Sunday, October 30, 2005

Mike Martchitelli (aka, Smurf) Turns 40

There is a rather alarming epedemic of 40th birthdays breaking out among my friends.  Most recently, my college friend and swimming teammate Mike Marchitelli (known affectionately as Smurf), achieved this milestone.  His wife Jennifer arranged a big party in their current hometown of Crested Butte, Colorado, where Jen and Mike run an Italian restaurant.  Another college friend, Rob Clark and I, along with seemingly every resident of Crested Butte were in attendence.  Here are some pictures, which probably won't be that interesting to those of you who don't know Mike and Jen.  I thought I'd post them anyway -- you might want to take a look if not for the people, for the truly breathtaking scenery. 

Off to School

One of the great things about our new location is that Nina and David can walk, ride bikes, or scooter to school.  They really love this newfound independence.  And, so far, they've made it to school every day, thanks in no small measure to Dad's explanation of the role of the Truant Officer.  Here are a few pictures of the kids on their first days of school -- Nina and David heading off to Wildwood Elementary, and Stephen to Scribbles Preschool.

And Then There Was Katrina

Only a couple of weeks after we got settled in Mountain Lakes, Katrina hit.  There really isn't much I can say about this tragedy that hasn't already been said much more articulately.  Ever since the levees broke, we have been simply heartsick and worried about our New Orleans relatives, and about a city that Lisa and I both love.  One of the best things I've seen written about Katrina and its aftermath is this article from the New York Times Magazine.  The author is a New Orleans native whose parents still live in the Garden District.  The article is a gripping account of what really went on in the days and weeks after the storm.  It's definitely worth taking the time to read this.

Thursday, October 27, 2005

We're In!

Not long after finally moving into our new house in Mountain Lakes, the kids enjoy homemade popsicles on a hot August afternoon.

August Trip to DC

In early August, we traveled back to the DC area, primarily to go to a birthday celebration for my college friend, P.D. (Pat Dunne).  Unforunately, it was on this trip that Matthew developed a serious (and mysterious) skin infection near his eye.  He had to spend two nights in Children's Hospital in Washington.  Fortunately, he recovered quickly, but we were really worried for a little while.  After he was released from the hospital, it was nice to be able to go out for a little fun with friends.

Mountain Lake

These pictures are from a trip to Island Beach on beautiful Mountain Lake a week or two after we arrived in New Jersey.  At this point, we were still in temporary housing in another town, but we made the short drive to Mountain Lakes many times to start getting to know our new home.

Tuesday, October 25, 2005

Michael Turns Three

Michael's third birthday party was just a couple of days before we moved.  Stephen and I were lucky enough to be able to join in the fun.  I have to apologize to Ellie and Bob for not sharing these sooner!

Nina's First Horseback Riding Lesson

Back in July, Nina had her first riding lesson at a stable in Virginia.  I had to stay back with the Matthew and David, so I asked Lisa to make sure she took lots of pictures.  Here are the highlights.

July 4, Still In Chevy Chase

Here are a few pictures from the Town of Chevy Chase Fourth of July Party.  It was a great event, with barbeque, live music and perfect weather.  Olivia, Aunt Christina and Nonni joined us.

Monday, October 24, 2005

Weeeee're Baaaaack!!!!

I can't believe it's been almost four months since the last time I updated the Blog.  Obviously, a lot has happened in that time.  Over the next several days, I'm going to chronicle our journey since July.  So keep checking back if your interested.