The Charest Family Blog

Sneak Peak

2011-12-05T16:50:00.001-08:00

Photo Card

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2011-09-23T06:25:00.000-07:00

The calendar says it's fall! But here's a look back at our summer to get over those end of summer blues.

Summer Fun from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Natick Friends of the 4th Family Nite

2011-08-04T19:40:00.001-07:00

We met up with our Natick crew out at the Natick Friend's of the 4th Family Nite for a little fun in some great weather.

Jumpy house funtimes

Tyler was happy to be about as always.

Ben got bored of sitting around.

And his boredom was contagious.

Tyler likes the Mickey helmet.

And grass.

What's Josh doing?

Ah, trying to connect with Ty.

They shared a moment in the sunset.

WTF is this?

Anyone?

Whoa, it's the Easter Bunny and he wasn't happy about this out of season pick! I was quickly roughed by his bouncers and accused of being part of the Paparazzi.

Still a fun nite. (I know how to spell but like this informal spelling whenever possible)

Morgan's New Swings

2011-08-02T18:23:00.000-07:00

After our camping trip, we were happy to be home and went over Morgan's house to see her new swings!

She was happy to let us all play in her new digs.

We also blew and ate bubbles with Navin.

Then the golf balls started flying. Good swing!

Aha, caught you in the Pretty Pretty Princesses.

Someone's suspicious of that mouse.

Whoa.

Jam band.

Too many carrots.

What's that smell?

Party pooper. Time to go.

Enjoying and Leaving Connecticut

2011-07-25T16:41:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed our site during our Connecticut camping trip. Ty spent time chilling in his pack-n-play and Ben entertained him through the screen.

Food was from the grill.

Or the avocado, with mixed reviews.

The Big Agnes kept us safe and dry.

We even made it out for a kayak trip.

Our first camping trip with Ty was definitely fun. The campground was amazing and we really enjoyed our time together. After this nap though, we quickly packed up and escaped in the early evening to deal with double ear infections! Ouch. We'll be back

Camping in Connecticut: Day 2-Hammonasset Beach

2011-07-13T19:41:00.001-07:00

On Saturday we awoke and set out to explore the beach that was just steps away from our campsite. The weather was spectacular after the heavy storm that past Friday evening.

He never looks the right way. His mind was on his Skuut bike.

And Tyler was happy to bask in the warm sun and nap. Smart kid.

Mid June was a great time to hit this beach. The weather was great and the crowds were low.

Plenty of room to Skuut too.

Ahh, look who decided to wake up.

Camping in Connecticut: The First Nite

2011-07-12T20:09:00.000-07:00

Camping! Ah the great outdoors. We went to Hammonasett Beach State Park for a long Father's Day weekend. It was only two hours away but felt like a new world. There was so much to see and do at this site, it's worth coming back.

We excitedly set up camp the first night including our newest gear seen next to the truck behind the trees, our blue Eureka screen house.

Grilling some hot dogs, we hear a loud speaker around the campground, "Attention, severe weather expected in the next half hour." Whoops, better get to battening down the hatches. We put the kids to bed and rode out the storm in the tent. At around 8:00 the heavy storm passed and the sky began to glow!

Luck was on our side this nite since the bad weather quickly came and went. The kids were happily sleeping in the tent so we enjoyed this light and then I played my first game of cribbage in the screenhouse with my lady.

In the next post, we hit the beach!

Meatballs are Back!

2011-07-11T19:25:00.000-07:00

Meatballs and red sauce have been a love/hate relationship for us since Ben was diagnosed with food allergies at age 1. The verdict, eggs and tomatoes. Not easy to make a meatball according to my Aunt Elle's specifications. So, no meatballs graced our table since then (except for a few hidden take out subs).

Now 3, Ben has been retested and low and behold, no more food allergies. But it had been so long, we forgotten about the spherical meat, tomato covered temptresses until the John Tesh Radio show...waaaa?

Driving to NH a few weeks back, what better to guide us through the darkness than John Tesh? (I know, still...waaa?) Anywho, on this night, he spoke of the latest craze hitting America, meatballs! With the economy down, more people were cooking at home and increasing the amount of meatballs consumed per capita. Also, celebrity chefs were adopting gourmet meatballs to add to their menus. Blah, blah, blah; Intelligence for Your Life.

Getting home on Sunday nite, we didn't realize the impact of the late nite meatball discussion. We needed them and bad. A couple hours later according to Elle's meatball methods, Ben is loving meatballs.

Back on Meatballs from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Story Land June 2011

2011-07-10T07:10:00.000-07:00

First trip to Story Land of the year! We went up with friends the Linsons and Bienstocks. We played the weather. The day started off fun with a visit to 'Area A'.

Awhh!

Uh Oh! Clouds and rain rolling in.

We spent the rest of the day waiting for trains, sitting in the Story Land show audiences, then retired at 2:00 for a game of Phase 10 at the hotel. We'll be back.

Waiting for a train from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Zoo Day

2011-07-06T19:31:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back we felt like doing something fun. So we pulled out the map and Ben chose the Zoo!

We had a great time looking at all the animals and getting some fresh city air.

At the end of the day we were all in great spirits after spending a fun family day together.

Big Band Bikes

2011-06-28T06:10:00.000-07:00

A night to get together and ride bikes at the town common turns into a swinging time.

Big Band Bikes from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Ben's Birthday III-"...Shunting Cars and Hauling Freight"

2011-06-22T19:39:00.001-07:00

Anyone who has watched more Thomas than they care for knows that earworm...

But, we had to impress the boy with our Thomas knowledge and throw him the best party this side of Tidmouth Sheds (that's where the engine sleep didn't you know).

So first off, take a ride on Thomas. It wasn't really Thomas. Just a Miller Lite box with a face.

No, no. Sarah did a great job decorating and drawing Thomas onto this non-beer box.

Next up, the Splinter Zone. No one got splinters, just colored their own small wooden train to take home.

Bea's was beautiful.

Yummy Thomas cake!

Ben was speechless admiring the patisserie.

He's a funny kid.

Topham Hatt!

I was supposed to be Sir Topham Hatt but Ben wouldn't let me put on the hat. Ok for him though.

Best out of 10 tries.

Great party though.

Easter '11

2011-06-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

We hopped up the bunny trail to the Great North this Spring to see our families. No egg hunt this year as snow was falling.

But everyone found fun things at Mimi's

Like cool shades

And funny expressions wearing cool shades.

And cousins

Buckets

And Happy Easter smiles.

Don't forget tickles!

Monster Ball Soup!

2011-06-21T17:43:00.000-07:00

I got really into making Matzo ball soup around the high holidays.

This was a special bowl I made for Ben.

Spring Visitors

2011-06-21T17:12:00.000-07:00

This was AGES AGO, but still fun. The Tripps came for a Spring time visit to the East. It was warm enough to enjoy the Spring Sunshine.

Matthew popped into Ben's clubhouse for a visit.

The boys had fun playing on a warm blanket.

Ty enjoyed being outside and meeting new friends.

So did Ben.

Bringing Jumpy Back

2011-02-23T18:34:00.000-08:00

Yah! The jumpy is back in action. Looks pretty good after taking a beating from two kids (Ben and Sawyer-a friend to the blog). This little guy loves it too.

Bringing Jumpy Back from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

A New Blogger

2011-02-01T19:33:00.000-08:00

The other night we posed for some fun pictures after dinner.

Some were much more funny and strange than others, especially from this guy!

Tyler was very photogenic which prompted me to enlist some help.

This blog is a lot of time taking pictures and posting. I get behind quickly. But since Christmas, I've had help at least taking pictures. .

Ben does a great job getting some key shots

We all decided that Tyler should pose for some shots in the Bumbo to round out the night.

There is something quite comical about a baby in a Bumbo.

But he could get all scared and serious on you too.

Or worse.

-Charests

Jonny's Gym Party

2011-01-31T19:39:00.000-08:00

Ben's good friend Jonny invited us to his 3rd birthday party at My Gym. I can't believe Ben now has 3 year old friends. He'll be there in 4 short months.

It was fun hanging out at the gym with Jonny and his friends.

Tyler tagged along for the festivities but couldn't have any cake.

Something about these balls sends Ben's hair on end!

Ty got a kick out of watching his big brother play, run and zoom around.

This is the second gym party we've gone too and I can't ever get this picture in focus. Suggestions?

Cupcake time (eggless baking). I have to start making these a bit smaller. This cupcake was still being eaten when all the other kids were walking out.

We all enjoyed the day out.

-Charests

Are you having a laugh?

2011-01-27T18:01:00.000-08:00

I think he's having a laugh!

Snow Day

2011-01-24T19:05:00.000-08:00

The Holidays and the New Year came and went pretty quickly. We did end up spending some time with these guys at their blog (holts + the deaners = bass pro shop)

Shortly into the new year, we got our first snow day. It was a real blizzard and Sarah had to go into work so I hung out with the boys for a nice quiet day, except for Tyler's new noises!

Untitled from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Christmas There-Up North

2011-01-06T17:33:00.001-08:00

Ben was relentless about asking to open more presents...PLEASE!!!!

And just when he thought he'd have to ask again next year for "his own tickathitar (you'll see)", a Christmas miracle occurred.

After a brief inspection, Ben gave us his best first guitar solo.

It sounded magical and not at all annoying. Yup the blue knob is volume, but Kawasaki forgot an On/Off button but I'll blame Santa.

Take it Nana! Get on down.

Thanks again for a great Christmas morning.

Christmas Here, There, and Everywhere

2011-01-05T17:52:00.001-08:00

Christmas started at our place under our tree as Santa came early. It was very exciting to see Ben really react to the gifts. Very excited.

Unwrapping was fun this year and he was fully committed.

The gifts at home weren't super huge but there were many. We left a lot of the spoiling to the grandparents which took place on Christmas day up North. It was very nice spending this morning at home though and showing what Christmas is all about to Tyler.

The Original Charest Family Holidays

2010-12-27T17:49:00.000-08:00

I debuted this movie from Christmas past at my mom's Christmas party, which has been going on for quite a long time. It has a familiar character to introduce the footage.

Happy Holidays to our friends and family.

The Original Charest Holidays from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Tree Trimming Action Figures

2010-12-22T21:17:00.000-08:00

We are all getting very excited for Christmas around here! Although we'll be spending time up North, we did get a tree and decorated it together. It was fun and Ben really got into it. Some of the ornaments he claimed as his own and still remain missing. But it should get you in a good spirit if you aren't quite there.

See you soon.

Tree Trimming from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Meeting the man in red!

2010-12-20T17:55:00.001-08:00

Sarah and the boys braved the mall crowds to get some face time with the big guy with a few days to go! Tyler is also 3 months old today! Merry Christmas everyone!

You Gotta Have a Baby (for Tyler)

2010-12-15T19:05:00.000-08:00

Wow, Tyler is twelve weeks old (that's three months if you don't usually count in weeks like I have for the last two years). He has grown so much since those first few days. It was a very special time when we were wondering, 'how's Ben going to take his little brother?'; 'are we going to be able to afford two kids?'; 'where are the pee pee teepees?'; 'will it ever be quiet in this house?'

So happens that I've been working on his special video that captures this short time in our lives and it's ready for you to see. Enjoy!

Gotta Have a Baby (for Tyler) from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Christmas Raabing: A Holiday Party

2010-12-13T19:22:00.000-08:00

We had a fun filled get together at the Raab's house over the weekend. Good kids, great friends, and something new-chicken parmesan calzones. Oh and check out Ben's hair. Something was up. He also had to borrow some special jammies after a mishap. A very fun night.

Christmas Raabing from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Christmas card 2010

2010-12-13T18:50:00.001-08:00

Modern Peace Target Holiday

Holiday cards personalized with your favorite photos.

View the entire collection of cards.

Polar Express Story-Time

2010-12-12T09:22:00.000-08:00

On Friday Night, we continued with holiday happenings and attended a Polar Express Story Time. It was also a fund raiser for an elementary school in Framingham. I don't know why but I just love that story. We took a copy home for our own readings for years to come.

Polar Express Story-Time from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Tree Lighting

2010-12-09T19:49:00.000-08:00

This year, is all about low key celebrations. Instead of the Bigger Fancier tree lightings around Metrowest, we did our own mini version.

Enjoy. It's quite mini.

Hello Everybody!

2010-11-20T18:54:00.000-08:00

Finally back in action. New computer, new desk, and lots going on here. Both boys keep us busy! We are certainly looking forward to the holidays and are excited to share Ty with more friends and family.

So, we just wanted to say a quick Hello again.

Hello Everybody from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Happy Birthday Pepere!

2010-10-22T12:53:00.001-07:00

Hope you are having a GREAT day!

The Blairs visit!

2010-10-18T16:26:00.000-07:00

Tyler was excited to see everyone.

The Blairs/Charests

Chilling in his bouncy chair

Tyler found his thumb!

Lindsey was pretty psyched to hold "baby" Tyler

So was Auntie Steph...

And Caitlin...

Brotherly Love!

Thanks for coming! It was great seeing everyone!

Happy Birthday Nana!

2010-10-17T17:47:00.000-07:00

Nana showing Ben his new trains!

Nana and Tyler 1 day old

Nana and her boys!

Tyler's Birth Announcement

2010-10-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

Mod Block Boy Baby Announcements

Find hundreds of elegant baby birth announcements at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Places to Sleep

2010-09-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

Tyler has been getting settled into all the different places there are to sleep.

Good nite.

Leaving the Hospital

2010-09-24T12:30:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, Sarah shot out of bed ready to head home to start our new life as a family of four.

Tyler took a little bit longer for his enthusiasm to join us.

Still unsure about our little boy's eye color.

I felt much more confident getting this guy ready than the last time we left the hospital.

We did make it home before noon and Tyler went right into the awaiting arms of his Nana. It was great to get home.

Weekend Before Showtime: Farm and Fishies Part 2

2010-09-23T08:09:00.000-07:00

Fishies!!!

We headed to the NE Aquarium to walk around and see our fishy friends the day before Tyler was born.

Myrtle

Don't be crabby.

This was our last family outing as 'the three of us'. We're glad to be four now!

Weekend Before Showtime: Farm and Fishies Part 1

2010-09-23T07:01:00.000-07:00

The weekend before Tyler was born, we decided to get out and stay active to help Sarah pass the time and let Ben have some fun. First stop, Drumlin Farm. It's a free stop on our Audobahn membership.

Silly Billy goat.

That's a good looking goat!

Giddyup and get this baby out!

Hayride fun time.

Bigass pigs.

Unfortunately creepy butterfly guy showed up so we quickly left to avoid him.

New Life

2010-09-21T17:23:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud of Sarah. She calmly got through contractions beginning at 2:30 AM and gave birth to Tyler at 11:54 AM with a huge smile on her face. How could you not smile at the new guy though.

Sports Illustrated

2010-09-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

Why do we take these pictures to embarrass these kids? Because they're hilarious and for future embarrasment.

But anyway, the little guy loves his Sports Illustrated. He loves it even more on the potty.

Yo, Afternoon BBQ with the Deaners and Holts!

2010-08-13T18:54:00.000-07:00

We were graciously invited down to Providence to spend a fun filled afternoon with the Deaners. Who else happens to show up? The Holts! On tap, grilled pizzas, t-ball, and kicking bombs!

Released from his car seat, Ben loosened up and started kicking bombs around the yard.

Then he showed Josh how to coach people in t-ball.

The disappearing ball trick.

Noah was bothered all day by paparazzi.

Ben paid a visit to Santa taking a break from the cold north (Berlin, NH).

I lost my hair.

Allergy boy isn't normally allowed to play with ketchup. Tiny tyke ketchup is hypoallergenic.

Touche'

Sarah enjoyed the sun in the garden.

A second rare Kreg Holt photo! (thanks for the borrowed flash)

The boys showed some luv to Kate.

They were getting hungry.

Ben and Julian teamed up to push Noah's car.

Gotcha!

Cute bat boy.

Welcome to The School of Kicking Bombs!

Um yaaaaaah, find another goalie. I think I'm going over there,

Yup, out of the net Charest!

Boooooooooo0000000000000000m!

Swish! Goal!

Little boooooom!

Bath time! Splash time!

Thomas time!

Time to go. What a great day.

Charest Family Growth Status Update

2010-08-12T18:20:00.000-07:00

Soooo, our family is growing. Likewise so is Sarah's baby bump. Here's some tracking shots. He'll be coming out sometime in September. We're not exactly sure when because the doc and the ultrasound tech aren't friends. Nonetheless, on with the pics.

Easter Weekend walking through the woods at 16 weeks.

Riding the subway at 17 weeks.

BBQ at 23 weeks.

Right before dinner with Heather and Jill, 25 weeks.

At the Duffy wedding, 27 weeks.

Story Land, 29 weeks.

Davis Farmland, 31 weeks.

Granite Point Beach, 33 weeks.

The Deaner's, 34 weeks.

Can't wait to post pictures of our new little boy!

Thunderstorm

2010-06-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

In the past few weeks, New England has had some crazy weather and lots of Boomers! One surprised Ben while eating his fishies. But the good thing is he's not afraid.

Nana and Pepere's Camp

2010-06-15T19:18:00.001-07:00

For a quick weekend away, we headed up to Errol to visit Nana and Pepere's camp. We expected rain all weekend but ended up with beautiful weather...and lupine.

Ben is starting to really love camp. With all the possiblities to see moose.

And wear fun moose hats.

There's lots of room outside to run around and no cars except his.

He took time to see and touch everything. I'm not sure if he liked these flowers.

We'll be back soon.

Pals Morgan and Navin

2010-06-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

On a beautiful evening (before sitting 4.5 hours on the couch for the Lost finale) we had some great times and dinner with Morgan's and Navin's families.

All smiles on the swingset.

Morgan loves pretzels.

Even sliding doesn't stop her.

Eventually Ben's small pink car broke down and he was left waiting for the service vehicle to arrive. He was told to wait with the hood up but eventually flagged down some help.

Mom came to the rescue, cash only of course.

Ben gave Navin a pedicab ride around the yard. It's an easy way to get people around with low environmental impact.

He was paid in hugs of course right before we had to head home.

Bubble Mower Running Hot!

2010-06-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

This guy could have a career in mowing lawns. Hopefully he'll do mine anyway. He runs his bubble mower so fast that the bubbles don't even have a chance to pop before he runs them over on a second pass.

Neither the camera or cameraman were harmed in this video.

Bubble Mower Running Hot from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

2nd Birthday Bash

2010-05-19T19:31:00.000-07:00

The birthday boy was surrounded by friends and family to celebrate birthday number 2. It was a gorgeous day and everyone enjoyed the weather.

Julian looked dapper in his collared shirt. We'll see him in a few weeks for his party.

Steph was a big help getting this party off the ground prepping skewers until 1 am. I encouraged her with wine. Ben was also happy to have his Auntie at the party.

And there were presents galore and this singing bear!

Navin did some heavy lifting moving the pile of toys around for us.

Ben read every card attached to his gifts to send out thank you's later.

Bubble patrol with Jill.

Papu and Matt were our comic relief.

Mimi was happy to see everyone together.

Young and old, it was a great party.

Nemo was something I whipped up.

Ben was the party animal throughout.

Until naptime hit.

Happy Birthday Buddy!

Spring BBQ!

2010-04-26T18:54:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we were lucky to have the Nicole and Kevin King visit us for a three day sleepover and the Christiansens stopped by for a BBQ on a beautiful afternoon.

Ben showed Cole how to make the four wheeler rev and play it's song (more on that later).

Let's Ride!

We saw some sharing,

Airplane spotting,

And then a dance party to the four wheeler song, "Let's start'er up...

And let'er run..."

Get ready to have some real good fun..."

It was great having everyone over!

Working Dirty

2010-04-18T14:29:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Ben showed us how to get things done. He let us know the ladder holder didn't have enough dirt inside. So he added more for us.

Getting dirty is just part of the job when you're working around the yard.

George's bushes poking through the fence needed some trimming. So Ben got his permission to do some pruning.

Ahh, another layer of hard work.

An Oreo layer went on top of the dirt.

Ben ended the day cruising around the ranch looking at progress from his hard day's work.

Mr. Pudding

2010-04-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

Ben got really into the pudding we gave him as dessert.

He also tried to grab the camera with his puddin' hands.

"Show us your pudding teeth!"

Broadmoor with the Blairs

2010-04-12T05:43:00.000-07:00

We had a great time this weekend with Lindsey, Caitlin, and Steph in town for a visit. Before heading back home, we hit the Broadmoor sanctuary to take a looksee. Turtles, geese, and ducks galore and not to mention some sisterly ribbing about what was seen and not seen in the water. There was also some surprise singing that matched up with the soundtrack from Laurie Berkner.

Thanks for coming Blairs!

Broadmoor with the Blairs from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Hunting for Eggs

2010-04-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

Easter morning was beautiful. Ben got out early accompanied by Nana and Pepere to buzz around the yard and hunt for some hidden eggs. He found them all in no time at all.

Egg Hunt from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Happy Birthday Mimi!

2010-03-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, March 14th was Mimi's birthday. Ben sent her this message over Facebook and now posted here.

Happy Birthday Mimi from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Sprung Spring

2010-03-12T03:18:00.000-08:00

In last weekend's sunshine, Ben and I hit the yard to run around and explore.

He also started up his construction company to get a jump on spring projects.

But it's too hard to choose between 4wheelers and dump trucks...

so Ben rides them both at the same time.

Later in the day we met up with Navin, Morgan, and their parents for a Saturday brunch. Brunch is perfect for this age. Adults can chat, the kids play, we eat lunch, then everyone conks out for naps.

Everyone took turns sharing the magic blue handle.

Ben took sime time out to practice his handwriting. No cursive yet, sorry.

2010-03-11T06:50:00.000-08:00

Quilts of Ann Gosselin and Sylvia Charest featured at AVH Art Gallery

from the Berlin Daily Sun, March 11, 2010

BERLIN — The Androscoggin Valley Hospital Auxiliary has announced that an exhibition of quilts by Ann Gosselin and Sylvia Charest are currently on display at AVH as part of the on-going Rotating Art Program.

Shortly after graduating from the RN program at the former Berlin Community Technical College, Ann and Sylvia vowed that the next class they enrolled in would be purely for enjoyment. They took a sampler quilt class and the rest is history. Currently Ann works on the Medical Surgical fl oor at AVH, and Sylvia works for AVH Surgical Associates. “We work to support our quilting habit,” said Sylvia. When asked whether they ever sold their quilts, Sylvia said they made them mainly for gifts, with their children and grandchildren being the main recipients. Sylvia then quoted a famous quilter’s creed: “Blessed are the children of quilters, for they shall inherit the quilts.” Ten years ago, Ann and Sylvia were able to attend the International Quilt Festival in Houston, Texas. Since then, they have been taking many quilting classes in Nashua at the Quilters Gathering.

The public is welcome to come and view this fine exhibit in the hospital’s art gallery, located in the cafeteria on the first floor. The quilts are on display until the end of March.

Nice work Mom!

A Year to Grow: Family

2010-03-10T03:36:00.000-08:00

Well, it's time to share a special video about our family.

Potty Time

2010-03-09T18:10:00.000-08:00

Ben picked out a potty to try some training during a Target run. He's getting used to it in a few ways. First he checked out the side profile. The green button is the pullout tp holder; pretty cool!

Maiden voyage just for fun

Ooh now we're having a good time. Splash guard and all.

A Year to Grow: Beach in April 2009

2010-02-15T19:10:00.000-08:00

We took a chance last April when the weather was supposed to be outstanding and headed down to the Chatam Bars Inn. This beach walk was breezy and a bit cold but was still beautiful. On the Sunday of that weekend, the weather was great and we walked the streets of Chatam in the warm sun. Something special also happened at home that weekend. Here's our beach walk.

Beach in April 09 from Mark Charest on Vimeo

Kidding around at Jill's

2010-02-14T18:47:00.000-08:00

Jill hosted us with Heather, Jeff, Amelia, and Sawyer to spend the afternoon with Bill and Larissa visiting from Chicago. There was also a big tuna.

Ben had just woken from a car nap and took a little time to wake up.

Doing some hunting for Jill's kitty Lilly helped get him going.

Fresh from the car Sawyer took some time to warm to me and my camera.

His smile showed up pretty quickly.

I couldn't move fast enought to keep up with Amelia.

Ben and Bill had fun playing Cirque de Soile

Sarah spent some time with Sawyer and his smile.

The kids eventually all found each other at the ottoman.

Amelia's Valentines Brunch Party

2010-02-14T13:56:00.001-08:00

We spent Valentine's morning at our favorite brunch spot, the Raabs house. In town were Bill and Larissa from Chicago and Jill from Woburn.

It's great getting this group together and when we do, there's always quite an agenda. Today we were celebrating Amelia's third birthday and spending our last day with the Tripps who headed back to Chicago after brunch.

The kids all had a chance to play together and taunt the cats.

The birthday girl.

The happy little brother.

Ben helped himself to the Raab's toys.

Amelia enjoyed opening gifts and a birthday treat.

Bill checked flight status and we all wished the Tripps a safe voyage home. We'll miss you Larissa and Bill. The party quickly broke up for Nap Time.

More to come from the weekend.

Navin, Priya, and Josh Visit!

2010-02-08T18:16:00.000-08:00

Up until the last minute we couldn't convince Ben that his buddy Navin was coming over to play.

Then Navin showed up and couldn't get enough of the "Cotton-Eye Joe" truck.

It's the coolest truck ever.

A bit of wrestling over hitting the magic button.

Navin really showed us his best moves.

Thanks for coming over!

Evening at home

2010-02-03T16:46:00.001-08:00

Sunday Driving

2010-01-31T12:56:00.000-08:00

Truck!

Vroom!

Saturday Morning Dance Party

2010-01-31T12:14:00.000-08:00

We start Saturday's off with a living room dance party. It get's everyone moving in the right direction.

Get down...

Come on Dadda!

Into Stuff

2010-01-31T07:55:00.001-08:00

Alright, so we both are to blame. Ben isn't supposed to get into all the Wii remotes and wires and I'm supposed to stop him.

So far all he knows is that pressing the buttons makes a few blue bars light up.

Hellooowww? Hellooowww? I think I need a tissue.

Close inspection.

Any action on this side?

Am I doing anything? Is it working? Nooooo.

New Photos-New Camera!

2010-01-26T17:52:00.000-08:00

Scored a sweet little Canon Eos Rebel XS from ebay so we could take better pictures. Right out of the box we've got some good ones to share. Before setting out for our Tuesday we experimented a bit.

Nice job posing buddy!

I'll take one of you now Dadda.

Hang in there for just a few more

Almost done

Ok I can see you're bored now. Let's get going.

February 2009 Plaster Fun Times

2010-01-20T03:51:00.000-08:00

Ben is not shrinking. I've just put together a short video when Caitlin, Lindsey, Steph, and Mimi came down last February. We went to Plaster Fun Time! Ben was practicing his babbling and grabbing. February 2010, babbling and grabbing are replaced by many words and running around the house, superfast.

Plaster Fun Times from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

What A Year!

2010-01-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

Looking back at tons of video footage shot during 2009 shows how fast little guys like Ben grow and develop. So the plan is, 2009: A Year to Grow. It'll be a collection of videos from each month of the year.

Here's a teaser from January. Boy, that was a long time ago...

January 2009-Crawling from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Choo Choo Surprise

2010-01-05T18:16:00.000-08:00

No more Christmas tree :(

We took it down New Year's weekend.

In it's place in the corner we set up Ben's new train to distract him from the missing shrubbery.

Choo Choo Surprise from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

First Powder Day

2010-01-03T17:11:00.000-08:00

Ben got the local goods right out the front door today in his first powder day on skis.

Mimi says he's a natural. I can't disagree.

French-Fries from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

No Snow? Schnow-Schnow?

2010-01-03T13:21:00.000-08:00

What's he saying?

Schnowman from Mark Charest on Vimeo.

Daily Video: Headlamp

2009-11-24T19:27:00.000-08:00

A headlamp on a 1 year old is quite entertaining.

Daily Video: Dada Dada!!!

2009-11-23T19:13:00.000-08:00

This is one of many daily chases around the kitchen island. Benjamin was doing the chasing but mostly to get his little hands on the video camera.

Thanksgiving 2008

2009-11-20T20:18:00.000-08:00

Alright, as we go into the holiday season of 2009, I'm posting videos we made during 2008 when we were new parents and Benjamin was a little butterball. This year he could eat a whole butterball turkey. So here's our 2008 Thanksgiving. I hope you enjoy your 2009 Thanksgiving.

Daily Video: Helloooooow

2009-11-19T17:10:00.000-08:00

This is the first of hopefully a string of some short daily videos. Someone really likes to see himself on camera. Hellooooow! Hellooooow! HELLOOOOW!!!

Daily Video: Penguin Frustration

2009-08-07T07:01:00.000-07:00

Ben doesn't deal well when his penguins don't stand to his attention. Sarah snapped this priceless video without him knowing and without cracking up. But feel free.

Gotcha

2009-08-06T19:31:00.000-07:00

He's found a fun hiding place.

Getting back to it

2009-08-06T19:10:00.000-07:00

Alright alright, it's been a busy summer so I'm starting small with a couple new videos. The first one is called Strong Man where Benjamin shows his strength against a maple glazed carrot.

Back at home

2009-04-27T19:56:00.001-07:00

We just spent a weekend away in the Cape and this is what happened when we got home...

Morning Stroll

2009-03-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

I received a grandparental request to show video of Ben playing with one of his new favorite toys, his lion on wheels. It's amazing how good he's quickly gotten. He looks like such a big boy now even though he's still our little guy.

Still working on the Holiday video. Thanks for your patience.

Parent's Day at Wildcat

2009-02-05T19:55:00.000-08:00

Sometimes we actually get out without diapers, bottles, and babies. Last weekend we got out with Kreg and Kate for some fun times riding Wildcat in NH. The weather was great and the snow was soft. Noah and Ben each stayed with their local grandparents. As always, one of the highlights was resting in the warm lodge, beers in hand, and thinking back on the day. For Kreg and I, we thought a lot about how much time we had spent at Wildcat since middle school. Which is also the age we act when we're here. Wildcat is home. Sarah and Kate are now big fans too. We can't wait to carry on the tradition with our little boys in a few years

Tobogganing

2009-02-04T19:54:00.000-08:00

Nana and Pepere gave us Ben's first little sled last weekend in NH. When we got home, the weather was great and we took the little guy on his first ride in the snow. We had a great time playing outside as a family.

A reason to babyproof

2009-01-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

We spent the first weekend after the holidays babyproofing. Here's why!

Cool Shades

2008-12-08T03:14:00.001-08:00

First Bites

2008-11-17T19:18:00.000-08:00

What a milestone. Benjamin's first taste of solid food...well rice cereal anyway. Our sixth month old boy is getting so big.

-charests

Grandparent's Weekend with Nana and Pepere

2008-11-13T03:25:00.000-08:00

We were happy to have Sarah's parents visit us a few weekends ago. Lucky for us they even babysat while we got out to our favorite fall restaurant the Sherborn Inn. Nana and Pepere were very excited to spend time with their little grandson. And he liked Pepere's mustache and Nana's hugs. We can't wait to spend time with all the grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins over Thanksgiving in a few weeks.

Happy Anniversary Mimi and Papa

2008-11-04T14:01:00.000-08:00

You are a loving inspiration to us and we're excited to see you in a few weeks for Thanksgiving.

Love-the Charest's Sarah, Mark, and Ben

Halloween Night

2008-11-03T06:30:00.000-08:00

Boooo.....

What a fun Halloween. It was warm night and Ben met a lot of the neighbors on our street. He liked walking around Spooner Ave. at night and next year he can knock on our neighbors doors by himself.

I waited last minute to carve some pumpkins but deciced I'd pick up time by using my jigsaw. It worked great. Take a look at our scary night.

Busy Fall

2008-10-25T06:49:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy and fun fall. We spent some time outside at the Lookout Farm in Natick with our new friends Bryce, Jack, Cameron, and Dominick and their families. Last weekend we went to Brooklyn to meet Noah and Julian and spend time with the Holts and the Deaners. I wish I had more highlights but here's a little video to show how much fun we've had.

We're hoping to have a lot more fun outings like this in the future with everyone.

-the Charests

We're in NY

2008-10-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

We visited the Holt family this weekend and spent some time with the Deaner's too.