The Noonans

Hockey at Aidan's House

2011-02-02T10:37:00.002-05:00

Liam's friend, and teammate, Aidan (No 21), invited the team over for a hockey game in his backyard. They have an amazing rink, as you will see from the photos.

Needless to say, the boys had a blast! Aidan's dad picked names out of a hat -- first six boys wore white, second six wore blue. The parents had no clue who won the scrimmage, but if you ask any of the boys, they knew. White team won 18 - 16. By the score, can you tell it was a long game?

The above photo is the boys at the end of the game. (Don't know what happened, meant for this to be toward the end. Oh well.)

Getting instructions from Aidan's dad, Coach Stu. The boys played two minute shifts in a three on three game. An older brother of one of the boys acted as the ref (and ice cleaner.)

Boys waiting for their shift.

Doesn't get any better, pizza and video games to complete the perfect afternoon.

Dinner Inspired by a Giant Squash

2010-11-17T19:53:00.003-05:00

This squash is from our garden. It was our inspiration for dinner this evening.

We had so much fun making dinner. Liam's skills in the kitchen have come a long way. He prepped, and cleaned the squash. He then helped to prepare the filling -- which was a totally creative, fake-it-till-you-make-it concoction. Liam actually did almost everything for dinner, except brown the meat (he was cleaning the squash), and pour the wine in the sauce.

Time on the Hudson

2010-09-02T10:05:00.005-04:00

Last weekend we went out for a couple nights on our new boat. We enjoyed fishing, taking in the sights, watching sunsets and moonrise, catching a fireworks show, reading, relaxing, and chatting...and loved every minute of it.

It was so nice to spend some serious chill-time with the family. We are looking forward to getting back on the water this coming weekend. This time we plan to swim as well!

View of West Point from the Hudson.

We had to pull the boat for a repair.

Liam washing the boat.

West Point Triathlon for Kids

2010-08-16T16:58:00.003-04:00

Liam completed his second triathlon this weekend. He was so excited to race at West Point's Camp Buckner. When they asked the kids who wanted to go to West Point one day, Liam shot his hand up and held it high.

Didn't get many good photos, because my camera is not great at catching action shots. Below are a few of the less blurry.

Not surprised to see him standing between two nine-year-old girls chatting before the race.

Family & Fun in Colorado

2010-08-16T15:10:00.012-04:00

Lots of pictures from Colorado, in no special order.

Estes Park:

Breckenridge:

Art and Gardening

2010-04-17T11:21:00.005-04:00

Liam started an art class this week. They experimented with water colors. Above is one of his pieces.

The boys also started on the garden after school/work. I couldn't believe how many rocks they dug up this year.

Liam created a rock garden with what he dug out of the veggie garden.

Roedown Weekend

2010-04-13T09:14:00.005-04:00

We went to Maryland this past weekend and had a blast! It's amazing how many activities five people could squeeze into a two day period -- biking, gardening, horse races, painting, bubble blowing, hanging out in hammocks, watching hockey, reading, knitting, eating, doing puzzles, helping Grandma with the horses, roasting marshmallows over the fire, and just plain chillin' out. At Roedown.

Happenings in Orangeburg

2010-03-19T17:06:00.002-04:00

Grandma came for a visit last weekend to see Liam's final hockey game of the season. On Saturday night we decided to watch "Pirates of the Caribbean," so Liam dressed for the occasion.

After Liam's game and lunch, Grandma and Liam had a battle.

Slide Sledding

2010-02-27T17:09:00.003-05:00

Bobby prepping the run of the latest activity at the Noonan's - Slide Sledding.

Snow Day

2010-02-27T11:01:00.005-05:00

The boys building a giant snowman.

After the boys built the snowman, they moved on and attempted to create a Luge Track. The snow was very heavy, so it took more work than usual. Below, Liam and Nicky are trying to pull Bobby to deepen the track.

They gave Bobby a push, but he didn't make it far. Tonia had to get in on the action and pull him down. After a little while, the boys gave up and decided to take the sleds and ride down the slide. They had a blast, but this is not what a mother wants to see.

Note the branches behind us, that is one of our Apple Trees that was a casualty of the heavy snow -- it snapped in half.

Rural, Urban, Suburban

2010-02-23T10:44:00.005-05:00

Liam's class has been studying rural, urban and suburban settings. As a culmination of this chapter, they are turning their classroom into "Neugebauer County." Each child had to bring in buildings (preferably built out of materials they could find in their recycling,) and/or vehicles, to represent each area.

Liam and Bobby decided they would build a farm shed and a fire station, and that Liam would take in a vehicle to represent each area. I thought they were very clever. They used a clementine container and box to make the shed. The firehouse was made from an inside out cardboard wine box, a toilet paper roll and an American Flag.

In the barn you will find pigs, sheep, and cows.

A Great Weekend in Lake Placid

2010-02-22T09:34:00.003-05:00

We had such an amazing time in Lake Placid this weekend. Liam's skiing has really come along, he is super fun to ski with. It's fun to just take a chair lift and ski whatever looks good. Have to be careful when Liam gets to call the run, however, because you might end up racing ski cross, or taking jumps in the Terrain Park. Tonia tends to pick the steep, fast, groomers, and Bobby likes it all.

We skied, skated, took a bobsled ride, toured the town and sights, and went to a cool little festival that had hockey shoot-outs, luge, and curling. We also ate well, and enjoyed some yummy local beer and root beer.

We were having so much fun that we didn't take a lot of photos. Here are a few that we did take... Playing around on the 1932 Bobsled that was in the lobby of our hotel.

Watching some freestyle skiers practice.

The view from the top of the 120 m ski jump.

Waiting to take our bobsled run.

Ready for our bobsled run. Liam has been asking to take a bobsled ride for the past three years. This year he was just about tall enough, so they let him ride. When we were finished with the run, Liam said, "This was the best day of my life!!!!!!!!!! I want to go to the Olympics for bobsled!!!"

Just off the gondola, and getting ready to ski.

Tonia standing in front of the trail map. Can you tell why Whiteface's nickname is Iceface? We were lucky to have had fresh snow, and not so much wind. Usually the summit tends to get blown-off by midday. We got really lucky this visit.

The "Noonan Cup" standings. We had a race for the "Noonan Cup," which included skiing (both downhill and ski cross), speed skating, and swimming. The results were all very close, with Liam taking the Gold, Bobby the Silver, and Tonia the Bronze. Liam was the fastest skater by far, and he won two of the three ski cross races. Tonia lost all chance of a Gold or Silver as soon as ski cross was introduced into the mix. She is not a big fan of big air off jumps. Have to say, however, that ski cross is a blast. Glad Whiteface has a training area dedicated to ski cross so that we could let it rip.

NY Rangers and NJ Devils in the backyard

2010-02-01T09:16:00.004-05:00

After Liam's game yesterday, several of the boys, and some parents, came over to skate. Liam with some of his buddies from his team, Kyle, Kevin, and Brendan. It was fun to listen to them as they pretended to be their favorite players from the Rangers and the Devils.

A couple dads got involved in the action.

After skating for a couple hours, everyone packed up their gear and headed back to the rink for stick-time. Stick-time is fun because they can practice some of the fancy shots -- like lifting the puck, and slapshots -- that Mrs. Noonan wasn't allowing in the backyard.

You Won't Believe What We Did All Day Saturday

2010-01-31T09:01:00.004-05:00

The day, of course, was all about hockey. Liam had a game in the early A.M., then he and his friend, Kyle, wanted to stay and watch the 14-year-old boys play (they were amazing, FYI), then off to see a movie about, what else...a hockey player, then home to skate and shoot pucks for another hour and a half. Then...the Ranger game. As I type this, Bob and Liam are out back on the ice passing the puck. Liam wanted to warm up before his game this morning.

Psst: I also think that Bobby wants any excuse to get on the ice now-a-days. He is loving the new hockey skills he is acquiring.
Liam picking up a few pucks as he clears the ice of "snow."

Daddy and Mommy facing off.

After a fun afternoon, Bobby and Liam clear and resurface the ice.

The scene at our back door.

Christmas in January

2010-01-11T16:16:00.002-05:00

Since Dad was in the hospital until Christmas Eve, we decided to celebrate Christmas on January 9. Much fun was had by all. Here are a few pictures...

Building an Ice Rink

2010-01-11T09:01:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we built a 20' x 44' ice rink in the back yard. Now we just wait for it to freeze completely.

Clearing the snow.

Brushing the patio smooth.

Putting up the boards.

The plastic.

Nailing the plastic to the boards.

Water.

Bob and Liam checking on everything as the water began to fill.

Our Rink Master.

The rink as it looked at 7:30 a.m. this morning. It is only frozen about a 1/2" deep, so there will be no skating today.

We love Colorado!!

2010-01-06T16:36:00.005-05:00

The view from our room.

Bob and Liam at Keystone.

A happy Bobby, after a most awesome powder day in Imperial Bowl at Breckenridge.

Yeah!!! Having so much fun!!!

Liam, sporting the sweater that Grandma Irene made him. He wore it every day.

The view from our condo of Horseshoe Bowl and Contest Bowl.

Mommy and Liam at Beaver Creek.

Liam and Bob at dinner.

View of our new home away from home, The Grand Lodge on Peak 7.

A moose who was hangin' out near the base of Peak 8.

Another view from our room.

Liam and Mommy waiting for Daddy to finish taking photos. Liam was anxious to get skiing. Bobby thought it was cool that we could see Breckenridge while skiing the back side of Keystone.

Liam and Mommy at Keystone.

Mommy and Liam at Bubba Gumps our last night.

Scored his first Hat Trick today!!

2009-11-29T22:10:00.003-05:00

Liam holding his trophy from the Thanksgiving Hockey Tournament. Liam's team did extremely well today. They won all four of their games.

He scored his first Hat Trick, and then went on to score one more goal in that game. Liam was one of the top goal scorers today with 10 goals. His friend Kyle, who often plays on the same line, had 12 goals. And his friend Tyler, who also often plays on the same line, had at least 6. Their buddy, Kevin, who normally plays for a different team, took charge in goal and didn't let many shots past. Those Pirates were on FIRE today!!

Liam's Room

2009-11-02T16:16:00.001-05:00

Thought I'd post some photos to show Liam's new bunk bed. Also wanted to document the one day that his room is actually clean!

This is his shrine to hockey.

Now "The Kid" wants to score a Hat Trick

2009-10-25T17:16:00.004-04:00

Liam had a good game today. It was his first game where he scored two goals. Bobby took video of all eight shifts that Liam skated this morning. We'll spare you seven of them. Liam is No. 5 on the Blue Team. Here is his first shift...

Now that he has had a two goal game, he has his sights set on scoring a Hat Trick.

A Ranger Surprise!

2009-09-22T10:18:00.002-04:00

We surprised Liam with tickets to the NY Rangers vs. Detroit Redwings game. He was so excited. He ate a snack, and did his homework so fast to make sure that he was able to go to the game.

It was a fun game. As Liam's understanding of the game grows, his commentary gets more elaborate and interesting. It's been really cool to watch the games with him so far this year.

A Ranger Salute. The team salutes with their sticks when they win. Final score was 4 - 2.

Some highlights from the weekend

2009-09-15T08:07:00.003-04:00

Liam has discovered that skateboarding at the high school on a Sunday is really fun. Not many cars, and fresh blacktop!

After linner (late lunch/early dinner) we got comfy, and settled in for a game of Monopoly that continued for several nights after dinner. By the time the game finished, Bobby owned half the property, and Liam had half the money. Mommy ended up with some property and about $300. We are planning a rematch next weekend.

Not really sure what trick he was going for, but here is the practice...

First Day of 2nd Grade

2009-09-08T09:15:00.003-04:00

Liam was so excited for the first day of Second Grade.

Freshly cut grass, and a fresh start for the school year.

Liam and Bobby have snacks and lunch, and are ready to hit the road.

Liam and Nicky walking to the bus stop.

Nicky, Liam, and Angelina waiting for the bus.

He got on the bus so fast that this was the best picture I could get.

Chillin' by the pool

2009-09-07T18:29:00.000-04:00

Fresh Veggies, Camp Family Fun Day & NYC Triathlon

2009-07-28T13:05:00.005-04:00

On Saturday morning, Liam went out to his garden and picked some veggies for the stew that he would make with Daddy. After that, we went to Family Fun Day at Day Camp in the Park. We had a great time swimming and boating. We could only stay for a few hours, however, because Liam and Mommy had to get Mommy's bike checked in for the NYC Triathlon, and Daddy had a two hour ride to do.

Sunday we were all up early for the NYC Triathlon, which is an Olympic Distance. Tonia got to swim 1.5k in the Hudson River, bike 40k on the West Side Highway, and run 10k in Central Park. Liam and Bobby did a little sight-seeing before and after the race, and some cowbell ringing during the race.

The Castle in Central Park.

The city closed the West Side Highway to traffic for the race. It was absolutely amazing to be able to ride on this road.

About a quarter mile from the finish. Tonia wasn't feeling so hot at this point. All she could think about was having an orange, and getting a shower. She kept repeating Resa's mantra, "pain is temporary, quiting is forever."

Bobby and Liam were trying to find Tonia. There were 3,400 triathletes, and their people, in a small area of Central Park. Thank goodness there were courtesy phones for the athletes to use.

Liam was thirsty, and wasn't digging the huge crowds at this point.

Much happier -- ahh, a drink and open space.

The Weekend in Philadelphia

2009-07-14T20:26:00.002-04:00

Our hotel

Mommy was very, very, very hungry, and Liam wanted to go check out the hotel, but...Daddy had to have a photo.

Bobby and Liam

Bobby in a cathedral (the name of which we can't remember) that was across the street from our hotel.

Bob and Liam had a blast hanging out after Mommy went to sleep. They took this picture with the camera timer.

The boys dropped Tonia off for the race a little before 6 a.m. They decided to do a little sight-seeing before her wave was scheduled to start. Above, Liam is running up the steps just like Rocky.

In front of the Liberty Bell.

Tonia at the race.

Liam insisted on taking care of my bike once the race was over.

The final days of school

2009-06-24T14:59:00.005-04:00

The last couple of days have been full of end of the school year activities. Tonia taught yoga to Liam's class, and a great time was had by all. On Tuesday evening we enjoyed a picnic with Liam's classmates and their families. Tonight is the last hockey practice until August. Hard to believe we don't have any scheduled ice time until August. The kid's last day of school will be Friday. And then...Grandma, Grandpa, and Gigi arrive to spend the weekend.

Below are several pictures of the yoga session in Liam's classroom.

Bob's Day

2009-06-22T17:23:00.002-04:00

The boys put together a puzzle. They were very happy to learn that it was as tall as Liam.

After breakfast we went on a long hike along the Hudson.

Liam thinks that he looks like the host of a nature show in this photo. The deer behind him was not afraid of us at all -- he just looked at us like we were his long lost friends. We actually saw him twice on our hike.

Now, Liam and I were not impressed with these hens because we see them all the time on the outside loop at Rockland Lake. Bob, on the other hand, thought they were the "bees knees." As many times as he has ridden the outside loop, he has never seen them. I, however, often have to avoid them, so that I won't crash -- hence, my "couldn't care less" attitude.

A few photos from the last several days

2009-06-09T20:06:00.002-04:00

The garden...it's coming along.

The view of the fireworks from our front lawn. They had fireworks on Friday and Saturday night to celebrate the opening of the town's new firehouse.

Spiderman came to our house this evening for some dancing and dinner.

Mommy, laughing at Spiderman.

Daddy and Spiderman before dinner.

Memorial Day Noonan Style

2009-05-26T08:38:00.004-04:00

We had a total chill-out day. The boys were served breakfast in bed while they watched cartoons (those two things never happen, so it was a huge treat.) After breakfast, Bob announced that kayaking was the event of the day. No complaints from Tonia or Liam, so we were off...

Our rig ready to roll.

Bob and Liam getting ready to kayak.

Liam loves to fish.

Mommy and Liam on our lunch break.

Bob and Liam are doing an experiment. They placed a nickle on the tracks. We are going to go back next week to see if it is still there, and if it is, to see what may have happened.

Mommy pretending to be a damsel in distress.

Getting ready to go home. He was a little upset that he couldn't fish anymore.

A cute little family we saw on our way home.

Liam is such a big help!

Once we got home we took a dip, made a nice fire, and bbq'd some salmon and veggies. It was such a beautiful day, we hated having to come in after dinner.

Prep for the Boys

2009-05-06T20:42:00.002-04:00

In the living room, mommy set-up Liam's schedule, cloths, school snacks, lunches, notes, sports equipment, and hockey registration for the boys. More notes, meals, and routines (Liam likes his routines) can be found in the kitchen. Bobby asked what happens if Tonia's flight is delayed by a day.

Some Happenings on Carlton Road

2009-05-03T21:38:00.002-04:00

The boys have started a garden. They are growing carrots, beats (Liam's favorites), peas, onions, tomatoes, brussel sprouts, and strawberries. They are also on the hunt for a blueberry bush.

Liam and Bob after dinner last night. The ice cream man came around so they each got a treat, as you might be able to tell from their green and blue mouths.

This afternoon, Liam and Bobby were watching some Dude Flick, so Tonia took advantage of the time to get a ride in. She decided to watch a Chic Flick.

And the first one in is...

2009-04-18T22:01:00.002-04:00

...freezing Tonia taking the first dip. It's only about 50 degrees.

She could only take two laps at a time before she had to take a shore-break.

Liam would not believe his parents that the water was cold. He put on a bathing suit and rash guard and jumped in. First words out of his mouth...

..."it's FREEZING!!!!!!!!"

Needless to say, it was the end of Liam's swimming.

It's that time of year again...

2009-04-15T07:50:00.002-04:00

Yes, it's true...we are opening the pool. Four weeks earlier than last year! The contest is on as to which Noonan will be the first in this season. Liam and Tonia both hold titles. Bobby says he's going for it this season.

Stay tuned for the annual wetsuit photos. And, of course the yearly photos of Bobby in scuba gear.

Easter at Grandma and Grandpa's

2009-04-14T10:48:00.004-04:00

Bobby and Gigi

Bobby and Tonia

The Noonans on Easter morning.

Bobby, Gigi, Liam, and Tonia before Mass.

Liam with his basket. Bobby made lots of suggestions for the Easter Bunny.

Liam's fav gift from his basket...an electric pencil sharpener.

Liam on an Egg Hunt.

A Glimpse at Last Week.

2009-03-22T08:22:00.004-04:00

Playing with his new favorite toy. Even though it gets him frustrated, he still doesn't stop.

Practicing yoga with Mommy at Yoga Haven.

Liam dancing with classmates at the First Grade Dance Festival.

Reading to Jeb, our house guest for the week.

Liam and Jeb.

A glimpse of the Dance Festival.

From GAA to O'Malley's

2009-03-08T20:34:00.006-04:00

Michael and Liam before Gaelic Football practice at 7:45 a.m.

The boys in the back of Bobby's car.

Mikey enjoying the ride.

Playing around before Liam's game.

Bobby and Mikey playing hockey in the backyard. Mikey wanted to wear Liam's helmet. For some time all four of us, Bobby, Tonia, Mikey and Liam played hockey, but we don't have any photos. The two die-hards who continued playing were Bobby and Mikey.

Mikey, our new hockey player/fan. He came in from playing and watched the Ranger game. He declared himself a NY Ranger fan, and said he wished that his parents would watch hockey more often.

Liam eventually moved on to building a forte.

After we took Mikey home, we went home to rest. Bobby and Liam got restless so they went on a five mile bike ride, while mommy took a bath. Once they got home from the ride, they wanted to go out to dinner. They took Mommy to O'Malley's in Nyack, and we had a wonderful time.

The owners gave Liam a cap and a t-shirt. Turns out that their children play Gaelic for Rockland GAA as well.

Liam took over the jukebox. Here you can see him dancing to Thunder Struck by AC/DC. They play this at all Ranger games.

A Hockey Sunday

2009-02-22T16:13:00.002-05:00

Liam, walking into the Ice House in Hackensack, NJ this morning. He skated as
a forward in his first game. The Pirates won in a shut-out, 3-0. Liam had one assist.

Half dressed and waiting for his second game at Sport-O-Rama in Suffern, NY. He goadtended, as is evident by the pads.

Covering the puck for a save.

Facing-off with a boy from the other team. Liam stopped this puck, but wasn't so lucky three more times against this kid (he was their main goal-scorer.)

Sitting next to his friend Kevin after the game. The Pirates lost by three points this afternoon. Even though they lost, Liam still played a very good game, and made some nice saves. He saw a lot of action today, because the majority of play was in the Pirates zone. Games like this are a great learning experience, and keep the kid on his toes. When we looked down ice, the other goalie was skating around in his zone enjoying himself, without a care in the world.

Livin' the Olympic Spirit in Lake Placid

2009-02-20T17:26:00.006-05:00

Our little house for the week.

Liam and Grandma skating on the Olympic Oval.

Grandma, Liam and Tonia on the Olympic Oval.

Liam in a bobsled. He has decided that he wants to be on the USA Bobsled team when he gets big. Poor little guy is almost two inches short to even ride on a bobsled. Hopefully, he will be able to get on the track next year.

Grandpa Tony, Liam, and Grandma at the base of the high jump.

Grandpa Tony, Liam, and Grandma ready for their medals.

The view from the start for the 120m high jump.

Liam snowshoeing.

Grandpa Tony and Grandma cross country skiing.

Tonia and Liam on a dog sled ride on Mirror Lake in Lake Placid.

Grandpa Tony taught Liam how to play chess. The two of them played a couple games. Liam won the last night...for real.

The first video is of Liam on an easy rail at Whiteface.

The other video is of the USA Women's Bobsled team doing a warm-up run for the World Championships.

Knit, Don't Hit

2009-02-15T18:46:00.001-05:00

"Knit, Don't Hit" is what Tonia wanted to put on a t-shirt. Grandpa Tony didn't think that the hockey player would want to wear a shirt that said that.

Officer Liam and Grandma

2009-02-15T16:45:00.002-05:00

Officer Liam was at our house on Valentine's Day. Grandma got a ticket for not waiting for her grandson. She was then arrested -- she claims it was a false arrest.

The above picture cracks us up. Note the police car behind mom. The house alarm across the street went off, so the police showed up to check it out. We all thought the timing of it all was very funny.

Grandma and Liam reading a bedtime book while enjoying a nice fire.

Snow Day!

2009-01-28T13:46:00.003-05:00

We decided to go sledding first thing this morning. Liam had a hard time getting his sled out from under the pile of snow. When he finally got it free, he found that a huge block of ice had formed inside the sled.

We walked up to the high school to sled. We got first tracks...and probably last, because about an hour and a half after we started sledding the precipitation turned from snow to ice/rain. Today it really paid off to be such early birds.

Winter Fun

2009-01-25T14:07:00.003-05:00

Our hockey player, who was up before 6 a.m. this morning for his 7 a.m. game.

Daddy and Liam went for a cycle so that Liam could work on changing gears. Bob said the kid changed gears 1, 2, 3, no problem. Mommy was impressed, yet not really surprised, that the boys went out for a ride -- it's 24 degrees, which is a heatwave around here lately.

Reading has opened a whole new world.

2009-01-21T19:22:00.003-05:00

Liam has taken to reading the newspaper now that Obama is in office. He especially wants to see any pictures or articles that have to do with Sasha Obama, who is also seven.

Liam also wanted to check on the markets. He gets that from watching Daddy.

P.S. The cowboy hat got ripped at school today and needs to get fixed. He was upset, but quickly got over the ordeal.

"Round up the little dowgies"

2009-01-21T08:11:00.002-05:00

Liam has decided that he will wear his cowboy hat all day, everyday, from now on. We told him while he is at home he can, but he does need to take it off in school, and at church. He thought about it, and decided he could live with that.

In the above photo he has a lasso, and is "rounding up the little dowgies." He told me dowgies means cows. Don't know if that is true, but it sounded good to me.

A Fun Ski Day

2009-01-19T21:01:00.003-05:00

A sleepy little guy on the way to the mountain.

Bob asked me to take lots of pictures today. I didn't do such a great job, because I had to keep up with Liam. There wasn't time to stop to get the camera out, this kid skies off the lift and just goes. All you hear is, "follow me."

The above photo, however, was taken because I yelled for him to stop when I noticed where he decided to drop in. I wasn't afraid for him (although maybe I should have been), I just wanted to get a photo for Daddy. Bob would have liked to have been there for Liam's first double black.

"Time to start smokin' the wheels"

2009-01-17T19:57:00.007-05:00

"Time to start smokin' the wheels," is what we heard all day long. Since is was 3 degrees outside this morning, Bob had the idea of putting the bike on the trainer so that Liam could ride it. Needless to say, Liam thought that was the bees knees. He was on the bike the entire day. The only time he got off was to go to hockey practice, to eat, and to clean the playroom. When we had to take him off for bed he had some separation anxiety.

The above photo is entirely for Bobby. He is so stoked that the bike has Shimano components, and some fancy shocks that I can't remember the name of.

Everyone got into the act today. Mommy and Daddy tried it out, but were only allowed a couple minutes each. That was okay with them, because they are both a tad large for the 20.

After dinner, Liam wanted to get a good look at the bike. He got out a flashlight and spent some quality time with his new ride.

At one point things got a little crazy. We had a wild, pirate, bike party going on in the family room. Auntie Kathleen sent Liam a cool CD by Captain Begg & Salty, a group from Portland, OR. Liam thinks they are AWESOME. While mommy cleaned up after dinner, the boys blasted the music and Liam road his bike.

Some Women Get Jewels, Some Prefer New Sports Equipment

2009-01-09T20:06:00.002-05:00

Tonia's Christmas present arrived yesterday, and she picked it up today. Bob gave her a 2009 Cervelo S1, and she loves it. Bob knows the way to Tonia's heart -- last year he gave her some sweet skies, this year a beautiful bike.

Random shots from the weekend.

2009-01-05T10:20:00.005-05:00

On Friday, we surprised Bobby with an "It's Celebrate Daddy Day." We met him at the door with his slippers, hugs, and gifts. Got him some new ski pants and a hat, since he ripped his pants in CO and lost his hat sometime after we got home. Then we made a yummy dinner and watched a silly movie.

The gym that Bob made out of our Living room got some good use. Bob and some of the neighborhood kids all got in a workout.

Liam went sledding on what remained of the snow.

Mommy baked some yummy pumpkin bread. Liam said she could wear his chef hat.

Mommy and Liam struck a pose before Karate on Saturday morning.

Chef Liam Delivers One Yummy Meal

2008-12-30T21:17:00.005-05:00

One thing is for sure...Liam loves to cook. He did not, however, inherit that from his Mommy or Daddy.

This evening her prepared a lovely veggie soup and rolls -- all from scratch, and most tasty.

Making the rolls.

Taking a banana break.

Making a call before eating the second banana.

Mixing the veggies to make a puree.

Preparing the rolls.

Liam had the bowls set up and ready to serve. He garnished with orange rind and some parsley

Liam also made a cranberry, peach, and mango juice (the kid loves to make juices!) Mommy thought it tasted good, so she made a martini with it...yummy.

Liam Ratatouille Style

They partied like it was 1999

2008-12-28T09:24:00.004-05:00

This is what the boys looked like this morning at 9:30 a.m..

Yesterday we did something crazy at the Noonan house. It was "No Rules" day.

We just hung out, read books, watched movies and the Ranger game, played games, and ate leftovers. Liam prepared snacks for all of carrots, kiwi, and Mouse Munch.

Mommy went to bed at about 8 p.m.. I heard Liam being put to bed at 10 p.m. Who knows what time Bob went to sleep.

I'll spare you the photo of what the family room looked like when I saw it this morning. Let's just say I spent some time cleaning up blankets, plates, bowls, cups, Ranger #1 Fan fingers, and pillows. I won't ask...

Christmas Morning

2008-12-25T09:05:00.006-05:00

Checking out the tree.

Over dinner last night, much discussion was given as to what to leave for Santa. We decided that he might like a beer. Beck's Light was chosen for obvious reasons. We also left a piece of chocolate from Daddy's private stash, and a cookie.

Liam was very happy that Santa brought the exact hockey stick that he wanted.

Grandma Irene gave him this Chef hat. We are sure that he will want to help with dinner this evening.

Liam loves, loves, loves music so we got him his own iPod Nano.

Christmas Spectacular on Christmas Eve

2008-12-25T08:54:00.006-05:00

Liam and Tonia went to Radio City Music Hall to watch the Christmas Spectacular. Liam loved it. He especially enjoy seeing, "the real Santa who came down from the North Pole."

We went to the Children's Mass on Christmas Eve. Our church can get very cold, as you can see Tonia dressed in many, many layers. She was trying to dress up a little without having to wear ski gear to church.

Writers Celebration

2008-12-23T00:31:00.003-05:00

Liam's class had a Writers Celebration Monday. All the children wrote stories about what snowmen do at night while we are asleep. It was so cute to hear the kids read them aloud. After they shared their masterpieces, we all enjoyed some yummy refreshments.

Liam's story was about a snowman who broke into our shed, stole his sled, and went sledding all night.

Liam and his teacher, Miss Beglin.

Fresh powder almost every day...now that's the life!

2008-12-22T14:35:00.012-05:00

Liam and Wyatt. Liam really enjoyed hanging out with Wyatt. He thinks he is really cool. Mendie and Jordan gave him the Buffs shirt that he is wearing. Might I add that it currently is his favorite aritcle of clothing.

The Noonans and the Welus. We met again this year for lunch. That Wyatt and Sylvie are so d___ cute!! We are hoping that next year they will be able to meet us for some skiing as well as chow. By then, Wyatt might be able to rock that helmet while ripping on the mountain.

Our hotel, The Great Divide Lodge, which was ski in/ski out. The above and below shots were taken from the same spot. Bob took the first, did a 180, then took the second.

Top of the Imperial Express Lift, which is the highest ski lift in North America. The Imperial Bowl was one of our favorites this year. A couple days we had awesome conditions. One day however, Bob got caught in a slide that carried him for about 60 feet. Nothing major, but a little unnerving non-the-less. All week we kept hearing reports that the conditions were ripe for avalanches. We usually think that the warnings are more for those skiing back country, because the resorts do so much Avi blasting. But...three guys actually got caught in an avalanche in one of Vail's back bowls while we were there.

Taking a break to do a powder Happy Dance in Breck's Contest Bowl.

Bob's self-portrait.

Tonia and Liam after an amazing Italian dinner. We had a mild panic when we couldn't find our favorite Italian restaurant. Turns out they moved.

Liam spent much apres ski time writing and drawing.

One day at the top of the Six Chair the wind was so strong that when I got off the lift, the wind pushed me back toward the chair. After that we decided we needed a little chill time in the warming hut. Bob took the above picture as my pole was flying away.

I don't, as a rule, like to have a beer until I've have finished skiing for the day, but on occasion I'll take a sip of Bobby's. It seems like every time I decide to take a sip of his beer he snaps a photo. To look at our photos from the past several years you would think that I really tie one on when skiing.

The response he got after the beer photo.

Bobby loving the mountain life.

Enjoying lots of fresh snow, and fun tree skiing at Vail.

Liam in his raccoon hat. Yes, he picked it out all by himself.

Bob asked me to post this photo. Chain restrictions were in place on almost all our journeys in the High Country this trip.

The Noonan boys relaxing.

So much to do...

2008-12-09T06:55:00.003-05:00

Liam decided that he would check out the lights to see if they were all working. He was trying to get Bob outside to hang them...didn't happen because it was very dark, and Bob didn't want either of them to get hurt. Liam was disappointed for about five minutes. Then...

...He decided to re-tape some hockey sticks. Good thing, because these were in some serious need of re-taping. Note the paint brush -- that was to dust off Mommy's stick. Cute kid, real cute, I get the hint.

Decorating

2008-12-07T19:10:00.003-05:00

Liam thought he should wear the hard-hat to protect his head form falling ornaments.

The Busy Holiday Weekend

2008-11-30T18:55:00.006-05:00

Liam and Grandma taking vegi platter (that Liam made) to hospice for Thanksgiving.

Liam and Grandma prepping the turkey. Liam declared this disgusting! Think he might become a vegi chef.

Gigi watching the tree decoration.

Grandpa Tony and Bob putting the lights on Liam's tree.

Gigi and Liam in front of Liam's tree.

Grandpa Tony and Liam.

Daddy and Grandpa Tony caught making bunny ears over Liam's head.

Liam before flight.

Bobby checking the plane.

Bob landing in Easton.

The plane.

Liam playing on the farm where we landed.

Liam and Clark (Bob's friend.)

Liam and Tonia in flight.

Bob and Liam at breakfast, before heading to NYC for the Ranger game.

Tonia and Liam after the Ranger game.

2008-11-23T14:02:00.002-05:00

Bob on his bike doing his cool-down after his afternoon ride yesterday. Couldn't believe he went for a ride in the very windy, 32 degree weather.

Liam from his first game today (he skated as a forward.) Didn't get any photos from the second game where he goal tended. The Pirates won both games.

Have you seen the Thanksgiving turkey?

2008-11-20T11:15:00.002-05:00

Liam had to disguise a turkey so that he wouldn't be cooked for Thanksgiving. He decided to hide the turkey in goalie gear. Henrik Lundqvist to be exact. So, you won't believe this one. Liam has a schedule conflict tomorrow afternoon -- birthday party, and a hockey practice (where he will play goalie.) When asked which one he would prefer to attend, he said hockey practice! Absolutely unbelievable. He looked at me like I'd lost my mind to even think there would be a contest between goal tending or partying it up.

Finally a Goalie! Yet still a forward as well.

2008-11-16T15:16:00.002-05:00

Liam is one happy, happy little man at the moment. He gets to play two hockey games on Sundays now! Liam will be playing Goalie for one of Pearl River's house teams. He will also play on his regular team as a forward. This morning, he skated in a game at 6 a.m.. This afternoon, he tended goal at 1 p.m.

Liam and Tyler.

Who says dreams can't come true?

2008-11-04T20:33:00.005-05:00

Tonight was HUGE for Liam! He got to play the position of goaltender!! Ever since he first discovered ice hockey, he has wanted to be a goalie. The coaches and his parents have had other ideas, however. Those silly people keep pushing him to play as a forward.

Liam did a very good job this evening, he made some nice saves. The coach has said that he would like to try Liam out in the position in some more games as the season progresses.
Only problem...the gear is still a little too big for him. He wasn't taking that as an excuse not to play.

Coach Bill is helping Liam get into the gear.

Getting ready to hit the ice.

The two goalies warming up. Sean, the other goaltender, was kind enough to give Liam some pointers before the game.

Worker Men

2008-11-01T08:46:00.001-04:00

The Noonan men went off to work this morning. Liam will work a half day, so that he can make it to hockey at 12:30. His driver, Mommy, will pick him up.

Halloween Take 2 -- The Parade

2008-10-31T20:45:00.003-04:00

Our town put on a cool Halloween Parade. This was the first year they tried this. The whole point was to make trick-or-treating safe for the kids. Those of us who attended thought it was a brilliant idea, and the kids LOVED it. Above is Liam and Kristen, who was in his kindergarten class and who lives around the corner. She is the girl he informed us was his "girlfriend" last year. He also told me at one point that he plans to marry her if someone else doesn't ask her first.

The police blocked off the street, then a Fire Truck lead the crowd. There was one truck in front and several behind lighting the way.

As the parade moved along, the kids would stop at houses for candy. A lot of families had someone waiting out front to hand the candy out (we had Bobby at that post) -- it was easy to hear the sirens and the kids, and to see the bright lights of the parade approaching.

Ninja Noonan

2008-10-31T11:09:00.006-04:00

It was a big day at William O'Schaefer (or Willie O'Schaefer, as Liam calls it.) We had a parade, an Art/Music Show, and a Cast Party. Liam, the Ninja -- his mask is on inside-out, but guess that happens when you take it off every two minutes -- in the parade.

Liam with some of his friends.

Some of Liam's art work.

A little taste of the music portion of the show.

2008-10-28T08:26:00.003-04:00

A flier for Liam's band. He wanted to paper the school with them, but we put a stop to him even asking.

Liam's Treasure Chest. He has really developed a love of reading and writing lately. He thinks he is very cool that he stays "up late" reading in bed. Along with writing stories, Liam, the "rock star," has also started writing songs.

The boys last night watching the Ranger game as they ate dinner.

Hockey Fever

2008-10-19T16:42:00.002-04:00

We have no idea where Liam gets all his energy. The Kid had a 6 a.m. hockey game in New Jersey this morning, so we were up at 4:30 a.m. to get to the rink on time. Liam played his best game to date -- got tons of ice-time, scored a goal, and made an assist (or two.) After church and breakfast, he attended a hockey clinic. After the clinic he asked if we would take him to the outdoor roller-hockey rink so that he could practice. Of course we said yes -- he then proceeded to practice for two hours! Daddy and I finally called the practice and took the little man to dinner (at 3 p.m.)

Liam swears that he isn't tired. At the moment he is riding his bike. We anticipate a 6:30 - 7 p.m. bedtime.
This photo was taken right before he changed for dinner. He was snacking on a muffin as he made his way from the car to the front door.

Hockey Mom.

While Tonia and Liam spent the entire morning in a hockey rink, Bobby went golfing. Above he is modeling with his new driver.

The new putter. Oewww, ahhhh.

Party, Party, Party...

2008-10-08T11:18:00.003-04:00

Tonia and Bobby went to Ireland for Bob's cousin David's wedding. While the parents were away, the Grandparents stayed with Liam.Liam wasn't too concerned with the fact that Mommy and Daddy were going to Ireland without him. He had a week with his favorite playmate -- Grandma. Yes, that is Grandma on a scooter!

Grandpa Tony wasted no time in setting up his computer.

Ireland: At the reception... Tonia and Bobby's sister, Patsy.

Bob's brother Billy and his wife Deirdre.

Tonia and Bobby after dancing The Siege of Venice (hence the shiny, slightly wet glow.)

Day after the wedding at Spillane's (the Noonan's local pub.) It's tradition to have a big party the day after...rest comes on Monday.
Bob with his cousins William and David, and David's friend.

Tonia with the Bride, Carmel.

Bobby picked out the gifts for our little guy...tambourine and harmonica. As you can see, Liam couldn't wait to play his new instruments. Before getting ready for school this morning he went downstairs for a little music-making.

Afternoon At The Lake

2008-09-22T18:34:00.003-04:00

Bob went to see the All Ireland Football Finals on Sunday morning. When he got home, we decided to go on a little fishing/kayak adventure. Once the truck was packed we were off to Lake Tiorati in Harriman State Park.

Liam digging for worms while Bob preps a fishing rod.

Tonia paddling out.

Liam fishing, as Tonia paddles back.

Bob backing out. Bob took a paddle around the lake, then came back got his fishing rod, and went fishing from the kayak.

2008-09-15T21:30:00.002-04:00

Saturday night Tonia and Bobby went to a fun retirement party.

Sunday, Liam took the 17 foot kayak for a test drive in the pool.

Rainy Day. What to do?

2008-09-13T07:11:00.002-04:00

Today was very wet, so Liam wasn't able to play outside at school. When he came home it was pouring, so he wasn't able to play outside once again. (If it had been drizzling, would have been a different story.) Master Liam entertained himself with his guitar, and then built a drum set.

After Karate and dinner, Daddy and Liam found more fun in the basement. Below is what Mommy discovered when she walked downstairs...

We Need To Get This Kid Some Lessons

2008-09-10T20:48:00.002-04:00

Liam is still loving his guitar, and is playing away, but...he plays the same "song" over, and over, and over, and...

This afternoon Rocker LJ informed Mommy that he needed to go out back to practice. At one point Tonia walked outside to see him serenading the next door neighbor. We think it is high-time for some lessons.

First Day of School

2008-09-03T08:45:00.002-04:00

Today was the first day of school for our First Grader, Master Liam.
As soon as Liam was on the bus, Mommy was off for a three mile run. Below is one happy Mommy after her run.

Fossil Dig

2008-08-29T08:32:00.002-04:00

Could we have a budding paleontologist? It's no secret that Liam loves dinosaurs, digging, and finding cool old stuff. This morning he started a dig for fossils in the backyard. I was amazed that he knew what instruments were needed.

Liam Lovin' Life

2008-08-28T07:47:00.005-04:00

Two familiar sites in one photo...Liam in the fridge looking for something yummy to eat, and "The Kid" on his blades.

This kid is lovin' life. He has been on the go...Last week he went to hockey camp and was on the ice for three hours each morning. After camp he hung-out at the pool and enjoyed playdates with friends. One would think that he would have been tired and ready to retire, but no he wanted to go to Karate every night.

This week he has already helped Daddy chop a tree down, gone to yoga with Mommy, toured the Museum of Natural History, played in Central Park, roller bladed six miles with Mommy, roller bladed some more with his friends, had an ice hockey lesson with his coach, had a couple playdates, rode his new bike (hand-me-down from neighbor) and his old bike, gotten his "best haircut ever," gone on a short hike with Mommy, gone to Karate, played golf in the back yard (to include digging holes for putting practice), hit balls at the driving range with Daddy, built an airplane (above photo), played his guitar, and played in the pool. To think...this was all done by Wednesday night!

Today is a completely blank slate. Tomorrow's plans include: a parent/child karate class in the a.m., a visit to the library, and an ice hockey playdate with two of Liam's friends and their parents (yes, the two Mommies, one Dad and kids will all skate together) in the afternoon.

Ah, to have the energy of a six-year-old boy. The big question...How will this child deal with having to sit at a desk all day?

Family Time In Oregon

2008-08-16T21:15:00.009-04:00

We have finally recovered enough from our jet-lag and long nights of Olympic viewing to post a blog. Taking a few moments now to post while we watch the Women's Marathon.

This is a long post, so grab a snack and a drink ;)
Before heading to the beach Bob, the kids and I rode bikes to breakfast, while Kathleen and Resa went running, and Brock fixed his van for the trip. Tonia was lucky enough to get to try-out K's new ride.

Mom and Dad did a great job on the house front this year. It was the best crib yet!
Lots of fun was had in the water. For the first couple days the kids just splashed around. By the final two days Ellis and Liam were getting on the longboards, and by the last day all three had boogie boards. Must say it is amazing that the kids spent as much time in the water as they did -- they were only wearing shorties and didn't have boots, gloves or hoodies (like the adult surfers.)
Bob and Brock post surf.

Auntie K and Ellis (in Tonia's hoodie.)

The entire crew went for a hike at Cape LOOKOUT! Above photo is the bird watchers Bobby watching.

Both sets of kids posing inside a cool tree.

Post surf session enjoying a very fun, yummy meal at the local Mexican restaurant.

Aunt Marie, Auntie K, and Auntie Tonia.

Brock's "Daddy Van." The kids spent a lot of time with Uncle Brock taking walks on the beach and going for chow. If a choice was given, they wanted to ride in the "Daddy Van."

The Marias -- Resa and Marie.

Kiley running a beer to Uncle Brock. Very serious business!

Tim and Marie hatched a plan...a kayak/canoe trip on the Nestucca River. Bob and Marie kayaked, while Tim, Tonia and Kathleen canoed. We thought it was going to be a very restful, chill-ride. Turns out we timed it slightly wrong and had to paddle against the current for about 3/4 of the trip. No worries, much fun was had...and we ended up getting a little exercise.

Kathleen was in charge of taking photos and distributing beers and snacks.

The family photo session on top of the dune where the kids spent much of their time. This dune was across from the house, so we could easily keep an eye on them.

Liam mid-air as he jumped off a rock at the Pelican Pub.

On the trip back to Portland, Bob, Tonia, Marie and Liam stopped at the Tillamook Air Museum.

The last day of the trip the Noonans, Tyvands and Lowers took a three mile hike near Horseshoe Tail Falls. The kids did an amazing job.

Uncle Tim learned more than he probably ever wanted to know about Webkinz. Liam and Ellis shared interesting details with him for the entire hike.

Tonia holding up the rocks so that the others could pass behind the falls.

Uncle Tim, Auntie Resa and Liam.

Kiley's ride for some of the hike.

After the hike we meet up with Grandma and Grandpa at Edgefield (where K and Brock had their wedding) for our final meal as a group this trip.

Liam at Dharma's

2008-07-28T18:26:00.002-04:00

Liam went to Dharma Mittra's with Tonia who taught class this morning. He took class and lasted almost the entire hour and a half.

Liam in his favorite pose, Cobra.

Liam with one of Tonia's teachers, Eva, and her dog Pepper.

The Way to Snack

2008-07-27T19:35:00.003-04:00

Liam was hungry for something yummy, so he went out back and picked an apple and a pear. Doesn't get much better than that.

Tonia Takes Off

2008-07-27T16:26:00.005-04:00

Getting briefed on what to do and what not to do.

Liam loves the quad exhaust tips. He has taken to noticing how many pipes are on all cars now-a-days.

See you later alligator...

Fun, fun, fun, fun, fun day!!

2008-07-26T20:41:00.008-04:00

What an outstanding day. Very busy, yet very relaxing.

The day started with us picking up Bobby's new car. He ordered it several months ago. It arrived earlier this week, but BMW had to get it ready.

After we got the car we were off to Family Fun Day at Liam's camp, Day Camp In The Park. This camp is an old sleep away camp that is now a day camp. There still is a sleep away component, but that is for the much older kids.

Above is the Art Center.

Liam and Tonia thoroughly enjoyed the lake. They swam, jumped on a trampoline, slid down the slide, walked on a log type thing (blue object in above photo), and climbed "The Iceberg" which is a huge white structure that you climb and then slide down.

We took a turn around the lake on a row boat.

Tonia rode the bike boat while Liam and Bobby kayaked.

We drove home from Family Fun Day and stumbled upon this cool little outdoor pub with live music. We decided to stop for a drink and dinner.

Guitar Man

2008-07-22T17:05:00.005-04:00

Liam got his first guitar. He hasn't started lessons yet, but he still feels that he can play well enough to entertain us -- rather regularly as of late, as a matter of fact.

This is how Tonia was greeted at the door when she arrived home from her weekend away. (Mommy went to the beach to visit her friend Debbie from U of M.)

American Girl Doll Day

2008-07-05T19:25:00.002-04:00

Auntie Kathleen and Tonia took Ellis and Kiley to the American Girl Doll Store in NYC today. The girls each picked out outfits for their dolls. The girls didn't ask for one thing -- we don't think they had time because Auntie K and Tonia wanted to buy everything in the store.

The dolls, Kaya and Josiphina, got facials and their hair done at the American Doll Hair Salon.

Of course Tonia enjoyed the dolls immensely. Auntie Kathleen was so sweet and bought Tonia a miniature Elizabeth doll. (Resa you were right, Tonia did walk out of the store owning a doll.)

Night One of the 40th B-day Weekend

2008-07-04T21:30:00.006-04:00

Enjoying some swing time.

Liam introduced the girls to hockey.

Kiley ready for a swim. Such a fashionista.

The four kids taking a dip.

Chillin' by the pool.

Ellis and Grandma.

Grandma receives a package.

How exciting.....

...it's Liam!

Kiley, Liam, Auntie Tonia, the Birthday girl Auntie Kathleen, and Ellis.

Ellis in Mommies Pjs.

Stay posted...

Yellow Belt

2008-07-01T19:48:00.004-04:00

Liam earned his yellow belt yesterday. He has also moved from The Basics Course to The Black Belt Course. Basically that means that he is serious about Karate and wants to work toward his Black Belt.

Things could get interesting...he is learning Kung Fu at camp...

Maryland visit

2008-07-01T08:34:00.002-04:00

Bingo

Dinner

Cool kids on the way to visit Sally (Mom's neighbor who the kids love.)

MJ, Mom, and Kathleen.

The kids on their pirate ship.

Dresser finally finds a home...

2008-06-24T21:26:00.002-04:00

This dresser has finally made it's way to the basement where it will serve to store some of Liam's toys and art supplies. Tonia is one happy, happy woman this evening. She has been waiting two years to get the dresser out of the living room where it had been placed "for the moment."

Flora & Fauna

2008-06-23T08:23:00.003-04:00

The seeds have sprouted. Or should we say, one of the pots of seeds has sprouted. We aren't sure what is growing. Liam did have some mystery seeds. Does anyone know what is growing? Anyone.....anyone....? Marie...? Nick...? Maybe we will have a beanstalk, like Jack's.
Note the pot in the background. A chipmunk has been digging away. In an effort to keep the squirrels and chipmunks away from Liam and my plants, we put up corn. Bob thanked us for inviting even more chipmunks and squirrels to our home. We now have a few more than normal, but the good news is that they aren't bothering our plants at the moment.

Might not be able to see this picture all that clearly. It is a showdown between a squirrel and a chipmunk over the last bit of corn on the cob.

Marathon Monopoly

2008-06-15T12:10:00.002-04:00

The boys are in the midst of a marathon Monopoly game. They started the game last night and played for two hours. The only reason they stopped after two hours was because Liam had to go to bed. As soon as Daddy woke up this morning they were back to the game, only to be interrupted for breakfast. Looks like we may have another break in play for some outdoor-time.

Mr. Landscaper

2008-06-15T11:59:00.005-04:00

Liam has been up to a lot of landscaping as of late. This week he planted more flowers, trimmed hedges, did some weeding, and planted seeds that he has saved from various fruits and veggies.

He was very excited to see that his squash plants have started to flower.

Up the Kingdom!

2008-06-10T07:56:00.003-04:00

This is how the little Kerry Man went to school this morning.
Grandma Chris, you will be happy to know that he yelled, "UP THE KINGDOM!" before the photo was taken.

He Took His Parent to Class

2008-06-07T20:59:00.003-04:00

Today was "Take Your Parent to Class Day" at Thomas Clifford's Martial Arts. Liam was very excited and asked me to go to class with him. We couldn't believe it, I was the only parent who attended his class. He was very protective of me, and made sure that I was doing everything correctly.

At his T-ball game this evening, Tonia spoke with a mother of a child on Liam's team. Turns out that she was the only mother at her sons Karate class. We were very surprised that more parents didn't take advantage of such a fun offer.

Field Day

2008-06-06T18:02:00.005-04:00

Liam with his cousin Michael, and friends Cian, Robert and Samantha.

Liam's teachers Mrs. Coughlin and Mrs. Leseca.

Coughlin's Karate Kids.

The Table

2008-06-06T17:49:00.002-04:00

Our new dinning room table, minus the leaves.
The table from Liam's vantage point.

It's the end of the world as we know it! Or, is it?

2008-06-06T07:25:00.003-04:00

About 6:45 a.m. (45 minutes before Master Liam usually gets up) one six-year-old announced, with much desperation, how hungry he was. He proclaimed that he needed breakfast at that moment or he might not make it.

Mommy told him that it wouldn't be the end of the world if we waited a couple minutes (she had to try to get her eyes open and put her feet on the floor.) Liam's response, "How can we know that?!?!?!?"

Guess The Kid has a point, how do we know that it wouldn't be the end of the world as we know it.

Note: The above photo was taken once the belly was full of oatmeal.

A Beautiful Hike So Close to Home

2008-06-01T20:23:00.002-04:00

We took a hike today in Harriman State Park which is about 15 minutes from our house. It was absolutely beautiful.

After our hike, we visited the "Day Camp In the Park" where Liam will be going to camp this July. The place is really cool -- he is so excited. Bob and I thought we might like to go as well, but we are both a little over the age limit.

Liam's Restaurant

2008-05-31T20:45:00.004-04:00

Liam decided that he would make dinner for the Noonans this evening. He made a wonderful salad of field greens, herbs, apples, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, cashews, almonds and lots and lots of balsamic vinaigrette. Warm peasant bread was served as a side dish. The meal was complimented with champagne and sparkling water. For dessert, he chose to serve the cookies Mommy baked this morning.

Not only did Liam cook and serve the entire meal, he also did all the cleaning up afterwards. The only help that he asked for while preparing dinner was for Mommy to put the bread in the oven, and for daddy to open the champagne. Absolutely everything else was taken care of by Liam...including setting the table and lighting the candle (with supervision of course.)

A Birthday & Promise of the Tooth-fairy

2008-05-30T07:16:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was Bob's birthday. We made him his favorite dinner -- served with champagne, of course. As you can see, we've decided to use candles for how old we feel as opposed to how old we actually are.

Liam had a little accident on the playground and ended up at the dentist (for the second time yesterday, I might add. He had a cavity filled just two hours prior to the mishap.) The Kid had to have a tooth removed and has to eat soft foods for 24 hours. The dentist recommended ice cream for dinner. You won't be surprised to hear that Liam was okay with that.

That Time of Year Again

2008-05-24T08:45:00.004-04:00

The boys went for a late evening swim. Although it was rather chilly, Liam talked Bobby into taking a dip. Like father, like son.

Our neighbors think we are nuts!

Liam letting us know he is brave. Has a 2 mil shorty on, compared to Bob's 4/3 with hoodie and boots.

It's Official...Pool is Open!

2008-05-23T07:31:00.002-04:00

Both water and air logged in at 61 degrees yesterday, but that didn't stop Master LJ Noonan from taking a dip.

An Outrage and An Imposition!

2008-05-21T20:46:00.003-04:00

Liam came home to see the above display on the kitchen table. He thought it was absolutely outrageous that Mommy used the cookie jar as a flower vase. Mommy thought it was cute. Liam thought it was an imposition.