The Coughlin Family

The Reilly Show

2010-02-15T09:18:00.005-05:00

This is for you Uncle Jason! xoxo

Cassidy's Winter Cotillion

2010-01-31T08:48:00.008-05:00

Junior/Senior dance last night, looking forward to hearing all the details!

Annabelle, Elizabeth & Cass

The kids love their new bangs~thank you Auntie Mary.
xoxo

and she's off...

2010-01-26T15:08:00.010-05:00

Cassidy got her license this morning! She got home off the schoolbus at 2:30 and was outta here by 2:45. Freedom must feel soooo good! I snapped this shot of her experiencing this newfound freedom~haha

My baby is growing up!

Cass & Rosalie ♥
w/ Auntie Jeannie

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Reilly, my little Daisy Scout

Caragh, my little devil ;)

Pics from the weekend~

2010-01-04T09:11:00.013-05:00

Here are some pics from over the weekend. The last few days of my vacation! I'm pretty depressed about going back to reality, but it's somehow more comfortable to me having a schedule. Not that I really want to work, but getting back into the swing of things is good I suppose. I had a long, lazy two weeks off and now it's back to work, back to dieting and back on track all together.
...and back to blogging, which I forgot how much fun it can be! :)

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snow play

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impromptu dance party

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sledding at Cable Hill

♥

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T10:57:00.020-05:00

For 2010, I will be a better blogger. We've had some great times since my last post. Too many to share in just one entry. I chose the best pics in the last few months to give you a glimpse of what we've been up to...

We had the greatest Christmas. We had Jay's girls up from VA to spend the holiday with us. It was so nice to have all our girls under one roof and we had soooo much fun!

Cass, Katie & Megann

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We had some good times w/ cousins!

We went to Indian Head Resort in NH w/ the Maxwells and spent the day at Clark's Trading Post.
Emmet ♥
Cassidy made Captain of the cheering team for next year, her SENIOR year...

...and got her very 1st car! Life is pretty good for her these days...fingers crossed!

That seems to be it in a nutshell. I know I'm leaving out tons of stuff and that's why I'll put more effort into it from now on.

Take care and Happy 2010!

xoxoxoxo

Weekend Fun

2009-06-08T09:15:00.021-04:00

We've been having so much fun outdoors. It so good to see active, happy kids. Jay and I enjoy hanging out there watching them play while discussing all our plans for the house. Cass will occasionally join us. It's just great family time.

My favorite thing to do~light a fire in my chiminea. It's just so relaxing.

Emmet catching his breath after a game of catch.

Cass helping her little sisters, so nice to see.

She never lets me get this close~she has no idea how cool her mother really is! ;)

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Check out the new park here in town~amazing w/ an even more amazing story:

This park was built in honor of Naoko O'Flynn, who died of cancer last year at the age of 35. Her husband, Michael, wrote, "After a tremendous outpouring of financial support from the community here in the North Shore, in New York City (where we lived for many years) and her native Japan, I decided to refurbish Great Neck Park down by Pavillion Beach-for while Naoko was fighthing cancer for 18 long months she found great solace in watching our 3-year-old daughter, Lucy, playing both on her backyard swing in Essex and, on the occasion her mother's health allowed her to take an excursion, down at Great Neck near my parents home in Ipswich...I thought a great way to honor her would be to build a new playground where children would enjoy endless hours of good, old-fashioned play."

By the park entrance, there will be a large rock emblazoned with the words of his late wife's favorite poem, by Stephen Grellet:
"I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again."

The Big Show

2009-06-03T09:02:00.014-04:00

The girls' dance recital was this past weekend. It was Caragh's first year in the Creative Movement class. She danced to 'The Beating Drum'.
Reilly is on her third year of Ballet and danced to 'The Toy Trumpet'.
They both did great and we were all so proud!
Here are the divas on their way to dress rehearsal. They loved the make-up!

and after the big show...

Great job, my tiny dancers! xoxo

Kowloon's

2009-05-06T14:29:00.014-04:00

Birthday bash! We wish EVERYONE could have joined us, but it was a Tuesday night in Saugus, not to mention it would have run up quite a bill!
We had lots of laughs and lots of good food.
Happy 16th Cass, hope it was memorable! xoxo

16 roses for the birthday girl

Annabelle, Grace, Lizzy, Cass & Mary

Ben & Dominic

Reilly & Caragh w/ Auntie Karyn and Uncle Dana

Thanks everyone!

Sweet 16!

2009-05-05T08:48:00.005-04:00

Happy Birthday Cassidy~we LOVE you...and you continue to make us proud.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥...16 hearts plus 1 for good luck!

XOXO

Happy Birthday to Kelsey, my Goddaughter~17 years old! WOW! A big Happy Birthday to Auntie Jodi! We LOVE you both! ♥

Russell Farm

2009-05-04T21:00:00.014-04:00

Our favorite farm has opened after a long winter!
We finally got to visit all of our animal friends and enjoy some yummy cider donuts.
Lucky for us, the Rich Girls came along and made the day WAY more fun.
We all had such a great time.
I love you girls~you rule!

Love you girls! ♥♥♥♥♥

Dining al Fresco

2009-04-26T20:53:00.005-04:00

We spent every moment possible outdoors this weekend, as y'all must have too.

It was THE BEST! With spring here, it's as if we're living a different life. I forgot what we were missing all winter. Being outdoors~there's just so much to do and not enough time to do it. We're lovin' it!

YAY for spring!

2009-04-22T13:49:00.008-04:00

We are just loving this weather. Being outside is soooo nice!

EASTER

2009-04-13T09:42:00.024-04:00

I wish I could say that we had the most wonderful Easter, but my babygirl Caragh was sick. She came down w/ a fever the morning before and was feeling pretty lousy come Easter morning. She awoke to her basket and joined in on the egg hunt, but just barely.

Then it was back to bed for Caragh and Daddy (who was also not feeling well).
The rest of us made it to Nana & Papa Rich's for the annual egg hunt, but we felt awful that Caragh and Jay were stuck at home in bed.
They were definately missed by all.
My *sweet* nephew Brendan gave up his own basket and made sure to hunt for as many eggs possible just for Caragh. Thank you Brendan, I am so proud of you~you're a great big cousin! She was so happy when we got home and showed her all her treats! ♥
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At Nana & Papa's

Rosalie & Jeannie

Derek & Reese

Nana & Cass

Nana w/ her strangest child (& Reese)

Mallory & Auntie Erin

Mall & Reilly

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EGG HUNT! Ready, set, GO! These kids were NUTS! Their parents worse! ;)

Reed, Mallory, Cade & Reilly

Katie & Reese

Rex

Elise w/ Uncle Matt

Erin, Alana, Reed, Reilly & Hillary

Jay M. & Hillary headed back to check their loot.

Inside most eggs were special tickets that were "cashed in" for some really cool stuff.

Thanks Ma & Dad...these kids really LOVE this. You guys go above and beyond!

We all love you! xoxo

Coloring Easter Eggs

2009-04-11T12:00:00.007-04:00

Reilly's best Easter night ever!!!

Big Sisters Are The Best

2009-04-10T08:37:00.007-04:00

They lift you up when you need it.

They know how to make you smile.

They get you up & dancin'.

♥

Strike A SPRING Pose!

2009-04-07T14:16:00.008-04:00

It's been wonderful to get outside, when we can! One day it's beautiful, and the next rainy but that's spring I suppose.
My kids, like all kids, are happiest outdoors and it's so nice to sit and watch them play.
Oh, and make them pose for the camera too. ;)

This seems to be a pattern...

2009-04-02T09:14:00.015-04:00

Hi, I'm Kelli and I'm a lame-blogger-a-holic.
It's certainly not due to lack of subject(s) to blog about, I just simply enjoy reading others' blogs. I end up blowing off my own for so long that to update it seems like an impossible feat (where do I start, it's been way too long, maybe I should just forget it all together, etc.).
The guilt eventually gets to me and I realize that if I'm keeping this as a diary for my kids, I must end this procrastination and get crack-a-lackin'.
***
Headed to RI for another cheering competition:

***
Cass went to visit her Dad and Aunt Christine & family in CA this past February vacation. Here's a pic of Cass & her cousin Nathan. I haven't a clue about the glasses:

***
Happy 4th Birthday Caragh!!!

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Happy 6th Birthday Reilly!!!

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Maxwell Girls sleepover! Fun, fun, fun! My parents had all these girls 24/7! Wow!
***
Cass chillin' in her cave (a messy cave!)...

♥♥♥

Miss Reilly Erin

2009-02-05T14:37:00.004-05:00

waiting for the schoolbus...it's freakin' COLD out there!

♥

Another Survey...

2009-02-04T09:06:00.002-05:00

I live: in a town where there are as many bars as churches (ALOT!)

I work: at home, have my own home day care business...nothing like being your own boss.

I smell: coffee, on that first and best cup of the day

I listen: to talk radio whenever I can...Jay Severen(sp) is so intelligent.

I hide: the scissors

I walk: very fast, no time to waste, on a mission

I write: sloppier as I get older

I see: perfect after having eye surgery, no more glasses

I sing: pretty good I thought until my sisters told me I don't

I can: multi-task~I try to do everything w/ the least amount of time and energy. I can balance a laundry basket, dirty dishes and toys just so I don't have to make two trips upstairs.

I watch: some scary sh** on TV, makes me paranoid BUT rightfully cautious

I daydream: never

I want: my home improvements done already and we just started

I cry: not too much these days, the hole in my heart will always be there and tears won't change that. I'm learning to live with it.

I dream: every night but forget most

I read: as much as I can, most favorite thing to do

I love: chocolate

I rode: a bike around the neighborhood a few times last summer w/ a HELMET on...Cass was sooo mad!

I sometimes: procrastinate paying bills...HATE, HATE, HATE it and am ready to give it all up to Jay.

I fear: getting real sick or anyone I care about getting real sick

I hope: my family is healing

I eat: 22 points per day...Weight Watchers. I am eating HEALTHY! I feel great!

I drink: water, coffee

I play: I Spy w/ the kids to shut them up in the car

I miss: my brother

I forgive: easily, I'm not a grudge holder

I lost: 7 pounds! YAY!

I drive: a mom-mobile, but I really do like it

I kiss: my kids and my hubby

I hug: my kids, my hubby, family

I have: great memories of childhood

I remember: being read to by my sister Mary

I don't: exercise right now and I feel gross about it

I believe: that there is an after life and we have angels all around us

I owe: Jay kudos for his chivalry towards me and others. I love that about him.

I know: I can be moody

I hate: awkward social situations

I wish: I were more of a people person

I wear: foot deoderant, I cannot stand sweaty feet!

Maybe I should: start that exercising I mentioned

People would say that I'm: a neat freak

I don't understand: easily offended people, I get it but I just don't get it

My past is: what makes me ME, the good and bad

I get annoyed when: Jay makes me the butt of his jokes when there's no truth to the matter

Parties are: can be fun w/ a few drinks

Tomorrow: is just another work day, almost Friday though

Never in my life have I: seen a moose

When I was younger I: was the teacher's pet every year

When I'm nervous: the back of my neck burns

My life is not complete w/out: my family

If you visit my hometown: don't blink, you'll miss it

The world could do w/out: murders that kill random people

If I ever go back to school: it'd be for psychology or criminal justice

And, by the way: it was fun to reflect on myself!

Sophomore Semi-Formal

2009-02-02T09:13:00.012-05:00

Cassidy, Emily, Courtney & Elizabeth

So cool, so funny...

2009-01-30T12:37:00.003-05:00

Cassidy and Caragh are in school together!

Caragh's pre-school is part of the high school Child Development class. I guess you could say she and her friends are guinee pigs for the highschoolers taking the course. Although, they do learn from eachother.

I took a similiar class when I was in high school and I still remember most of the children (who are in college now!). They were very special to me and I loved the class. I always wanted to send my kids to a program like that when I in fact had kids~and here I am. Lucky for me, it's offered at Ipswich High.

Reilly took part in this program for two years and certainly made a name for herself w/ all the highschoolers. I think she knows more people in town than her Dad!

So now, it's Caragh's turn. She started this fall and really looks forward to going each day. She's a lot more quiet and reserved than Reilly is/was, so it's interesting to see the difference in the two.

Cassidy is taking the class this semester as a big buddy and Caragh is one of the little buddies. When I drop Caragh off at school, Cassidy is there waiting for her. I think this is pretty dang cool. Considering the age difference (12 yrs), who would have ever known they'd be in school together. They're both loving it!

Happy Birthday Emmet!

2009-01-28T09:09:00.006-05:00

Emmet turned 7 this past Monday. This lil' guy is full of gusto! He's lucky to be seeing 7 years old...I've seen him take on a German Sheppard, a Chow Chow, the neighbor's cat~you name it. He even showed (Katie's) Rocco who's boss! We should have named him Cujo, like Jay wanted.
I think he's the spitting image of Emmet Otter of Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas, hence the name.
He sure is the cutest dog I ever did see! ♥

Notice Caragh isn't too close~she says he smells like shrimp...sooooo gross! Not true!

THE SENSATIONS ALL STARS

2009-01-27T09:32:00.005-05:00

Cassidy has started cheering for an All-Stars team out of Amesbury since Ipswich doesn't have winter cheering. Her teammates are from other high schools in the area, which is cool. She's meeting new people and making new friends.

They had their first competition at UNH on Sunday. It was a great show! They had no competitors in their division/level and therefore took 1st place! ;)

It was for the experience and to put themselves out there since the team is very new. They did great and will only get better. WAY TO GO SENSATIONS!!!

Next stop...Rhode Island on Valentine's Day. It should be fun!

Okay, okay!

2009-01-14T09:14:00.012-05:00

Katie's mad at me for not blogging and thinks that I'm lying about not having any material to blog about. Just b/c she's able to pull stuff out her butt and write about mostly anything...I cannot. I'm writing now so y'all know that we're still alive over here in Ipswich. I also don't want anymore harassing emails from K saying, "Your blog...NO excuses! Fyou!". She cracks me up b/c she really, truly means it, she gets angry at lil' ol' lazy blogger me.

Let's see, the holidays have come and gone and I am so glad that there's just nothing anytime soon. I prefer to just relax and hibernate for the winter and that's what I've been doing. I started Weight Watchers a week ago and I'm doing great~feel great, already see results...HAPPY!!! Dang, I put on some poundage this fall! Jeez! Now it's time to get back on track.

And...Katie & Jeannie have gotten my creative juices flowing on the home improvement front, so again, we're starting to make this house more our own but w/ no real chunk o' change. Poor Jay will be working hard makin' money to only be spendin' the money. We both love home improvements though and we have the same taste and desires, so it keeps us excited. Our house is about 50 yrs old and outdated in areas but w/ some minor improvements, it'll be perfect to us (bigger would be nice, but that ain't happening). I have to say that I LOVE my house and mostly everything about it. I appreciate it being ours' every single day. Sappy, but true. We'll be here forever and that feels great.

The kids are all doing well. They're all at such great ages, they are each becoming so independent and it makes my life a heck of a lot easier. We can go places w/ no strollers, kids are on foot...it's just great.

♥Cass continues to do very well in school, she's a nice teenager 90% of the time and I'll take that! She'll be visiting her dad in CA in a couple weeks and she's looking forward to her trip out there to see a new cousin. She's doing All Star Cheering and that'll keep us traveling fairly local the next few months: Rhode Island and Hershey, PA to name a few places. It'll be quite an experience going on these road trips. It'll be good family time.

♥Reilly is doing well in Kgarten, although begs and pleads and comes up w/ new ailments each morning to have a "day off". For an active chatter box, this kid is lazy! She's very smart but I think she takes after her Daddy and enjoys the social part of school more than the lessons. She does well, but I get the impression homework will be a big pain in the a** w/ this one. Let's hope not though. She's got a mind of her own and it is much wiser than it should be!

♥Caragh is loving preschool and is becoming quite the character. She has the most amazing memory and it just shocks me w/ the things she says. I forget sometimes that she's not my baby but a little girl. She does like to be reminded that she's the baby of the family numerous times a day though. She and Reilly are inseperable but can be vicious w/ words and fists! These two fight like cats and dogs and they go for the juggular(sp)!!! Ahhhh...reminds me of my childhood.

♥♥Katie and Megann are back at home after spending the week after xmas here. Katie's back to college in TN and Megann's doing senior things in highschool. They are such great kids and I've said it before (I'm sure) but I'll say it again...the bond these 5 have as sisters is truly AMAZING, considering the distance between them. We are complete when they are here, my kids are complete. We miss them for so many reasons and we talk to them through email, phone calls and texts as much as we can. The little ones even write them letters every now and again. Sisters sure are special.

So, I think that may be it or at least most of it. Emmet's doing well, he fattened up like his pack leader, so we're both laying off the snacking and grazing.

Emmet & the Grinch...Doreen, you're a PIG!

And a few more:

Caragh looks *exactly* like me when I was this age! It's uncanny!

Uncle Jay & Reese...why I think Jay's got baby fever lately! haha...NOT!

Getting to know you II...

2008-12-08T10:58:00.004-05:00

Welcome to the 2nd Edition of Getting To Know Your Family and Friends, Christmas Style. You know the drill.
Get crack-a-lackin'!

1. Do you put up outdoor Christmas decorations? YES! That's the best part of any holiday. I wish I could put lights up, but Jay is severely afraid of heights and isn't willing to hold the ladder while I try it out either.

2. Do you have a favorite Christmas cookie? I love sugar cookies but I think I'll say my mother's Greek or Italian cookies, made for every holiday.

3. What is the best gift you ever gave someone? I can't think of any best gift. I get excited about any gift b/c I put a lot of thought into gift-giving, so I always know the recipient will be happy.

4. Do you like fruitcake? never really had it

5. What is your least favorite Christmas song? I HATE Feliz Navidad, it's just soooo annoying!

6. Do you go to church on Christmas Eve/Christmas Day? a guilty no...I'm still waiting for that calling, but nothing yet. Someday I hope.

7. Do you hang Christmas stockings? Where? Santa usually puts them under the tree for xmas morning

8. Do you truly believe "it's the most wonderful time of the year"? yes, even though I do hate the crowds and I am not a shopper...I hate shopping! Once I get started though, I get very excited. Aside from the shopping thing, yes, I do enjoy seeing everyone in the spirit. It makes you appreciate your family and friends, heck even strangers!

9. Have you ever worn a Santa hat? no, I'm not opposed to it though. Aren't I cute??? splllrt.

10. Are you more like Scrooge or Father Christmas? ummm, in between?

11. Do you hang mistletoe? no I should get some

12. Does Santa wrap presents or just place them under your tree? some wrapped, some displayed w/ no wrap. There was nothing better as a kid than running down on xmas morning and seeing a new doll in her carriage...I wouldn't wrap that. Those are the memories, baby!

13. Can you ice skate? no and I have made quite a fool out of myself trying!

14. Do you love snow? I LOVE snow but it does get dirty looking come March

15. Which do you prefer--giving or receiving? giving

16. Candy Canes--yuck or yum? maybe one

17. The 3 best things about Christmas? the smell of Christmas (if anyone knows what I mean), family & friends getting together surrounded by xmas decor, xmas spirit~everyone is just happier

18. What type of decoration should stop being made? christmas balls...

19. Do you listen to 24/7 holiday radio? I listen to my CD's all day long, while burning my bayberry candle...ahhhhh the smell of Christmas!

20. Rudolph or Frosty? Frosty was always so cute and so nice, I love his voice.

First snow!!!

Catching up...

2008-12-02T14:30:00.009-05:00

Bad blogger...spank, spank, spank! ;)

Some pics of my beauties~

Cass, having her first driving lesson w/ me~

Cassidy's cheering banquet~

The Coach's Award goes to.......Cassidy Rich! Yay Cass! WooHoo!!!!!

♥

They take 3rd!!!

2008-11-16T13:29:00.004-05:00

Great job girls~another trophy! They've received one from each competition this season. This is a great feat for the Ipswich Cheerleaders! Way to go Tigers!

♥

GO IPSWICH!

2008-11-13T09:39:00.004-05:00

Competition tonight in Danvers~wish us luck!

This pic was taken at their Halloween game, they were beauty pageant contestants. Cass was Miss Vermont~IDK? I always tell her that she should think of going to college up in VT or ME but she's talking about NY city lately for film and music editing (I think). I can't wait to look at schools, I will soooo be living vicariously through her!!! My smartie pants got all A's and one B this quarter in all honors classes. This is extra great b/c cheering has taken up so much of her time and she also has her tougher classes this semester. She works so hard and sets such high standards and goals for herself. We are so proud of her!

Lorraine's Survey

2008-11-12T10:47:00.003-05:00

Survey Time

10 YEARS AGO I . . .
1.) was 24 years old
2.) had a 5 yr old daughter
3.) got engaged
4.) bought my first home
5.) battling my weight, same as now!!!!!!!!! Good grief!

5 THINGS ON TODAY'S TO-DO LIST
1.) prepare lunch for kids
2.) pick Caragh up from preschool
3.) think about what's for dinner
4.) laundry
5.) trip to grocery store

5 THINGS I WOULD DO IF I WERE A MILLIONAIRE
1.) buy a vacation home somewhere up north
2.) hire a work out team/nutritionist to whip me into shape
3.) buy a new wardrobe
4.) take my whole extended family on a trip
5.) help my extended family out a bit (just a million bucks, right?)

5 PLACES I HAVE LIVED
1.) East Boston, MA
2.) Revere, MA
3.) Topsfield, MA
4.) Salem, MA
5.) Ipswich, MA

5 JOBS I'VE HAD
1.) Pasticceria Italiana bakery all through high school
2.) nanny
3.) McDonald's for 1 day...WOW, I know!
4.) TJ Maxx for @ 1 week...hated it!
5.) Horsley Eye Clinic-enabled me to get my eyes done for NADA!!! 20/20 now!

Fun, thanks Lorraine! It's always good to reflect on what you've done and what you would do if...

Getting to know you...

2008-11-11T09:28:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the Christmas Edition of Getting To Know Your Family and Friends...you know the drill. Get to bloggin'.

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? both

2. Real tree or Artificial? the real deal!!!

3. When do you put up the tree? @ 3 wks before xmas

4. When do you take the tree down? @ a week after

5. Do you like eggnog? somewhat, w/ a lil something in it ;)

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Cabbage Patch Kid FOR SURE!

7. Hardest person to buy for? Jay, needs nothing-lives very simple

8. Easiest person to buy for? my kids

9. Do you have a nativity scene? no

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? mail, love giving and receiving them

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? one admittedly purchased at a yard sale, but "looked good as new!" (sorry if you know who you are!)

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? mid December

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? NEVER!

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? my mother's Greek & Italian cookies (she's neither~haha)

16. Lights on the tree? I prefer white but Jay & kids like colored, so colored it is

17. Favorite Christmas song? Where are you Christmas

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? different every year

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? of course

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? I have a ragdoll angel that's been on my tree ever since I moved out of my parent's house, it always will be

21. Presents on Christmas Eve or morning? one gift (pj's) for the kids on Christmas Eve and the rest on Christmas morning

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? shopping, I hate it!

23. Favorite Ornament theme or color? I love ones that you know who gave you them and why, ones w/ meaning behind them

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? prime rib cooked by Jay's mom! The best!!!

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? $$$$$ haha

Merry Christmas friends! xoxo

It's FRIDAY!

2008-11-07T10:46:00.004-05:00

Why not stand on your head!!! ;)

Remember these days Mary & Erin? Well, I've still got it!
However, those pics will be emailed!

RUN!!!

2008-11-05T12:17:00.006-05:00

Wild Turkeys!!! We usually see two or four, but seeing 24 of these creatures was quite a sight!

at the neighbors...

through our backyard...

and back to where they came from.

Cheer Competition, Medford

2008-11-03T10:36:00.013-05:00

Cass w/ her 2 biggest fans! ♥♥♥

Ipswich Cheerleaders placed 2nd in their division! Great job GALS! YAY!!!

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Papa Gino's w/ all the kiddies~FUN time, thanks for coming Auntie Jeannie & Auntie Erin! xoxo

♥

Toothfairy & New Shoes

2008-11-02T19:18:00.003-05:00

1 down, twenty-something to go!

She sleeps w/ them EVERY time!

Halloween '08

2008-11-01T11:48:00.011-04:00

Here are some pics from Reilly's school parade~

Reilly & Dagan...she thinks he is sooooo adorable! (I have to agree.)

Rowan & Reilly

Class of 2021...how crazy is that?!?!?

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Trick or Treating w/ the Maxwells~
We had sooooo much fun! I still laugh thinking of all these girls flipping their little bodies out of the wagons at every house and bolting across lawns and up walkways, screaming at the tops of their lungs the whole way! It was a sight!

♥♥♥♥♥

Happy Halloween Y'all

2008-10-31T09:20:00.002-04:00

Sorry I won't be there...Tony, Daisy and I are headed to LAX and we're off to Hawaii! See y'all when I get back!

xoxo Jessica

Erin's Tag

2008-10-27T09:17:00.002-04:00

Open your photo program and choose the 6th file and then the 6th picture and see what you get.

This is what I got:

It's Natalie (I'm pretty sure anyway). This pic was taken at the Maxwell House (haha, lol every time I say that!) while we were there to beat the heat, soaking up their AC. We were in the middle of moving and as my luck would have it, our AC crapped the bed during a major heat wave. I was losing it, stressed out to the max and Jeannie was gracious enough to let us hang out for the evening and cool off. It was that night that I was introduced to chocolate almond frozen yogurt, which doesn't sound too harmful but I've been an addict ever since. Too much of a good thing is never a good thing...@ 10lbs later! Yeah, thanks Jeannie! ;)

We ♥ you Papa Jack!

2008-10-21T09:53:00.002-04:00

We don't get a chance to see Papa as much as we'd like but when we do, he makes sure to spend quality time w/ the kids. You're a great Papa and we love you!

Ipswich, Massa2shits

2008-10-17T09:16:00.003-04:00

This one's for you Twila! ;)

Smile, it's Friday!

2008-10-17T08:45:00.002-04:00

Auntie Katie's brownies~YUM!

2008-10-16T09:57:00.002-04:00

Just kidding, it's a donut...but I thought it was funny.

Stampede!

2008-10-15T09:46:00.005-04:00

My little Kindergartener was trampled on her way out to recess...

Reilly was very brave and got fixed up at the nurse's office and went right back out to recess.

It broke my heart getting the phone call from the nurse, but she assured me that Reilly was okay. I say these things happen, unfortunately.

Daddy is NOT too happy though! (he wants to find out who the little boy's dad is!) ?!?!?! ;(

My poor baby, so pitiful! :(

Farm Fun

2008-10-13T08:27:00.018-04:00

We stopped by Marini Farm yesterday w/ my sister Katie and her rugrats. My kids look forward to this place all year. We made our way through the corn maze and got some great fall pics...it's always a great time.

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We paid a visit to friends of ours on Friday afternoon who now live on a farm. This is the real deal kind of farm, no bells & whistles, no hired help. They're just normal working people who happen to love animals. They've become sort of an animal sancuary, they have a hard time saying no to any new addition. The most interesting part is that they're learning as they go along. This is all new to them. It looked like tough work alright, but it must be amazing to live alongside all of these animals. We had so much fun! Thanks Bob, Dianne, Dana & Dom. xoxo

This pic is for my sister Mary..."aren't I cute, splurrrrrt!".

Just a Friday afternoon...

2008-10-10T15:41:00.004-04:00

Reilly went on her first school field trip today. She went to Applecrest Farm to enjoy all the fun that they offer (great place!). She picked some apples and chose a cute little pumpkin. Carrying that little pumpkin around was very tiring for lil miss Reilly though and she's quite exhausted. She wanted to decorate it as soon as she got through the door though. She had a fun-filled day! Field trips ROCK!

Caragh loves to paint w/ these paint pens (best invention EVER!). Mess FREE!

Emmet~look at that face! He'll be 7 yrs old this winter!

Sisters

2008-10-09T14:34:00.002-04:00

There's something about the time right after baths when the kids are clean, settled and quiet. Reilly, Caragh, a warm blanket, a Care Bears episode and ahhhh...all is well.
I thought this sight was pretty cute: Caragh fast asleep and the both of them wearing my t-shirts to bed. I just love little girls.
Check out the beautiful blanket that Erin made me for my birthday. We LOVE it! Thanks to you, my sis! xoxo

I just love this little chubby face! ♥

Personality Profile

2008-10-08T09:15:00.003-04:00

This is a real test given by the human relations department at many of the major corporations today. It's only ten simple questions, so... Grab a pencil and paper and keep track of your answers.

1. When do you feel your best?
a. In the morning
b. During the afternoon and early evening
c. Late at night

2. You usually walk
a. Fairly fast, with long steps
b. Fairly fast, with short, quick steps
c. Less fast, head up, looking the world in the faced. Less fast, head down
e. Very slowly

3. When talking to people you
a. Stand with your arms folded
b. Have your hands clasped
c. Have one or both your hands on your hips
d. Touch or push the person to whom you are talking
e. Play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair

4. When relaxing, you sit with
a. Your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
b. Your legs crossed
c. Your legs stretched out or straight
d. One leg curled under you

5. When something really amuses you, you react with
a. A big, appreciative laugh
b. A laugh, but not a loud one
c. A quiet chuckle
d. A sheepish smile

6. When you go to a party or social gathering you
a. Make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
b. Make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
c. Make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed

7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're interrupted. Do you..
a. Welcome the break
b. Feel extremely irritated
c. Vary between these two extremes

8. Which of the following colors do you like most?
a. Red or orange
b. Black
c. Yellow or light blue
d. Green
e. Dark blue or purple
f. White
g. Brown or gray

9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep, you lie
a. Stretched out on your back
b. Stretched out face down on your stomach
c. On your side, slightly curled
d. With your head on one arm
e. With your head under the covers

10. You often dream that you are
a. Falling
b. Fighting or struggling
c. Searching for something or somebody
d. Flying or floating
e. You usually have dreamless sleep
f. Your dreams are always pleasant

Points:
1. a. 2 b. 4 c. 6
2. a. 6 b. 4 c. 7 d. 2 e. 1
3. a. 4 b. 2 c. 5 d. 7 e. 6
4. a. 4 b. 6 c. 2 d. 1
5. a. 6 b. 4 c. 3 d. 5 e. 2
6. a. 6 b. 4 c. 2
7. a. 6 b. 2 c. 4
8. a. 6 b. 7 c. 5 d. 4 e. 3 f. 2 g. 1
9. a. 7 b. 6 c. 4 d. 2 e. 1
10. a. 4 b. 2 c. 3 d. 5 e. 6 f. 1

Now add up the total number of points.

Over 60 points: Others see you as someone they should "handle with care" You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involved with you.

51 to 60 points: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.

41 to 50 points: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.

31 to 40 points: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful and practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest...Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over it if that trust is ever broken.

21 to 30 points: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.

Under 21 points: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive, someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions and who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything. They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don't exist. Some people think you're boring. Only those who know you well know that you aren't.

No apologies...these things are fun!
I scored a 36, how about you?

♥ Goofy Girlies ♥

2008-10-06T09:09:00.012-04:00

♥♥♥ love you girls!

Finish The Sentence Survey

2008-10-03T10:55:00.002-04:00

I know, 2 surveys back to back but they do keep blogland fresh & fun and it's so easy to participate...

My ex...is the world's worst driver

Maybe I should...finally drop about 20 lbs and be happy once and for all

I love...food (see above~haha)

People would say that I'm...a neat freak

I don't understand...how people can be so easily offended

When I wake up in the morning...I swear and could almost cry

I lost...my cellphone a few months back and it still irks me

Life is full of...heartache but also joy

My past is...what makes me me

I get annoyed when...people are rude

Parties are...stressful

I wish...my brother was still w/ us

Dogs...are funny

Cats...make me sneeze and itch

Tomorrow...I'm OFF! No work!

I have low tolerance...w/ alcohol

If I had a million dollars...I'd pay my bills on time

I'm totally terrified...of wildlife that could eat me

Questions People Never Ask Survey

2008-10-02T13:03:00.004-04:00

When's the last time you ran?
3 nights ago, I went wogging (walk-jogging) I'm hot like dat!

What are you dreading right now?
Parent Night tonight at Reilly's school, have to put make-up on and pants that button

Who last grabbed your ass?
Erin ;)

Do you eat raw cookie dough?
not really, maybe just to taste the batter

Have you ever kicked a vending machine?
NO, I'd look like a weirdo!

How do you eat oreos?
just a couple bites and it's all gooood

Are you cocky?
I can be proud

Could you live without a computer?
NO

Do you wear your shoes in the house?
yes, always something on these tootsies

Who or what sleeps with you?
Jay, a kid or two

At what age did you find out that Santa wasn't real?
maybe @ 10, I'm sure Mary told me. She also explained the birds and the bees in detail as we waited in the car while Ma grocery shopped in Chelsea. Thanks big sis!

How many phones, house phones and cell phones are in your house?
4 phones, 3 cellphones

What do you do when you're sad?
cry, go for a walk, be alone

Who would you call first if you won the lottery?
my parents

What jewelry are you wearing?
Hungry For Life bracelet, silver sister bracelet from Katie, wedding rings, spoon ring also from Katie

What's the first thing you do when you get online?
check my email

How do most people spell your name?
Kelly...can drive me nuts

Where do you work?
at home

What are you doing tomorrow?
working, then off to the football game to watch Cass cheer

Is Justin Timberlake becoming the next Michael Jackson?
never

Favorite name for a girl?
Shane

Favorite name for a boy?
Shane or James

When was the last time you left your house?
went to visit my parents last night

Do you return your cart?
always try to unless that cutie cart boy is nice enough to take it from me

Would you survive in prison?
yes, I may even like it~haha

If all of your friends were going on a road trip, who would most likely overpack?
Mary! She'd bring everything just in case anyone might need something. Mother Hen and we love her for that! :)

Do you know anyone with the same name as you?
Kelly Ault (luv ha!)

What's the last thing you purchased?
groceries

Do your siblings ever pay for stuff for you?
YES! We get eachother.

What brand are your pants right now?
Gap sweats

What irritates you most on the internet?
snail's pace

Do you own expensive perfume/cologne?
never, no frills for this gal

Do you get your hair cut every month?
every 2 or so

Do you go online everyday?
YES!!!

Come on, you know the drill...have some Fall Fun! xoxo

Apple Pie Time!

2008-09-30T09:14:00.007-04:00

There's nothing like baking an apple pie w/ the kids this time of year. It's just seems extra special. Their excitement and the smell of apple pie in general seems like a tradition of mother and child(ren) that must go back to the pilgrim days.

Do you think the lil pilgrim children acted like Caragh? Maybe...
Did the pilgrim Moms use Pillsbury Pie Crusts and threaten to send their lil pilgrim children to their bunk every 5 minutes? Hmmmm???

Did the older pilgrim child take a bite of this special apple pie and tell her pilgrim mother, "this stinks!"? I wonder... ;)

5 little monkeys lounging in my bed...

2008-09-22T20:03:00.005-04:00

Alana, Elise, Caragh, Reilly & Mia ♥♥♥♥♥

End of summer fun...

2008-09-16T10:28:00.024-04:00

We headed to Orland, Maine for Labor Day weekend. This may have been the best family trip we've ever been on! There were so many laughs, so many great people, memories that will last us a lifetime!

My sister Katie's in-laws were the best hosts and Derek's grandparents camp may be the cooloest place on earth. I tell ya, looking at these pics makes me want to be there and we hope to get back!

Our cottage on Toddy Pond. We didn't quite know what we were getting into. We figured we'd be roughing it a bit and I had the attitude that I'd just assume we were going camping...thankfully I was well-prepared! The cottage was very outdated, very smelly and very small BUT I'd stay there again now that I know that because of those things, this trip was that much more fun!

view of Toddy Pond

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Now we're at Gram & Gramp's camp, where we spent most of our time. This place was a piece of heaven. I could only dream of having what the Betts family has in this place. There are so many years worth of memories, great people having fun, GOOD food...just the best of everything! I'll never forget it!

Thanks to Derek's Gram & Gramps...what great leaders of such a wonderful family! Thank you for being so kind and letting us spend our weekend w/ you and the family! xoxo

Alyx, Cass & Lizzy spent their time around the fire, playing cards and boating. These girls had such a blast!

Gramps & Derek

Dylan, Rex & Reilly...they don't make 'em much cooler than Dylan!!! ;)

...and it was time to say goodbye. What an awesome weekend we all had thanks to Katie, Derek & the Betts family! ♥

************************************
Caragh's 1st day of pre-school!

Reilly's 1st day of Kindergarten...thrilled to be going, not thrilled about my picture taking.

Wish I had a pic of Cass but she flat out refused. She looked beautiful though and was off to 10th grade!

**************************************

Caragh's 1st day of ballet

The girls off to a Princess Party...some princesses, huh!?!?!

and w/ that, summer has come to an end and here we go Fall!

I'm Baaaaaack!

2008-09-09T21:07:00.004-04:00

Don't get too excited...I only have this one pic for now. We are super busy around here w/ all 3 in school/pre-school this fall. I have a hard time w/ change and get pretty dang overwhelmed, so blogging was just one more thing to do. I'm getting all these new schedule changes in order though and feeling better. I figured if I threw this one post out there, maybe it'd help me get back into the swing of ol' blogging!

Cass...isn't she a beauty?!?!

♥

The day has come!

2008-08-25T08:23:00.009-04:00

We've talked about this day for so many years...Kelsey behind the wheel w/ Cassidy in the passenger seat! Wow, where'd the time go? Look at them now!

Good job Kelsey! We are so proud of the two of you! You are such great girls!

some action shots...soccer stars???

Emmet ♥

...had to do this!

2008-08-22T08:16:00.003-04:00

21 Questions

1. Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 18, find line 4. Write down what it says. If there are no books in the room you are in, confess to being a literary moron.
"passengers prevented him from doing so, and Longfellow"

2. Stretch your left arm out as far as you can. What do you feel?
closet door

3. What is the last Olympic event you watched on TV?
mens gymnastics

4. WITHOUT LOOKING, guess what time it is:
8:30am

5. Now look at the clock, what is the actual time?
8:19am

6. When did you last step outside? What were you doing?
last night, putting bikes away

7. Before you came to this website, what did you look at?
ecard from Judy Palladino

8. Did you dream last night? If so, what was the theme?
can't remember

9. What is one thing hanging on the wall of your bathroom (besides the mirror)?
floral paintings

10. Seen anything weird lately?
small frog suctioned to my front door window

11. What do you think of the rock group Kiss?
used to scare me bigtime

12. If you became a multi-millionaire overnight, what would you buy first?
house on the ocean

13. Tell me something about your feet.
I have my dad's feet!!!

14. If you could change one thing about the world, what would you do?
innocent people being hurt by psychos

15. Can you imitate any famous people (and do it well)?
Natalie Merchant--singing

16. Would you ever consider living abroad?
yes, when the kids are grown maybe

17. Are you scared of bugs?
yes, hate 'em, they ruin everything

18. Do you know how to yo-yo?
probably not

19. What is your best culinary dish?
baked ziti

20. List three of your least favorite words.
plop, stellar, rad

21. Do you sneeze several times in a row or just once?
OMG, several times!

My 1 Photo Interview

2008-08-19T08:01:00.013-04:00

*see Betts-Levine blog for details

1. Where do you live?

2. What color are your eyes?

3. What does your mailbox look like?

4. What is one part of your daily routine?

5. Who is one of your favorite people?

6. What comforts you?

7. What are you doing tonight?

8. What time is it?

9. Who are you talking to?

10. What are you thinking?

That was F-U-N!!! Good one K8ie!

Foam Frolic 2008

2008-08-15T21:03:00.012-04:00

We made it to Ipswich's Annual Foam Frolic today and it was AWESOME!

Mary & I took Cassidy, Kelsey, Colin & Brendan way back when (years ago!). We've never forgotten what fun it was, we still talk about it often. We just never made it back!

The town always seems to tell us at the last minute~I usually read about it after the fact.

Well, this year was different...I was lucky enough to catch the little blurb in yesterday's paper and WE WERE THERE! I was working, so that meant 4 extra kids but I wouldn't have missed it. It wasn't easy counting 6 heads for that hour and a half, but boy was it worth it. These kids had a BLAST! Daddy was even able to stop by for a quick minute to see what all this fun was about!

Kendall, Caragh, Reilly & Madison

Utter excitement!

Daddy, Caragh & Reilly w/ Ava and Madison ♥

26 Things TAG

2008-08-06T13:22:00.007-04:00

Here is a fun challenge that Katie started today called 26 Things. The idea is to take one picture for each letter of the alphabet through a game of blog-tag.

Here are the rules/directions:

1. If you are tagged, you are responsible for taking 1 picture of an item that begins with your letter. Be creative! Anything goes.

2. Post the picture on your blog.

3. Tag someone new with the next letter of the alphabet.

4. Since there are 26 letters, someone may be tagged multiple times. That is perfectly fine, but try to spread the love if you can.

5. If someone doesn't want to play, they should pass. Tag someone else in their place.

Let's see how long it takes to complete this project...

Now, onto our 2nd letter, the bodacious letter B.

The timing on this couldn't have been more perfect...B is for BIRTHDAY!!!

This gal is 34! Yikes!!! (and without make-up!)

Here's to you Katie!

The kids enjoyed surprising me w/ a cake & balloon. Cassidy and the little ones also made me some heart-shaped choc. chip cookies!

Thanks everyone for the birthday wishes! Love you all, every single one of ya! ♥♥♥

I now tag Mary Feener to showcase the letter C!

Forgive me!

2008-07-29T09:20:00.017-04:00

...and the worst blogger award goes to ***ME**!

I tell ya, I have been soooo busy this summer, blogging is just another item on my neverending list of things to do.

Here are some pics from the past few weeks:

Our first day out on the boat...

Storyland w/ Auntie Katie, Rex & Reese. Lots o' fun!

Twas a Happy 4th!

2008-07-05T22:02:00.031-04:00

Plain and simple~love, laughter and good times. I wish all our loved ones were w/ us to celebrate.

Katie being Katie

Cowboy steaks for the MEN ;)

***************************************************
The fireworks at Pavillion Beach were just awesome. We arrived just as the sun was setting and knew this was a time that would be remembered...

******************************************************
This morning we joined the town parade and festivities, which were rained out yesterday.

the 3 year old girl race:

5 year old girl race:

Daddy & Caragh in the egg and spoon race:

Daddy & Reilly:

Hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th! xoxo

What a day!

2008-07-01T10:08:00.026-04:00

We had such a GREAT time w/ the Maxwells yesterday, from beginning to end!

Thanks for all the fun girls! ♥

We spent the morning at Pavillion Beach. There was a slight overcast but that was fine w/ us. The water was warm and the kids were playing in the sand and rocks, just having a blast.

We're off to look for cool stones, shells and snails. FUN!

We headed back to my house for a much needed bath and more fun:

Cousin hug

We ordered take-out for dinner, but realized that there was one of us girls missing...Cassidy. :( She'll be home from VA tomorrow.

(this pic's for you Cass!) xoxo

Happy Birthday to Jeannie, Happy Birthday to you! Brownies~YUMM-O!

We then blasted my Mama Mia CD and had a dance party...GAYHART STYLE!!! ;)

Love you guys, always GOOD TIMES! ♥♥♥

Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday!!!

2008-07-01T09:35:00.001-04:00

Cade, Jeannie & Alana~

May your birthday bring
You as much happiness
As you give to everyone
Who knows you
Happy Birthday!

Occupied, satisfied & civilized...

2008-06-27T20:42:00.008-04:00

You gotta love little girls...put out a few puzzles, crayons, games, etc. and all is good.

Hillary is quite the clown lately!

Natalie & Hillary are so kind and patient w/ their lil' sister ♥

Caragh is fighting this stomach bug that's working it's way through all our households. The Maxwells were a day before us and Rex and Brooke were the day after. Luckily, it's a quick one.

We love hangin' w/ the Maxwell Gals ♥♥♥ (and another ♥ in about 9 months!) Gal? We don't yet know!

Good Times

2008-06-26T07:50:00.009-04:00

Megann has come and gone and boy, did her visit go by quick! We had lots of fun, as usual and we miss her tons!

Here are some pics of the fam out to dinner Tuesday night at The Blue Marlin in Essex (one of our favorite places to eat) w/ Nana Coughlin, Auntie Mary & Madi~

Cass has finally gotten contacts! Yay, very exciting!

Megs & Madi ♥

Here's Megann on her way to the airport Wednesday morning :(

Cass & Megs headed to VA! Watch out!

2008-06-25T08:09:00.002-04:00

Why I Blog Questionnaire

Thanks alot Katie, this is almost as bad as writing a high school essay! And I always passed those in late but I guess I'll get crackalackin' just for you. (you are cuter than Mr. Sangermano.)

At the bottom of this entry I will tag three people, who should then tag three more people, and so on. You know the drill.

1. Why did you start a blog?
My sister Katie introduced me to the Blogworld. She started hers, which I found fascinating and read daily, often checked for new posts hourly. She hounded me to start my own but I always said no way, I couldn't share my thoughts w/ the world. Then Jeannie started one and I had been reading Robin's and realized that there was nothing to be so afraid of. I gave it a try, deciding to keep my blog light and simple.

2. What did/do you hope to accomplish with your blogging?
Family is so important to me and this is such a great way for everyone to see the kids grow and know what they're/we're up to. It's kind of like scrapbooking too and much easier! If this whole blog thing lasts, my kids will have their childhood right here in front of them, just a few clicks away. Awwww...

3. Have you found that you don't post as much as you did when you started? I post about the same, not the greatest blogger around. I enjoyed it more in the beginning but lately it feels like more of a job. I know that my sisters get PO'd looking at the same post for more than a few days and oh, I'll hear it!!! I'm a huge people pleaser. ;)

4. If yes, why not? I am rather busy these days, so even taking pics can be a chore.

5. How important are comments to you? I love comments, otherwise what's the point? Feedback is great! Better be positive though...wouldn't want to unleash on some poor soul.

6. Do you ever find yourself wishing people would not always leave comments that agree with you? weird question...huh? I would hate a hater for sure and would have to hunt them down and kill them. haha

7. Do you comment on other people's blogs a lot, sometimes, or very little? I try to always leave a comment. Sometimes I'm in my funny-I-don't-care-what-people-think-of-me mood where I'll leave a wacky comment and sit here and laugh at myself all day long.
When I'm in a more serious mood, I'm always sincere and try to let that show. I can say alot through these blogs and I love that. If I'm in a lazy mood and all I can come up w/ are generic comments about a post, I'll pass and wait until I get some good energy flowing. I'm not crazy about those generic comments, although I am guilty of a few but I do fight it.

8. What determines why you don't post a comment on someone else's blog?
Not every post requires a comment, sometimes there are no words.
Sometimes the author is so wrapped up in portraying this lala land they live in and that irks me. I've never been to lala land! :( Instead of being an open hater, I read, say a few profanities to myself and move on. I would never ruin someone's day by writing anything hateful. Ohhh, I'd like to though but that would make me look like I'm in need of the Lord and I'd have all kinds of Texans(HA!) praying for me.

9. Do you have more than one blog? Where? nope, thankfully

10. Do you read random blogs either off of random blogger or friend's lists? YES, I know more people now than I ever did...they just don't know me. Let's call them my virtual friends.

I now tag the following three bloggers: Erin Lyle, Mary Shaughnessy and Jeannie (mama) Maxwell.

Katie, you owe me! That bit!

NSMC Cancer Walk 2008

2008-06-23T08:41:00.022-04:00

Team Hungry For Life!

What a day! So many emotions, so many good people, so much love.

I know Dennis was there with us and loving every minute of it!

Dad started us off w/ a full breakfast~thanks Dad, I love you!

We owe the day to Katie, thanks for all the hard work and planning. It couldn't have been more perfect!

Our little walkers

Cass, Lizzy & Megann

1st group filled the bus!

Jen and family from Danvers. They heard our story and came out to support us. They are such great people, along w/ Phyllis from East Boston and so many others! It was so nice to meet you guys! You have helped our family try to heal. It's people like you who have made it a little easier.

We're off~6.2 miles ahead of us

Elise walking for her Daddy

Alana

Uncle Ronny and Auntie Theresa (and family), you all have been so special throughout these difficult times. We love you!

The after-party...

Thanks for all your hard work Ma, I love you!

Thank you Team Hungry For Life! I wish I had pictures of each and every one of you. It was an AMAZING day!

Megann's here!

2008-06-20T08:22:00.005-04:00

YAY!

*Reilly must have seen a bug.

Here ya'll go...

2008-06-17T08:44:00.018-04:00

Okay, okay, I finally sat my butt down and downloaded lots of pics from the past few weeks.

Wow, you people (Katie!) can be vicious! ;)

I hope they're to your satisfaction Peaches.

Here are some pics from Cass' last day of school , last day as a freshman BASH last night~

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Our trip to the Aquarium w/ Erin, Katie & families and Alana & Elise...I gotta say that the train ride was the best part. Well, that and my discovery of McDonald's sweet tea! It had me talkin' like a southern belle! haha~you had to be there!

Sorry to say that the aquarium bit the big one, hence the one pic!

We had a great day in Boston though and the kids had so much fun.

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Reilly graduates from pre-school! These aren't the best pics, but I couldn't leave this major event out. She's off to kindergarten in the fall~full days, Monday-Friday! Hip, hip, HOORAY! Just kidding-I'll miss the little bossy, troublemaking, manipulative, starving all the time, tantrum throwing, slap happy bugger! When she's not doing those things, she's real pleasant. ;)

Reilly w/ her big buddies Amy & Hannah

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Big sister Katie and her friend, Daniel, came for a visit. It was such a nice week w/ them here. He's from Ohio and really enjoyed Ipswich, Boston & Maine.

I thought he'd think we were CRAZY for sure but I guess we made a decent impression b/c he had so much fun and really wants to come back. So cute!

We love you Katie and we miss you both! Great to meet you Daniel, hope to see you again soon!

xoxo
The girls had him wrapped!

It was so hard to see them go. Reilly cried all morning as they packed up. It's always been hard when they leave but to now have the little ones cry and ask for them daily really stinks. But, I get the feeling that we'll see more of them as they get older though. We really hope so.

This past visit, Katie called me on a Tuesday to tell me that she was coming on Thursday and I LOVED it. I loved that she felt like this was her home too and that she's welcome any time. We've told them both that since they were little and now that they're grown, we're seeing that they truly know that.

Megann is flying in tomorrow afternoon for the week~we are so excited!

Cass will be flying back to VA w/ her for another week of fun.

Doesn't get much better than that for these girls!

Blog Slacker

2008-06-12T09:00:00.001-04:00

YES, that's me. I will download some pics from the last couple weeks today and give y'all a lil' somthin' somthin'.

Reilly's Dance Recital

2008-06-02T08:46:00.010-04:00

After all her hard work, it was time for the big show! It was a very exciting day~here are some pics from the dress rehersal and recital.

You'll notice in these recital pics below that her make-up job was a little bit different than the day of rehersal. I STUPIDLY (DUH!!!) sent her backstage to wait for her dance number w/ a tube of red lipstick tucked in her bag. I thought that maybe the volunteers who were there to watch these kids may want to apply some fresh lipstick right before she went on...well, Reilly apparently took it upon herself to fix her lips and cheeks to look "more beautiful". She even helped some friends out. Pretty darn funny I guess and not too, too bad thank goodness.

Katie is in town again for a visit and got to see the show!

Thank you Nana and Auntie Mary F. for coming and for all the gifts!

Birthday Girl

2008-05-30T10:12:00.002-04:00

Happy 6th Birthday to my niece Elise!!!
We all love you so much! You are beautiful on the inside and on the outside!
We're so proud of you!!! xoxo

Memorial Day BBQ

2008-05-27T09:43:00.023-04:00

We had lots of fun at Nana & Papa's house. We ate, we swam, we braved slip'n'slide, we hung out and enjoyed some family fun.
Thanks for the huge spread Ma & Dad, you guys always go above and beyond for us all. It's always a great time!

Hillary, Natalie, Caragh, Cade, Mallory, Reilly & Mia

Cade, Erin & Reed

Maw & Paw

Alana braved the very COLD water!

Mia the ham

Please don't kill me Erin, I just thought these were priceless.

*****Oh, she did threaten to kill me and I was forced to remove her slip'n'slide pic~sorry

Emmet loved his day of outdoor freedom

Hey, maybe it's a RICH thang!

me & Mia w/ Emmet

Jodi ♥

Uncle Jimmy w/ his lil' buddy

Great day, love you all! xoxo

Memorial Day Parade

2008-05-26T19:49:00.019-04:00

We had a very busy day today from start to finish. This morning, Cass marched in the Memorial Day Parade as part of the band. We followed the parade all around town and made a few stops along the way. It was a fun morning, we had a really nice time.

This afternoon, we went to Nana & Papa's for a cookout and to SWIM! It was a blast and I'll post all of those pictures tomorrow~there are a ton.

For now, here are some parade pics...

Our friends Katie & Josh, w/ their boys Mark and James

Reilly & Mark

We stopped off downtown at the Riverwalk. The girls LOVE hanging out here.

I need to learn to smile bigger...and get more flattering sunglasses! I wish someone told me I looked pretty goofy in them! ;)

Can you spot the Coughlin girls?

Dancing queen xoxo

WAY TO GO CASS!!!

2008-05-23T10:05:00.001-04:00

We attended the Ipswich High School Annual Honors Reception last night.

This kid makes us PROUD! Keep up the good work Cass, there are great things to come for you! xoxo

Thank you Auntie Jeannie for watching the little ones, they would have never lasted! Thanks for always being there whenever we need you and for being the cool Auntie.

Hill & Cass ♥♥

Maxwell Mania

2008-05-22T08:43:00.010-04:00

We always have fun w/ the Maxwell girls and get such a laugh when we're together...all 8 of us CHICKS!

Mallory & Reilly ♥♥

Hillary ♥

Natalie ♥

Sleepy Caragh ♥

Natalie & Reilly ♥♥

Cassidy's Slumber Party

2008-05-21T10:39:00.008-04:00

We counted all the ways she celebrated her 15th this year and let's just say she's one lucky teenager! Here's yet another shindig in honor of my first-born.
We love you Cass, you're a GOOD girl w/ GOOD friends. You make us proud and you're a great role model for your little sisters. xoxo

Russell Farm

2008-05-18T10:28:00.009-04:00

This is our favorite place to be and where we'll be almost every Friday afternoon from now until the fall. We'll be checking in on and feeding all of our animal friends.

Big Boy the ferocious pig...he's as big as a cow (no lie) and he bites!

Backyard Fun

2008-05-15T17:19:00.008-04:00

I love seeing these kids playing outdoors, observing nature...freaking out whenever a bug comes anywhere near them!

Catchin' Up

2008-05-13T10:46:00.021-04:00

Yes, I've been a blog slacker! I will now overload you w/ all the pics that were taken the past couple weeks, or shall I say taken weeks ago...picture slacker too! ;)

The Coughlin's came over on a couple occasions for birthday celebrations for Cassidy & Katie~

Badminton Match

Katie and her lil' sisters, always in her arms!
Alcopolcos, the girls being serenaded for their birthdays~

Love you all! xoxo

Happy Birthday to 3 very special GALS ♥♥♥

2008-05-05T11:42:00.007-04:00

We love you so much Cassidy. You have always made us proud! 15 years old!

Kelsey, my Goddaughter who is so very special to me...Happy Sweet 16!

Happy 40th Jodi. We love you so much! xoxo

Lots of fun...

2008-05-04T10:45:00.008-04:00

Yup, there's been some fun going on around here! Our daughter Katie is in town for a visit. She just finished up her sophomore year at Lee University in TN. We are sooooo happy to have her here and we are having a blast!

The Lyles hung out w/ us last night and Auntie Erin baked Cass a birthday cake. Cass will be 15 tomorrow! Wow, how time flies! We had a great night~watched the Kentucky Derby (all two minutes), BBQ'd and sang Happy Birthday. What FUN!

Today, the Coughlins are coming for some Chinese food and a guarenteed good time! I'll post pics of that later!

I'm thankful for all our visitors b/c this weather STINKS!

Our oldest and youngest, ages 20 & 3! Caragh giving her big sister some beauty treatment.

Caragh up to her old tricks again!

Cade & Reilly taking a breather, momentarily anyway!

Reed-O

Happy Birthday Cassidy! xxoo

Nothing like a new baby!

2008-04-27T10:31:00.006-04:00

Yesterday, we paid a visit to (barged in on) the Betts-Levine household to give baby Reese some lovin'. Thanks for a really fun time guys, I know how exhausted you all are.
She's AWESOME and I'm so happy for you. It was nice to see your happy little family!

Great to catch up w/ you Grammie Patty~see you in July! xoxo

Reese Violet~

♥ My Girls ♥

2008-04-26T11:24:00.004-04:00

Kooky kids 2...

2008-04-20T20:10:00.006-04:00

Just passing time in the car...these wackos were ousted from the restaurant and sent off to the car w/ me while Jay & Cass waited to pay the bill. This seems to be the drill lately. Caragh can be brutal! Just tonight, out at dinner, she shouted, "Daddy has a poop in his butt!". !?!?!?!?!?!?
Maybe we should just wait out this phase AT HOME!

This is what we were dealing with...and they loved it!

Weekend Outdoor F-U-N!

2008-04-20T19:52:00.009-04:00

We were outdoors ALL weekend and wow, was it GREAT!
I don't ever remember appreciating spring days like this quite as much.
It felt so good to be out in the sun, to watch the kids play and to just enjoy...

We took a walk to the park~

Cass' idea of family time ;)

The kids just hanging out, loving spring!

Reese Violet Betts-Levine

2008-04-19T10:42:00.005-04:00

Here's the lil' bundle of JOY!!!
6 lbs 13 oz, 19 3/4 inches~a peanut compared to brother bear!

Mama & baby are doing great and she is ADORABLE!

Welcome To The World, Reese!

2008-04-17T09:24:00.003-04:00

Reese Violet Betts-Levine will be entering the world sometime after 11am this morning!
There is nothing more exciting than a new baby!
I wish Katie & Derek the best of luck. We LOVE you guys and can't wait to meet the little princess!Family of 3, no more. ♥♥♥♥

Out cold!

2008-04-14T22:19:00.004-04:00

Will someone put this kid to bed?!?!
Caragh fought her afternoon nap the other day and this is what I found @ 7pm (mid-snack)...

Kooky kids...

2008-04-12T19:14:00.007-04:00

We are READY for this nice weather!
It's our first spring in the house, it's exciting to see what blooms, exciting to have some nice outside play space for the kids, it's gonna be a great!

Me & My Shadow...

2008-04-08T15:46:00.004-04:00

What a beautiful day!

Reilly Rocks!

2008-04-04T09:03:00.008-04:00

This is what I woke up to this morning, a surprise from Reilly~

Breakfast set up for her, Caragh & Mommy.

Does it get much better than this?!

Ahhh, the simple things.

xoxo

Girls' Weekend...with kids!

2008-03-31T08:32:00.007-04:00

My sisters and I headed to Bartlett, NH this weekend for a much needed getaway. This house never saw us coming~15 kids under one roof! Needless to say, we had a great, crazy, chaotic but FUN weekend and we hope the kids remember trips like this forever. Love you all!

Happy Birthday Reilly & Brooke!

2008-03-27T09:28:00.005-04:00

Here are some pics of Reilly & Caragh this morning, ringing in Reilly's #5!

ROCKSTARS!

Happy Birthday Brooke! We love you! Have a super day! ♥

Egg Hunt

2008-03-23T19:05:00.010-04:00

The Easter Bunny hid over 150 eggs at Nana & Papa's house! The kids had so much fun on their egg hunt!

Natalie Jean
Jack, Natalie & Alana

Cass w/ Mallory ♥

Brendan, Elise & Reilly

Football fun~Alana, Brendan, Jack & Elise

Rex w/ the ball, Jack, Alana, Elise & Erin

Great day, LOVE you all!

Easter

2008-03-23T10:10:00.007-04:00

Easter Eve, coloring eggs. Like her cousins (Colin & Kelsey), Cass was too cool to join in on the fun this year (she's in the background). Amazing how kids change in just a year, ages 14 and 15 are so completely different.
Oh and is it just our family or does everyone end up w/ a child in tears, some fighting, yelling, screaming, spilled egg dye, etc.? Yup, it happens every year and this year was no exception.

Easter morning...

Happy Easter everyone~we love you! ♥

Finally!

2008-03-22T19:15:00.004-04:00

It was sooooo nice to be outside today. We were able to take out the bikes and the kids had such a great time. Of course, within 5 minutes of being out in the driveway, I turned by back and Reilly headed straight across the street on her bike. She thought it was a riot. I didn't. I told her that I was so angry that she did that and how dangerous it was, blah, blah, blah. Then I said, Daddy is going to be soooo sad. She goes to walk away, then turns around and says, "Well, don't tell him then!", with a duh look on her face.
Kids...they've got all the answers!

Think Spring!

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

Well, it's here. The flowers are hung and now we wait...we wait for this weather to change, we wait for the green grass to grow, we wait for the trees & flowers to bloom, we wait for that spring fling feelin'. (not fling as in fling~haha)

Where are you spring?

St. Patrick's Day cupcakes~

2008-03-18T08:43:00.010-04:00

Any excuse to bake cupcakes!

26 Questions...

2008-03-17T22:36:00.004-04:00

Here it is...the latest installment of Blog Tag.
26 is a random number and these are definitely some random questions, so here goes. C'mon...you know you love it.

1. What was your first car? I can't even remember the answer to that!? I know it was Mary's car and was given to me b/c she left for Germany...hmmm, I have the worst memory. It's actually scary to not remember things that most ppl remember for life! I loved it and loved the freedom. I don't think it lasted too long though.

2. Do you have any nicknames? Kags, my brothers have been calling me that since childhood, only them though. Jay calls me Kel. I've also been called Jelly Belly, Jelly Buns, Jelly, etc.

3. Have you ever been scuba diving? I went snorkling in Aruba and I had minor panick attacks between the breathing through that mouth piece and the fear of seeing something really big down there...I resorted to just putting the mask on and going under for about 30 seconds at a time. Jay was my lookout for sharks...yeah, who was I kidding?!?! He would have loved the exposure! "Honeymoon Gone Bad...When Animals Attack IV".
Anyway no, I would NEVER scuba dive! Not a chance!

4. What's your least favorite color? teal blue, just hate it.

5. Would you ever go skydiving? probably, but would most likely have to be pushed out of the plane, while on all 4's. I know my legs would give out walking over to the open door.

6. What toothpaste do you use? AquaFresh Extreme Clean, I'm very into suds & lather and wowie is all I have to say!

7. What's the last movie you saw? couldn't even tell you...I could list a # of movies that I've been meaning to see for years now though! Just never find myself in the mood to waste tow hours on pure fantasy, I'm such a realist.

8. What do you want to know about the future? If there's an afterlife

9. Do you need to do laundry? not really, usually keep up w/ it pretty well

10. Do you listen to the radio? not really, maybe when I clean the house. I like silence in the car, maybe talk radio. Sadly, music is just more noise sometimes.

11. Where were you when 9/11 happened? I was working at a middle school and we got word of it and were able to watch bits and pieces on TV throughout the school day, avoiding letting the kids know what was truly going on. I went home that day and really saw what was happening and was numb for weeks, cried every day for months. That was the first tragedy of my life and I'm still not quite over it. I think life moved on too quickly for me afterwards, I could have used some serious downtime after that. I still could never watch a movie/show about it b/c it brings it all back. I also have trouble going to large public places/events where there will be lots of people. I was seriously traumatized by 9/11 and most of all heartbroken.

12. What color are your bed sheets? boring beige, one of my favorite colors...haha

13. What's your ringtone? Come on Katie, it's not that bad!!! It's the sound of a cruise ship horn w/ seagulls and the like. I enjoy it but she has made me very self-concious about it. I answer very quickly in public places and yes, I have noticed others looking around like, what the h***!

14. Do you have any obsessions right now? yeah, my weight...it ain't doin' me crap!

15. Do you watch cartoons? nah...realist, remember?

16. Do you like sushi? no, raw fish...hurl

17. If your significant other was a superhero, what would his/her name be? haha...Jay would be Mr. Routine, Hiiiiiii-Ohhhhh...the Man Who Keeps It Steady. Yup from the time his eyes open at 5 am, Jay is ready for his very standard day. Since he sleeps in just his Fruit of the Looms, he's got his loungewear neatly folded on the nightstand by his side of the bed. He's also got the slippers right by the bed so he can just sit up, turn to the right, swing his ol' legs around, get himself dressed in a flash. He then enjoys his coffee (which is set the night before) while reading the morning paper. By this time my cutie is ready for his daily you know what like clock-work(I assume nude so he can then jump straight into the shower)~no need to waste precious time. He tidies up the kitchen and is pretty much off to work, returning home for the same standard lunch Monday through Friday: ham & cheese w/ extra mayo & mustard, salt & vinegar chips on the side. When the workday is done, Jay returns home, off come the work clothes and he's back into his loungwear. He finishes reading the paper, while two small children do anything to get his attention and eventually do. He'll hang w/ them, eat what's for dinner (could be a boiled boot and he wouldn't complain), watch TV for the rest of the night...until bedtime @ 9pm.
Then, my hubbie's standard day starts all over again tomorrow. Of course, there are a few minor changes every now and then w/ basketball a couple nights a week, but all in all this is the life of Jay. Anything out of this routine needs to be run by him about 3 days in advance or at least 9 hours. Jay lives a very simple life, which isn't to say that he's simple-minded, he's just a simple man who married a not so simple (but sort of) wife.

18. Do you enjoy sleeping late? I can sleep no later than 10 am and do whenever I get the chance, a couple times per month.

19. Who tells the best jokes? My Jay would think so, but he tells the same joke over and over to everyone we see and it irks me...they're usually dumb jokes to boot. I'm not a joke type of person. I love pranks though! OMG, do I!!!

20. Do you believe in karma? I hate the word karma b/c it's just so like karma, man but yes I do believe you get back what you give.

21. Do you like your eggs scrambled or sunny side up? scrambled I guess.

22. Do you collect anything? If so, what? not really

23. Name a song you can dance to. We Are Family...gets me up there every time!

24. Favorite concert you attended? I'd have to say Poison when I was a freshman. I think it was my first (again, bad memory!). I was just in awe!

25. What's your favorite invention? Cotton Gin, Eli Whitney??? j/k one of the few inventors I do remember from school. I think I'll say Simon Cowell for American Idol!!!

26. What do you like better: oranges or apples? I'll say oranges but neither of them really appeal to me. I love watermelon, bananas & grapes.

There you have it, Kelli 101. Do you still like me???

P-A-R-T-Y!!!

2008-03-17T08:39:00.011-04:00

Wow! We had an AWESOME time yesterday at Pump It Up, celebrating Reilly, Caragh & Brooke's birthdays. Saying we all had a blast is an understatement! The kids had so much fun and so did the adults! This place sure knows how to throw a party!

Thanks everyone, the kids had a very memorable birthday! Thanks Mary~same time, same place next year?!?! LOVED it!!! What a great time!

Happy Birthday Girls! xxooo

Speed racers~Mallory, Reed & Caragh

Rockin' Reilly

Mia & her big cousin Cassidy ♥

Erin & Reilly...deathmatch!

Kesley & Cassidy ready to rumble!

The family~love you all!

Birthday girls ♥♥♥

The Coughlin Family

The Reilly Show

Cassidy's Winter Cotillion

and she's off...

Pics from the weekend~

Happy New Year!

Weekend Fun

The Big Show

Kowloon's

Sweet 16!

Russell Farm

Dining al Fresco

YAY for spring!

EASTER

Coloring Easter Eggs

Big Sisters Are The Best

Strike A *SPRING* Pose!

This seems to be a pattern...

Miss Reilly Erin

Another Survey...

Sophomore Semi-Formal

So cool, so funny...

Happy Birthday Emmet!

THE SENSATIONS ALL STARS

Okay, okay!

Getting to know you II...

Catching up...

They take 3rd!!!

GO IPSWICH!

Lorraine's Survey

Getting to know you...

It's FRIDAY!

RUN!!!

Cheer Competition, Medford

Toothfairy & New Shoes

Halloween '08

Happy Halloween Y'all

Erin's Tag

We ♥ you Papa Jack!

Ipswich, Massa2shits

Smile, it's Friday!

Auntie Katie's brownies~YUM!

Stampede!

Farm Fun

Just a Friday afternoon...

Sisters

Personality Profile

♥ Goofy Girlies ♥

Finish The Sentence Survey

Questions People Never Ask Survey

Apple Pie Time!

5 little monkeys lounging in my bed...

End of summer fun...

I'm Baaaaaack!

The day has come!

...had to do this!

My 1 Photo Interview

Foam Frolic 2008

26 Things TAG

Forgive me!

Twas a Happy 4th!

What a day!

Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday!!!

Occupied, satisfied & civilized...

Good Times

NSMC Cancer Walk 2008

Megann's here!

Here ya'll go...

Blog Slacker

Reilly's Dance Recital

***Birthday Girl***

Memorial Day BBQ

Memorial Day Parade

WAY TO GO CASS!!!

Maxwell Mania

Cassidy's Slumber Party

Russell Farm

Backyard Fun

Catchin' Up

Happy Birthday to 3 very special GALS ♥♥♥

Strike A SPRING Pose!

Birthday Girl