Winter Wonder Land

Last weekend we received about 12" of snow between Friday at noon and Saturday afternoon. It came down really fast and accumulated even faster. I can't tell you how excited I was since we had bought a new snow blower in the fall and hadn't really had the chance to use it.

Since Ryan had never been sledding before he and I ventured out on Friday night. There is a nice hill in front of Susan's school and when we got there, there was virtually no one there! We had such a good time. He was so brave and I was so proud of him. He and I went down a couple of times together and then he wanted to try on his own. I was so nervous, but I helped him in the sled, let go, and watched as he flew down the hill. He crashed at the bottom and I waited to hear him cry but he stood up, grabbed the sled, and started back up the hill. It was so cool. I think I marched up that hill a good fifteen times and I really felt it the next day. It was worth every ache and pain. I tell you, letting go of that sled made me feel like I was letting go of my little boy. I'm a sentimental person so that choked me up pretty good.

Saturday we didn't do much. The typical "snowed in" stuff. We did have a birthday party to go to but it was next door so it was no big deal to go out. However I did use the snow blower for the second time and even let the neighbors use it. I was glad to get my money's worth out of it. We all hung out inside. It was nice to spend time together. We don't get to do it often enough.

Sunday Ryan and I went sledding again. However we didn't get to the hill until about 3:00 and the place was packed. So packed it was dangerous. Ryan and I went to an area where there weren't as many kids but I was still nervous. Ryan and I got into a snowball fight and decided we wanted to go home and make a snowman. I had never had the chance to do that with Ryan either so I was really excited to do so. As you can see, he didn't turn out too bad.




Monday the temperature really started to climb and by the time we got home from work "Frosty" was in pretty bad shape. Ryan wondered if we could put a hat on him and "bring him back to life" so we had to explain to him that we couldn't do that. It just broke my heart. We didn't get to enjoy him for very long.

We get to leave for Florida this Saturday to visit Doc. and Toni (Susan's parents). We'll be there for a week and are really looking forward to it. I am sure we'll have plenty of pictures to share after the trip. We haven't seen them since before Thanksgiving. We can't wait to see you both!

My Grandma Toshi continues to battle in the hospital and it sounds like she'll be out soon. I wish I had the time to go up and visit for the day. Maybe after I get back from vacation. Thank you for the updates Mom and Aunt Kathy. We all appreciate knowing how she is.

Jean keep hanging in there. We think of you daily.

Well that's about it. Short and sweet. Hope everyone is doing well.

Love,
The Green's

To my good friend .... Mr. Malone

Hello everyone.

So .... it's been awhile and my good friend Marc Malone has been quick to make note that although my attempt at blogging was sincere he wishes to express his condolences to the whole idea. So Marc, here I am. Hope you enjoy ... lol

We have had so much happen in the past few months and I will make every attempt within the next few weeks to get everyone up to date. We have pictures from Halloween, the Holidays, birthdays, and special events. Ryan continues to grow and blossom as he learns about life and laughter. Matthew .... well, Matthew is Matthew. He laughs a lot, eats a lot, and brings much joy to our lives. He is growing so quickly and seemingly changes every day. I suspect that by spring he will be walking and our lives will again change into another gear.

Yesterday we were able to take the boys on their first trip to the Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus. We had wonderful seats and really had a good time. I must add however that this is a VERY expensive trip. Never have I been somewhere, where 20's seem to fly out of your pocket like pennies. $15 for a snow cone!! Of course one is not told of the obnoxious price until your child has taken possession of one of these and has already dragged his tongue over it. Anyway, I complain but nothing brings us greater joy then to see Ryan and Matthew giggle and have a wonderful time. It was well worth it.


Today we celebrated Matthews first birthday (which is not until March 6th). My mom and Jim came over for the day and we had a wonderful time as always. We always have a nice time with them and are so grateful that they live close enough that they are able to come for short visits. They have been a source of support, love, and joy for us and we could never thank them properly for all they have done. So thank you to the both of you. We love you tons.


After lunch Matthew got the party started by opening some of his presents. Ryan was nice enough to help him, although Matthew seemed to be able to handle it himself. Ryan, like most young children, has this uncontrollable urge to assist when others are opening presents.











Once Matthew, and Ryan, had finished opening gifts it was on to the most entertaining part of the day, the birthday cake. We all agreed, once we were done, that we had never witnessed a child enjoy birthday cake more than our poor Matthew. I could go on and on but these pictures speak for themselves ...












... and then when we took the cake away (Susie I'm sorry I had too)












I couldn't end this entry without wishing my Grandma Toshi well. She has been feeling a little under the weather and we think about her often. Grandma, keep fighting and get well soon. We all love you and know you'll be back on your feet in no time. Our love goes out to you and we can't wait until we are all together again.

Jean, we know you have been through a lot as well. Soon the journey will once again be through. What waits for you both is much joy and happiness. We are so happy for you, Brian, and Avery. Keep battling. It's worth every moment.

Amy, what can I say. Some time has passed and we still miss having you close. It sounds as though you continue to adjust. We wish we were closer to see all of Liam's "firsts". I'm sure you and Pete are heavily into being parents and there is no question I'm sure you're good at it. We'd love to see you all so anytime you're near please come visit.

Dad, congrats on your new place in Florida. I know you're excited and I'm sure you'll take every opportunity to personalize it as your own. I know that you said it is already furnished but I know you better than that. You'll be fiddling with something soon. Enjoy the rest of your stay and keep in touch.

So I finally did it. A few months have passed by, but we are back. Today it was 60 degrees and if my prayers are answered, winter will be behind us. The birds were singing today and the sun shined with purpose. It has been a difficult winter, as most are. We were spared any large snow storms (although Susan had a few days off and delays, much to my dismay). However it seems as though once sickness enters our home it does not leave until the first bud appears on the trees. So I stand anxiously staring at the trees, waiting for that bud to come! Today was a good start.

I hope everyone is well and we look forward to seeing and talking with you soon.

... and Marc, thanks for the push .....

Love always,
The Green Clan