Almost five is Great!

Having an almost five year old is so much fun! We have been working on saying prayers each night before bed. Not just the Our Father, but a prayer of thanks. Well, the other night as Ben began thanking God for everything in the whole world, he began to list all the things in the whole world like...the filter in the fish tank, the door to his room, his dresser. Cuter things were the roof over our heads and food in our bellies. He listed things for five minutes. I finally had to tell him to wrap it up. (Mainly I was trying not to laugh and needed to leave the room before I did.)

Today, we had Ben's friend birthday party. It was supposed to be last night, but because of the bad weather we had to postpone until today. Luckily Ben's two best buddies, Mateusz and Brady, were able to make it along with a his cousin Leslie, friends Sam and Courtney. It was a lot of fun. Ben wanted a Spider themed party. When I ordered the cake to have a spider web and spider, they confirmed that I didn't want Spiderman. I politely said, no just a spider with eight legs and web please. I made gift bags with spider rings, plastic spiders, spider tatoos, and candy. We also played, pin the spider on the web which I made. That was loads of fun.

Ben was great about saying thank you for the gifts, but then was annoyed when people didn't leave quick enough because he knew he couldn't build his new legos until they all left. So, Lego building took place and now he is happily playing. My heart is full!

Well, with the holidays I haven't been able to post as often. Forgive me!

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday!
Joan

I'm Thankful

I am thankful for a wonderful husband who is kind, generous and always there for me.
I am thankful for my Christmas miracle - Benjamin.
I am thankful for my parents, my in-laws, my sisters and brother, my out-laws, my nieces and nephews.
I am thankful for Beth who is there in all kinds of weather.
I am thankful for a roof over my head and food on my table.
I am thankful to still have my Memere.
I am thankful that I knew my Gramps and Grandma and Pepere.
I am thankful that I have faith that God loves me and all those around me.
I am thankful to have friends in my life who know me, really know me.
I am thankful for bubblebaths, red wine and a good book.
I am thankful for everyone who reads this silly little blog.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everday.
Joan

Amazing!

Okay, so I rarely go to concerts. I think that I can count on one hand the number of times I've gone to one...but last night I had such a great time. A group of us women all around the same age, crammed into a small car and drove down to Mohegan Sun. We got there in record time thanks to Johnna's driving ;) We were all very excited to go see Elton John. Alicia had gotten tickets and they were for behind the stage. We figured it didn't really matter, but they were AWESOME. We could see EVERYTHING.

Sir Elton played for three hours straight! How does that man do it? Some of the group didn't enjoy how some of the songs had long piano introductions, but I LOVE that. He'd finish one song take a quick bow and thank the crowd and go right into another song. His band is also fantastic. I loved watching the percussionist with all his gadgets. Really cool.

Throughout the concert I paid attention to the lighting and thought of my nephew Jeff. He would have really been impressed.

Got home by 1:30 am and was up at 8:15 today to go get a haircut. I'm tired, but it was so worth it! Totally going to take a nap today!

I'm supposed to be helping with the Children's Christmas Pageant Rehearsal today, but after about 1 hour Ben looked flushed and had a slight fever so I brought him home. I know he's sick because when I mentioned he needed a nap he said "OK Mom". You know that means he's not feeling well. So he's eating soup right now and then will go down for a nap.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everday!
Joan

Sorry I've been away...

Okay to the three, maybe four of you, who read this I apologize for not being as up-to-date as in the past. Boy is time flying by. I can't believe that it is already November, nevermind the 1th. This month is expected to be very busy. We've just had the baby shower for my sister Sheila. It was great to see everyone. Lots of babies there. I stayed away from them because I was not feeling great and didn't want to pass germs off. This weekend will be a whirlwind one...

Friday...Elton John
Saturday...9 - Haircut YEAH, 10 - Christmas Pagent rehearsal 11 - Help clean the church, 1 - the car goes in for an oil change and inspection
Sunday ... Church, breakfast birthday with two dear friends, 11 take Ben to a friends birthday party.

At some point Phil & I need to figure out what we plan to do for Christmas for Ben. He of course wants LEGOS. He is now able to follow the instruction books and build them on his own. He is just amazing.

Oh, did I tell you that he is having a pajama day. I will not be able to because I made arrangements to meet with my mentor for a couple of hours. I do enjoy spending time with her. She challenges me but is also encouraging.

Well, need to run.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

Another Nephew

It is hard to believe that November is here, but today our family was blessed with a nephew. My sister Amy and her husband David had Gregory David today at 5:28 am. Mom and baby are doing fine. I hope to have more information soon. It is also their other son Peter's birthday today so huge celebrations going on at their house.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

Imagination

We have always tried to encourage Ben's imagination so tonight was just so much fun. As many of you know, he is currently obsessed with Star Wars, the Clone Wars. Tonight he spent the night teaching me what it takes to be a Jedi Knight. So handstands, somersaults and fancy karate moves were the exercise of the evening. In order to switch characters of the training, Ben would spin around and say the name of the new character. So far tonight he has been Anakin, Obi Wan, R2D2, battle droid, Ahsoka (because he wanted to carry the Rocca, the baby hutt, in his backpack) and spider droid.

It is so hard not to laugh because it brings so much joy to see how he plays and uses his imagination. At the end of all of this fun will be bed times stories of Star Wars.

What fun!

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.

Joan

My wonderful husband!

Okay, those of you who know me really well know that I tend to be, shall I say, annoyed with the fact the Phil is always doing some project or another. Well, today I am not annoyed, I am thankful. Why you may be asking yourself? Well, mainly because he is almost finished with the new kitchen/hallway floor. This is a HUGE step. The linoleum that we had was old, worn out from years of Murphy love! Now, my floating floor is almost done. He did the hard part...the hallway. Now on to the rest.

Also, I am trying to appreciate all of this since so many of my friends' husbands are not handy. I have also been checking out my sister Mary's blog Mum2Best7.blogspot.com almost every day. During the month of October she is doing a retreat for our husbands. It keeps life in perspective for me.

So, Phil, I love you and thank you for all you do!

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

Family connections...

I'm sitting here at my computer checking my Yahoo account for updates on my Family Group page and then checking my Facebook account to find out more about my family. It is so interesting to see what people write in both locations. Facebook is definitely more relaxed but only quick updates. My family group page goes in spurts, but I love that we can do mass email posts to each other. This comes in very handy with a family as large as mine. Also, I can't really picture my Mom on Facebook, although two of my aunts are. Go figure!

I've been able to connect with my old roommate in college, Schmitzee (love ya!) and I know one of my oldest friends from Irish Step Dancing checks out my blog on occassion. I've also been able to use the internet, via this blog, to keep in touch with the gang from RBA/Brooks Brothers. Miss you guys! And I can't forget my BFF who I'm sure wishes I'd call more, but our schedules are crazy so the blog helps her know that I am still alive and ticking. Just so you know BFF I think about you every day and can't wait until life settles down a little bit.

I also use the web to connect to an old coworker who now lives in Texas.

So, while I miss writing letters, I am much better at a five minute sign on and doing a blog update.

Well, Happy Fall. It is the best time to be in New England. The colors are beautiful this year and the weather has been perfect. So go and take a walk with your family and enjoy the weather and thier company.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

Please pray...

Cancer...it is an awful disease. In the last few days I've been informed of two young women diagnosed with cancer...one underwent a double mastectomy and the other with an aggressive form of Leukemia.

I ask all of you who read my blog to say a prayer for these two women and their families. While we are at it...say a prayer for anyone affected by cancer.

Imagine if we didn't have to bail out wall street and were able to use that money for cancer research. Can you imagine how quickly we could have found a cure with that kind of money!

Luckily the power of prayer can work miracles. So everyone...take a moment and pray!

So, Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday!

Joan

Fall

This is my favorite time of year. Things that I love about it
1. The cool, crisp feel to the air
2. The taste of apples
3. Snuggling up in a blanket with tea
4. The sound of walking through the leaves (yes some of ours have begun to fall)
5. Football season, means lots of family time

Today as a family we took a short nap. We really needed it. We had quite the exciting morning. My in-laws renewed their wedding vows at the 9:00 am mass. I was up by 5:30 cooking for a brunch that we hosted for a small group of their friends. Great new recipe that I'm going to use for the holidays. Hash Brown Casserole. It has like 600 calories per serving, but delicious! It was truly a hit. The last group left around 1:30ish. Once up from our naps we took a walk. It was short, but really nice. The sun is out and we saw neighbors out in their yards or walking. I love fall.

We used our new room today...It is really coming along. It fit three eight foot tables with room to spare. I'm looking forward to hosting Christmas. There will be plenty of room for everyone! It is hard for me to believe that Ben is going to be five years old in just a few months. Time goes by so quickly.

Well, off to do some more cleanup here.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everday!
Joan

Pajama Day

While reading emails at my family group page we were discussing a girls night and making it a Pajama Party. Those of you who know me really well know that I LOVE to hang out in my pajamas. Preferably my nice and cosy flannel ones. I love doing this so much that for years I try to have at least three to four Pajama Days each year.

You may be asking yourself what a Pajama Day is. It is different for everyone, but for me it is pure bliss. I hang out in my most comfortable pajamas all day. The only things I try to accomplish on a pajama day are:
1. A Nap
2. Read a few chapters of a book
3. Have a cup of tea
4. Connect with my sisters and Best Friend
5. Extra cuddle time with Ben (although he really is not interested now that he is almost 5)

Before Ben and when Phil was in the Air Force this day was usually when Phil had his Reserve Weekend. Since Ben I am not able to enjoy this as much, but Ben does already have an appreciation for Pajama Day, much to Phil's dismay. Pajama Day's are much easier in the weekend when I already have a tendance to want to stay home.

Now that I am writing about this, it is making me LONG for a Pajama Day. Maybe Columbus Day weekend when we are at the campground. Otherwise I know I won't be able to have one until November. Something to look forward to.

Well, to the few of you who read this blog...plan your own pajama day soon! You'll be surprised how great it makes you feel.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

Recovery!

So, Ben's surgery was a success. What an experience. Wednesday we went to the hospital for a tour geared for kids. It was great. Ben brought Dizzy his plastic tarantual with us. He made such an impression that the daytime child life person was expecting him Friday am and Dizzy. Made it much easier on all of us.

As per instruction, no food after midnight and nothing to drink three hours before the 9 am surgery. Phil and I also chose to not eat or drink in order to not tempt Ben in the morning. We kept him up late on Thursday with a nice big ice cream right before bed. It seemed to work. Off we headed to the hospital and arrived right on time 7:30 where we proceeded to have to wait until 9:45 before they took him in. He was a trooper through it all.

Waking up was tough and lots of crying and after two hours we were allowed home eventhough he wouldn't drink anything, but did take the medicine without throwing it up.

At home lots of presents for being brave and visits from Memere and Pepere and JM. He slept great but woke up sore this morning and was upset because now his "great idea" of going to his friends birthday was not a great idea because he was too sore. Luckily by 11:30 he felt well enough that we did stop at the birthday for a couple of hours.

Now he is cranky but that is okay it means he is healing.

well, gotta run and get him more to drink.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everday.
Joan

Priorities?

Do you ever realize that your priorities are all screwed up? What about when you think you are on the right track and then realize you took the wrong track? I'm there right now. Time to re-prioritize my life. The upside for me is that it has been a week where I realize how blessed I am with having Phil for my husband, JM as my extra mom right now, my beautiful boy Ben, my prayer group, BH, and my family.

The tag sale is off for this weekend but almost everything is actually ready to go. With the weather being forecast for rain it is just as well. That would be the icing on the cake to sit out in the rain for two days. I think we are going to do it in October? The tape and mudders are here for the walls in the new room then we can begin painting.

Ben is enjoying his toy tarantulas. He still insists that Santa will bring him a real one, but until then he has built Dizzy (that's his plastic one's name) a home complete with bed, blanket, ladder (in case of a fire) and children! Yes, Dizzy is the proud Mother/Father to six baby spiders of all different colors. At least Ben has stopped asking for a baby brother!

I'm off to see Annie tonight at the Elms where my friend's daughter is performing. It is one of my favorite musicals so I am looking forward to it. Tomorrow is church and then a camp show meeting, where luckily I only have to go to part of it.

Well, time to sign off.
Peace to all who read this blog today and everday.
Joan

It's amazing what you find...

Okay, so this morning I decided to tackle my closet. As many of you know, our house does not have big closets and somehow I have more clothes than I have room for. So here are some things that I found....

1. A christmas present for Phil that is probably five years old that I never gave him. (Sorry honey, consider it an early christmas give this year.)
2. The appraisal write up on our house. No not the house we live in now that we have been in for five years, but our first house...that we bought almost 13 years ago! Why I would move and put just that document in my closet is an unknown.
3. A baby basket...I must explain, it is the bassinet style basket that was made for the cards at the babyshower that my MIL through for me. Her sister made it and I just can not part with it. It is full with all the cards we received when all of you heard we were FINALLY pregnant, when my showers occurred and for Ben's christening. I cannot part with ANY OF IT. So I put it back in my closet. It is worth the space. I found some unbelieve notes...from Ben's godmother, my best friend and sister of my heart (I am really glad God put you in my life) and all of my family. I showed it all to Ben. He didn't get it, but maybe someday he will.
4. A baby Blanket. It is the blanket that we used for his hospital picture. Did you know you didn't have to use the ugly backgrounds that they provide! I only found that out by luck because I asked for a different background. We used his star blanket. Since he was born on christmas and one of the themes for the shower was stars...
5. Shoes...lots and lots of shoes. Some don't even fit me. Some aren't even mine. Sorry Peg....I think I have at least TWO pair of your shoes. I've put them in a bag for you.
6. A curtain - brand new that I bought for Sheila's room when she was living here, but never put up.
7. Purses. I never thought I had a thing for purses but I think I do. I know I tend to stick with just one, but I have lots at least 10. But do you think I have on small black purse for those special occassions...NO! Hummmm, maybe that will have to be my next purchase.
8. Coat Hangers...I think they reproduce in there. I mean, I go through for them every couple of weeks it seems yet there they all were either on the floor or between clothes.

Of course I found lots of dust and such things, but I feel a little better that I purged some of the stuff hidden in my closet.

Next weekend we are having a tag sale on Saturday. I don't think I am up for a two-day tag sale. I'll have to see.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

A great day!

Today we spent the day as a family going to Mystic Aquarium. Ben's favorite part of the whole day was the sting ray touching pool. We went back at least 5 times and each time he was able to touch a sting ray. His second favorite thing was the tarantulas. YUCK. He even talked Jane into buying him a remote controlled tarantual. DOUBLE YUCK.

It was lots of funs with only a few meltdowns. Here are some fun pictures of the day. We leave for camping tomorrow so I'm so excited for the down time. Love to all.

The big stingray tank. Not as much fun as the touch pool.

Feeding the birds. (Mum would NEVER do this one)

End of the day...

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday..Joan

Time to download...

What a week this has been for me! I was given the opportunity to present to the principals this week. They are such a welcoming group. Already know I'm going to be teased about my Brooks clothes. I laughed with one of the principals today that I'm not allowed to have a bad outfit day now.

I don't feel ready for vacation. Much to my dismay I had planned to stay at work tonight until everything was done. That did not work because the man with the alarm key was closing up shop at 5. UGHH. I hope to swing in there tomorrow for just an hour to clean up. I really don't like leaving things unfinished.

Okay, Ben is so funny. Here is a picture of him being the firefighter. He loves to spend time outside playing like this.

Tomorrow he gets to go to a Princess birthday party. He has decided he will be Prince Darth Vadar. I'll let you all know how that goes.

Back to vacation, I'm very excited as we are going to Mystic Aquarium on Monday, then to Magic Wings on Tuesday then Ben and I head up to the campground for the rest of the week. Ben is going to have his first friend stay with us (the Mom's coming too). Should be loads of fun.

Had a great time catching up with some of my sisters tonight. Those of you I haven't reached yet I'm trying tomorrow. I love you lots.

Well all, need to get Ben to bed.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.

Love ya

Joan

Life is so Good!

I know I have been away and I am sorry. Let me try to catch you up on things.

Last week I went to RBA to go over a project that needed some explanation. It was fun to catch up with JT and DD. I got to see my 3:00 chocolate buddy. I miss the people an awful lot. My former director left for me Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich.


Then we headed off camping where I read the book! It was so funny. Phil kept asking what is so funny. We spent time in Peru. Did you know there was a Peru MA? Friends of our own property and it is only about 35 minutes from our camper. Ben rode his first ATV with his Uncle. He had a full helmet on, but you could see the smile he had on from ear to ear.


Work...well, this has been a truly awesome week for me. I was able to help create two presentations and do part of them. Tomorrow I will be at training sessions with the Principals. I love the energy of the school district.


Oh, yeah, Ben is continuing to ask for a baby brother. I told him that it just doesn't work that way. I, then teasingly said, what about a baby sister. His answer was "NO WAY". LOL


Ben is going to the twins "Princess" birthday party. His invitation came to Prince Benjamin. I can't wait to go and see how big the girls have gotten.


Next week we are on vacation...YEAH.

Love to everyone


Peace to all who read this blog today and everday.

Joan

Sorry I've been away...

I hadn't realized how long it had been since I'd posted. Sorry for all of you out there who looked.

Life is going along just beautifuly. Congratulations to my cousin H on her recent wedding to C. It was one of the most beautiful weddings I have ever been too. I also have decided that I no longer prefer yellow roses. The sunset orange roses that were at this wedding are now my favorite. I made darn sure that Phil knew. Not that he's sending flowers lately, but on the off chance that he does, he knows what I now prefer.

Did you know that I love camping? We headed up first thing on Saturday morning. The boys had already packed most of the car before I even got out of bed. Then, off to the grocery store while the boys went to the local Rocky's for self-tapping screws for the deck and then picked up up my coffee. Even my four year old knows that Mommy NEEDS her coffee in the morning. Not just wants, but NEEDS. He has been known to remind Phil to get me coffee on the weekend. God I really do love that kid! Camping eventhough it rained part of the weekend was full of wonderful family moments.

Okay so JM is back. I am so thankful she had a safe and wonderful trip to Texas. I so enjoy hearing about where her son and DIL take her for their side trips. I am glad she is back because now I have someone to have a nice lazy dinner conversation with. When she is not here I am rushing to get dinner done, on the table, dishes, bedtime then laundry that I barely have time for how was your day. With JM life is not in chaos. I am eternally grateful she is in our family's life. JM has quite the decision to make for 2009 ...Cruise or Hawaii. I, of course, told her it was a no brainer...Hawaii and that I can fit into a carryon! I asked if her son and DIL wanted to adopt me. She laughed at that one. She also told me I'm not the first to ask. So, A and J if you continue to read my blog eventhough JM is home...I'm available to suffer through a trip to Hawaii ;)

I got together with one of my friends from RBA/BB. It was a lot of fun and a ton of laughs. I need to do that more often. Thanks for such a great evening. Let me know when we can get together again.

I suppose I should get going. Oh...Thursday I find out what my sister S is having. I'm betting a boy, but it could be a girl. I can guarantee it is NOT a puppy.

Peace to all who read this email today and everyday.
Joan

The wonderful blessing of my family!

This weekend instead of going camping we decided to stay home and work on the construction site I call my house. Now, really that meant Phil needed to get some things done because I lost it when I realised I now not only have the room he is working on, but he put a hole in the dining room for a light and fan, a hole in the hallway for a new hard-wired smoke/CO detector, and another similar hole in Ben's room. Now, I shouldn't be complaining as one of my sisters politely reminded me because at least he does things around the house. I really just wish he'd finish it. He is definitely on the right track and is working all alone for the most part on it. Ben helps... he even has his own bucket for his tools now. But man, I really don't like all the dust. Top it off Jane is still away and she balances me and reminds me what is important. So this morning while cleaning I called lots of sisters. Unfortunately some of you weren't home. Imagine that! Here I am actually home and having time to call and they weren't there! (can you hear me laughingly saying this)

Well, those of you who were kind enough not to screen my call THANK YOU! I really needed to talk to you all. On top of that, my sister number 3 invited Ben and I over....THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU. I had such a wonderful time catching up with her while her boys wore out Ben. While he didn't sleep on the way home, he had lots to tell his Dad when he got home.

I quickly pulled together dinner for a friend who had surgery yesterday. A group of us from the most recent Cursillo Team are each taking a night. Tonight was mine. We went as a family to drop it off. Silly me, I thought we'd be able to go out to dinner as a family. So Phil dressed in his uniform because he had to work the fireworks tonight, Ben and I headed out. Well, yes Ben fell asleep. So I rushed in to drop the meal thinking that with the car stopped he'd wake up. No go. So, we did take out instead. We did at least have one hour together.

After Phil left, I took Ben outside to play in his pool. Of course he fell off the top of the swingset. Nothing broken just a few scratches and bruised ego. He was more embarrassed I think about not paying attention to what he was doing and losing his balance that he was hurt.

Well family, I am home tomorrow so those of you who missed my call just might get another one! Love you all. I feel truly blessed to have all of you! Some people don't have a list of people they can call. I have a great list.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

Mondays...

Mondays are always tough. Why is that? Is it because we cram so much into a few short days? For me it was that I had a hard time with the heat.

After the wedding Mum held a brunch for the out of town guests and some of her co-workers. It was another HOT day. The kids all played in the kiddie pool while the adults hung out inside watching the British Open (I think?) or were looking for shade. Em's house is great for a party. After a short time though I was ready to go to our camper. As soon as we got there Ben and I headed for the pool.

Ben is definitely enjoying the pool. He made great progress once again. He saw the same little girl as a couple of weeks ago and she was doing cannon balls...yes, now Ben does his own version of a cannon ball.

The constuction site is moving along slowly. With the wedding and my need to go up to the campground, not much has happened in the last week. The big closet is sheetrocked and I hope to have a ceiling in the room by the end of August. Weekends are for fun, not work.

I love catching up on my older sister and her blog. You can see it on the right of my blog. She has decided to go back to college. I have to say I keep toying with the idea and now that I am working a less stressful job (at least at the moment) I am again contemplating it. We'll have to see. As always money does come into play. Some days I wish it really did grow on trees.

My roomate from college checks this blog from time to time and so I must do a little call out to her and say HI and that I am so glad you are checking this. Now you need to create a blog so I can comment on yours...By the way, we took a picture at the wedding of everyone there that either works or went to the Elms. When it is available I'll post it for you to see.

I hope everyone at RBA is doing well.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

The Final Wedding

Wow! What a beautiful day for Sheila's wedding. It was sunny, but very hot . Here are some pictures from the day.

This is Ben with his teacher. We stopped there before heading to my mom's house. His friends were giving him the "Thumbs Up" and lots of high fives.

The wedding was very hot and I spent a lot of time making sure Ben kept his jacket on. It was all worth it...look at these shots...

The Bride with Ben and the flower girl, my niece.

Just missing the Bride.

We has so much fun!

Dancing cousins.

It was great to see everyone! Love to all.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everday.

Joan

PS updated this a little to remove pictures of his friends.

Realizations

Today was a moment where I realized I have SO much to learn.

My manager is great and is gently reminding me that it is okay to sit back and absorb what is going on around me. Not everything is my responsibility to deal with. My gut is telling me to "DIVE IN JOAN. GET IT IN GEAR. "

I have always had a job where there was the expectation that you dug in right away. I'm not saying I'm not digging in, but I am just not buried under the job before I even get started. That is a new experience for me. A welcomed change!

The change does feel right but I do miss all of my friends at RBA. I miss my lunches with TF, JT and SB. I miss talking through the cube to LR.

Hey my payroll friends, I met my new payroll friends...I'm sure I'll like them as much as I like you guys. Oh, guess what...I heard, but haven't found yet... there is a lending library here too. We can expand your options too. I'll let you know what I find.

No real Ben stories today other than he is learning to swim. He is now putting his face in the water. Tramatic day with a sliver today. I swear you would have thought I was amputating his foot with all the crying and carrying on he did. I wanted to tell him that he didn't cry that much when he broke his leg!

This weekend is family picnic at my Aunt in Granby. It'll be great to see everyone. I hope everyone is having a great week.

Peace to all who read this post today and everyday.
Joan

Sometimes you never know...

It all started with trips to the firestation with JM back when he was little. You would think that Ben's obsession with the fire department would begin to wear off over time, but here I was last night walking the neighborhood with Ben putting out "fires". Odd since there was no sign that there were fires in the area, but Ben put on his fire coat and hat, carried his plastic ax, wore his fire boots (really last years snow shoes), and carried his "medical kit". Being only 4 he's not allowed to wander alone so the "fire chief " had to go also. So, yes, doning my white fire chief's helment and carring my own medical kit, we wandered our neighborhood putting out fires and helping "heart attack" victims. Did you know that last night it was really hot out...Did you also know that Ben's gear is all black. After a while I was able to talk him back into the airconditioned house with the promise of an ice cream sundae.

I also started my new job yesterday. I finished Day Two and am beginning to feel a part of things. It is not easy joining a team that has been working together for so long that some are retiring together. The great news is they are amazing, dedicated professionals so I am in good hands. Dress code is very different than Brooks Brothers. It is nice to have the choice! I'm learning the recruiting side of HR which is very different.

I came in on my first day to fresh flowers from my boss's garden and a gift bag with a self development book - How full is your bucket along with a new tea mug and teas. Yeah! I felt very welcomed eventhough she had meetings most of the day. Luckily I am pretty self-reliant and she had left me a small stack of information to read.

Today I felt like I was part of the group and that I'll be able to contribute to the success of the Team. It is a great feeling. I'm researching technology and offering suggestions. I'm also trying to learn everything I can about how schools work. Not an easy thing, but really, its only day two! Sometimes I do notice that I expect much more of myself than is realistic too.

It is now pretty late and I need some sleep so I am refreshed and ready to go tomorrow.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday.
Joan

Til we meet again!

To all my friends at RBA/Brooks Brothers...

Words can not fully express my gratitude for all you have given me.

To the Payroll group - You do amazing work that is often unseen. Who else can get 4500 checks done during a holiday week in just one day! You guys ROCK! I will be in touch though so I can still utilize the lending library.

To my Finance Ladies - you know who you are... Your welcoming smile in the morning has helped me through many difficult days. I will never forget that. Keep smiling and checking here for the Ben stories.

Jon - Thanks for making me laugh! I won't say goodbye to you, but I'll see you soon.

Sue - What a friend you are! See you at our next playdate. You can make sure I didn't kill the plants you gave me! I would not have learned half as much if it weren't for you.

Laura - I know you'll continue to hear stories about me through Brian. Thanks for all you taught me!

Brian L - My IT "go-to" guy...Thanks for the advice and training and for just being a great friend.

To the rest of the RBA family - There are too many to name individually so I'm sorry... thank you for your encouragement and support in the change I am making. I know the door is always open and that is an honor to know that I am respected and trusted to that level.

Keep checking this post for Ben updates and life at the Nadeau Construction Site.

Peace to all who read this post today and every day.
Joan

A New Beginning Soon!

Well, it is really happening! I am leaving RBA/Brooks Brothers this week. As with all endings it is bittersweet. I will miss all the wonderful people I have worked with over the last 8 years. I have learned so much from them. I must admit though that there are always reasons for leaving and it is my time to do that.

The really downside to this is the cleaning of my "condo" cube. I have inherited over the years many different filing cabinets, reports, and junk. I have been purging. I couldn't believe some of the stuff I have found. Like the floppy disks for a presentation...Who even uses floppies anymore? I handed them over to someone else to dispose of. Today I met with a small team from here to go over various responsibilities...I felt like I was at confession and now I feel all squeaky clean. What a feeling.

The future is exciting and I am looking forward to my first day with the Westfield School Dept. It will be challenging and new and I smile every time I think about it.

On the family group page we have been discussing cost saving measures. I'm hoping that I can implement at least the not using the dryer option. I already tend to buy on sale only. Now we need to teach Ben about the economy. He is way too spoiled. My neighbor suggested I start posting things on craigslist. Need to look into that, but I am just not ready to go through the attic. I'll do that futuristically.

Well, Peace to all who read this email today...Happy saving!
Joan

What a week!

I know it has been a while since I've posted, but what a crazy week! I have been officially offered the position I'd been working on getting for quite a while now. YEAH. That meant, Monday I had to give my notice. After three days of discussions with various members of management I reaffirmed my decision to leave. This was a very difficult decision, because I am comfortable where I am, but truly need to make this change.

Home ... well we are still under reconstruction from the tree. This is the beginning of construction...last year...

Now the inside looks like this...

The end is nowhere in site!

Ben while helping said to me..."Mom, if you're good, I'll buy you a jewel." I, of course, thanked him, but then he said..."Mom, can you buy me a brother?" Whoa there! Slow down! It took us 10 years to have him and now he wants me to go to the store to buy a brother! If only! Our electrician/friend who heard this said "Ben, be careful, because when you go to the store they don't tell you if you purchased a brother or a sister. You find out when you get home. You might get stuck with a sister." Ben was horrified! Off the hook! (at least for now).

Here is a cute picture of Ben working construction here on the house tonight. Please notice his safety glasses and hard hat. We want him safe in the construction site we call home.

Peace to all who read this blog today and everyday!

Joan

Never enough sleep

Why is it that no matter what time I go to bed, I'm still tired? Is it the bed? Is it my thyroid condition? Could it be the stress?

Ben last night was so tired, yet wouldn't fall asleep until about 8:30. He did not have a nap so he should have been able to crash about 7. Which would have meant I could have crashed by 7:05. No such luck. I did finally go to sleep after 9 which is still early, but I'm yawning away.

Ben is just a doll though. Poor kid had an accident, because I forgot to remind him to go to the bathroom before bed. He's so grown up already because, he changed his clothes...put the dirty ones in the laundry room...then told me the bed was wet. I said to him (not really thinking it was wet due to past experience) to just use his blankets and we'd fix it in the morning. Well, this morning I checked on him, he covered the wet spot with the other sheet and was curled up in his blanket sound asleep. Yes, the bed was wet. That's what I get for not listening, buy hey it was 2 in the morning!

Tonight we are meeting regarding the 2009 Camp Show. We are not on the committee (I am grateful for that), but we are advisors to the chairmen so we are off to do our duty. Besides, I really enjoy Frank & Diane and miss seeing them each week. They are making us dinner besides. What is also great is they are totally in love with Ben so that makes it easy for us to be there with him. They GET what it is like to be so involved and have a little one.

Sheila's wedding is just a few weeks away now. I'm very excited for her. I still have not found THE outfit. Not sure why my outfit matters, but want to look good. The sitter emailed that she could stay overnight if we want to get a hotel room. That might be fun for Phil & I. Need to look into that.

Well everyone, have a wonderful day today.

Peace to all who read this blog!
Love Ya
Joan

Be the one who cares the most!

From a recent email that I thought it was worthwile to post. Be the best person you can be by caring about others.

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read the e-mail straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do? The point is , none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies...Awards tarnish...Achievements are forgotten...Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:
1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials..the most money...or the most awards. They simply are the ones who care the most.

Peace to all who read this blog today.

Joan

Let the games begin!

So, as summer approaches you may be thinking about vacation and relaxation. Well for me, I enter into the games of summer at work. This is the time of the year that all the directors want me doing their projects at the same time. When I take the time to take a step back and see what they want me to accomplish, it's pretty amazing. They all vie for time from me and really all I want to do is be able to do a great day's work and be able to leave it there so I can go home to my family. I don't like how I become when I get stressed, and June/July/August are pretty stressful months here. Oh well.

Last night my DH was supposed to stay at the campground overnight because he had been scheduled to work in Greenfield two days in a row. Lucky for Ben and I, he got rescheduled so he came home and put in the air conditioners. YEAH!

Ben was so hot I had him walking around in his boxer shorts. So cute.

Well, everyone, have a blessed day today. Pray for the firefighters fighting the large fire in Holyoke.

Peace to all who read this today.
Joan

Camping Season is Here!

Well, I am off for my first weekend in our camper and I cannot wait. Phil and Ben have been up for Memorial Day and then Phil's gone to work on the deck. We are all glad to be having this weekend together as a family.

Ben is calling today a "special" day. Special days are days that he does not have to take a nap. So, odds are that he'll fall asleep on the ride and not want to go to bed. Doesn't matter to me as long as I am with my family. Plus, I have a new book to read so odds are I won't mind staying up.

Sunday is my niece Melissa's graduation from Holyoke High. Congratulations Lissa! We are so proud of you. Looking forward to the party.

Peace to all who read this post.
Love ya.
Joan

Weekend...

What an odd weekend I had. First I caught up on lots of sleep. I truly needed it. Saturday began with my sisters at breakfast. Was thrilled to see Sheila, Peg and Mary and have quality time. We reminised about a dear friend Marge who had passed away. Then, the four of us headed to Holy Cross Church for the funeral mass. What a tribute to a life lived to the fullest!

After mass I gathered up my boys and headed to a graduation party. What a fun time. Ben had a playmate which made the party so much more enjoyable as we did not have to entertain him. Plus with the fenced in yard there was no place for him to go. It was great to catch up with our friends! Thanks Brian and Michelle. Once again a great time!

Yesterday was construction day. Phil has begun the work again on our front room. He was building the closet. Ben of course was out there with his tools doing his best to help. During one of Phil's trips to the H.D. Ben decided that we needed caution tape put up for the construction site. So now my front door in side has "caution tape"...really it says police line but that doesn't seem to matter since Ben can't really read yet. So, no...no crime has been committed at the house, just a "dangerous" construction site. Hard hats are required by the crew chief Ben.

As I left today all I could do was laugh. Ben also had loads of fun playing with Phil's caution cones in the back yard. I'll try to post some pictures soon.

Have a wonderful day. Peace to all who read this blog.
Joan

Sunshine

What a beautiful day today is going to be! The sun is already out and bright and shiny. I left our sitter with instructions that Ben should go outside as much as possible. He is currently hooked on a new Veggie Tales' movie that Phil bought him. It caused much morning heartache yesterday when we left for preschool as he didn't want to leave the movie behind. I have to say that I really enjoy Veggie Tales and this one is Sheerluck Holmes. Its is about how to be a good friend, which Ben could really use to learn.

This weekend is packed with activities, some sad and some very happy. I'll post more on Monday.

Peace to all who read this post.
Love ya! Joan

In Memory...

For Marge Kelly and all who knew and loved her. May she enjoy the party in Heaven...Until we meet again at the pearly gates Marge...

This poem was on the tables at this year's Women's Cursillo in the centerpieces made by Marge.

I hope this poem puts a smile on your face today.

MASTER GARDENER

Master Gardener, help me be
Content with where You’ve planted me;
You carefully place each seed you sow,
And choose the soil to make it grow,
A shady nook or sunlit plot,
A wooded glen or garden spot;
And when you send the storm and shower,
You give me strength and inner power;
All things come that You might be
Glorified, my God, in me;
And so I’ll lift my flowers high,
To cheer and bless each passerby;
And may they see within my face
The beauty of Your love and grace;
So help me, Lord, to ever beBlooming where You planted me.

—Wm. Claire Greiner

I'll always miss you Marge.

To all who read this blog...May the peace of Christ be with you always and in all ways.
Joan

After Glow...

Wow! What an amazing weekend I had! To spend a weekend with 50 women who's only purpose was to bring themselves to a deeper love of Christ was POWERFUL! While I am physically and emotionally exhausted, my heart is filled with HIS love.

I am blessed.

Thank you to all of you out there who said a prayer for us this weekend. Those prayers lifted us up.

While I had already made a Cursillo two years ago, to be there a second time as a member of the Team was amazing. I am humbled by what the Holy Spirit accomplished this weekend. I am grateful to have been given the opportunity. I am glowing from HIS love for all of us.

And to all who new Margie Kelly...may we always remember her humor, energy and spirit. She is now in His loving arms.

Peace to all who read this and always remember FROG...Fully Rely On God.
Joan

Waiting

For the past five months I, along with 16 other people, have been preparing for this upcoming weekend. We have been meeting faithfully each Monday, praying, bonding and growing in God's love together. This past Monday was our last meeting before the big event. I am waiting.

I am waiting for the rush of excitment. I am waiting for the stomach full of nerves. I am waiting for the welcomed embrazio of other Cursillistas. I am waiting for the knowledge that I, through Christ, reached at least one candidate. I am waiting with an open heart.

During this weekend, those who read this post, pray that the Holy Spirit will touch the hearts and minds of the candidates. Pray for the team of Cursillistas who have worked so hard these past months. Pray for all the Cursillistas. Lastly I ask that you say a special pray for my brother who on Monday is celebrating his 7th Anniversay of his ordination. Jim, I am so proud of you and your commitment to God.

Peace and God's blessing on all who read my post.
Joan

Tough Week

What a way to spend my birthday, in bed sick except for a doctor's visit. Yes, I spent the week sick. The blessing of it was acknowledging how wonderful my DH is. Even sick he made sure my little bought me a birthday gift and kept Ben busy so I could recuperate. The antibiotics are doing their job but as of today I still don't feel 100%.

Yesterday we went up to the campground to get the site cleaned up. Ben and DH are heading up their next weekend without me as I will be on Cursillo. I'm excited and a little anxious. On the way home from cleanup Ben fell asleep but I wanted ice cream. Luckily DH knows every ice cream spot so stopped and bought me my soft serve vanilla cone with rainbow sprinkles. YEAH.

Today we spend the morning with friends at my sister P's house. It was great to see Ben play with cousins and friends. Gave him a chance to work on his sharing ;)

I hope you all have a wonderful week this week. Not sure if I'll be posting as it is expected to be a busy week with work and packing for not only my weekend away, but also the boys.

Peace to all who read this this week.
Joan

Remembering how blessed I am

Last night was once again a beautiful experience with the Women's Cursillo Team. Each time we meet we move closer to God and one another. As we shared last night our various struggles, I was struck by how blessed I truly am. I am healthy, my family and friends are healthy and safe. I am not dealing with a house foreclosure nor with a husband without a job. I am not dealing with how to put food on the table or how to keep a teen on the right track.

I truly am blessed to have wonderful friends and family! Last night we prayed for anyone who is struggling right now that you may have the strength you need today and everyday.

I must say I am a little amazed at the number of candidates for the weekend...we are up to 35. I'm sure it will be a wonderful spirit filled weekend, but WOW...35 women! YAHOO!

My Mum surprised me with a Kay's Bakery cake last night. As we broke for snack out came the cake. I was very surprised and touched that Mum would make sure I was able to celebrate with this group of very special women.

I am filled with the Holy Spirit and the knowledge that I am where I am meant to be for right now.

May peace be with you today and everyday!
Joan

Time flies when you're having fun!

What a wonderful Mother's Day! As my neighbor and I sat on her patio drinking our tea we noticed how much our two little boys had grown since last Mother's Day. They played for over four hours without a significant fight or argument! They both had their motorized cars which they drove around our yards for hours. They only stopped to talk to the new neighbors to show them this or that. My DN (dear neighbor) and I laughed and felt a little guilty that our boys were bothering them as they tried to clean their new backyard. We were just so glad to have a few moments of peace and quiet.

My DH (dear husband) made sure Ben bought me a mother's day card and gift. Thank you love!

We had my sister's Jack-n-Jill on Friday Night. It was so much fun to spend time with my sisters. I take them for granted sometimes and I shouldn't. I'm going to work on that! They are all so different and special in their own way. I'm blessed to have all of them. It was scary to hear the music from my generation...I think my younger sister considers some of it oldies...Oh no! But, "We are Family" and "YMCA" will NEVER go out of style, nor will "Eileen" or "Love Shack"! Some of these were old when I was a child.

Not sure how much I will be able to post this week. Only two weeks until Cursillo so keep me and everyone in your prayers.

Peace to all who read this.
Joan

Taking the Time

So often each of us are running through our lives without thought to what we may be missing out on. Whether it is the opportunity to read to a child, see the sun set or just be with God. Yesterday without prior planning I had the blessing to spend time with my sister-of-my-heart Beth. I am always in awe when I am around her. Her strength, love, compassion and generousity astound me. I suppose after more than 20 years of friendship it shouldn't but it still does. I tried to sum this up in words for her because as Mother's Day approaches this weekend I wanted her to know how much I admire her and how Todd and Beth are rearing their two beautiful girls.



So Beth, this one's for you...May you have a Blessed Mother's Day knowing that all of your hard work, dedication, love and compassion show through the kindness and love of your two children. May God always hold you and those you hold dear in the palm of his hand.

I ask each of you this weekend to take the time and witness God's love for each of us in the little things. Take the time to tell someone how much you love them. Hug a child. Smile at a stranger.

Peace to all who read this blog, today and always....Joan, Blessed Mom to One

The Beginning

Each day I search through my favorite blogs and think "Should I start one today?" or "Do I even have anything important to say?" While what I might post may not be important to everyone it may touch just one person by letting them know they are not alone.

My journey begins today. I will start by sharing how wonderfully challenging it is to raise my little boy to be respectful and faithfilled. This weekend I had the pleasure of bringing him to church fully dressed as Darth Vadar. While some may have been upset I'd let him stay in his costume, I thought how wonderful that he sang the responses, said the prayers, kneeled reverently at the tabernacle and bowed in front of the altar. He's only four and at least he's at church participating. So for all of you out there struggling with bringing your child to church...remember that at least you made it there and are doing what you can to bring your child to Christ.

May you have peace in your life today and everday.