Clara and Emma

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T19:21:00.001-05:00

The ladies both had fevers last night and therefore, stayed home from school. In the middle of the night, Clara developed a second ear infection (as a follow up to Friday's ear infection)- even though she is on antibiotics already! And, Emma had a cough but by mid day started saying her ear hurt and Mommy took her straight to the doctor and yep, she has an ear infection too.

The kids watched some movies, including their new favorite- Parent Trap (no not the original, but the one from the 90s with Lindsey Lohan).
To end the day, Mommy went to the doctor and also was given antibiotics!
The gang enjoyed the heart strawberry pink cholocalte chip cake Mommy made with Clara earlier today and frosted with strawberry pink frosting and chocolate chips.

So, here's to a healthy tomorrow filled with lots of love and smiles.

Bribing The Kids For School Pictures

2012-02-13T19:37:00.000-05:00

Mommy started on Friday. Pictures were scheduled for Monday. And, Mommy was determined that Clara would be in the class photo. See, in the 2s Clara was scared- Emma was sick but came for picture day. In the 3s, Clara had her tubes put in. And this year, for the 4s, she was going. No matter what. Of course, she was sick on Friday and much of the weekend, but bounced back.

Step 1: Mommy knew what she wanted the kids to wear and explained that this is what they'd wear for the pictures. Okay- they agreed. Phew. Clara whined a bit because she wanted a blue dress, but she went for the purple dress and Emma wore the pink dress- similar design, different style- of course.

Step 2: Tights. Mommy told them they could choose their tights. That went over pretty well and they were happy to pick out tights that didn't match so well, but were certainly cute.

Step 3: Shoes. Mommy would have liked boots with the outfits, but didn't want to push it- so they got to pick shoes.

Step 4: Biggest Battle. See, Clara is completely obsessed with her "rainbow clip hair." She does it herself. She stands in front of the mirror for at least ten minutes, uses a big clip that belongs to Mommy and pulls her hair back and then puts in at least ten little rainbow butterfly clips around the front. Yeh, not for picture day.

Mommy bathed the kids in the morning. And they got dressed. Then the battle...

Mommy vs the Gornstein Twins

Winner? Everyone. Clara wore one blue clip (she refused the purple clip that matched her dress) and Emma wore a pink barrette. After pictures, Clara couldn't wait to do her hair and enjoyed taking the bag of clips that Mommy left with her teachers to do her hair.

Mommy was told that they both looked cute in the pics - can't wait to see them!

Nursery School Update

2012-02-10T19:22:00.000-05:00

This Week in the Fours Feb. 10, 2012:

Music with Marcy and Cantor Janet . We sang Happy Birthday to the trees
and sang all our songs about the trees for Tu B'Shevat

.
Since we learned that paper comes from trees, we made collages from
newspaper. The children ripped strips of newspaper and then glued them any way they wanted. The collages are a wonderful display of creative process art. By doing collages, the artists gets to use their imagination in any way
they desire. The collages are displayed in our class room.

Trees also give us fruit. To celebrate Tu B'Shevat, everyone brought in a
fruit to share with the class. We made a graph showing the different
fruits that the children brought. The graph showed there were more
apples than any other fruit. Graphing helps to promote basic math
concepts, vocabulary and mathematical thinking. Talking about trees
led us to describing how the trees look different in the different
seasons. We wanted to see who liked what season best, so we made a graph of
the different seasons. Most children liked summer best. They said summer was their favorite because they can swim, their birthday is in the summer,
the sun is shining and you get to play outdoors and swim to keep cool.

Fall was the favorite of one four who likes to jump in the fall
leaves. Winter for some is a favorite because you can go skiing and build snow
men, and Spring because flowers are growing and you can plant flowers
in the spring.

On Wednesday, we did had a big celebration with Jackie and the Rabbi. We talked about why we celebrate Tu B'Shevat at this time of year and how in Israel it's starting to get warmer and the almond trees are in bloom. We did a big lesson about growing things, and discussed how every seed is unique to it's own species, so an orange seed will always grow an orange and never a mango or papaya. We examined all kinds of fruits and tried to guess if there was one seed or a lot of seeds inside. We also talked about which seeds you can eat and which you can't.

In conjunction with Tu B'Shevat, on Thursday we made bird feeders for the birds that are brave and stayed here for the winter. The children covered pinecones with Crisco andthen rolled them in birdseed. You can use the string on the pinecone to tie it someplace where the birds will enjoy a tasty snack. We also decorated styrofoam cups with silly faces and planted grass seed inside, so it would look like hair! Make sure you give it water, sun and a haircut now and then!

We acted out The Carrot Seed by Kraus, a real classic. The class loved
acting it out and wanted to do it again and again.

From the science table, we compared different bark and talked about
how bark can be different on different types of trees.We talked about taking care of trees and at the end of our discussion, one four suggested we all hug a tree!

On Friday we made another book by the fours. This one is all about
Trees!

Shabbat was celebrated with Leo's mom.

Shabbat Shalom to everyone,
Joyce and Tara

Club Lunch Fun

2012-02-07T19:24:00.000-05:00

We made patterned necklaces using fancy beads and necklaces, which provide a much greater fine motor challenge than pipe cleaners!

The kids did an amazing job sticking with it and not getting frustrated as they learned the best way to do the threading.

The Kindgergarten Papers

2012-02-03T19:57:00.000-05:00

Most other school districts had started kindergarten registration. Mommy heard it wasn't for a few months, so wasn't too concerned.

Mommy knew what the big envelope was when it arrived today. For a brief second, Mommy was sad that it was already time to sign Clara and Emma up for kindergarten. And then, Mommy realized that it was pretty exciting!

However, if anyone would like to fill out the paperwork (times 2) please be in touch!

Nursery School Update

2012-02-03T19:27:00.001-05:00

This Week in the Fours Feb. 3, 2012

Monday's music with Marcy was all about TuBsvat We played the wood
instruments and pretended to be trees growing in the sun.
The fours made a list all about trees.

Trees give us food, like apples, pears, peaches, and mangoes.

We start with seeds

The rain and the sun make trees grow

Squirrels live in trees

Trees have roots, trunks,leaves and branches

Coconuts come from trees

Birds live in trees

They grow from the ground

Wood and paper come from trees

A forest has many trees

We read The Giving Tree and all agreed that the tree was a very special one.

The fours water-colored trees to celebrate the birthday of the trees. They are in the hall for all to see. They are all very different and special. The children said their trees were a sun tree, an appletree, a maple pear tree, a bending tree and a blossom tree. Have fun picking out which is which!

We have been singing many songs for Tu B'Shvat.The fours acted out some
Tu B'Shvat poems about trees. The children really enjoy performing for
their friends and we all take turns at being the audience.

One of the songs included the word "sow" and we discussed how words can sound the same but have different meanings, like for and four. We will continue to explore homonyms as we go along.

When going outside the fours are making observations about the winter
trees.

The fours drew faces on white styrofoam cups. Then we planted grass seed
for the hair. We will leave them in the sun and see if indeed our cups
will sprout green hair!

We celebrated Shabbat with Justin's mommy.

Shabbat Shalom!

Joyce and Tara

Clara and Emma's Half Birthday

2012-02-02T08:27:00.002-05:00

Four and a half.

Funny, when Mommy told the ladies that today was their half birthday- they started screaming "no, it isn't August. It isn't summer.It is not our birthday." Obviously, Mommy continued to stress "half" but they really didn't get it.
It has been an incredibly eventful month for Clara. At the start of the month, she began wearing glasses. On the 24th of January, she lost her first tooth. Both these events make her look older - still very cute of course. And, days later, she swam- like freestyle stroke. She also was approved for Occupational Therapy 2 X 45 and started mid- month. This is to help with her hand weakness that lends to her handwriting curving like a circle and some mild motor planning challenges.

Clara is obsessed with her hair dos. She spends at least ten minutes in front of the mirror everyday putting multiple clips in her hair, headbands and even Mommy's large hair clip. She is known around as Punky Brewster or Rainbow Brite.

She absolutely loves ballet know and swimming class. She also likes to do interpretive dance and listen to music. And, for the past several weeks, has enjoyed the movie Annie, seeing the show and know, playing out the scenes with her friends (and sister).

Emma loves movies and performing scenes from them. Annie is her latest favorite, but Barbie Princess Charm School is a close second. She delights in dancing at ballet and really enjoys swimming and doesn't protest sticking her head under water.

Annie

2012-01-29T19:54:00.001-05:00

Clara and Emma watched the movie Annie last year at some point and quicly forgot about it.
It was on tv over the holidays and Mommy recorded it. And they watched it.

Now, they are completely obsessed with it.

They love acting out the Molly/Annie scene where they sing "Maybe," and the Annie/Punjab scene where she is saved. Emma can't get enough of singing and loves "A Hard
Knock Life," but sings "A Hard Not Life."

The show was put on by the Riverdale Children's Theater and Mommy took the ladies. They sat for the full 2.5 hours and loved every second.

Mommy also got them the cd - and now, it is all they ever want to listen to in the car!

The Tooth Fairy Visits Clara

2012-01-25T19:57:00.000-05:00

Last night, late in the evening, when it was very dark, the Tooth Fairy arrived to check on a sleeping Clara. The Tooth Fairy spread a bit of blue fairy dust (glitter), grabbed the tooth box and placed Clara and Emma's notes and gifts on the shelf by their beds.
Clara got a small coloring pad, princess stickers, a pencil, five single dollars, two hershey kisses and markers. And, just like Mommy got growing up, she got a quarter, a dime, a nickel and a penny.

There were big screams of joy this morning in the house and both kids got right to work on coloring on their new coloring books. Clara couldn't have been any cuter or more excited showing off her toothless smile. And, she brought her note from the Tooth Fairy to share at school.

Clara's note says the following (on blue construction paper, of course):

"Dear Clara,
Last night, while you were sleeping, I looked under your pillow and found your tooth!

Congratulations, I see you've lost your very first tooth. I had so much fun coming to your house to look for it.

It is a very special tme for a little girl like you! I see you have been taking very good care of your teeth. I am very proud of you and know you have been brushing your teeth everyday.

Pretty soon, a new tooth will move in where the old tooth used to be. It is a sign you are growing up. Being a grown up means you need ot remember to brush you teeth at least twice a day to make sure they stay nice, clean and shiny.

By the way, I love your new glasses.

Keep being a good girl. I can't wait to see you again. Make sure to say hi to your dentist for me!

Thanks again for your tooth. I left you something special in place of your tooth. Enjoy.

Love, The Tooth Fairy

P.S. I love blue too!

The Tooth Fairy decided to give Emma a note too and a little gift- she got a small coloring pad and a pencil.

Emma's note says the following (on pink construction paper):

Dear Emma,

I came to get your sister's tooth and wanted to say hi. Keep brushing your teeth and be a good girl. I'm sure I'll see you soon. I left you a little something because you are so special."

And, there was also a delivery from a friend of the Tooth Fairy in Maryland. A package arrived with little treasure chests and tooth boxes- in blue for Clara and pink for Emma.

"Hi Clara! Pop-Pop just told me that your bottom two teeth are loose. I have worked with your Pop-Pop for over 40 ears to bring joy to those boys and girls who lose their teeth. That is great. You are growing up. I just wanted to tell you that I have you on my list. Your sister Emma should not be far behind. I am sending two Tooth Fairy boxes- one for you and one for Emma when she looses her teeth. Please do not worry if you swallow it. I learned a long time ago how to retrieve them and you will still get presents from me. Good going, Love The Tooth Fairy over the United States."

The Things They've Been Saying

2012-01-24T21:27:00.000-05:00

In the car this morning, Clara and Emma were examing their lunchboxes- both from Pottery Barn- with their names.

Suddenly, they were discussing big letters and small letters (aka uppercase and lowercase letters).
They noticed that the first letter was a big letter and the other letters were small and had a full discussion on why they thought not all the letters were uppercase.

They've also been obsessed with Annie. They love role playing the scene where Annie finds Sandy the dog and singing "Dumb Dog." The best is listening to Emma belting out "A Hard Knock Life" but singing "A Hard Knot Life." And, yes, they keep saying "I love you Ms. Hannigan." Emma also found a little puppy she's had since she was a baby and started carrying it around and calling it "Sandy."

Another favorite is Emma calls her Polly Pocket dolls, "Pocky Pocket." You can tell her the right name and she still says it.

They also LOVE discussing their boyfriends. Yes, that is right. It is the thing in the 4s this year at school. Who is this one's boyfriend and who is that one and if someone broke up. All the parents think it is so funny that they act like their in 6th grade. They confidently talk about it and share it with people (they gave a full run down at therapy this week).

The Tooth Fairy Is Coming!

2012-01-24T19:19:00.000-05:00

After a full week with a very, very wiggly tooth, Clara finally lost her first tooth tonite. Mommy was taking a look at her tooth and then Clara wiggled it a bit and suddenly it was out. Yes, there was little blood, but after a quick rinse, Clara was excited to show off her new smile.

She couldn't wait to call her grandparents and share the news. And, she kept jumping up and down in front of the mirror exclaiming "I'm so proud of myself."

Clara helped Mommy put the tooth in the blue tooth chest (courtesy of the Maryland Tooth Fairy) and put it in the tooth box and then under her pillow.

The ladies were excited to read the Fancy Nancy and the Too Loose Tooth book and the Tooth Fairy Peppa Pig book too.

Everyone is very excited to see what the Tooth Fairy will bring tonite!

Ice Skating

2012-01-22T22:48:00.000-05:00

Today, Auntie Alyssa and Uncle Ryan came to go ice skating!

And, happy birthday Grandpa David!

Nursery Notes

2012-01-20T19:26:00.000-05:00

This Week in the Fours Jan. 20, 2012

No school on Monday! Tuesday we made snowmen to celebrate the anticipated first snow of the season. (October's was not anticipated!) The fours talked about what they know about snow, and then we learned a little more about how it is formed and falls to the ground. Ask your four to tell you all about snow!

While making their snowmen, the children cut out their own circles and painted to make their pictures.

On Wednesday, we had the Trike-A-Thon! The fours put forth their very best effort for the sake of the sick children. We made a list of how the children that are receiving the money might feel, and how the children who did the Trike-A-Thon felt after giving. The children thought that the sick children would feel happy, excited and good that someone cares about them. Our fours said they felt happy, proud and super to be able to help others. Since so many children were out on Wednesday, we will be running an extra Trike-A-Thon during playground time one day next week. Everyone will get to participate, and the children who were out will have their laps counted. Every child will receive a mitzvah leaf for their good deed.

On Thursday we read Going On A Bear Hunt and made bears to hibernate in the winter. We also made dens for the bears to stay cozy in.

Shabbat Shalom everyone!

Joyce and Tara

Gearing Up For The Tooth Fairy

2012-01-17T20:39:00.000-05:00

Yep. A few YEARS earlier than expected.

At about 4 pm today, Clara was hungry so Mommy gave her an apple. A few minutes later, Clara screamed "Mommy, my tooth is moving." Mommy looked at Clara's tooth, and there was her bottom tooth, wiggling around.

Mommy called Clara's dentist (and Daddy to fill him in) and after a few deep breaths, realized that even if it was going to fall out, because she was almost 4.5, there was probably nothing to do. Well, it turns out, it wasn't the apple. The dentist (confirmed by Grandpa Frome, aka Dr. Frome, the dentist), confirmed that kids can have teeth fall out this young AND that because the other tooth right next to it is loose as well, that she is just one of those kids.

Clara lit up when Mommy told her that the Tooth Fairy would come visit when the tooth fell out. She looked at Mommy with the most innocent face and said "Mommy, the Tooth Fairy comes at night and takes the tooth and leaves you a present and a note, but you'll have to help read me the note because I can't read yet." Okay, so Mommy shed a few tears on that one.

When Mommy mentioned she'd call and tell her about the tooth when it falls out, Emma jumped in an said, "Moooooom, the Tooth Fairy will just know, you don't need to call her."

Clara walked in the bathroom to show Emma her wiggly tooth and all Mommy could think about was the Norman Rockwell picture that hung in Grandpa Frome's office with the little girl showing her tooth.

This is happening too fast and Mommy really isn't ready for this and is working on what the Tooth Fairy gives these days since a bag of chips and a few coins is probably not going to cut it like it did 30 + years ago.

Nursery Notes

2012-01-13T20:47:00.005-05:00

Nursery Notes and This Week in the Fours Jan. 13, 2012

In Music with Marcy we played the metal triangle. We learned that the lighter you tap, the better it sounds!

We read The Mitten by Jan Brett. The children decorated their own mittens and gave the teachers words to describe how their mittens feel. It is all on the hall bulletin board, and the fours are quite proud of their work.

While reading the book, we used a parachute to create a mitten that the children could climb into one by one to get warm. We made a list of how they felt inside the "mitten". They said comfy, cozy, snug, warm, stuffed, crowded and squished!

For share time, Leo brought in seeds from a pod. The class guessed how many seeds were in the container. The guesses went from 10 to 100. There were 31 seeds and Jared guessed the closest, with 26. The children are getting better at "guesstimating"!

Monday is Martin Luther King Day, and we have been reading all about what a great man he was. We read about the speech he made about freedom and how he said, "I have a dream...".The children painted a blue sky, put their hand prints on it and told us what their dreams are for the world. They cut out their own clouds and the teachers wrote their words on them. They are in the hallway for all to see.

One of the books we read in conjunction with this theme is What If the Zebras Lost Their Stripes by John Reitano. It's a wonderful story of what might happen if some zebras lost their black stripes and some lost their white. Ask your child to tell you about it.

Nature came with a tortoise named Egor, a tree frog who eats bugs and has sticky feet, and a corn snake who smells with his tongue and eats only once a week! Andrew from the Nature Center also brought our favorite - a chinchilla whose name is ChiChi who has big ears and eyes to see, since she is nocturnal. The class agreed that she has the softest coat ever.

We celebrated Shabbat - feel better Emma!

Shabbat Shalom! See you on Tuesday!

Joyce and Tara

Haircuts and Pigtails

2012-01-05T16:41:00.000-05:00

After ballet, Mommy took the gals for a quick trim.

And She Loves Them!

2012-01-04T20:50:00.000-05:00

The glasses were ready by this afternoon, so Mommy picked them up at the store. They probably need a bit of adjusting, but Clara was very excited to wear them. Truth is, the little lady looks older in glasses- crazy! She really has an amazing attitude and is helping to make Mommy and Daddy feel okay about it all.

And Emma would still like to know when she is getting her glasses.

Clara's Newest Accessory

2012-01-03T20:00:00.000-05:00

Clara visited the eye doctor for a very early appointment- 7am - no wait!

Turns out Clara needs glasses. The doctor was great and told Clara she got to go shopping and she was excited about it. She came home and told Emma and Daddy and made sure to tell everyone at school too.

Two stores visited and one perfect pair found. As a friend mentioned, finding a pair of glasses for a 4 year old isn't so easy and there isn't a huge choice. Many pairs were just too big, but she picked a pink pair with "sparkles" and was very happy to wear them, which is a good thing.

She'll also need to wear a patch on her eye for an hour a day to help strengthen her weaker right eye, but that is only until April.

Yes, Emma is a smidge jealous and has asked all day about when she is getting glasses!

Big Apple Circus

2011-12-29T20:07:00.000-05:00

On this fourth day of school winter break, the ladies enjoyed a visit to the city to see the Big Apple Circus. It is in a big tent behind Lincoln Center and the kids were very excited. It isn't large and it is a sweet little show. It had acrobats, magic, juggling and some cool dogs and horse tricks.

Clara loved the acrobats and Emma liked the "Grandma" clown. It was so much fun to watch their faces as they watched the circus.

It happened to be a very cold day, so instead of staying longer, the ladies headed back to Ardsley and stopped at the bakery where each little lady picked out a cupcake. While eating it at home and finishing it completely, Clara looked at Mommy and said "I just love chocolate." Her chocolately face confirmed it!

Gymnastics Camp

2011-12-27T20:07:00.000-05:00

Today was the 2nd day of vacation from school (Mommy should make a countdown to returning).

The ladies attended gymnastics camp at the JCC on the Hudson. They were allowed into the camp for 5 year olds + , but held their own!

They went with two of their friends and then about 4 girls who were 6 or 7. They both came home with a new song. Clara's favorite part was the routine with the triple cartwheel and Emma liked the vault.

And, boy oh boy, did it tire them out!!

Grandpa Sam's 70th and Gornstein Family Hanukkah Party

2011-12-26T22:20:00.000-05:00

Today, the whole gang headed to Staten Island to first celebrate Grandpa Sam's 70 th birthday with friends and family. The ladies were wonderful and happily gave hugs and entertained everyone.

After, it was time for the Gornstein/Goldstein/Feldman Hanukkah party. The kids all wanted to open their gifts right when they walked in Grandma and Grandpa's house, but needed to learn about patience. Once the go ahead was given, it was lots of squeals and screams of excitement.

It was a really fun day celebrating wonderful things..

Happy Hanukkah!

2011-12-20T20:35:00.000-05:00

Having the kids pick out their clothes the night before sure made the morning easier. Sure, Clara wore a long sleeve shirt with a blue tank top- yes - a tank top- over it, but she was happy!

They both knew is was Tuesday and a Club Lunch day and couldn't wait to help pack their lunch. And, they knew it was the first night of Hanukkah.

The gang headed to the library for the monthly crafts and made snow people. Clara and Emma joined their friend Maiya, and made quite beautiful and detailied snow people! All three were so excited to check if it was dark, because that meant that it was Hanukkah, of course!

The ladies helped Grandma and Grandpa Frome light their menorah virtually and then sang some songs. This year's favorites include the Macabee March and Dreidel.

Tonight, Emma was on the potty and had an interesting discussion with Mommy.

Emma: "Mommy, I have a great idea. You can record a Yo Gabba Gabba Hanukkah show, if there is one."

Mommy: "That is a great idea, but there isn't one."

Emma: "Maybe you can write a letter and tell them to make one for the Jewish people?"

Well, Emma, you are right. It would be nice if there were some other options on tv!

Sick....

2011-12-13T19:27:00.000-05:00

Emma got some sort of stomach bug late last night and spent the entire nite throwing up. But here's the thing. It could have been worse. She knew she needed to make it to the toilet each and every time and/or the trash can Mommy gave her when she was downstairs at the wee house of the morning.
Pretty impressive.

Clara mostly cared about going to school and club lunch, which was nice to see. But her outfit today was fab- she picked her I Love Art shirt, pink tutu skirt, rainbow tights and her light up shoes and her new style - pigtails with braids. And , her kai lan sunglasses. Adorable.

The December Dilemma

2011-12-11T21:38:00.000-05:00

Even in this Jewish household, there is a December Dilemma.

See, Mommy grew up only knowing Chinese food and the movies on Christmas and seemingly being pretty much meant being somewhat sheltered from the Christmas madness.

That concept seems pretty impossible raising two kids in 2011. It is just not possible to escape between all of the tv shows for kids with special Christmas editions, ballet classes that dance the Nutcracker, the beautiful lights around town (and the rainbow Christmas tree in the village) or the Santa just walking around the local Whole Foods.

Clara and Emma know that Christmas is coming. They will tell you that "we don't celebrate Christmas, we celebrate Hannukah, but we get to help our cousins celebrate Christmas." If you are a kid, that isn't too bad and a pretty good response for being 4.

But, they also know that Hannukah is coming and are very excited. They can sing you the blessings, tell you that it is eight days long, the Hannukah story about Judah the Macabee and the oil and that they eat potato latkes with applesauce (thank you Jewish preschool). They know they get gifts and have been scouring every single Toys R Us or Target catalog writing their initials next to almost every toy - it is going to be tough come January to tell the kids that it can't go on their Hannukah list!!

So, when they ask to see the lights and Christmas balloons at night- no problem. Mommy and Daddy want to see them too. Trees with lights? Yep, we took the kids to Rockefeller Center in NYC to see the tree and the holiday windows for the past few years now.

And, when it came to meeting Santa Claus- well- it was certainly strange - but they both blurted out to him that "we don't celebrate Christmas. We celebrate Hannukah." And Santa responded, "that's okay, you have a happy holiday." And the Gornstein girls- Emma smiled and gave him another hug and Clara said "I want a batman car." To them, Santa is a guy dressed in a red suit- just like Frosty the Snowman in his costume.

The Gornstein gang is gearing up to celebrate Hannukah here- sending out holiday cards, hanging the Happy Hannukah sign that once hung in Grandma Kathy's house and making cookies and latkes.
Here is to another fun season.

Best Little Ladies Around

2011-12-11T21:07:00.000-05:00

Clara and Emma made Mommy and Daddy very proud today.

The gals hit the big city with Mommy to see the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center (which has sort of become something the gang does every year), visited the windows at Saks and somehow ended up at the American Girl store. Mommy had never been and had no idea what to expect. Mommy and the kids couldn't believe the hair salon- yes- a real hair salon- for the dolls. Clara and Emma don't have these dolls yet and will get them when they turn 5- it is something special to be reserved for Grandma Silvia, Grandma Kathy and Clara and Emma.

After a much anticipated cab ride, the Gornstein gals arrived at NY Presbyterian Hospital to vist Grandma Silvia. She is doing well after back surgery on Friday. Emma walked in, looked up and asked "where is my Dora balloon?" You see, she remembered the lobby and her balloon flying up to the ceiling when she left the hospital in September 2010.

Clara and Emma went up the elevator and stopped by to see Grandma Silvia and gave her kisses and held her hand- they smiled and did such a great job of visiting someone who was sick. They enjoyed lunch out with Grandpa and Tia Raquel (visiting from Argentina) and spent most of the day in the family waiting room visiting with family and coloring.

They seemed to bring lots of sunshine to Grandma! Get well soon!

Can We Go To Crayonola?

2011-12-06T23:27:00.000-05:00

With the cutest, most innocent voice, Clara requested to return to "Crayonola, you know where they have the markers and crayons. I want to go there. Can we go?"

By the time Daddy got home, she got the name right and called it Crayola.

Emma did some great artwork tonite- a picture of a little girl with pigtails. She really enjoys making pictures of people and writing letters. She writes her name, and now includes a G "so people know which Emma" she is and then will write several letters under it and tell you what it says.

Picture coming soon.

Fun @ Ridge Hill

2011-12-03T21:43:00.000-05:00

Mommy had some things to return and the whole gang came along for what turned out to be a super fun morning. Ridge Hill is a new shopping complex and today, they had free events, including stuff your own animal and meet Frosty the Snowman. To top it off, the gang enjoyed lunch at Yard House.

Highlights from Japan

2011-11-29T20:36:00.003-05:00

After a 13.5 hour plane trip, Mommy and Daddy arrived at Narita Airport in Japan and waited about 5 hours for the connecting flight to Osaka. A short plane ride later and a bus ride to the hotel, almost 24 hours after leaving NY, it was time to go to sleep in Kyoto.

On Tuesday morning, Mommy and Daddy took a tour of Kyoto.

Paper Mache

2011-11-29T17:06:00.001-05:00

Today, Clara and Emma were excited to see Mommy and Daddy.

From their Club Lunch teachers

"We did paper-mache using our shoes! After the children decorate their shoe creations next week, we'll send them home.

Ask them how they did it!"

This afternoon, Clara worked on a project with perler beads and both enjoyed one of the many Hello Kitty gifts- pocky sticks- they are like long thin crackers with some strawberry yogurt type food covering half of it.

Coming Home

2011-11-29T16:14:00.000-05:00

Last night, Mommy and Daddy came home from Japan. Clara and Emma were sleeping when Mommy and Daddy arrived home.

It was fun to see the poster completed- an activity they did every single day- where they got to write (or tell Grandma to write) what they did and their favorite part of the day. It also had a little note each day from Mommy and Daddy.

And, there was a big sign saying "Welcome Home."

But no one can beat the hugs, kisses and smiles Mommy and Daddy got this morning.

HUGE thanks to Grandma and Grandpa Frome and Grandma and Grandpa Gornstein for watching the kids and making it possible for Mommy and Daddy to take this trip to Japan. And, thanks to all the other family, friends, teachers and more that helped out.

Communicating With Kids

2011-11-29T16:00:00.000-05:00

While in Japan, Mommy and Daddy were able to video call almost everyday from Tokyo and email (see word of day entry). Grandpa Frome also sent some updates about what the ladies were doing in New York.

Sunday Update
Clara and Emma awoke at 7:30 in a wonderful mood -all smiles.They had apple juice cocktails. At their suggestion we took them to I Hop for their usual.We dressed the girls and proceeded to I Hop or as they sometimes said hi pity hop . The were terrific. Clara had her choc chip pancakes Emma had plain pancakes andthey finished them! After a pit stop we were off to Stanford. Using our I phone 's directions we arrived parked free at about 10:30. They sat in their stroller and sometimes stood on their stroller with us.They had a wonderful view. They received balloons, slinkys and scarfs. The parade started with the Governor,Federal congressmen and the mayor. After clowns and bands, the balloons came from Kermit,Elmo,Big Bird(poor Alyssa),Popeyes,and those were only a few,the prerequisite HS BANDS ,elementary school dancers and music. They loved it.We all felt it was a grand parade and they loved everyinute of it.Emma fell asleep going,Clara coming home.

It was a grand sunny day.

David and Kathy Frome

Monday Update
They keep outshine themselves. Just give me ten percent of their energy and I could live in NYC for a year.

They had a good night sleep. Emma got up once and after she got her blanket again she went back to sleep.They had picked their clothes out with Grandma the night before .They had a potty session and dressed themselves mostly. They were on a terrific mood.Emma awoke Clara and it took Emma a little more time to awaken fully. Breakfast was no sweat. And off to school we went.The detours were not bad and we arrived fifteen minutes early. .

The girls seemed happy and we left for Therapy, No problems getting there . The therapists love C and E. No homework for Clara. The asked for and received stickers. The lassies had snacks that in the car.oh they both went potty at therapy as well. Came he watched TV for a short time when Chelsea arrived.. She drove to Chef central.we followed and watched the girls make Turkey cookies.They seemed to enjoy it. Chelsea took them home have them dinner and readied them for bed. Hope you guys are enjoying the time andvacation. All your pages of help make it much easier.. Ahavah.
David and Kathy Frome

Tuesday Update
The young ladies awoke later today. I read them your morning message. Emma had a white cheese roll and Clara had challah and her cream cheese but no bites.Both went into the car and switched car seats. We went early because the road work, but it seemed to be complete except for the line drawings. Went into school and the ladies hit the Lego table. The girls had their lunch boxes for the lunch bunch. They made pumpkin cookies at school.They came home from school to watch tv and relax.
They are excited to go to the library for activities. Saiyanora.

David and Kathy Frome

Wednesday Update
We woke Clara and Emma at about 7:16 am. Clara was particularly tired. They played and they got ready for school. Clara is becoming shy.She was dressing behind the chair but in front of the windows. After a few notes where Emma out ate Clara we went off to school and made sure the recycling was out. Mom came with us and we went to school. Met their friends. They had a turkey Feast today with their pumpkin cookies from yesterday. They sang songs but they were relatively quiet.

On the way to therapy they fell asleep. Woke them up and after some fussing settled them down. The therapist for Clara said "she has improved so much."
.
After therapy we will take them home, make supper, prepare for Alyssa and Ryan,meds, sleeping bags. Hope you are having a good time.

Ahavah

David and Kathy Frome

Japanese Word of the Day Emails

2011-11-29T15:30:00.000-05:00

Mommy and Daddy sent emails each day with a Japanese "word of the day." Here are the emails:

For Monday
Dear Clara and Emma,
Good morning!Hope you are doing well.

We took a long plane ride- longer than Argentina!! But Mommy and Daddy are here in Japan.

Here is your first Japanese word- ko no chi wa- it means hello!

Have a good day at school and therapy. Chelsea comes later too!!

Hugs and kisses,
Mommy and Daddy

For Tuesday

We had a very busy day and toured Kyoto.

The word of the day is Arigato- it means thank you.

For Wednesday

Hi
We will try to call later
 
Hope everyone well.
 
We are heading to Tokyo later today
 
Word of day is sayonara which means goodbye

Love, Mommy and Daddy

For Thursday
Dear Clara and Emma,

We had so much fun talking on the video phone with you! It sounds like you are having a busy and fun week. We hope you are taking care of Grandma and Grandpa too!!

Today's word of the day is Kampi (kompie) which means cheers!

Happy Thanksgiving - we will call you later!!

Love, Mommy and Daddy

For Friday
Dear Clara and Emma,

We hope you had a yummy Thanksgiving and that you had a great sleepover at Auntie Alyssa and Ryan's house!

We are doing more touring today around Tokyo.We take the subway everywhere here.

Have fun sleeping in the penthouse tonite!!!

Today's word is Urashi- it means happy.

We love you!

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

For Saturday
Dear Clara and Emma,

It is nite in Japan and we are going to bed. In the morning, we have Uncle Dan and Yukie's wedding.

We hope your sleepover at the penthouse was fun!

Here is your word of the day- Kawaii it means cute.

Have lots of fun today!!

We miss you! Hugs and kisses

Love, Mommy and Daddy

For Sunday
Hi

We went to Uncle Dan and Yukie's wedding- it was a traditional Japanese wedding. We sent some pictures- check them out!

Have a good day and we"ll call you later!

Here is your word of the day - fu fu means married couple.

Have a wonderful day!

Love Mommy and Daddy

Nursery School Update

2011-11-23T19:12:00.000-05:00

Native American Names

2011-11-18T16:41:00.000-05:00

The kids have been learning about Thanksgiving at school this week and are very excited for the holiday.

Emma picked out a book from the school bookshelf and started reading. "This book is about Native Americans." Well, at least she is paying attention.

Clara and Emma chose Native American names at school this week. Clara picked "Blue Sky Princess," and Emma picked "Princess Butterfly." Perfect names that describe the ladies!

Ballet Open House

2011-11-17T20:35:00.000-05:00

Today was the Open House for the ballet class that Clara and Emma take each Thursday. It meant that Moms, Dads, Grandparents and sisters got to come and watch the whole class. Clara and Emma were so excited for it and kept telling people about it.

They shared their warm up stretches and showed off their knowledge of ballet positions and then did a performance of Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

It is quite special to see their smiles from ear to ear as they danced.

4s Fall Parent/Teacher Conferences

2011-11-17T20:26:00.000-05:00

In advance of tonight's conference, Mommy asked Clara and Emma about school at dinner.

Clara said "I love school and we have a good time." Emma shared that "school is so much fun." Well, you can't beat that response.

And, when Mommy asked what their favorite part of school, they both agreed- "seeing friends, free play and playing outside."

Now in their 3rd year at the school (wow- time flies)- the kids have really grown there and have made great friends.

It is always nice to speak about each girl and hear about how they are doing in school. Their teachers share that they both love school. It is true- they run in on most days with huge smiles and barely remember to say goodbye to Mommy.

Their teachers shared that Clara loves building (see- future architect), art and dramatic play (aka games of family that they play) and that Emma enjoys dramatic play, dramatic play and dramatic play.

One more nursery school conference and then coming too soon is the big world of kindergarten. As their teachers reminded Mommy and Mommy shares with the ladies - enjoy being in the 4s!!

"E"

2011-11-15T20:15:00.000-05:00

No idea where Clara got this one, but she started calling Emma, "E." If she was in another room, she'd start saying "E, come here. I need to show you something." Kinda thought it was cute!

Leaves!

2011-11-13T14:40:00.000-05:00

A favorite activity for the ladies is jumping in the leaves and helping Daddy clean them up. This morning, the gals feeling much better, had a blast in the piles of leaves!

They also enjoyed lunch out with Grandma and Grandpa Gornstein and a trip to the book store!

Here We Go Again...

2011-11-12T20:33:00.000-05:00

After about two weeks of a cough and an occassional runny nose, Clara woke up saying her ear was itchy and was hurting in the middle of the night. She couldn't fall asleep and slept next to Mommy. Finally, some of the pain was relieved by a combination of some medication and draining of the infection.

Tired, everyone got a late start to the day. Mommy took the first appointment at the doctor's office for both kids. While it is obvious from the draining that Clara has an infection, she needed to get a prescription for drops. And, while there, Emma got checked and had an ear infection too. Yep, a really fun morning.

Mommy had won tickets to see the New York Ballet Theater's performance of Cinderella- a hour long show. The kids loved it and it was nice to do something different.

Hopefully, tonight will be better!

Nursery School Update

2011-11-10T20:19:00.002-05:00

This week in the 4's Nov. 10, 2011

Monday's music with Marcy found the fours singing musical scales, playing the drums and pretending to be Fall trees losing their leaves.

Justin's mommy came and read us a book about the Leaf Man and his journey over the Fall landscape. Justin brought in a whole bag of leaves for the fours to use to make pictures. Some of the children made people out of their leaves, smiling faces, and even butterflies. They are on display in the hallway for all to see.

On Tuesday, jackie asked us if we would make American flags for the Veteran's Day dinner on Friday night at GHC. The fours did a greta job and even noticed the pattern in the flag. We read the poem "Hug of War" by Shel Silverstein, and talked about peace.

I will not play at tug o' war
I'd rather play at hug o' war
Where everyone hugs
instead of tugs
Where everyone giggles
And rolls on the rug
Where everyone kisses
And everyone grins
And everyone cuddles
And everyone wins.

Gina visited our classroom. It was fun for her to see how grown up the four-year-olds are. She read us a Thanksgiving book with many new words. On Thursday she came back to see if we remembered what the new words meant. We sure surprised her! We are happy to help Gina with her studies because we know she is going to be a great teacher.

Nature on Wednesday: There was a white tree frog with smooth, rubbery skin. His name was Spiderman. You know why! He lives in the rain forest and his skin feels wet. There was also a bearded dragon named Velcro, who puffs out when he gets scared, and Panda the ferret. It was fun to touch the animals and see how different they all felt.

On Thursday we continued working on our pre-math skills of patterning. Each child created their own pattern of beads, and the strung them on to a necklace. It was amazing to see the perseverance and patience that the children displayed. They have grown up so much!
We also talked about Fall and sang songs about the falling leaves and the squirrels hiding their food.

Next week it's all about Thanksgiving!

Shabbat Shalom to all our friends!

The New Four Letter Word

2011-11-10T08:22:00.000-05:00

LICE. Yep. It has hit the Gornstein house in full force this week!

On Monday, Mommy got an email from school that a child in the 4s class had lice over the weekend. Mommy checked the kids after school and knew Clara had been itchy- but everytime Mommy looked, she saw Clara's dry skin around her ears. Mommy didn't see anything and took the kids to their therapy sessions.

Of course, Mommy decided to check again. And, saw a little bug running through Clara's hair. Mommy jumped up, called Daddy and then a few friends. Soon, it was off to Dale Longworth's home- she is a lice expert. Three hours later, five lollipops per kid, a promise of the barbie dolls that they've been wanting-all the Gornstein's had been checked, shampooed and combed through.

Thank goodness the sitter, Chelsea, was there to help- it made the experience a little more manageable.

This week has featured more loads of laundry than Mommy would like to ever do again, vacuuming, shampooing and combing out (really the hard part).

Treatment will be continued for another few days and things will be a little different in the future- Clara and Emma will wear their hair up for a few weeks, they'll have product in their hair (it doesn't like lice) and spray to make sure they don't come to the sweet Gornstein gals again.

Nursery School Update

2011-11-04T20:21:00.000-04:00

This week in the 4's Nov. 4, 2011

Snow in October! What a trick!

Here in the fours we are working on learning about Fall leaves and why they change colors and fall to the ground. The fours made leaves with green on one side for a summer leaf and beautiful fall colors to represent autumn on the other. Outside on the playground, the fours are busy collecting leaves and acorns to bring home as treasures. We have also been singing songs about leaves falling on our heads and changing colors. The children also noticed that many words rhyme with fall, such as call, ball, wall, hall, mall and tall.

With Thanksgiving coming up, we also read some books about the first Thanksgiving. We talked about how the Pilgrims came to the New World and how the Native Americans helped them learn to farm and hunt.

In conjunction with our Thanksgiving curriculum, the Bruce Museum paid us a visit. They talked to us about the Woodland period 500 years ago and how the Native Americans lived their lives. Melanie from the museum told us that Thanksgiving was a big dinner with the Pilgrims and Native Americans to celebrate the New World (for the Pilgrims), freedom and the harvest.We learned that the children had special chores like gathering nuts and berries for the family, and were the ones that dug out the canoes from trees to make them smooth and deep enough for people to sit in. This was done with sea shells! We also saw some artifacts and models of things from those times, such as a wig-wam (Native American house) and cooking pots and baskets that they might have used, all made from things in nature. We also got to touch different kinds of animal skins which they used to keep warm.

We have been playing with our pattern games, identifying and creating patterns, the beginning of the mastery of life-long maathematical skills. Stringing beads, using colored blocks and building with Legos can all be used to understand the concept. See if you and your child can identify patters as you go throughout your day. There are patterns everywhere! We even found them in our clothing and on the soles of our shoes!

Cantor Janet came on Tuesday to sing with us. We are learning Hebrew phrases, like Shem Sheli (my name is)... in song. It is so much fun.

As the weather is changing, please dress your child for the outdoors appropriately. The fours are the first ones outside in the morning, and it can be quite chilly.

Have a great weekend. Shabbat Shalom to all!

Happy Halloween 2011!!

2011-10-31T21:21:00.000-04:00

Well, there was no school today due to the storm damage (and it still looks like a tornado ripped through the street and several others around). Mommy took the ladies to the doctor because both have had coughs and after being up at night with Emma for over a week, it was time. They dressed up, because, it is Halloween!

Emma seems to have some asthma (mild) and got a nebulizer treatment in the office and now, the Gornstein's are proud owners of a nebulizer machine! She was very good- the iphone and some bribery didn't hurt- and held the mask over her face for the entire treatment.

Clara has a cold- and the good news is that her ears were clear, but that of course, can changes. So, everyone is hoping for the best.

Both were excited to "trick or treat" at the office. They enjoyed a lunch at Panera and then had their therapy- which included more treats.

They couldn't wait to get home and put on their real costumes! Clara dressed up as Cinderella and Emma as Ariel. The sitter was here to help and put makeup on the ladies and they were both so pleased with how lovely they looked. Chelsea was sweet and brought them special cupcakes too!

The gang stopped at the Dobbs Ferry trick or treating in the village before doing some in the cul de sac- avoiding areas where trees were dangling.

They loved looking through the candy and were pretty good about picking just two pieces for tonite.

What a fun day!

Weekend in Maryland for Auntie Alyssa and Uncle Ryan's Engagement Party #2

2011-10-30T21:24:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma took a day off from school on Friday to head down to Maryland. They were so excited to go - Clara even channeled Mommy as she decided she needed to pack up all her stuff on Thursday afternoon.

Even though they were tired, they were so excited to see their cousins, Lucas and Noah (and their parents too).

They enjoyed breakfast out on Saturday before coming home for the party. A special treat was meeting their twin cousins, their age!! They loved running outside to see the snow too.

In Maryland, just a few flakes fell, but in NY, it was quite a storm that had some snow accumulation and tree damage.

It is always nice to see the family together, but much too quick!

Library Fun

2011-10-25T20:56:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma continue to be thrilled to go to Club Lunch at school on Tuesdays. They love to pick out what they want for lunch and help pack it. And, somehow, Mommy manages to get carrots in the lunch bag and they even eat them!

The library had a free Halloween themed crafts hour this afternoon. Clara and Emma made several necklaces. Clara worked on cutting a bat out all by herself and making its face- and then carried it with her around and insisted on sleeping with it. They really like being at the library and playing the games on the computer too.

Fall Fun

2011-10-22T21:45:00.001-04:00

It was a busy Saturday filled with lots of fall fun! This morning, the gang enjoyed a tractor ride around the store at Stew's - where the ladies also had their first tootsie rolls.

After helping with the leaves, the kids took a nap. Clara made herself a little bed inside the tunnel and took a nap curled up inside. Emma napped too- and even though she had a tough time waking up- she was very pleasant for the afternoon.

The ladies enjoyed a Storytime Stage show at the library and Clara even participated! For dinner, the gang headed to The Yard in Ridge Hill- which just opened today- for dinner with the Konigs. Before sittign down, the kids got balloons, saw a juggling show that was part of the opening weekend celebration. They ven got a glimpse of the fire ring when sitting down. It was yummy and a fun nite.

Nursery School Update

2011-10-19T20:57:00.002-04:00

This week in the Fours Oct. 19, 2011

In Music, we played with the shakers and the drum. We clapped and sang "piano" and "vivace". (Ask your children what thaese mean!) We also practiced the musical scales.

We decorated the sukkah with the flowers that we made. We ate snack in the sukkah on Monday, and on Tuesday we had a sukkah party with very special snack to celebrate the harvest of all the fruits and vegetables. Cantor Janet came and sang with us in the sukkah too! We waved the lulav and etrog and sang how G-d is everywhere. It was fun to party with the threes. Thank you to the moms and the PTA for putting together such a lovely party for us!

To celebrate Simchat Torah (which falls Thurs. night and Friday), the fours made their own Torahs.We read about the Torah and how the first story in the Torah is how G-d created the world. We also looked inside a real Torah with the rabbi to see what the words look like - the letters are very fancy and some even have crowns on top! The Torahs looked very beautiful. We saw pictures of how a sofer wirtes a Torah. He uses a special feather called a quill and even has to make his own ink from berries and nuts! The class drew with feathers so they could get a feel of what it's like when a sofer writes a Torah. Some of the children drew pictures in their Torahs depicting creation.

The threes and fours had a Torah parade and we sang "Torah,Torah" to celebrate finishing reading the whole Torah and being able to start all over again. We looked at the ark in the main sanctuary and saw that the Torahs have a beautiful house to live in. The doors are decorated with all the symbols of the different holidays during the year. One of the children thought we should add Halloween onto the doors, but we'll keep them as they are for right now. We also looked inside the ark at all the Torahs and counted how many there were, 11 in all. Jackie told the children that all the Torahs would come out to dance on Simchat Torah! We looked at the beautiful silver crowns and breastplates and yads (pointers), and decided that the Torah must be very, very special.

We are looking forward to a full week of school next week!

Have a good holiday.

Shabbat Shalom!

Sukkah Party

2011-10-18T21:58:00.000-04:00

The ladies got to celebrate Sukkot at school today.

And, they stayed for club lunch and made some name necklaces!

New Beds!

2011-10-16T20:03:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma went to soccer with Daddy and then greeted Grandma and Grandpa Gornstein outside.

It was off to Aquefest, where Clara and Emma enjoyed a little art project, listed to a few bands, did some yoga and sent some rubber duckies floating down some tubes. They had a great time!

While Grandma Silvia and Mommy were with Clara and Emma at Aquefest, Daddy and Grandpa Sam took apart their toddler beds (and what once were their cribs) and put together... real big girl beds!

Picnic at School

2011-10-11T20:46:00.000-04:00

At school today at Club Lunch, the ladies had a picnic! And, yes, Clara and Emma at their whole lunch (which is way more than they have done at home recently!).

Photo Shoot

2011-10-10T20:09:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma got their pics taken by a very talented Nikki Baxendale on Friday. Here are some of the pics- amazing!

Scarecrows

2011-10-10T17:56:00.001-04:00

While it is Columbus Day, thankfully, Clara and Emma had school- a good thing - because they don't hae school much of this month due to the Jewish holidays.

The firetruck came to school to visit. Below are some pics that were sent by the school!

After school, since it was in the 80s, and no therapy due to the holiday, Mommy took the ladies to Lyndhurst to see the Scarecrow Invasion. By far, their favorite display was Wizard of Oz and the yellow brick road. They also enjoyed the rose garden!

Tantrum Dance

2011-10-04T20:02:00.002-04:00

Clara and Emma ran out of Club Lunch with huge smiles and kept saying how great it was.

On the way out, Emma and Clara had this conversation.

Emma: "Mom, Justin is my boyfriend. I just love him."
Clara: "Yeah, Mom, it is true, he is Emma's boyfriend."
Mommy: "Justin- are you Emma's boyfriend?"
Justin: "Yes, I told her I love her at lunch."
Clara: "Justin, can I be your boyfriend too?"
Justin: "Yep."

Clara is exhasted and when she cries, it is hard not to laugh, but it does break your heart.
She says things like "Mommy, Mommy. Listen (using her two hands as if to stop someone). Listen to me. Your not listening to me. I want to tell you what I want and I want you to let me do it. That is why Im not happy. You aren't letting me do what I want. That is why I am crying. I won't cry if you let me do what I want."

The tantrum dance worked with Emma tonite and another piece was added. It now has several parts- stomp, stomp, flap, flap, clap, clap, march, march, jump, jump, run around, angry face. They both like to add parts and it gets them off the crying, whining etc. and it is kind of fun for all.

Two Tired Little Ladies

2011-10-03T18:58:00.000-04:00

It was back to school for the ladies and the routine. It was questionable at 2 am whether they'd go to school. They both had a rough night of sleep leaving everyone tired. They have been napping every few days, but Clara is having a very hard time with no snooze and is exhausted and having meltdowns daily.

Today, Chelsea was here to play with them and they got to paint pumpkins!

Tomorrow, the kids will start staying late at school on Tuesdays- until 2 - for Club Lunch. They are VERY excited and have been begging to do this for a year. The kids have picked out their lunch boxes (they have several that they received as gifts and will alternate) and made lunch request. For Emma, challah with cream cheese and jelly, apple sauce, boiled egg, whole carrots, grapes, and a cheese stick (orange). And, for Clara, challah with cream cheese, apple sauce, shredded carrots, an egg, and a cheese stick (white). It might seem like a ton of food, but who knows what they'll actually eat. Mommy is also a little excited to have a few extra hours!

Apple Picking

2011-09-30T12:28:00.001-04:00

Mommy took Clara and Emma to the children's service for the 2nd day of Rosh Hashanah. In the afternoon and in the spirit of the holiday, the whole gang took a quick drive to Congers to Dr.Davies Farm to pick apples.

Matzah Balls!

2011-09-28T18:59:00.002-04:00

It was rainy morning and the kids didn't have school, so before heading to Staten Island, Mommy let the kids try to blow the shofar.

At Grandma's house, Clara and Emma got to help make Matzah Balls. Emma loved rolling the balls, while Clara tried a few and decided she didn't like being sticky!

Happy New Year- Shana Tova!

2011-09-28T08:15:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma have been in back in school, enjoying their last year of pre school for about 2.5 weeks. They go for almost 3 hours a day and have a blast. Turns out, they are learning quite a bit - as demonstrated in the last few days.

Emma suddenly started singing "Modeh Ani" a morning prayer, followed by the English version which she and Clara have shared in bits a pieces. They even know the Shema (another prayer) and the sentence after (lots of adults don't know it!). They enjoy singing together. And, they can be shofar. Sure, they can make the sounds- but the best is that they even know the name of the sounds "tekiyah..." Go figure Emma's fav is the long one, "tekiyah gdolah." They also have a cute song "apples, chopped and sliced, apples very nice."

They made cards and shofars in school (pictures coming soon).

Wishing all that celebrate a sweet, healthy and happy new year!

Nursery School Update

2011-09-26T20:17:00.000-04:00

Here is what Clara and Emma have been doing at school for the first week.

This week in the Fours Sept. 16, 2011

We are back to school with the wonderful Fours and lots of smiles!

On Monday we spent some time getting to know one another, and talked about our new routine. We looked at the poster with pictures showing our daily schedule. The Fours were very excited to be the first ones to go outside and are very proud to be the big guys in the school!

The class explored their new room, discovered where the different centers are and what the rules are in the classroom. Of course, the most important rule is to be kind to one another and have fun!

The children drew self portraits which will be displayed on the bulletin board in the hallway next week. They told their teachers how they were feeling in their picture. See if you can figure out who is who!

At our first group meeting, we made a list of how the Fours were feeling about the first day of school. Most of the Fours were happy, but some missed their brothers and sisters, and one was feeling "super!" about his first day.

On Tuesday, we cooperatively painted the house to go on the bulletin board in the classroom. In this house, the pictures of the children and their families will live. . The children love looking at the photos of their families, and it gives them a sense of comfort as well.

Before we painted the house, the children voted on what color it should be. Blue won, so our house is blue with a red roof. Our first democratic process in the Fours!

We started reading Chicken Soup With Rice, a book of poems about each month, by Maurice Sendak. It's been a favorite with the Fours over the years. Ask your child about September - many of them know at least part of the poem already.

On Wednesday we made placemats to use at the Shabbat table. The children printed with objects representing Shabbat - a challah, candles, and a kiddush cup.

Our mitzvah tree is already hanging in the classroom, and has already grown two leaves on it! We read the book A Tree Full of Mitvos by Dina Rosenfeld. The Fours talked about what a mitzvah is - they explained that it is when you are nice to people, you share, you give tzedakah, and you enjoy Nature (the gifts that G-d has given us). We asked the children "How can a tree do a mitzvah?" They replied that the trees give us fruit and help the squirrels and the birds. When your child does a mitzvah or a good deed at home, please share it with the class by sending in a quick note telling us about it. Your child can share it with the class and receive a leaf to go on our tree. Please remember to give your child some coins for our tzedakah box on Fridays - that's also a mitzvah!

We invite any parent or family member to come and share a hobby or special interest or talent with the class. Please talk to us and we will set up a time. The children are always so proud to have a family member come in and share with us, and we love to have visitors.

We celebrated our first Shabbat of the year, all of the children wanted kippot.

Thanks for sharing your children with us. Enjoy! Here's to a great year!

New Yellow Shirts

2011-09-26T19:47:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma got new shirts from Grandma Kathy and Grandpa David from their cruise earlier this summer and they were so excited to wear them!

Auntie Alyssa and Uncle Ryan's Engagement Party #1

2011-09-26T19:39:00.004-04:00

It was quite a busy Sunday! Clara and Emma started the day off by playing soccer. It was a big group and they seemed to be quite clingy to Mommy and Daddy, but were still excited to play. The gang headed to Ardsley Day for some treats and then home quickly to change before heading to NJ for the party.

Clara and Emma behaved beautifully! On the way home, they were so excited to see the sunset and the pretty colors.

Nursery School Update

2011-09-23T20:15:00.003-04:00

Here's a note from their teachers about what they've been doing at school.

This week in the Fours Sept. 23, 2011

With Rosh Hashsna coming , the fours have been talking about honey and apples. The class made a list of what we know about bees: some bees make honey, some bees sting, the queen bee is the boss, they live in a hive, they have wings, they make a buzzing sound, they take nectar from the flowers, they are black and yellow, the queen lays eggs, and thereare bees that guard the hive. We've learned a lot of facts about bees! Then we made our own honey bees and hung them on the class bulletin board. We read Eric Carle's book, The Honeybee and the Robber, It is a story about a honeybee as she goes about her day and comes across a hungry bear! The children enjoyed the story with its pop-up pictures.

We painted apples to go on the bulletin board as well, and our class is looking very colorful! The fours are learning new songs all the time. We have been singing the apple song, which tells how we use apples throughout the year for the Jewish holidays. Hope you will hear your child singing the catchy tunes at home.

Cantor Janet came and sang some Rosh Hashana songs with the class. It was fun to see her after the summer. She said the children looked very grown up now that they are in the fours class.

Wednesday we began to talk about the shofar - what it is and what sounds it makes. The fours made their very own own shofars tot ake home. The children glued different colored paper on their shofarot to make them look festive for the holiday. On the back you will find the shofar song that we have been singing in class. The children learned that the shofar is telling everyone to wake up and think about the new year that is coming. Rabbi Kenter surprised us with a real shofar and blew it for the class. Some of us had to cover our ears because he was such a good shofar blower!

With thoughts of the new year coming, we talked about what we are proud of and what we are sorry for. The children said they were proud that they could dress themselves, when theylistened to their mommies and daddies, when they played nicely, when they go to school, when they play with their brother and sisters, when they sleep through the night, when they eat healthy foods and when they take care of themselves. They are sorry for not playing nicely with their brothers and sisters, for not listening to their parents, for hitting people, and for being mean to their brothers and sisters. We all decided that in the new year we would try harder.

On Thursday we cut some apples and printed with them tomake New Year's cards, and on Fridat we celebrated Shabbat with Anabelle and her mommy.

Shabbat Shalom to everyone and have a Happy and Sweet New Year.

Play Time

2011-09-23T20:09:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma had Pizza and Play after school today and then went to Kidville.

Tiara Sisters

2011-09-21T20:15:00.004-04:00

Clara and Emma decided they needed to wear tiaras to school today. Enough said.

Cooking Class

2011-09-21T20:01:00.000-04:00

After school today, Clara and Emma had their ballet class and then went to a cooking class at Chef Central where they made Apple Cupcakes.

2011-09-19T19:49:00.001-04:00

It was a little chilly this morning and the ladies wore their new ponchos! Here is a pic of the flowers Daddy got Mommy for their anniversary!

The Birthday Party Circuit (And Mommy and Daddy's 6th Anniversary)

2011-09-18T20:35:00.000-04:00

The kids had an amazing time at their friend Anabelle's birthday party at Young at Art.

Crafts Fair and Parade

2011-09-17T21:02:00.001-04:00

Saturday was a day of family fun in the area. In the morning, the gang went to Lyndhurst for the Crafts Fair.

In the afternoon, it was time for the Fire Fighters Parade in Ardsley- it was over an hour and featured bands, antique fire trucks, and more! Clara and Emma waved to people marching and driving trucks and were thrilled when they got waved back at. They enjoyed the different type of fire trucks and noticed the colors (yellow, red) and style (old vs new). And, the music - lots of marching for the ladies. Clara had a huge grin on her face everytime a drummer passed by!

Ballet Class

2011-09-15T21:35:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma started their fairytale ballet class at Central Park Dance. They were so excited to wear their leotards and new ballet shoes.

The Speech Notebook

2011-09-14T21:48:00.000-04:00

Clara's speech therapist asked Mommy to bring in a notebook to use for speech. Daddy picked up the notebook and Mommy gave it to Clara this morning and suggested that she and Emma color the cover. Emma got upset she didnt' have her own, but eventually, they colored it together- and were proud of the result.

The best was watching Clara clutch the notebook and walk to the car with it and tell everyone about it.

She even asked tonite if she had "speech homework."

The kids have been fighting quite a bit- pulling hair and shoving each other. They've done it in front of friends and at home. Tonight, after a full day of Mommy playing referee, they just went at it. They kept yelling "I'm stronger than you," and crying and pushing each other. They did stop and moved on, so maybe letting them get it out and not interfering is a good way to go sometimes.

Mommy, I've Got Something To Tell You

2011-09-13T19:59:00.000-04:00

Tonight, around their early bedtime due to two completely overtired, whiny, cranky and not so nice 4 year olds, Emma crawled over to Mommy and said the following:

Emma: "Mommy, I've got something to tell you. I'm sorry for whining so much today. I love you Mommy."

Mommy: "I'm sorry for yelling. I was having a hard time communicating with you."

Emma: "I know. I was whining so much and not listening. I love you Mommy."

Mommy: "I love you too."

Yep.

Back to School For The 4s

2011-09-12T19:45:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma returned to Greenburgh Hebrew Center Nursery School for their last year of nursery school!

They seemed to love it. Mommy asked them what their favorite part was and they both talked about sitting in the circle and talking about their feelings. Clara reported that she was "happy because my sister was with me," and Emma said "happy because Clara was with me." Doesn't get much better than that.

Fun Day At School

2011-09-09T19:47:00.000-04:00

Because Mommy and Daddy were going to Atlantic City in the afternoon, Daddy was home and came with Mommy and the kids to the pediatrician, where Emma got a consult from the rheumatologist. Both kids also got their flu shots and the third shot Mommy didn't give them at their 4 year old appointment. Emma also had to get blood drawl- and well, it was not pretty.

Clara and Emma went with Mommy to the Fun Day at school where they got to meet their teachers and be in the classroom. After, there was a presentation by the bee keeper and Daddy even came for a bit!

Labor Day 2011

2011-09-05T19:46:00.001-04:00

While it was forecasted for rain, it stayed away the whole day.Unforunately, the pool has been closed since Irene and downed power lines meant it wasn't in the cards to get in a swim before the end of summer.

Instead, the gang had an adventure to Greenwich to the park across from the Bruce Museum. It is a great park. Clara and Emma made friends with another little girl and played quite a bit with her and did some lovely, colorful chalk drawings as well. They really had a blast. The park was followed by a quick trip to the mall in Stamford to look for shoes for the kids (not successful) and back to Port Chester for a yummy lunch at Q and popsicles down the street.

It is hard to believe the summer is over- it was filled with lots of fun. Clara and Emma learned to swim, had a blast at all of their camps, enjoyed tons of playdates and couldn't get enough of being outside!

Almost harder to get over that the kids are 4 and they are starting their last year of nursery school next week!

Dining Playdates

2011-09-03T20:11:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma enjoyed a ladies lunch at Cheescake Factory with Mommy, friend Abby and her mom, Lauren. It was lots of fun for the kids who couldn't stop giggling and climbing on each other.

Then it was a trip to the Palisades Mall to return some stuff. The kids enjoyed a quick visit to the Lego store too where they got to play with some legos.

The day ended with dinner with friend Jack and Mommy and Daddy's friends David and Michelle at the Greek place in Tarrytown and then ice cream.

Cinderelly

2011-09-02T21:37:00.001-04:00

Clara and Emma had their last day of Princess Camp today. They had a fantastic time (really, what little girl wouldn't?) and already asked when they could go again.

They performed a cute song about Cinderella too! It seems these two like to sing and dance quite a bit!

In a little over a week (yes, that is one more week with no camp or school to go), Clara and Emma will enter their last year of preschool. They are so excited to go back to school and be with their friends!

Pooping For Dollars

2011-09-01T08:23:00.002-04:00

Just a quick follow up. Emma's been pooping. And sometimes more that once a day. She goes voluntarily and sometimes on her own. She isn't whining and she giggles when she goes.

Who is this kid?

This "pooping for dollars" concept may make Mommy and Daddy poor, but if this is what works, it is all good!

Playland!

2011-09-01T08:15:00.002-04:00

After picking the kids up frm princess camp, Mommy took them to meet their friend Hayden and her mom and Rye Playland.

It was sunny and hot, but lots of fun. There were so excited when Mommy pulled into the parking lot. And, thanks to the babysitter, it was free because she had four bracelets. Woo hoo! It meant that the kids could go on any and every ride, and some more than once. Plus, getting there when it opened and on a weekday afternoon meant almost no wait at any ride!

There were some rides Emma deemed too scary and didn't want to go on, like the roller coaster, but she did some other rides while Clara and Hayden went on it. She went on a few rides with Mommy like the spinning balloon ride and the submarine that goes up and down around and backwards. She wasn't sure about, and was a little scared, but came off them reporting "that was fun. I was a little scared, but I didn't cry."

Clara's favorite ride was the roller coaster (she went on two different ones) and Emma loved the polar bear (aka mini-himalaya).

And yes, they crashed in the car on the way home!

Mama, My Wishes Don't Come True

2011-09-01T07:58:00.000-04:00

Yep. Emma sat at breakfast and said this very sentence. Mommy asked her what she meant and here is how it went.

Emma: "Well I want a pony."
Mom: "Really? A big pony?"
Emma: "Ohhh. A little toy pony. And a rainbow. Everyday, outside."
Clara: "Like at the beach."
Mom: "I'll work on it."

And Then The Hurricane Came

2011-08-31T20:18:00.002-04:00

And, we're back! ConEd decided it was time for light and there is light on Rest Avenue. Today, at about 3 pm, the power returned to the Gornstein home for the first time in almost 4 days. Of course, it wasn't the end of the world, but it really was quite annoying.

The kids did okay considering and liked walking around with flashlights. The didn't love how dark it was if they woke up at night and got scared.

Today, they were just thrilled when they flipped the light switch and it went on (which they tried doing everytime they walked in the house). They also enjoyed telling folks "we don't have electricity." And, when the ConEd/tree trucks were on the street, they smiled and said thanks.

Just a bit of background, Hurricane Irene came up the coast and hit NY. To prepare, the Gornstein's had dinner at Hurricane Grill on Friday night. It was not intentional at all, but once there, Mommy couldn't resist taking a photo! Saturday morning there was a quick trip the the Hasting's Farmers Market for some pickles and dancing.

The power went out at about 4 am on Sunday morning due to a downed tree by the neighbor's house (everyone okay there too). The garage flooded and the kids slept with Mommy downstairs because it got scary around the time the power went out. Daddy spent much of the night scooping up water from the front of the garage to try and prevent anymore from coming in.

By the morning, it was time to check out the damage and see the tree with the rest of the 'hood and speculate how long it would take. No one thought this long! Clara and Emma were great at helping to clean up and picked up branches and leaves and raked and shoveled things off the street. The wind stuck around most of the day, but the Gornstein gang made it out to drive around and see what Irene had left and to get some dinner too. Lots of flooding and trees down around town.

Yep, all the food in both fridge/freezers had to be tossed. The pool was closed too because of damage, so that wasn't an option. It mostly was a week spent at Kidville's Princess Camp in the morning, lunch out with friends and outings for fro yo and playgrounds. The gang made the best of it. Local friends were amazing and offered a place to stay, play or eat- it was really appreciated.
At least Mommy and Daddy had their phones...and the kids had a DVD player for a few days.

Back to reality! Yipee!

Princess Camp Fun

2011-08-30T20:39:00.001-04:00

The kids loved it! Here are some of the pictures from Monday and Tuesday's camp.

Tuesday the kids got to go to lunch with Jake at Johnny Rockets and in the afternoon, fro yo at Stew's.

IHOP Ballet

2011-08-26T20:33:00.002-04:00

Clara and Emma loved going out to breakfast at IHOP before ballet camp. While waiting for their friends, they put on a show.

Tennis in Tutus

2011-08-25T18:14:00.002-04:00

The day started early when Mommy and Daddy heard footsteps at 6 am. Clara got up to go pee on her own and went back to bed. Emma followed her and then went back to bed. But not for long- but they are getting the idea.

Clara and Emma came along to Mommy's tennis lesson- before it rained. They sat nicely on the bench and drew pictures of Mommy playing tennis. At the end, they even got a mini lesson. It was off to ballet camp next - and they had a blast!

Zoo!

2011-08-24T20:22:00.000-04:00

As part of Mommy Camp, the gang went to the zoo. The kids loved walking around and seeing the lego display of the animals.

Mommy Camp

2011-08-23T21:25:00.002-04:00

Yep, Mommy Camp has returned for a few days this week. It could also be called "Operation keep Clara and Emma super busy and happy so they don't whine and drive Mommy crazy and have lots of fun together."

Well, today everyone did a pretty good job at accomplishing the goal. Mommy went to workout and the kids happily went to the babysitting at the gym. After, it was off to the Greenburgh Nature Center to meet friends. The kids had a great time in the small, but sweet butterfly exhibit, meeting animals and even petting a snake and putting a show on for everyone on the stage. They enjoyed lunch at CPK and then spent some time at the pool- even though it was breezy.

Of course, the news of the day is the earthquake that some people felt, like Daddy in NYC or Grandma and Grandpa Frome in Maryland- fairly close to the epicenter- all ok. Mommy was driving and running an errand and heard about it on the radio and didn't feel a thing. Everyone, everywhere was talking about it. One has to wonder if it is just the last summer boredom factor that made it so fascinating or that it is kind of wild that buildings shook.

Afternoon Pool Fun

2011-08-23T08:05:00.001-04:00

The kids went to friend Hayden's house and had lots of fun.

It Is Okay To Be Different

2011-08-22T21:46:00.000-04:00

Last week, Mommy had an experiment after Clara complained she didn't want to wear a pull up at night. Mommy knows that usually if Clara is asking to do something, she is ready, just like potty training. So, Mommy told her if she was dry for a week, she could wear underwear at night. And, just to be safe, Mommy took Clara for a "dream pee" sort of like that "dream feed" when they were babies, but now, Clara goes to pee at around 10 pm. Clara stayed dry.

So, finally, last Wednesday night, Mommy let Clara wear underwear. She's been doing great with only once accident in a week- not too bad.

Of course, Emma got upset and thinks she should wear underwear too. Emma isn't able to stay dry and because of her constipation issues, it really is best that she stay in it. At one point, Emma turned to Clara and maturely stated "Clara, it is okay to be different."

Emma argues nightly that she should get to wear underwear too and it isn't fair because they are "twins and do the same things." When she is ready, she'll be ready.

In the same vein, Emma has been doing a great job pooping on the potty. She sits (sometimes is forced to sit) and push (even tries fake ones when she doesn't want to do it) and goes. She does take quite a bit of miralax and fiber, but it seems to be working.Tonight, Daddy promised her .50 cents if she went. When Mommy asked her what she'd save the money for, she had an answer- "the Barbie doll with the doggies." And, Clara aka the future lawyer, somehow managed to get in on the deal and negotiated the money for herself when she poops too- which she does pretty consistently every night. Don't think this is what Daddy had in mind.

Clothes Shopping

2011-08-22T21:40:00.001-04:00

Clara and Emma came back to school clothes shopping. Well, not only did they like everything in the store, Mommy actually had them try on clothes in the dressing room for the first time.

It was hysterical. Clara went first and kept modeling the jeans and shaking her tush. Emma followed, and commented "I love this style. I look beautiful."

Facepainting and Balloon Fun

2011-08-20T08:10:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma went with Mommy to the birthday party of one of the kids they met at camp that they'll eventually go to school with in Ardsley. They had a great time!

Swimming In The Rain

2011-08-18T13:51:00.001-04:00

This morning, Clara and Emma attended Little Splashers. The kids were dressed in their bathing suits and coverups and it looked overcast with a little sun before leaving the house. By the time everyone got in the car, it was raining. So Mommy took them to the Community Center, where the program was held earlier this week when it rained. However, it was going to be held at the pool, so Mommy loaded them back in and headed over to the pool.

Clara got weepy because she didn't like getting rained on, but Mommy explained that it was a cool thing to do and that she'd have so much fun. They both weren't so sure, but went off with their friends.

Mommy left and drove away as it poured, feeling terrible Mommy guilt. A friend checked on the kids and they did swim in the rain! However, the rain did stop and the kids had huge smiles on their faces and reported that they both had gone swimming in the rain and loved it.

It is great to be a kid!

Little Splashers Camp

2011-08-15T14:25:00.000-04:00

Two very tired 4 year olds slept a until 8 today. They started a week at the Hastings on Hudson's Little Splashers. Unfortunately, it was a rainy day, so what was to be outdoors at the pool, was indoors at the community center. Clara and Emma clung to Mommy and didn't want to separate or sit with their friends- which isn't really something they do. However, it was a bit chaotic and there weren't really counselors encouraging them to join the circle, like at Camp Rainbow. However, they did finally join their friends and Mommy was able to leave- and came back to smiles and popsicles!

Today was also the last day for the kids at their summer PT and Speech therapies. They both will have different therapists this fall, so it was time to say goodbye to Michele and Colleen. The kids both had lots of success this summer and it was a good experience for both of them.

Makeup for the Ladies

2011-08-14T14:25:00.000-04:00

Mommy and Daddy went to Damian and Jolie's wedding and Clara and Emma stayed with Tios and Tias!

Seeing Tios and Tias from Argentina

2011-08-13T21:09:00.000-04:00

The day started when the gang got on the road to the city at 7:30 a.m. After enjoying some breakfast at Daddy's office, it was time for a taxi ride uptown to the Cooper Hewitt museum and their Imagination Playground. The kids loved playing with the blocks and their friend Madeline.

The ladies all enjoyed sharing snacks on their stroll to Central Park to see the marionette show at the Swedish Cottage. To end the morning, the gang had a pinic in the park and enjoyed some tag and hide and seek.

Emma and Clara haven't lost their "city girl" and when Mommy went to hail a cab, they hopped out and put their arms out and were a little thrilled with themselves when the cab stopped.

The ladies napped in the car on the way to Grandma Silvia and Grandpa Sam's house. The ladies enjoyed seeing their aunts and uncles from Argentina- Tia Racquel and Tio Angel and Tia Suleima and Tio Jorge and of course, lots of family and friends.

Last Day of Camp Rainbow

2011-08-09T19:06:00.000-04:00

And just like that, Clara and Emma finished camp today. They really had a great summer- even if they only could go half day. Their counselors were fantastic and they enjoyed sports, arts and crafts, swimming, singing and dance! Here is the camp photo and a few pics of the kids and their counselors from last week.

The Doll Head

2011-08-04T21:02:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma got a doll head with hair that they can brush, blow dry , do hairstyles on etc (better than Mommy's head which they've also been using). While some think this toy is freaky (Auntie Alyssa), this is a huge hit for the newest 4 year olds on the block. Thanks Grandma and Grandpa Gornstein!

Emma LOVED the hair extensions and wanted to wear them herself (and got the idea from the box). They had so much fun and it occupied them all afternoon!

Camp Show

2011-08-03T12:55:00.000-04:00

Today was Clara and Emma's camp show! They performed two songs on stage and sang two songs with the entire camp. They did a great job!

Happy 4th Birthday Clara and Emma!

2011-08-02T18:47:00.002-04:00

Today, Clara and Emma turned 4.

Ring Lollipops

2011-08-01T20:49:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma coached Grandpa David as he put their new princess tea cart together. Emma kept saying things like "Grandpa, you can do it. Just take your time," or "keep trying!" When he did it, she commented, "I knew you could do it!"

The ladies enjoyed the morning at camp and made sure to tell everyone that today was their last day of being 3.

At Clara's speech session, her teacher brought in a special birthday activity and Clara go to paint and put jewels on a princess wand. Clara was thrilled!

The weather was a little strange with thunder but no rain that would come and go, but in between, the kids enjoyed a playdate a the pool with their friend, Hayden. Clara couldn't wait to swim with Hayden and Emma was excited to show how she can put her head under the water.

And, Mommy finally gave it and the kids had their first ring lollipop. Yes, Grandpa David, they brushed their teeth extra well!

Dinner was at the pool and was fun to be the only people there!

To the little ladies who went to bed as 3 year olds and wake up as 4 year olds, sleep tight princesses!

Clara and Emma's 4th Birthday Family Party

2011-07-31T20:56:00.000-04:00

Clara and Emma celebrated their 4th birthday with the family this afternoon with all their grandparents, Aunt Alyssa and Uncle Ryan and their cousins!

They were so excited to have their Pinkalicious cake too! Yum!

Ahoy Matey

2011-07-30T20:56:00.001-04:00

Clara and Emma went to their friend Ethan's 4th birthday party. It was a pirate theme and easily the most creative and fun birthday party!

Pool Fun

2011-07-28T20:07:00.000-04:00

The kids have been making the most of days spent at the pool. Clara and Emma only want to go in the big pool - and are doing really well at swimming lessons. Today, Clara was able to get her arms going and started to learn freestyle and practiced kicking. Emma kicked and learned jump in.

Each day at the pool, Clara wears her goggles the whole time- even in the sandbox, and if she is in the water, will swim up to anyone to show them how she can go underwater and says "want to see something awesome?"

They also have become comfortable with the pool and like seeing some of the other kids they know and get upset if their "new friends," aren't there.

And, like any kid, they love eating lunch and getting snacks at the pool.