This morning, Clara and Emma slept until 8:30 -unheard of since the start of summer. The joined Mommy at a TRPG event at the JCC with Music for Aardvarks. Clara got very upset at the end because they didn't play her song. "Poopin on a Potty." Good thing Mommy has pull- Clara got her own special concert of the song!
There are many days when Mommy says she is going to change her name. Well, what is a name? Two funny stories about Mommy's name today.
Emma was writing on a card and said "Mommy, I wrote your name- Arin Rachel." And, funny enough, Clara kept screaming "Mommy," and then suddenly switched to "Arin."
Knowing the slept late, Mommy didn't have high hopes for a nap, but told them to sit in their beds and to sing, talk etc. However, they both fell asleep fairly fast for about 1.5 hrs. Not too bad.
This afternoon, the ladies had a date with their friends Jake and Josh. It was hot outside, but they had fun running around!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Emma's Procedure
Today, Emma had some minor diagnostic surgery at Cornell- NY Presbyterian Hospital in NYC to help diagnose the cause of her consitpation. The gang headed out at 7:15 am to the city, not knowing what the traffic would be like. Of course, it was very light and therefore, at not even 8 am, Emma was very early for her 10 am procedure.
Clara and Emma were excited to see Grandpa Sam and Mommy and Daddy are grateful that he could come help. Clara went with Grandpa to get some breakfast, see one of Grandpa's friends and walk around the hospital.
Emma was terrific with the nurse as she was weighed (27.5 lbs) and her temp and blood pressure taken. She didn't even complain about her fancy tiger hospital pjs with yellow socks. She walked out, blankie in hand, and went to play. It was a long wait, but she got to color, play with the farmhouse, on the computer and hang out with Mommy, Daddy, Clara and Grandpa.
She didn't like when it was time to go in to the OR and held on to Mommy and screamed "no." The nurses were great and gave her the mask and while screaming, she drifted off. It was the hardest time for Mommy of all four surgeries between the girls. The procedure was only about 15 minutes.
Emma was peaceful and sleeping in her bed.Before Emma woke up, Grandpa came in with Clara. Clara wasn't sure what to make of it all, and Daddy took her right back outside where she got to see the clowns from Big Apple Circus. According to a nurse, Clara asked one of the clowns why her red nose was so big.Mommy and Daddy were anticipating quite a rocky wake up for Emma based on the previous surgical experience. After warning all the doctors, they let her sleep and didn't try and wake her. Emma woke up, fussed for less than a second, and asked for juice. She seemed groggy, but fine! She downed two apple juices and couldn't get cheerios fast enough. She wasn't a fan of getting the IV out, but again, handled it very well, as the nurse distracted her to the barbie stickers on her band aid.
Mommy and Daddy, together with Grandpa Sam, took the ladies up the street for some food. Emma had a hard time walking because she was groggy, but had some more apple juice and some muffin. Clara was tired and even expressing that she was and started her singing of words. Mommy loaded them in the car, drove crosstown (a first) and headed up the Saw Mill home. Both ladies slept on the way home and were totally out of it when Mommy pulled in. Mommy decided some downtime with Sesame Street was appropriate and everyone rested.
Emma wanted some graham crackers and then Mommy took the kids outside. Clara, decked out in her blue tutu and butterfly wings, danced in the cul-de-sac singing. Emma rested and then decided to join her and be her "prince." Clara would pretend cry (rubbing her eye and making crying noises) and Emma would come and say "Your prince is here." Clara would open her eyes an smile and they'd hug and say "let's dance at the ball."
They also did "Sleeping Beauty." Emma pretended to sleep and Clara came over, kissed her on the cheek and she woke up.
The ladies ran over to their friend Kayla's house for a little impromptu playdate. Mommy was about to make dinner when Daddy called saying he was heading home and asked if the kids were up for meeting him at the diner. So, the gang headed to Metro Diner and met Daddy for dinner. Clara was in rare form- after her 3rd cup of chocolate milk today- she started singing everything and being super silly.
A very long day, but everything went well!
Clara and Emma were excited to see Grandpa Sam and Mommy and Daddy are grateful that he could come help. Clara went with Grandpa to get some breakfast, see one of Grandpa's friends and walk around the hospital.
Emma was terrific with the nurse as she was weighed (27.5 lbs) and her temp and blood pressure taken. She didn't even complain about her fancy tiger hospital pjs with yellow socks. She walked out, blankie in hand, and went to play. It was a long wait, but she got to color, play with the farmhouse, on the computer and hang out with Mommy, Daddy, Clara and Grandpa.
She didn't like when it was time to go in to the OR and held on to Mommy and screamed "no." The nurses were great and gave her the mask and while screaming, she drifted off. It was the hardest time for Mommy of all four surgeries between the girls. The procedure was only about 15 minutes.
Emma was peaceful and sleeping in her bed.Before Emma woke up, Grandpa came in with Clara. Clara wasn't sure what to make of it all, and Daddy took her right back outside where she got to see the clowns from Big Apple Circus. According to a nurse, Clara asked one of the clowns why her red nose was so big.Mommy and Daddy were anticipating quite a rocky wake up for Emma based on the previous surgical experience. After warning all the doctors, they let her sleep and didn't try and wake her. Emma woke up, fussed for less than a second, and asked for juice. She seemed groggy, but fine! She downed two apple juices and couldn't get cheerios fast enough. She wasn't a fan of getting the IV out, but again, handled it very well, as the nurse distracted her to the barbie stickers on her band aid.
Mommy and Daddy, together with Grandpa Sam, took the ladies up the street for some food. Emma had a hard time walking because she was groggy, but had some more apple juice and some muffin. Clara was tired and even expressing that she was and started her singing of words. Mommy loaded them in the car, drove crosstown (a first) and headed up the Saw Mill home. Both ladies slept on the way home and were totally out of it when Mommy pulled in. Mommy decided some downtime with Sesame Street was appropriate and everyone rested.
Emma wanted some graham crackers and then Mommy took the kids outside. Clara, decked out in her blue tutu and butterfly wings, danced in the cul-de-sac singing. Emma rested and then decided to join her and be her "prince." Clara would pretend cry (rubbing her eye and making crying noises) and Emma would come and say "Your prince is here." Clara would open her eyes an smile and they'd hug and say "let's dance at the ball."
They also did "Sleeping Beauty." Emma pretended to sleep and Clara came over, kissed her on the cheek and she woke up.
The ladies ran over to their friend Kayla's house for a little impromptu playdate. Mommy was about to make dinner when Daddy called saying he was heading home and asked if the kids were up for meeting him at the diner. So, the gang headed to Metro Diner and met Daddy for dinner. Clara was in rare form- after her 3rd cup of chocolate milk today- she started singing everything and being super silly.
A very long day, but everything went well!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
New Shoes!
Mommy needed to buy new slippers, socks and shoes for the kids (and clothes too, but much of that is online). So Daddy, Clara and Emma joined Mommy at the mall. Clara and Emma loved running around and saying hi to everyone in the stores.
Like many of Mommy's friends recently, Mommy discovered that Clara and Emma had outgrown their shoes. Mommy knew Clara needed sneakers - but didn't know that Emma did too. Good thing for Stride Rite's buy 1 get 1 50% off ( they don't offer a twin discount anymore :()
Clara is a 7.5 so we got her an 8 and Emma is a 7 so we got her a 7.5.
Sunday featured a playdate with friend Jack at his pool. Emma could eat up until 12 and then was only allowed clear liquids- which she wasn't so interested in. Distraction was key- and the game of the day.
Like many of Mommy's friends recently, Mommy discovered that Clara and Emma had outgrown their shoes. Mommy knew Clara needed sneakers - but didn't know that Emma did too. Good thing for Stride Rite's buy 1 get 1 50% off ( they don't offer a twin discount anymore :()
Clara is a 7.5 so we got her an 8 and Emma is a 7 so we got her a 7.5.
Sunday featured a playdate with friend Jack at his pool. Emma could eat up until 12 and then was only allowed clear liquids- which she wasn't so interested in. Distraction was key- and the game of the day.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Clara's Last EI Session
On Thursday, the kids had their last Super Soccer Stars class. It was so much fun because twin friends Eitan and Micah were there too- and Mommy didn't even plan it!
The morning featured Clara's last early intervention speech session, as in a few weeks she'll move to speech at a center through CPSE.
In the afternoon, the ladies enjoyed seeing twin friends Justin and Chloe at the remodled playground at the elementary school in Edgemont. It is definitely meant for older kids and the older, little one, was much better for the kids.
Clara and Emma called Grandma and Grandpa Frome. Grandma answered and with no prompting, Emma asked "How is Grandpa feeling today?" She has quite a memory.
The morning featured Clara's last early intervention speech session, as in a few weeks she'll move to speech at a center through CPSE.
In the afternoon, the ladies enjoyed seeing twin friends Justin and Chloe at the remodled playground at the elementary school in Edgemont. It is definitely meant for older kids and the older, little one, was much better for the kids.
Clara and Emma called Grandma and Grandpa Frome. Grandma answered and with no prompting, Emma asked "How is Grandpa feeling today?" She has quite a memory.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Take Your Kid Seriously
Clara and Emma both have a new thing. They bump a finger or toe and do their crying about it and then say they need ice, and stand at the freezer door until the ice pack is taken out for them. It is cheaper than the band aids they usually require.
Here's one thing that teaches you that it is important to take your kids seriously. Emma took the potty from the dollhouse this morning and said she was going to go pee pee on it. Mommy laughed and said, "Emma, we go on a real potty." While Mommy was turned away and changing Clara, Emma yelled "uh oh." You betcha. She literally squatted on the dollhouse potty, pants down and all. Cleaning up that mess was a great start to the day!
Clara woke up from her nap saying she had to go to the bathroom. She sat on the potty, went and then looked up at Mommy with a big smile and said "Mommy, are you proud of me?" Mommy responded that she was. Clara said, "Now I get Kai Lan doll." Maybe she'll just keep going and saying that she's going to get that doll, and Mommy and Daddy won't have to get it for her!
Over the past few weeks, Mommy and Daddy have noticed how much Clara likes to tease Emma. Clara fully knows how ot push Emma's buttons and tries to do it at every opportunity and then acts as if she doesnt know what she did. She even said to Mommy "I don't want to tell you," during a conversation about what she did.
This afternoon, Clara and Emma enjoyed a playdate with Sonya and Remy at World Cup's drop in- a great place for them to run around and keep them occupied. Soft floors, rings to hang from, a bar, cars to ride, hula hoops, and more! It was a nice afternoon.
Here's one thing that teaches you that it is important to take your kids seriously. Emma took the potty from the dollhouse this morning and said she was going to go pee pee on it. Mommy laughed and said, "Emma, we go on a real potty." While Mommy was turned away and changing Clara, Emma yelled "uh oh." You betcha. She literally squatted on the dollhouse potty, pants down and all. Cleaning up that mess was a great start to the day!
Clara woke up from her nap saying she had to go to the bathroom. She sat on the potty, went and then looked up at Mommy with a big smile and said "Mommy, are you proud of me?" Mommy responded that she was. Clara said, "Now I get Kai Lan doll." Maybe she'll just keep going and saying that she's going to get that doll, and Mommy and Daddy won't have to get it for her!
Over the past few weeks, Mommy and Daddy have noticed how much Clara likes to tease Emma. Clara fully knows how ot push Emma's buttons and tries to do it at every opportunity and then acts as if she doesnt know what she did. She even said to Mommy "I don't want to tell you," during a conversation about what she did.
This afternoon, Clara and Emma enjoyed a playdate with Sonya and Remy at World Cup's drop in- a great place for them to run around and keep them occupied. Soft floors, rings to hang from, a bar, cars to ride, hula hoops, and more! It was a nice afternoon.
But I Want One Too
Clara and Emma were especially tired today. It was another rainy and gloomy day and even though they slept later than they have all summer (7:30 am), they seemed off. Clara almost fell asleep in the car on the way to Mamaroneck. The ladies enjoyed making their own bears (well, a pink and white poodle for Clara and an elephant for Emma) at Dino Dig USA with TRPG. It was a great morning of fun!
The afternoon featured a playdate at the Nicassio house and some meltdowns on the way home.. oh well.
Please forgive the graphic nature of this post, but these experiences need to be written about...
Mommy gave Emma her first 1/4 of chocolate flavored exlax. Knowing full well that Clara would want some too, Mommy gave her and then Emma and M &M.
Mommy followed the orders from Emma's GI and gave Emma an enema. Both Mommy and Daddy had no idea what they were doing, but somehow got through it. Poor Emma screamed all the way through. Clara sat there talking to Emma, eating a cookie and in her words "waiting my turn." Yes, you got it, Clara wanted to do it too. While it didn't take the 1-5 minutes that it said it would according to the package, Emma finally pooped.
The afternoon featured a playdate at the Nicassio house and some meltdowns on the way home.. oh well.
Please forgive the graphic nature of this post, but these experiences need to be written about...
Mommy gave Emma her first 1/4 of chocolate flavored exlax. Knowing full well that Clara would want some too, Mommy gave her and then Emma and M &M.
Mommy followed the orders from Emma's GI and gave Emma an enema. Both Mommy and Daddy had no idea what they were doing, but somehow got through it. Poor Emma screamed all the way through. Clara sat there talking to Emma, eating a cookie and in her words "waiting my turn." Yes, you got it, Clara wanted to do it too. While it didn't take the 1-5 minutes that it said it would according to the package, Emma finally pooped.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
A Very Rainy NYC Sort Of Day
Emma had a doctor appointment in the city and Daddy drove the gang in. Mommy's plans all fell through because most everything indoors to do was closed (it was Monday). Mommy made it to FAO Schwarz before the downpour. The kids liked visiting with all the stuffed animals and seeing the puppets. The elevator was broken, so Mommy couldn't take the kids upstairs or downstairs. Finally, Mommy decided to brave it and made it a block to Crate and Barrel. Soaked- Mommy braved it and had the little ladies in their rain boots tuck their legs and used the stroller cover to protect them and made it to Dylan's Candy Store. The ladies loved looking at the candy stairwell and wanted everything at the store. Mommy took them upstairs where they got mini pink cupcakes and were so excited to sit and eat them. The rain finally let up, so Mommy was ready to walk a little more north to get lunch- but Clara, followed by Emma fell asleep in the stroller and the place Mommy wanted to go, that was stroller friendly- was closed. Mommy took the kids early to Emma's doctor appointment, but they didn't mind and were able to see her fairly quickly.
The two sat in the doctor's office exchanging "mean witch" faces and making each other laugh. These "mean witch" faces are their "mean faces," where they both look down and Clara rolls her eyes back.
Daddy was able to come, which was very helpful and for the first time, Mommy and Daddy felt that progress was being made with Emma. Emma had blood word (screamed and kicked during it, but made it through) and will try a few new things- a chocolate laxative (she hates taking the miralax and it is hit or miss with what she gets in), an enema for a few days. Next Monday, Emma will have a small procedure done at the hospital to help figure out what is going on.
Mommy enjoyed a late afternoon and evening in city with friends at Zengo- fun!
The two sat in the doctor's office exchanging "mean witch" faces and making each other laugh. These "mean witch" faces are their "mean faces," where they both look down and Clara rolls her eyes back.
Daddy was able to come, which was very helpful and for the first time, Mommy and Daddy felt that progress was being made with Emma. Emma had blood word (screamed and kicked during it, but made it through) and will try a few new things- a chocolate laxative (she hates taking the miralax and it is hit or miss with what she gets in), an enema for a few days. Next Monday, Emma will have a small procedure done at the hospital to help figure out what is going on.
Mommy enjoyed a late afternoon and evening in city with friends at Zengo- fun!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Rainy Sunday
On Saturday, Mommy and Daddy took Clara and Emma to a trial glass at Gymcats. It was a mixed age class for 3 year olds + and they went right in (no Mommy or Daddy allowed), sat down and started warming up. They were split into groups and did rings, jumping, balance beam, and more. They loved it. Afterwards, it was off to the Hastings Farmers Market for some shopping and of course, pickles, juice and music.
Clara chose her bike and Emma chose her scooter to pack in the car and bring to the Ardsley Middle School- aka a parking lot with mostly flat ground. After a quick stop at Carvel for ice cream, Clara did a great job of riding the bike by herself. Emma, with encouragement, tried both and did a nice job too!
Emma's hair has been growing and was in her eyes again. Since she doesn't really need a haircut and Mommy ideally would like to wait a bit longer, Mommy cut Emma's hair for the second time this summer- just a little trim to get the hair out of her eyes. Props to Mommy- it looks pretty good!
It was a very rainy and wet day. Last night wasn't a good nite and Mommy slept on the floor with Emma all night, while Clara slept with Daddy in bed. Emma woke up screaming and only wanted to be on the floor. Oy. Clara
Clara and Emma were excited to have an outing in the rain, and couldn't wait to get their boots on! They enjoyed lunch at the Fountain Diner in Hartsdale- the waiter looked perplexed when they started ordering their own food. Mommy and Daddy just shook their heads yes. Their orders are predictable- grilled cheese, fries and chocolate milk (although today Emma ordered juice).
After their nap, Mommy broke out the "rainy day activities." The ladies enjoyed painting suncatchers and baking muffins. They loved watching Mary Poppins and singing along to their favorite "Supercalifragilisticexpealicdocious" song.
What would a rainy day without pizza for dinner? Gobbled up by the ladies and followed by strawberry ice cream pops aka yogurt squeeze tubes frozen!
Clara chose her bike and Emma chose her scooter to pack in the car and bring to the Ardsley Middle School- aka a parking lot with mostly flat ground. After a quick stop at Carvel for ice cream, Clara did a great job of riding the bike by herself. Emma, with encouragement, tried both and did a nice job too!
Emma's hair has been growing and was in her eyes again. Since she doesn't really need a haircut and Mommy ideally would like to wait a bit longer, Mommy cut Emma's hair for the second time this summer- just a little trim to get the hair out of her eyes. Props to Mommy- it looks pretty good!
It was a very rainy and wet day. Last night wasn't a good nite and Mommy slept on the floor with Emma all night, while Clara slept with Daddy in bed. Emma woke up screaming and only wanted to be on the floor. Oy. Clara
Clara and Emma were excited to have an outing in the rain, and couldn't wait to get their boots on! They enjoyed lunch at the Fountain Diner in Hartsdale- the waiter looked perplexed when they started ordering their own food. Mommy and Daddy just shook their heads yes. Their orders are predictable- grilled cheese, fries and chocolate milk (although today Emma ordered juice).
After their nap, Mommy broke out the "rainy day activities." The ladies enjoyed painting suncatchers and baking muffins. They loved watching Mary Poppins and singing along to their favorite "Supercalifragilisticexpealicdocious" song.
What would a rainy day without pizza for dinner? Gobbled up by the ladies and followed by strawberry ice cream pops aka yogurt squeeze tubes frozen!
Friday, August 20, 2010
Lake Canopus
Thursday was a rough day at the Gornstein house. Mommy tried putting the kids in babysitting at the JCC- but it was full. Mommy tried the gym again- also full. A little frustrating way to start the day. Clara and Emma came with Mommy to an event for new parents and played with their bubble wands and greeted all the little babies. They were both so tired and protested napping- Mommy probably should have tried to put them down earlier than she did.Mommy was ready for them to skip their nap and headed out to a playdate, but even before pulling out of the driveway, both ladies fell asleep and Mommy drove around for over an hour. Mommy was convinced that because they had a late nap that they'd have a hard time falling asleep- nope- easiest night all summer. Go figure.
On Friday, Mommy drove up to Cold Spring to Lake Canopus and met friends Naomi and twin boys, Micah and Eitan. It is a lovely beach and lake. The kids LOVED playing in the sand and water. Clara was happy to dive right in and swim around- even going under water a few times. Good news is that they slept on the way home!
On Friday, Mommy drove up to Cold Spring to Lake Canopus and met friends Naomi and twin boys, Micah and Eitan. It is a lovely beach and lake. The kids LOVED playing in the sand and water. Clara was happy to dive right in and swim around- even going under water a few times. Good news is that they slept on the way home!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Soccer Fun
Mommy was very excited to motivate after Clara's speech session and get the kids to the gym so Mommy could spin. However, there was no room in babysitting since camp is over and everyone is trying to do the same thing as Mommy- bummer. Clara cried and Emma screamed until Mommy reminded them that they were going to soccer.
Soccer was just Clara and Emma and a coach and it was great. They both had a great time and did well kicking and stopping the ball. As a treat, Mommy took them to the new fro yo place in Scarsdale. It is self serve- both yogurt and toppings. It was yummy- but the cost was exorbitant.
Mommy put the yawning ladies down for a nap a bit early a little early and slept with them. Mommy got up to leave and they woke up, but at least they napped! They were happy to go visit friend Ashley. Emma had an accident (Mommy's fault for not making her go) and Clara pooped on the potty (after at least 6 trips to the potty to try). She even got a sticker (thank goodness for friends with prizes!).
After dinner, there was plenty of imaginative play- much of which needed a referee and featured more pushing and crying by both little ladies. Emma wanted to make a party- with a fancy tablecloth aka her blanket. They both went and got dresses and put them over their clothes and announced it was their birthday. Emma even told Clara that she had to leave the party because she was making her upset. Oy. The pink blanket became the birthday cake- which Clara carried over to Emma singing "happy birthday." Emma even managed to pretend to blow out the candles on the cake and Clara served it. Emma decided it was time to "play games" and put a blindfold on Clara, who then asked to be spinned around. Clara and Emma then do "bake the cake" where they both baked each other and frosted each other.
All in a day of two 3 year olds!
Soccer was just Clara and Emma and a coach and it was great. They both had a great time and did well kicking and stopping the ball. As a treat, Mommy took them to the new fro yo place in Scarsdale. It is self serve- both yogurt and toppings. It was yummy- but the cost was exorbitant.
Mommy put the yawning ladies down for a nap a bit early a little early and slept with them. Mommy got up to leave and they woke up, but at least they napped! They were happy to go visit friend Ashley. Emma had an accident (Mommy's fault for not making her go) and Clara pooped on the potty (after at least 6 trips to the potty to try). She even got a sticker (thank goodness for friends with prizes!).
After dinner, there was plenty of imaginative play- much of which needed a referee and featured more pushing and crying by both little ladies. Emma wanted to make a party- with a fancy tablecloth aka her blanket. They both went and got dresses and put them over their clothes and announced it was their birthday. Emma even told Clara that she had to leave the party because she was making her upset. Oy. The pink blanket became the birthday cake- which Clara carried over to Emma singing "happy birthday." Emma even managed to pretend to blow out the candles on the cake and Clara served it. Emma decided it was time to "play games" and put a blindfold on Clara, who then asked to be spinned around. Clara and Emma then do "bake the cake" where they both baked each other and frosted each other.
All in a day of two 3 year olds!
A Vacation Comes to An End
Saturday was a fun morning the beach. In the afternoon, the ladies enjoyed a visit to the pool and their first rainbow ices with Grandma and Mommy before heading back to hang out with Grandma and Grandpa Frome.
On the way home from the beach, Clara and Emma were talking about their friends and going to school with Laurie and Helene- their 2's teachers. Emma was talking about how much she loved riding the horsey at school. Mommy reminded them that they are big girls now and going to the 3s and that their neighbor friends, Shana and Kayla are going to go with Laurie and Helene and that they'll have new teachers.
At least for the next hour, Emma kept saying, "we're going to the 3's class. Shana and Kayla are going to be in the 2's. We're big girls now." Mommy hopes they get it a little and wants to give them a little preparation because they do remember and it is going to be a big surprise in a few weeks when school starts.
A highlight of the drive home was the stop at the farmers market - awesome sweet cantelopes, watermelon and pineapples to taste.
Emma and Clara have demanded Fancy Nancy (hardcover original) and the new ones that Grandma and Grandpa got for them at the beach- one about a pajama day even features a little girl named Clara, so now Mommy changes the name of the other kid to Emma- they talk about being twins because they wear the same outfit, so it works..
And the transition to the big adult potty has been smooth. Mommy put the pink potties in the bathroom (they had been in the kitchen) around the time of their birthdays. At the beach and now at home, they know to run to the bathroom and go. This at least, was smooth.
On the way home from the beach, Clara and Emma were talking about their friends and going to school with Laurie and Helene- their 2's teachers. Emma was talking about how much she loved riding the horsey at school. Mommy reminded them that they are big girls now and going to the 3s and that their neighbor friends, Shana and Kayla are going to go with Laurie and Helene and that they'll have new teachers.
At least for the next hour, Emma kept saying, "we're going to the 3's class. Shana and Kayla are going to be in the 2's. We're big girls now." Mommy hopes they get it a little and wants to give them a little preparation because they do remember and it is going to be a big surprise in a few weeks when school starts.
A highlight of the drive home was the stop at the farmers market - awesome sweet cantelopes, watermelon and pineapples to taste.
Emma and Clara have demanded Fancy Nancy (hardcover original) and the new ones that Grandma and Grandpa got for them at the beach- one about a pajama day even features a little girl named Clara, so now Mommy changes the name of the other kid to Emma- they talk about being twins because they wear the same outfit, so it works..
And the transition to the big adult potty has been smooth. Mommy put the pink potties in the bathroom (they had been in the kitchen) around the time of their birthdays. At the beach and now at home, they know to run to the bathroom and go. This at least, was smooth.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
The Very First No Nap Day
Today was a jam packed day with twists and turns.
Emma screamed at 5 am and Mommy went in and sat with her and she and Clara managed to sleep until 7. In the car, Mommy reminded Clara and Emma that they needed to go potty when they got to Kidville. Clara said "Mommy, I went at home already. I'm a big girl. I did it myself." Emma followed with "Clara, but you need an adult to watch you." The ladies enjoyed a TRPG event at Kidville- a camp morning- filled with gym, arts and crafts and music. It was lots of fun! Their friends from school/camp, Jack and Abby were there. So was neighbor Shana and twin friends Chole and Justin.
Mommy was ambitious and drove about an hour (with a detour for getting a little lost) to Fishkill Farm- for peach and apple picking. On the way there, Emma announced that she and Clara were "best friends forever." Clara continued her habit - especially when she is tired- to sing her sentences. A short activity, they tried the homemade donuts (yes Daddy, Mommy got you some too), loved picking the low hanging fruit (which is a funny term for Mommy since it is used in fundraising to refer to those that will "be easy to get") and didn't love the walk back to the car from the orchard - which wasn't really that long, but Emma had a tough time while Clara ran the whole way. They were exhausted on the way home, hot and just overtired and fought most of the way.
TV, a new pedicure (bright blue again for Clara and orange for Emma) and lots of running around screaming highlighted the afternoon.
So- Mommy will take it day by day. Obviously, the kids are exhausted and could have napped. It may mean a nap every other day or today is a fluke. Let the experiment begin...
Emma screamed at 5 am and Mommy went in and sat with her and she and Clara managed to sleep until 7. In the car, Mommy reminded Clara and Emma that they needed to go potty when they got to Kidville. Clara said "Mommy, I went at home already. I'm a big girl. I did it myself." Emma followed with "Clara, but you need an adult to watch you." The ladies enjoyed a TRPG event at Kidville- a camp morning- filled with gym, arts and crafts and music. It was lots of fun! Their friends from school/camp, Jack and Abby were there. So was neighbor Shana and twin friends Chole and Justin.
Mommy was ambitious and drove about an hour (with a detour for getting a little lost) to Fishkill Farm- for peach and apple picking. On the way there, Emma announced that she and Clara were "best friends forever." Clara continued her habit - especially when she is tired- to sing her sentences. A short activity, they tried the homemade donuts (yes Daddy, Mommy got you some too), loved picking the low hanging fruit (which is a funny term for Mommy since it is used in fundraising to refer to those that will "be easy to get") and didn't love the walk back to the car from the orchard - which wasn't really that long, but Emma had a tough time while Clara ran the whole way. They were exhausted on the way home, hot and just overtired and fought most of the way.
TV, a new pedicure (bright blue again for Clara and orange for Emma) and lots of running around screaming highlighted the afternoon.
So- Mommy will take it day by day. Obviously, the kids are exhausted and could have napped. It may mean a nap every other day or today is a fluke. Let the experiment begin...
Friday, August 13, 2010
Sandy Friday
Mommy took the ladies to the beach at 8 am to meet Grandpa Frome. It was a little windy and a tropical depression had caused large waves and the foam to come ashore. The early morning was spent blowing bubbles, building some cupcake sandcastles and checking out the neat, but dangerous ocean. Before Grandpa headed back up to his apartment to rest, he was standing with Clara and Emma watching the ocean on the ledge thad was created by the storm and a wave came up and splashed everyone- while they got wet and maybe were a little scared, they did a great job recovering and wanted to go back for more. Uncle Adam, Aunt Christina, Lucas, Noah, Grandma and Daddy came to play too. The waves caused everyone to have to move back 4 times - and caused a river on the beach, but the kids loved hanging out in it and digging, swimming, jumping, running and overall, having a blast.
By 1, Mommy and Daddy got Clara and Emma back for a nap, after trying to get all the sand off of them. Clara woke up after an 1.5 hours saying she had to poop- and she went on the potty and did- a huge step for Clara. Mommy made a big deal and promised Clara when she gets home, she'll get her Kai Lan doll. Hopefully, Clara will continue pooping on the potty and not in her pull up.
The gals headed to the pool to hang out for a little, but it wasn't too warm and Mommy took them to Grandma and Grandpa's to change and play Candyland before heading out to Phillips for dinner with everyone. Emma's new favorite treat- as she calls it, "vanilla ice cream with whooping cream." Yes, that is whip cream to the rest of the world. Clara of course, doesn't like it and Emma is thrilled to eat Clara's too.
The ladies have really done a great job all week going out to dinner at night. Even though they are tired, they have mostly behaved well.
Tonight, everyone said goodbye to Uncle Adam, Aunt Christina, Lucas and Noah as they headed off to a cAunt Christina's medical conference in the Chesapeake before returning to Texas. It was really fun to spend the week together and awesome to watch the kids play together and run up to each other and give hugs and kisses.
By 1, Mommy and Daddy got Clara and Emma back for a nap, after trying to get all the sand off of them. Clara woke up after an 1.5 hours saying she had to poop- and she went on the potty and did- a huge step for Clara. Mommy made a big deal and promised Clara when she gets home, she'll get her Kai Lan doll. Hopefully, Clara will continue pooping on the potty and not in her pull up.
The gals headed to the pool to hang out for a little, but it wasn't too warm and Mommy took them to Grandma and Grandpa's to change and play Candyland before heading out to Phillips for dinner with everyone. Emma's new favorite treat- as she calls it, "vanilla ice cream with whooping cream." Yes, that is whip cream to the rest of the world. Clara of course, doesn't like it and Emma is thrilled to eat Clara's too.
The ladies have really done a great job all week going out to dinner at night. Even though they are tired, they have mostly behaved well.
Tonight, everyone said goodbye to Uncle Adam, Aunt Christina, Lucas and Noah as they headed off to a cAunt Christina's medical conference in the Chesapeake before returning to Texas. It was really fun to spend the week together and awesome to watch the kids play together and run up to each other and give hugs and kisses.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Rainy Beach Day
The morning started out in Bethany at the boardwalk where the ladies enjoyed some donuts with Daddy. While Daddy did work, Mommy took the kids to Grandma and Grandpa's apartment. It started to rain, so for the morning, this is where everyone gathered. Some games of Candyland, a little tv, lunch, and lots of Grandpa "baking" the kids into cake (rolling them, patting them, putting in raisins or chocolate chips, baking them, frosting them, cutting them up etc).
Clara and Emma were so excited to go back to Rehoboth and go on the rides.
Mommy took Emma on the racing car roller coaster- it went really fast and Emma buried herself in Mommy, but she didn't cry or get upset and said she had fun. Mommy also did the bumper cars and a few games of whac a mole (Emma also did one herself and has a future, as she scored some points)!
For dinner, everyone enjoyed eating at Dogfish Head. It is a local brewery in Rehoboth (and also has some other locations, including by Grandma and Grandpa Frome in MD, that Mommy and Daddy went to a few months ago). The beer was great and the food was also yummy.
Clara and Emma were so excited to go back to Rehoboth and go on the rides.
Mommy took Emma on the racing car roller coaster- it went really fast and Emma buried herself in Mommy, but she didn't cry or get upset and said she had fun. Mommy also did the bumper cars and a few games of whac a mole (Emma also did one herself and has a future, as she scored some points)!
For dinner, everyone enjoyed eating at Dogfish Head. It is a local brewery in Rehoboth (and also has some other locations, including by Grandma and Grandpa Frome in MD, that Mommy and Daddy went to a few months ago). The beer was great and the food was also yummy.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Pool Time
Clara and Emma were excited to get a smoothie and share Daddy's bagel in Bethany. Mommy took them to the baby pool, where they had a blast with their toys and floats. Grandma and Auntie Alyssa came too and it they loved showing her how they can swim.
Clara and Emma headed to Grandma and Grandpa's apartment for lunch so they could visit with Grandpa a bit. The ladies took a nap in their beds -thank goodness.
Auntie Alyssa joined the Gornstein gang for dinner in Bethany at the Penguin Diner. Clara and Emma liked walking around and seeing all the little animals outside the stores and looking at the hermit crabs in the cages.
Mommy and Daddy took the ladies to the beach to fly the kites, and did a good job of pretending, as there was no wind whatsoever! So, it was off to play a little Candyland and say goodnite to Grandma and Grandpa Frome.
Clara and Emma headed to Grandma and Grandpa's apartment for lunch so they could visit with Grandpa a bit. The ladies took a nap in their beds -thank goodness.
Auntie Alyssa joined the Gornstein gang for dinner in Bethany at the Penguin Diner. Clara and Emma liked walking around and seeing all the little animals outside the stores and looking at the hermit crabs in the cages.
Mommy and Daddy took the ladies to the beach to fly the kites, and did a good job of pretending, as there was no wind whatsoever! So, it was off to play a little Candyland and say goodnite to Grandma and Grandpa Frome.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Bethany Beach 2010
The Gornsteins are back in Bethany Beach! All the Fromes are here- Grandma and Grandpa Frome, Uncle Adam and Aunt Christina, Lucas and Noah and Auntie Alyssa.
The gang headed out yesterday morning with Uncle Adam, Aunt Christina, Lucas and Noah. The ladies behaved well on the car ride (thank you dvd player) and while they protested taking a nap, passed out near Bethany. Everyone checked in and then met up at the beach for a quick dip in the ocean and then headed to the pool. Clara couldn't wait to show everyone how she can get her hair wet. Dinner was Grotto's pizza at Grandma and Grandpa's place and was yummy! Everyone was tired, but the Gornstein gang got a little ice cream before heading home. Clara and Emma were so overtired, they had a very hard time sleeping and after a few hours of screaming, Mommy slept with Emma on the floor (all nite) and Daddy slept with Clara in Mommy and Daddy's bed.
Today, Clara and Emma woke up on the early side (6:30) and enjoyed a short drive to the Bethany Boardwalk to meet Grandpa Frome and Auntie Alyssa for breakfast of smoothies and muffins. After dropping Daddy off so he could do work, Mommy headed to the beach with Clara and Emma. For hours, they sat and built sand castles, played in the water and practiced blowing bubbles. It was lots of fun. It was also hot and time for lunch. Emma didn't like getting the sand washed off and Mommy and Daddy decided to head back and try to nap the ladies. No go- they weren't interested. Mommy thought it might be the first day EVER with no nap. So, Mommy told Grandma Frome that the gang was coming over. Everyone hopped in the car and no sooner did Daddy back up, did both ladies pass out. Daddy drove to Ocean City and back and the ladies took a much needed nap in the car.
Clara and Emma were very excited to meet up with everyone at the Rehoboth Boardwalk for rides (the boats, the fire engines with the bell, the cars, the trucks and the planes and the swings). They even got to try whac a mole for the first time (and Emma even scored some points). They played a few games with Aunt Christina and Auntie Alyssa and won some things before heading to, yep, Grotto's. No visit to Rehoboth is complete without eating at Grandma's favorite spot - Grotto's -of course, with a table that has a view of the boardwalk and ocean.
Clara and Emma loved eating spaghetti (after Emma got over that it wasn't eactly the kind of noodles she wanted) and behaved nicely at dinner. Everyone enjoyed ice cream - and Daddy finally got bacon ice cream- which Mommy has been trying to get him for 3 years (they've been out of it in the past).
Clara and Emma enjoyed some more fire truck rides and a few plane rides with Lucas before heading home. On the way home, Clara showed Mommy how she can make a "c" on her etch a sketch (and she did it a few times- so it isn't a fluke). They liked staying up later than usual and were exhausted and tonite, thankfully, after chatting a bit, fell asleep in their beds. YIPEE!!
The gang headed out yesterday morning with Uncle Adam, Aunt Christina, Lucas and Noah. The ladies behaved well on the car ride (thank you dvd player) and while they protested taking a nap, passed out near Bethany. Everyone checked in and then met up at the beach for a quick dip in the ocean and then headed to the pool. Clara couldn't wait to show everyone how she can get her hair wet. Dinner was Grotto's pizza at Grandma and Grandpa's place and was yummy! Everyone was tired, but the Gornstein gang got a little ice cream before heading home. Clara and Emma were so overtired, they had a very hard time sleeping and after a few hours of screaming, Mommy slept with Emma on the floor (all nite) and Daddy slept with Clara in Mommy and Daddy's bed.
Today, Clara and Emma woke up on the early side (6:30) and enjoyed a short drive to the Bethany Boardwalk to meet Grandpa Frome and Auntie Alyssa for breakfast of smoothies and muffins. After dropping Daddy off so he could do work, Mommy headed to the beach with Clara and Emma. For hours, they sat and built sand castles, played in the water and practiced blowing bubbles. It was lots of fun. It was also hot and time for lunch. Emma didn't like getting the sand washed off and Mommy and Daddy decided to head back and try to nap the ladies. No go- they weren't interested. Mommy thought it might be the first day EVER with no nap. So, Mommy told Grandma Frome that the gang was coming over. Everyone hopped in the car and no sooner did Daddy back up, did both ladies pass out. Daddy drove to Ocean City and back and the ladies took a much needed nap in the car.
Clara and Emma were very excited to meet up with everyone at the Rehoboth Boardwalk for rides (the boats, the fire engines with the bell, the cars, the trucks and the planes and the swings). They even got to try whac a mole for the first time (and Emma even scored some points). They played a few games with Aunt Christina and Auntie Alyssa and won some things before heading to, yep, Grotto's. No visit to Rehoboth is complete without eating at Grandma's favorite spot - Grotto's -of course, with a table that has a view of the boardwalk and ocean.
Clara and Emma loved eating spaghetti (after Emma got over that it wasn't eactly the kind of noodles she wanted) and behaved nicely at dinner. Everyone enjoyed ice cream - and Daddy finally got bacon ice cream- which Mommy has been trying to get him for 3 years (they've been out of it in the past).
Clara and Emma enjoyed some more fire truck rides and a few plane rides with Lucas before heading home. On the way home, Clara showed Mommy how she can make a "c" on her etch a sketch (and she did it a few times- so it isn't a fluke). They liked staying up later than usual and were exhausted and tonite, thankfully, after chatting a bit, fell asleep in their beds. YIPEE!!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Last Day of Camp 2010
Today was the last day of camp- cant believe it! Clara and Emma colored thank you cards for their counselors this morning. They joyfully jumped out of the car and had a great morning at camp. When Mommy picked them up, they gave our their thank you cards and said goodbye. It was very sweet. And, their friends didn't understand why they were saying goodbye, until they were told that Clara and Emma are going on vacation next week.
Here is a note from the camp
"The Choo Choo Trains had a busy sixth week of camp. We bagan the week by welcoming Eitan back and celebrating Clara and Emma's third birthdays. We enjoyed our animal themed week. When The Nature of Things visited, Nicholas was excited to learn about Raisinette the chinchilla. She was so soft! Marcia the Musical Moose came to camp and Phil hummed along as she sang. We can't believe that our camp season has only one more week."
p newsletter about camp this week:
In the car today, Emma insisted on hearing only Supercalefragelistic, Poopin on the Potty and Hokey Pokey- the car ride to the beach is going to be fun if these are the only three songs she'll tolerate. It is funny to watch them listen to the Hokey Pokey as they do the motions from their car seat.
This afternoon, it was off to Tobi's house to swim at her pool. Clara and Emma wore their vests and were excited to be in the big pool. Thankfully, there were amazing mother's helpers there that came to help out at the playdate in the pool. Clara and Emma had a blast and it was a fun afternoon with friends. Mommy held a new baby today and Clara, Emma and Justin gathered around and asked if they could tickle his toes and say hi. It was adorable. Emma said "Mommy, why doesn't he talk?"
Tonight, Emma dropped something on the floor and exclaimed, "Oh my god." They enjoyed some marching band for Daddy and acting out something to do with helpers- Mommy thinks they got it from camp- they ask each other if they want to be today's helper and then assign a task.
Here is a note from the camp
"The Choo Choo Trains had a busy sixth week of camp. We bagan the week by welcoming Eitan back and celebrating Clara and Emma's third birthdays. We enjoyed our animal themed week. When The Nature of Things visited, Nicholas was excited to learn about Raisinette the chinchilla. She was so soft! Marcia the Musical Moose came to camp and Phil hummed along as she sang. We can't believe that our camp season has only one more week."
p newsletter about camp this week:
In the car today, Emma insisted on hearing only Supercalefragelistic, Poopin on the Potty and Hokey Pokey- the car ride to the beach is going to be fun if these are the only three songs she'll tolerate. It is funny to watch them listen to the Hokey Pokey as they do the motions from their car seat.
This afternoon, it was off to Tobi's house to swim at her pool. Clara and Emma wore their vests and were excited to be in the big pool. Thankfully, there were amazing mother's helpers there that came to help out at the playdate in the pool. Clara and Emma had a blast and it was a fun afternoon with friends. Mommy held a new baby today and Clara, Emma and Justin gathered around and asked if they could tickle his toes and say hi. It was adorable. Emma said "Mommy, why doesn't he talk?"
Tonight, Emma dropped something on the floor and exclaimed, "Oh my god." They enjoyed some marching band for Daddy and acting out something to do with helpers- Mommy thinks they got it from camp- they ask each other if they want to be today's helper and then assign a task.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Pajama Day At Camp
Clara and Emma were very excited for pajama day and picked out the pajamas they wanted to wear They also had a ton of energy and went for a brief walk before camp and ended up and aneighbor's house playing in their toy car.
In the car on the way home, they talked about the visit from Marcia the Moose at camp. After their nap, it was off to the pool in Hastings to meet up with school friend Gabriella and her siblings. It was lots of fun to play in their little wading pool and the middle size pool where the kids could stand up. Pool dinners are best-they dined on pizza and there was no mess at home!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
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