No one is looking the right directions, but they look cute anyway!
I think Simon has a sweet face.
I think Gary has a sweet face too!
This is a bonus from the hospital! I forgot to post it at the time.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Family Photos
No one is looking the right directions, but they look cute anyway! I think Simon has a sweet face. I think Gary has a sweet face too!This is a bonus from the hospital! I forgot to post it at the time.
Nice try!
Today, I got out the camera to take pictures of the kids to post on this site. (Hopefully I find the cable to connect the camera to the computer and actually post them:( )
Jonny kept asking "Can I take a picture Mommy?"
After repeated "no's" I finally said:
No matter how many times you ask, Mommy does not change her mind. Mommy might get mad, but she will not change her mind.
Jonny thought for a minute and then said "Can I take a picture GRANDMA?"
Jonny kept asking "Can I take a picture Mommy?"
After repeated "no's" I finally said:
No matter how many times you ask, Mommy does not change her mind. Mommy might get mad, but she will not change her mind.
Jonny thought for a minute and then said "Can I take a picture GRANDMA?"
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Amelia's Art
Amelia was feeling artsy the other day. She painted a picture of each of the family members. She made the kids big and the grown ups bigger. Each person has a huge hand. That was so that after she carefully cut around each person, she could tape them together holding hands. She also painted a picture of baby Moses for her family night lesson. (Yes, it has been more than a year and she is still teaching us the same Moses lesson every time.)
So she didn't finish her project on Monday. So Tuesday morning, she cut out her pictures and taped them together. It was really cute! I commented on what a nice, happy family picture she made. Then I noticed that she included baby Moses in the group. I asked if Moses was in the family. She said "That's not Moses. That's another baby, just in case."
So she didn't finish her project on Monday. So Tuesday morning, she cut out her pictures and taped them together. It was really cute! I commented on what a nice, happy family picture she made. Then I noticed that she included baby Moses in the group. I asked if Moses was in the family. She said "That's not Moses. That's another baby, just in case."
Still the Scientist
When Jimmy came home from school one day, he noticed my Avent Isis (pump)on the counter next to the sink. A huge grin spread across his face and he exclaimed :What kind of science experiment is that?!
(Amelia explained it to him.)
(Amelia explained it to him.)
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Untitled
When complete strangers see me with the kids, they most likely remark "You have your hands full." I usually respond with a smile and "not really."
But last Thursday's soccer practice was an exception. We were going to be there on time for once! I opened the car doors, let Jimmy run ahead, and started gathering kids, etc. Laiden with Simon, 3 folding chairs, and a diaper bag, Amelia, Jonathan and I crossed the street. When we got to the other side, where the practice was, Jonathan noticed that I grabbed the green and blue chairs and he wanted the black chair. It was in the car. So he did what any almost 2 year old would do. He had a tantrum. And it was big. I stood their waiting for it to blow over for a few minutes. It did not blow over and nothing I said helped. So I put down my things, and sat down to wait. Why didn't I go back for the black chair? Because I am as stubborn as my kids, and having a tantrum is no way to get me to cooperate. So after 15 minutes of coaxing and waiting, I gathered my things again, this time including Jonathan in my haul and slowly made my way to Jimmy's practice. It was across the school from the parking lot. As I made my way, carrying 3 folding chairs, one diaper bag, one almost 2 year old (still screaming and flailing), and an infant, someone stopped to tell me I had my hands full. For once, I agreed. But I didn't say so. They didn't stop to listen.
But last Thursday's soccer practice was an exception. We were going to be there on time for once! I opened the car doors, let Jimmy run ahead, and started gathering kids, etc. Laiden with Simon, 3 folding chairs, and a diaper bag, Amelia, Jonathan and I crossed the street. When we got to the other side, where the practice was, Jonathan noticed that I grabbed the green and blue chairs and he wanted the black chair. It was in the car. So he did what any almost 2 year old would do. He had a tantrum. And it was big. I stood their waiting for it to blow over for a few minutes. It did not blow over and nothing I said helped. So I put down my things, and sat down to wait. Why didn't I go back for the black chair? Because I am as stubborn as my kids, and having a tantrum is no way to get me to cooperate. So after 15 minutes of coaxing and waiting, I gathered my things again, this time including Jonathan in my haul and slowly made my way to Jimmy's practice. It was across the school from the parking lot. As I made my way, carrying 3 folding chairs, one diaper bag, one almost 2 year old (still screaming and flailing), and an infant, someone stopped to tell me I had my hands full. For once, I agreed. But I didn't say so. They didn't stop to listen.
Monday, September 17, 2007
The Mad Scientist
Jimmy has taken the new addition to the family the hardest. I think it has been difficult to adjust to a full school day and a new baby at the same time. He is often crabby about something or other. I get caught up in his moods and I forget to laugh. But really, Jimmy gets wound up about funny things.
The other day, I was putting the kids to bed and Jimmy reminded me that we ran out of time for his science experiment. I told him if he was good for the scriptures we could do the experiment after the prayer. He agreed, so I was surprised when he hit Jonathan with the science experiment book. So I said we had to save the experiment for the next day. Jimmy was really upset about that and spent the next hour sneaking out of bed to attempt the science experiment. When Gary got home, I told him about "Jimmy's Rebellion." Gary thought it was the funniest thing! What kid sneaks out of bed to do science?!
We did do the experiment the following day- put the end of a rolled up paper towel in a glass of colored water and watch the water climb the towel. The kids were suitably impressed.
The other day, I was putting the kids to bed and Jimmy reminded me that we ran out of time for his science experiment. I told him if he was good for the scriptures we could do the experiment after the prayer. He agreed, so I was surprised when he hit Jonathan with the science experiment book. So I said we had to save the experiment for the next day. Jimmy was really upset about that and spent the next hour sneaking out of bed to attempt the science experiment. When Gary got home, I told him about "Jimmy's Rebellion." Gary thought it was the funniest thing! What kid sneaks out of bed to do science?!
We did do the experiment the following day- put the end of a rolled up paper towel in a glass of colored water and watch the water climb the towel. The kids were suitably impressed.
The Woes of a Middle Child
A few days ago, Jonathan said his longest sentence yet.
I was puttering around in the kitchen, putting milk in the freezer for Simon and getting a cup of milk for Jonathan. As I did my business, I rambled about Jonathan and Simon and how they both like milk. I guess it was a bit much for Jonathan to follow because he said:
"I don't want to be called Simon, Mommy."
I was puttering around in the kitchen, putting milk in the freezer for Simon and getting a cup of milk for Jonathan. As I did my business, I rambled about Jonathan and Simon and how they both like milk. I guess it was a bit much for Jonathan to follow because he said:
"I don't want to be called Simon, Mommy."
Thursday, September 06, 2007
The next kiddodiddo
We're so pleased to announce that little Simon Jonathan was born last night at 10:23 PM. He and Tracy are doing just fine. We'll be calling as many relatives as we can over the next two days, but you can call us if you want to get in touch with us sooner.
Here are the scientific details:
Unique identifier: Simon Jonathan S.
Timestamp: September 5, 2007, 10:23 PM
Length: 19"
Mass: 3152 g (that's 6 lb 15.1 oz in Free World units)
Here are the scientific details:
Unique identifier: Simon Jonathan S.
Timestamp: September 5, 2007, 10:23 PM
Length: 19"
Mass: 3152 g (that's 6 lb 15.1 oz in Free World units)
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Jimmy makes me laugh
A few days ago, on his way to his first soccer practice, Jimmy asked if there would be girls and boys on his team. When I told him "no" he started to fan himself vigorously and said "phew." I asked why he did that. He said "because some girls make me feel funny." I got nosy and asked which girls (I couldn't help myself!) He said Cha-Cha, from his kindergarten class and Noelle.
Today Jimmy confided in me that he is a lot like Job.
Jimmy: I am like Job. This week bad things happen to me and I keep the commandments.
Me: That's too bad. What kind of bad things have happened?
Jimmy: I keep losing my plastic teeth.
Me: (trying really hard not to laugh) Yeah, that is too bad. You really like those vampire teeth.
Gary pointed out that it is good for him to liken the scriptures to himself, but I think it's the funniest thing I've heard him say in a few days.
Today Jimmy confided in me that he is a lot like Job.
Jimmy: I am like Job. This week bad things happen to me and I keep the commandments.
Me: That's too bad. What kind of bad things have happened?
Jimmy: I keep losing my plastic teeth.
Me: (trying really hard not to laugh) Yeah, that is too bad. You really like those vampire teeth.
Gary pointed out that it is good for him to liken the scriptures to himself, but I think it's the funniest thing I've heard him say in a few days.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Car Seat Talk
As the time approaches for our new baby to be born, I often wonder if the kids really get it.
Yesterday when I was buckling Jonny into the car, he pointed to the tummy baby's (empty) carseat and said "baby resting in there."
I asked him "Do you think a baby will come to our family and ride in there soon?"
He pointed to my tummy and said "How 'bout that one?"
So I guess Jonny gets it.
Yesterday when I was buckling Jonny into the car, he pointed to the tummy baby's (empty) carseat and said "baby resting in there."
I asked him "Do you think a baby will come to our family and ride in there soon?"
He pointed to my tummy and said "How 'bout that one?"
So I guess Jonny gets it.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Red Alert!
After taking a week to catch up from vacation, we are currentlt preparing the house for the arrival of new baby. He is due next month.
We decided that it would be best to divide the children into 2 bedrooms, instead of cramming all 4 of them in 1 room, using the other as a play room. Jimmy and Jonathan will share one room. Amelia and the new baby will share the other. Since one room will be boy and girl, I decided they should have the green room, and the boys would choose a new color for their room.
Jimmy got pretty creative with the paint simulator machine. He wanted red and green with white polka dots. He wanted it to look like Christmas, with snow balls. He liked it with 2 walls painted one color and 2 walls and the ceiling a different color. Jonathan chose orange with blue. He likes orange a lot.
After sitting on their suggestions for a few weeks, I asked them again about color. They chose red. Not just red, but RED ALERT red. In the brand we bought it goes by "flaming sword." It is not a subtle color. But Gary and I love our kids and want them to be happy, so we bought a couple gallons of flaming sword paint and supplies. We put the kids to bed and got to work. We painted until 1 in the morning. When we woke up, we saw that the paint had not covered very evenly. While Gary was at meetings, I hurriedly applied the remaining paint to one and a half walls. 2 coats looked a little better. The next day, I hauled the kids back to Home Depot for more paint. I told the clerk what I wanted and he tried to talk me out of it. Are you sure? He kept asking. He told me how hard red it to work with (Some people have to go up to 4 coats!) I told him I was in the middle of a project and would he please sell me the paint.
So the kids watched The Muppet Movie while I added more flaming sword to the boys room. I finished with the second coat and started on the third. I ran out of paint again. I left the paint to dry and called it quits for a few hours. We then journeyed back to Home Depot where again they tried to talk me out of the paint, I persisted and we returned home, not without incident. Amelia's a little jealous of the attention being paid to the boys room. (Once it's done, I'm going to make her a little pink canopy or curtains for her bed.)
So after dinner and family home evening, Gary and I applied the third and final coat of paint. It looks good. We left the ceiling, baseboards, and closet door white. We waited a couple a while and then started to peel off the tape. There were so many coats of paint dried onto it that it peeled paint off the walls when it came off. So now, the boys have a red room that needs lots of touch up work.
I decided that if we were going to have a room in our house the color of a flaming sword, it would be the best flaming sword colored room you ever saw. It's not quite there yet, but if you ignore the edges, it looks good. Once we touch up the walls where the bed goes, we'll put up the bunk bed and get the boys moved in. We may even get around to posting a picture of it, but don't hold your breath. I always intend to post pictures but it never happens!
We decided that it would be best to divide the children into 2 bedrooms, instead of cramming all 4 of them in 1 room, using the other as a play room. Jimmy and Jonathan will share one room. Amelia and the new baby will share the other. Since one room will be boy and girl, I decided they should have the green room, and the boys would choose a new color for their room.
Jimmy got pretty creative with the paint simulator machine. He wanted red and green with white polka dots. He wanted it to look like Christmas, with snow balls. He liked it with 2 walls painted one color and 2 walls and the ceiling a different color. Jonathan chose orange with blue. He likes orange a lot.
After sitting on their suggestions for a few weeks, I asked them again about color. They chose red. Not just red, but RED ALERT red. In the brand we bought it goes by "flaming sword." It is not a subtle color. But Gary and I love our kids and want them to be happy, so we bought a couple gallons of flaming sword paint and supplies. We put the kids to bed and got to work. We painted until 1 in the morning. When we woke up, we saw that the paint had not covered very evenly. While Gary was at meetings, I hurriedly applied the remaining paint to one and a half walls. 2 coats looked a little better. The next day, I hauled the kids back to Home Depot for more paint. I told the clerk what I wanted and he tried to talk me out of it. Are you sure? He kept asking. He told me how hard red it to work with (Some people have to go up to 4 coats!) I told him I was in the middle of a project and would he please sell me the paint.
So the kids watched The Muppet Movie while I added more flaming sword to the boys room. I finished with the second coat and started on the third. I ran out of paint again. I left the paint to dry and called it quits for a few hours. We then journeyed back to Home Depot where again they tried to talk me out of the paint, I persisted and we returned home, not without incident. Amelia's a little jealous of the attention being paid to the boys room. (Once it's done, I'm going to make her a little pink canopy or curtains for her bed.)
So after dinner and family home evening, Gary and I applied the third and final coat of paint. It looks good. We left the ceiling, baseboards, and closet door white. We waited a couple a while and then started to peel off the tape. There were so many coats of paint dried onto it that it peeled paint off the walls when it came off. So now, the boys have a red room that needs lots of touch up work.
I decided that if we were going to have a room in our house the color of a flaming sword, it would be the best flaming sword colored room you ever saw. It's not quite there yet, but if you ignore the edges, it looks good. Once we touch up the walls where the bed goes, we'll put up the bunk bed and get the boys moved in. We may even get around to posting a picture of it, but don't hold your breath. I always intend to post pictures but it never happens!
Our Vacation: Jimmy's Version
Test Track. I really liked Test Track because it is so fast adn fun adn cool int he ice chamber. The heat chamber, especially the barrier test and what else I liked about it: our cars go so fast.
Splash Mountain it was scary adn I also really liked it when we took a wrong turn. Instead of going to save Br'er Rabbit we ended up at Fox's house and then we went down a few tiny hills. Then we went down a giant big hill with a big splash! I thought Splash Mountain was taller at Disney World, but it was taller at Disneyland.
I really like Soarin' because of the golf ball, the orange smells, and it feels like you are flying. It's fantastic!
(at the beach) Me and one of my friends went wave fighting and body surfing. When my friend told me there were baby sharks out there, I was scared.
Muppets 3D is so funny. I wish Fozzie Bear said "Woka Woka Woka!"
Splash Mountain it was scary adn I also really liked it when we took a wrong turn. Instead of going to save Br'er Rabbit we ended up at Fox's house and then we went down a few tiny hills. Then we went down a giant big hill with a big splash! I thought Splash Mountain was taller at Disney World, but it was taller at Disneyland.
I really like Soarin' because of the golf ball, the orange smells, and it feels like you are flying. It's fantastic!
(at the beach) Me and one of my friends went wave fighting and body surfing. When my friend told me there were baby sharks out there, I was scared.
Muppets 3D is so funny. I wish Fozzie Bear said "Woka Woka Woka!"
Our Vacation: Amelia's Version
I liked Winnie Pooh's Honey Pots because of his weird dream. There was giant things and also a jack in the box.
Soarin' because it feels like you are flying and the orange smell (she rode Soarin' 5 times!)
Snow White's Scary Adventure because of the evil trees, the apple and the crocodiles.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant because of the mouse and the color of the elephant was yellow.
Peter Pan's Flight because of everything and the boat. It was yellow too, just like the elephant. Me and Jimmy rode in the yellow boat.
I liked It's a Small World because of all the things. I saw lots of things and the flowers saying "good bye" to you. They said good bye in lots of different languages.
And I even liked Test Track because of everything.
I just loved Splash Mountain. I like Splash Mountain because of everything.
Tower of Terror. I went up and down and when I went up to the windows my hair went up because of all the wind and I felt like I would bounce out of my seat. I was holding Dad's hand and that stopped me from bouncing out. (Gary said she DID bounce out of her seat, about an inch, before the safety belt caught her!)
In the Muppets 3D we watched at Disney World, there was a remote control pie!
Soarin' because it feels like you are flying and the orange smell (she rode Soarin' 5 times!)
Snow White's Scary Adventure because of the evil trees, the apple and the crocodiles.
Dumbo the Flying Elephant because of the mouse and the color of the elephant was yellow.
Peter Pan's Flight because of everything and the boat. It was yellow too, just like the elephant. Me and Jimmy rode in the yellow boat.
I liked It's a Small World because of all the things. I saw lots of things and the flowers saying "good bye" to you. They said good bye in lots of different languages.
And I even liked Test Track because of everything.
I just loved Splash Mountain. I like Splash Mountain because of everything.
Tower of Terror. I went up and down and when I went up to the windows my hair went up because of all the wind and I felt like I would bounce out of my seat. I was holding Dad's hand and that stopped me from bouncing out. (Gary said she DID bounce out of her seat, about an inch, before the safety belt caught her!)
In the Muppets 3D we watched at Disney World, there was a remote control pie!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Our Vacation: Jonathan's Version
Water. Swimming pool. Get wet swimming.
Daisy, Minnie, Kudo (Pluto)
Cars! Love it! (about the Indy Speedway- think Autopia)
Darth Vader. Darth Vader favorite. (What does Darth Vader look like?) Kind of orange. We saw Darth Vader at Disney MGM.
Mickey Mouse movie favorite (Mickey's Philharmagic 3 D movie at Magic Kingdom)
Daisy, Minnie, Kudo (Pluto)
Cars! Love it! (about the Indy Speedway- think Autopia)
Darth Vader. Darth Vader favorite. (What does Darth Vader look like?) Kind of orange. We saw Darth Vader at Disney MGM.
Mickey Mouse movie favorite (Mickey's Philharmagic 3 D movie at Magic Kingdom)
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Upcoming Trip
We'll leaving for Florida in a few hours.
According to Amelia:
The best part of going to Disney World is going on rides and pulling your suitcase.
According to Amelia:
The best part of going to Disney World is going on rides and pulling your suitcase.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Our Harry Potter Party
We have really enjoyed the Harry Potter book series and eagerly awaited the mail delivery Saturday, for the new book. To celebrate, we threw our own little Harry Potter party. Each family member invented a magic trick to perform and made witch hat cookies.
Gary went first. His trick was to pick up a piece of ice with a piece of "string" using salt. It was very scientific. Unfortunately, all we had was yarn. This trick works well with string, but not yarn. He came up with an alternate and performed again at the end.
I went next. I made a top hat out of construction paper and pulled a scarf from the empty hat.
Jimmy did a trick with his pocket. First he had Amelia check his pocket. There was nothing in there. Then we all closed our eyes and counted to 3. When we opened our eyes, she checked again and there was a K'Nex block there!
Amelia brought lots of parts to the magic show- the directions for her Doodle Bear, a barrette, sunglasses, and a small crab towel. Then she said "Mom how do I do the trick?" I had no idea what she was talking about, but quickly came up with the "magic disappearing towel trick." We spread out the items and put the towel over them. Then we said a magic word. Then I lifted off the towel, carefully holding one of the items underneath to make it disappear. She was amazed! She tried to do the trick herself. She was pretty frustrated until I showed her how.
Gary helped Jonathan do a trick. Everyone closed their eyes and counted to 3. When we opened our eyes, Jonathan was gone and Gary shirt had suddenly become very large and lumpy! We all got a big laugh out of that one.
Gary finished it up with a truly amazing card trick. It fooled us all.
We got out the witch hat treats and turned on Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone for the kids and the grown ups read the newest book together.
Gary went first. His trick was to pick up a piece of ice with a piece of "string" using salt. It was very scientific. Unfortunately, all we had was yarn. This trick works well with string, but not yarn. He came up with an alternate and performed again at the end.
I went next. I made a top hat out of construction paper and pulled a scarf from the empty hat.
Jimmy did a trick with his pocket. First he had Amelia check his pocket. There was nothing in there. Then we all closed our eyes and counted to 3. When we opened our eyes, she checked again and there was a K'Nex block there!
Amelia brought lots of parts to the magic show- the directions for her Doodle Bear, a barrette, sunglasses, and a small crab towel. Then she said "Mom how do I do the trick?" I had no idea what she was talking about, but quickly came up with the "magic disappearing towel trick." We spread out the items and put the towel over them. Then we said a magic word. Then I lifted off the towel, carefully holding one of the items underneath to make it disappear. She was amazed! She tried to do the trick herself. She was pretty frustrated until I showed her how.
Gary helped Jonathan do a trick. Everyone closed their eyes and counted to 3. When we opened our eyes, Jonathan was gone and Gary shirt had suddenly become very large and lumpy! We all got a big laugh out of that one.
Gary finished it up with a truly amazing card trick. It fooled us all.
We got out the witch hat treats and turned on Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone for the kids and the grown ups read the newest book together.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Jimmy's First Guess...
...at why we don't go to the "Owl Restaurant" (Hooters.)
I quote:
I was driving by and I saw someone coming out of the Owl Restaurant* and they had a drink called "Caffeine Drinkers" and they had TWO Caffeine Drinkers. Caffeine Drinkers comes in three flavors; chocolate, banana, and organic.
*We used to drive by Hooters (and their billboards) often when we lived in State College
I quote:
I was driving by and I saw someone coming out of the Owl Restaurant* and they had a drink called "Caffeine Drinkers" and they had TWO Caffeine Drinkers. Caffeine Drinkers comes in three flavors; chocolate, banana, and organic.
*We used to drive by Hooters (and their billboards) often when we lived in State College
Jonny's first prayer
It's probably been two weeks now since Jonathan said his first prayer. It was a dinner prayer and he said it all by himself. He said:
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you food. Please help Power Rangers. Jesus Christ Amen.
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you food. Please help Power Rangers. Jesus Christ Amen.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Jimmy's bike riding skills
Jimmy is finally mastering his bike, without training wheels! He "only rides it downhill, on the grass so it doesn't hurt when I fall."
When he does rides on the pavement, he coasts, putting his feet down when he feels tippy. I don't think it'll be long before he gains confidence on the pavement as well. I am proud of him for being brave enough to take on the bike!
*You may ask Why not training wheels? They encouraged him to ride crooked and tip over more. That is why he called his bike "the un-tip-able Titanic." He always felt a sense of DOOM when attempting a ride.
When he does rides on the pavement, he coasts, putting his feet down when he feels tippy. I don't think it'll be long before he gains confidence on the pavement as well. I am proud of him for being brave enough to take on the bike!
*You may ask Why not training wheels? They encouraged him to ride crooked and tip over more. That is why he called his bike "the un-tip-able Titanic." He always felt a sense of DOOM when attempting a ride.
Amelia's Rock Band
Just so you know, Amelia is starting a rock band. It will have 7 girls in it. "Daddy will be the band leader (but only for practices.")
Amelia will play the guitar and little cousin Sara (as opposed to big Cousin Sarah, who is my age) will play the harp. I hope she has a harp!
Amelia will play the guitar and little cousin Sara (as opposed to big Cousin Sarah, who is my age) will play the harp. I hope she has a harp!
Jonathan's Happy Dance
So I tried to call my mom to wish her a happy birthday while I was cooking dinner. I absent mindedly left the ingredient cabinet open while I did worked on my pancakes. Jonathan came along and rummaged through and selected a full box of cocoa powder. I don't know what I was thinking, but I let him walk out of the kitchen with it.
As I came out of the kitchen, I saw Jonathan dump the entire box of cocoa powder on the dining room floor (carpet.) He did a happy dance on top of the powder. He looked just like Harpo Marx dancing in the lemonade. He was so full of joy at that moment!
Now our carpet looks about 30 years old. Whoever heard of carpeting a dining area ?! I'll have to haul out the carpet cleaner sooner than I anticipated!
As I came out of the kitchen, I saw Jonathan dump the entire box of cocoa powder on the dining room floor (carpet.) He did a happy dance on top of the powder. He looked just like Harpo Marx dancing in the lemonade. He was so full of joy at that moment!
Now our carpet looks about 30 years old. Whoever heard of carpeting a dining area ?! I'll have to haul out the carpet cleaner sooner than I anticipated!
Cool Link
Here is a link to a site that I frequent when looking for activities for the kids. I really like their print out work sheets- mazes, word searches, etc. They also have fun custom chore charts.
http://www.dltk-kids.com/
http://www.dltk-kids.com/
Friday, June 29, 2007
What Should I Be?
At dinner a few nights ago, Amelia said "I don't know what I want to be when I grow up. There are too many things to choose from. I need your help."
So I asked her which things she was trying to choose from.
"Pirate, mom or cheerleader. But a good pirate, not a bad one."
So I asked her which things she was trying to choose from.
"Pirate, mom or cheerleader. But a good pirate, not a bad one."
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Bananas and Bandaids
The other day I was getting the kids ready for the pool and the big kids ran to hide because they don't like sunscreen. Not Jonathan. He came running for "nanas." The sunscreen in banana scented and he loves the smell. As I put the sunscreen on him, he said over and over "tickled, nanas!" meaning he felt like he was being tickled by bananas!
He tripped and scraped his knee yesterday (twice, so the scab was scraped off this time) and Gary put a bandaid over it. Jonny pointed to his knee "see bandaid" he told anyone who would listen. This morning, he has been going around, holding his pants leg up and telling everyone again "see bandaid!" I know this isn't his first bandaid, but he sure is proud of it anyway.
He tripped and scraped his knee yesterday (twice, so the scab was scraped off this time) and Gary put a bandaid over it. Jonny pointed to his knee "see bandaid" he told anyone who would listen. This morning, he has been going around, holding his pants leg up and telling everyone again "see bandaid!" I know this isn't his first bandaid, but he sure is proud of it anyway.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
The Slumber Party
For the last two weeks, Jimmy had been trying to talk Jonathan into a sleep over in his bunk bed. At first, I resisted, using the "but it's a school night" excuse. But school's out now and once again, Jimmy invited Jonathan over for a slumber party. (they share a room already, the bunk bed and crib aren't that far apart) Jonathan agreed to try sleeping in the big kid bed. I put up a safety rail (thanks freecycle!) and tucked the kids in bed. If Jonathan is still in the bed by the time I've finished typing this, I'll be really surprised!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
First Day of Summer Vacation
School vacation started today, technically. It was Jimmy's last day of school.
Upon arrival at home, he encouraged Jonathan and Amelia to act like they did when he was at school.
He kind of moped around a lot, but other than that it was a very normal day. Right before dinner, he said, truly concerned "Mom? Why are you so busy?"
The kids made some summer goals, as a family night activity. They want to go running in the morning and exercise like Rocky (Gary showed them the interesting parts of Rocky before he left on his trip.) And they want to learn karate.
Upon arrival at home, he encouraged Jonathan and Amelia to act like they did when he was at school.
He kind of moped around a lot, but other than that it was a very normal day. Right before dinner, he said, truly concerned "Mom? Why are you so busy?"
The kids made some summer goals, as a family night activity. They want to go running in the morning and exercise like Rocky (Gary showed them the interesting parts of Rocky before he left on his trip.) And they want to learn karate.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Family Fishing at Frankin Park
Last weekend, Gary and I took the kids of a fun, family fishing day hosted by Loudoun County Parks. It was my very first fishing trip. It was the kids first day of fishing as well. I have always thought that I would enjoy fishing.
When we arrived at Franklin Park, there were representatives from the fish and game department. They had rows fishing poles just waiting for families like ours to show up. They had a cooler full of nightcrawlers in neat little plastic containers. We helped ourselves and chose a spot to begin our adventure.
As we walked around the lake, we were greeted by a man in a shirt that had sponsors all over it. He had his photographer take our pictures and gave us each a do- rag and an autographed card. It wasn't until later that I realized that he was the one on the autographed card. I guess I am not so observant.
When we got to our chosen location, we opened up our container of worms and looked at each other. "this is why I used Power Bait." Gary muttered. I did not think I would be squeamish about worms.
(I never was, until we lived in State College, the Wormiest City in the World. Every time it rains, the worms come out. Not cute little garden worms like I remember growing up. Foot- long, wriggling, slimy, gross- looking worms. They cover the pavement. Since it rains A LOT there are always worms on the sidewalks and especially in parking lots. I lived in fear that I would get a flat tire and have to lie down in the worms to change the tire.)
Back to fishing... Gary bravely reached into the container of nightcrawlers and ripped off a one inch piece of worm for each pole, (as we had been instructed) and showed us how to put it on the hook. Then we practiced casting. This is particularly hazardous with 6 year olds who think they know what they are doing.
We got the hang of casting and watched other kids walking by with their catch, taking it to the scales for the fishing contest. The our kids didn't like the idea of waiting for the fish to bite. The kept reeling in seaweed. And we kept breaking off one inch pieces of worms to reload the hooks. I didn't get brave enough to touch them with my hands. I threaded them on to the hook in the container and then used a rock to chop them off.
I wasn't so good at casting and once smashed the floating ball thing. Jimmy and I took the pole back to the area where we picked it up, to see what could be done. The man in charge said "Just put it over there." and pointed to a pile of rods with tangled line, smashed floating things and assorted other problems. We selected a new rod and returned to the rest of the family. When we got back, Amelia told us about a fish she had seen swimming in the water.
Gary got a bite on his hook. This was very exciting! It got away. I'm sure he could give you the dramatic details of that experience.
About this time, the Amelia's fish came back. It was brown and about 5 inches long. I watched it for a few minutes and realized it was sick or something. It would have been easy to catch it with a soda cup or even bear hands, but we were fishing. We were going to do it "right." We dangled hookes with worms in front of it. I think I even touched it with a worm. It just hovered there in the water, trying to ignore us, or maybe just trying to stay alive.
We decided to turn in our poles and head over to the free lunch. We enjoyed hot dogs/hamburgers, beans, and chips (between bathroom breaks, Thank you Gary for taking care of that) and then rushed home to clean up and head over to cousin Betsy's wedding reception. (We got there in time to say hello, watch them drive off in a "tastefully decorated" car, throw rice and help clean up. It was nice to see relatives, even briefly.)
When we arrived at Franklin Park, there were representatives from the fish and game department. They had rows fishing poles just waiting for families like ours to show up. They had a cooler full of nightcrawlers in neat little plastic containers. We helped ourselves and chose a spot to begin our adventure.
As we walked around the lake, we were greeted by a man in a shirt that had sponsors all over it. He had his photographer take our pictures and gave us each a do- rag and an autographed card. It wasn't until later that I realized that he was the one on the autographed card. I guess I am not so observant.
When we got to our chosen location, we opened up our container of worms and looked at each other. "this is why I used Power Bait." Gary muttered. I did not think I would be squeamish about worms.
(I never was, until we lived in State College, the Wormiest City in the World. Every time it rains, the worms come out. Not cute little garden worms like I remember growing up. Foot- long, wriggling, slimy, gross- looking worms. They cover the pavement. Since it rains A LOT there are always worms on the sidewalks and especially in parking lots. I lived in fear that I would get a flat tire and have to lie down in the worms to change the tire.)
Back to fishing... Gary bravely reached into the container of nightcrawlers and ripped off a one inch piece of worm for each pole, (as we had been instructed) and showed us how to put it on the hook. Then we practiced casting. This is particularly hazardous with 6 year olds who think they know what they are doing.
We got the hang of casting and watched other kids walking by with their catch, taking it to the scales for the fishing contest. The our kids didn't like the idea of waiting for the fish to bite. The kept reeling in seaweed. And we kept breaking off one inch pieces of worms to reload the hooks. I didn't get brave enough to touch them with my hands. I threaded them on to the hook in the container and then used a rock to chop them off.
I wasn't so good at casting and once smashed the floating ball thing. Jimmy and I took the pole back to the area where we picked it up, to see what could be done. The man in charge said "Just put it over there." and pointed to a pile of rods with tangled line, smashed floating things and assorted other problems. We selected a new rod and returned to the rest of the family. When we got back, Amelia told us about a fish she had seen swimming in the water.
Gary got a bite on his hook. This was very exciting! It got away. I'm sure he could give you the dramatic details of that experience.
About this time, the Amelia's fish came back. It was brown and about 5 inches long. I watched it for a few minutes and realized it was sick or something. It would have been easy to catch it with a soda cup or even bear hands, but we were fishing. We were going to do it "right." We dangled hookes with worms in front of it. I think I even touched it with a worm. It just hovered there in the water, trying to ignore us, or maybe just trying to stay alive.
We decided to turn in our poles and head over to the free lunch. We enjoyed hot dogs/hamburgers, beans, and chips (between bathroom breaks, Thank you Gary for taking care of that) and then rushed home to clean up and head over to cousin Betsy's wedding reception. (We got there in time to say hello, watch them drive off in a "tastefully decorated" car, throw rice and help clean up. It was nice to see relatives, even briefly.)
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Beans! Yum Yum!
Yesterday, Jimmy and I noticed green beans growing on his bean plant that he sprouted from a seed. We picked 2 and threw them in with some beans I was planning to serve with dinner. Suddenly, everyone loved green beans!
Hopefully, the same magic will work when the zucchini and summer squash are ready for harvest. (the kids asked for those, although Jimmy likes zucchini for the zucchini bread and Amelia likes summer squash for its color)
Hopefully, the same magic will work when the zucchini and summer squash are ready for harvest. (the kids asked for those, although Jimmy likes zucchini for the zucchini bread and Amelia likes summer squash for its color)
How old are you?
In the last few days, Jonathan has been telling a little joke. Every time I ask him "How are you?" he thinks I am asking "How old are you?" He responds "6!"
(Just like his big brother.)
(Just like his big brother.)
Monday, June 04, 2007
Hmmm
Well it's been a while since I posted anything and I guess I'd better update you all on the kiddodiddos!
Jimmy's soccer season ended on Saturday. He learned the game well and aggressively attacks the ball. He learned to jump up after he is knocked down and even took a ball to the stomach in stride (something that unnerved him earlier in the season.) It fun to watch him play, but even more fun to listen. If things are going well, you can hear him laughing as he runs.
As the school year winds down (12 days) he looks forward to calling himself a 1st grader! He learned the kindergarten skills well and improved his handwriting by leaps and bounds.
Last month, he sprouted beans in a plastic bag when they studied the plant cycle and he brought them home. We planted the beans under our tomato plant- I didn't think they'd do well enough for their own pot. Boy was I wrong. Two days ago, Jimmy and I carefully repotted the beans into a pot of their own. They love the extra room. While we don't know what kind of beans they are, Jimmy says they were white. We should find out soon- they have pretty white blossoms on them.
Amelia has been maturing over the last week or two. She has been tending a miniature rose bush (purchased with the intent of teaching her a little responsibility) and is a very attentive gardener. She checks the dirt every day and looks for bugs on it and carries it to sunny locations. She has managed to stay in sacrament meeting for the last 2 weeks with out any behavior issues, which considerably eases family stress at church. (Apparently the single sisters in the ward were getting great entertainment counting the number of trips she makes to the foyer.) She gets a lot of laughs (unintentionally) in primary, particularly during sharing time. One day the primary president asked the kids if they saw general conference. She raised her hand, bouncing in her chair. "I did. I saw general conference! It was BORING!!!!" Another week, Jimmy was chosen to be in a demonstration and Amelia clapped and jumped up and down, so excited to see her brother up in the front. Imagine her reaction when her name was called too! (the names for volunteers are randomly selected from a jar) She ran to the front and hugged Jimmy, jumping up and down. She looked like someone who just won a huge prize on the Price is Right! (I don't think she has seen the show) She sings loud when she knows the words. "The Sunbeams may sing loud but they don't sound good," he commented loudly after practicing the Father's Day song. Her enthusiasm for life is fun.
Jonathan loves Nursery and his teachers. Yesterday, I asked him to point them out in sacrament meeting, hoping to distract him for a bit. He knew immediately where they were. They are grandmas who really enjoy the kids and the kids love them back.
He is excited about airplanes and helicopters, lady bugs, and swimming. He likes to use his musical potty chair. He used to use it more, because it was fun. Then he figured out that grown ups like it when kids use the potty and he stopped using it. It was only fun when it was his choice. So I just ignore the potty now and he uses it when it suits his whim, usually once or twice a day. He loves collecting rocks and sticks and flowers. It is fun to see which he prefers. Based on his collecting style, he holds on to rocks until he finds a flower. Then he drops one rock to pick a flower and he carries both around until he finds a good stick. He drops everything for a good stick. He enjoys finding the same sticks over and over because I have a firm rule- no sticks in the house. We have a jar on the counter for all of the weeds and flowers the kids pick for me. I will miss the crazy bouquets when the kids are older. I know they won't treat me to them forever.
Jimmy's soccer season ended on Saturday. He learned the game well and aggressively attacks the ball. He learned to jump up after he is knocked down and even took a ball to the stomach in stride (something that unnerved him earlier in the season.) It fun to watch him play, but even more fun to listen. If things are going well, you can hear him laughing as he runs.
As the school year winds down (12 days) he looks forward to calling himself a 1st grader! He learned the kindergarten skills well and improved his handwriting by leaps and bounds.
Last month, he sprouted beans in a plastic bag when they studied the plant cycle and he brought them home. We planted the beans under our tomato plant- I didn't think they'd do well enough for their own pot. Boy was I wrong. Two days ago, Jimmy and I carefully repotted the beans into a pot of their own. They love the extra room. While we don't know what kind of beans they are, Jimmy says they were white. We should find out soon- they have pretty white blossoms on them.
Amelia has been maturing over the last week or two. She has been tending a miniature rose bush (purchased with the intent of teaching her a little responsibility) and is a very attentive gardener. She checks the dirt every day and looks for bugs on it and carries it to sunny locations. She has managed to stay in sacrament meeting for the last 2 weeks with out any behavior issues, which considerably eases family stress at church. (Apparently the single sisters in the ward were getting great entertainment counting the number of trips she makes to the foyer.) She gets a lot of laughs (unintentionally) in primary, particularly during sharing time. One day the primary president asked the kids if they saw general conference. She raised her hand, bouncing in her chair. "I did. I saw general conference! It was BORING!!!!" Another week, Jimmy was chosen to be in a demonstration and Amelia clapped and jumped up and down, so excited to see her brother up in the front. Imagine her reaction when her name was called too! (the names for volunteers are randomly selected from a jar) She ran to the front and hugged Jimmy, jumping up and down. She looked like someone who just won a huge prize on the Price is Right! (I don't think she has seen the show) She sings loud when she knows the words. "The Sunbeams may sing loud but they don't sound good," he commented loudly after practicing the Father's Day song. Her enthusiasm for life is fun.
Jonathan loves Nursery and his teachers. Yesterday, I asked him to point them out in sacrament meeting, hoping to distract him for a bit. He knew immediately where they were. They are grandmas who really enjoy the kids and the kids love them back.
He is excited about airplanes and helicopters, lady bugs, and swimming. He likes to use his musical potty chair. He used to use it more, because it was fun. Then he figured out that grown ups like it when kids use the potty and he stopped using it. It was only fun when it was his choice. So I just ignore the potty now and he uses it when it suits his whim, usually once or twice a day. He loves collecting rocks and sticks and flowers. It is fun to see which he prefers. Based on his collecting style, he holds on to rocks until he finds a flower. Then he drops one rock to pick a flower and he carries both around until he finds a good stick. He drops everything for a good stick. He enjoys finding the same sticks over and over because I have a firm rule- no sticks in the house. We have a jar on the counter for all of the weeds and flowers the kids pick for me. I will miss the crazy bouquets when the kids are older. I know they won't treat me to them forever.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
I CAN'T READ
"I can't read" has been Amelia's complaint for some time. She CAN read 2 and 3 letter words, but she is easily discouraged and gives up quickly. Today she read the first few pages of HOP ON POP to me! She really liked the silly rhymes. Hopefully this book will give her some confidence and help her realize that she CAN read, and practice will help.
A Ladies Man
Today we had friends over for a playdate. I turned on some music for the kids to dance to and when a slow song came on, Jonathan marched over to one year old Laina and gave her a BIG kiss!
Loose Tooth!
Jimmy's big announcement two days ago: I have a loose tooth!
This is something that he has been eagerly anticipating for sometime. He says it feels like it will fall out anytime. It's not too wiggly yet, but I can see the new tooth through the gum underneath.
This is something that he has been eagerly anticipating for sometime. He says it feels like it will fall out anytime. It's not too wiggly yet, but I can see the new tooth through the gum underneath.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Superhero Rumours
As you all know by now from reading a previous entry, we have a superhero living at our house named Crismon Shedds. His marquee superpower is that he knows everything. We have a few updates on Mr. Shedds. One is a clarification, and the other is new information.
Clarification: the name Crismon Shedds comes from a misreading of the video game Crimson Skies at that vaunted center of high culture, Chuck E. Cheese.
New Information: Jimmy looked down a storm drain and said he was looking for Crismon Shedds. When asked to clarify, Jimmy explained that Crismon Shedds is a shape shifter who likes to flush himself down the toilet. He (Jimmy) did not specify whether Shedds' brother, Crismon Shredds, is also a self-flushing shapeshifter.
That is all.
Clarification: the name Crismon Shedds comes from a misreading of the video game Crimson Skies at that vaunted center of high culture, Chuck E. Cheese.
New Information: Jimmy looked down a storm drain and said he was looking for Crismon Shedds. When asked to clarify, Jimmy explained that Crismon Shedds is a shape shifter who likes to flush himself down the toilet. He (Jimmy) did not specify whether Shedds' brother, Crismon Shredds, is also a self-flushing shapeshifter.
That is all.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Jonathan Save Sucker Instead of Face
Last week (or maybe the week before) Jimmy's bus driver gave each kid a sucker as they got off the bus. He is a nice man and he had extra suckers for the siblings that wait at the bus stops. Jimmy, Amelia, and Jonathan were happily walking home, carrying their suckers (to enjoy after lunch) when Jonathan tripped. He fell flat on his face and the only move he made was to protect his sucker by hugging it to his chest as he fell. When he stood up, I could see scraped knuckles and a big scrape on his forehead. I expected tears. Instead, he triumphantly held up his sucker. "Suckoo" he proclaimed, to assure us that the sucker had made it through unscathed.
And speaking of yummy things, Jonathan decided to fix himself a glass of Qwik today. He got out the overly large container and a mug and proceeded to scoop out and drink a glass of the powder! I came across him on the floor next to the table enjoying his treat.
And speaking of yummy things, Jonathan decided to fix himself a glass of Qwik today. He got out the overly large container and a mug and proceeded to scoop out and drink a glass of the powder! I came across him on the floor next to the table enjoying his treat.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Cast off!
Jimmy got his cast off this week! Life is certainly easier for him with it off. For one, he does not need to wrap his arm in bubble wrap for soccer practices and games anymore. And he can bathe himself again. Mostly, I think he enjoys being free to move his arm as he pleases.
Amelia's birthday
"YIPEE! I'M FOUR!" Amelia shouted as she barrelled down the stairs on the morning of her birthday. She looks forward to learning to read more words now that she is four.
Kidwell Farm
Earlier this week, I took the kids to Kidwell Farm in nearby Fairfax County. We met up with friends and had a lovely (but chilly) time looking at all the new babies that were born this spring. There were twin sheep that were one week old (one black and one white,) piglets (black and white striped) and a baby goat that was hiding behind the woodwork and couldn't been seen. The kids were most fascinated with the month old sheep. They were very active. A worker went into their pen and picked one of the lambs up for the kids to pat. Jonathan got very excited. "Doggy!" He exclaimed. "No," I explained. "That's a sheep." Upon hearing my reply, he eagerly began to growl and roar at the sheep!
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Tidewater Fun
Last week during Jimmy's spring break, we took a trip to Virginia's Tidewater region. We visited the National Maritime Center , which is in Norfolk. But first, we spent two days in Colonial Williamsburg, which is in (get ready) Williamsburg.
Colonial Williamsburg is a mostly rebuilt rendition of what Williamsburg was like when it was the colonial capital, and original state capital, of Virginia. Jamestown, where the British first landed in 1607, and Yorktown, where the Americans won a decisive battle, are right down the road. Yorktown, Jamestown, and Williamsburg make up America's Historic Triangle. There are big highway signs to that effect. I was just glad to be in America's Historic Triangle and not Bermuda's.
Williamsburg is important mainly because of who all was there together in the House of Burgesses at the same time: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry, to name a few. They, along with the Adamses in Massachusetts, more or less started the American Revolution.
The surrounding city of Williamsburg is quite modern and touristy, but the historic area is old-fashioned and touristy. Like the Novell campus, Colonial Williamsburg (CW) is preserved and staffed by a non-profit corporation. But unlike the Novell campus, CW is very quainte.
Upon arrival, the kids were convicted of disturbing the peace and got the pillory:
After being released, they got to work in a colonial corn field with hoes:
We visited the very regal Governor's Palace, home of the crown-appointed and colonist-reviled governor of Virginia:
The palace was dull for the kids, but then there was a girl's bedroom, which Amelia enjoyed seeing (you can't read it in this photo, but Amelia's free badge says "I Am Under 6"):
Jonathan had a great time too, despite this photo:
Each afternoon at Williamsburg, they hold a regularly scheduled revolution for a couple of hours. You stand in the street and see authentic characters talk about the British abuses, the war, etc. This photo shows Tracy enjoying the revolution (the boy in the orange is Jimmy; the girl in the stripes is *not* Amelia):
At the end of the revolution on our second Williamsburg day, they invited able-bodied men to join the march to the courthouse before moving on to battle at Yorktown. How could I refuse? (That's me in the green colonial shorts and white colonial baseball hat.)
Civilians, including children, were invited to march behind, but they had to provide their own weaponry if desired. Luckily, Jimmy had chosen out an authentic Pirate Rifle the day before from the colonial gift shoppe (that's him in the yellow shirt; his glow-in-the-dark cast is hiding behind the more authentic soldier):
At the end of the day, we stopped for one last picture before heading back to the colonial parking lot:
The next day, after our last night at the posh Travelodge Williamsburg, we headed to Norfolk. The proper southern way to say "Norfolk" sounds quite impolite; as a squeamish Western prude, I incorrectly say it like it looks: "Nor-Folk." Whatever its pronunciation, Norfolk has several mermaid statues:
It also has a great place called the National Maritime Center, which includes Nauticus, a wonderful museum about all things related to boating, and the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, a free U.S. Navy museum that includes the U.S.S. Wisconsin. I didn't realize the place would hold our attention for the entire day, but it did.
We got to tour the outside of the U.S.S. Wisconsin battleship:
Colonial Williamsburg is a mostly rebuilt rendition of what Williamsburg was like when it was the colonial capital, and original state capital, of Virginia. Jamestown, where the British first landed in 1607, and Yorktown, where the Americans won a decisive battle, are right down the road. Yorktown, Jamestown, and Williamsburg make up America's Historic Triangle. There are big highway signs to that effect. I was just glad to be in America's Historic Triangle and not Bermuda's.
Williamsburg is important mainly because of who all was there together in the House of Burgesses at the same time: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry, to name a few. They, along with the Adamses in Massachusetts, more or less started the American Revolution.
The surrounding city of Williamsburg is quite modern and touristy, but the historic area is old-fashioned and touristy. Like the Novell campus, Colonial Williamsburg (CW) is preserved and staffed by a non-profit corporation. But unlike the Novell campus, CW is very quainte.
Upon arrival, the kids were convicted of disturbing the peace and got the pillory:
After being released, they got to work in a colonial corn field with hoes:
We visited the very regal Governor's Palace, home of the crown-appointed and colonist-reviled governor of Virginia:
The palace was dull for the kids, but then there was a girl's bedroom, which Amelia enjoyed seeing (you can't read it in this photo, but Amelia's free badge says "I Am Under 6"):
Jonathan had a great time too, despite this photo:
Each afternoon at Williamsburg, they hold a regularly scheduled revolution for a couple of hours. You stand in the street and see authentic characters talk about the British abuses, the war, etc. This photo shows Tracy enjoying the revolution (the boy in the orange is Jimmy; the girl in the stripes is *not* Amelia):
At the end of the revolution on our second Williamsburg day, they invited able-bodied men to join the march to the courthouse before moving on to battle at Yorktown. How could I refuse? (That's me in the green colonial shorts and white colonial baseball hat.)
Civilians, including children, were invited to march behind, but they had to provide their own weaponry if desired. Luckily, Jimmy had chosen out an authentic Pirate Rifle the day before from the colonial gift shoppe (that's him in the yellow shirt; his glow-in-the-dark cast is hiding behind the more authentic soldier):
At the end of the day, we stopped for one last picture before heading back to the colonial parking lot:
The next day, after our last night at the posh Travelodge Williamsburg, we headed to Norfolk. The proper southern way to say "Norfolk" sounds quite impolite; as a squeamish Western prude, I incorrectly say it like it looks: "Nor-Folk." Whatever its pronunciation, Norfolk has several mermaid statues:
It also has a great place called the National Maritime Center, which includes Nauticus, a wonderful museum about all things related to boating, and the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, a free U.S. Navy museum that includes the U.S.S. Wisconsin. I didn't realize the place would hold our attention for the entire day, but it did.
We got to tour the outside of the U.S.S. Wisconsin battleship:
It has been suggested that the kid to our left, your right, needs some manners pertaining to photo-taking in public places. Our kids do it too. What can you do? All we can do is photoshop him right out of there:
The Wisconsin is part of the Navy's Inactive Fleet, which means she could be activated and used at any time. She took part in WWII, the Korean War, and the First Gulf War. It was fascinating to be on a ship so large and with such a long and rich history.
Here is the type of shell that the Wisconsin's big 16-inch guns fire:
Jimmy said he learned a great lesson on this trip: "Guns are important!"
He's right. What else is important? Bunk beds:
Underwater exploration pods with claws:
And of course, families are important. We really enjoyed this little vacation. If you ever come visit us in Virginia, there will be plenty to do!
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Wake up time
Last night, as we were going to sleep, Gary wondered how the kids would wake us up in the morning. Sometimes they knock. Sometimes they make a lot of noise. When Jimmy was small, he used to stand by the bed, waking us up as quietly as possible.
This morning, Jimmy and Jonny came into our room, crawled into bed and started to sing "There were 5 in the bed and the little one said 'I'm crowded, roll over!"
This morning, Jimmy and Jonny came into our room, crawled into bed and started to sing "There were 5 in the bed and the little one said 'I'm crowded, roll over!"
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Ninja Turtles
Jimmy went to see the new Ninja Turtle movie last night with a friend, Mikito. He came home and told us all about it. It sounds really exciting, full of adventure. There are a few scary parts though. Rafael and Leonardo (2 of the Ninja Turtles) get in an argument and one of their weapons is broken. This was too much for Mikito. He ran screaming from the theater!
(We have since cleared a path in our living room, just in case something scary comes on our tv and he needs a quick exit!)
(We have since cleared a path in our living room, just in case something scary comes on our tv and he needs a quick exit!)
Boo Bah!
Last week, Jonathan chose a Boo Bah movie at the library. We brought it home and he watched it with Amelia. He watched it but didn't seem so captivated. When it was done, he turned off the tv. Amelia was upset. "Jonny turned the movie off before it was done!" I explained that the movie was all done and it was right to turn it off. Amelia looked really confused. "But movies are supposed to have a beginning, a middle, and an end," she protested.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Angry Eyes
There is a silly part in Toy Story 2 where Mr. Potatohead is packing for a trip and Mrs. Potatohead is helping him. She opens his back and says something like "I'm packing your angry eyes, just in case."
I like to wiggle my eyebrows at the kids, to see them try to wiggle back. Jonathan ususally laughs and tries to grab my eyebrows. Today, he spent the parts of the day with his eyebrows down, looking very dark and angry. But he wasn't acting particularly angry. Then I figured it out. He was trying to figure out how to wiggle his eyebrows at me, but could only manage the down part.
I like to wiggle my eyebrows at the kids, to see them try to wiggle back. Jonathan ususally laughs and tries to grab my eyebrows. Today, he spent the parts of the day with his eyebrows down, looking very dark and angry. But he wasn't acting particularly angry. Then I figured it out. He was trying to figure out how to wiggle his eyebrows at me, but could only manage the down part.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Jimmy's Cast
Last weekend, Jimmy and Gary went ice skating for the school skate night. Jimmy took a big fall on his elbow and cried pretty hard. When he got home, he told me "My arm hurts pretty bad so I'm not going to move it for 8 days." He didn't complain anymore, but he didn't really use his arm. So yesterday I figured there might be something wrong and got an appointment at the doctor today. Ta da! After 2 appointments and x-rays, he has a lovely new red cast, to be worn for the next 6 weeks. His arm is fractured at the base of his upper arm bone. He already feels better from it, as his arm is protected against jostling and banging now. But now I feel like a terrible parents leaving it so long!
3 babies!
Here are the kids happily swaddled in their new blankets! Thanks to Nana and Pop for the Valentine blanket surprise.Sunday, March 04, 2007
A Special Announcement
Please stand by for the following special announcement, exclusive to kiddodiddo blog readers:
The next kiddodiddo.
The due date is September 15. More details to come soon!
UPDATE: he's here! He's here!
The next kiddodiddo.
The due date is September 15. More details to come soon!
UPDATE: he's here! He's here!
Photography
Here is what our new house looks like:
If you follow the walkway in the foreground straight back, you see two doors. Ours is the door on the left. Unfortunately we do not have a garage with handsome barn door like you see in the photo, but at least we have assigned spaces for our car and van:
And here's a photo of cute Jonathan:
I showed him this photo and he said "baby!" It is brightened for better visibility. As I was playing around with the contrast, I bumped it up to 100 and it looked like this:
Jonathan's reaction was, "Uh-oh!"
If you follow the walkway in the foreground straight back, you see two doors. Ours is the door on the left. Unfortunately we do not have a garage with handsome barn door like you see in the photo, but at least we have assigned spaces for our car and van:
And here's a photo of cute Jonathan:
I showed him this photo and he said "baby!" It is brightened for better visibility. As I was playing around with the contrast, I bumped it up to 100 and it looked like this:
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Jonathan's reaction was, "Uh-oh!"
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Facial recognition
Tonight I needed to distract Jonathan for a few minutes. I thought it would be fun to show him a picture on the computer. So I used Google to search for images, hoping to find a picture of, I don't know, Mickey Mouse. I thought maybe I could explain who Mickey was and what his purpose is in our lives.
But no explanation was necessary.
I was on the search results page when I heard Jonathan get very excited and say, "Mick!" Apparently he already knows. :-) (FYI Jonathan is nearly 17 months old.)
But no explanation was necessary.
I was on the search results page when I heard Jonathan get very excited and say, "Mick!" Apparently he already knows. :-) (FYI Jonathan is nearly 17 months old.)
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Cans! Num Num Num!
Last time I got out the crayons, Jonathan got very excited and shouted "CANS! Num num num!" (translation: crayons! yummy!) He is my only child who enjoys art time, if for the wrong reasons (he eats the supplies, in case you were wondering.) Jimmy and Amelia hate drawing, writing, and coloring. Does anyone have tips on how to encourage these activities or make them fun for kids?
Friday, February 02, 2007
Jonny's post
Jonny has been very chatty lately, speaking one word sentences and especially the word "MA!" which now means everything (help, more, Mom, and anything else urgent.) Yesterday he said his first sentence. I was trying unsucessfully to buckle him into his carseat and he was sucessfully fighting me off. "DONE!" he shouted over and over, meaning that he was done being in the car and wanted to get out. Finally in shear desparation, he shouted in his angriest 1 year old voice "I AM ALL DONE!" It was very clear. I was surprised.
Today he put a few words together again. "Bye, Jimmy" he said as the school bus drove away this morning.
Today he put a few words together again. "Bye, Jimmy" he said as the school bus drove away this morning.
Amelia's Post
Amelia has joined the primary this year and is very happy to be a Sunbeam. She loves the singing time and brings a lot of energy to the class.
She wants me to type a song she made up it is called "the room of thee"
I will be kind today and i will be all that i can be my earthly home unto thee for sins for forgiveness I will weakness I will sin and obey and then obey holy spirit father of for the kind you say to me thee to parents kind and dear help us find the way oh when all that he must do for living child of gray juice.
*This is not as easy to remember as one Jimmy made up one day that he had the "urp disease"
"this is the throw up place, the United States- bock bock bock!"
She wants me to type a song she made up it is called "the room of thee"
I will be kind today and i will be all that i can be my earthly home unto thee for sins for forgiveness I will weakness I will sin and obey and then obey holy spirit father of for the kind you say to me thee to parents kind and dear help us find the way oh when all that he must do for living child of gray juice.
*This is not as easy to remember as one Jimmy made up one day that he had the "urp disease"
"this is the throw up place, the United States- bock bock bock!"
Jimmy's Post
Jimmy has been unusually helpful lately. In fact, his school teacher called to tell me what a "good citizen" he has been.
Monday was a school holiday- the floating holiday reserved for snow days that don't come. I didn't set any alarms hoping that the kids and I could sleep in. At 8:15, I heard the vacuum cleaner going. (I was surprised to sleep in that late!) I went upstairs to find Jimmy and Amelia vacuuming up yogurt. Jimmy decided I needed a break that day and so he gave everyone a breakfast of yogurt and bread. Jonny took off running with his yogurt and got it all over the carpet and the slide in the living room. I had to keep from laughing at the mess and their attempt to clean it up. Sometimes it really is the thought that counts.
Monday was a school holiday- the floating holiday reserved for snow days that don't come. I didn't set any alarms hoping that the kids and I could sleep in. At 8:15, I heard the vacuum cleaner going. (I was surprised to sleep in that late!) I went upstairs to find Jimmy and Amelia vacuuming up yogurt. Jimmy decided I needed a break that day and so he gave everyone a breakfast of yogurt and bread. Jonny took off running with his yogurt and got it all over the carpet and the slide in the living room. I had to keep from laughing at the mess and their attempt to clean it up. Sometimes it really is the thought that counts.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
A Little Lesson in Farming
Yesterday, Amelia and I were out and about together. While we were walking and talking, she taught me a little about farming.
"Mom, milk comes from cows. Carrots come from bunnies!"
"Mom, milk comes from cows. Carrots come from bunnies!"
Saturday, January 20, 2007
The Mitten
Jimmy made a cute little mitten at school and he tells a cute little story with it.
There was a little boy named Nicky who had snow white mittens. His grandma made them and he loved them. One day he went climbing in a tree and one fell off. He could not find it because it was snow white and there was snow on the ground. Along came a mole and climbed inside (he has animal cut outs that fit inside.) It went in backward so it could see if any creditors were coming. (I think he meant preditors) A badger, fox, mouse, and owl follow the mole into the mitten. Then a bear climbs into the mitten. It sneezes "ACHOO!" (he dumps out all of the animals) and out come all of the animals.
There was a little boy named Nicky who had snow white mittens. His grandma made them and he loved them. One day he went climbing in a tree and one fell off. He could not find it because it was snow white and there was snow on the ground. Along came a mole and climbed inside (he has animal cut outs that fit inside.) It went in backward so it could see if any creditors were coming. (I think he meant preditors) A badger, fox, mouse, and owl follow the mole into the mitten. Then a bear climbs into the mitten. It sneezes "ACHOO!" (he dumps out all of the animals) and out come all of the animals.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Something Strange in the Neighborhood!
Something strange has been going on after bedtime at our house. A few nights ago, Gary and I went to check on the kids after they were asleep and we found them in bed, wearing outgrown winter hats and mittens. I must admit that it is not unusual to find Jimmy sleeping in one glove (a black one, ala Luke Skywalker) but to see him sleeping in a hat that barely covered his hair with mittens on both hands was unusual. To find Amelia sleeping in like manner was downright strange. I wondered what they had been up to. The next night, we found Jimmy sleeping on the closet floor, wearing hat, mittens, and a padded vest. We do not have a cold house. We keep the thermostat at about 70. The third night, after bath, Jimmy raided the old winter clothes yet again, making reference to space travel. A clue! Space travel...
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Do dingos eat babies?
I really don't know why this came up the other day. Gary and the kids were having a discussion about whether dingos eat babies or not. Now the kids are afraid of Australia because they think Jonathan will be eaten. Jonathan, on the other hand, likes to go around saying "dingo dingo!"
Why do you like to race?
Tonight, before the kids went to bed, Jimmy challenged Gary to a race. Gary asked Jimmy "Why do you like to race?" and Jimmy responded:
"Because it gets my wiggles out and it gives me strong leg muscles."
So now we know!
"Because it gets my wiggles out and it gives me strong leg muscles."
So now we know!
Friday, January 05, 2007
Jonny's little joke
Over the weekend, we bought a minivan (yay!) and we are all grateful to have it. It's a 1999 Chevrolet Venture. While Jimmy gets a thrill out of the automatic door, Jonathan found a unique way to enjoy the van. As soon as the door opens, Jonthan reaches in and pushes on the black circle and shouts "ding dong!"
(if you open your car door, you will probably see a black circle where the door closes)
(if you open your car door, you will probably see a black circle where the door closes)
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
A Grand Announcement
Christmas day was a peaceful day at home of the Kiddodiddo family. After new toys were opened and proper gratitude was shown (yes it was spontanious and wonderful), the children disappeared upstairs with their new treasures. Jimmy's was a talking Red Power Ranger and Amelia's was a Barbie Mermaid. We parents relaxed on the couch. Much later, Jimmy and Amelia appeared downstairs, to announce the marriage of Shella the Mermaid to The Red Power Ranger. The happy couple honeymooned, arm in arm in a pink barbie car and has often been sighted together since
Friday, December 22, 2006
Pictures with Santa
This year's ward party included a fun photo opportunity with Santa Claus himself. As soon as the jolly, old man entered the room, Jonathan (worried) scrambled up into my arms, and Amelia burst into tears. Hold me, she sobbed. While Jimmy conversed freely with Santa Claus, the two younger kids clung desperately to me. Even after seeing the candy cane that Jimmy got, they were not convinced that Santa was a nice man. Eventually, a girl came along and gave Jonathan a candy cane. While he ate the candy, I stuck him on Santa's lap for a picture. As long as he had the candy cane, he didn't care what happened to him. Amelia did not like to be the only one with out a candy cane. She timidly approached Santa for a candy cane and consented to have her picture taken with him.
New Word List for Jonathan
As Jonathan grows, so does his vocabulary. It is still very limited (it should take off around 18 months) but it includes some really cute words. Like his sister, he seems to learn words in bunches of 5 or 6. The previous bunch and the current bunch do not overlap. He also whispers when he says words with the exception of MO! (more) he knows that one very well and is not shy to say it.
Here's his 14 month word list:
cookie: perfect ennunciation. He said it for the first time to Betsy Mollenhauer, a cousin.
ding dong: perfect ennunciation. He says this when we come up to the front door and he wants to ring the door bell.
MO!: more
sha: shoe
fa fa: this means dog and is the sound that dogs make, according to Jonathan.
ba: ball
bu: bus
ticko ticko: tickle tickle. He holds up his feet after a diaper change for "tickle tickle."
There may be a few more, but these are the most common for this bunch of words. I am excited to see what he learns next.
Here's his 14 month word list:
cookie: perfect ennunciation. He said it for the first time to Betsy Mollenhauer, a cousin.
ding dong: perfect ennunciation. He says this when we come up to the front door and he wants to ring the door bell.
MO!: more
sha: shoe
fa fa: this means dog and is the sound that dogs make, according to Jonathan.
ba: ball
bu: bus
ticko ticko: tickle tickle. He holds up his feet after a diaper change for "tickle tickle."
There may be a few more, but these are the most common for this bunch of words. I am excited to see what he learns next.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Waiting for the Other Sock to Drop
Last night, Jimmy and I were playing a game on the old NES. Jonathan wanted to sit on my lap, but only for a few seconds at a time. One time that he sat on my lap, I noticed that he was wearing only one sock. I played with the toes on his right foot, and I asked him, "Jonathan, where's your other sock?" I tugged the sock on his left foot to show him what I meant. Not surprisingly, he got up and walked away, as he had already done countless times. I didn't think anything of it and went back to saving the princess.
A few minutes Jonathan came back, held a sock up to my face, and said "Taa!," which I think was supposed to be "Tada!" It was the match for the sock he was already wearing! I know he understands some of what we say, but that he understood my question about the sock and went and found it is amazing (and cute) for his age!
A few minutes Jonathan came back, held a sock up to my face, and said "Taa!," which I think was supposed to be "Tada!" It was the match for the sock he was already wearing! I know he understands some of what we say, but that he understood my question about the sock and went and found it is amazing (and cute) for his age!
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Christmas Cards
Our Christmas cards need a little explaination this year. We went to a Christmas card making workshop at the Clara Barton National Historic Site in Glen Echo, Maryland. (Clara Barton was born on Christmas and annually sent out more than 500 cards) For the cards, everyone was to dress up in historic costume (turn of the century) get their picture taken, and then use that to create a card. So we started searching through the costumes. I found something. Gary found something. Amelia settled on a pink women's blouse (none of the kids stuff was pink, and that's all she wanted.) Jonathan was oblivious to the event and wore a hat and vest. Jimmy had a tantrum and wouldn't cooperate. So we took the picture without him. Then it was time to go make the cards. Amelia wouldn't take her costume off and give it to the next girl. She had a tantrum. Then Jimmy started whining because he wasn't in the picture. SO he took one by himself wearing a hat. We left. We got a copy of the one of the 4 of us. They didn't give us the one of Jimmy.
You will be getting a card (not hand made) with the picture of the 4 of us and Jimmy's school picture. Maybe next year, we'll all get in a picture together.
Later, I found a picture of Jimmy standing in a George Washington cutout (taken at Valley Forge last summer.) If I had been on the ball, I would have sent out that one with the card, so at least we would all be in costumes even if we were not in the same picture. Here is the picture of Jimmy for you all to enjoy.
Salad Anyone?
A few days ago, the kids and I were enjoying vegetable sticks with salad dressing for a snack. As Jonathan doesn't really have enough teeth to chew carrots, I gave him an alternate snack (crackers.) He whined about that, so I gave him a plate with a little salad dressing and a celery stick and a carrot stick. (so he didn't feel left out) He threw the carrot and the celery over the side of the high chair tray and eagerly picked up the plate and licked the salad dressing off!
Sinter Claus
A few days ago, Amelia was eatting breakfast and she said "Today I am going to say my "ar's. gRits. suckeR. wRapper. Hey everything has ar's in it!"
Suckers and wrappers are not usually served for breakfast. They were from "Sinter Claus" someone Jimmy learned about in kindergarten. In Africa, they put their shoes outside for Sinter Claus to come and fill with candy. Jimmy immediately came home from school and stuck his "shoes" outside (paper cut out shoes they made in school.) He checked on them all day, to see what would happen. I thought that this was a Christmas only thing, but Jimmy insisted that it was everyday. He took this so seriously, I took pity on him and put a few suckers in the shoes in the night. In the morning, he woke up early, went outside and collected his shoes with candy inside. I thought he would be happy at that. He came in, dumped out the candy, and stuck the shoes back outside. Mercifully, the "shoes" blew away that afternoon and that was the end of that.
Suckers and wrappers are not usually served for breakfast. They were from "Sinter Claus" someone Jimmy learned about in kindergarten. In Africa, they put their shoes outside for Sinter Claus to come and fill with candy. Jimmy immediately came home from school and stuck his "shoes" outside (paper cut out shoes they made in school.) He checked on them all day, to see what would happen. I thought that this was a Christmas only thing, but Jimmy insisted that it was everyday. He took this so seriously, I took pity on him and put a few suckers in the shoes in the night. In the morning, he woke up early, went outside and collected his shoes with candy inside. I thought he would be happy at that. He came in, dumped out the candy, and stuck the shoes back outside. Mercifully, the "shoes" blew away that afternoon and that was the end of that.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Cheaters Never Prosper
Jimmy and Amelia were having a race to put on shoes today. Amelia got done first because she didn't use socks. "I won, I won!" she cried. "No you didn't! You didn't use socks. Cheaters never prosper!" Jimmy called back. "Ha Ha I prospered!" Amelia taunted. And then back and forth over whether or not she actually was actually prosperous. I thought it was a pretty funny arguement. I guess you had to be there.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
What is fragile?
Amelia asked me what fragile means. I asked Jimmy to explain (to see what he would say) he said:
Fragile means it can be broken easliy. Like bricks or rocks or chains. Everything in the world is fragile to me.
Fragile means it can be broken easliy. Like bricks or rocks or chains. Everything in the world is fragile to me.
Monday, November 20, 2006
We are Thankful for Hats
Jimmy celebrated Thanksgiving in school today. Doesn't he look cute in his Indian get up?
Amelia also wore a hat today. She likes to wear this shower cap. She calls it her "red wig."
Jonathan loves to root around in other people's dressers and put on their clothes. Here he is in the baby cape that Gary was blessed in almost 30 years ago!
Halloween
I know it's a little late, but here is a picture of our kids from Halloween. Starting from left to right, there is Spiderman, a mermaid, and a pirate whose costume fell apart. That's an eye patch around his neck (his hook and hat are in his bucket) The kids enjoyed the church trunk or treat, but the neighborhood trick or treating was a little too scary for Amelia. After ringing most doorbells, we could hear the sound of dogs barking. This was enough to send Amelia screaming and running away. Maybe next year she'll be used to dogs. Then again, maybe next year she'll choose to stay home.
(To get your own Ariel hair, mix 1 packet red kool aid with a free sample packet of conditioner and apply to wet hair. Leave in as long as you can and then rinse. Wash hair with toothpaste to remove all color)
I
also included a picture of Jonathan in his carseat, taken that night. You might get the idea that he has crossed eyes... but he doesn't! It happens to be extra skin growing in the bottom corners of his eyes. We are assured that he will grow into his skin.Wednesday, November 15, 2006
The Natural History Museum
Last weekend we had beautiful weather so we decided to have an adventure in Washington DC. After some discussion we decided on the Natural History Museum followed by a walk along the National Mall.
The Natural History museum houses many great artifacts including dinosaur bones and the Hope Diamond. We did not see those first. We started in the basement with the "Birds of Washington DC" exhibit. The kids were really animated and pointed at all of the birds (they were taxidermied.) They exclaimed over the owls and hummingbirds especially. I really enjoyed seeing a bald eagle. Did you ever notice how it's feathers grow down its legs, looking like bird pants? I thought that was pretty funny. The kids loved the ducks and the turkey too. Jonathan kept trying to say bird (bwa) and Jimmy and Amelia were amazed to see real birds so close. As we turned the last corner, we came upon a pair of large, white swans, in a glass case. They were at waist height for adults, so the children could not see them. Gary lifted each kids up, starting with Amelia to get a better look. As soon as she saw the bird, she let out blood curdling scream! It was genuine terror! She shook and sobbed she tried to get away. She was inconsolible at the sight of these swans. Neither Gary nor I could see what the problem was. She was fine for every other bird on display, but those swans really set her off.
After that, we went to the gems and mineral halls. Nothing could be scary there. ANd nothing was scary there. We all oohed and aahed over the beautiful rocks and minerals, spending more time on the mineral displays then on the gems set in jewelry.
Then we went to go and see the reptile skeletons and the insect zoo. All of the bones were neatly arranged and very sterile however they gave Amelia the willies. Gary and I enjoyed the turtle skeletons. Jimmy like seeing the graphs that demonstrated bone growth and develpment.
In the Insect Zoo, Gary got to hold a large grass hopper. I asked if he would hold the kissing cockroach next and he laughed at me. It turns out I had heard wrong. It was a HISSING cockroach. We passed it by and headed to the dinosaur area. We all got a thrill out of seeing real, life size dinosaur fossils. Jimmy got the biggest thrill out of (drum roll please) the computer kiosk. He couldn't get enough of the computer display and had to be dragged away to look at the actual dinosaur bones. Once he noticed those, he thought they were pretty neat. Especially the t-rex. Amelia liked the baby dinosaurs.
We ended the day on the National Mall, with a short walk to the Washington Monument. It looked beautiful against the setting sun.
The Natural History museum houses many great artifacts including dinosaur bones and the Hope Diamond. We did not see those first. We started in the basement with the "Birds of Washington DC" exhibit. The kids were really animated and pointed at all of the birds (they were taxidermied.) They exclaimed over the owls and hummingbirds especially. I really enjoyed seeing a bald eagle. Did you ever notice how it's feathers grow down its legs, looking like bird pants? I thought that was pretty funny. The kids loved the ducks and the turkey too. Jonathan kept trying to say bird (bwa) and Jimmy and Amelia were amazed to see real birds so close. As we turned the last corner, we came upon a pair of large, white swans, in a glass case. They were at waist height for adults, so the children could not see them. Gary lifted each kids up, starting with Amelia to get a better look. As soon as she saw the bird, she let out blood curdling scream! It was genuine terror! She shook and sobbed she tried to get away. She was inconsolible at the sight of these swans. Neither Gary nor I could see what the problem was. She was fine for every other bird on display, but those swans really set her off.
After that, we went to the gems and mineral halls. Nothing could be scary there. ANd nothing was scary there. We all oohed and aahed over the beautiful rocks and minerals, spending more time on the mineral displays then on the gems set in jewelry.
Then we went to go and see the reptile skeletons and the insect zoo. All of the bones were neatly arranged and very sterile however they gave Amelia the willies. Gary and I enjoyed the turtle skeletons. Jimmy like seeing the graphs that demonstrated bone growth and develpment.
In the Insect Zoo, Gary got to hold a large grass hopper. I asked if he would hold the kissing cockroach next and he laughed at me. It turns out I had heard wrong. It was a HISSING cockroach. We passed it by and headed to the dinosaur area. We all got a thrill out of seeing real, life size dinosaur fossils. Jimmy got the biggest thrill out of (drum roll please) the computer kiosk. He couldn't get enough of the computer display and had to be dragged away to look at the actual dinosaur bones. Once he noticed those, he thought they were pretty neat. Especially the t-rex. Amelia liked the baby dinosaurs.
We ended the day on the National Mall, with a short walk to the Washington Monument. It looked beautiful against the setting sun.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Want to know when Jesus will come?
We have a famous super hero in residence. He came home with Jimmy from kindergarten on the first day of school. He wears the same clothes as Jimmy and he looks just like Jimmy. However, his family of 7 brothers was killed in a car wreck and he was forced to join our family. His name is "Crismon Shedds." Crismon Shedds' super power is that he was born knowing everything. He's not around all the time, but sometimes he puts in an "appearance."
Last night, during dinner I made a joke about the millenium (don't ask, it was political) which lead to the discussion of what the millenium is. We explainned how Jesus will come and it will be wonderful, but no one knows when it will happen. Not even the prophet or angels in heaven know when it will happen. "oh yeah?" says Jimmy "Just ask Crismon Shedds!"
UPDATE: more info on Crismon Shedds.
Last night, during dinner I made a joke about the millenium (don't ask, it was political) which lead to the discussion of what the millenium is. We explainned how Jesus will come and it will be wonderful, but no one knows when it will happen. Not even the prophet or angels in heaven know when it will happen. "oh yeah?" says Jimmy "Just ask Crismon Shedds!"
UPDATE: more info on Crismon Shedds.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Chore chart
I decided it was time to pass off some of the housework to the kids. I never make it through my list at the end of the day. I found a chore chart maker online and each week, I sit down with the kids and review what needs to be done. They then choose 2 things they are willing to take over for the week. Jimmy hangs his up and takes it very seriously. He vacuumed under the table for a week. He washed the windows. He said 2 things was not enough and he chose more. He chose hard jobs and did them well. He gets upset if someone else tries to do HIS job. I am grateful for his hardwork; I think when he is older he will accuse me of making him my slave!
Burning Lipstick
A few nights ago, I made "wild black bean soup" for dinner. It had 1/2c picante sauce in it, so it really packed a punch. It had a nice flavor, but it left a lot of heat in the mouth, in particular the lips. I liked it (with some hesitations, I could only finish half a bowl before I couldn't take the heat.) Amelia liked it. She ate a few bites and requested water. She ate a few more bites and requested water. She ate a few more bites and had a glass of water. She drank 5 larges glasses of water and then said "this soup is like burning lipstick!"
Copy cat!
Gary asked the children who wanted to say the bedtime prayer and Jonathan's hand was up first. "MA!" he shouted, in near perfect imitation of Jimmy and Amelia. He had no idea what he was volunteering for, or even that he was volunteering for anything. He just knew that when someone says "who wants to say the prayer" you are supposed to raise your hand and shout "ME!"
We tried an experiment: over the next few minutes, Gary asked at random "who wants to say the prayer?" and every time, Jonathan's hand flew up in the air and he shouted "MA!"
I guess it won't be long now before he can take a turn for real.
We tried an experiment: over the next few minutes, Gary asked at random "who wants to say the prayer?" and every time, Jonathan's hand flew up in the air and he shouted "MA!"
I guess it won't be long now before he can take a turn for real.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Jonny's Word List
As a former student of speech pathology, I really enjoy keeping word lists of my children's first words for the second year of life. (where the language development really takes off)
Jonathan turned one last week and he added his first word (other than Mama and Dada) After we dropped Jimmy off for the bus, he waved and said "bye bye"
So here is a list of the current words he says and uses spontaniously;
Mama
Dada
bye bye
done (da)
more (ma!)
amen (men)
Amelia (ni-ya)
He babbles a lot using sentences of made up words. He even pauses for me to respond. He can't wait to communicate!
Jonathan turned one last week and he added his first word (other than Mama and Dada) After we dropped Jimmy off for the bus, he waved and said "bye bye"
So here is a list of the current words he says and uses spontaniously;
Mama
Dada
bye bye
done (da)
more (ma!)
amen (men)
Amelia (ni-ya)
He babbles a lot using sentences of made up words. He even pauses for me to respond. He can't wait to communicate!
Friday, October 20, 2006
Seeing Red
Jimmy and Amelia don't really see eye to eye on most things lately. Most apparently clothing. He loves camoflague and she loves pink. She loves dresses and tights and he only wears denim, jogging suits, and t shirts. One could say that she is a "girly girl" and he is a "boyly boy" (I can't think of the real word at this time) But they both agree on the color red. He loves wearing red jogging suits with red shirts (no collars or buttons please!) she loves wearing red dresses. The more glitter the better. (she has one that was covered with glittery dots, but the glitter has long sinced washed off) In fact, she reminds me of Ginger Grant (the red head from Gilligan's Island) sometimes. Very pretty, very formal, and overdressed for most occasions!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Happy Birthday Jonny
Wednesday marked Jonathan's first birthday. The kids enjoyed "painting" on the sidewalk with brushes and water pitchers and exploring the paths around our community. That evening, Jonny coated himself with cake and ice cream. It was a peppermint flavored snake cake (he chose the flavor.) He really gets a kick out of snakes and thoroughly enjoyed eating one to celebrate his first year of life.
His birthday present was a singing rocking horse, which we did not have wrapping paper for. We covered it with a large blanket and hid it in a corner. That was not enough to fool Jonny. First thing in the morning, I found him with head and shoulders under the blanket, dancing to the music of the horse!
Sunday, October 08, 2006
New house photos
This is our living room. We haven't gotten it "just right" We are still pushing things around. 
Note the ride on toys on the balcony. The kids love to play there.
This is the kids bedroom. We painted it green, to be like the room from "good night moon" We even found a moon shaped lamp.
This is the play room. If you turn right, there is a play kitchen and baby dolls. If you turn left there is a tool bench, pirate ship and a racecar eating dinosaur.
Here are some pictures of our new place. We really like it here.
Note the ride on toys on the balcony. The kids love to play there.
This is the kids bedroom. We painted it green, to be like the room from "good night moon" We even found a moon shaped lamp.
This is the play room. If you turn right, there is a play kitchen and baby dolls. If you turn left there is a tool bench, pirate ship and a racecar eating dinosaur.
Here are some pictures of our new place. We really like it here.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
MOVE!
Last week, we moved into our new home. It is a 3 level condo. Jimmy says that his favorite part is the balcony. He can often be found hanging out on the balcony, where he and Amelia pull doughnuts (that's all there's room for) with "their wheels" (trike and scooter.)
We only have 5 boxes to unpack (unfortunately the "bonus boxes" that have a little bit of everything!) and are happy to be settling in. Pictures and details to follow eventually! (thanks for your patience)
We only have 5 boxes to unpack (unfortunately the "bonus boxes" that have a little bit of everything!) and are happy to be settling in. Pictures and details to follow eventually! (thanks for your patience)
Jonathan's Tricks
In the last week, Jonathan has picked up a few cute tricks!
Trick #1
A few days ago, we were all blowing kisses after dinner and he thought he'd join in the fun. He stuck his pointer finger in his mouth and began to blow. (I guess this one is still a work in progress, but it sure is cute!)
Trick #2
Jonathan can follow simple directions like "clap your hands" or "touch my nose" (He is working on eye and mouth too)
Trick #1
A few days ago, we were all blowing kisses after dinner and he thought he'd join in the fun. He stuck his pointer finger in his mouth and began to blow. (I guess this one is still a work in progress, but it sure is cute!)
Trick #2
Jonathan can follow simple directions like "clap your hands" or "touch my nose" (He is working on eye and mouth too)
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