JennChops

Kisses for Daddy

2012-02-16T03:34:00.002-05:00

One day I was walking through the dining room and noticed that Adler was talking to the pictures of Dave and giving them kisses. He even had a play date over that day and was showing the little girl pictures of Dave. It was really sweet. I snapped these pictures of Adler.

He still kisses Dave's pictures and has started giving the pictures of him hugs too. He loves and misses his Dad so much. Adler is just like Dave. Very loving and compassionate.

Halloween 2010

2012-02-16T03:11:00.001-05:00

We had a lot of Halloween fun.

Here is Adler helping me with our trunk for trunk or Treat.

Adler at Trunk or Treat

Halloween Party

We went to a Halloween party in Cambridge. My brother sent Adler this costume so we could represent the Sooners!

Adler was the cutest little horse ever.

Riding the T.

Carving Pumpkins

Woburn Halloween Parade

When we lived in Woburn the Parade was just down the street from us. We would always go. It was fun to take Adler again this year. We joined some of our friends and picked up lots of candy that was thrown our way.

Halloween Night

We went Trick or Treating with our friends Camden and Darian. We just went up and down our street but it was a lot of fun and so cute to see Adler holding out his bag for candy.

Fall 2010 Happenings

2012-02-16T00:38:00.000-05:00

Wilson Farms

I love Fall in New England. Dave and I loved going to Wilson Farms to pick up groceries and check out the free samples. Adler and I loved to go ride the Halloween Hayride, get a treat from the bakery, and get some chocolate milk. Hmm...I could really go for some of their baked goods right now.

I made some carmel apples for my BUNCO group!

Jenn+Kitchen= Disaster

I was pretty proud of myself for the way these came out.

Play dates!

We love these two!!

Fall in New England!

Adler trying to shovel some leave while his Opa looks on.

Adler and his Omi.

Adler playing in his room.

Every Friday we visit Dave's grave to bring him flowers.

This was on a beautiful and crisp New England day.

We Love you Dave.

Fall 2010 - Wadsworth Cemetery

2012-02-11T00:33:00.000-05:00

Wadsworth Cemetery is beautiful. Its an old New England country cemetery and it was established in 1627. There are headstones from 1627 to present day. I love it. It is very peaceful. Adler and I would visit Dave's grave every Friday. We would pick up flowers and then give them to Daddy. Adler and i would walk through the small cemetery.

I have seen wild turkey and wild deer in the cemetery. Across from Dave's grave is a grove of trees and then some wetlands. I can just picture Dave exploring that area. I'm sure its the first thing he would have done.

The cemetery is perfect and peaceful. It is the perfect place for Dave and eventually me. I love the trees, the stone wall, the history. I love it.

September 2010 - Service

2012-02-10T23:49:00.001-05:00

Dave and I were working on our yard when he died. I was overwhelmed with offers of people that wanted to do something for us. I mentioned to my Bishop that if anyone wanted to help with the yard that would be great. I thought maybe a few people might help me pull some weeds. Little did I know, I was about to get a new yard.

A date was set and I was shocked at the number of people that came out, the amount of work that was done, and the generosity of the members of my church. I was released from the hospital the day before they came. I was still really weak and I couldn't help and I felt horrible for that but I could barley move with out having to use my inhalers.

Here are a few pictures of the work they did. The yard was like a jungle. The landlord was renting the backyard out to a hippie that planted all sorts of plants and then abandoned her work. It was out of control!
I just want to say thank you for all of the hard work and for everyone that volunteered their time to help me and Adler. The work you did was a wonderful blessing for my family.

Before Photos

My brother Jeff helped us. He stayed with us that Summer.

We filled about 38 of these bags with yard waste BEFORE the big clean up.

Work in Progress

After!

AMAZING!!!!

September 2010 - Pneumonia

2012-02-04T00:05:00.000-05:00

Yikes! I ended up with Pneumonia 3 weeks after Dave died. I knew I was sick but I thought I had Bronchitis. I had just picked up my prescription from CVS. I went home and when I walked in the house, I sat on the couch and started shaking uncontrollably. It was dinner time and Adler was hungry and needed a diaper change. I was shaking so much that I couldn't even pick him up. I have never felt so helpless in my entire life. I kept trying to call my friend and neighbor Jodi but my phone was not dialing her. That's when I thought to myself, Call Leah. My friend Leah was on her way to dinner with her new friend Emily. My phone dialed her number and when she answered I think I said,

Leah, The baby is crying and hungry I am sick and I need help.

Leah turned the car around and headed my way. They came in and took charge of everything and I just sort of passed out on the couch. Leah took care of me. Emily took care of Adler, and I remember seeing Jodi there too. She took care of me the rest of the week. That is until she went out of town and so did all of the other women I know. There was a big women's conference in Connecticut that weekend and it seemed like everyone I knew was there. Me and my friend Ellen seemed to be the only LDS women in town that decided not to go. Haha!

My Mother-In-Law was watching Adler and Ellen came to see me late one night. I put on a movie and fell asleep. My friend Janna in Oklahoma texted me to see what my temperature was and to see how I was doing. My temperature was 105. That's when I realized that a trip to the ER was in my future. Ellen drove me and I was admitted to the hospital. After some X-Rays I was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia. I spent 6 days in the hospital and was finally released.

While I was there my Mother-In-Law brought Adler to come and see me. I was so thankful for that and for all of her help. I was also thankful to my Brother and Sister-In-Law for watching Adler while Margaret was in CT. And I cant forget to mention that I am also thankful to my boss. She was supportive and understanding. Thanks L!

I am incredibly blessed to have such an amazing support system. There wasn't a day that passed that I didn't have a visitor. I was missing Dave so much so those visits brought a lot of happiness to my day.

Adler and his cousin Natalie.

Adler playing in my hospital bed. I couldn't believe how weak it made me.

Adler checking out the halls of Winchester Hospital

September 2010 - Danvers Truck Day

2012-02-03T01:18:00.000-05:00

The city of Danvers had a day when they put all of the city trucks on display. It was the perfect activity for Adler and his buddy Miss D.

September 2010 - Lake Champlain, VT

2012-02-03T01:08:00.001-05:00

For Labor Day weekend my Friend Amy invited me and Adler to join her and her family at thier cabin in Vermont. I am so happy they did. It forced me to get up out of Bed and keep moving when Adler needed me the most.

While we were there we went to the Champlain Valley Fair, went on a rocky boat road, and relaxed.

Thanks A Family! Your the best!

August 2010 - Boston Childrens Museum

2012-02-03T00:50:00.002-05:00

In between Dave's funeral and burial we went to the Children's Museum and to the North End. It was on a Sunday and we had to get out of the house. When I look at the pictures I can see so much sadness in Adler's eyes. A few people have said to me that it was a blessing that Adler was so young when Dave died but the truth is that he misses his Father very much. He noticed Dave's absence and I'm sad that he probably wont have any memories of his Father. This was a day that we were out of the house but I was amazed that I was able to do it. I felt physically ill. I will never forget how horrible it was and is. The pain is physical. I never knew grief could be a physical pain but it is.

September 2010 - Frog Pond

2012-02-03T00:48:00.000-05:00

I had to go into Boston to pick up Adler's birth certificate. We stoped by Boston Common and I let Adler play in the water. It was nice to see Adler play after such a crappy week.

I love Boston Common!

Thankful

2012-02-02T16:07:00.000-05:00

The last 18 months I have learned a lot. I knew I had amazing Family, Friends, and Co -workers but I never realized how generous they were until Dave passed away. I don't think I will ever be able to express my gratitude towards them so if you are reading this and I haven't had a chance to tell you, THANK YOU! I am incredibly blessed to have you in my life and the gestures of kindness you made to Adler and I are more meaningful to me then you will ever know. Big and small, I appreciate them all. You have helped me and my family when I needed help the most.

I have spent the last 18 months feeling like I was in survival mode or on auto pilot. I am trying to get back into some of my old habits...like blogging. I want to update my blog with what we have been up to so you may see some 18 month old events as I try to update my blog. Trying to get back into the swing of things and trying to learn to live one day at a time.

The Burial

2011-09-26T23:10:00.013-05:00

Wadsworth Cemetery is beautiful. Picking out a plot is surreal. I was lucky that we found this one. Dave's grave is framed by trees and a stone wall. I love it. I know that Dave would love it to0. We used to enjoy visiting the old New England cemeteries and now we will be buried in one.

David's burial was like his funeral. Beautiful and Peaceful. It was a sad day. A very sad day. I'm glad that Dave has such a beautiful resting place.

The Funeral

2011-09-26T21:35:00.016-05:00

Dave's Funeral was beautiful. Our Bishop did a wonderful job conducting the service. I spoke as well as my Father-In-Law Tim. I asked Dave's siblings, Vivian, Karl, and Tim to share a story or thought about Dave. Dave's best and life long friend Adam did a Eulogy that captured Dave perfectly. Everyone did a wonderful job speaking. We had a choir sing and a string quartet play as well. At the end of the Funeral I felt so much peace. I know with all my heart that Dave is now living in a better place. As much as it pains me to say that. He is missed more then I could ever describe with words.

The burial was held on the Monday after the funeral. We decided to have a potluck on the lawn outside of the church. It was really great. I never made it to the food table but I was really touched when I heard that someone had made Dave's famous Cowboy Caviar. A dip he always made for parties, he would even bring the recipe to hand out to people. (Thanks Emily) I am grateful for everyone that came and for those that stayed. It was amazing.

I know that Dave would be so overwhelmed with the turn out and the willingness of everyone to be so helpful. I am still amazed at what an amazing support system we have. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

The Wake

2011-08-15T23:30:00.014-05:00

August 27, 2010

Brimfield Fair

2011-07-17T21:43:00.002-05:00

Adler, my friend Ellen and I went to the Brimfield Fair this weekend. I found some good deals and Adler had fun looking at all of the Antiques.

The Brimfield Fair is 3-5 acres of Antique booths. It was a great day and it was fun to get out and have a road trip with my friend. Something we used to do often but have been unable to do in the last year.

Ellen snapped this pic of Adler while we were eating some really good BBQ. Finding good BBQ in New England is rare but this place was great.

I miss blogging so one of these days I will have to catch up.

Someday...

Adler

2011-07-03T22:57:00.001-05:00

Tribute to David Chopelas

2011-03-24T08:53:00.005-05:00

My Friend Ellen interviewed me and wrote this up for our church newsletter.

Dave was born on January 14, 1976 and was raised in Melrose (Lynnfield Ward). He was the youngest of Tim and Margarete’s four kids. He was an Eagle Scout and he loved the Scouting program.

Dave served his mission in Frankfurt, Germany. He moved back to Provo after his mission. Jenn and Dave met through a mutual friend one weekend that Jenn was visiting her friend in Provo. They exchanged addresses (this was pre-email!) and within a month Jenn moved to Utah and she and Dave just clicked. They were friends for a few months and really started dating in January and got engaged that July. They were married on August 28, 1999. They lived in Oklahoma for 7 years and when Dave got a job offer in Boston in 2006 they moved to the Arlington Ward. Dave and Jenn were part of the ward split (since they lived in Woburn) and then in April 2010 they moved back to the Arlington Ward, to a two-family house in Arlington (upstairs from the Aldous family).

Adler was born January 26, 2009 which was amazing for both Jenn and Dave. Dave was so happy to be a dad and said it was really nice having his own child because he didn’t have to give Adler back to anyone.

Jenn describes Dave as funny, nice, caring, very empathetic, a writer and good friend. Dave loved the youth and loved the Primary kids. He was a lifelong Red Sox fan. He loved talking. Jenn says he was always the last one to leave church! Dave loved being Santa Claus at the Ward Christmas party. He was a great husband, a really good guy, and he loved being a dad. He loved Adler. Dave was a very detailed writer and kept lots of journals. He wrote about a lot of the details of his life and documented Adler’s firsts: teeth, steps, etc.

Dave’s sister-in-law and brother own a Thai restaurant (Sawasdee in Danvers) and he loved helping out in the kitchen and even doing dishes. When Jenn and Dave would go to the restaurant he would always want to go through the back door because "he worked there" (while Jenn and Adler went through the front door). He did lots of good advertising for the restaurant; telling everyone about it. He loved the restaurant. Dave also loved fishing and camping. He loved playing basketball on Wednesdays and football on Saturdays (with guys in the ward). Those guys were a special groups of friends for him. He felt the most at home in the Arlington Ward. Last Thanksgiving day at the ward "Turkey Bowl" all the guys dedicated the games to Dave and had shirts printed that said "CHOPS TURKEY BOWL".

The Arlington Ward Campout was one of Dave’s favorite things. Dave was so happy to take Adler to the Campout and the first night Adler slept in the cabin with Jenn and the second night Adler slept in the tent with Dave and they both loved it. Last summer Dave and Jenn went on lots of fun outings with Adler: camping, whale watching, Red Sox game, and the zoo.
Dave was always telling jokes. Jenn remembers being at a BBQ at Ernie and Debbie White’s and one minute she was talking to Dave and then she turned around and he had an audience of kids around him asking him to tell jokes!

Dave passed away on August 23, 2010. He was a really special guy and we all miss him.

Need to update

2011-02-21T01:28:00.001-05:00

I need to update the blog but I am still overwhlmed with everything that has happend in the last 6 months. Maybe I will post soon.

Just a typical day for Adler and Daddy

2011-01-18T21:48:00.005-05:00

Dave made this quick video of Adler over the summer. I like to watch it just because it was an average day. It was life before Dave was gone.

A Christmas Poem

2010-12-21T22:49:00.005-05:00

I was searching through some files on our computer and found this poem. It's fun to find random things that Dave wrote.

Christmas was one of Dave's favorite times of year. He loved to dress up as Santa and was even working on getting his own Santa suit. He loved the reaction he got from the kids and he did such a great job. He always knew the name of every kid.

Before Adler was born we rarely put up Christmas decorations because let's face it, I was the one that always put them up and took them down. Plus, with out kids it just seemed like a lot of work. I just wasn't into it.

Christmas 2008 we decided that we would spend all our extra cash buying the necessary items for the upcoming arrival of our baby boy.

Here is a poem that Dave wrote on Christmas Day, 2008.

How Merry Would Our Christmas Be?

How merry would our Christmas be?

We didn't even set up a Christmas Tree.

Instead we hung a kissing ball.

And a mini stocking on the wall.

How merry when we sent no greetings,

And we didn't attend the Christmas meeting?

A prayer for friends we said instead,

Whilst a Sunday blizzard kept us in bed.

How merry with no gifts for each other,

When we only bought one for my mother?

Thankful, instead, we had enough,

To get our Adler a bunch of stuff.

How merry without Jenn's family near

To celebrate with us this time of year?

In Melrose, instead, we spent the day

Celebrating with my side of the family.

How merry could our Christmas be?

We didn't even set up a Christmas Tree.

Our Christmas was filled with joy and love,

Remembering all our blessings from above.

Book: In Memory of David

2010-11-22T00:31:00.001-05:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Widow

2010-11-21T22:49:00.004-05:00

Everyday I wake up and think to myself...

Everything about being a widow sucks.

There, I said it.

Today

2010-11-12T22:16:00.002-05:00

I just miss him.

"The New Ribbon"

2010-10-05T22:59:00.008-05:00

(Dave had recently decided to use an old type writer to write with. I found this page today while I was cleaning. I think it was him practicing on the type writer)

"The New Ribbon"

by David Chopelas

13 August 2010

I am kneeling on the hardwood floor of the two family house that we are renting, and Adler is sitting next to me taking out Kleenex from the box, strewing them across the floor. Now, he is balancing himself on the back of my legs, on my calves which are facing up.

Now, I am sitting in a chair and Adler is next to me playing with type writer return arm and the roller. He loves handles and knobs. As difficult as it is typing with him playing around with the machine, I would much rather have this type of distraction or malfunction than other there could be. Ah, Adler has returned to the Kleenex on the floor and is proceeding to blow his nose. (Back to the type writer return arm and the roller wheel with the grippy grooved knob.) Being one who is easily distracted (like his father). Adler has now turned his attention to the floor decoration.

What an amazing child. He comes to my side and yearns to be held. I pick him up. We hug. These moments I love. Three pats on the back, a familiar gesture, a warm sign, and I am reaffirmed of his love for me. My love, his love is reaffirmed. Though never forgotten, those reminders of love and these feelings are sought and welcomed.

Today, Adler and I bought some new ribbon. This paper is old, so the next page will be new. Adler wants to go outside. Perhaps we shall go ride a bike.

"Our Little Eagle"

2010-10-03T23:18:00.004-05:00

Our Little Eagle

by David S. Chopelas

26 Nov 2008

We have a little Eagle,

and he is roosting in his nest.

He's our little Eagle

and we think he's the best!

He love's it when we talk to him,

he loves it when he eats,

He loves to let Mom know he's there

when he kicks his little feets.

We love out little Eagle,

Adler is his name.

May the love we have for Adler,

Ever in our hearts remian.

(Adler is Eagle in German)

David Steven Chopelas

2010-10-02T22:46:00.003-05:00

David Steven Chopelas

January 14, 1976 - August 23, 2010

David S. Chopelas, 34, of Arlington, died unexcepctedly on Monday, August 23, 210. He was the husband of Jennifer M. (Hale) Chopelas, with whom he shared eleven years of marriage.

Born in Stoneham, on January 14, 1976, he was the son of Timothy and Magarete (Hildebrand) Chopelas. He was raised and educated in Melrose and was a graduate of Melrose High School, Class of 1994. At the time of his death, he was completing his degree at Northeastern University.

David had most recently been employed as an account executive with A.W. Chesterton of Woburn.

An Eagle Scout, David served a two years mission with his church in Germany. He was a loving husband and an adoring, dedicated father to his son. He was a charitable person, who annually collected gloves for the homeless.

In addition to his wife and parents, he leaves his beloved son Adler of Arlington, his sister Vivian Chopelas of California, his brothers and sisters-in-law, Karl and Elizabeth Chopelas of West Newbury and Timothy and Gee Chopelas of Danvers, his mother- and father-in-law Lana and Rusty Hale of Edmond, OK and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and a loving extended family.

His Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, August 28, 2010 at 3PM in Lynnfield Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 400 Essex St., Lynnfield. Visiting hours are Friday evening from 6-9PM and on Saturday from 1:30-2:30PM, all at the Lynnfield Chapel. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in David's name may be made to the Adler Chopelas Fund, c/o Bank of America, 655 Mass Ave., Arlington, MA 02474.

Updates coming soon

2010-08-04T21:14:00.008-05:00

Summer updates coming soon.

I just need to get all my pictures onto my computer!

These are pics that were sent top me or came from my phone.

Motherhood’s Great Influence

2010-07-06T11:21:00.002-05:00

I found this quote and really liked it...

“Motherhood is the greatest potential influence either for good or ill in human life. The mother’s image is the first that stamps itself on the … young child’s mind. It is her caress that first awakens a sense of security; her kiss, the first realization of affection; her sympathy and tenderness, the first assurance that there is love in the world.”

President David O. McKay (1873–1970), Gospel Ideals (1953), 452.

First Words

2010-07-05T14:50:00.002-05:00

Adler has been "talking" for awhile now. He has been able to say Mama for awhile and he calls Dave, Ba. Not sure why but it is really cute. I love it when he calls for me. Today Dave called me to say that Adler was lying in his crib just singing Mamamamamamama and then Dadadadada. I love it when he sings. He sings before he goes to sleep, especially in the car. Adler understands everything you say to him and follows commands like, Go give this to Daddy.

We have heard him say...

"This" when handing me a book at bed time.
"Over There" while Dave was pushing him in the stroller.
"Grandma" while in the car with his buddy D listening to a song about Grandma .
"Off" when he wants to get up or down.
"Hot" and then he blows on the food
"Deff" when Uncle Jeff is around and my future Sister-In-Law, Alicia claims that he said "Leesha"
"Woof Woof" when we see a Dog.

I can't wait for him to talk more. I would love to hear what is on his mind.

I love that boy!!!

Chop Sticks

2010-06-25T09:12:00.004-05:00

Last night we went to dinner with B-I-L Tim and S-I-L Gee to eat at a Korean BBQ restaurant. I am super picky but I found some chicken teryaki on the menu that was really good. I even tried some of the tofu/seaweed soup. I immediately got rid of the taste with some Diet Coke. I might be one of the pickiest eaters around but my son will eat EVERYTHING!!! He must get that from his Dad.

Adler at everything we put on his plate. He even wanted to use chopsticks to eat his meal. He would stab it and then eat it. I figure that you have to start somewhere.

After dinner he was exhausted and fell asleep in the car. I was even able to transfer him to his crib with no problem. He didn't wake up until 5:22 AM. Yeah!

Evening Walk

2010-06-25T08:42:00.002-05:00

When Adler and I get a chance, we like to walk around the block before we go in for the night. The other night it was so hot that being inside was torture! The one thing I hate about New England is the lack of central heat and air.

I let Adler wear nothing but a onesie because any more clothes and he would have had a heat stroke.

Adler loves to mow the sidewalk.
As we were walking we watched the planes fly by. We live near Logan Airport so they seem to be in abundance. As soon as Adler hears them fly by, he stops and points to them. I love it.
It was a good walk.
We also got to smell some flowers, pet a dog, see a 5 week old baby, and talk to neighbors.

We had a good night.

(the only camera I ever seem to have is my cell phone so the pics aren't great)

New York City, NY

2010-06-18T14:51:00.007-05:00

I love Road Trips, Friends, and Fun.

A few months ago Adler and I went with friends Alicia and Leah for a day trip to New York City. While Alicia spent time on a date, Leah and I decided to have a lazy day in the city.

After we dropped off Alicia I realized that I was almost out of gas. I guess that happens when you drive from Boston to New York. After some bad directions from a taxi cab driver and a lot of laughter we found a gas station in Harlem. I was dying so I used the restroom and had one of the most disgusting experiences I have ever had. Let's just say that I couldn't find the light switch and what I thought was the light switch was something disgusting taped to the wall. (I haven't stopped washing my hands) Anyways, Leah pumped the gas and provided the hand sanitizer and then we were off to find the The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Central Park

We decided to wander the city and get a bite to eat before going to the art museum. We found a hot dog stand and walked through Central Park and ate our lunch. It was a PERFECT spring day. The park was packed and the people watching was fantastic.

We walked through the park.

We watched the boats.

We wandered around the park and saw a few street performers.

Adler got to ride on my shoulders and pull my hair!We found the carousel and I thought it would be so much fun for Adler to do.
I think he liked it at first.
Once we got going I think he felt like this.

He was happy when the ride ended.

We found this tunnel near the carousal. It reminded me of and episode of Law and Order. I could just see a jogger finding a dead body here. So of course I had to take a picture next to it.

We went to the Nike store and they had the World Series Trophy on display. You could stand with it and have your picture taken. I might be a Red Sox fan but hey, that is the WS Trophy!

We found a great place to eat dinner. This is one of the only pics we took there.

The Met

After dinner we went to The Met. I have always wanted to go. We saw a lot of great paintings and an exhibit on Tutankhmun's Funeral. It was incredible.

Adler was learning to walk up and down stairs and he couldn't get enough of all the stairs outside The Met.

He had a blast! We walked up and down the stairs outside the building.

Then he found some more stairs! We went up and down these at least twice.
I got some great Art books for my collection and had blast with Adler, Leah, and Alicia. For dinner we traveled WAY out of our way to eat at Arbys (long story) and then went home.

I can't wait for my next trip to NYC!

Good Things to Come

2010-06-17T08:48:00.000-05:00

It has been a tough week. What a great reminder to hang in there.

The Bike Path

2010-06-02T09:37:00.004-05:00

We recently moved and I love our new area. Lots of parks, friendly neighbors, and the bike path. Adler and I decided to show Uncle Jeff the bike path and one of our favorite parks when we he was visiting us in May.

Here are a few pictures form the trip.

Until We Meet Again

2010-05-26T09:28:00.000-05:00

Friends

2010-05-14T09:30:00.003-05:00

Adler LOVES these two kids. Adler and D love to give each other hugs and it is so cute I can't stand it.
They live below us and every time we come home Adler runs to their door. Ellen snapped these photo's at Jeff's Birthday and they are to cute not to post. I am so happy that Adler has so much fun with his friends.

"shot heard round the world."

2010-05-03T10:10:00.013-05:00

In the predawn light of April 19, the beating drums and peeling bells summoned between 50 and 70 militiamen to the town green at Lexington. As they lined up in battle formation the distant sound of marching feet and shouted orders alerted them of the Redcoats' approach. Soon the British column emerged through the morning fog and the confrontation that would launch a nation began.

Colonist running onto the battle green.
Colonist lined up and ready to fight.
The British commanders.
British troops lining up on the battle green.

The fighting breaks out and the Colonist retreat.

The British troops follow the Colonist.
The British troops are called back and get back into formation.
The women and children tend to the dead and wounded.
The British troops are back in formation.
They fire another shot.
Then they march on to Concord.

I found an eye witness account online at this website.

"Lay down your arms, you damned rebels."

Twenty-three-year-old Sylvanus Wood was one of the Lexington militia who answered the call that spring morning. Several years after the event he committed his recollection to paper in an affidavit sworn before a Justice of the Peace which was first published in 1858:

"I, Sylvanus Wood, of Woburn, in the county of Middlesex, and commonwealth of Massachusetts, aged seventy-four years, do testify and say that on the morning of the 19th of April, 1775, I was an inhabitant of Woburn, living with Deacon Obadiah Kendall; that about an hour before the break of day on said morning, I heard the Lexington bell ring, and fearing there was difficulty there, I immediately arose, took my gun and, with Robert Douglass, went in haste to Lexington, which was about three miles distant.

When I arrived there, I inquired of Captain Parker, the commander of the Lexington company, what was the news. Parker told me he did not know what to believe, for a man had come up about half an hour before and informed him that the British troops were not on the road. But while we were talking, a messenger came up and told the captain that the British troops were within half a mile. Parker immediately turned to his drummer, William Diman, and ordered him to beat to arms, which was done. Captain Parker then asked me if I would parade with his company. I told him I would. Parker then asked me if the young man with me would parade. I spoke to Douglass, and he said he would follow the captain and me.

By this time many of the company had gathered around the captain at the hearing of the drum, where we stood, which was about half way between the meetinghouse and Buckman's tavern. Parker says to his men, 'Every man of you, who is equipped, follow me; and those of you who are not equipped, go into the meeting-house and furnish yourselves from the magazine, and immediately join the company.' Parker led those of us who were equipped to the north end of Lexington Common, near the Bedford Road, and formed us in single file. I was stationed about in the centre of the company. While we were standing, I left my place and went from one end of the company to the other and counted every man who was paraded, and the whole number was thirty-eight, and no more.

Just as I had finished and got back to my place, I perceived the British troops had arrived on the spot between the meeting-house and Bucknian's, near where Captain Parker stood when he first led off his men. The British troops immediately wheeled so as to cut off those who had gone into the meeting-house. The British troops approached us rapidly in platoons, with a general officer on horseback at their head. The officer came up to within about two rods of the centre of the company, where I stood, the first platoon being about three rods distant. They there halted. The officer then swung his sword, and said, "Lay down your arms, you damned rebels, or you are all dead men. Fire!" Some guns were fired by the British at us from the first platoon, but no person was killed or hurt, being probably charged only with powder.

Just at this time, Captain Parker ordered every man to take care of himself. The company immediately dispersed; and while the company was dispersing and leaping over the wall, the second platoon of the British fired and killed some of our men. There was not a gun fired by anv of Captain Parker's company, within my knowledge. I was so situated that I must have known it, had any thing of the kind taken place before a total dispersion of our company. I have been intimately acquainted with the inhabitants of Lexington, and particularly with those of Captain Parker's company, and, with one exception, I have never heard any of them say or pretend that there was any firing at the British from Parker's company, or any individual in it until within a year or two. One member of the company told me, many years since, that, after Parker's company had dispersed, and he was at some distance, he gave them 'the guts of his gun.'"

References: Commager, Henry Steele, Morris Richard B. The Spirit of 'Seventy-Six vol I (1958); Fischer, David, Paul Revere's Ride (1994).

How To Cite This Article: "Battle at Lexington Green, 1775," EyeWitness to History, www.eyewitnesstohistory.com (2001).

The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere

2010-05-03T09:31:00.007-05:00

Lexington, MA re-enacts The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere every year. I love it! I am such a history nerd. I think there is something very cool about getting to see Paul Revere ride by on his horse shouting, "The redcoats are coming!" The horse gets spooked by flashing lights so we didn't get a photo of Paul Revere or William Dawes. Causing a stampede seemed like a bad idea.

On the evening of April 18, 1775, Paul Revere was sent for by Dr. Joseph Warren and instructed to ride to Lexington, Massachusetts, to warn Samuel Adams and John Hancock that British troops were marching to arrest them. After being rowed across the Charles River to Charlestown by two associates, Paul Revere borrowed a horse from his friend Deacon John Larkin. While in Charlestown, he verified that the local "Sons of Liberty" committee had seen his pre-arranged signals. (Two lanterns had been hung briefly in the bell-tower of Christ Church in Boston, indicating that troops would row "by sea" across the Charles River to Cambridge, rather than marching "by land" out Boston Neck. Revere had arranged for these signals the previous weekend, as he was afraid that he might be prevented from leaving Boston).

On the way to Lexington, Revere "alarmed" the country-side, stopping at each house, and arrived in Lexington about midnight. As he approached the house where Adams and Hancock were staying, a sentry asked that he not make so much noise. "Noise!" cried Revere, "You'll have noise enough before long. The regulars are coming out!" After delivering his message, Revere was joined by a second rider, William Dawes, who had been sent on the same errand by a different route. Deciding on their own to continue on to Concord, Massachusetts, where weapons and supplies were hidden, Revere and Dawes were joined by a third rider, Dr. Samuel Prescott. Soon after, all three were arrested by a British patrol. Prescott escaped almost immediately, and Dawes soon after. Revere was held for some time and then released. Left without a horse, Revere returned to Lexington in time to witness part of the battle on the Lexington Green.

Jeff's Birthday

2010-05-03T08:28:00.002-05:00

While Jeff was in town we celebrated his birthday!!! My friend Alicia offered her home and we had an awesome dinner and a fabulous cake. Can you believe she made that? It was awesome and tasted like dessert from Olive Garden.

We had so much fun! We hung out and played guitar hero. I killed my person before the song even started. I don't think I have a future as a Rock Star.

Adler and D had fun playing with the ceiling fan remote and all the fun toys Alicia provided. At the end of the night they were happy to lie on the couch with a beverage and relax. Aren't they cute?

Hartwell Tavern

2010-04-23T09:38:00.014-05:00

Hartwell Tavern

We went to Minute Man National Park and took a tour of Hartwell Tavern. The weather wasn't great so the crowds were small. It was also late in the afternoon so I think we missed a lot of the action. We still had a great time and wondered around the property.

Jeff

After touring the house and learning the diffrence between a Tavern and an Inn, (Jeff's favorite part!) we went to the back yard and found a little colonial girl building a home for fairies. Adler checked it out and had a chat with the girl.

We walked around, Adler mostly ran in the opposite direction, and we checked out the barn, animal pen, and the clearing on the side of the house.

Adler loves his Uncle Jeff. He even tries to say Jeff. It isn't clear, but we know what he is trying to say!

The grass was wet but it didn't stop Adler from rolling around in it and having fun. It was nice to take a moment and take in our surroundings.

I love his smile and when he giggles. I can't resist it!
Mama and Adler.
Jeff, Dave, and Adler.
I love the stone walls. Don't know why but I do!
Adler and his Da.

Hartwell Tavern is a restored 18th century home and tavern. It sits on a beautifully restored section of the actual "Battle Road." It was here at the time of the battle on April 19, 1775 and is what we call a witness house.

It was built 1732-1733. When Ephraim and Elizabeth Hartwell got married, Ephraim's father Samuel gave them a new house surrounded by 18 acres of land, as well as 12 other acres (30 acres total). The couple quickly began raising a family. In 1756, when the Hartwells had 9 children living in the house, Ephraim applied for and received a license to open part of their home as an inn. He and his family continued to do so until the 1780's.

What connection does this tavern have with April 19, 1775?

(1) The tavern was on the main road, the "Bay Road," running from Boston through western Massachusetts out to Crown Point, N.Y. This was the road that the British troops used on April 19. The soldiers passed by the tavern on their way to Concord, and again on their way back to Boston. There are no records or stories about soldiers entering the tavern for any reason.

(2) Three of Ephraim and Elizabeth Hartwell's sons were in the Lincoln Minute Man Company (Capt. William Smith's Co.) that fought at the NorthBridge and on the battleroad on April 19: Samuel and John were both sergeants, and Isaac was a private. All three went on to later military service in the RevolutionaryWar.

(3) The other connections with April 19th are based on stories told by Mary Hartwell. These Hartwell legends vary in detail, having been remembered many years after 1775. One legend goes like this:

On the night of April 18th, an advance guard of British soldiers captured Paul Revere and William Dawes just down the road from the tavern. Dr. Samuel Prescott of Concord, who was riding with them, escaped by leaping his horse over a stone wall and fleeing through pasture and swamp. He emerged at the Hartwell Tavern. Prescott awakened old Ephraim and told him that the British regulars on the march. Ephraim sent his black slave Violet down the road to awaken Samuel Hartwell next door. Mary then took over and relayed the message to Captain William Smith, commanding officer of the Lincoln Minute Men. Thus the Lincoln Minute Men were warned in time, and arrived at the NorthBridge before the British soldiers got there.

Big Boy

2010-04-11T21:20:00.008-05:00

The kids at church like to play in the yard after the service is over. I can't believe that Adler is now able to run around with the big kids. He is such a Big Boy!

Photo's are courtesy of EP Photography.

Is it just me or does that island look like it's tipping???

2010-04-02T12:03:00.002-05:00

Rep. Hank Johnson Worries Guam Might Capsize - AOL News

And this is a man that just made a decision about my health care???

Yikes!!!

Will we ever be healthy again???

2010-03-31T00:06:00.006-05:00

This year we ushered in the New Year with a sick baby. Shortly there after Dave and I got sick. Ever since then one of us has been sick with something. You name it, we caught it. Last week I caught strep throat and this week Dave has bronchitis.

Adler started coughing so I took him to the Dr this morning. Luckily she gave him the all clear and said he didn't catch anything.

With Spring around the corner I am hoping that we will get healthy and our immune systems will be strong.

The Boys

2010-03-23T18:44:00.004-05:00

Blake and Adler

Mason, Adler, Zack, and Blake

Me and Blake

Adler and I visited our BFF's while we were back in Edmond. We went for lunch at Teds and spent the day hanging out. It was awesome!!! Zack and Mason showed me their new trampoline and all of their trails. They even showed me how to climb a tree. Adler got to sit on a tractor and Janna and I spent as much time as we could catching up. I even took a power nap on the couch. We miss them so much and wish we could spend more time with them. We had a great day together and I am looking forward to the next time we see them.

The Wedding

2010-03-17T19:39:00.004-05:00

This weekend Adler and I went to Oklahoma for my cousin's wedding.

The wedding was awesome.

Lot's of Dancing and Celebrating.

Congratulations C and D!

Help

2010-02-22T19:05:00.002-05:00

Adler loves to help me clean.

Sometimes he makes things more interesting.

He was laughing until I took the picture.

He actually did this a few more times.

I couldn't stop laughing.

Snow

2010-02-17T23:39:00.003-05:00

It snowed yesterday!

Adler loves watching the snow fall and tries to catch it with his hand.

He even tried to catch snowflakes with his tongue!

It was so stinkin cute.

Sounds Tasty

2010-02-15T12:27:00.001-05:00

My sister Lindsay LOVES Hot Dogs.

I wonder if she has ever tried one of these.

Happy Birthday Dad!

2010-02-11T00:53:00.002-05:00

This monkey wants to say HaPpY BiRtHdAy!

Thanks for being such a great Dad.

We love you and miss you.

Hope you have a great Birthday!!

Mr. Independent

2010-02-10T23:56:00.002-05:00

Today I put Adler down and before I could get all of my bags out of the car he took off. He is getting more and more independent. It is so much fun to watch him but it can be scary too. He likes to walk up to our door now. It takes a bit longer and every now and then I have to pick him up and run up a flight of stairs but as soon as we reach our floor he goes to our door and helps me open it. It is one of my favorite parts of the day.

This blog needs an update.

2010-02-04T23:45:00.002-05:00

My blog needs some work. One of these days I will get to it.

Until then here is one of my favorite pictures of Dave and Adler.

My Miracle Baby

2010-01-26T22:25:00.022-05:00

I can't believe that Adler is ONE! This last year has been incredible. I am so thankful to have him in my life. Adler has such a sweet spirit and is so loving. It took so long for him to get here but he was worth the wait.

I will never be able to describe the joy he has brought to Dave and I.

We love you, Adler.

A year of Adler

2010-01-26T22:25:00.019-05:00

January 2009

February 2009

March 2009

April 2009

May 2009

June 2009

July 2009

August 2009

September 2009

October 2009

November 2009

December 2009

Happy Birthday Adler!!!

2010-01-26T22:23:00.004-05:00

Today was Adler's FIRST BIRTHDAY!!! Wow! It blows my mind!

I was supposed to work but found out that the training I was supposed to do was cancelled. I called our friends for a last minute play group and we met N and W at Chucky Cheese.

Adler had an absolute blast. He LoVeS kids and had so much fun being one of the BIG kids.

VOTE

2010-01-17T02:53:00.002-05:00

Don't forget to vote for SCOTT BROWN on Tuesday!!!

The Christmas Spirit

2009-12-23T09:56:00.000-05:00

The Christmas Spirit

Snow

2009-12-21T10:27:00.001-05:00

The view outside Adler's window

I am already looking forward to warm weather again.

Smoking Ban in Edmond

2009-12-15T08:43:00.003-05:00

My Mom, Lana, and niece Lauren were on TV last night! Here is the link to the video.

A new ordinance will ban smoking within 50 feet of a city park playground or within the fenced portion of city athletic complexes in Edmond.

Parents are excited about the new ordinance because they don't want their children playing with cigarette butts littering the ground.

By Colleen Chen, NEWS 9

EDMOND, Oklahoma -- Cigarette butts are currently a common sight around playgrounds and parks in Edmond, but leaders are hoping a newly passed ordinance will change that.
Edmond city council members passed an ordinance prohibiting smoking within 50 feet of a city park playground or within the fenced portion of city athletic complexes.
"This is going to provide for a healthier and cleaner environment for our city's children," said Edmond Parks Director Jim Bowlin.

'No Smoking' signs are being paid for by grant money and park employees will start installing them as soon as possible.

The ordinance goes into effect in 30 days. Violating the ordinance is a misdemeanor and the fine can go up to $200.

See a full list of city parks and recreational areas.

Lana Hale is thrilled that council members approved the ordinance.

"I have a two year old granddaughter who loves to play at the park, but when she sees cigarette butts at the playground she is instantly attracted to them. That's the last thing I want. Hopefully, this will change the litter around our parks," Hale said.

The ordinance does not apply to Kickingbird Golf Course.

Mommy's Helper

2009-12-12T01:13:00.002-05:00

Adler loves to help me put groceries away. Here he was in charge of putting away the jello. He is now able to open the fridge on his own. The other day he got into the whipped cream and got it all over his pants and the floor just as we were walking out the door.

Here comes Santa Clause...

2009-12-07T09:39:00.003-05:00

We were invited to join our friends to go caroling on Sunday. Dave couldn't make it so Santa took his place. We had a lot of fun! Here are some pictures of us visiting the R Family. One of the things I love the most about living in New England are our friends.

We have wonderful friends.

Blake

2009-12-05T22:16:00.002-05:00

Adler's new friend has entered the world!

Welcome Blake!

A new spin on the Nativity

2009-11-25T20:20:00.002-05:00

Today my sister Stephanie sent me this email. I thought it was too funny and cute so I am sharing it with you!

Today I was putting some Christmas decorations out and the girls were desperate to play with my very nice nativity set. To distract them I pulled out their own Little People nativity set that I bought them after Christmas last year. The girls have been having a great time playing with it. After playing with the set for a while Haley comes up to me with the baby Jesus in hand and says,"Mommy, I'm not going to call him baby Jesus anymore. I'm going to call him baby Adler."

I love my niece's!

Cartoon

2009-11-20T12:52:00.000-05:00

Mobile Adler

2009-11-16T00:39:00.003-05:00

Adler has been working hard at trying to be more mobile. This is a grainy video but you can see what he has been up too.

Family Pictures

2009-11-09T13:38:00.002-05:00

We took some Family pictures at the Old North Bridge in Concord, MA. Our photographer captured some great shots. I have a disc of 238 pictures that I am still going through. Here are just a few from the shoot.

Apple Picking

2009-10-16T19:21:00.009-05:00

I never realized that apple picking was an event until I moved to New England. Up here it is a fall favorite that is not to be missed. This year we went to our favorite place, Honey Pot Hill Orchards and met up with some friends. This place has all kinds of fun stuff to do and this year it was especially fun to see Adler react to everything. Here are some of the things we did.

Our first stop was at the Pumpkin Patch.

We met up with Adler's favorite buddy and had a photo session. I am pretty sure that these places exist just so parents can get fall photos of their kids.

These two had so much fun together. I have even posted a video of them just being cute as we snapped tons of pictures and video.

Once the photo shoot was over we let Adler pick out his first pumpkin.
After that we decided to get some donuts and carmel apples.
We also stopped by the petting zoo. No, we did not pet anything!

We hit the hayride after that and Adler had a donut! He LOVED it!

What is this face he is making? It cracks me up.

The Hayride dropped us off at an orchard that had pears and apples so we picked both.

Dave made an apple handle for Adler so it was easy for him to hold the apple and gnaw at it.

We all had a great time but towards the end Adler was hungry and we were all ready to go. We fed him in the parking lot and then headed home.

It was a GREAT day.

Bunker Hill

2009-10-10T01:26:00.009-05:00

A few weeks ago I decided to take a walk with Adler up to Bunker Hill. The weather was great and it was so nice to be outside. We laid on the grass, took in the view of Boston, toured the museum (quickly!), and did some people watching.

Here are a few pictures from our outing.

Standing Tall

2009-10-10T01:01:00.006-05:00

This is where the trouble started.

Adler saw the DVR and couldn't resist it.

I saw him making his move and I couldn't believe it! I grabbed the camera just as he stood up for the first time on his own.

I think he was pretty proud of him self as well. Since then he has been happily changing the channel. Our pillow barricade has been conquered. We now have to move on to more practical baby proofing measures.

Here are a few more pictures of him standing in the crib.

Here is a video of him standing and playing in the crib!

Perfect day for a Clambake

2009-09-20T01:19:00.004-05:00

CLAMBAKE AT CRANES BEACH

THE ARLINGTON WARD HAD THERE CLAMBAKE TODAY. EVEN THOUGH WE ARE ALUMNI WE DECIDED TO GO. WE ALWAYS LOVE A CHANCE TO MEET UP WITH OUR OLD FRIENDS. IT WAS HELD AT CRANES BEACH AND ON THE WAY WE SAW 4 CRANES. I HAD NEVER SEEN A CRANE BEFORE SO I WAS EXCITED. THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME WE WENT AND IT WASN'T FREEZING OR RAINY. THE WEATHER WAS PERFECT

THE WATER WAS BEAUTIFUL.

WE SAT DOWN ON OUR BLANKET WITH JODI AND D.

ADLER LOVES D!

IF SHE IS NEAR, ADLER GETS EXCITED AND WANTS HER ATTENTION.

WE HAD SOME LUNCH AND FOUND OUT THAT ADLER LOVES CORN!

NO, WE DIDN'T EAT CLAMS OR LOBSTER. WE STUCK TO HAMBURGERS AND HOT DOGS.

AFTER LUNCH I CAUGHT UP WITH SOME FRIENDS THAT I DON'T GET TO SEE OFTEN ENOUGH.

DAVE WAS PLAYING FOOTBALL SO ADLER AND I HEADED BACK TO THE BEACH.

IT WAS VERY WINDY BUT THE WEATHER WAS GREAT AND THERE WASN'T A CLOUD IN THE SKY.

(EXCEPT FOR THE ONES IN THIS PICTURE!)

I SAT ADLER DOWN IN THE SAND AND I TOOK A MILLION PICTURES. IT WAS FUN WATCHING HIM PLAY IN THE SAND.

AT THIS POINT HE WAS STILL TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT IT WAS. HE LOOKED SO CONFUSED! IT WAS HILARIOUS.
HE EVENTUALLY DECIDED THAT HE LOVES IT.

WE PLAYED WITH MORE FRIENDS AND MET SOME NEW ONES.
AROUND 5:00 WE HEADED HOME. WE TOOK 1A AND ENJOYED THE NEW ENGLAND COUNTRY SIDE. IT WAS SUCH A GREAT DAY.

Beach Day

2009-09-20T00:22:00.008-05:00

Adler's FIRST beach day!

Adler loved putting his feet in the sand.

So did I.

Once the blanket was down and the umbrella was up, Adler tried to crawl all over the place.

After hanging out at our spot we decided to check out the water.

Long Beach Gloucester, Massachusetts

The water up here is FREEZING cold but Adler didn't seem to mind.
To see his reaction play the video below.

After playing in the water we went back to our spot to relax.

We had fun playing with Adler. Dave was making him laugh so I tried to capture it.

I now realize that I can't shoot film at this angle. Just tilt your head to watch the video.

We also played on the beach. We had a fun family day and created some wonderful memories

30

2009-09-20T00:10:00.004-05:00

I'M THIRTY!

In June I had my 30th birthday. Dave hosted a party for me at Sawasdee. It was a ton of fun to celebrate with a few friends at dinner. The food was delicious and the company was great! I can't say that I was excited about this birthday, but it turned out just fine.

Rascal Flatts

2009-09-19T23:14:00.004-05:00

RASCAL FLATTS

The concert was outdoors and it rained the entire day leaving my hair a frizzy disaster.

We were lucky that the rain stopped just in time for the concert.

WE HAD THE BEST SEATS!

My friend Alicia and I went to the Rascal Flatts concert last week and it was AMAZING!!!! I love their music and we had a great time. We had excellent seats. Alicia's birthday was the next day and I think she picked a perfect way to kick of her thirties!

I was going to post a video clip but you can hear me singing along so I am not going to post it. You will just have to trust me that the concert was awesome!.

Laughing Baby

2009-09-11T19:09:00.004-05:00

Tonight after Adler's bath Dave was playing with Adler and he was laughing so hard. I had to grab the camera and record a bit of it.

Sprained Twice

2009-09-08T00:11:00.004-05:00

My roommate once said that the most random things happen to Dave.

That was ten years ago and I have to admit that she was right. A few months ago Dave woke up and couldn't walk. He some how maneged to sprain both of his ankles. I have never heard of such a thing. He ended up with ankle braces and a prescription for physical therapy. He is better now but I am just waiting to see what will happen next.

Gloucester House with the Germans

2009-09-07T23:51:00.004-05:00

Gloucester HouseLOBSTER BEFORE
LOBSTER AFTER
We were excited to be invited to the Gloucester House to meet with the Germans once again. These are some of the people that Dave works with and they were in town for some training. They spent the day sight seeing and ended the day with a traditional New England meal, LOBST-AH. It is always fun to meet new people and say hello to old friends. Adler was invited to come along and Dave loved introducing him to everyone. Most of the evening was in German so I didn't catch everything but Dave did a good job translating for me.

We had a laugh when I requested chicken instead of lobster and Dave ordered the steak. I think the owner thought I was crazy to give up a chance to eat a lobster dinner but if you know me then you know I refuse to eat anything that has come out of a body of water.

4th of July 2009

2009-09-07T22:34:00.006-05:00

OMI AND OPA'S BBQ

BOSTON POPS AND FIREWORKS ON THE CHARLES RIVER

DANVERS FIREWORKS

We had a great time on the 4th. We stopped by my in-laws for a BBQ and then headed out for our 4th of July tradition, saving seats with Ellen. Ever since we moved to Boston we have helped save seats on the Cambridge side of the Charles River. We have a blast doing it and since Ellen works for MIT we had great parking this year! This was the first year we didn't get right up on the railing next to the water but we were close enough. We had fun socializing with all of our friends. The Boston Pops sounded great and this year they had Neil Diamond. It was fun to hear him live singing Sweet Caroline in Boston. (If you are a Red Sox fan you can understand the significance of hearing Neil Diamond live!) The loud noise from the fireworks didn't scare Adler but towards the end he was getting tired and was ready to go home.

The next day we went to the Danvers fireworks with Tim and Gee. They put on a great show. There were a few glitches but we had a fun time. After they were done we raced to the car and went to PF Changs.

Fourth of July is by far my favorite holiday and experiencing it in Boston is the best!

TEN

2009-08-28T20:38:00.004-05:00

On August 28, 2009 we celebrated TEN YEARS of Wedded Bliss!

We had a relaxed night of just hanging out with Adler at the Paul Blart Mall (Burlington) and then eating at our favorite restaurant, the Border Cafe. It was a fun time and we were grateful to have Adler there to spend it with us.

Happy Friday!

2009-08-21T11:48:00.000-05:00

Dave's Arm

2009-08-12T08:52:00.004-05:00

Last night Dave decided to ride his bike home from work. I called to see where he was and he said well, "I have had another Big Adventure!"

If you know Dave then you know this could mean anything. What I wasn't expecting him to say was that he had just been shot in the arm with a BB Gun.

Dave said that he saw some kids driving towards him and then the next thing he knew he had been shot in the arm. I am just glad it was his arm and not his eye.

Who is out there?

2009-07-31T10:29:00.002-05:00

I haven't done this in a while but I love to know who is checking out the blog. If you stop by please say Hi and leave your location. I am curious to know how far reaching this blog is.

Six Month Stats

2009-07-28T10:19:00.002-05:00

Adler had his 6 month appointment yesterday. He weighs 17 lbs. 5.5 oz. Here are his percentiles...

Weight - 48% Height - 71% Head - 20%

We normally dress him in clothes but he just had his shots in this pic. You can see the band aids on his legs. Poor kid.

I want more food!

2009-07-27T08:19:00.003-05:00

Adler LOVES food! He recently started eating solids and he loves them! He has had Rice Cereal, Carrots, Green Beans, Peas, Butternut Squash and Squash. And this morning he had bananas for the first time.

Last night we tried Pears and he couldn't get enough. It is by far his favorite food so far. He ate all of it and when there was no more he freaked out and started crying. His reaction was so funny that I had to snap these pictures. Adler is such a great baby so when he does cry I still think it's cute.

Going Home

2009-07-10T12:24:00.002-05:00

Adler and I are headed home for a long weekend. Here are some of the faces we hope to see!

Adler and Nora

2009-07-08T15:24:00.002-05:00

On Monday night we went to eat dinner with our friends Erica and Josh. They have the cutest little girl named Nora. While we waited for the chicken to cook on the grill, Nora pulled out her dress up box and started playing with Adler. This was one of the looks that Nora styled him in. It was so cute! Thanks for a fun night R family!

10 Years ago...

2009-07-08T09:23:00.002-05:00

Ten years ago this week we got engaged! This photo was taken at my Grandmothers house when we told her we were engaged. I can't believe we have been married for almost ten years!

Bad Blogger

2009-07-06T10:29:00.002-05:00

I need to do some blogging. I have a ton of stuff to blog but I am having computer problems so you will just have to wait! Here is Adler on the 4th. Thanks EP!

What is Adler staring at?

2009-06-26T12:46:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I was in charge of decorations for enrichment. Part of the center piece was a group of balloons. I went to I Party and bought 2 dozen balloons. After popping three balloons and watching 3 more fly away, I managed to get all of the balloons in the car. I picked up Dave from work and then we went to pick up Adler from Omi and Opa's house.

Adler was asleep in his car seat when we arrived so we put him in the car and Dave sat in the back to keep the balloons out of his face. One popped on the way to the church but Adler didn't flinch. We finally arrived at the church and I got all of the balloons out of the car. Trust me, it was not easy! As we waited for the key to the building We took turns holding the balloons when I decided to tie them to the car.

Dave put Adler in the grass and he sat up on his own for the first time!! Of course we had to take pictures of this momentous occasion so as we stood around taking pictures I noticed Adler staring at something. I never bothered look at what he was staring at because he is always staring at something new, but if I had I would have noticed my centerpiece floating away into the clouds.

There was nothing I could do so I just looked at Dave and said, "Well, at this point all you can do is laugh."

All Adler, All the Time

2009-06-24T12:31:00.003-05:00

Yes, more Adler pictures! (Thanks Big Red EP!) I haven't blogged in awhile so this is just a quick post. One of these days I will post about what we have been doing lately but my computer is having problems so you will just have to wait.

Shots of Adler

2009-06-08T20:06:00.005-05:00

The Famous BIG RED EP took these shots of Adler on Sunday night.

Thanks, Ellen!

Martha's Vineyard

2009-05-31T22:58:00.006-05:00

My family was in town last week and on Tuesday we took a trip to Martha's Vineyard. We took the ferry from Woods Hole to Tisbury. We had lunch and took the bus to Edgartown. The island was full of beautiful homes and the lighthouse in Edgartown was fun to see. The beach next to the light house had tons of great sea shells. Something you never see when you are just walking along the beach. We didn't have time to see the entire island, it was much bigger then we originally thought it was. I think we all had a great time and made it back in time to go to Sawasdee for dinner.

Pollen

2009-05-31T22:54:00.001-05:00

See how this bee is covered in pollen? That is how I have felt all week and it is KILLING me!

Adler

2009-05-31T01:07:00.000-05:00

I just can't get enough of this kid.

Adler's first Easter

2009-05-24T23:58:00.004-05:00

Adler on Easter Morning.

Adler and his basket.

Adler and Opa.

Doting Grandparents.Opa, Adler, and Omi.Me and Adler.
Cousins Natalie, Beckham, Owen, Oliver, and Adler. Getting Ready for the Egg Hunt.Dave helped Adler find some eggs .
There is one!Pick it up!

Adler got it!
Good Job Adler!

I wanted to post these pictures months ago but now I have a free moment so here they are.

We spent Easter at church and then we went to my In-Laws for dinner.

I decide to do an Easter Egg Hunt for the kids and they loved it. What's Easter with out an egg hunt? My nephew Owen cracked me up. When he got out of the car I told him the Easter Bunny had brought them some eggs and he screamed, "Oliver, we are having an Easter egg hunt! " It was so funny to see how excited he got.

I remember being a kid and having the egg hunt at my grandparents house. The weather was always a lot warmer then it was this year but it was a lot of fun. I want Adler to have those types of memories too.

Feed me!

2009-05-21T11:08:00.002-05:00

Adler was being fussy and I couldn't figure out why until I looked at the clock and realized it was lunch time. He wouldn't let go of my hair and it was cracking me up. I just had to take a picture.

Once he let go I made him a bottle and he became a much happier baby.

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T01:49:00.003-05:00

Today we were invited to my friend Ellen's home for a special Mother's Day lunch. It was so great! She made a great meal and we had a lot of fun talking and hanging out. Here are a few pictures she snapped while we were there. I absolutely love these pictures! It is the best gift.

The only boy...

2009-05-06T22:41:00.003-05:00

Adler and Haley

I ran to take a shower while my sister Stephanie watched Adler. Stephanie turned her back for a moment and Haley made her move. She gave him bunny ears and a wand. After that she surrounded him with her stuffed animals. Haley loves Adler so much! She couldn't wait to play with her "boy cousin." Adler was a good sport and just went with it. I can't wait to see Adler playing with his cousins once he is older.

Ride for Research

2009-04-29T23:58:00.004-05:00

Last year I had an opportunity to raise money for the Brain Tumor Society and this year Dave is joining me. We have signed up to ride with Patton's Army. Dave and I are dedicating our 25 mile bike ride to the memory of Sarah Jackson.

I have reached my fundraising goal but Dave is still looking for Sponsors. Please click here to donate to help raise money for such a great cause!

Cousin Pictures!

2009-04-29T23:17:00.006-05:00

When we went to Oklahoma in March my Dad asked me and my sister Stephanie to get some pictures of our kids taken together. We went to Target and I love the results. Adler's cousins, Haley and Lauren, love showering him with kisses. I am glad we were able to get a few shots of them. Are these kids cute or what??

Adler at Work

2009-04-27T14:37:00.005-05:00

Adler has been great at work. He has a swing and as of this week he got his gift from Aunt Lindsay, a Wiggle Worm! (Thanks to Uncle Jeff for mailing it out!)

While I work Adler squeals, laughs, and coos with excitement while playing with this new toy. It also makes a great place for him to sleep. He is so good that people have been calling him the worlds quietest baby. I don't know about that but I am thankful for the opportunity to bring him to work.

TEA Party

2009-04-15T22:40:00.004-05:00

Adler and I went to a TEA Party today after work. Several hundred TEA Parties were held across the country today. This one was held at Christopher Columbus Park, right next to the Boston Harbor. You couldn't have asked for a better place to have one. We had a lot of fun and I got a chance to meet Michael Graham. I listen to him on 96.9 when I am in the office.

If you want to know more about it you can click here.