a choppy, albeit quick night. But it worked.

However, the big thing we learned was that Bri has some amazing teachers. They all were passionate about what they teach. And I could make a connection with each teacher and someone I teach with as well.

Here is hoping she is off to a long and memorable career at HMRS.

The One Were BC returns to the Top 25

As a BC fan, this has been a long time coming. After the BC football team was ranked number 2 about 12 years ago, football has been like an frozen tundra - cold, lonely, and not very exciting.

However, the 2018 team has come a long way. They have played tough, blown out opponents and surprised others. And earlier this week, they made all BC fans and alumni's dream come true.

The actually returned to the top 25 earlier this week...which is awesome.

Here is a picture of the ranking taken earlier today.

The One With Ed Sheeran

Earlier this week, the four of us had the opportunity to see the Ed Sheeran concert. What a blast that was!

We went down to Gilette Stadium this past Saturday and took the epic journey into the parking lot, which was an adventure into itself. But, they were well organized and had cars parked quickly.

We then had an interesting turn of events in Gilette Stadium. They were so nitpicky about a bag coming in that we had to throw it away. I also heard people had to throw away their purses. A little too extreme if you ask me.

Zoinks.

Despite that setback, the concert was great. Ed was quite a performer and he engaged with the audience wonderfully. Perhaps may favorite engagement was when he particularly talked to two specific members of the audience and asked them to join in and have fun - the people who were dragged along by girlfriends and the Super Dads, like his own, who were making sure their kids were safe and having fun at the concert.

What a great night! If you have chance to see him, make it a date!

The One With Number Zero

Cool Moment This Week....


As a Red Sox fan, it is extremely rare that you get to witness something that makes history. Something that is one of a kind. Something that has never been done before.

But this week, that happened.


Brandon Phillips, a 37 year old player (who has been an all star in the past) was called up to the Red Sox. He became the first Sox player EVER (yes EVER) to wear the number 0

This cool moment was captured on WEEI (I also got a picture while I watched NESN).  The Weei photo is below....which is pretty neat (a scene after he hit a home run that won the game).

Who'd of think it took more than 100 years to have a number 0. 

The One With The New School Year

Yet another school year begins....And with it another return to first grade. I want too sure what to expect. But. it will be fun.

The One With Back to School Shopping

When mid-August comes, it can only mean one thing. The dreaded time for kids, parents, and teachers alike.


BACK TO SCHOOL SHOPPING


Well, in between breaks of going into our classrooms, that is what Emmie and I did this week with the kids. We went up to New Hampshire and spent times at the outlets shopping.

I was quickly reminded why it is not my favorite pasttime. Zoinks.

First, some of the places were packed. Which is always my favorite thing. My pseudo-claustrophobia strikes when it gets too crowded in stores. At one point in time in a Nike Store I had to move pronto.

Then, Emmie and Bri spent time in the Loft, while Kiff and I literally went to five stores - one of which was a five minute walk away. Good times.


And there was a trip to Justice, where I had to be a fashion consultant....which almost never happens. Kiff's opinions are usually trusted more than mine.

Still, it was a fun and memorable experience...and a traditional way to wind down summer....which I always hope never ends.

The One With Our Trip to Connecticut

This past week, we took our first family trip to Connecticut to stay. It was a lot of fun spending a day in the Constitution State.

The main purpose of the trip was to visit the Mystic Aquarium. It did not disappoint. It had an open concept where people actually walk around and visit different spots, such as a penguin area, beluga whales (they are awesome), stellar sea lions, and even a prehistoric automatron area. It was awesome. The indoor section included a sea lion show as well as many tanks. We had a blast.

We went to Mystic Diner for supper. It was pretty good...though it had a billion choices.

The following day, we went to the Mystic Seaport Museum. Now, this place was FANTASTIC, too. We visited an 18th century fishing village (think Sturbridge by the sea) as well as a Whaling Ship, and viking exhibit. This stop was an unexpected sheer delight. 

Mystic will definitely be on our to do list again. It was simple awesome!!!

 

The One With Emmie's Classroom

Yesterday, we had a fun day visiting Emmie's classroom. It was a great experience. She is heading back to school to teach for the first time - full time - in a while.

She is excited.

It is great to see her in the classroom. All four of us went in to help her set up. The room is going to be great!

The One With A Summer Baseball

One of the highlights of this summer has been Kiff playing summer baseball. It has been a blast.

At first, we were not too sure if he would be able to do it. But when he was asked - and our plans changed - we were able to make it work.

It was a great way to represent the town...and have fun at the same time.

Sure, we were the B team...and we routinely played A teams. And yes, it could be tough. But, the team was a great group of kids...and they always seemed to have fun.

I was able to help out as well...which was also fun.

It was a great opportunity...and a great way to have fun as well. Definitely a big memory. 


 

The One With Becky G

Today, amidst filling a dumpster and going to Elly's birthday, we had a unique opportunity. Kiff learned about Becky G - an actress and pop singer - coming to the Methuen Xfinity store. As a true fan, he really, REALLY wanted to visit her.

So, we took a hike to try to visit her before her stop ended (she was there from 12:00 to 2:00). And, our visit did not disappoint. We got there after the crowd and were first in line to meet the girl who plays in the current movie AXL (and last year's Power Ranger movie). Kiff's eyes were not the only ones that we star struck when we met her....she definitely was glamorous and fun to see. Kiff and Bri had the chance to receive autographs and have their pictures taken with her. She even took a picture with Emmie and me.

What a memorable day...and a brush with greatness.

The One With The Play and Art Show

Yesterday was a busy day in these parts. Bri and Kiff had two different week-long arts camps come to an end. Bri was working at a local art came, taking drawing and printmaking. Kiff was wrapping up a musical and play camp. And what a wrap up it was, with both having culminating roles.

Kiff's went first, with a play performed in front of a live audience. Title How Our Garden Grows, it was a fun 20 minute musical that tells the story of a special garden that can grow, particularly when it is rid of weeds. Kiff, of course, was one of four sun-glass toting weeds that got chased from the garden.

Two hours later, we showed up at Bri's art show which was also phenomenal. The show included three pieces of her art, which were  fun to look at. All and all, it was a fun and engaging end to their week.

The One With The Black Eye

Every now and then you have a memorable moment in sports.

For Kiff, that day was yesterday. He was playing summer baseball when he took a baseball off the face.

Right below his eye.

Fortunately, it was during fielding practice between innings. But, the result was nonetheless painful. He got an instant black eye - always tough - and a headache to boot (which left quickly).

As a result we took our annual pilgrimage to the emergency room. Luckily, there was no concussion....but a unique memory....and a great black eye. It's a doozey.

The One With a Fourth of July First Place

This past week, we made our triumphant return to the annual Highlands Horribles Parade. This is a fun parade that passes by our house every Fourth of July. For two years in a row, we partook in the parade and took a respite last year. However, as the revelers past last year, we realized we missed it.

So this year, we made a triumphant return. Emmie launched a beach party theme group and invited people to join us. And join us they did. We had about 20 people in our group following the theme. What fun.

Although we all had a blast, we did have a special moment in the ceremony as well. Our group won First Place for Best Float in our category based on the wagon we created with a portable beach part. HOW AWESOME!


It was great to be back. And we already have a plan for next year...Highlands All Stars!!!

The One Where Bri Leaves Elemetary School

June 27, 2018

A date that will go down in the history of our family. At 12:08 today, Bri officially became an alumni of Highlands School.

After six long, hard-working, and satisfying years at the elementary school around the corner, Bri officially left school. It is hard to believe she entered school as a timid kindergartner six years ago. Those six years flew by...and now she leaves as a more self-assured and confident (and smart) fifth grader.

We are going to miss those days of walking to school up the street.

Memories fill the mind of

Monster Mashes
Science Fairs
Friday Morning Meeting Assemblies
Chorus Concerts
Recorder Practices
Art Show Nights


A wealth of wonderful memories that we will hold dear forever.

Congratulations Bri on closing the chapter of one adventure and beginning a new chapter in your life.

The One With the First Full Day of Summer

Hooray! It finally arrived. The first day of summer.

Yesterday was the last day of school. It was bittersweet because it was the last day I will be in 8th grade and part of the moving on ceremony. It was very powerful and poignant...and a wonderful sendoff.

Today, however, represented something new....the arrival of summer. Emmie and I took it in. We walked the kids to school, enjoyed breakfast, got a new phone, enjoyed home, and then took the kids to ice cream and Endicott Park.

No better way to start the summer.

Looking forward to a great one.

The One With a Happy Father's Day

Today is Father's Day 2018/

What a wonderful father's day it is. It started off with a fabulous breakfast at C House. And it continued with two games in the playoffs for flag football (we fell just short of making it to the finals game). And what a group we had. It was simply an AWESOME team.

As I reflect on this wonderful day, I realize just how lucky I am.

I have a wonderful family and an amazing wife who made me a DAD.

I have two beautiful kids.

I had a dad who was a great role model for being a Dad.

I am truly blessed.

What a wonderful father's day.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads out there!

The One With the Last Full Week of School

Ah, Saturday. The sweet reward of a week well done!

This past week was the last full week of school....and alas, my last full week of 8th grade for now.

As I look back, I realize that it was a bittersweet week. Filled with finals and an 8th grade dance, I realized that 8th grade truly is one of those monumental years in the lives of students.

Ones they will never forget.

And ones I will never forget, too.

I will miss this group of 8th graders and 8th grade overall....it is such an amazing time of year.

It is with a bit of sadness that I bid a fond farewell to my school home for the past three years....of course, I am returning home to 5th grade next year.

The One With The Flag Football Win

Wow, this past Sunday was a big day. Kiff's team played the undefeated team - the 49ers - in flag football. And was it ever a game.

The 49ers are an awesome team, and their coach was Kiff's former coach when he played for a short time three years ago. He is a good coach and their team is well managed.

Kiff's team got off to a solid start by scoring a touchdown on a deep throw, which was great. A few plays later, Kiff was rushing the quarterback and he threw a ball that was intercepted and brought back for a touchdown.

A series later, Kiff did a similar play where the ball was again intercepted. Although it was not a Pick-6, the team again scored. By half, it was 20-0.

The second half was tighter, as the 49ers scored 14 straight points. But, in the end, there was another solid defensive series that ended the game with another interception, sealing the 20-14 win.

What an awesome game to end the regular season. Now, onto the playoffs.

The One With a Hundred Games in One Week

Okay, that was an exaggeration, but this was one busy week.

We essentially had a game or practice just about every day.

Sunday - Kiff had an instant classic flag football day. He had two flags, drew two penalties, and had seven hurries that led to two interceptions.

Monday and Tuesday - Bri and Kiff had rainouts.

Wednesday - Bri had a game. They lost, but she was solid at catcher.

Thursday - Bri and Kiff had a game. Kiff's team beat the Diamonbacks for the first time this year. Kiff helped turn a double play, which is rare in the league.

Friday - Kiff's team had a solid game, winning 8 - 6. Kiff caught.

Saturday - today wrapped up the crazy week with Kiff losing and  Bri's team came from behind to win.

Whooooo! What a week.

The One With Bri's Last Spotlight

One of the annual traditions at Highlands School is that the students in each grade present a monthly spotlight at the Friday meeting. The idea is to have a class or grade make a presentation, performance, or play to the others that is related to a theme or event for the month.

Bri has put on five of these in the past, and I have had the chance to see most. I can still remember her speaking in kindergarten in a voice only a ghost could hear. However, these days her voice is much more boisterous.

It was hard to believe, but the last of these spotlights occurred today. In a bittersweet moment, her grade presented a series of speeches, poems, and reflections about Memorial Day (which is this Monday).

As I watched her classmates, many of whom I got to know, take spotlight stage for the last time, it was remarkable, wonderful, and sad (in a good way) to see how far they have come. It truly was amazing.

I looked there one last time and made a memory. Bri has grown up a lot. She has more poise. She is more confident....even if she spoke with a thin whisper one last time today.

What wonderful memories. That you, Bri, for all of the spotlights!

The One With The Royal Wedding

May 19, 2018. Today was the day of the Royal Wedding, where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle.

Now, if you had told me that I would have got up to watch it early on TV, I might have thought you were crazy. After all, there were a trillion TMZ style channels showing clips of the wedding. Why wake up early.

Yet, because of Emmie's sleepless night and the sudden smell of shortbread permeating the air in the morning, I knew all at once that she was eager to watch it....and I did, too. In fact, we made it a family affair.

It is not the first time these Royal Weddings have been a family affair. Back when Prince William Married Kate Middleton Bri, Kiff, Emmie, and Mom 2 watched early in the morning. In fact, they were up when I left. And, back in 1981, I remember being at the Cape when my mom and dad were watching....so deep down, there was a reason I felt like watching.

And I am glad I did. I actually made wonderful memories today.

The One With Mother's Day Weekend

It is here. The single most important day of any family Mother's Day Weekend.

After all, without mothers, there would be no family.

For us, this entails a variety of things. First, we have to contend with sports this weekend. Bri had a softball game Friday and Kiff has a football (flag variety) game Sunday, on Mother's Day.

Then, we had to deal with the fact we have recital practice. Always fun, but definitely digs into the time.

Once those are done, we have to visit Moms....always fun. We checked in with my mother earlier tonight. It was a hoot. And we will see Emmie's mother tomorrow at brunch, which is also fun.

It is a wonderful weekend...but VERY busy.

HERE's WISHING A MOMS A HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

The One Where Bri turns 11

It is hard to believe, but we celebrated Bri's birthday today.

It is hard to believe that 11 years have passed to quick.

But it is amazing and we are so lucky to have her.

She wanted to go out to breakfast and supper today....and it was magnificent! We had a late breakfast at Brothers and an early supper at Red's Tavern.

It was a great birthday!

The One With the Red Sox Record

The Red Sox have gotten off to a hot start this year. Tonight, they won their 19th game. This sets a new record for most Red Sox wins in the month of April.

Go Red Sox.

The One With Baseball and Softball Parade Day

It finally arrived...
The opening day of baseball. Earlier today.

It was a fabulous start. It was a little rough around the edges because Kiff was not feeling well today (it turns out he has pneumonia) and the fact Bri had a birthday party to go to. 

However, we definitely made it work all around. The parade itself went well. Bri then had a practice. Overall, it was pretty good...but she does have to work on batting.

Then, we had our first game as the Rockies. Not so bad...we pulled out a 4 - 1 win.

Overall, not a bad opening day.

The One with the Easter Party

This past Saturday, we had our annual Easter and Spring party for family. It was a blast.

We had it as an open house format where people could drop in. And it was a lot of fun.

We put out a ton of snacks that we definitely would do again:

shrimp
crackers and cheese
cheese dip
veggie tray
fruit tray

Yum!

We also had teriyaki chicken, ham, potatoes au gratin, and vegetables for a main meal.

With some good videos and Red Sox game in the background, conversation, and an Easter egg hunt....it was a blast.

We did the hunt a little different - each person was supposed to find a variety of colors...which worked out well.

By 5:00, it was all wrapped up....which makes for a fun and eventful day!

The One With a Happy Easter

Happy Easter!

Today was April first, a combo April Fool's Day and Easter....the first time these two dates have been paired together since 1956.

At our house, we had a fun day:

• Early morning with baskets (the Easter Bunny was very generous)

• Went to church

• Family brunch

• Walk at Endicott

• Easter Egg hunt

• Small dinner (and watching Ben Hur and King of Kings).

It was a great holiday.

Happy Easter

The One With Old Friends

Last night I got a chance to see a couple of friends I hadn't seen in a while - PD and Ritz. Back in the old days - 1995 - 2002 - we used to hang out nearly every weekend. But, as time has gone one, and people get busy and move, the moments to hang out have dwindled.

But last night, it was just like old times. And it was great. We grabbed a coffee just like we used to and then went to get some food....just like we used to as well.

And even though it was only a short period of time....it was a blast!

I can't wait to see them again.

The One With a Happy St. Patrick's Day

Today is Macrh 17, 2018. St. Patrick's Day! Our plan for today is as follows.

Some morning video games.
Basketball (the Celtics would be pleased)
Visit to a DI show in Beverly.
Corned Beef and Cabbage.


Sounds like a fun day to me!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

 

The One With Snow Fun

This past Wednesday was a snow day. Now, at first, it seemed debatable if we would have a snow day. But, sure enough, 21 inches later in Natick, we had no school.

Zoinks.


But it turned out to be a fun day. Building on the day before when we played some games at home, like Pictionary and 45s, we decided to enjoy the snow. First, we did a family shovel. Then, we built some snowmen. We followed that up by sledding.

It was a fun day.  But, here's hoping for no more snow days. We all went to get out in June...not July.

The One With Too Many Snow Days

This past week, we had a snowstorm that dumped nearly 20 inches of snow in Danvers. Ugh.

While it was nice to have two snow days to share, it moved our last day of school to June 21.

Please, no more snow!

The One With Bri's Last Day of Basketball

As I am watching a solid Celtics vs. Rockets game, I am reflecting on the fact that Bri's last basketball clinic was today. And she came a long way.


When I first heard that Bri was interested in basketball last fall, I was excited. When we signed up and she wanted to go through with it, it became real. When I had the chance to be one of the assistance coaches for scrimmages - which Bri reluctantly accepted, but was glad I did - I was excited.

It was the first time I had a chance to coach Bri in something...and it was a blast! She developed slowly during the course of the first month, learning the essential skills needed to dribble, shoot, and pass. But as January unfolded and they began playing games, her skills began to grow. She has a strong, natural shot. She is a strong kid as well, which makes her a solid defender. And, she likes to pass.

As she says, she still needs to want the ball, and needs to want to shoot it, but for a first experience, she did great. And I was glad to be a part of it! I can't wait to see what she will be doing next.

GOOD JOB BRI

The One With Peter Rabbit

In our family, Peter Rabbit has always been a bit. So, when we learned that it was coming out as a movie, we could not wait to see it.

This past Tuesday, we had the chance to see the classic tale come to the screen. It was one of those fun animation and live action movies that reminded me of those 70's Banana Splits cartoons I used to love back in the day. Of course, this animation was first rate.

Now, the movie itself was cute, clever, and a hoot. The movie borrowed from some ideas in the old story, as well as the Nickelodeon show that we used to enjoy as a family when Bri and Kiff were younger.

The story has a ton for adults as well as kids and a lot of laughs. We were clearly the loudest laughers of the bunch...but there was no doubt that there were laughs galore in that theater.

Glad we saw it and I have to admit that I cannot wait to see it again!

The One With Tubing

This past week, we did something that we had never done before.

We went snow tubing in New Hampshire. What a great experience. We were staying in  North Conway and decided to venture to King Pines, a place we had heard a lot about.

Needless to say, we were not disappointed. The original plan was to go cross country skiing, but we altered that plan a little - Emmie was not feeling that great. So, we figured tubing would be fun.

We were all a little wary. We had never gone before, and those waivers can always be a little worrisome. But, needless to say, we had a blast. There were three great guides at the top, helping to launch people down the hill, as well as a masterful hitcher at the bottom of the hill, guiding the tubes up. It was great.

We went down solo and as a group. Emmie only joined us for one run....it was a wee bit fast for her...but we all enjoyed our hour (that was fun to type) on the slope. And we cannot wait to go again.

The One With Annie and Ice Cream for Breakfast

Last Saturday was a wild one!

Very busy....but a lot of fun.

It started off with the annual Ice Cream for Breakfast extravaganza we take part in each year. In honor of the "holiday" on the first Saturday in February, Cherry Hill offers an ice cream for breakfast fundraiser. And it is awesome. This was our fourth year attending and even though the temperatures were as frosty at the dessert, it did not disappoint. 

We lucked out by being allowed to park in the back lot - the nirvana of parking at Cherry Hill. We did have a quick, but brisk wait. Brrrr. However, a visit from the Bruins mascot lightened our mood. The only thing missing was hot chocolate that is usually served.

Once we got to the door, we were able to enjoy some great ice cream.

Bri got cinnamon roll
Kiff got a breakfast sundae (of course)
Emmie got coffee and donut
I had my favorite - coffee and maple bacon. YUM!

Then, later in the day, we attended one of my favorite kid's plays - Annie Jr. We viewed it as a chance to allow Bri and Kiff to get to see drama in action once again, and visit the middle school as well. It did not disappoint. The show was awesome and the acting was fun. It was great to see some students we were familiar with take to the stage. One of my favorite parts was seeing how large the stage crew was. There were as many people in this one play stage crew as I had in total in ours. ZOINKS!

The One With Superbowl Weekend

Go Pats

The One With The Great Chicken Parm

Yum, yum.

Last night was what you call a Supreme's night. After a long week, we dialed up one of our favorite eateries and ordered out. 

You guessed it. I got a chicken parm sub. And wow - it was some sub.

I am typically a cheesesteak sandwich person when it comes to Supremes. Their cheesesteaks are great.

BUT their chicken parms rank right up there. Tender, light, and delicious.

It truly was a chicken parm night.

The One With The Loooong Week

This past week was long.

So long....even though we had an extra day.

Emmie is trying to get used to being back at school....which is going good....but we are all trying to figure out our schedule. This is the first week that it seems to be a bit more settled, which is nice.

We were able to go skating this week and Kiff was able to enter the Lego Races for Cub Scouts and came in 4th place.

Overall, a wild - but nice - week.

The One With Coaching Basketball

It was hard to believe but it returned.

After stopping 12 years ago. I once again coached a kid's basketball team. I had done it for so many years in Natick when I was much younger.

And today, I returned to the courts, coaching Bri's team.

It was a blast. I forgot how much fun it was. We had a good game....with a lot to build on.

But it was great to be back!

The One With The New Year

Happy New Year