The Edmondson Family

Fall Pictures

2008-11-19T05:40:00.002-05:00

First Day of Kindergarten

2008-11-19T05:39:00.000-05:00

2008-11-01T20:05:00.001-04:00

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The Great Schlep

2008-10-10T20:47:00.001-04:00

Mexican vacation

2008-08-24T10:56:00.005-04:00

We just got back from a week long vacation in the Riviera Maya, near Cancun. The kids had a great time swimming every day. It was our first time going to an all-inclusive resort, and I am not anxious to go to another one. Most of our friends love them, but we don't like being confined to our hotel for every meal. The best part of the trip was renting a car and venturing to Tulum one day followed by swimming in a fresh water cenote, and another day traveling to Playa Del Carmen to hang out at the beach. Overall, it was a great vacation and nice for the four of us to just away. Scott even left his computer at home!!!

Aidan jumping off the high dive

Tulum ruins

A fresh water cenote - basically a cave with cool water. It was amazing!

Birthday surprise...evening out in NYC

2008-08-08T12:02:00.000-04:00

I c0-planned a surprise evening out in NYC for Scott and Simon's birthday. It involved an overnight babysitter and spending the night at our friend Simon's apartment. Scott was very surprised and extremely excited that we were able to get the whole gang together. Here are a couple of candid shots, clearly from the end of the night.

Happy birthday Scott!

2008-08-05T11:56:00.000-04:00

Visit with the Magnano's

2008-08-04T11:53:00.000-04:00

The Magnano's came for a visit on their way to the Cape. It was great to get the kids together.

Chez and Christine's Boston Wedding

2008-06-28T23:48:00.000-04:00

Our good friends, Chez and Christine, finally got married. It was a beautiful ceremony in the Boston Gardens officiated by another friend, Samir.

Jen's Wedding

2008-04-26T22:33:00.001-04:00

My little sister, Jennifer, got married at the Duke Gardens in North Carolina on April 26th, 2008 to Jeff Quinn. The weather was perfect, and Jen looked amazing as usual. Here are a few photos:

Bachelorette Party Weekend in Atlanta

2008-04-06T20:14:00.000-04:00

We went to Atlanta this past weekend for my sister Jen's bachelorette party. There were just 6 of us, which was a very manageable number. It was by far one of the best weekends ever!! Best of all, Jen was an amazing sport and participated in all activities (with no complaints!) Jen and Emily in our room
Amy and Heidi getting ready to go out on night #1
Lemoncello - nothing better for a hangover than just "biting the hair of the dog"
Coke-a-cola museum
Heidi fitting that stereotype
Dinner on Saturday night
Emily, Amy, me, Jen, Barbara, and Heidi

Jen in full garb
Of course we needed a shot with a Brave's hat!!
I think we were very successful!!!

Jennifer's Bridal Shower Weekend

2008-03-08T08:19:00.003-05:00

I flew to NC the weekend of February 28th for my sister's bridal shower. It was SUPPOSED to be a surprise, but inevidably someone from her work let the secret slip....

Here are a few photos from our Friday night dinner:
Emily - Jen's college roommate and one of the bridesmaids
My cousin Amy and her husband, Chris
Amy, Aunt MaryJane and me

Okemo ski trip with the Migoya and Kim families

2008-02-24T18:43:00.004-05:00

We rented a ski on/ski off condo this year with the Migoya and Kim families at Okemo. It snowed the entire first day, which made the conditions much better on day #2. Aidan went into a full day ski school which he LOVED!!! Maddi was in daycare all day, but did go out on the magic carpet for an hour and a half each day. Can't wait to do it again next year!

Madelaine's 3rd Birthday February 9th

2008-02-18T18:25:00.000-05:00

We had Madelaine's 3rd birthday at our house this year. We figured this would be the last year we could get away with that, before she wants to invite her entire class. All of the kids had a great time, and Madelaine loved being the center of attention.

Wedding Dresses

2008-02-17T18:20:00.000-05:00

The kids finally tried on their outfits for Aunt Jen's wedding. They are both really excited to be the flower girl/ring bearer. Now all we need is a black tie for Aidan.

Face Painting

2008-02-16T18:07:00.000-05:00

The kids got a package from Julien and Sara from Belgium. They were very excited with all of the gifts, but mostly with the face paint. Thanks guys!!

A Night Out in NYC

2008-02-14T22:03:00.003-05:00

We got together in New York around the holidays at Rosa Mexicana with some close friends. Niamh was in from Ireland, so it was another reason to make the trek into the city and get a babysitter. Sayed showed up with a girl that he "dates".....apparently only when we are in town. It is great entertainment if nothing else. My girl Niamh.....wish you lived closer!!!!!

Sayed's occasional "date" on the far left....interesting is not the only adjective I can think of.

New Year's Eve 2007-2008

2008-02-14T21:37:00.000-05:00

Scott and I had our 3rd annual New Year's Eve bash. It was relatively small, but an excessive amount of wine and frozen mojitos was generally consumed.

Aidan's Birthday Party

2008-01-06T22:07:00.000-05:00

We had a birthday party for Aidan at our health club. It was fantastic that a huge number of his closest friends came to the party. Thanks to all who came!

Another Chuck E. Cheese Birthday

2007-12-29T21:08:00.000-05:00

Aidan specifically requested that he celebrate his 5th birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese. Jen and Jeff flew in on the 29th, and shortly after we headed to the "child paradise." Maddi preferred the climber more than anything, and Aidan was really into video games this year. He specifically liked the games where he could sit on them, like the snow mobile or race car. Thanks Uncle Jeff for being the best playmate ever!!

Maddi

Aidan

Aidan's 5th birthday at school

2007-12-29T12:00:00.000-05:00

I decided to bring pizza to school today for all of the children to celebrate Aidan's 5th birthday. Since it was couple of days past Christmas, there were only a few children. Scott and I stayed to have pizza, and we picked up Madelaine from her classroom. Happy Birthday, Aidan!!

OT Song

2007-12-19T23:32:00.000-05:00

I love youtube. You can find almost anything on it. Here is a song dedicated to occupational therapy:

LYRICS
I woke up this morning
I couldn't even get out of bed
I stumbled on my feet to brush my teeth
and I didn't have the strength...to find my sink

(chorus)
It sounds like
I need some OT
It sounds like
I need some OT
It sounds like
I need some occupational therapy

So they dragged me out of bed
To do some therapy activity
To bake a cake and fold some clothes
They told me I can't go home
unless I'm safe when I'm alone
It looks to me instead...that someone is just lazy

(chorus)
It sounds like
I need some OT
It sounds like
I need some OTI
t sounds like
I need some occupational therapy

So if you find yourself putting on your t-shirt wrong
or sometimes wondering if you've left your stove on
Lets make it very clear...You don't need physical therapy

(chorus)
It sounds like
you need some OT
It sounds like
you need some OT
It sounds like
you need some occupational therapy
lalalalalalalalala

Now wait a minute, is there a speech therapist in the house?

(chorus)
It sounds like
you need some OT
It sounds like
you need some OT
It sounds like
you need some occupational therapy

Sometimes we forget about that other therapy
we always seem to think physical therapy
but without OT, people aren't going to think...and would be stinky

So thank you, OT
For all you do, thank you
Thank you, thank you occupational therapy

You need some OT? You know you do! Who's the vice president?
You need some OT? Your shoelaces are untied
You need some OT? Your fly is open
You need some OT? You know you want some?
You need some OT? You know you do.

http://www.boazandtheband.com/id1.html

School photos

2007-12-17T21:55:00.000-05:00

We got the kids class photos today:

Thanksgiving in NC

2007-11-25T16:34:00.000-05:00

We went to my cousin Amy's new house in Chapel Hill for Thanksgiving. My sister is living there now, so it was a lot of fun.

Amy and Chris' new home

John, Amy, Carlo and Jen

The kids playing with their Christmas presents from grandma and grandpa

pony rides on Jeff
The engaged couple

Trick-or-treat

2007-10-31T15:50:00.000-04:00

Both kids loved Trick-or-treating this year. Aidan thought he was really cool with the samurai costume that Scott got him in Tokyo, and Maddi needed to be a princess. It was very cute.

Pumpkin picking with the Dhawan family

2007-10-21T15:54:00.000-04:00

We joined the Dhawan family to do our annual pumpkin picking trip. This year we went to a real working farm not far from our house. The kids loved seeing the baby cows, petting the farm cats, and going on the pony rides. Aidan, Alex, Maddi, Leila, and Kiran in the pumpkin patch
petting the cat

Januvia/Janumet party May 12, 2007

2007-10-14T15:48:00.000-04:00

I don't express nearly enough how incredibly proud I am of my husband, Scott. He worked with a group of very talented scientists to discover the drug Januvia, Merck's Type-2 diabetes medication. Janumet is the combination of Januvia and Metformin, another diabetes medication on the market.

On May 12, 2007, Merck threw a hugh party in New York City for all people involved in developing this drug. It was a black-tie event and held at the old Wall Street building. Here are a few photos of the evening. This posting is so late since I forgot to take pictures and our friend, Ranibir, gave these to me.
People in Big Pharma are not in it to make loads of money...they do it because they want to make a difference in the world. They want to cure disease. And, no, there is no magic pill sitting on a shelf that cures all cancers kept away from the general public because the pharmaceutical industry wants to continue to make money. That is completely ridiculous. Scott's involvement with Januvia was particularly important to him because his father has Type-2 diabetes, as well as many of his paternal family members. And, genetically he has a higher risk factor for also developing the disease.

Ranibir and Mary

Ann Weber (Scott's boss) and Kevin Chapman (her husband, and another talented chemist)

Nancy Thornbury (biologist), Peter Kim (the head of MRL), and Ann Weber
Pablo (Liz's husband), me, Scott, Liz Magoya (clincial pharmacologist), Mary Struthers (biologist and Ranibir's wife)

me, Scott, Liz

Aidan't Alphabet Adventure

2007-10-14T15:23:00.000-04:00

I saw this on one of my friend's blogs and I couldn't resist doing one for Aidan. Enjoy.

The US Open 2007

2007-09-03T14:58:00.000-04:00

Scott and I have made it an annual event that we get tickets to the US Open tennis tournament on Labor Day. This year, we invited Scott's mother and grandmother to go with us. It was grandma's first visit to our house in New Jersey. The weather was beautiful (for once) and we really had a great day. I especially loved seeing my favorite guy, Andy Roddick, practice in the small courts.

Corinne and Grandma Miller

Roddick before the game was forfeited by the opponent.

Roddick and Jimmy Connors

James Blake

Aidan's class fieldtrip to Merrill Park

2007-08-30T14:49:00.000-04:00

I chaperoned Aidan's final fieldtrip to Merrill Park. Since it was a little more low-key, his teacher gave me permission to take photos. Here are some with Aidan...

Grandma's cottage 2007

2007-08-27T14:26:00.000-04:00

I made the annual trip to my Grandma Doyle's cottage this August with the 2 kids. Since we had taken so many family vacations, Scott couldn't miss work again. We rented the cottage next door, which was previously owned by the Catholic Church and was for a group of nuns. Therefore, it is filled with about 20 bedrooms, each with 1 or 2 twin beds. Aidan really loved fishing with my Aunt Maureen, and Maddi loved playing with her cousins, especially Landon.

Skylar and Landon washing the cars
Aidan figuring out how to work the hose and Maddi busy washing Mommy's car
Landon was dangerous with the hose!
Madelaine and Uncle Billy
Maddi driving the boat
Aidan was very serious about his driving skills
me and the two kids

After spending a few days at the cottage, we went to The Enchanted Forest. It was a miserable day to go, very cold, but it didn't seem to bother the kids. Everyone had a good time, especially on the amusement park rides.

Grandma Doyle and Aidan

The four cousins

Cabo San Lucas 2007

2007-08-13T13:47:00.000-04:00

We took our annual trip to Cabo San Lucas the first week in August. It was a lot of traveling this year, but we had promised Scott's dad a trip to Mexico when he retired so it couldn't be helped. The kids had a blast swimming every day and playing in the sand. The greatest thing was that we made the upgrade from a 1-bedroom unit to a 2-bedroom. That way we can always bring relatives and friends and no one has to sleep on the couch!
Of course, it was necessary that Scott be buried at the beach again!

Climbing the rocks near our hotel

The Buckaneer pirate sunset cruise. The kids loved the pirate show!

Scott was called up to plays some silly game. He really hammed it up and Aidan thought it was hysterical.

We rented a car for the first time in Cabo on one of the last days of the trip. Some other people at our complex recommended that we go to this unmarked, unknown beach about an hour north of Cabo on the Pacific Ocean. I complained the whole way there, but once we arrived, I admitted that it was well worth the drive. No crowds, shallow beach, surf shop, boogy boards....running water and plumbing....can't wait to go back next year.

More France

2007-07-12T23:30:00.000-04:00

I am slowly getting the remainder of the France photos loaded onto the blog. These were taken on an excursion to a local village near Aups. There was a very old and very beautiful church there, but the kids really just loved to run and climb over every surface.
Aidan standing next to the local water fountain

Lac de Sainte Croix

2007-07-12T11:41:00.000-04:00

We spent the day at a fresh water lake called Lac de Sainte Croix. It is a pretty short drive from Aups and Lorgues where we stayed...Sara visited this lake as a child so she was very familiar with the area. The history is quite interesting since it is the product of a dam that was built to reserve fresh water for the area. There was a town that was going to be destroyed by this dam, so an exact replica of the town was built on higher ground. The original town is now at the bottom of the lake.

Since the ground is comprised of white stones and not dirt, the water is almost turquoise in color. The kids had a blast swimming, and we rented a canoe and explored the opposite shores. We had a near casualty since Scott almost drowned with his broken foot. Many thanks to Julien for pulling him to shore. Yes, I do need to bubble wrap my husband the next time we go on vacation!!

A Day in Grasse, France

2007-07-11T11:13:00.000-04:00

We spent the day in Grasse which is the birthplace of the perfume industry. There were quite a few perfume museums, and we toured one. It was fascinating how they made perfume, and it was also interesting that you could design your own fragrance. Grasse was a beautiful town set into the side of a mountain, and therefore very hilly.

This was a really quaint store on a side street in Grasse. We ended up buying a beautiful wall hanging as a souvenir of our trip.

We at dinner in Antibe along the coast, and this was the view from our restaurant.

The coast at night time.

Aups, France July 8, 2007

2007-07-08T19:52:00.000-04:00

We went into a little village called Aups in the Var region of France. It was very medieval with narrow streets and beautiful buildings. Here are a few photos:

The town's central fountain

The boys: Scott, Aidan, Julien and Felix

Babette

Kristin and Madelaine

Sara and Baby Mathilde

A pretty side street

Felix and Mathilde

Lourges, France with the Doyon Family

2007-07-07T12:26:00.000-04:00

The Gite, or house, that we rented in Lourges was beautiful. The kids really loved the swimming pool, and it was perfect for both of our families.

The view from our bedroom window

Cannes, France

2007-07-06T11:12:00.000-04:00

We just got back from a fabulous trip to the south of France where we rented a house for a week with our good friends, Julien and Sara Doyon, and their 3 children. Scott had never been to the Cote de Azur before, so we decided to spend 2 days in Cannes at the beach. The kids had a blast making sand castles, burying everyone in the sand, and swimming in the ocean. Scott unfortunately got stung by a jelly fish, but overall it was very relaxing and enjoyable.

The view from the top of our hotel

Maddi trying to bury Scott's face...oops

Madelaine and Aidan wanted a turn

The view of our drive north along the coast

More photos of Cape Cod with the Magnano Family

2007-06-24T21:57:00.000-04:00

Here are some more photos from the weekend at Orleans, Cape Cod with the Magnanos.

Cape Cod photos

Enjoy....and sorry if it makes you sign in.

Cape Cod with Tony and Betsy - June 22-24, 2007

2007-06-24T20:12:00.000-04:00

We went to Cape Cod the weekend of June 22-24 to visit our friends Tony, Elizabeth, Chase, Lexi and Carter Magnano. Scott had a conference beginning on Sunday in Newport, RI, so we all went up the weekend before to spend some time with their family. It was the first time we were able to get together since the Magnano's moved from NYC to Jacksonville, FL last year. Aidan was especially excited to see his old friend, Chase. The nicest surprise of the weekend was that Tony asked Scott to be the Godfather of their newest family member, Carter Thomas Magnano. The baptism took place at a very special place, the home next door to their family's cottage. This was where many of the Nichols' family members worshipped and where many were also baptised.

Click on the blog entry above to see more photos. Unfortunately, I can't quite figure out how to post the link on this page without requiring you to sign onto Kodak Gallery.

My crazy kids - June 17th, 2007

2007-06-17T20:01:00.000-04:00

Random photos of the kids being silly....just before bed time, of course!

Ellie's 4th birthday party - June 10th, 2007

2007-06-10T19:40:00.000-04:00

I took the kids to a birthday party a few weeks ago while Scott was out of town. It was a classmate of Aidan's, Ellie, whose parents are good friends of ours. Here are a few photos.

Ellie, the birthday girl

"Singing Happy Birthday"

Aidan and Ellie, good friends

Madelaine and Maya

Madeleine McCann...she needs your help!!

2007-06-02T22:59:00.000-04:00

Please check out the website I have posted on the right side of my blog. There is a little girl from England named Madeleine McCann who was abducted from her bed while on vacation with her family in Portugal. She is only 4 years old. I can't tell you how upset and deeply distrubed I am by this news story. I think what can really save her is getting her story out to the public....please check it out and post the link on your blog, too.

My sister's getting married!!!!

2007-06-02T22:35:00.001-04:00

I went to North Carolina over Memorial Day weekend with my daughter Madelaine to go dress shopping with my little sister, Jennifer. She got engaged the end of April and is planning on getting married April 26, 2008. Her fiance, Jeff, is an amazing guy who currently teaches at Duke University. The wedding is going to be at the Duke Gardens, which is really beautiful. My mom also flew up from Florida for the festivities, and my cousin, Amy helped with the decision making process. Congrats to Jeff and Jen.

The following photos are of the Duke Gardens and of Jen trying on dresses. Don't worry, Jen, I didn't post the final dress selection!

McCarton Benefit

2007-06-02T22:27:00.000-04:00

Scott and I went to the McCarton School Benefit on May 21st. As usual, it was an amazing event, this year hosted by Conan O'Brien and honoring Suzanne and Bob Wright.

Happy Mother's Day

2007-06-02T22:23:00.000-04:00

The family took me out to dinner to a very nice Asian restaurant. It was very relaxing and low key. The best part of the day was that Scott let me sleep in for a few extra hours (9 am instead of 6:30 am). Yeah, Scott!!!

Natasha Kim's 4th Birthday Party

2007-06-02T22:15:00.000-04:00

We went to a birthday party a couple of weeks ago, and the kids had a blast riding the pony. Maddi was the first in line, and Aidan realized that if his little sister could do it, so could he.

Swim lessons May 6, 2007

2007-05-07T22:57:00.000-04:00

Aidan loves his swim lessons, and can't wait to go every week. He is now an independent swimmer with no floaties, but is working on his strokes.

Spring skiing in Deer Valley, Utah March 23 thru April 1st

2007-04-12T23:05:00.000-04:00

I was fortunate enough to be invited to Deer Valley, Utah, skiing with a wonderful family, and a great kid, Francisco. We were there for 10 days, and despite unusual warm weather we did receive 11 inches of new snow. Here are a few pictures of the trip.

pre-snow

post-snow

Part of the Lopez Family: Frank, Milena and my favorite guy Francisco

Diana Lopez...the birthday girl

Milena and Kristin

Francisco

Milena and Chris

Kylie

The boys....Andy, Francisco and Chris

Snow in March...Ugh!!!

2007-03-20T22:49:00.000-04:00

We got one of the biggest snow falls of the season last Friday. Saturday ended up being a beautiful day, which allowed the kids to play in the snow. They enjoyed building a snowman, especially putting the eyes, nose and mouth on the face. The birds and squirrels also enjoyed this....the raisins and carrot were gone by the end of the day.

Maddi doesn't like to be told not to eat the dirty snow on the swing set.

Madelaine's mishap with the stairs

2007-03-12T09:28:00.000-04:00

Madelaine fell down the stairs last night. She was having a bit of a temper tantrum since I wouldn't let her have a lollipop at 8:30 at night, stomped her foot, and slipped off the top stair. As a result, she fell down 7 steps on her face. She lost her bottom left incisor down to the root, bruised her face and got 2 fat lips. We went to the ER, and the doctor gave her a clean bill of health, but told us to keep her under observation today. You can still see the blood on her pajamas.

The one interesting thing I learned in the emergency room is that if you ever lose a tooth, put it in a plastic container of cold milk and bring it with you to the emergency room. They may be able to put it back in.

Saturday in Central Park Zoo

2007-03-12T09:15:00.000-04:00

We took the kids to the Central Park Zoo today (3/10/07). The weather was great and we all had a lot of fun.

We then took a walk in Central Park....

Spring Fever

2007-03-05T21:35:00.000-05:00

The weather finally broke in NJ this past weekend. It was 62 degrees outside and the kids couldn't wait to get out and play on the swing set. Unfortunately it was short lived...42 degrees today and 23 degrees tomorrow.

Getting ready to go outside:

Playing outdoors:

Maddi and her babies

2007-02-11T21:01:00.000-05:00

Madelaine has taken a huge interest in her babies. Perhaps this is a product of daycare...she has learned to bathe and feed the baby, change the baby's diaper and clothes, and generally just "mother" her dolls. It is generally very cute.

However, this evening bedtime turned into a huge ordeal. Madelaine needed all of her babies and would not go to sleep until I had located all of them. In the end, she was surrounded by 8 dolls. I found this very humorous and needed to document it with a photo.

Of course, Aidan refused to be left out of the photo session and insisted that I snap one of him in the bath tub.

Madelaine's 2nd Birthday Party

2007-02-11T17:40:00.000-05:00

We had a few friends and children over last night (Saturday, February 10th) to help celebrate Maddi's birthday. Two of the children from her daycare came over, so Madelaine was extremely excited.

At the end of the evening: Madelaine surveying her gifts in the living room.

Madelaine's 2nd Birthday

2007-02-09T20:12:00.000-05:00

Today was Madelaine's 2nd birthday and we took her to the Rainforest Cafe for dinner. She really enjoys walking around and looking at the fish and various stuffed animals. Here are a few photos from the evening.

New Autism Data

2007-02-08T23:17:00.000-05:00

A new study was released stating that the data for children diagnosed with Autism has climbed from 1/166 children to 1/150 children. This is alarming! The CBS Evening News did a segment on this and featured The McCarton School, upstairs from where I work at The McCarton Center. Check it out.

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=2452057n

A Visit to the Aquarium

2007-01-14T19:27:00.000-05:00

Scott's dad came for a visit to attend Aidan's birthday party. We decided to head to the aquarium in Camden, NJ, just over the bridge from Philadelphia on Sunday, January 7th. Aidan asked us for days when he could go back to visit the sharks. It is well worth the trip for anyone living within driving distance.

Birthday party at My Gym January 5th

2007-01-14T19:21:00.000-05:00

I only took a few photos at the beginning of Aidan's birthday party at My Gym. The kids had a great time, and Maddi had no trouble keeping up with all of the 4-year-old boys!

A Trip to Chuck E Cheese

2007-01-12T23:19:00.000-05:00

Aidan's 4th birthday was December 29th, and we took the kids to Chuck E Cheese. Aunt Jen was in town from North Carolina, and Aidan was thrilled to have her along. Maddi especially enjoyed the icing...she ate 3 pieces of cake!!

Christmas decorating

2006-12-27T22:04:00.000-05:00

Our tree and feeble attempt at decorating the front of the house. The kids had a good time, though!

We also went to the mall and took a ride on the train. This was much less traumatic for Maddi than the Santa visit!

School photos

2006-12-27T21:53:00.000-05:00

Maddi and Aidan had their annual school photos in November, but we just got them back. Aidan is always so jovial. Madelaine, on the other hand, is the skeptic of the family. Her teacher tried to get her to smile to no avail.

A Visit with Santa

2006-12-21T15:45:00.000-05:00

We went to the mall last Sunday evening to finish up some last minute shopping and to visit Santa. Aidan was in awe...he couldn't wait to climb on Santa's lap to tell him all that he wanted. Madelaine, on the other hand, screamed at a decibel I had never heard from her before.

Julia Mae Cook's baptism November 5, 2006

2006-11-27T22:21:00.000-05:00

My friend Michelle's baby Julia was baptised on November 5, 2006. Due to Maddi's nap schedule, we missed the actual baptism, but we were able to make it to the after-party. Here are some photos:

Madelaine enjoying the festivities

Mark, baby Anna, baby Julia, Brian

Mark and Laura Heil with baby Anna

Brian and Michelle Cook with baby Julia

Thanksgiving in Chapel Hill, NC

2006-11-27T20:52:00.000-05:00

We travelled to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, this year in order to spend Thanksgiving with my cousin Amy and her husband, Chris. In addition, my sister Jennifer, her boyfriend Jeff, my parents, and my aunt and uncle came for dinner. We all had a great time, and I can't wait to visit again.

Here are a few photos of the weekend.

Aidan and Maddi relaxing in front of the fire place

Hanging out at the playground

Jen, Jeff, Scott, Chris and Amy at the wine bar

Ahhh.....

Scott and Amy playing pool

Happy thoughts

2006-11-14T23:11:00.000-05:00

My sister, Jennifer, told me today that she and her boyfriend have booked tickets to come visit me and my family for New Years. I am beyond excited that she would spend her holiday with me, and can't wait to ring in the New Year with my baby sister. I love you, Foof.

Too much idle time on my hands

2006-11-14T23:07:00.000-05:00

During my mindless avoidance of work-related activities, I came across this video on You Tube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lAzjWE5BIg

The ability of some people to contort their bodies is amazing.

Food for thought...

2006-11-11T14:48:00.000-05:00

The US recently had mid-term elections and the Senate and Congress have changed to Democratic control. The following day, our friend forwarded us this video clip on You Tube. It is a pretty powerful message, and it was particularly astounding to me to see all that has happened in this country over the past 6 years.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wm2OXQh3duI

Alex Kim's birthday party

2006-11-05T21:35:00.000-05:00

We went to a birthday party yesterday, November 5, at a gym class for one of Aidan's friends, Alex. The kids had a blast, particularly Maddi. She kept up with the larger children with no problem.

Alex blowing out his candles.

Aidan enjoying his pizza.

Madelaine attempting to eat a piece of cake in one large bite.

Trick or treating with the Migoya family

2006-11-05T21:12:00.000-05:00

This Halloween we accompanied the Magoya family trick or treating in their neighborhood. Aidan had a blast with his friends, Malcolm and Alex. He completely got the hang of trick or treating, literally running door to door. Maddi, on the other hand, was quite content hanging out in her stroller until whatever piece of candy she was eating was finished. She then decided it was time to get another piece. Both kids loved their costumes, and they looked adorable.

Aidan as "Spiderman". He ditched the mask after about 2 minutes.

Madelaine as a duck. She mastered her "quacks."

Alex Migoya as a very scary knight.

Malcolm Migoya as a pirate.

Maddi in action

Cheese!!

A visit with Scott's mother

2006-11-05T16:40:00.000-05:00

Corinne flew to New Jersey from Dayton, OH, last weekend. The children were very excited to have their grandmother here and it was a very nice visit. We tried to make it extremely memorable, but unfortunately the weather was not completely cooperative. The Bronx Zoo had a Halloween exhibit with free face painting and arts and crafts. Aidan was a little scared to have his face painted, but encouraged his parents to partake in the festivities. Madelaine would have loved to have had her face done too, but there was a 3-year age minimum. Too bad!

After a great day at the zoo, we went back to our house to enjoy the performance by the kids. Madelaine becomes enchanted when music is played. Aidan just wanted to follow his sister's lead.

My Husband the Crazy Chemist

2006-10-25T20:14:00.000-04:00

The FDA recently approved the new Merck drug called Januvia to combat type 2 diabetes. I am proud to say that my husband was part of the team that helped discover this new drug. Good job Merck and all of the talented scientists who dedicate their lives to improve human health. You should all feel very proud of yourselves!!

A few more thoughts...

2006-10-25T14:59:00.000-04:00

So, since I have been home with Aidan today, I have had a few moments of clear thought to tackle this blog thing. Usually I am too tired at the end of the day to do anything more than feed children, bathe children, put children to bed, and then possibly check work email or edit work reports. What I am most excited about is that I have figured out how to post links to various websites on the side of my blog.

I mention this for a few reasons. First, I want you all to check out the link for The McCarton School. As most of you know, I work at The McCarton Center which is an outpatient pediatric facility. There is also a school on the 2nd floor of our facility called The McCarton School. It is a school dedicated to the treatment of children on the Autism Spectrum. Autism is an epidemic in not only our country, but it also effects children of every race, religion and socioeconomic background. The McCarton School is unique in that it utilizes a multi-disciplinary approach to the treatment of this disorder. I also attached a few links to other Autism resources.

Second, I attached links to some of my friends' blogs. You can check out some photos of their beautiful families, and perhaps you know some of them. I also attached a link to Paul Amenta who is a very dear friend of ours. He is an amazing artist who recently accepted a professorship in Grand Rapids, Michigan, melding the minds of future artists.

Third, I attached a link to Chuck Tronolone's bike journal across country. He is the brother of my friend, Stacey Nolan (formerly Tronolone). Chuck started in Allentown, PA, and so far has biked along the east coast down to FL. Next, he will bike west and then north, eventually making it to Portland, OR, at the home of Stacey and Brian Nolan. His poinant account of his journey thus far is definately read worthy and I highly advise you all to check out this site.

enjoy....

Home with Aidan

2006-10-25T11:51:00.000-04:00

Well, I am home from work today with a sick child. Aidan was sent home early yesterday from daycare with a fever, and it lasted through last night and into today. We made a trip to the pediatrician this morning with a 103 fever, but unfortunately the strep test was negative. I say unfortunately because that means it is a virus and therefore no antibiotics. If he is sick tomorrow, it is Scott's turn!

http://www.westfieldpediatrics.com

Our pediatrician just started a new website. We are thrilled with her, so if anyone is looking for a good doctor in the Westfield area, I would highly recommend Dr. Flanzman.

The little angels

A visit to the pumpkin patch with the Dhawan family

2006-10-24T22:42:00.000-04:00

We recently visited our friends Sanjeev and Britt Dhawan and their 2 beautiful children, Alex and Leila, in Woodcliff Lake, NJ. They finished an enormous addition to their house and it was our first trip to see the finished product. Of course, I was having complete house envy...it is this enourmous 4 bedroom home. Sanj put in these amazing techno accessories that I loved, like the built-in individual coffee maker and the IPod music speakered throughout the house, and Britt chose beautiful details like central vac and beautiful baseboard molding. Absolutely my dream home. Scott keeps telling me "someday...", and we keep discussing that if we sold the apartment in the city, we would be able to afford a house like that. But, alas, I remind myself that the apartment is my retirement fund and as long as we keep prodding along (and as long as Merck keeps doing better), we will be able to have a bigger house someday.

Besides visiting their new home, we took the 4 kids to a local pumpkin farm. Aidan and Alex played together really nicely. They are only about 4 months apart in age, and they now share similar interests and skill level. Madelaine and Leila also did well playing with one another. They are only a few weeks apart in age, and are now almost intrigued with one other. It was really great to get the kids together....it had been way too long since we had done it.

Here are a few photos from the day's events. Thanks to Britt, I am able to post these since I didn't remember my camera until I was pulling into their driveway. She is the one pregnant with #3, and I am the one suffering from acute memory loss.

Madelaine and Leila

Say "cheese"

Silly faces

Just one of the kids

I'm the King of the Mountain (or hay bale, in this case)

Weekend home in Waverly

2006-09-18T21:05:00.000-04:00

I recently took the kids home to Waverly to help my parents with a garage sale. They occupied themselves by playing hide and seek in the empty China cabinet, especially Madelaine.

More Cabo 2006

2006-08-15T22:10:00.000-04:00

We went on a sunset cruise one evening on a sailboat along lands end and the Sea of Cortez. Scott stayed back with the kids while my mother enjoyed the trip. On the boat, we met another couple from Atlanta, Brian and Karen. Brian is a photographer and took some amazing photos of the arch....although some of mine didn't turn out too bad. We all had a great time.

Cabo San Lucas August, 2006

2006-08-14T22:30:00.000-04:00

Well, we finally took a much needed vacation to our time share in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Last year we didn't go because Maddi was born and we banked the week, so this year we got 2 units the same week. The plan was to bring our very good friends, Julien and Sara Doyon from Belgium. Julien is Aidan's Godfather and we try to get together every few years. Unfortunately, the cost was prohibitive, but it did work out okay. Our other very good friends, Laura and Paul, and Simon gratiously "volunteered". (Tough for them, I'm sure, to endure margaritas galore!)

Simon brought his girlfriend, Ghita, along for the trip. It was amazing to spend the week getting to know her. In addition, my mother volunteered to come along on the trip at the last minute and act as our babysitter. Purely selfish motives, actually. She just wanted to spend lots of time with her grandchildren.

Wedding photo

2006-07-28T22:20:00.000-04:00

Children's Day at South Street Seaport

2006-07-26T23:27:00.000-04:00

This is my first attempt at managing a blog, so I will try to be diligent about keeping up with the kids photos. Here are a few pictures from a day out in New York City.