July 31st 2009
Morning ice cream on the beach
I took the kids to the beach while we were waiting for Mommy at the orthodontist. It was muggy, humid and the sun was poking out between the clouds in the overcast sky. It was hot enough that we stopped back at the office to get Enzo's pacifier and buy 3 ice cream pops, yeah $5.25 was a bargain. The girls got to enjoy running on the beach after their ice cream. Enzo enjoyed a nice stroll. On our second full lap, mommy showed up at the beach access right as we were going past. The beach was already getting crowded at 9:30 in the morning.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 16 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 16 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 7 days
News posted by christopher at 10:30 AM | 
Comment
July 30th 2009
One Hundred Push Up Week Five Day Two
We took an extra day rest with the second day in week 5. We are now doing 8 sets instead of 5 and the workout is much more intensive. The first day was brutal. This second day was less reps but more sets. The girls did great, both Zoë and Abby showing major improvements. I managed to complete mine without assistance. Laura will do hers on Friday.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 15 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 15 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 6 days Sports posted by christopher at 6:01 PM | Comment
Picnic and Sprinkler Play
After swim lessons we had a picnic with Andrea and Anna Claire. Afterwards they invited us over to their house to play in the sprinkler. We went home to drop some things off and headed over. Zoë and Abby haven't ever played in a sprinkler before I don't think, so they were having a great time. Andrea even filled up a sled for Enzo to sit in and splash around.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 15 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 15 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 6 days News posted by Laura at 1:13 PM | Comment
July 29th 2009
Fancy Nancy Party
The other night, when Enzo and I were at the library, Ms. Mary told us about a Fancy Nancy party happening today. For those who don't know, "Fancy Nancy" is a series of books written by Jane O'Connor about Nancy who's family is very un-fancy but she herself wants to be as fancy as can be in every way. Leading up to the party the girls have been reading "Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy".
After the swim carnival we came home, had some lunch (a nice big refreshing fruit slushy Daddy made for us - Chris and I, and Enzo too, were probably all dripping with sweat by the time we finished walking home - along with some crackers and home made peanut butter) and before we knew it, it was time to get ready to go. Zoë and Abby were very happy to have some fancy new dress up to be able to wear, the dresses they were given in NJ, and accessorized as well.
We arrived at the library and the line for the party was impressive. Not only at how long it was, but at all of the fanciness. A woman in line told me that her friend had went to sign her daughter up the day before and she was told that there were ninety something kids already signed up! The party was in one of the meeting rooms of the library and before entering there was a table with name tags and the kids got to write their names with a feather pen. (Not a real one, as I found out, but literally a pen with a colorful feather taped to it.) Next they got a coursage and then got to go in to the festivities. There was a crown making station, paper jewelry table, dress up corner, coloring pages, nail painting area, pin the plume on the hat (whatever the fancy word for hat is), and a reading corner. Can you guess what the girls chose first? Yes, nail painting. There was only one girl that was actually painting nails, but there were two tables set up and moms were painting their daughters nails. I, however, had to make my children wait in line because Enzo was not cooperating with getting to sleep. They prefered someone else doing it anyway I think. They made crowns next, Zoë spent a lot of time making her crown quite fancy, and then found Anna Claire and talked to her. They were coloring a Fancy Nancy sheet, when the pin the feather on the hat - you fill in fancy equivalent - game began. However, just when it was going to be Zoë's turn, the announcement was made that the parade would begin.
Everyone lined up, and it wasn't just little girls, there were a few boys and their outfits were great, and then began with walking through the library. After winding around, everyone went outside and around the library, past the courtyard, and back inside to the café. Parfaits were handed out to the kids, many taking them outside, and then lemonade was passed out. We sat inside in the a.c., Enzo and I had had enough heat for one day. The girls chose pink lemonade when the choice was given, and there ended up being extra of the lemonade so Mommy got some too. That ended the party and then it was time for Zoë and Abby to get their exhausted Mommy back home. On the way Zoë said, "That was so much fun Mommy, thank you for bringing us!" Yup, though I was worn out and Enzo was itching to crawl around, it was all worth it.
After the swim carnival we came home, had some lunch (a nice big refreshing fruit slushy Daddy made for us - Chris and I, and Enzo too, were probably all dripping with sweat by the time we finished walking home - along with some crackers and home made peanut butter) and before we knew it, it was time to get ready to go. Zoë and Abby were very happy to have some fancy new dress up to be able to wear, the dresses they were given in NJ, and accessorized as well.
We arrived at the library and the line for the party was impressive. Not only at how long it was, but at all of the fanciness. A woman in line told me that her friend had went to sign her daughter up the day before and she was told that there were ninety something kids already signed up! The party was in one of the meeting rooms of the library and before entering there was a table with name tags and the kids got to write their names with a feather pen. (Not a real one, as I found out, but literally a pen with a colorful feather taped to it.) Next they got a coursage and then got to go in to the festivities. There was a crown making station, paper jewelry table, dress up corner, coloring pages, nail painting area, pin the plume on the hat (whatever the fancy word for hat is), and a reading corner. Can you guess what the girls chose first? Yes, nail painting. There was only one girl that was actually painting nails, but there were two tables set up and moms were painting their daughters nails. I, however, had to make my children wait in line because Enzo was not cooperating with getting to sleep. They prefered someone else doing it anyway I think. They made crowns next, Zoë spent a lot of time making her crown quite fancy, and then found Anna Claire and talked to her. They were coloring a Fancy Nancy sheet, when the pin the feather on the hat - you fill in fancy equivalent - game began. However, just when it was going to be Zoë's turn, the announcement was made that the parade would begin.
Everyone lined up, and it wasn't just little girls, there were a few boys and their outfits were great, and then began with walking through the library. After winding around, everyone went outside and around the library, past the courtyard, and back inside to the café. Parfaits were handed out to the kids, many taking them outside, and then lemonade was passed out. We sat inside in the a.c., Enzo and I had had enough heat for one day. The girls chose pink lemonade when the choice was given, and there ended up being extra of the lemonade so Mommy got some too. That ended the party and then it was time for Zoë and Abby to get their exhausted Mommy back home. On the way Zoë said, "That was so much fun Mommy, thank you for bringing us!" Yup, though I was worn out and Enzo was itching to crawl around, it was all worth it.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 14 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 14 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 5 days Special Occasions posted by Laura at 4:43 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
My goodness, I never heard of " Fancy Nancy" but that party sounded like so much fun!! So many things to do!!
Water Carnival 2009
We went to Portsmouth's water carnival at the Pierce Island pool this morning. Lessons were cancelled today for the carnival, which is free and only for Portsmouth residents. I was thinking as we were waiting in line how amazing it is what a year can do for a child. Last year there wasn't much the girls could do in the water and this year we were there for 2 hours! Our original plan had been to have the girls do all of the out of the water games first and then the in the water games, so that they wouldn't be cold in between, but it turned out to be pretty hot and with them in their wet suits, they were ready to get into the water.
The girls did really well and collected tickets that they got to go to the prize booth with at the end. They did frog on a log, Abby really gave it her all to stay on the 'log' in this one, and an in water obstacle course. There was sunken treasure, and a dolphin ring toss, bobbing for apples and plenty of other things to wait in line for and give a go.
The girls did really well and collected tickets that they got to go to the prize booth with at the end. They did frog on a log, Abby really gave it her all to stay on the 'log' in this one, and an in water obstacle course. There was sunken treasure, and a dolphin ring toss, bobbing for apples and plenty of other things to wait in line for and give a go.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 14 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 14 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 5 days Sports posted by Laura at 12:42 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
You girls have so many interesring things happening in your town. Another fun outing!!
July 28th 2009
Second Session Swim Lessons - Day 1
Apparently the girls already are doing better with their lessons. We talked to them about really trying even if the water is cold and about what the reasons are that they didn't pass level 3 last session. It was a hot day today, so that probably helped as well. Chris took the girls to swim lessons while Enzo and I spent 4 and a half hours in North Hampton while the car was serviced at Midas. Zoë and Abby were bummed that they couldn't go with me because they really wanted to go with me to look at all of the kids things as well as watch the rest of that Gigi movies. I asked Zoë if she'd like me to bring home a treat from the 'café' there and she said yes, plus one of those candies from that orange dish at Midas.
The girls told me that they did really great glides all the way to Brooke and Chris said that they really did them well and Brooke had a smile on her face the whole time Zoë and Abby were doing them. When I asked the girls who else was in their class they couldn't really remember. They did remember that there was again another girl named Abby, but not the same one as last time. And they think there's a girl named Grace. Tomorrow they won't have lessons as the water carnival will be going on.
When I got home Abby was just up from nap and Zoë was still sleeping. Abby asked why she woke up before I even got home, why I had to be out for so long. I showed her the Berentein Bears book I got for her (for $1 at the Yankee Country Store next to Midas) and she was happy with that since we've not seen this one at the library before. Her and Zoë also got to share a cookie for snack that I brought home and then got their peppermint candy that I brought home from the 'orange dish' (turned out it was red though).
The girls told me that they did really great glides all the way to Brooke and Chris said that they really did them well and Brooke had a smile on her face the whole time Zoë and Abby were doing them. When I asked the girls who else was in their class they couldn't really remember. They did remember that there was again another girl named Abby, but not the same one as last time. And they think there's a girl named Grace. Tomorrow they won't have lessons as the water carnival will be going on.
When I got home Abby was just up from nap and Zoë was still sleeping. Abby asked why she woke up before I even got home, why I had to be out for so long. I showed her the Berentein Bears book I got for her (for $1 at the Yankee Country Store next to Midas) and she was happy with that since we've not seen this one at the library before. Her and Zoë also got to share a cookie for snack that I brought home and then got their peppermint candy that I brought home from the 'orange dish' (turned out it was red though).
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 13 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 13 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 4 days Sports posted by Laura at 3:30 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
So glad to see you are progressing in swimming classes!! Keep up the good work!
July 27th 2009
Enzo's First Pasta Dinner
Enzo tried some ziti with sauce for the first time tonight. I gave him a plain ziti noodle in pieces to start and then once the rest was ready I gave him a piece with sauce. He really seemed to be much more interested in the pieces with sauce on them. He was done being in his high chair after two noodles, which takes him a little while as each one is in about four pieces, but he had fun while it lasted. Zoë commented when he was finished "He eats neater than we do".
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 12 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 12 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 3 days First Moments posted by Laura at 5:29 PM | Comment
One Hundred Push Up Week Five Day One
He had some hesitation starting this push up week. The sets are getting really difficult now. I had trouble completing my last set of 40. My arms and chest completely fatigued. The girls are doing great. Abby really has the push ups down now, Zoë still needs some work. She is turning sideways and not keeping straight and letting her stomach sag. I wish I had planks to strap to her to keep her straight. I am not sure we will move to week six at the end of this week, we might have to repeat week five to build up some strength. I took a cold shower afterwards and I am still shaking.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 12 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 12 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 3 days Sports posted by christopher at 10:45 AM | Comment
July 26th 2009
2nd Annual Merrimack River Maritime Festival
We met up with Tom, Sue, Jack and Anna at the 2nd Annual Merrimack River Maritime Festival in Salisbury. We hadn't seen them for a while and this was a good chance to get outside and let the girls run around a bit. We saw the tall ships, the pirates, cannons and concessions. After the play ground, we got some ice cream and food. Like previous years everything was expensive. Park admission was $9 per car. Waters were two dollars. 7 grilled shrimp for $5, lobster rolls for $10. I bought the girls each a soft serve ice cream cone for $4 each. We all split a fries and chicken fingers portion for $8. With the food and ice cream in hand, we strolled up the boardwalk to the beach. We stopped at the shaded rest area to relax and chat for a while. The kids ate the food and played. The beach was crowded and we were not dressed for sand/water activities so we packed up the kids and headed to the arcade. Abby and Zoë had a great time with all the games and quarters. We blew through $20 in quarters what felt like no time, but was about an hour. We exchanged our ticket winnings for candy. The girls got ring pops and an bag full of tootsie pops, which we shared with Jack and Anna. Everyone had a great time and was tired and ready for bed when we returned. I made a pineapple, mandarin orange and mango smoothie to rehydrate us before having a small dinner and getting ready for bed.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 11 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 11 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 2 days Holidays posted by christopher at 6:19 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Looks like everyone had a great time!!
Target Grand Opening not so Grand after all
We had been waiting for Target to come to the area for a long time. We would drive to the nearest one 25+ minutes away on occasion. When we learned they were opening a store nearer to us, we were super excited. We called and kept up with the progress and the opening. We attended the Grand Opening this morning, only to find out it wasn't so grand after all. They had a "silent" opening on Tuesday with all the hoopla and fanfare. So I guess we missed it. The customer service lady said it was only for the word of mouth crowd. This disappointed us extremely. We felt let down by Target, arriving at the opening time on the Grand Opening day, we really wanted to celebrate with Target, instead we just browsed an almost empty store. The carts were new and Enzo enjoyed the stroll at least.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 11 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 11 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 2 days First Moments posted by christopher at 8:23 AM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Darn, double darn,,,but I do like Target!!
July 25th 2009
First Ice Cream Truck Treat
While visiting Nonno in NJ last weekend, he managed to slip the girls each $5 for their very first ice cream truck treat. Today after our Great Park Pursuit visit, we stopped by Aunt Reanna's and Uncle Corey's house to get cleaned up. Abby and Zoë both heard the ice cream truck while playing in the back yard. Mommy grabbed their purses and they went to the street to wait. Abby and Zoë were extremely excited and chose their own treats. They saved the treats in the freezer until after we had dinner. Thanks Nonno Ernie.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 10 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 10 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 1 day First Moments posted by christopher at 4:35 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Aren't Gandparents GREAT!! Thanks, Nonno for treating our little "sweeties" !!
Great Park Pursuit - Peabody Mill Environmental Center
Today's Great Park Pursuit visit had us at the Peabody Mill Environmental Center in Amherst. There were tons of activities and things to learn about. When we arrived, it was almost lunch time. Abby and Zoë sat at the picnic table and at the big sandwich we prepared in the Lowe's parking lot and some canned fruit. We watched people catching fish, dragonflies and other stuff around the pond and stream. I saw this huge spider, or is it some kind of crab. It was very large and even attacked the stick I used to move it. The spider and the frog we saw were on the walk into the complex from the parking area. We listened to the dragonfly presentation, went outside and saw some in action. The guy caught some and the girls had nets at the ready. We then jumped to the edible plants presentation. It was very interesting. We finally saw some lamb's quarters we had read about in our green smoothie book. The girls got to sample a couple of things growing on the ground and were amazed at what you could eat. We made sure they know not to eat anything without asking mommy or daddy though, as some of the kids were putting everything into their mouths. One little boy caught a beetle and I said, "It looks tastey, eat it..." and I had to follow up with a "just kidding" as I thought he actually might. It was very educational and nourishing.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 10 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 10 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 1 day News posted by christopher at 2:48 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
I hope this spider isn't a Brown Recluse which is very poisonous!!
Be careful out there in the mighty NH woods!!
Lowe's Build and Grow Workshop - Helicopter
Today we built the helicopter. The kit was fairly simple and straight forward. We arrived just as they were starting, only one other group in there working. We got signed in and the girls got started. It was a quick build. We were done before mommy returned from Walmart. Not even a single mistake this time. Although Abby and Zoë managed to slightly damage the toy due to excessive hammering, that is all part of their fun.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 10 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 10 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 1 day Art posted by christopher at 10:32 AM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Enzo would probably love your helicopters!! Great job building them, girls.
July 24th 2009
Enzo's First Steps
Enzo took his first (stable) steps today! He's taken a couple of quick stumbly ones a week or so ago, but today on two separate occasions he took slow careful steps. The first time was sitting in the play area with Chris. He used Chris to stand up and just kept pushing off of Chris so that he could stand. One of the times, Chris scooted back just a little and Enzo took one step then stood for a moment on his own before holding onto Chris.
The second time, just a few minutes later, Enzo was holding onto the footrest of the recliner and Chris was standing a little bit away from him. Enzo let go of the couch, took one step and stood for a second then took another step and stood for a moment before then reaching out to Chris. The girls and I were all huddled quietly nearby waiting in anticipation and cheered when he made it to Chris.
The second time, just a few minutes later, Enzo was holding onto the footrest of the recliner and Chris was standing a little bit away from him. Enzo let go of the couch, took one step and stood for a second then took another step and stood for a moment before then reaching out to Chris. The girls and I were all huddled quietly nearby waiting in anticipation and cheered when he made it to Chris.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 10 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 10 days
Enzo @ 10 months, 1 day First Moments posted by Laura at 8:45 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Enzo, look at you...soon you will be walking all over. Wow!!
Kiddie Pool Party
A couple of times Enzo has joined Elijah in his kiddie pool in the back yard. The first time Enzo didn't stay in long. The second time he splashed around with Elijah for a good while. Maybe he stayed in longer the second time because he got to go in sans swim diaper. Zoë and Abby love to watch the babies in the pool, really though they're just itching for their turn.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 9 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 9 days
Enzo @ 10 months Photos posted by Laura at 2:17 PM | Comment
10 Months Old
Can you really be 10 months old already? These months are flying by too quickly. Your sisters and I were looking through photos of Brazil and it's just always so amazing to look back on the little newborn photos of you, my goodness.
Well, I'll start with the newest thing you've learned, kisses. I think that last night was the first night it really clicked for you the kissing action with the word. It was so funny too, when I passed you to Daddy and Daddy made kiss noises and gave you a kiss on your cheek. You just looked, and then very slowly leaned in toward Daddy to plant one on him. You made sure your tongue was out for added effect (I think you were interested in the texture of Daddy's scruffy face) You came back to me and after I gave you some smooches you leaned in and gave me the same slobbery kisses... very sweet.
You are really picking up the signs as well. Your sign for 'all done' is changing, as now you are moving away from just opening and closing your hands with your arms out wide and you are actually getting some of the wrist motion involved in the sign. You sign 'more' and 'daddy' as well. You wave hello and bye-bye too. Your babbling is starting to seem more and more like words lately. I've been noticing a pattern when you're signing all done that your babble sounds a lot like "a da, a da" and I'm wondering if my smart little boy could actually be starting some baby talking. Along with your babbling, you are SO close to walking. You're still being cautious though and will sometimes opt to squat down if you are too far from an object to hold onto. When you're in the playpen though, you stand for long periods at a time before grabbing the side or sitting down. Usually you've let go of the side to either clap (when excited) or sign all done. Also, if you really want to get somewhere you try your hardest to get down and crawl... you are so fast!
With all of this growing up you are still Mommy's little snuggle bug. I love that you love to cuddle and snuggle, I'll take it for as long as I can have it. Zoë and Abby are snugglers too, so they are always trying to get you to be still and give them some hugs, though it usually ends with you having a fistfull of their hair. We're loving watching you grow and your sisters especially get so excited with every new thing you accomplish or new food you try or having new teeth growing in.
Well, I'll start with the newest thing you've learned, kisses. I think that last night was the first night it really clicked for you the kissing action with the word. It was so funny too, when I passed you to Daddy and Daddy made kiss noises and gave you a kiss on your cheek. You just looked, and then very slowly leaned in toward Daddy to plant one on him. You made sure your tongue was out for added effect (I think you were interested in the texture of Daddy's scruffy face) You came back to me and after I gave you some smooches you leaned in and gave me the same slobbery kisses... very sweet.
You are really picking up the signs as well. Your sign for 'all done' is changing, as now you are moving away from just opening and closing your hands with your arms out wide and you are actually getting some of the wrist motion involved in the sign. You sign 'more' and 'daddy' as well. You wave hello and bye-bye too. Your babbling is starting to seem more and more like words lately. I've been noticing a pattern when you're signing all done that your babble sounds a lot like "a da, a da" and I'm wondering if my smart little boy could actually be starting some baby talking. Along with your babbling, you are SO close to walking. You're still being cautious though and will sometimes opt to squat down if you are too far from an object to hold onto. When you're in the playpen though, you stand for long periods at a time before grabbing the side or sitting down. Usually you've let go of the side to either clap (when excited) or sign all done. Also, if you really want to get somewhere you try your hardest to get down and crawl... you are so fast!
With all of this growing up you are still Mommy's little snuggle bug. I love that you love to cuddle and snuggle, I'll take it for as long as I can have it. Zoë and Abby are snugglers too, so they are always trying to get you to be still and give them some hugs, though it usually ends with you having a fistfull of their hair. We're loving watching you grow and your sisters especially get so excited with every new thing you accomplish or new food you try or having new teeth growing in.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 9 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 9 days
Enzo @ 10 months News posted by Laura at 1:51 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
10 months old...wow..how time is flying and you are learning and doing more things everyday!! Love you!1 xxoo
July 23rd 2009
2009 Swim Session 1 Final Day - Not Passing
I'm not really surprised that the girls didn't pass their level, as there have been so many days cancelled and the water has been so cold. Even so, there were only a couple of things that Brooke said held them back. She said that they're in between level 3 and 4 so we'll stick with what I signed them up for and have them do level 3 over again. Since they'll have Brooke again, she said she'd work specifically on these things with them. The areas are the front crawl (which is dissapointing to Chris and I because we know they can do this very well - but in warm water) and they're rotary breathing. At least it's good to know what to work on with them once we start up at the Y again.
Today they got to do all games, which Zoë was super excited to hear. I think that having the mind frame of it being "all fun and games" so to speak helped them to perform better. Abby was the only one who would get in at first, she just jumped right in and started doing her bobs, they were to do 15 to warm up. Zoë was next and Brooke had to coax the two older kids to even get in. Granted it was another chilly day for air and pool. They did a few relay games, with Zoë and Kieran being on a team and 'the two Abby's' making up the other team. Zoë was on the winning team each time... I think having the tallest person in the class as her teamate helped that one.
Then they did an individual race, seeing who could go the farthest with their glides. We all knew who would win it in the end, since all Kieran would have to do was lay out flat and he'd be further than the three girls, but Brooke was good and had the girls go first. First was (our) Abby, then the other Abby, who didn't make it as far! That's saying something for Abby because not only is she a good deal younger she's also a head shorter. Zoë went next and went about a hand length further than Abby. Of course Kieren won it, barely even gliding at all, but I was proud of my girls for going the furthest out of the girls anyway. They all tried doing hand stands in the next section over (shallower water) and then had a 'seahorse party' where they dove for two seahorse dive sticks each. After that they got their towels and level checklist cards and got to choose a lollipop. Both girls got new watermelon flavor tootsie roll pops.
Today they got to do all games, which Zoë was super excited to hear. I think that having the mind frame of it being "all fun and games" so to speak helped them to perform better. Abby was the only one who would get in at first, she just jumped right in and started doing her bobs, they were to do 15 to warm up. Zoë was next and Brooke had to coax the two older kids to even get in. Granted it was another chilly day for air and pool. They did a few relay games, with Zoë and Kieran being on a team and 'the two Abby's' making up the other team. Zoë was on the winning team each time... I think having the tallest person in the class as her teamate helped that one.
Then they did an individual race, seeing who could go the farthest with their glides. We all knew who would win it in the end, since all Kieran would have to do was lay out flat and he'd be further than the three girls, but Brooke was good and had the girls go first. First was (our) Abby, then the other Abby, who didn't make it as far! That's saying something for Abby because not only is she a good deal younger she's also a head shorter. Zoë went next and went about a hand length further than Abby. Of course Kieren won it, barely even gliding at all, but I was proud of my girls for going the furthest out of the girls anyway. They all tried doing hand stands in the next section over (shallower water) and then had a 'seahorse party' where they dove for two seahorse dive sticks each. After that they got their towels and level checklist cards and got to choose a lollipop. Both girls got new watermelon flavor tootsie roll pops.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 8 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 8 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 29 days Sports posted by Laura at 1:57 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
I see you both tried to do the tasks....so that was great. You keep improving and that is what it is all about.
July 22nd 2009
Safety Day Swim Lessons - Daddy and Enzo Stay Home
Today I left Enzo the longest I've ever left him, for about an hour. He was sleeping when it was time to get the girls out the door for their lesson, and he'd just nursed before going down for a nap so Chris said for me to just take the girls to the lesson and if he needed to he could just stroll Enzo over. We didn't end up seeing the boys so I figured all must be going well at home.
Today was safety day so the girls got to practice doing up their own life vests and how to hold them to jump into the pool from the side (aka jumping from a boat in a dangerous situation) They also practiced saving eachother and talked about safe and not safe ways to do this. After all of the safety stuff they went to the lanes and practiced swimming first with kick boards and then without. The girls were both obviously tired and cold, especially Zoë. Zoë kept needing help from Brooke and was taking breaks along the wall. Hopefully re-doing this class level next session will help and we'll have some warmer weather so that they show a little more of what they've got in the water.
We got home at about 11:45 and Chris said that Enzo had just woken up about five minutes beforehand. I was surprised as his morning naps have been shortening and only been about an hour and he went down at about 9:30. Him and Daddy were playing with Enzo's new train. Well, Daddy was trying to play with the train with Enzo, while Enzo kept crawling into the hallway.
Today was safety day so the girls got to practice doing up their own life vests and how to hold them to jump into the pool from the side (aka jumping from a boat in a dangerous situation) They also practiced saving eachother and talked about safe and not safe ways to do this. After all of the safety stuff they went to the lanes and practiced swimming first with kick boards and then without. The girls were both obviously tired and cold, especially Zoë. Zoë kept needing help from Brooke and was taking breaks along the wall. Hopefully re-doing this class level next session will help and we'll have some warmer weather so that they show a little more of what they've got in the water.
We got home at about 11:45 and Chris said that Enzo had just woken up about five minutes beforehand. I was surprised as his morning naps have been shortening and only been about an hour and he went down at about 9:30. Him and Daddy were playing with Enzo's new train. Well, Daddy was trying to play with the train with Enzo, while Enzo kept crawling into the hallway.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 7 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 7 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 28 days News posted by Laura at 11:44 AM | Comment
One Hundred Push Up Fourth Test
We finally tested into week 5 of the One Hundred Push Up Challenge. Abby and Zoë both did 35 push ups. I let them take a 10 second break at 15 push ups, where they held themselves in down dog to stretch their shoulders. Both finished without exhaustion so I think they could have done more. I managed to do 41 push ups without stopping, feeling the fatigue at the end. Mommy did 6 good form push ups. Abby and Zoë will be in level 1 of week 5. Week 5 is really difficult, they increase the number of sets to increase the strengthening. Zoë was in play mode and didn't perform as well as I had hoped. She just wasn't focused enough for the test this week. Abby was all business this morning.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 7 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 7 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 28 days Sports posted by christopher at 8:42 AM | Comment
July 21st 2009
Daddy Does It Again
It's been a while since Daddy has put Enzo to sleep, but tonight he was the one who finally got Enzo down. Enzo was definitely ready for bed (maybe over-ready which could be why we had such a tough time) so he and I lay down in bed and he nursed but was still tossing and turning after he finished. Chris came to bed and Enzo was snuggling him but still restless. I stood with him for a while swaying back and forth and he was almost out but just wouldn't fully relax. I put him back in the bed and he seemed instantly more comfortable and Chris got close and rested a hand on Enzo and did some deep breathing and sure enough, the rhythmic leg kicking Enzo had been doing ceased, and he went off to sleep.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 7 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 7 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 28 days News posted by Laura at 8:53 PM | Comment
Swim Lesson Hookey
Zoë and Abby came with me and Enzo today to our group at Families First. It was raining a lot this morning and more rain was supposed to come. The people at the pool weren't going to make the call for the girls' lesson time until 10a.m. which is when I needed to be at the group. It was sprinkling when it was time for Enzo and I to go, so I figured that there probably wouldn't be lessons and brought the girls along. Zoë and Abby were happy to be able to come and were especially excited that they got to go up to the gym, which is usually only something they get to do on Thursdays.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 6 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 6 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 27 days News posted by Laura at 11:39 AM | Comment
July 20th 2009
Enzo's Second Tooth
Sometime over the weekend Enzo's second tooth, right beside the first one, broke through the gums. I noticed it today, just a little above his gums.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 5 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 5 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 26 days Baby Teeth posted by Laura at 4:36 PM | Comment
July 19th 2009
Home Again Home Again
After getting on the highway in NJ at about 2pm we pulled into our street at about 8:30 tonight. We ended up having our first stop at about 4pm or so. Enzo was ready to eat, and besided that after going over some bumpy road one of the back windows decided to come dislodged and just came down. Luckily it didn't come down all the way and shatter though. I began nursing Enzo in the shade while the girls skipped around in the grass and Chris found some cardboard throughout the car to jam into the window to keep it up. (We couldn't find any tape, though even if there were any it'd be hard to find with a packed trunk) The girls went potty while I changed Enzo and then we got back to the car. When Abby saw her window she said, "Oh Daddy, you decorated my window!"
We had to stop again for dinner, I think it was close to 6pm. Chris got a salad and I a sandwich from Fresh City and we went ahead and let the girls each get a burger. I nursed and changed Enzo while everyone ate and Chris went to put him in the car while I took the girls to the bathroom. Enzo had started to get pretty fussy before we stopped to eat, but the rest of the ride home was not fun. To top it off Zoë told us, maybe an hour down the road after dinner, that she had to go poop "right now" It was about 7:30 when we stopped and found a place and then she ended up not even going! Ugh, at least Enzo got a little break from the car, but he was worse than ever when I got him back in. I spent a lot of time turned around standing in my seat so that I could comfort him. Even though we barely hit any traffic and were able to go "swiftly" (as the girls kept putting it), all of the stops - and the longer dinner stop - still put us at 6.5 hour trip time. Luckily we arrived safe and sound... we saw a LOT of really bad accidents over the weekend.
After the girls were in bed I went out to the car with Enzo to get something left in the back seat and since he was on my right hip, in the car next to his car seat while I was picking the stuff up, I think he thought he was going back in it. He was like a dog getting put into a bath tub, pushing against my face with his hands and against my waist with his feet. I got him out of the car area as soon as I could and reassured him that he wouldn't have to go back in it anytime soon.
We had to stop again for dinner, I think it was close to 6pm. Chris got a salad and I a sandwich from Fresh City and we went ahead and let the girls each get a burger. I nursed and changed Enzo while everyone ate and Chris went to put him in the car while I took the girls to the bathroom. Enzo had started to get pretty fussy before we stopped to eat, but the rest of the ride home was not fun. To top it off Zoë told us, maybe an hour down the road after dinner, that she had to go poop "right now" It was about 7:30 when we stopped and found a place and then she ended up not even going! Ugh, at least Enzo got a little break from the car, but he was worse than ever when I got him back in. I spent a lot of time turned around standing in my seat so that I could comfort him. Even though we barely hit any traffic and were able to go "swiftly" (as the girls kept putting it), all of the stops - and the longer dinner stop - still put us at 6.5 hour trip time. Luckily we arrived safe and sound... we saw a LOT of really bad accidents over the weekend.
After the girls were in bed I went out to the car with Enzo to get something left in the back seat and since he was on my right hip, in the car next to his car seat while I was picking the stuff up, I think he thought he was going back in it. He was like a dog getting put into a bath tub, pushing against my face with his hands and against my waist with his feet. I got him out of the car area as soon as I could and reassured him that he wouldn't have to go back in it anytime soon.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 5 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 5 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 26 days News posted by Laura at 10:16 PM | Comment
Departure Day
This morning we met everyone downstairs for the buffet breakfast and then headed back to the room for (hot) showers and pack-up time. Aunt Barbara and Uncle Rich were in the room right next to us so we stopped in there as they had gifts for the kids. Zoë and Abby got these huge floor coloring/sticker books as well as markers and crayons, and Enzo got a train with three balls that can either swirl around inside the train or pop out the back. Once we get batteries for it, I'm sure Enzo will be quite amused. I took it out of the package right away and he figured out where to put the balls really quickly. That kept him amused and the girls did their art stuff while I got the room packed up.
After we checked out we went over to Nonno's house and I started a load of Enzo's diapers right away. Aiden was down for a nap, so Chris took Zoë and Abby to run around the track at the high school. Normally Aiden would be running around with the girls, he really took a liking to them. Enzo and I roamed around the house, and he had some fun with Danielle, having help to walk around. When the girls were back Chris got them set with some of the shells and ziti we'd had the night before and then they got ice cream bars, while Enzo nursed. He was falling asleep and wasn't happy about me waking him to change his diaper before the car ride, but was happy to give everyone smooches good-bye.
After we checked out we went over to Nonno's house and I started a load of Enzo's diapers right away. Aiden was down for a nap, so Chris took Zoë and Abby to run around the track at the high school. Normally Aiden would be running around with the girls, he really took a liking to them. Enzo and I roamed around the house, and he had some fun with Danielle, having help to walk around. When the girls were back Chris got them set with some of the shells and ziti we'd had the night before and then they got ice cream bars, while Enzo nursed. He was falling asleep and wasn't happy about me waking him to change his diaper before the car ride, but was happy to give everyone smooches good-bye.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 4 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 4 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 25 days News posted by Laura at 1:10 PM | Comment
One Hundred Push Up Week Four Day Three Again
Doing the push ups in the hotel was a treat for the girls. We did them while waiting for everyone to show up for breakfast. Abby kept on telling mom to "bust them out." Zoë and Abby did great today, with the extra day of rest from postponed push ups on Saturday. We will test again and see if we can go to week 5 next week.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 4 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 4 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 25 days News posted by christopher at 8:22 AM | Comment
July 18th 2009
Winter Wonders Get Together
It's been a couple of years since I've been able to attend one of these, so I was very excited when the Eastern group of my online 'Winter Wonder' friends (we all found each other 5+ years ago as we all have kids born in Dec. 2003) picked to do a get together the same weekend we'd be down in NJ.
When we left Annandale, all three kiddos fell pretty much right asleep and took a nap for the approximately hour drive to Langhorne, PA where the meet-up was. When we arrived the girls got changed into their swimsuits to play on the big blow-up water slide with all of the other kids. The girls got to play and I got to chit chat and visit with the other mom's, thanks to Chris pretty much taking Zoë and Abby duty to the whole time. We only got to stay about an hour and a half since we had to get back to Nonno's for a family dinner, but we had a good time while it lasted!
When we left Annandale, all three kiddos fell pretty much right asleep and took a nap for the approximately hour drive to Langhorne, PA where the meet-up was. When we arrived the girls got changed into their swimsuits to play on the big blow-up water slide with all of the other kids. The girls got to play and I got to chit chat and visit with the other mom's, thanks to Chris pretty much taking Zoë and Abby duty to the whole time. We only got to stay about an hour and a half since we had to get back to Nonno's for a family dinner, but we had a good time while it lasted!
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 3 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 3 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 24 days News posted by Laura at 4:02 PM | Comment
Photos and Party Time
Zoë and Abby were super excited to get to wear the dresses they wore as flower girls last year in Matt and Caitlin's wedding, as we were getting photos taken. We had some group family shots, and Nonno with the grandkids and so on. I got picked as the photographer's helper to get the kids' attention whenever I wasn't in a photo. I basically stood behind his back and acted crazy to get them to look at me and maybe even crack a smile, but was given kudos for a job well done.
Afterwards we changed into party clothes, so the girls got to wear their 'party dresses' that Nonna gave them last time she visited and they were thrilled. After the photos there was a get together with appetizers and cake for Martha's 60th birthday. We almost left before cake, as all three of the kids were very ready for naps, but they decided to do it early so the girls wouldn't miss out. Daddy even ordered the girls shirly temples to drink and they got extra cherries, they were so pleased.
Afterwards we changed into party clothes, so the girls got to wear their 'party dresses' that Nonna gave them last time she visited and they were thrilled. After the photos there was a get together with appetizers and cake for Martha's 60th birthday. We almost left before cake, as all three of the kids were very ready for naps, but they decided to do it early so the girls wouldn't miss out. Daddy even ordered the girls shirly temples to drink and they got extra cherries, they were so pleased.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 3 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 3 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 24 days News posted by Laura at 1:55 PM | Comment
Gifts and Playtime
Nonno had gift bags for the girls and Enzo with plenty of fun stuff. Enzo even enjoyed taking everything out of his bag. The girls also liked all of the toys that neighbors had brought over since Aiden was staying there for a while. There was a little t-ball set, golf clubs, and some other fun things that kept us outside in the nice weather. Not to mention the walks with Daddy.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 3 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 3 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 24 days Photos posted by Laura at 1:45 PM | Comment
July 17th 2009
Enzo's First Hotel Stay
When we arrived at Nonno's, he informed us that he'd booked us a hotel room at the Holiday Inn a couple of minutes down the road, as he already had a housefull and also figured we'd be able to stretch out a bit better in our own space.
By the time we got to the hotel, Enzo was past ready for bed and was super tired. We got our stuff put down and I readied Enzo for bed and as soon as he nursed he was out. He did wake an hour or two later and seemed a little scared, out of place, but settled back down and snoozed in the middle of our king sized bed cozy on his piddle pad.
By the time we got to the hotel, Enzo was past ready for bed and was super tired. We got our stuff put down and I readied Enzo for bed and as soon as he nursed he was out. He did wake an hour or two later and seemed a little scared, out of place, but settled back down and snoozed in the middle of our king sized bed cozy on his piddle pad.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 3 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 3 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 24 days First Moments posted by Laura at 10:00 PM | Comment
Drive to New Jersey
We made the drive down to Nonno Ernie's today. We left at about 10:00 a.m. and were at Nonno's door about 6 hours later, right around 4pm. We hit traffic a handful of times, but the two pit stops we took were quick, just to potty the girls and nurse/change Enzo. I'd packed lunch, snacks, and drinks so we didn't have to take time stopping for that.
Enzo actually did pretty well. He took his morning nap shortly after starting our drive and then after our first stop he took a pretty good afternoon nap. Everyone was happy to arrive at our destination and see everyone and stretch our legs and play a bit.
Enzo actually did pretty well. He took his morning nap shortly after starting our drive and then after our first stop he took a pretty good afternoon nap. Everyone was happy to arrive at our destination and see everyone and stretch our legs and play a bit.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 2 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 2 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 23 days News posted by Laura at 4:38 PM | Comment
July 16th 2009
One Hundred Push Up Week Four Day Two Again
Wow are these push ups getting more and more difficult. I needed help to finish my last set today. Laura helped me on my last three. I was completely fatigued at that point. Abby and Zoë are doing great. Abby finished her last set without help, even did an extra one, all great form. Zoë is still working on perfecting her form, but she also managed to complete her last set without any assistance. Abby and Zoë both did 114 push ups this morning only resting 1 minute between sets. Great work girls, I am proud of you. You can even see their little muscles growing.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months, 1 day
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months, 1 day
Enzo @ 9 months, 22 days Sports posted by christopher at 8:40 AM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Wahoo!!! Godd going girls!!! So very proud of you sticking to it!!
July 15th 2009
First Outdoor Lane Swim
Brooke made a point of having the class go to the deep end and lanes at the end of the lesson. Each person got to do one length in the lane. It was the first time the girls lane swam outdoors. They were so excited. I think they do better swimming at the YMCA than what they are showing Brooke at the lessons. I asked Zoë about this today and her reply, "We forgot how to swim". Once lessons are over and our Y membership starts again, I will work with them on all these principles. They are the youngest in this class by 1.5 years at least. They are doing great and I hope they learn more on the second session but the water is too cold to concentrate.
Laura brought Enzo over on her bike after he woke up from nap. They joined us half way through the lesson. Once Enzo was changed, we played in the grass for a while so Laura could watch the lesson. Enzo was fasinated by the trolley coming and going as well as the feeling of the grass on his feet and in his hands. He stood up next to me almost the whole time.
Laura brought Enzo over on her bike after he woke up from nap. They joined us half way through the lesson. Once Enzo was changed, we played in the grass for a while so Laura could watch the lesson. Enzo was fasinated by the trolley coming and going as well as the feeling of the grass on his feet and in his hands. He stood up next to me almost the whole time.
Abby @ 5 years, 7 months
Zoë @ 5 years, 7 months
Enzo @ 9 months, 21 days First Moments posted by christopher at 12:09 PM | Comment
July 14th 2009
Together Book Store
I took the girls with me when I took the car into Midas for an exhaust issue, so that we could go to the bookstore next door together. It's the Together In Him bookstore, which they've been to a couple of times before. (Once with Nonna last summer when the car was at Midas for work.) Enzo and I sat on the comfy leather couch while the girls - and Enzo - had a snack and then we hit the restroom for potty time and a diaper change.
After we came out, Zoë immediately saw these dolls, I forget what they're called but they remind me of the American Girl dolls. She asked if we could get one and when I informed her that we weren't going to be buying one of those she said, "But they have different clothes, and I could change her outfit". Both girls were happy to see that there was a bean bag area set up and they got to watch Gigi's big sneeze, though only about 10 minutes of it. When I told them it was time to go check on the car Zoë said, "You go check on the car, we'll watch Gigi." After realizing that I meant I'd actually be needing to leave the store, she begged to come back and watch the rest of it after we got the car. I explained that they were only a little ways into the movie and there was a whole other episode, so that we didn't have time to stay and watch it. Abby said, "Well, now you know that we like that Gigi movie." Right, just in case I needed some hints FIVE months before their birthday. Zoë's already planning for the next time we take the car to Midas.
After we came out, Zoë immediately saw these dolls, I forget what they're called but they remind me of the American Girl dolls. She asked if we could get one and when I informed her that we weren't going to be buying one of those she said, "But they have different clothes, and I could change her outfit". Both girls were happy to see that there was a bean bag area set up and they got to watch Gigi's big sneeze, though only about 10 minutes of it. When I told them it was time to go check on the car Zoë said, "You go check on the car, we'll watch Gigi." After realizing that I meant I'd actually be needing to leave the store, she begged to come back and watch the rest of it after we got the car. I explained that they were only a little ways into the movie and there was a whole other episode, so that we didn't have time to stay and watch it. Abby said, "Well, now you know that we like that Gigi movie." Right, just in case I needed some hints FIVE months before their birthday. Zoë's already planning for the next time we take the car to Midas.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 30 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 30 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 20 days News posted by Laura at 3:39 PM | Comment
COAST Trolley Ride - Only 2 stops
The girls wanted to take the trolly home today, so we waited the 15 minutes for it to arrive at the outdoor pool. We learned how the system works and what to do to signal how to get off the trolley. The girls were so excited, this is the first trolley ride here in our home city. It cost only $0.50 per person older than 5. They don't make change, so I put in a full dollar. We were only on the trolley for 2 minutes, as we only needed to go two stops, which put us maybe 500 feet closer to home than had we walked. The girls enjoyed it all the same. We will look up other COAST trolley loops serving the area, it might make for fun excursions while our car is limping along. Here is the downtown loop map (PDF).
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 30 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 30 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 20 days First Moments posted by christopher at 11:45 AM | Comment
Warm day at the pool
The water was 71 degrees today and the sun was shining. I walked the girls to the pool for their lesson. Brooke, their normal instructor got married over the weekend so we had a substitute. The sub was great and took care of the girls. They actually stayed in the pool the whole lesson. I warmed the girls up and got them changed quickly. They even got some warm tea to drink, that I brought in the klean kanteen.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 30 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 30 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 20 days Sports posted by christopher at 11:35 AM | Comment
One Hundred Push Up Week Four Day One Again
We started week 4 day 1 of the One Hundred Push Up Challenge again. The girls are doing level two this time, and it is significantly harder. They struggled to get completed this morning, as did I. They managed to do all the required push ups, totally 97 for the morning. I did level three again, I didn't recall it being this tough last week.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 30 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 30 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 20 days News posted by christopher at 8:03 AM | Comment
July 13th 2009
Late Night Laundry
This evening after dinner, Enzo and I drove over to Reanna and Corey's to do his diaper wash yet again. What with the diarrhea, he went through the covers pretty quickly and I felt that the 'sanitary' cycle on Reanna's washer would be a good idea. That sanitary cycle does wonders for those diapers, heck even after we get our hot water back I might just have to do the diapers over there just to use that cycle.
Reanna had filled up Elijah's kiddie pool with bucket fulls of warm water and invited Enzo to have a pool party with his cousin. When I pulled up Enzo was sleeping so I let him stay in the carseat in the driveway, turns out Elijah was doing the same thing in their car. It wasn't long before both boys were awake and once Corey got home he took Elijah to the pool (after some more additions of hot water) and I took Enzo out to join him. Enzo was having a good time crawling around and splashing, and lapping up the water in the pool, for a while but then decided he wanted some warm milk and a towel. After nursing he watched Elijah splash happily for a while. After everyone was dried off, the boys played with some musical instruments together, Elijah even figured out how to make the recorder make music. Enzo decided that putting his mouth on the instruments must be the way they all work and was using his mouth on the tamborine to get it to make noise.
Enzo sampled some zucchini, which he's had at home, and a little bok choy leaf as the Valley's ate their dinner (late for us) and then the washer was done (it's a two hour cycle so we had plenty of time to play) and Enzo was ready for sleep so we headed on home.
Reanna had filled up Elijah's kiddie pool with bucket fulls of warm water and invited Enzo to have a pool party with his cousin. When I pulled up Enzo was sleeping so I let him stay in the carseat in the driveway, turns out Elijah was doing the same thing in their car. It wasn't long before both boys were awake and once Corey got home he took Elijah to the pool (after some more additions of hot water) and I took Enzo out to join him. Enzo was having a good time crawling around and splashing, and lapping up the water in the pool, for a while but then decided he wanted some warm milk and a towel. After nursing he watched Elijah splash happily for a while. After everyone was dried off, the boys played with some musical instruments together, Elijah even figured out how to make the recorder make music. Enzo decided that putting his mouth on the instruments must be the way they all work and was using his mouth on the tamborine to get it to make noise.
Enzo sampled some zucchini, which he's had at home, and a little bok choy leaf as the Valley's ate their dinner (late for us) and then the washer was done (it's a two hour cycle so we had plenty of time to play) and Enzo was ready for sleep so we headed on home.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 29 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 29 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 19 days News posted by Laura at 7:47 PM | Comment
July 12th 2009
Stomach Bug Gets Enzo
I had Enzo back at the doctor's office today. Again, he saw Dr. Warren, but this time for a non-routine check-up. Enzo's fever persisted yesterday and then in the afternoon, when we arrived at Reanna's for showering and diaper laundry, Enzo began throwing up and having diarrhea. I called into the pediatrician's office then, and was just told the normal "keep an eye on him" kind of things. He had a rough night, not nursing or taking anything for the first part of the night.
I took him in this morning and he got all checked out. His temperature was 103 degrees F, but he was still giving some smiles here and there. He certainly is not a fan of the rectal thermometer or the Tylenol suppository, that's for sure. Dr. Warren said that she doesn't think there's any reason to believe that there's a foreign object stuck in his intestine somewhere (I was worried that maybe he'd gotten a hold of a toy from the girls) or that this is an allergic reaction. She said it seems that he's just got a bad bug.
I took him in this morning and he got all checked out. His temperature was 103 degrees F, but he was still giving some smiles here and there. He certainly is not a fan of the rectal thermometer or the Tylenol suppository, that's for sure. Dr. Warren said that she doesn't think there's any reason to believe that there's a foreign object stuck in his intestine somewhere (I was worried that maybe he'd gotten a hold of a toy from the girls) or that this is an allergic reaction. She said it seems that he's just got a bad bug.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 28 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 28 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 18 days News posted by Laura at 1:52 PM | Comment
July 11th 2009
Great Park Pursuit - Robert Frost Farm
Today we ended up at the Robert Frost Farm in Derry as part of our Great Park Pursuit. Grampy came along from our Lowe's Build and Grow workshop. The girls liked spending some time with him. I think grampy might have even enjoyed the tour of the house and the history lesson. It was very well presented and highly educational. I was surprised the girls did as well as they did due to the scheduling. The tour happened around nap time. The girls didn't get to nap and still were quiet and respectful during the whole tour. After wards we ran around the 77 acre farm and went down to the brook. We saw more than a dozen huge frogs, and two large turtles on logs. The girls even got to sit in the crab apple tree outside. We all enjoyed the trip.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 28 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 28 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 18 days News posted by christopher at 8:48 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
I love Robert Frost. I think he was poet laureate at John F. Kennedy's inauguration. "miles to go before I sleep" was one of his lines.
Lowe's Build and Grow Workshop - Treasure Chest
Grampy met us over at the Lowe's this morning. We stopped on our way to the Robert Frost Farm and State Park for the Great Park Pursuit challenge. We met up slightly after 10:15 out front. Laura went to Walmart to buy some lunch items for the big sandwich per usual routine. Grampy helped Zoë and I helped Abby build the pirate's treasure chest. The girls have so much fun with these projects hammering away and all that. They love the patches too, just look at those patches. It was great to have grampy along for the build.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 27 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 27 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 17 days Art posted by christopher at 11:39 AM | Comment
July 10th 2009
Beach with the Valleys
We met up with the Valleys at the beach late afternoon. Getting out of Portsmouth at 4 PM on our first warm Friday in weeks was a nightmare. We waited in line at the South Street traffic light for five cycles. The traffic was already bad. We made our way to the Rye beach on our normal beach route back roads, which weren't that crowded. We managed to park behind Reanna and Corey. The girls were excited to get sandy and play in the water. It was much cooler at the beach and I was surprised to see Zoë dumping buckets of water over her own head. We don't have any hot water at home, so clean up was a bit challenging. Enzo wasn't feeling so well from a slight fever due to teething we think, so he was slightly cranky. Kate was also at the beach and held Enzo a bit while the girls ran around playing. We used tons of baby powder to take the sand off the girls before returning home for a pesto tortellini dinner.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 26 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 26 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 16 days News posted by christopher at 4:34 PM | Comment
9 Month Check Up
Enzo had his 9 month check up with Dr. Warren today. Overnight he came down with a fever so it was a good thing that he was scheduled to go in anyway. The doctor said that she couldn't see any reason for the fever, that it could just be his teeth. As well as the one that's already come through, she said the one next to it seems like it could be coming through anytime now.
Enzo is in the 50th percentile for weight, at just under 20 pounds (19 pounds 12 and a half ounces) and is in the 90th percentile for height at 30 inches. His head circumference is 18 1/4. The notes left by the doctor were "handsome healthy boy". Since he had a light fever I decided to hold off on getting him his polio shot.
Enzo is in the 50th percentile for weight, at just under 20 pounds (19 pounds 12 and a half ounces) and is in the 90th percentile for height at 30 inches. His head circumference is 18 1/4. The notes left by the doctor were "handsome healthy boy". Since he had a light fever I decided to hold off on getting him his polio shot.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 26 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 26 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 16 days News posted by Laura at 2:13 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Enzo..what a great check up.
July 9th 2009
One Hundred Push Up Third Test
The girls were well rested for the exhaustion test. Abby managed 22 good push ups and Zoe did 24. Unfortunately that doesn't qualify them for week 5, so we will be repeating week 4, but at level 2 instead of level 1 this time. Mommy will do week 2 again but at level 2 this time. She did 6 push ups from her knees. I will do week 4 again with the girls but starting at level 3. I managed to do 36 push ups on my 35th birthday. One extra for good luck. By the end of that week, I should be able to do 40 straight and the girls 33 straight. The girls will need to do at least 31 to advance to week 5.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 25 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 25 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 15 days News posted by christopher at 8:42 AM | Comment
July 8th 2009
Playtime with Anna Claire
Anna Claire came over this morning to spend some time with us. Andrea dropped her off at about 10:30, just before Zoë and Abby were to get ready for swim lessons. I put Enzo in the umbrella stroller and we walked to the pool. Anna Claire hung out with Enzo and I while the girls had their swim lessons and then they got as bundled as possible for the walk home. Zoë and Abby were so cold, and it had started to rain. Luckily the rain wasn't too heavy, because not only did we have to walk home, Enzo wasn't in the stroller with the canopy. He was in his rain jacket and had a blanket though. The shoes Zoë had on were loose so I ended up piggy backing her the majority of the way to the house so that we could walk quickly. I gave the three girls some hot chocolate with their lunch to help them warm up. After lunch there was some time to play before Andrea came to pick Anna Claire up.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 24 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 24 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 14 days News posted by Laura at 1:21 PM | Comment
July 7th 2009
Session 2 Swim Sign-Ups
Sign ups for session two are held at the outdoor pool, where lessons are held, so if today had been a nice day the girls would have been able to play on the playground while I waited in line. Unfortunately it was another chilly wet day. It was barely sprinkling when I was getting ready to head over to the pool, but I called to see if they'd be passing out numbers or if everyone was waiting in line. (If they were passing out numbers I could just go get one and come back home until sign-ups began) The guy I spoke with said that they'd only pass out numbers if it really started pouring and that there a couple of people in line. I got out the jogging stroller for Enzo, put him in his rain coat and put a blanket around him and then one over the top of the stroller. Chris made me a hot drink to take along. By the time we got there the rain had picked up and they'd started handing out numbers... go figure. I got number 10 and just hung out inside the 'bath house'. At one point it started thundering and lightning and I thought I'd have to call Chris to come and get us. Once I'd gotten the girls signed up (level 3 again since they haven't had enough lessons to advance) I prepared for the walk home in the rain. (Again, I contemplated calling Chris but we have to take a wheet off of the jogger in order for it to fit into the trunk so to pack the girls up in the rain and do all of that was more of a hassle than me just braving the rain) Enzo stayed cozy and dry, but the stroller and blanket covering it were soaked, not to mention myself, by the time we got home. The things we parents do for our kids.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 23 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 23 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 13 days News posted by Laura at 5:27 PM | Comment
Rainy Day Swim Number 2
Laura went to baby time at the community campus and I walked the girls over to their swim lesson. The sky was gray and overcast and rain was scheduled. We called the pool and the lessons were still being held. We walked over and got there about 10 minutes before the lessons started. There weren't many people at the pool. The sign out front said the water was a brisk 70 F. The air temp was only in the low 60's. The girls were still very cold in their wet suits. They got out after about 20 minutes of the lesson. It was just too cold. I quickly dried them and put on their thermal underwear and 3 layers of pants and tops, with their fleece jackets. It was raining at that point, and we had planned to take the trolley 2 stops to get closer to home, but we would have had to wait 30+ minutes for the trolley, we can walk home in less time. The girls really wanted to take the trolley but walking would generate heat. The rain let up and I had the girls have the towels over their heads like shawls. They complained but made the trip none the less. I put on a movie when the girls got home, it took them 2+ hours to get warmed back up. Their feet were the last parts to warm back up.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 23 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 23 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 13 days Sports posted by christopher at 11:58 AM | Comment
One Hundred Push Up Week Four Day Three
We have had more delays. Zoë has been having a slight 2+ degree fever so we have put off the push ups. We resumed week 4 day three today. It was a cool morning and they had no problems after the 4 day rest. We will start Week 5 soon.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 23 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 23 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 13 days News posted by christopher at 8:08 AM | Comment
July 6th 2009
Outdoor Fun
We were so happy to get pretty much a whole day of sunshine today. This morning Enzo and I went out on the bike for about an hour, running errands. We went to the post office, bank, city hall, and then stopped by the elementary school (so that I could ask questions about the girls attending the 'specials' during the school year and also about getting the math curriculum from them) and then we headed home. Enzo fell asleep on the ride from the school to home, as if the long bike ride wore him out more than me!
Later in the day the kids and I strolled to the park where Auntie Reanna, Uncle Corey and Elijah were hanging out with some friends. Zoë and Abby ran around with the other two little girs, but got bummed when the ice cream truck stopped by and my reply to the question, "Mommy can we get some too?" (picture hopefuI puppy dog eyes looking up at me) was that I wouldn't let them get anything like everyone else was. First and biggest reason being that they had had poor behavior at nap time and secondly we were getting ready to head home for dinner. I have to admit that I did feel bad seeing them watch everyone else's excitement at the ice cream truck as well as the ice cream itself and two different adults offering to get them some and getting turned down, as they sat there dissapointed. They handled it really well and didn't whine at me or anything, which is probably why I felt bad for them. Next time we see an ice cream truck we'll have to make a big deal out of it... besides I didn't have the camera and how could I not document the first ice cream truck purchase right? Both girls were happy to be walking back to the house with everyone and were happy that they got to go to the park to play for a while before dinner.
Later in the day the kids and I strolled to the park where Auntie Reanna, Uncle Corey and Elijah were hanging out with some friends. Zoë and Abby ran around with the other two little girs, but got bummed when the ice cream truck stopped by and my reply to the question, "Mommy can we get some too?" (picture hopefuI puppy dog eyes looking up at me) was that I wouldn't let them get anything like everyone else was. First and biggest reason being that they had had poor behavior at nap time and secondly we were getting ready to head home for dinner. I have to admit that I did feel bad seeing them watch everyone else's excitement at the ice cream truck as well as the ice cream itself and two different adults offering to get them some and getting turned down, as they sat there dissapointed. They handled it really well and didn't whine at me or anything, which is probably why I felt bad for them. Next time we see an ice cream truck we'll have to make a big deal out of it... besides I didn't have the camera and how could I not document the first ice cream truck purchase right? Both girls were happy to be walking back to the house with everyone and were happy that they got to go to the park to play for a while before dinner.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 22 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 22 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 12 days News posted by Laura at 2:42 PM | Comment
July 5th 2009
Fireworks 2009
I had Enzo in the wrap and he'd fallen asleep just before 9:00pm. The fireworks were set to begin at 9:15, postponed to today from Friday. I remembered the glow sticks, which Nonno Ernie had sent last year and then I forgot to bring then, so that was a plus for the girls. Unfortunately this year I couldn't scale the guard rail to sit in the grassy area by the water like last year. Though Enzo made it difficult then, making my belly protrude, he was much more in the way wrapped around my front this year. ;)
Zoë and Abby snuggled up on each side of Chris on the picnic blanket, while Enzo and stood on the sidewalk. Enzo had woken up as soon as we stepped outside to walk to our fireworks watching location, so he was awake to witmess his first fourth of July fireworks. He watched them in the sky for a while, then grew more interested in the crowd, not phased by the noise at all. Last year the girls said some funny things while watching the show, and this year was no different. Zoë said, "I wish I were a firework so I could go boom in the sky." Yeah, she was pretty sleepy. Back at home she complained of a headache and had a slight fever... I told her that's what happens when you stay up past your bedtime.
Zoë and Abby snuggled up on each side of Chris on the picnic blanket, while Enzo and stood on the sidewalk. Enzo had woken up as soon as we stepped outside to walk to our fireworks watching location, so he was awake to witmess his first fourth of July fireworks. He watched them in the sky for a while, then grew more interested in the crowd, not phased by the noise at all. Last year the girls said some funny things while watching the show, and this year was no different. Zoë said, "I wish I were a firework so I could go boom in the sky." Yeah, she was pretty sleepy. Back at home she complained of a headache and had a slight fever... I told her that's what happens when you stay up past your bedtime.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 22 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 22 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 12 days Holidays posted by Laura at 10:21 PM | Comment
Picnic Dinner
I made salads, and packed some bread with hummus, pineapple, and cookies to take to Pierce Island to have a picnic next to the playground. Chris decided that he'd ride my bike over with Enzo, while the girls and I walked. Enzo was happy to get another bike ride in today. He and I took a ride through the park and back home earlier in the day. We always get lots of comments and questions when out with Enzo in the bike seat.
Zoë and Abby had some salad and then were ready to play on the playground. After Chris finished his salad and had some pineapple, he took the girls for a walk around the path and by the water. Enzo got a chance to crawl around in the grass. With paci in place, he just felt it tickle his feet and ran his hands through it as opposed to eating it. After the girls had a couple more minutes of playground time, we headed back home to wind down before the fireworks.
Zoë and Abby had some salad and then were ready to play on the playground. After Chris finished his salad and had some pineapple, he took the girls for a walk around the path and by the water. Enzo got a chance to crawl around in the grass. With paci in place, he just felt it tickle his feet and ran his hands through it as opposed to eating it. After the girls had a couple more minutes of playground time, we headed back home to wind down before the fireworks.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 21 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 21 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 11 days News posted by Laura at 6:06 PM | Comment
July 4th 2009
Bread Machine Jelly
We got this recipe from recipezaar.com. The first time we made it Chris used tropical juice and it made two large canning jars full. This time we decided to go with a traditional flavor and used grape juice.
3 Cups Fruit Juice (or 1lb. fresh fruit)
1 (one ounce) box pectin - low or no sugar variety
1Tbs. lemon juice
1 cup sugar
Select wether you're making jelly (use fruit juice) or jam (use fresh fruit). Place the ingredients in the bread machine pan and select the jam/jelly cycle and press start.
When machine is complete, pour into jars, cool, and store in the fridge.
3 Cups Fruit Juice (or 1lb. fresh fruit)
1 (one ounce) box pectin - low or no sugar variety
1Tbs. lemon juice
1 cup sugar
Select wether you're making jelly (use fruit juice) or jam (use fresh fruit). Place the ingredients in the bread machine pan and select the jam/jelly cycle and press start.
When machine is complete, pour into jars, cool, and store in the fridge.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 20 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 20 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 10 days Recipes posted by Laura at 5:03 PM | Comment
Home Depot Kids Workshop Picnic Caddy
We were happily surprised that even though the first Saturday of the month fell on the holiday, Home Depot was still doing the workshop. We got there at probably 9:30 and were the first and only people there. Eventually, as we were finishing up two more parents with their kids came. Since it was so open, "Depot Don" came over and helped Zoë do her caddy, while Chris worked with Abby. Zoë and Abby will end up being the poster girls this year I think because another worker was taking lots of pictures of Don working with them.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 20 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 20 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 10 days Art posted by Laura at 10:52 AM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
What a beautiful day to be outside working on a project. You girls are learning so much.
July 3rd 2009
Reading Program Mix-Up
I had just put up the calendar of summer events paper that I got from the library and noticed in the top row that the reading program kick-off was for Thursday with a rain date of Friday. We were all excited that we'd be able to go to it since the weather wasn't so bad, and we were even seeing breaks of sun. Kate decided to meet us at our house and go have a picnic with us at Four Tree Island for the kick-off. Well, we got over there and there was nothing. We had our picnic anyway, and the girls played on the playground so it wasn't a complete loss. I realized later that the top row was not the first week of July but rather the last week of June. I felt so badly for the girls that I'd messed up the weeks, as the 26th would've been nice enough for them to hold it. We've gone the past two years so I'm feeling pretty guilty about this one.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 19 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 19 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 9 days News posted by Laura at 2:49 PM | Comment
One Hundred Push Up Week Four Day Two
Abby was off to a rough start today. She forgot how to do push ups this morning and was emotional about it. Zoë picked it up right away. Both girls managed to finish up strong despite the rocky start. We might do the day three on Sunday and try to get back to our normal M-W-F schedule for week five.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 19 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 19 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 9 days News posted by christopher at 10:23 AM | Comment
Enzo's First Bike Ride
Enzo had his first bike ride this morning. Thanks to Papa Norm I was not only able to get my used bike, but I also got Enzo a bike seat. It's called a kangaroo seat by WeeRide and it goes in front of the rider. I feel much better about Enzo being in front of me when I'm riding rather than in back. We took a ride to the post office, through the park. On the way home Enzo made use of the padded rest that sits between the handlebars... he rested his head and started to fall asleep.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 19 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 19 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 9 days First Moments posted by Laura at 9:47 AM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Looks like fun for Enzo.
July 2nd 2009
Softbums Giveaway
I just learned that Softbums (the cloth diaper system I currently have) is doing a giveaway for a basic pack of diapers/covers, etc. They're doing the contest to promote their new colors. I entered the contest and I get another entry for writing about it for all of you to see! I love all of the colors we have now, it'd not only be GREAT to add some more accessories for the diapers I already know I like to our stash, but having another color is always fun. Wish me luck!
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 18 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 18 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 8 days News posted by Laura at 8:20 AM | Comment
July 1st 2009
Enzo's First Tooth
After months of me saying that I thought Enzo's tooth were going to be coming, alas he's getting his first one. A few days ago I wondered if one was breaking through as that spot on his gums looked especially red. I didn't say anything though because I've said this so many times. This morning I also thought to myself when I caught a glimpse inside Enzo's mouth, that his tooth was breaking through the gums and started to say something to Chris but then decided, never mind, I'm not even going to say it.
Well, at lunch Corey asked if Enzo had any teeth and I said that he had none but that I thought he may be getting one soon and felt in his mouth to try and show him where, and sure enough I felt the tooth just broken through the gums! I think this explains the super runny nose and extra crankiness and sleepiness. I don't care what the doctors tell me, the girls got at least a little cold if not a low grade fever whenever they had teeth cutting through the gums. It is the bottom front, his right.
Well, at lunch Corey asked if Enzo had any teeth and I said that he had none but that I thought he may be getting one soon and felt in his mouth to try and show him where, and sure enough I felt the tooth just broken through the gums! I think this explains the super runny nose and extra crankiness and sleepiness. I don't care what the doctors tell me, the girls got at least a little cold if not a low grade fever whenever they had teeth cutting through the gums. It is the bottom front, his right.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 17 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 17 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 7 days Baby Teeth posted by Laura at 1:43 PM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Hurray, Enzo's first tooth!!
Level Three Day 2
The lessons ended up being canceled today. It wasn't raining, though our walk there was a bit misty, but the temperature was a bit cooler than yesterday. I guess there are a few different things that have to be taken into account with the decision to keep the pool open or to close and apparently the cooler temperature tipped the scale. Upon arrival we were sent to the bath house to pick up a booklet in lui of getting into the water.
We did see a beaver on the way home though. We saw him on the way to the pool yesterday, on the other side of the road. Today I got a few pictures of him.
We did see a beaver on the way home though. We saw him on the way to the pool yesterday, on the other side of the road. Today I got a few pictures of him.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 17 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 17 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 7 days Sports posted by Laura at 1:39 PM | Comment
One Hundred Push Up Week Four Day One
The girls started week 4 today. They are half way done with the program and are still going strong. We have noticed their pectorial muscles growing. They are so proud of how strong they are becoming.
Abby @ 5 years, 6 months, 17 days
Zoë @ 5 years, 6 months, 17 days
Enzo @ 9 months, 7 days News posted by christopher at 9:34 AM | Comments ( 1 )
Comments:
Wow!1 halfway to the goal of hundred...great job!! I don't know about getting alot of muscles, though.
