What's New?

July 2010 - Sully is 20 months old and Pax is 7 1/2 months. Pax is sitting great, pulling himself up, and doing a lot of rocking - so, crawling is imminent. He is still a very happy baby and loves to flash you a smile. Sully still loves being a big brother. His vocabulary is increasing a little bit - momma, dadda, up, uh oh, uh uh, abba (I think for Bob Dylan), pop pop. He understands everythign that is going on but is still working on vocalizing his thoughts. He sings, dances, jumps, runs, climbs in his tree fort, helps his mom, and loves when people visit. Speaking of which, we enjoyed a wonderful visit from Jeff, Kate, Natasha, and Nathan at the end of June; and Baba, Pap, Uncle Terry, and Aunt Dianne in mid-July. Jeff and Kate visited on their way to Florida and the rest of the family came out for Jason's 40th birthday. We had a great time with everyone and were so happy everyone had a chance to meet the kids. Aside from family visiting, we also celebrated Jason's birthday with a suprise party at the Brickside and a night away in NYC. The kids went to their first wedding on July 4th and wore matching pants and shirts - yup, matching outfits. We also went to Brigantine Beach, Ocean City boardwalk, and the campground this past weekend where Sully went on his first merry-go-round, train, and boat. Pax ate his first sand and Sully had his first caramel popcorn. We had a great time. It's been a busy month but lots of fun. Enjoy the pics.

May 2010 - Sully is 18 months old and Pax is 5 1/2 months. Sully loves running all over the place now and exploring. He also loves water and had a great time at Brigantine Beach, the campground's baby pool, and Marsh Creek over Memorial Day weekend. Pax is sitting up really well and loves playing with all different sorts of toys now. He's not crawling yet and doesn't have much of an interest in staying on his belly - just like his big brother. He is a bit more hesitant in the water but I think he'll come around. We are looking forward to spending a lot of time at the pool this summer and heading back to the beach. Teh backyard is also fenced in so Sully can go exploring without worrying about him running out onto the street - which is fantastic for Mama (me). Bob Dylan is hanging in there. Sully just started petting nice just in time for Pax to start pulling his ears. He definately has whitened around the snout before his time. We are in the middle of building a treefort for the boys which will probably be complete over the next month. The kids are getting more active in their playgroup and will likely be going to kindergarten with the same group of kids. I am also going to sign up Sully for a free arts and crafts program at the library for one and two year olds - we'll see how it goes because Pax will also be in attendance. Lastly, I never thought 5 minutes would mean a long shower for me. Hope all is well. Check out the lates pictures.

Memorial Day Parade in Malvern, PA with Gram, Pop Pop, Aunts, Uncle, and cousins. The horns and sirens scared Sully towards the end.

June 2010. Sully and Pax at Marsh Creek Lake

Memorial Day Weekend May 2010 - Brigantine Beach, Campground, Backyard

Memorial Day at the campground. Sully at his first dance. Pics w/ Gram and Aunt Connie.

April 2010 - Kids playing in yard, Sully playing with hose, Pax sleeping in swing

March/April 2010 - Pax eating cereal, Sully playing in yard, Sully and Pax at Aunt Renee's for Kelsey and Rylee's birthday parties

April 2010 - Sully is 16 months old now and Pax is 3 1/2 months. What's new? Sully loves playing on his new backyard swingset although he likes to put the brakes on (his legs) when he goes down the slide and has already taken a tumble or two. He is much more stable on his legs and no longer needs to wear his crash helmet. He climbs up the steps in the playgrounds now and then tries to climb back off, yikes. He knows what he wants and is is good at getting his point across, although he's still not talking. Sully is an explorer and enjoys taking everything in. He also loves sitting down and going through his books. Pax is grasping and batting things, kicking with his legs, giggling, and very vocal. He has slept through the night a few times although not consistently. He's still in the bassinet in our room although he may move to his own room soon - until it gets too hot this summer and he moves back into our room. I am enjoying staying home with the boys, especially now that we can all get outside for walks to the playground. Jason and I enjoyed a quick trip to New Orleans and are looking forward to hitting the beach this summer with the kids. That's about it. Check out the pictures. There are some of Sully playing at different playgrounds, discovering his own swingset in the backyard, eating his first easter bunny, participating in his first egg hunt, taking a bath with Pax, and hanging out with his cousins. There are also some of Pax climbing his first tree... well, maybe not yet, but there are plenty of him hanging out. There are also some of our New Orleans trip. Enjoy!

Easter 2010. Dinner at Gram and Pop Pops. Sully's first haircut.

March/April 2010. Sully at the playgrounds, New Orleans, Discovering Swingset, Sully and the Easter Bunny?

February 2010. Snow. Valentines Day. Sully and Pax.

February 2010 - We enjoyed?? two big snowstorms only four days apart from one another. The first one we got around 20 inches and the second one we received 26 inches. The total broke the all time record for this area. Jason was in Ft. Lauderdale during snowstorm number 2, poor him. Pax is two months old now and is enjoying batting his toys around, holding his head up, and getting stronger on his legs. Sully loves his baby brother and tries to give him hugs, with the occasional pinch and bite so we need to closely monitor that. He also tries to wrestle with Pax and I can only imagine what they will be like a year from now when Pax can wrestle back. Other than that, not much is new. Jason and I enjoyed a night out in Philadelphia and visiting old friends. Of course, we don't have any pictures of that and only ever take pics of the kids now. We are heading to AC for a night out in a few weeks. Big money big money. There are links to some pics below. Enjoy.

Pics of the second snowstorm. February 2010.

Pictures of Sully and Pax and the first snowstorm. February 2010.

Pics of the family. January 2010.

January 2009 - Sully, Pax, and the whole family enjoyed a nice visit from Baba and Pap. It was too cold most days to do much but we were able to venture out for one walk to the park. Enjoy the pics!

Link to pictures from Baba and Pap's visit

January 2009 - Pax and Sully enjoyed their first Christmas together. We had a casual Christmas morning with Gram and Pop Pop. Sully enjoyed playing with his new toys but wasn't into tearing open the gifts yet - maybe next year. From there, we had appetizers and dessert at Kristin and Bryan's house. Then the festivities continued with a nice dinner at Renee, Kelsey, and Rylee's on Sunday. All in all a great first Christmas for Pax and second for Sully. Our New Years was a bit lackluster. Jason and I watched CNN and HGTV - woo hoo. We did manage to stay awake though. We also had our first dinner out without the kids in a really long time. Thanks Gram and Pop Pop for watching the kids! Hope everyone had a good holiday. Enjoy the pics.

Link to Christmas Pics

December 11, 2009 - Paxton Boone Shirer has finally arrived! Weighing in at 8 pounds 4 ounces, 19 3/4 inches long at 4:47 p.m. We are soooo excited and happy about the new little guy. Sully and Bob Dylan seem to be happy as well.

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Pictures of Sully and Pax from the first week

Pictures of Sully with Santa and Thanksgiving

November 2009 - It's been a busy November. Bob Dylan had to have surgery to remove infected anal glands and finally got his sutures removed. Until then, we had to watch him around the clock to make sure he didn't tear or "scoot" his sutures out. So, I ended up diapering my two boys just to be on the safe side. He has recovered with no side effects - phew. Sully celebrated his 1st birthday with a party at Gram and Pop Pops. We didn't host it at our house just in case #2 arrived early. We are getting ready for Thanksgiving dinner at Aunt Connie and Uncle Tommy's house today. Sully loves turkey and mashed potatoes and is looking forward to dinner this year. I think he was only a few days old for last year's Thanksgiving. And of course, we are also awaiting the birth of little brother. Everything is ready to go so we are hoping the baby arrives soon. Next update, new baby! Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Click on pic for link to Shirer bday pics

Link to birthday pics from Aunt Jill

October 2009 - Sully enjoyed visiting cows and goats at Highland Orchards and Milky Way Farm. He also picked out his first pumpkin at the pumpkin patch and even designed his own jackolantern (sort of). He greeted the trick or treaters dressed as a Monkey. He is walking around the house now behind his new walk behind shopping cart. He still isn't walking without support. As far as sleeping, I don't know what I was thinking leaving him sleep with us for so long because now it is very hard to get him back in his crib - which we need to do before the new baby arrives. So, we've had a lot of semi-sleepless nights but he is staying in his crib all night, although not without tears. I will be full term with the new baby in only 3 weeks! We are still struggling with a name, much like we did with Sully's name. I am looking forward to spending a few days in the hospital hanging out with the new baby, watching tv, and having my meals delivered - is that wrong? Sully isn't allowed in the hospital because of the swine flu so I will have to run outside a couple times so I can see him. That's about it. Jason finished his final business trip before the baby arrives last week. We are still busy getting some things done around the house and of course, raking and mulching leaves. Hope all is well with everyone. We will have some pictures of Sully's birthday party in a few weeks and then his new brother!

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Septemeber 2009 - First, the Sully update. He is crawling, pulling himself up, walking along things, testing his balance with no hands, climbing up steps, and exploring the whole house. He says "mama" and I think he understands but hasn't said other words yet. He loves to eat whatever we are eating which is making us eat healthier. There are pictures of him enjoying Marsh Creek Lake, different pools, a visit from Baba and Pap, a concert and fireworks, his first Phillies game, and playing around the house. He's not much of a napper and we are lucky if we get 1 to 1 1/2 hours in total per day. He also doesn't like to wake up alone in his crib so he ususally ends up with us. I know there are a lot of people who say not to do this but there are just as many who advocate for it. So, for now it helps us all get sleep. He is looking forward to picking apples and pumpkins and already has his Halloween costume to greet the neighbors and maybe attend the Malvern Halloween parade with his cousins. Now for the new baby update. I am past 29 weeks and only have another eight weeks or so until I'm considered full term. Definately hard to believe how quickly this pregnancy has flown by. So far everything is going smoothly. We got a 3D ultrasound and some of the pictures are included. As for other updates, Jason and I have been busy getting things done around the house. The new baby's nursery is done, we put rocks in as landscape borders, ripped out old bushes and planted new things, made lattice covers to hide the propane tank and air conditioner, and so on and so on. At least this winter there is no yard work except the occasional shoveling. That's about it. Enjoy the pics!

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July 2009 - We visited St. Peters Village for lunch, had some friends over for a BBQ on the 4th of July, went to the Downingtown 4th of July festival, to the campground for a night, and to Tampa/Clearwater to visit Baba and Pap. Bob Dylan had fun staying at Camp Volpe. Sully had a great time on his outings and while in Florida and he misses Baba and Pap. As far as temperature goes, Florida in July.... a little toasty. Jason and I also enjoyed visiting old friends and seeing how much their kids have grown. Enjoy the pictures.

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Sullivan is going to have a little brother!

June 2009 - Sully is just about 7 months old. He is busy racing circles around the house in his walker. So far, he seems much more inclined to walk than crawl. He also went swimming for the first time in the big pool and seemed to enjoy it. He's eating all sorts of fruits and veggies now and likes everything but peas. He is heading to a weekly neighborhood music fest tonight and is looking forward to it and a local farmers/craft market tomorrow. He is also getting ready for his big trip on an airplane. Not much new with Jason and me. We are busy prettying up the yard. Jason also got a tractor from Uncle Tommy and Aunt Connie which is helping out great. Thanks again!!

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June 2009 - Sully is just over 6 months and weighs in just over 17 pounds. He is rolling, sitting, talking, walking in his walker, jumping in his jumparoo, and all sorts of other things. He loves to be naked baby and laughs a lot every night when we change him into his PJs. Recently, he went to a crawfish boil, for a walk at French Creek Park, to the Malvern Memorial Day Parade, swam in his baby pool, and hit the Jersey shore for the first time. He hasn't swam in the big pool yet but that will be soon, and I'm sure he will kick up a storm. He's into his orange veggies and loves everything so far. He has a loud, deep voice like his Dad's. Eventually, I'll get some video on you tube and will provide the link. Enjoy the pics!

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May 2009 - Sully is 6 months old. Hard to believe how fast it's gone. He is trying very hard to crawl and sit on his own, loves to laugh and smile, loves playing and standing up, can roll and shimmy around, talks all the time, and sleeps through the night. He is a very happy baby which makes Jason and I very happy as well. And, he is going to be a big brother right after his first birthday!! That's right, we are pregnant again and the baby is due 12/4/09 - almost exactly a year after sully's due date. We are very excited. I think Bob Dylan could take it or leave it. Some attention has naturally been diverted away from the pup but he'll get plenty once Sully starts chasing him and trying to ride him. Susan is also officially a full time stay at home Mom starting at the end of May. Enjoy the pics.

Click on pic for link to more pics (Sully 3 - 4 months)

Click on pic for more pics. Sully 5-5 1/2 months

February 2009 - Sully is almost 3 months old! It's hard to believe. He is now grasping things and loves batting around his toys in his play yard. The longest he's slept at night so far is four hours but we are hoping that will keep getting a little longer. Susan goes back to work on Monday part-time. Gram is watching Sully while she's working. So, going back to work isn't that hard knowing he's in great hands and we are very thankful to have her help. The pictures are from two to three months old. We were trying to see which features he had that looked like Jason versus me. So, there's quite a bit of Jason, me, and Sully.

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January 2009: Sully is 2 months old weighing in at 10 1/2 pounds. The doctor said he is doing well. He's smiling, recognizing voices, holding his head up, and pouting from time to time. He has the Shirer head and the Shirer and Volpe height. So he'll have to play second base instead of point guard, no biggie. He is enjoying his glider, swing, and play yard now. He's been on four walks now (it's usually too cold); out to eat twice (Christophers and Brickside); and over to Aunt Kit Kat and Uncle BTs, Gram and Pop Pops, and Aunt Renee's houses. He was already kicked out of his first bar (Boathouse in Wayne). They wouldn't allow his kind there (boo). He is looking forward to the Steeler's game this Sunday.

What's new with Bob Dylan you ask? The pup is doing great with Sully. He is his protector and I'm sure some day they'll be great pals, as long as Bob Dylan stops chasing scents. We almost lost him yet again. This time not to deer or rabbits in Florida, but red fox. That's what we get for adopting a hunting dog with a championship lineage (unbeknowst to us at the time). By the sound of his howls he was miles away and at risk for getting lost or getting hit by a car. Luckily, the fox turned back and I nabbed him 1/2 mile away. Our chances of getting "in" with the neighbors may be halted by the crazy lady running through their backyards in slippers or the person screeching up and down the streets screaming Bob Dylan. At least I was in Jason's car for the latter. And who doesn't drive a bright green Element?

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Christmas 2008: Christmas Eve appetizers at Shirer's pub, Christmas Eve dessert at the Thomas', Christmas morning at Shirers, Christmas dinner at Renee's.

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Sully's trip to park in Malvern w/ cousins and some more face pics.

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November 21, 2008 - Sullivan Birch Shirer is born. 6 lbs 15 oz, 19 inches.

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November 2008 - We hosted a Harvest Dinner for family at our house on 11/1 because we'll probably be unable to attend and/or host Thanksgiving or Christmas with everyone this year. We went on a stroll w/ the pup at French Creek in St. Peters Village. We are also busy raking/mulching leaves and waiting for Rocky Choo Choo to arrive in a few weeks. Susan had her last business trip and is happy she didn't have to deliver in Fairfax, VA. Car seat is in and we are ready to roll...... (we think). Rocky Choo Choo weighed in at 6 pounds even on 10/30. So, he will likely be around the high 8 to 9 pound mark.

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Baby 31 weeks 4 days. 4 lbs 4 oz

September 2008 - Cousin Karen hosted a crab party for family. Jason and I visited Valley Forge Park, Marsh Creek, and Brigantine Beach. My cousin Renee, Aunt Connie, and Mom hosted a baby shower for Jason and I. We finished the nursery and the basement. Check out all the pics! We are at week 31 and officially in single digits (in weeks) remaining. Due date of 12/1/08. We are still grappling with a name but are considering the following: Sullivan (Sullie), Tug, Birch, Tucker (although as Kristin pointed out this rhymes w/ you know what), and Rocky Choo Choo.

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We finally have some new pics. So, check them out.

Click on picture for link to more pics. 4 months pregnant

We are back in PA, pregnant, both employed, and just moved into our new house. I should have pictures of everything mid-July.

The Annual Bolt Run outside St. Pete Times Forum/Our new Apt/redneck beach along Gandy

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We are moving to PA at the end of March! We should close on the house today (2/20).

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November 2007 - Thanksgiving, Deer, Jason on Roof, Random house Pics

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October 2007 - Milky Way Farm, Chester Springs (Susan's hometown), PA

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September 2007 - Vermont Trip

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Sept 14, 2007 - 5th Anniversary Madeira Beach Weekend

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September 2007 - Parents Visit: Clearwater Beach, Egmont Key, Roys, Football, Horshoes, Fishing Skyway Pier, and The Legion

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August 2007 - Bahamas Cruise with Friends

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August 2007 - Our friend's 1st Bday in Fort Desoto Park, our nephews' first Bday in Malvern, our Dad's suprise Bday at Victory Brewing Company, Wissahickon Park in Philly

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July 2007 - Home Repairs, Skipper's Americana Festival, and Weeki Wachi Spring

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Skipper's Smokehouse

June 2007 - Honeymoon Island (30 min from house)

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May 2007 - Memorial Day BBQ and Craig and Devin Visit

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May 2007 - Philly Trip

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RIP. Ford Focus ZX3. 2006-2007. It was a tough way to get a new car, but Jason got a new Element.

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New strategy for car buying. We mass faxed the following language based on a recommendation from someone who posted on the Honda Element owner's club website. "I am ready to purchase a new 2007 Honda Element LX, 2WD, Orange or Green, Automatic TODAY for $XXX TOTAL plus tax and tag transfer. This amount is non-negotiable. I realize you could probably sell an Element to someone else for more than I am willing to pay, but why not sell to BOTH of us and roll another unit?. I can be reached at XXXX." By doing this, we actually ended up getting it for less than the price we named b/c the dealers underbid each other. We got it for $675 under invoice price listed on Kelly Blue Book. Not bad. Give it a whirl next time you buy.

April 2007 - First Annual Friend's Picnic

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April 2007 - Lara and Drew visit

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Easter 2007 - Parents are in town

Things we did: visit St. Augustine (lunch pizza place, oysters at sports pub, dinner at Henleys - theme for trip "bad service" - see pics), visit Tampa Bay Downs (Mom and Dad were both winners), Went to Storm game, Easter brunch (Mom, Dad, Jason, and Me - smoked salmon quiche, baked french toast, turkey bacon, fruits), visit Lowry Park Zoo (see pics), Oysters at Ballyhoos for Easter Dinner, campfire that night, bowling.

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St. Augustine Pics

Lowry Park Zoo pics

Visit Family in Philly March 2007

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March 2007 - St. George Island, FL Chilli Cookoff

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February 24, 2007 - Bob Dylan's 3rd Bday, The Shirers come to Dinner, and the Sandhill Crane comes to the hood

I'm celebrating my bday and Mardi Gras with my new rabbit

Bubba, Pap, and the Vermont Crew (Kate, Jeff, Nathan, and Natasha) come over for dinner

Unfortunately, this Sandhill Crane's mate was hit by a car - so he's flying solo :(

February 2007 - We enter yuppydom and try a new shabby chic look

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January 2007 - Gasparilla Invasion, Tampa, FL

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It's Gasparilla time again! Tampa has a huge festival every year called Gasparilla. It's a month long event that has a lot of different activities from parades to runs to arts festivals. They have an "Invasion" where a pirate ship comes in and pirates demand the key to the city from the mayor. The pictures are of views from Jacksons Restaurant towards the Convention Center. Following the invasion is the parade. It's essentially Tampa's version of Mardi Gras with different Krewes. A good time.

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