FossFeatures...

Super Moms

2011-12-28T14:19:00.000-08:00

Ah, the things we do... We are the Super Moms!

Actually, we are each carting two children around the Big Apple and trying to stay sane. I love these ladies and all my Friends that help me keep my head above water and endure the energy of craziness called Life.

This day we met up after dance class and saw a gingerbread display at a hotel on way to walk 5th Avenue to see the holiday window displays. Five preschool kids. Five younger kids. Fifteen of us. Busy and happy moms are we!

Funny story... John went to attend a school tour for L's kindergarten entrance (for next year, indeed its like college with applications, tests, tours, etc.). Well, I had signed up to host preschool the same day of the tour, and my friends also had to attend so I had their older child with me and John went to the school tour with the ladies. These lovely ladies. It was fun to hear John return, because he heard these wonderful women talk about the stressful things I talk about...balance of kids, the rush of the morning, the craziness of the city, etc. I am thankful he could see the reality of how we women Do and Survive the city and see I'm not nuts, just normal, big-city normal. :)

Origami Tree at NHM

2011-12-27T18:41:00.000-08:00

We went to the Natural History Museum last week for an indoor park day and to see the Origami Tree. It has over 500 paper ornaments including many of the animals in the museum. It is very cool and the kids sat at the foot of the tree for a long time, talking, playing and even drawing what they saw on the tree.

Then all the children learned how to make a little origami and proudly showed off their paper boat standing near the tree.

After seeing the big blue whale in the Ocean room and the origami tree, we continued up the museum to the dinosaurs. The kids enjoyed watching the educational movie clips then sat for a very long time again drawing, talking, playing at the feet of the giant dinosaurs. We love the museums!!

Preschool Nativity

2011-12-23T17:42:00.000-08:00

L's preschool group was at our apartment the last Friday class before Christmas. Thus our theme and books was all about the Nativity story. We read various Christmas books, talked about the people and what they or the animals said, learned about sound, hearing and sang "Do you Hear what I hear?" We also made a star ornament and created a picture of the Nativity. The best part was the most hectic at the end when we re-enacted the story... They were so cute!

A (angel & inn keeper), L (angel), B (wise man & inn keeper), J (wise man), E (Joseph), Lilly (Mary) and missing little Ben (3rd wise man)

Macy's Santaland

2011-12-22T17:21:00.000-08:00

We went to Macy's to see Santa. The joy and energy of the season was high as we walked through the train to the North Pole, saw the singing tree, little elves and animals, mini cityscapes, lights and happy festive scenes. It was a nice quick twenty minute walk through the lines then we came to Santa. Benjamin was a little shy/scared but became super happy as he gave him a high-five and sat on mom's lap next to Santa. Both kids smiled and talked to Santa. Lilly told him of her list. This was her third visit since we moved to NYC yet this was our very first family picture together with Macy's Santa.

The kids were very excited!

Then we walked through the store, enjoyed the sights and window shopped the sales. Then we walked past all the window displays outside and saw the Make-a-wish magical presentations. We Believe!

Gifts for Jesus

2011-12-20T08:17:00.000-08:00

As part of our advent activity list this season, we created this jar of nice deeds and things to do as giving gifts to the Savior for Christmas. I'd like to say we have each done one every day, we haven't, but some days Lilly picks two. We have done many of gifts, such as write a letter to family, give a thank you note to a friend, learn a new game together, read Ben an extra book, give more hugs, and say I love you more.

What I love about this jar is that it is a daily reminder to try harder to give Gifts of the Heart... and to try to remember Jesus and be like Him.

Bryant Park

2011-12-13T19:43:00.000-08:00

Took the kids to see Bryant Park, the holiday tree, the ice skating rink and ride Le Carrousel. It was cold but super fun to play with friends and soak in the festivities!

Bryant Park is on 42nd Street just down from Times Square. Such a fun place; we've been a few times during summer and now even for winter activities. They totally transform the entire park! We stopped at Dylan's Candy Bar for a little treat (where we found some unique holiday candies for our gingerbread house and even the Swedish teeth candy which we love so much). The park was buzzing with holiday cheer, the kids ran to their hearts content, the moms talked and fun was had by all!

Letter to Santa

2011-12-12T19:35:00.000-08:00

She is really into writing and letters; sometimes we can get them in the right order to write notes. Here is her process of her very first letter to Santa. She even drew pictures for the things she wished for. Thankfully, she is very gracious about this wish list and it has remained the same all season.

(cookies from Trader Joes, yum!)

(American Girl Doll. Ken Barbie. Littlest Pet Shop.)

Cars celebration & Turning TWO!

2011-12-08T17:38:00.000-08:00

Benjamin turned TWO! This amazing kid is full of energy, smiles and spunk. He makes people smile and laugh, he waves to strangers, hugs his friends, gets down to eye level to babies and blows a kiss as he signs "thank you." He seriously has won many hearts as he shines and plays with a joyful heart. Most of the times he see his little friends he will go up and give a hug and sometimes a kiss; at church he crawled around with a little 9-mo old baby and kept hugging and giving kisses to her (kind and gentle), at playdates he lights up and gives his little girlfriends big hugs, even at the post office last week he made a new friend and stood arm in arm hugging and jumping up and down with delight. He is a real happy and joyful child.

Ben has one speed: fast. He runs, and runs, and falls and gets back up to run again. As a toddler he leans forward and often greets the ground, his size-chunky feet trying to keep up with his enthusiastic head and torso. He is athletic and eager to climb, jump, hang with strong arms and do all the crazy things his dad and sister do. He's tall and (even with his lactose intolerance) he's a happy, healthy big kid.

Benjamin adores his family and shows it by saying "Da" or "mom" ALL the time, clinging to mom, hugging and playing with Lillian every chance he gets, following like a little duck with pure joy as he wants to be with us. He also loves cars (the movie and toy cars), trains (including Thomas), balls, Mickey Mouse "Mo," playing with Little People, dancing, bathtime, and even his sisters dolls and girl stuff as he plays along with her. We have found him looking through the princess books for the prince, dragons, the animals and various parts of the fairytale world, he can appreciate those things too. He is well-balanced for a little brother, but you can always count on him finding Lightning McQueen and Mater from the movie Cars, anywhere!

A few reoccurring comments we've heard about Ben include how adorable he is, talking about his hair ("Its like gold!" we've heard a many times), people taking pictures of him, or commenting on his thumb. Yes, he's still a thumb sucker, which brings some fun challenges in the city with subways, sand, falling and constant wipes and cleaning before he inserts thumb into mouth. He has a full mouth of teeth and just started babbling constantly. He has found a voice and now has different sounds for his feelings, as he pretends with his toys, and when he says his words for: dog, car, choo-choo (train), more, food, ball, (and still signs for most specific things). I hope you enjoy these details darling child :)

Now on to his birthday party! I had some supplies, my friend lent me two darling cake pans and Ben has some little friends to come... so we just had to have a playdate! We had five buddies over to our place for a wee party and it was such fun. It was all about CARS!!

Our guests included: Jones C, Ava T, Arden S, Bart O, Henry R

Ben was thrilled to eat cake, sing the song and loved blowing out candles (still does after we sing HB songs). We finished the birthday celebration by going to the TRAIN SHOW at the Botanical Gardens. It was so fun to have a family adventure together the rest of the day. Both Ben and Lilly enjoyed the 14 trains on display; we loved the impressive NYC creations from plant based materials, full bridges, buildings and cityscape displays. The trains went around and around, we stayed for a while then went through the children's garden and discovery about gingerbread. It was a very festive day!

Dearest Benjamin,

As you turn two and even more terrific, we hope you keep the intense light in your countenance and joy in your smile as you learn and grow up. You have already expressed your deep inner kindness and desire to help others. You give hugs and show you care, as well as give opinions as you climb to reach your goals! Literally, you often show your desire to accomplish much along with a balance of all good things. It is so fun to hold your hand as we walk down the street, cuddle to a show, play blocks or puzzles together. It is wonderful to see how happy you are with yourself, joyful with others, how you and your sister are kind and play really well together. Thank you for being fun, joyful and part of our family. We are so proud of you and love you so much!

Family time for Thanksgiving

2011-12-01T18:58:00.000-08:00

In New York we make a Thankful Tree with leaves listing some of the many things we are thankful for. This tree would be much bigger if we hadn't left out of town the week before Thanksgiving and been gone for two weeks. It even has a few pressed leaves from Central Park on it. We are thankful for so much!

In Utah, Heidi and the kids stayed, played for a week and even had an early turkey dinner with the Anderson side of the family. (I don't know why my camera didn't come out more, but here are the very few pictures captured of the festivities.)

Wednesday night dinner, Nate made a TurDuckHen (impressive) and I made a massive turkey with fresh lemon, rosemary, thyme, etc. It was super yummy!!

While also in Utah we spent some time at our old house, which didn't sell and needed some TLC. Here's the view from our front door, sigh.

Enjoying the new trampoline in the lovely backyard.

On Thanksgiving morning we flew out to go to Colorado and meet John at the airport. Yay daddy!

We had a lovely dinner with the Johnson extended family and went black-friday shopping. It was super fun to play there with Oma and Opa!

Heidi returned to Utah for Festival of Trees early, and then John and the kids returned for 22-hours as we went to Opening night and spent a few hours with George & Susan too.

We celebrated Ben's birthday, played with cousins and really enjoyed family time! It will carry us through the holiday season while far away, so again a big Thank You!

Cool Cousins

2011-11-30T19:21:00.000-08:00

While in UT & CO for two weeks we had such a great time with family and the kids LOVE their cousins. It was darling to watch them pick up right from where they left off months ago, and play to their hearts content!

Here's Maya & Lilly in Colorado:

Sitting in Oma's sleigh while eating popsicles at freezing temps

Kael and Ben playing trains

Ben loved the new member of the family, Tera's dog Rico

In Utah, Emma and Lilly eating cupcakes!

Riley and Emma in capes made by aunt Heidi for Christmas

L, E and B silly and happy from eating cupcakes and playing all day long!

All dressed up

2011-11-21T08:46:00.000-08:00

Halloween was weeks ago, but here are the costume pictures!

Our darling children dressed up multiple times for Halloween'11. Benjamin was a pirate for earlier parties but dressed warm and cute as a puppy on the big day. Lillian told me after last year she wanted to be Super-girl, then months ago decide to be Aurora/Sleeping Beauty princess. In the end, both costumes were enjoyed but she was excited to wear the Super Girl costume for every outing, flying around with super-powers!

The kids had an indoor-park Halloween party at our friend's playroom. I painted faces, so fun.

Trick'or Treating at TOMS Restaurant (Seinfeld)

Fall Colors in Central Park

2011-11-14T18:10:00.000-08:00

The Fall leaves are out! It is absolutely beautiful. There was snow over a week ago, but finally the sun has been out, the colors have changed and the we have tried to spend a few hours out in all the splendor.

Last Monday we took a family walk to Central Park. Here's a look at the lake on 103rd, where we picked leaves for a fall garland.

Here's our little family last year, capturing the fall colors and leaves in Riverside Park.

And here's our festival photo, Fall 2011 in glorious Central Park.

Walk with Mickey Mouse

2011-10-26T17:38:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of our trip last week at Disneyland was when had a special walk with Mickey Mouse!!

We went to Mickey's house for pictures and the kids loved it! It was at the entrance of the house (for the early hour) then started walking through the house. All of a sudden Mickey joined us in the hallway and took L & B's hands! He walked through the entire house with us! It was seriously such an exciting time. They were in awe. We were thrilled.

He even stopped to "show" us the garden and this magic mirror on the wall.

L, B and Maya stopping for tea in Minnie's house.

Daddy and Ben sitting at the camera, a must do-when we stop at Mickey's house. :)

Fitness Challenge '11

2011-10-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

Keep on Keeping on!

I am in the fifth week of the Fitness Challenge! Last year was so amazing I convinced myself to do it again, along with some friends here and my mom. I love the community support and the incredible lessons learned through this experience!

I can eat all I want all year, but for these eight weeks I am going to be strict and focused on developing better habits of all around health and balance!

The rules are to work out five days a week for 30 min, AND no desserts, no soda, no eating after 8 pm, read scriptures 15 min, plus a weekly challenge (for six days a week, one free day). The weekly challenges include daily: a food journal, getting 7 hours of sleep, eating five veggies, drinking 64 oz of water, 100 sit ups/50 push ups (this week), eat 4 fruits each day, have five small meals and finish it up with going a 1/2 marathon during week 8 in addition to our workouts. We all paid $25 to be serious. It is hard, incredible, so great, yet hard to get the workouts in and to say "no" to the yummy things I want to eat.

Its really a powerful experience to practice these habits. Each week there are various lessons that I ought write up. I listed some of those great lessons learned from last year here. In summary:

Its important to say "No" to overeating, overspending, etc (just like we have to say No to much of what the world says to consume as a shopper, we need not consume everything we see that's edible and looks good; kind'of a spiritual lesson here)
I do not need to (always) reward myself with food for enduring hard things, just drink a glass of water, exercise or do something nice for myself (like paint my nails). Reading the scriptures will also help when I need a boost.
I feel GREAT when I exercise! I love how I feel after I do a run, yoga, video or get my heartrate up through any workout. It gives oxygen to my brain so I think better, to my muscles so they work better, and boosts my soul in a mysterious way. (Its hard how I have to re-convince myself everyday to want exercise, but its amazing after I do.)
I need to work out and be picky about what I eat or I will gain weight and inches (like when I gained 7 lbs during the 2-mo UT trip)
Maybe the key to staying skinny is to really find satisfaction in choosing healthy alternatives (like the pineapple over a churro at Disneyland, or chew on dried banana or nuts instead of candy, or drink a glass of water when hungry)
Late night eating never does any good. Close the kitchen at 8.
"Nothing tastes as good as getting Fit feels!"

So these are a few parts I want to Remember! Shout out to John for reminding me when its hard to remind myself to stay committed. He has been wonderful to help me eat well, workout, etc. ~ a huge Thank You!

Love at Home

2011-10-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

So enough whining. Yesterday had some nice moments. Lilly is working on her talk for the Primary program in Church and recites it everyday. She came up with her answer to why Jesus loves her so it truly brings a big smile on our faces to hear her recite:

"I know Jesus loves me because He knows who I am and the Holy Ghost tells me it is true."

Lately she prays very sincerely, including to bless our hearts, our spirits, bless the Holy Ghost, bless Ben to be good, etc.

One Lillyism I've meant to record is about how adorable L & B play together. Recently she asked J, "When is Ben going to grow up so I can play with him?" (J said soon.) She replied "but it's taking SO long!" They do play, giggle and interact every day with such adoration and 95% kindness.

Also yesterday, our near two-year old dumped an entire box of cereal in/out of a bowl on the table. It was awesome, such a mess and he sat there pleased as punch to eat his self-poured (3rd) breakfast. I was not pleased, so he sat in his crib. As I cleaned it up this song came out of my mouth singing...

"There is beauty all around, when there's love at home. There is joy in every sound, when there's love at home...." I sang the entire thing, which I can't even remember now.

I was surprised with my outburst of song, and more importantly, thankful for the reminder these words brought me. There IS beauty and joy in these child-adventures...as long as we have Love at Home.

Service with a smile

2011-10-24T18:11:00.000-07:00

Service is such a simple yet easily forgotten thing. I'm realizing it is something I really need to prioritize and plan into our lives more.

One of our NYC summer "adventures" was an opportunity to help with a city-wide Church service project. I was actually excited about it and for the chance for Lillian learn as she helped pick up garbage along the Hudson. Lilly enjoyed using the long grabbers and I could see the light grow in her as she gained understanding about liter and reinforced where we should put our trash. And the lesson has stuck.

The next service lesson came as we were visiting family and while staying with my parents for a few days we went to visit my sweet grandparents who live next door. We tried to help vacuum and do a few chores daily, but this next photo melts my heart as I see my young son want to help mow the lawn with my darling grandfather. We noticed my grandparents working so hard in their large yard, so one week we went over three mornings to help. It was short but I figured every 10-20 minute of more hands helps and it teaches us. Benjamin and I mowed the last stretch of grass then moved weeds, grasses, branches, etc. It was amazing as 20-month old Ben would model the picking up of stuff and put it in the bin; he even pushed his wheelbarrow with a mini load of grass behind great-grandpa!

Lilly helped with ten branches (with payment of a juice box), but we had a great talk about how the Disney princesses help other people. Cinderella serves her family and even does so kindly. Aurora serves three little old ladies and does her chores in the forest as well as Snow White cooking and cleaning up after seven old guys. I hope our little 4 1/2 year old catches more of the "service-bug" and in the meantime I'm going to find more opportunities to work on it myself.

As a Family we can do great things...if only our hands are outstretched to help one another!

Family Pic w/23

2011-10-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

One of the fun things we did in UT with my family is a weekend reunion "retreat" at my parents home. We even took a family picture! It was a truly wonderful to play ALL together! We started with an "Its a bugs life Breakfast," went to the Davis Co Fair, the kids had pony rides, had family picture time, then Saturday half of us ran a 5K together, followed by breakfast out, a slip and slide afternoon in the sun, games and kids playing, said a goodbye to Julia and Jake heading to China, then we continued family fun that night and Sunday. Love you guys!

Here's our clan of 23 people, including parents, eight siblings, spouses, and kids (plus baby Tess on the way) :)

Trip out WEST!

2011-10-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

We were in Utah for two months. Yes, it was a good-long time. It was in summary:

wonderful time with family and friends!!
J worked on a film project with the Church
H & kids were crazy bouncing back/forth from Provo hotel to parents' home
we loved the open space, playing in the yards, trampoline, fresh air, mountain drives (having a car!) and many aspects of the western-living
we missed our home and are glad to be back in NYC (yet can't quite remember How we lived here); yet it is great to get back into a routine again

While away, there was 1 date night, so I begin with a picture of this. (Also since I have hundreds of pictures from the trip!) Our trip to the Temple is a good starting point for summarizing our time in Utah.

In the Temple of our Lord, we are reminded of the "Big Picture" - the purpose of life, the objective to return to our Heavenly Father, and the promises we make to help build the Kingdom of God on the earth. We covenant to give our time, talents and "all we have" to help share the Good News of the Gospel. Well, our main reason for this trip was to support just this. J is a film-maker and wants to build the Kingdom via media and film. He has felt passionate about giving of his talents and skills through Film. Recently he was asked to participate in a film project, something we hadn't planned for but here we are in the thick of an Amazing circumstance. We are personalizing the scriptures and have a renewed desire to follow our Savior. We are thankful for the opportunity and how it has strengthened our testimony of Jesus Christ. (Check out THIS for more information about the Church)

Last name in a Photo

2011-08-29T20:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered where your last name comes from? In 2005, J & I went to on a trip to visit our missions and stopped in Norway to see where his great-great grandfather comes from. Upon finding the tiny town, we met a few kind folk to direct us to the Farm where the family name comes from. Our research of family history taught us that the last name often came from the occupation or location where the family lived, and also was passed down from generation (Ander's Son, Neilsdaughter, etc.).

J's family lived on a farm which was named after THIS waterfall. I just happened upon the picture while on J's laptop and was excited to post the lovely view (still so amazed I captured this photo on such an early digital camera, yikes!).

This place in the mountians of Nordsinne holds a holds a sweet spot in our hearts. It is named "Stotfoss" (roughly translated as powerful small waterfall). The Falls have stayed with us and our family now for years. A great reminder to be constant and strong throughout life.

Swedish Midsommar

2011-08-21T05:48:00.000-07:00

Catching up on fun times in June... we went to the Swedish Midsommar celebration the day before my birthday. I love that my birthday is nearly always the day of or very close to this party which celebrates the longest day of light (in Swedend) of the summer. I'm so glad we found this party in NYC to keep the up tradition of making/wearing flower crowns, dancing around the may-pole, eating Swedish meatballs and candy, Swedish folk songs and being with my family!

Midsommar has been part of my life for as long as I can remember, including my grandparents, my mission and now with my own children! Hip-hip-horrah!

Family Picnic, NYC yard

2011-08-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

This is one of the things we love about our NYC neighborhood. This Cathedral is amazing! There are a few spots we like to hang out, on the grass and in the Biblical Garden (one of my happy places). It is a breath of fresh air in the city.

The first morning we were away we watched the TODAY show; J & I both got a bit emotional about being far from Home...then Lilly even said it aloud. Yes, we miss NYC already. Yet we are so happy to be with family and playing out West. The kids have loved the trampoline, playing on the grass, running with space to spare, etc. The second day we were here, we had an extra hour before dinner and I seriously thought to take the kids in the car to a park...then my mom reminded me I could just let them play in the yard! Ah!! I almost gasped in joy, ah! Yes, let's just play in the yard. And so we have! We went to a few parks, maybe out of habit, and to feed the ducks and see new places, but I have to admit we totally love the freedom of a yard!

And so I remember "our yard" where just a few weeks ago we enjoyed a family picnic on a bit grass in NYC.

Wish I would've done before today...

2011-08-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

We're heading out for a trip. We are subletting our apartment while gone (yay, no more paying rent on an empty space!). I've been preparing for over a month. Weeks ago I cleaned out the hall closet for their stuff. I emptied kitchen and bathroom cupboard shelves. I was sorting favorite clothes to be ready to just insert into suitcase. We picked kids toys to fill their small backpack. But once again its after midnight and I'm fighting the urge to panic at all I have to still do to ready in the next eight hours. Sleep...I don't know how much that will stay on the agenda. Lessons relearned.

Here are the things I wish I would've done BEFORE today:

cleaned and wiped out the fridge
consumed and wiped out the freezer
finished the packing, for real
ran final errands
tidied corners and dejunk the piles of "daily living"
readied the apartment for the sublet arrangement (SO much to clean!)
laundry, it always just complicates the packing (more options, ah!)
announce blog going private (yes, please Email me if you want the invite!) :)

Heads up... our family blog may go private soon. If so, I will send more info about another public blog by me which is to come, details coming.

Back to trip preparations, anyone have successful travel rules they're willing to share?

Happy trails to you on whatever adventure you have today!

Daddy/Daughter Date

2011-08-03T09:14:00.000-07:00

Lilly got to go to a special free screening of Cars 2 (with the Producers Guild). She was thrilled to go on a date with Dad, yet super nervous to go to a movie theater (she had resisted for months to go near any movie theater). Yes, daughter of a film man and she didn't want to go...then we figured out she thought it was like the 4D ones with water, seat movement or surprising features. Once J showed her the impressive place and the seats with no holes to spit out water, she was so excited and decided she loved movies again! (as long as they don't spit water) When she returned home, she wanted to take Ben to the next one and told me "Mom, you just HAVE to come to the movie theater with me and dad!" Thanks PGA for offering this to help her fall in love with the cinema again!

Miss Spiders Tea Party

2011-08-01T19:46:00.001-07:00

We leave town this week, for a long time, so last month I needed to redirect some worries into something positive...thus I planned a party for Lillian and our friends! It was super fun to put creativity and fun ideas into a park playdate, then the theme turned into party! The ideas just kept coming and soon I had a bag full of stuff and 40 friends met us at the park. Thanks for coming dear friends!

Miss Spiders Tea Party!

It was SUPER fun. We sat under a spider tent, did a bug craft, had a tea snack on spider web placemats, read the book, then did face painting. My fantastic photographer friend captured AND blogged about it today with a great summary of all the fun. Check out her amazing pictures HERE. She's wonderful and we will definitely combine forces to create an amazing Fall event (or maybe even go into business together doing these city kid parties!) :) Thanks Les! Check out the darling smiles and fun park times on her blog!

Firetruck fun on the Fourth

2011-07-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

Check out these party animals!

After three weeks of someone being sick in the family, we finally are well! One of the few activities we tried to do during this time was on the Fourth of July. Our friends had a breakfast and neighborhood parade! I love the City enthusiasm and activities!

the festive parade following the firetruck

B eager to ride the scooter (while L sat in the stroller with a tummy ache)

And Benjamin was happy and feeling well to run in the firetruck hose water spray! Go boy! Run!

It was a wonderful ending to a morning that would have to sustain us indoors for a while! Holidays always bring a refreshing element of joy and fun times. Thank you and happy birthday America!

Super Kids

2011-07-26T11:27:00.000-07:00

These kids just make my heart happy.

Today they are playing super-heros with the capes I made them at Christmas. (Finally they are being used! And you see L carrying her new sewn purse above. All that sewing is worth it!)

Superheros are flying up and down our hallway, crashing, leaping, etc. (Our poor neighbor downstairs, but they need to have a few moments being kids in their own home. Soon we'll get out to the park.)

L just came in to share that she needs to "fight the dragon to get the magic tooth to save Daddy." And a while ago, Dad was the bad guy and they were in battle "tickle" style. B has worn his cape and chased the super-activity back and forth as the cape sways near his ankles, but his super-hero grin just energizes all around. (pictures must be taken, it is so adorable)

These kids are super. Sometimes super annoying, super fun, sweet, kind, smiley, eager to play, interact...all I need to do is get in line and follow their super example.

CP Zoo & Friends

2011-07-22T05:57:00.000-07:00

Our family loves the zoo. We got a pass last summer which includes five places with four zoos and the NYC aquarium. It has been so fun to use it for family adventures and spend time with friends.

Friends are like extended family here. We are so thankful for our dear friends!

For our last Central Park Zoo visit, the kids saw the animals, watched the seal's feeding, walked the small park area, saw turtles and baby ducklings, fed the goats, climbed the ropes and then acted like animals in the children's zoo.

Caroline and Lillian became instant friends at the beginning of the summer on the subway platform going to church. We're truly thankful for the summer internships that brought these families to NYC for the summer, including the moms (Andrea and Sarah), Lilly's girl friends (Caroline and Abigail), and Benjamin's friends (Olive and William).

And it was perfect that Benjamin and Olive were the exact same age (only two days apart). I need to post their hug goodbye picture as well, what sweet little friends.

And a last shot of our little climber!

Make a bag, or two, or three

2011-07-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

I had a brilliant idea a few weeks ago to make a bag for Benjamin. He had been carrying his sister's pink purses around the house so I realized his need for something more Boy-ish to carry toys in. I found some fabric and created this orange thing. No pattern, just made it up. Then I made two more just for kicks for Lilly and friend May (trying to do craft time with the girls). Each is different and now I know how to proceed with a pattern. I think people with real experience might get paid to come up with patterns, but I'll try that next time.

I was thrilled afterwards when Lillian wore her purse/shoulder bag every day for a week. Now she and I have new plans for a lined bag that looks a little better.

Fun family time at FAO Schwarz

2011-07-17T18:32:00.000-07:00

One of the best, free activities we enjoy here is going to the toy stores... its like a museum! And in NYC, they make it so appealing that kids can go play and enjoy the sites. Our kids don't even ask to buy any toys, they just know we go there to look, for story time or just to play. It is fun to see our children learn the joy of the experience, even in a store.

Some of them include: Times Square Toys R Us, The Disney store, American Girl Doll store, book stores along Broadway, etc. We've gone to FAO Schwarz many times, with visitors or just us. We went just two weeks ago for our family fun day and here are a few a snapshots.

The first thing is usually a stop at the Muppet puppet corner (also near the elevator). John always picks up the display and chats with the kids while we wait. Its such a hit, every time.

Then up to the second floor to the BIG piano. Lillian dances away. Benjamin runs up and down the lit up keys.

This is a "Must See" when you come to NYC. Just plain ole' fun!

Cupcakes and sugar...everything nice!

2011-07-16T18:15:00.001-07:00

There was a Candy Carnival at Dylan's candy store two weeks ago and we just had to go! It was loads of fun, plus free candy at each of the eight "games" - like limbo, dancing, pick a stick, marshmallow shooting, stand on the number of candy pieces you want. Real smart, and simple fun for our little ones. Lilly and Ben enjoyed the colorful place, sugar smells and I was thrilled to find "mormor's tendarna" (grandma's teeth) - a Swedish gummy-teeth candy which I love.

After we walked through the fancy Bloomingdale's department store, smelled perfume (a favorite activity for L & me). John was a good sport. Benjamin waved and flirted with all the ladies while us girls picked our scent of the day. Then we just HAD to try a new cupcake shop on the next block... Sprinkles!

Yum!

Big Boy Benjamin

2011-07-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

These are from a few months back, but I adore this little guy!

Benjamin is now 26 lbs, a strawberry-blonde boy with long hair curls in the back. He runs and marches up and down our hallway, while we still work on "tip-toe" quiet steps.

He has officially started in Nursery at Church and enjoys playing. We often see him giggle when he sees one of his friends (Arden, Olive, Bart, Jones) then he goes over to give them a big hug around the neck. It is seriously adorable.

Questions from L's sunbeam class

2011-07-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

How does your she help your family or do for parents/sibling?

Lillian helps our family by being a nice sister, she plays with Benjamin, sings him songs, pushes him on the swing or toy car, shares her toys. She helps our family when she holds the door open for the stroller, she vacuums the living room, and clears her dishes from the table.

What does your family like to do together?

The Foss family likes to go on adventures, dance together, play games, climb rocks, go swimming and eat treats together.

One thing you (parents) love about her and one unique thing about her.

One thing we love/unique thing about Lillian: her enthusiastic attitude and ability to make friends

Harry Potter Movie with Q&A

2011-07-08T17:31:00.000-07:00

Today we had a special invitation from the Producers Guild that John in member of to see this movie and a Q&A with some cast members after... It was amazing!

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2

It was incredible. The movie was really well done, story, characters, details, effects, etc. The battle between good and evil forces of the wizarding world escalated into an all out war...and there I was on a Sabbath afternoon thinking "this is how it is now!"

We are all in a War of good versus evil, spiritually we each fight personal battles AND collectively the fight For Good is on against evil. I was especially impressed seeing this spiritual concept manifest right there up on the screen. It was wonderful to watch how each character did his/her part. Each had an important role to play, and they did it. It was not about one hero but about a collective effort; I loved seeing how each participated in what they could offer and do. And at the end, they rejoiced in the collective group, not for one hero but recognizing that every person, job, task was needed to win the battle. The Bigger Picture was important and each did their part.

The whole story is about Love. There are different themes and sides of love shown in this movie series and the more we talked about it, the more fascinating it is. Motherly love saving her son (Lily Potter). Selfless-love to give up his life (Harry). Self-absorbed love that started all the evilness (Voldermort). Friendship love and loyalty (shown by the students of Hogwarts). We discussed the key that drove the story through all seven books and what concept sparked in J.K. Rowling to motive through it all. Love.

John and I are eager to watch the movie again because it was so good.

I know at least my mother would want to hear from John the film-maker and his report of some details, so I turn the Q&A summary over to John...

"The Q&A panel was moderated by an Entertainment Weekly writer (his name escapes me), but we welcomed the presence of the actors who play Hermione Granger (Emma Watson), Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint), Draco Malfoy (Tom Felton) and Neville Longbottom (Matthew Lewis). They were all very candid and real. The moderator would ask a question to the panel of actors and in no particular order they'd reply with humor and sentiment. The camaraderie was evident as they playfully made jokes with and about each other. One of the questions asked was what advice would they give themselves 10 years prior before assuming the legendary roles. Watson said she would tell her young self not to worry so much about her wardrobe and big hair, as she worried it would make her look silly. She even recounted feeling uncomfortable about little things, like a scene from one of the first movies where Hermione runs to Potter and embraces him. For her at that age it was embarrassing and in fact Columbus (the director of that film) had to freeze frame to make her embrace long enough, but unnoticeable really to the untrained eye. Tom (Draco) really embraced his character and loved being the bad guy. He was definitely one of the sharpest ones on the panel, always having some smart and funny retort. Rupert (Ron) was pretty close to what you see on screen. That was funny. When asked what other character he would consider playing, he joked about playing Hermione, but then that would be weird because he'd then have to kiss himself. Lewis (Longbottom) quickly responded "what just happened with your thought process there?" prompting laughter and then the panel got off topic about a one man play starring Rupert as all characters. That was funny.

It was interesting to hear about their growth as artists. As children they didn't feel like actors, they felt like they were being guided through scenes rather than acting (like "acting by numbers"). As they grew older, they came into their own. Watson recounted her experience on the third film in the series with director Alfonso Cuarón. She said Cuarón had them write essays on their characters for him, as an exercise to see what they know about their characters (she wrote 13 pages; side note: Daniel wrote 2 pgs, Rupert none). For Watson, she said the essay was character-research and became a starting point of coming to her own as an actress portraying the role.

One last story to recount was when they were asked which scene was their favorite to do from this film. I especially liked Lewis' answer. He said that the director on this film, David Yates, didn't like to do a lot of takes because he believes the first few are the best. So the actors rehearse a few times before the camera rolls. So in one particular scene, toward the end of the film, Longbottom gives a short heartfelt speech in front of a group including Voldemort. They start to rehearse and Lewis recounted how perfectly scary and intimidating Ralph Fiennes was at playing Voldemort. Even during a rehearsal, Lewis felt as though Fiennes was looking into the depths of his very soul. "It was terrifying," he recounted. He said it was a privilege to work with Fiennes because of what he learned from the refined actor.

It was a very fun and exciting panel to witness, definitely one to remember since it followed, what is most definitely, the best Potter film in the series!"

Bronx Zoo

2011-06-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome summer day-trip to the Bronx Zoo with our wonderful friends, Mackenzie, Lucas and Sam. They are moving to Texas and we are so sad to see them leave, but have so many fun times to remember. The park days, kid swapping, exercising, pizza, playing on campus or the Cathedral...we will miss them tremendously. She was the first friend I made when I moved here to NYC and she really helped me adjust to the city. Her boys and L & B have been dear friends too. So we loved our big trip to the zoo on June 30th. We spent ALL day playing...

One of my favorite parts of this fabulous day was the Butterfly garden. We had a few lovely moments with the delicate winged fluttering friends, one landed on my shoulder for a while, another landed by Lilly's leg while we sat on this ledge.

It was a peaceful time in the Butterfly garden, we were alone for thirty minutes, Benjamin napped with the classical music in the background, Lilly and I took pictures and talked about nature. Then we met back up with our friends, played hard, endured the heat, took the monorail to see animals, had slushies and rode the train home for an hour+. What a glorious day!

These are some older pictures, but I had to include the smiles of these two cute buddies.

Churches of Paris - Day 3

2011-06-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

Paris 101

foss style

Day 3

We biked to church 30 minutes and three more times to each site today.

A BIKE on Paris streets is a lovely way to see the city! For lunch we had an amazing ham, cheese, mushroom crepe - mouthwatering as I think back on that lovely lunch. We sat and enjoyed while watching some street-performers doing tricks with kicking and spinning balls. Then we leisurely enjoyed the scenery of the city for thirty minutes on our bike journey to the church on a hill. Loved it!

Sacre Coure "Sacred Heart"

We walked through the lovely church on a hill and hiked hundreds of stairs for a magical view above the city. Truly inspiring.

After the Sacred Heart church, we biked through the city to Notre Dame (Our Fair Lady) - walked through the incredible church, wondered at the details (and felt gratitude for the lovely cathedral right around the corner from our NYC apt)

Notre Dame "Our Fair Lady"

We walked past Saint Chapel, which was closed but admired buildings, water fountains, people and shops along the way as we found a place to eat dinner.

Yes, I like to take pictures of food...makes it last longer along with the memory. I had salmon; John had chicken. They serve everything with fries, not a big fan but they were pretty. The bread was scrumptious! Afterwards we took a nice promenade along the Seine river toward more impressive buildings, where we finally found bikes to travel back. (Our third night getting a bit lost, but hopefully we know our way around the neighborhood, backwards and forwards for the next two days, yay!)

Versailles, France - Day 2

2011-06-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

Paris 101

foss style

Day 2

We went to the lovely Palace of Versailles. After sleeping in a bit, we hurried off on 2 subways and 1 train out to the countryside. (I took the most pictures this day, thus its been hard to pick which great pictures to post of this amazing place)

King Louis XIV had a very impressive vision, taste and style.

The gardens, sculptured bushes and trees (makes us want to cultivate our "one-day" yard in a whole new way). The paintings on the palace ceilings are incredible! I zoomed in with my camera to see details and I loved the amazing art in every room.

Wow! Totally amazed at the kings quarter and queens quarter, decorated every inch. Can you imagine the parties in this room? The beautiful "Hall of Mirrors"

And looking out the windows all along the right side of this hall you see this superior garden view!

Looking back towards the same palace windows from the garden (standing by that far horse fountain).

We took a little garden tour on a golf cart! We zoomed along the 45-minute walk past fountains, pathways, shaped trees and statues all the way to Marie Antoinette's cottage. A quick tour of her place and gardens in the hour ride we had.

Marie Antoinette, her house/villa was lovely. (There's me in the mirror below taking pictures.) I loved the garden, the cozy feel and still elegance that was present. Ah, to live there!

We returned to the city from an eight-hour countryside tour and found dinner. We chose to eat at a corner cafe/restaurant where we could see the Eiffel Tower glimmering above the trees. It even shimmered on the hour, twice. It was a nice meal of croque madame and a Parisian hamburger. The food was delicious and the view made me so happy. We attempted a date-like chat over dinner about life, Us and dreams.

Meeting Paris, Bonjour! - Day 1

2011-06-14T08:20:00.000-07:00

We met in Paris!

After two years of graduate school, long hours, two children, the Big Apple, with average trials and challenges... we met in Paris and enjoyed our getaway! We were together in that lovely city for five wonderful days.

Paris 101

foss style

Day 1

met up at the hotel despite the travel challenges and embraced, finally together
got ready for the adventure, packed a small bag, grabbed drinks and got out into the city
walked along the street with wide eyes, soaking in...we're actually here!
grabbed a baggett and quiche to share
walked to the Eiffle Tower and sat on a bench to eat, watched the crowds and sighed in awe at the romantic setting
took a promonade through the Tuileries gardens
visited the Louve museum from 6:30-9:30 pm, and saw amazing art such as Winged Victory, Mona Lisa, da Vinci, Venus de Milo, sculptures done by Michelangeo, Renaissance art, pictures of Christ by Raphael, and so much more!
walked home, got lost along the way and resigned to take a taxi back to the hotel exhausted, yet ecstatic, and crashed down in the city of Lights

picturesque streets of Paris

eating a chocolate and banana crepe

walking from the Tuileries gardens to the Louve

Winged Victory c. 190 B.C.

"Magic hour" with twilight perfect lighting as we exit the museum at 9:30 pm and head back. It was a lovely first day!

Finding the silver lining

2011-06-11T19:01:00.000-07:00

Today/Saturday I got to TRY to count blessings... It was actually another day with a series of unfortunate events. But here's the nice way to describe them.

We got our second complaint from the neighbor downstairs (both in a month since Ben has learned to run up/down the hallway). The Saturday had been a challenge with rain (thus we were indoors) and John had hurt his back (thus I was single mom Saturday-style)... so when the man came to my door to complain I was super apologetic, and then, I started to cry. I was strong at first asking what times and rooms we should be extra sensitive around, but he just kept saying it was ALL day, all the time. So, really, what am I supposed to do? I already constantly tell the kids to have "quiet feet" and Ben is in his highchair a lot, and they go to bed about 7 pm so the evening hours are quiet, but they are children. They still have a loud pitter-patter of a childs foot. I feel bad since the man has cancer and is in chemo three days a week, so we are aware and trying to be kind. And I feel horrible about our noise making it harder on the poor old man. So I began looking on Overstock.com for a 20-foot rug runner. A really, really long rug with double foam padding for the hall... hm.

I took the kids to the store to get outside, and to give John and the downstairs neighbor a break from the noise. We walked three blocks, bought four bags of groceries and walked slowly home. Ben ran the last half block home to get his wiggles out. When I unlocked the lobby door I attempted to get both kids and the stroller inside, but the stroller fell backwards. Silver lining: not one egg broke from the two dozen nor did the loaves of bread smash. The dinner cooking on the stove didn't scorch and both kids ate it and went to bed by 6:45.

Thought to have a break? But no, then John went to the ER tonight to get an x-ray on his neck. He injured himself working out yesterday and started having muscle spasms, exploding down his back and up into his head. It was so bad and he laid flat in bed most of the day. Our kind neighbor came to sit while the kids slept. We slowly walked down the street to the corner ER. Thankfully they gave him some strong muscle relaxers, pain meds and confirmed that his spine was okay. We were back home in less than two hours! Wow, so thankful we were truly on the fast-track. When we returned my sweet neighbor had washed my sink full of dishes. I nearly cried again out of gratitude.

Today I had two opposite Neighbor-experiences. One complaining about my sweet children. The other helping them/me and even asking when Lilly is going to come over and visit. Even through my feelings I wanted to give both neighbors some of the soup I made.

It pauses me to think (even more than Monday's battle with reality). Despite the giant ER bill we got in the mail today for Lilly's visit a few weeks ago, contrasting to John's ER visit today. Neighbor negatives vs. Neighbor nice. We share a wall with a guy in a rock band, so there are some loud hours and he's really nice about it if the kids are sleeping he'll turn the music down, sometimes. Maybe I need to be that way to the guy downstairs... so all I need to do if find a way to turn down the volume on the kids. Outdoor adventures, park outings, movies, confinement to one room... any other ideas?

Forward, pressing forward

2011-06-08T20:54:00.000-07:00

So Monday was a doosey of a day, but yesterday and today were fine. All better. Moving on. Forward, pressing Forward!

Today I helped at Lillian's preschool, prepping and building the bug books with the kids. This four year stage is pretty cute. She knows bits and pieces of knowledge and it makes me smile when she's eager to share. We have our first homework assignment to create a poster all about Lillian for her closing Book Buddies program. It was fun to sit and talk with her about her favorite things. Her list includes: butterflies, caterpillars, ladybugs, animals, Benjamin, Daddy, garden class, fruit, dogs, cats, friends, princesses, pink and aqua blue.

Benjamin is 18-months old today! Yay, we're so proud and happy about this amazing little guy. Picture this charming face, at dinner with sticky hands he reached up to hold my cheeks and pull my face down to his. Leaning over his highchair, I smiled at him and he gave me a wide open mouth kiss. It made me laugh so hard, so he did it again. Man, we love this little dude.

You can see a bit of his awesome energy here in these iPhone pictures, as he rides in the community car, sits in his crib after nap (he'd just learned how to take off his shirt, downwards), his first bites of corn on the cob at a street fair, and him racing with a ball and his super hero cape...

Benjamin has recently started signing more words and says the hard "k" sound for drink or milk. I'm amazed at communication in this basic form. When it works, it is so rewarding!

And P.S., Reality and I are definitely becoming better friends. :)

Today's Battle with Reality

2011-06-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

If you ever wondered about my humanity...well today I showed my face and everybody saw. Yes, I'm human.

I guess it all started on Fast Sunday yesterday, yet it peaked at dinner time tonight when I should've been home feeding the children but was still at the park. Fears and insecurities are funny things. We have such great intentions at being our best self and then Bam! - Reality hits you on the side of the head. "Hello, this is Reality, we've met, but today I thought we'd have a staring match! Btw, I won."

Ironic that yesterday's post was John at the Cannes Film Festival and today I'm sharing my no-good-very-bad day. And not to mention I still haven't posted about Paris, which goes to show that reality has swept us back into Life since we returned. Maybe after today, I'll finally get to dreaming again and look through the 600 pictures from that wonderful trip. :)

Anyway, today started off with sensitivities, some good long-overdue time in the scriptures, Benjamin slept for one hour then was up for the next nine hours, I took three kids to two parks (my two plus tending a friend), we tried to nap which NOBODY slept, so we went off to another park.

This is where the staring-match with reality intensified. I was worn a bit already from the day, no naps, a bickerment, and then... a lady went off at me for "neglecting my baby" and letting him play with a diaper (which was not ours but she scolded me for leaving), I held myself together and walked back to our group of friends. She was very, very unkind; some NY nanny/women can be super toxic and won't stop. I wanted to cry and leave. I stayed, watched the three kids play in the sandbox and felt some kindness from my friends. Then, Lilly started yelling, crying, screaming like never before (at least in public), and she wouldn't stop. So we packed up, insert Ben and May into the stroller. I wrung out any patience I had left and coaxed Lilly to scoot home.

My mother-face was not the best today. I think about the look my children see on my face, and sometimes its not very kind. My mouth frowns, my angry eyes emerge, my tone is harsh, etc. This is certainly NOT what I want my children to remember. And its not about keeping appearances, everyone with young children has these moments and they understand (thanks friends!).

Yet I found a wonderful article about having young children and it made me feel a bit better, at least I to want to try harder to enjoy this part of my journey. Check it out here (the power of moms).

And now as I clean up from the day and sweep up the sand that came home with us, I pack away stroller supplies and restock for tomorrow's park outing. Here we go again. But I have an idea: Hey Reality, can we be Friends?!?

John in Cannes

2011-06-05T20:06:00.001-07:00

John's very brief summation:

Cannes (pronounced can) was a spectacular and glamorous experience. The festival (divided up into two parts, first the actual film festival, and second, the film market) provided many opportunities to network, see movies, screen my own movie and catch some celebrities (Mel Gibson, Jodie Foster, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Kirsten Dunst to name a few). I walked the red carpet several times on my way to watch the premieres of Pirates of the Caribbean, Bollywood, Death of a Samurai, Le Havre, Melancholia and The Beaver, not to mention the 6 other films I saw. I enjoyed fantastic firework shows, parties on the beach front and in yachts. I got a special sneak peak at the much anticipated Enders Game (yes, based on the book), meeting the film's director, producer and writers. It was amazing! Many thanks to my wife and family for their support. Next time, I'm bringing my wife along that red carpet.

Chillin' waterside at the American Pavilion

View from the Kodak yacht party with the tower of the castle in old town Cannes rising in the background.

Big Boy in Little Legs

2011-06-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

High Five! What is faster than a toddler learning to pick up speed? Hopefully mom. But this little guy is picking up his pace, keeping better balance and now its time for a leash. Yes, I've become "that" kind of mom that puts her toddler on a leash for safe-keeping. We ARE in New York City, people. He loves to walk on the sidewalk like a big kid. I love those moments when he will hold my hand!

At 16-17 months old this darling boy began climbing everything, I mean everything, chairs onto the table, getting upward to the height of bookcases, up toward lamps, etc.

Benjamin says "This" and "That" all the time, as well as "Dadda" and "Mom," and has his own version of saying: Hi, bye, Lilly, banana, dog, cat, milk/drink. He can sign a few words: bread, milk, please, banana. Still working on "more" instead of grunting.

And when he prays, he squints his eyes shut tightly, clasps his two hands by wrapping his sausage fingers together and grins a big smile. Oh, truly it makes us giggle to see him pray at the start of our family prayers. He also enjoys peek-a-boo and did that with this cute photo at the Botanical Gardens.

The last few months of Benjamin's adventures include discovering the sandbox at the playground. He loved the sensory feel and digging in the sand, obviously didn't care about getting dirty (but I did have to watch when he got tired and inserted thumb...yuck, must watch and clean for that moment.)

We adore you Benjamin! Your wide smile is genuine and heart warming. Your excitement makes us smile when you squeal with delight, see a dog, play with Lilly, want food, take a bath, or run to us with arms open for a hug. Those big blue eyes melt our hearts. Here's to becoming 18-months old next week...

L's Forehead Stitches

2011-05-30T20:05:00.000-07:00

It was a hard and scary time, but we are doing well now. On May 17th night, Lilly slipped on the wet stairs at the playground (thanks rain and cute shoes). She sliced her forehead on the stairs, it hurt, she was alert, in pain, scared -- mom, grandma and Ben were a bit shaken too. And daddy was gone; sob, sniff, breathe.

We raced up the hill toward home, mom carrying her, trying to keep a sock and pressure on Lilly's forehead. Strong and calm Grandma got ice at the corner store. Mom ran home to get supplies to race to the ER. Taxis were few that night, but we finally caught one and said blew kisses to Grandma and Ben on the corner.

It was a 5-6 hour experience at the ER. Lilly was SO brave!! She was calm and such a good girl. It was a very busy night at the ER, but thanks to a few phone calls (a friend who works there and notified them of our arrival) and thanks to our amazing H.T. Kyle and Emily who came to visit. We felt very blessed and strengthened.

The attending doctor came in. She was so sweet to talk with Lilly and smiled to calm both of us. The plastic surgery resident came and confirmed that a more experienced fellow/doctor would be available to make the stitches (although he warned us it could be hours or even the following day before we'd leave). Then he returned to say the doctor would be available within the hour. Tender mercies. They gave her some anti-anxiety medicine considering the placement of the wound; routine for kids and stitches between the eyes. The medicine made Lilly very loopy, actually pretty funny, giggly and she couldn't even walk to go potty (that was a sight, her swaying trying to walk, stand, etc. while I manage the details, ah!) She said the funniest things.

The plastic surgeon fellow, Stephanie, was wonderful. She was so kind to Lillian. The stitching went as well as we could've hoped. Lillian was strong and cheerful, as well as pretty loopy as I carried her out of the hospital and back in the taxi.

We got home after 1:30 am. Another tender mercy...since my phone died right at the end of surgery watching a show, I was unable to call my wonderful mother to let us in the building (and she had my keys from coming home with Benjamin), but thankfully a neighbor walked into the building just as we arrived. We gently knocked on our door and we were home at last! And then the anti-anxiety medicine made her start seeing things which was scary for her. She kept saying "who are those people?" and "what's going on over there in those houses?" It made her very unhappy and unable to relax...we finally got to sleep at 3 (me sleeping on her floor holding her hand). Ha, the things we do for family. But she awoke feeling better and didn't remember the pain or needles so we are very, very thankful.

We truly felt the strength from all the support given.
Thank you so much for your help Everyone!!!

Lilly drew this picture of our family which is a happy ending to the story...

Paris, France

2011-05-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

I am off on a plane to meet John in Paris! It has sounded so romantic (and so surreal that I'm actually leaving my sweet children with my kind mother) to go to France and meet my man in Paris!

John has had a wonderful time in CANNES. The Film Festival was amazing, must update tons about that. He saw Brad and Angelina, sat in the theater with Mel Gibson and other celebs. He walked the red carpet in his handsome tux. Many educational and fun experiences.

And now I'm counting my blessings that we get to meet in Paris... John was invited with the Producers from his class to attend the Cannes Film Festival. John's short film Kofi was accepted into the American Pavillion category of the festival, so naturally he had to attend that part which required him staying a few days longer at Cannes. And since he was changing his ticket anyway, we looked into the chance of me flying over; happily discovering that I could get most of my flight covered with skymiles, my passport was renewed, and we'd both gotten a few side job-sources of income. John had a few days of interviewing and I got a few tending jobs. I'd also been saving $$ for new camera yet chose to make due with my camera a little longer and put my nest egg instead into a French experience!

We are staying at a quaint little place. It is a 30-min walk to the Eiffle Tower and away from the craze of tourists and includes a kitchenette, fridge, yay! Here are a few sites I've been looking at:
Romantic Walks in Paris
Eiffle Tower tips
100 Best things to do in Paris

Outdoor market

It is really hard to leave the children. I miss them already. The tragedy of Lilly's fall and forehead stitches makes my heart ache. As does my sweet Benjamin's little one-year old arms reaching out for a hug. But its time for a date with my husband. Wow, Paris. Still unbelievable. Still trying to tell myself that I deserve this. Still in awe at the idea and gearing up to embrace the entire wonderful experience! :)

Paris...here we come!

Lillyism: Niceites & When I'm 18

2011-05-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

L: "Can we have cereal in the morning?" (she loves her cereal and asks this every night)

H: "Yes we'll have cereal for breakfast. Close your eyes and go to sleep."

L: "If I have bad dreams I will pray and Jesus will help me."

H: "That is good to pray. Sweet dreams."

As we were walking home today:

L: "Jesus wants us to be nice. Right mom?"

H: "Yes. It is important to be nice."

L: "Its not nice to hit. When my friend hit me, Jesus wants them to be nice."

L: "Kung Fu Panda!" (with great enthusiasm seeing the KungFu Panda 2 movie poster)

H: "Do you want to go go see that movie at the theater when Daddy returns from France?"

L: "No. When I'm eighteen I'll go to the movie theater."

According to her as of late, a lot of things are going to happen when she's 18. Play on sweet girl!!

Easter Celebrations

2011-05-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

Our little Easter family picture right outside on the street after Church (thanks to the iPhone camera). It was a lovely day! Mom and Lillian each sang in the choirs during sacrament meeting, the kids were sweet (and not yet filled with sugar), we had a crockpot roast awaiting for dinner.

It was a nice day. And we even had some goodies to dive into!

The week before it was a little cold but we still went out to Riverside Park for the Easter Egg Hunt!! It was great to see Lillian and Benjamin racing to collect eggs, which then prompted many'o egg hunts the week after leading up to the search for their baskets on Easter afternoon.

We also watched a children's claymation movie about Jesus as well. It was nice to balance out all the bunny and egg festivities with some good conversation about the Real meaning to the celebration. Lillian was very interested in the life of Jesus and has asked many questions since, also restating her version of the details, so very smart. Happy Easter!!

Love and Light, for All

2011-05-03T09:44:00.000-07:00

There is a lot happening around the world, ten years after 9/11. Many mixed emotions, but I really appreciate this quote...

"I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Super Saturday, really?

2011-05-01T15:56:00.000-07:00

"Super" meaning Non-Stop. Here's what happened yesterday:

Got up at 6:30 and kids woke at 7 with John...but then we didn't stop Going All Day Long!
Heidi did the Bronx Zoo 5K race; from 7:00-10:30 (thanks friends Hailey, Morgan, Amanda)
Tribecca Film Festival Family day - Love this activity! We left at 11:30, returned at 5:00. Saw circus performers, bubbles, face painting, giant cardboard castle, had deluxe flavored-popcorn, did a kid craft, walked amidst the musicians, mini-concerts, puppet shows and vendors, then finished at the park playground (saw friends Becks, Olsons, Smocks, & Paula). It was super fun.
Had a picnic of M2M turkey burgers on Columbia campus as we awaited a concert which was free and two streets away.
Saw Snoop Dog perform on campus (literally 300 yards from our apt), kids danced, played and after about two songs... we were done.
John went to the library to study. Mom and kids went home to ready for bed.
Kids asleep by 7:30 after busy fun-filled day. Mom started cleaning the house to ready for the Sabbath. Lots to clean! Tidy up piles, counters, empty bags, clean up toys, vacuum, fold laundry, etc.
John returned at 10:45 pm from library, not feeling well.
Lillian awoke at the same time after throwing up ALL over the place! Puke everywhere, floor, bed, walls, blankets, toys, everywhere (may I add, lovely color; carrots, mango, spaghetti-Os). Thankfully not the carpet. Counting blessings. Benjamin content awake in his crib. Lilly took second bath of the night. It was now after midnight, distribute bread and water, cuddle kids, breathe a sigh (instead of a cry).
It had been 18 hours and momma's feet and legs tingled from non-stop go-going all day long.

How was your day?? I hope it was great.

P.S. Today was better. John went to church. Lillian awoke all chipper, happy, tummy feeling fine, including appetite. Kids rested, played contently and watched a Jesus movie. Heidi had loads of yuck laundry to do (oh, how I missed having a washer/dryer to use!). But as a friendly woman reminded me, "this too shall pass." The lessons learned on Fast Sunday are good. And we are all the better for enduring.

Sweet Children

2011-04-30T18:35:00.000-07:00

Really, they are SO adorable!

On this day, we were supposed to meet various friends at the parks, but an unfortunate series of events delayed us and that afternoon we missed all of them, twice. We played on the grass anyway. Lilly rode her scooter with delight. Ben discovered sticks. Both kids made piles of rocks and intently redistributed them in new places. Despite the situation, the trees were waking up, Spring was coming and we truly felt the Joy of the Outdoors!

John, the Man

2011-04-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

John has been traveling. So as I've finally taken some time to look through pictures and blog a bit. These pictures are from some recent adventures in CENTRAL PARK and capture some big parts of our man.

The Leader, the Captain of our row boat, the Film Maker, Storyteller, and Dreamer (with the boat house in the background where it represents big movies made here and where he aims to eat after graduation), the Producer of our life path...

The Adventurer and Climber (here he is practicing his parkour skills with some random guys jumping and leaping off these stairs at Bethesda Fountain - J was impressive as got up and then did a back flip off the railing)

The "He-Man" of strength and super-hero of Daddy-ness (we have pictures of him doing this side-ways handstand everywhere we travel, its a standard shot of him, displaying his awesome power of balance!)

Congratulations on putting all these skills to use as you've pushed yourself to the limits, juggled so many projects, tasks and responsibilities as you finish your second year of Graduate School!!

We Love You!

What would we do without Friends?

2011-04-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

We have such good times with great friends here. Counting many blessings...

Lilly with Ava and Ella at the Conservatory Gardens

James and Lilly eating popcorn by the Cathedral

May and Lilly playing with stuffed animals

Ava, Lilly and Lillian J. walking hand in hand after Preschool

They are so fun and so cute!

Lilly's talk on "Prophets"

2011-04-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

Lillian gave her first talk in Primary last month. She did so well and prepared for two days, she recited/repeated, she drew pictures of the prophet with happy people listening. Its a shame the kids couldn't hear her since there was no microphone and she was a tad soft spoken. But WE heard her give this talk ten times and are SO proud of her! Good job Lilly and thank you for sharing your testimony with this talk:

"Heavenly Father wants us to be happy. He calls Prophets and they teach us how to be good. Heavenly Father speaks to prophets and the prophets speak to us. They teach what Jesus says. There are many prophets in the scriptures. Our prophet today is President Thomas Monson. I am happy when I listen to the Prophet because I know he is a man of God. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

Crafting...a collection. Intentions in motion.

2011-04-23T20:08:00.000-07:00

Crafting is such a great pursuit. I've many good intentions in the arts and crafts arena. I actually enjoy dreaming, creating and much of the process, yet many are left unfinished. I have a long list of to do's in this area...sewing, photography, paper card making, painting, drawing, scrapbooking, gardening, knitting, crocheting, flower making and arrangements, quilting, and the list goes on.

When one creates, one is uplifted, feels enriched and productive. I long to have a blog or scrapbook of all my projects. One day. I've started but that too is a work in progress. Yet I realize that there will never be a grand finale of my ambitions. I should always be working on something, good things a plenty, right?!

So to assist me along my journey to becoming and learning skills, I went with some friends to the Martha Stewart show. Yes indeed, we went for the taping and watch six segments about various crafting skills. I admit I want to try many of them and got excited to wander the website and assemble my next set of crafting ambitions.
It was a fun afternoon, thanks Ladies!

And thankfully, to help me get my projects in motion, our RS now has a crafting group to continue good motherly/womanly ambitions to create handcrafted goods. One of the things that keep us sane amidst the challenges of living in the Big Apple. Go Manhattan Crafters!

Flowers a plenty. My Favorite Things.

2011-04-21T18:15:00.000-07:00

LIFE is a GARDEN. There are great scenic spots. There are less pleasant places. It is full of living things...including weeds. The hard times can be no fun. So to minimize the weeds I want to see the flowers and stop to enjoy them every possible moment. Lately I'm counting my blessings with flowers. The Macy's flower show, lovely! The daffodils at 30Rock, stunning. The tulips, grape hyacinths and crocus in the parks...awesome.

Don't you just LOVE SPRING! The flowers. The budding trees. The fresh feeling of growth, renewing... I love walking to the Conservatory Garden in Central Park to see the buds and blooms! Here's a glimpse of the pure love and joys of Springtime...

Lillian stops to smell the flowers.

We went on Monday and the tulips are just opening. The daffodils are still shining their happy faces too; Benjamin was so cute walking around the garden paths.

John and Lilly at Rockefeller Center early April.

Magnolia trees in bloom.

So I just had to make some flower hair clips, some for Lilly and me and others for baby gifts for Kathrine and Ananda who both welcomed little girls in the last ten days!

Lilly and I returned to the Macy's show, again, for a mommy/daughter date. So fun! The trees and towers here are all in bloom! The blessings are bursting, I just need to keep counting and stop to smell the flowers more often. Thank you Springtime!

Benjaminism

2011-03-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

We now need to baby proof the next level higher...Benjamin is climbing the furniture! Wow. In addition to walking all around, he uses his energy to get into everything, and quickly. But man, we sure do adore this darling boy!

Benjamin is a fantastic little guy with bright blue eyes and a smile to melt your heart. He is now 15 months old and testing his cuteness with all the energy he can muster; if he's out of the stroller he is climbing anything, playing with sister, pulling all the toys and books out to explore, and then sitting to read the books. He loves to ride this toy, sometimes sister pushes him or he pushes her on it, very cute.

Ben is seriously such a good kid and will happily sit in the stroller for hours too. Thanks to the thumb as well. He enjoys doing whatever we're doing too, content to sit with us, esp if we are eating. Oh how he loves to eat and is now working on his fork skills. He's used his pincher skills for months but now loves to put the already filled spoon/fork into his mouth. Then he'll clap when we say "yay!" since he can successfully insert the food without a big mess. Yay!

He pushes cars, trains and animal toys around, as well has adopts his sister's toys too. He loves music and does a darling little bounce-dance with the biggest grin on his face. Indeed, we adore him; how can you resist that wink?

St. Pattys Day celebration

2011-03-24T19:44:00.000-07:00

The St. Patricks Day Parade celebrated its 250th year with quite a fun party. Its the oldest parade in the nation and I am still amazed by the tradition it represents. It was SO PATRIOTIC! The parade is full of people (not floats, balloons, or cars), people playing hundreds of bagpipes plus armed forces from army and military including the local police and fire departments. There were thousands of people all along Fifth Avenue. It starts at 11:00 and goes five hours. We went early to get a place to meet with friends - though we left after two hours we went to Central Park and heard the bag pipes until we left the zoo at 4:30 pm. It was incredible to see the various costumes, groups marching and the we loved it.

Benjamin's first parade and he was rocking to the music and loved sitting with the big sisters on the curb. The procession was quite a sight with flags, costumes and bag pipes. Lilly and her friends Ava and Ella were darling in their green ribbons too.

We had such a fun time with our friends, six adults and six kids...yay for holidays!

Sisters on the Snow & News

2011-03-23T15:44:00.000-07:00

Need to share two impressive links and stories of our Sisters.

My sister, Julia miraculously survived being hit by a car four years ago. She was featured on a front page newspaper spread in the SLC Standard Examiner. Check out this great article about my awesome sister who lives and loves life despite the near-fatal accident (which threw her a hundred feet, both broken legs, bones and caused emergency open heart surgery), and at 17 she's a great runner, optimist and senior in high school. She really rocks!

And for all you skiers and snow lovers out there, take a sneak peek at sister-in-law, Suzanne Graham. She is a professional freeskier and base jumper; an amazing, talented, much-more-than-a-snow-bunny type of gal. One of the very few female extreme skiers, she gets her picture taken on big mountain (check out her site to see her latest video she did racing down the cliffs and steep snow slopes; Suzanne is the skier in the orange jacket). Yes, John lives through her amazing risk and adventures, so take a look in case you want to too. :)

Day 26: Bromance

2011-03-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

John the Producer has been busy working on this film, Dear Dog I Love You.

Many hours, much to organize, help coordinate, manage and produce. Way to direct it, Jed. Way to produce, John and Stevan. Way to grow beards men! Living the dream!! :)

Visit from Aaron/Ann/Dax

2011-03-21T17:53:00.000-07:00

Aaron, Ann and Daxton came to visit last week and we had such a fun time! Amidst our adventures during the week, we explored the Natural History Museum and FAO Swartz store...

We went to Rockefeller Center, the Lego store with them as well as our first experience to the Top of the Rock. What a lovely view; here's the Empire State Building and downtown.

And here's Lilly and Heidi pointing to Columbia University and Central Park (uptown).

We just had to do the Ferris Wheel at Toys R Us, since we rode it as a family last Spring Break and Lilly's been talking about it for a year, looking forward to ride it with Dax.

We also ATE out and enjoyed wonderful NYC food like Shake Shack, Thai Market, Grey's Papaya, etc. and hung out at home a bit playing cards at night. So fun! Here's Uncle Aaron with Ben and Dax watching TV.

Benjamin and Lillian LOVED having them around, Benjamin crawled into their suitcase as if to say he was going with. It was really fun to have them here. Ann and Heidi went out for gelato, yum. John and Aaron got tickets to the David Letterman show, saw Steve Martin and sat behind Alec Baldwin.

And Lilly and Dax's favorite part was playing here at the apartment. It was the most expensive playdate ever, and the cousins were loving it!

Chronicles of Playdates

2011-03-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

We've been getting out with friends for outdoor and indoor playdates! It is wonderful to meet up with friends, for both the kids AND mom. The weather is slowly getting lovely, teasing with a few magnificent days then getting rainy, cold and wet on other days. This day we went to the Central Park Zoo on a sunny 60-degree weather day!

Another day we took the girls out for tea, getting fairy dusted and scones at Alice's Tea Cup.

We had Lillian J. over to play and the two L's had tea, pretended, were at home in the tent, dressed up and giggled for hours.

After dance class we sometimes linger all together and this particular Tuesday we had a picnic at Lesley's house. The girls were darling as ever.

Lucas and Lilly at the park where they went down this bar/ramp a hundred times.

And this week it was 70-degrees on Friday (ah, a wicked trick with the next day at 50), so we enjoyed the sunshine by shedding the coat and playing hard at the park! It was fantastic. We had Kaitlyn and Madison over to play; everyone happily walked then ran up and down the slide a million times.

(Contrast that with the cold snow which lined our parks from just weeks before.)

Friday was also the day Benjamin had his FIRST official park day walking around, climbing the stairs and went down the slide (by himself). He also ate a rock (thankfully did not swallow), but he loved the independent park play and we have the dirty hands and clothes to prove it.

And at the end, this scene was SO New York. Twelve dogs. Me and my group of four kids waiting to cross the street. What a sight! Gotta love NYC.

Lillyism - Waiting for Cereal

2011-03-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

Lilly has been waking up way early in the morning lately. Last night was an especially eventful one - both kids woke three times - so when she came into our room early this morning we told her to go back to bed. Then she started yelling "Mooooommmmm!" (over and over) from her bed, Ben was now awake and we were grumpy. After being up with them three times I asked John to go in, asking him to remind her that we don't yell like that and to give some sort of consequence (like no cereal until 8:00, ah, torture for her). John described that he repeatedly told her to return to bed, the nice Dad he is... yet by 7:30 she peeked around the corner of the living room where J & B were. Lilly had a sad face like she was ready to cry and said:

L: "Daddy, I prayed two times that you wouldn't be mean." (translation: no cereal)
J: "What did you do?"
L: "I folded my arms and prayed that you wouldn't be mean."
John then gave her a bowl of Cheerios. How could he resist?

Day 21: Hands

2011-02-25T20:01:00.000-08:00

Lilly's and my newly painted nails.

My assignment is using the macro-mode (which I loved using in auto), but hmm. At least I get to capture my daughter's darling fingers and hands along side mine. Such a contrast. Her innocence, smooth and perfect skin. My weathered wrinkles show the time, thirty extra years of experience. And my hope that these hands will always hold fast and reach towards each other.

Day 20: When They're Home

2011-02-24T19:44:00.000-08:00

When we're home the kids play and play. Lately there's lots of THIS:

Laughing and total interactive playing between Benjamin and Lillian. Seriously So Adorable!

Since sweet Benjamin is in the stroller a ton when we're out, he loves using all his energy when we're home, speed crawling, climbing the ottoman, etc. AND, He is now walking!!

There's also lots of this (laying on the floor reading books or playing).

When John is home there's lots of this and that.

Wonderful time hanging out TOGETHER!

Day 18: Going Out

2011-02-23T19:21:00.000-08:00

Its nice to have this Joy of Love photography assignment to encourage us to go out on a date and take a picture of it! (Our 8th Anniversary is on Monday, so I'll post a picture when we go out together.) Yet since I'm playing single mom this week, I'm posting a picture of us "going out" to the store!

Indeed, we made a trip of going to Target on the east side with our friends. Which is a big errand, but one I'm actually fond of since I've found many basics like season packets, baby/kid supplies, more affordable foods, cereal, etc (and it can be quite fun). I'm so thankful we can get over there, despite the crazy logistics. Let me outline our adventure...what we go through just to take an errand to Target: take one bus down to a second crosstown bus, then walk two long blocks to the store, holding bags for return trip plus child's hand and carrying baby, then find a double cart (to put kids and all the duffel bags and coats you hauled), wander the store for the goods on our list (leisurely so as to enjoy the shopping and indoor play space), potty break, lunch break at the pizza hut inside the store, Lilly bonked her head, continue shopping, and after buying it all one must carefully pack it into carry-able bags (preferably large bags so as to carry only one load from the taxi into the building and up to the apartment). Here I am with three giant bags (which you can't really see the size since sweet Lilly took the picture), an insulated bag for the frozen food AND a backpack full of heavy items. It was a five hour errand. Yes, I feel like I rock. Did I mention I carried 23-lb Benjamin up along with all these heavy shopping bags on my own? :)

Lillyism - what she knows

2011-02-23T15:47:00.000-08:00

1) Lilly found birthday card a while ago and with finger pointing to words, she read/came up with this (same thing) twice...

"I love you dear Lilly.
I send you (you go) to New York with Mommy and Daddy...
God be with you...
If you get lost we'll come and get you.
You're with family..."

2) Today she told me it was my birthday...and that I was one-hundred-and-eight! 108?! Really? (Sometimes I feel that old.) And mind you, she said she was eight-years-old, so she knowingly put the extra one-hundred years on my age.

3) When we were visiting family with a piano, she was playing the keys then pointed to Benjamin and said, "I want him to play with me when he's bigger." Then she saw her aunt go out running and told Julia, "I want to run with you someday!"
(Keep setting goals my sweet dreamer!)

Day 19: When They're Gone

2011-02-22T19:24:00.000-08:00

When John's gone, the apartment is missing 1/4th of us, but we keep on keeping on. I could take a picture of the lack of his presence or emptiness in our surroundings (as the photo-assignment suggests), but I see evidence of his absence enough already. So we try to get out, have play dates with friends, adventures in the city and enjoy what we have. Can't sit home and cry, we must continue on and bloom where we're planted. On Friday we spent seven+ hours OUT! Thankfully it was a rare February day of lovely 60 degree weather.

"Super-Friday" - we went to daytime book club, helped a friend with some party prep, went to a store, then headed to the Central Park Zoo, walked the park and stopped for groceries then walked home (all the while pushing 80-90 lbs). Lilly played with friends for hours and hours so I'm very thankful I had the double stroller for her when she needed a break from the SIX MILES we walked that day!

Central Park "Mall"

When John is gone, I also try to remember him with fondness. :) One of these long evenings home alone I tackled a large pile of papers to organize. I prepared well for the task. After the kids went to bed I baked a frozen chocolate croissant, had my "cherish" mug along side the roses John gave me. I was thankful he gave me flowers for L's birthday/valentines and that they created a nice environment to sustain me.

Day 16: Together / Self-Portrait

2011-02-22T19:03:00.000-08:00

I love this picture of us.

Birthday #4 for Lillian

2011-02-20T20:47:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday sweet Lillian!

The Garden Party was a great success! We had ten little friends over to play and it was really wonderful. Lillian has been looking forward to a party, she even picked the Garden theme, excited to have her friends come to play, and asked that only she blow out the candles. I made her a giant cupcake cake, topped with a garden of edible candy flowers, homemade flower suckers, flying butterflies, etc. It was quite fun to eat on her actual birthday -and we had flower and gummy-bug cupcakes at the party.

The preparations were as fun as the actual party; I made flower crowns for all the girls and ivy crowns for the boys to wear as we played in our "garden." We started decorating a few days before and throughly enjoyed all the details. We put up flower garland, streamers, silk flowers, signs and balloons hung from ceiling. Lilly and I made candy flower suckers - for party favors and on cake. Lilly even helped make these butterflies from banana chips, pretzel and chocolate.

The previous pics are from my camera, but I must acknowledge the
rest of the pictures are thanks to my amazing photographer friend Lesley. She captured some great pictures. Thank you!

The Garden Party started at 10:00 and we greeted each friend along the hallway with their garden crown (being queen of the flowers and king of the bugs).

We had a garden parade while playing musical instruments around the two rooms of our apartment while playing I-spy, we marched, played loudly, twirled and then started the games.

We played toss the Bug, toss the Flower, flower-flower-bug (duck/goose), then worked on a foam craft and danced with our flower and bugs in the air.

The energy was good but with such a large group we had a pretty structured itinerary, so we let them watch a nature-themed Blues Clues while we prepared lunch.

We had a garden picnic on the floor. Ten little plates filled with mini crescent wrapped hot dogs, flower shaped jigglers, banana chip butterflies, grapes, carrots, chick-crackers and animal crackers.

Then we brought out the giant cupcake to sing and blow out the candles. Everybody ate a cupcake while Lilly opened presents.

Here's more of The Decor... The Food... and Party details!!!

A Huge THANK YOU to those of you who sent things and helped to create such a great party!!!

And here are a few pictures from Lilly's actual birthday, on Sunday, two days after the party. We "woke" her up with the cake lit, singing to her in bed. Here she's gathered around her birthday display on the table, such a happy Birthday-Girl.

We invited some friends over after church to sing and eat the giant cupcake cake. Lilly and Lucas have been friends since the first month we moved here. (Here are some pics from M's camera)

Me and Mackenzie.

It was such a fun little gathering to light the candles one last time, sing and dive into that cake - which was both strawberry and chocolate flavors. Yum! Happy Birthday Lillian!

Dear Lillian,

You are such a gift to us.
Thank you for being such a sweet daughter,
kind sister, wonderful friend and loving person. You are thoughtful, smart, sincere, beautiful, athletic, strong, tender, helpful, considerate and amazing. We appreciate your desire to pray at every meal, to be thankful in expressing gratitude for the little things, your interest to read stories, to love your brother, want to run to him when he awakes and play with him every day. We admire your happiness at pretending and joy for learning.
We smile at your love for dancing, climbing, drawing, singing, jumping, stickers, playdough, princess everything, gardens, flowers, butterflies, cereal, bread, broccoli, fruit, movies, and families! Thank you for being wonderful. Happy 4th Birthday sweetheart.
We Love You!
Hugs,
Mom & Dad

Day 17: Staying In

2011-02-19T23:06:00.000-08:00

This photography assignment is about "staying in" - what we do when we are home. (This is also practice for me to use the self-timer within the manual mode, since we ALL had to be in the shot.)

So, we had a family date a week ago Saturday, the night before the big production week (where John would be gone all week+). We ordered in dinner/delivery, a rare treat. We played Wii and danced. John was sick and I looked ragged but we had a family home evening in and it was great! And its nice to document what we do when we stay in.

Joy of Love, Day 14: Wedding Band

2011-02-14T18:08:00.000-08:00

The Joy of Love photography online class is still in the sideline of our life. Now that I know more about manual mode and how to control the settings I've become disappointed with the quality of my pictures. I'm still excited to keep learning, but will have to tolerate the lack of crisp lines, background blur, etc. and practice the joy of photography with this "finding the joy of February" photo experience. (I'm often tempted to switch back to auto-mode on my camera, to get those crisp lines esp in the eyes, but I'll keep working it and take pictures with the good morning light.) :)

Day 14 is about Wedding bands/Jewelry. Rings. Valentines Day. Marriage. A token of commitment, affection, promise. I've heard that in ancient times a king would bestow a ring to a lord or land owner to represent their power over a portion of his reign. Similarly, our rings represent power given and received, of the heart-kind.

I like this look, of a child's hand wearing the bands. I also like how it shows the sweet innocence and how our child is grasping on to those symbols of our love.

Happy Valentines Day Love!

We recovered from a rocking birthday party, a busy pre-production and mid-term assignment time, enjoyed a nice quiet dinner after the kids went to bed. Thank you.

Day 13: Routines

2011-02-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

Photography lesson #13, capturing Routines.

Every night, the last question Lillian asks me before I leave her room is, "In the morning can we have cereal?" And every night, I say "Yes, good night." Truly, she is looking forward to her favorite meal/food as she falls asleep. Cereal. It is a sweet moment of the day, as long as its not too early in the morning.

And after dinner most nights the kids love to take their baths. They are so cute splashing and pretending in the water. Here's an old pic of darling Ben after getting all clean (auto-camera mode).

And at nighttime, we have story time. This one was special with just Dad & Lilly.

Ah, the finale breathe at the end of the day...

Day 12: Eyes

2011-02-12T19:10:00.000-08:00

How can you resist those eyes?

I love the eye! I used to enjoy drawing eyes when I was younger. Today's photo lesson is to experiment there, but I can't help but take a look at each family member's. Whose resemble who? But in any way, I love the light in them!

And today, here is a quick self snapshot because it fits with the topic. I got my eyes glamored up, actually a makeup-makeover for NYC Fashion Week! It was so cool, random, but super fun to follow a few friends inside a "truck" that they had parked outside the church. We were there for a Primary party so we just happened upon it and traded off with kids. I got the "smokey" look and I've never worn so much make up but it looked fabulous.

Joy of Love, Day 11: Dreams

2011-02-11T18:58:00.000-08:00

I think all four of us dream about having a house and a yard again one day...

It may not be what we get now. We're "living the dream" in other ways right now, here. The Big Apple. Chasing a Dream - J's lifelong goal of Film/degree for the Dream job. Dream school. Dream Friends. Our life has many Dream-like qualities and I am thankful for these parts that make up for the hard parts about living here. And I will remember the scripture (Jacob 7:26):

...the time passed away with us, and also our lives passed away like as it were unto us a dream...

So I don't want this time to pass too quickly because it IS wonderful. And every Dream takes many steps. Many building blocks to create. So we will keep on keeping on!

Lilly got her first set of girl-Legos!
John and her played all morning. It was wonderful.

Day 10: Space where they feel comfortable

2011-02-10T18:40:00.000-08:00

Space, lines, light, face, angles, clothes, surroundings...there is so much to think about outside the camera buttons! And I'm loving it. Today is a general category with a long photography lesson online and in my camera+manual. And my fabulous son is the center of it all.

Benjamin is so adorably happy on the floor. This is his space. Thankfully it is clean most days and thankfully we have nice floor space in this 900 sq ft apartment. He is so comfortable here (second to being in my arms but then I couldn't take the pic). He'll take steps but crawls enthusiastically as he's much quicker on the floor. He rules the hard wood and carpet spaces, chasing balls, walking (near running) with his riding toy, but always speedily crawling (some say like a crab) as he races with his 14-month old, little boy energy. And we love it.

Joy of Love, Day 9: Passions & Hobbies

2011-02-09T18:06:00.000-08:00

I get to document the Passions & Hobbies of my loved ones today!

John's passion is of course for Film. He is on the computer many hours a day in addition to sitting in many classes studying the topic. As you can see on the clock in the background, it is 11:40 pm and he is just barely getting started for the evening. I could take this picture every single night in our home (and some nights in the library) BUT this photo would not fully describe him if it didn't also represent his passion for Family. So, this is evident by the ring visible on his finger. Yes, not staged, but this perfectly shows how he (and we) try to maintain that ever-challenging work/home life balance. It is truly important. And he is passionate about that too.

Lillian's hobbies are often expressed in pretending. She loves to play with princesses, lately with their horses, and create little families with anything she can (silverware, mismatched toys, etc.). In this picture I asked her to set up her recent favorites so I could focus on her toys with her in the background. It worked and that's all I could get with her that day. :)

And may I add that I'm quite excited about learning these manual settings for our regular old camera! I'm already limited by light and the basics of this "old" thing-but I'm having so much fun! And adding a fancy-camera to my wish list for when we're through with school. :) Photography is an increasing hobby for me. I take hundreds of pictures where I'm experimenting with many manual levels with the f-stop, shutter speed, ISO, natural light and focus settings. It is great to capture pictures of things and people - yet much more fun to post pictures of family on here.

Day 8: Gift from the Heart

2011-02-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

Today's photo captures John's service, dishes. Yes we wash each and every dish by hand. And some days (with all he has to do) this is truly a big Gift from the Heart!

Today he was a super helper and did all the dishes, two times. Needless to say we're trying to wash each dish as we go along the day. :)

Joy of Love, Day 7: Generations

2011-02-07T12:47:00.000-08:00

There are many things that pass from generation to generation. A look, a feature, a skill, an attitude, interests, habits, etc. We always hope that what we can give to the next generation is the best of ourselves. As parents we wish we could forge only the best paths together with our wonderful children. Many times we succeed. Other times we miss the mark, but that's what life is about. Learning. Loving through the mistakes. Picking up to be stronger and better the next time. Living!

I love being a mother. I love my amazing two children and often am in disbelief that a new generation is begun within the walls of my home. It is incredible (as well as overwhelming, tiresome, but mostly indescribably incredible). The new generation is strong. They are sent here to earth to do some remarkable tasks. I want to be and do all I can to help this rising generation. I think of how I was helped growing up and I recognize how valuable the previous generations are to fostering a foundation. I really wish we lived closer to the grandparents and generations who paved the way before, but we don't and that has to be okay. I love our extended family and all they do for us. So IF we did live close I would fill these pages with pictures of them, their dear faces, their loving eyes and capture the love shared between the three/four generations which I love. (And soon I will need to do an entire post of some old pictures from all of our UT/CO trips!)

Now on to what I DID photograph in our home. There are many things passed from our two generations in our home which I'd like to photograph, but one fit very well for the Valentine season; a shared love, craving, yes longing for COOKIES. Yes, my husband and child love, love cookies. Silly as it seems to dedicate this post to a sugary treat, but we decorated cookies at a friend's house (thanks Lesley!) and I just had to capture the amount of JOY that passed from father and daughter as they could barely contain themselves to grab them off the plate. It was very cute.

Lilly decorating the cookies with friends (Ella/Ava).

Literally I had one second to take the plate picture before hands grabbed cookies and they nibbled them up. Still working on changing the camera settings quickly enough. :) But I love this!

Day 6: Who They Love

2011-02-06T18:23:00.000-08:00

I needed more pictures of my dear husband in this series of photos. Sunday afternoon the sun was shining in our windows, just home from church everyone's hair and clothes were still nice...time for a photo shoot (and so I could practice various camera buttons/settings).

Today's theme: Who THEY Love.

I asked Lillian what she loved and her first response was "Benjamin!" Then she listed off some toys (lion family and princess/prince set), her doggy, etc. I'll have to capture a few of those things later.

My husband's choice was the kids and they would obviously choose him. They adore their Daddy!

Day 5: Love to hate

2011-02-05T18:17:00.000-08:00

Here's a scene I see often. My dear husband's face illuminated by the computer. Ah, love this...um, I admit I'm jealous of the little thing as IT gets so many hours of his time, he stares at it so intently, gives so much of himself to what's inside of it. Even with the mixed feelings I have for this technological piece between us, I can add this to my Joy of LOVE research (and he will sit still for me to practice different camera settings). :) And I must say how thankful I am that John is so devoted to being a great guy and doing so much of THIS makes him great at what he does! So, Thanks Love.

Joy of Love, Day 4: What they wear

2011-02-04T21:40:00.001-08:00

Today gave me ample opportunity to practice various settings on my camera. I thought of all the options to photograph...accessories, shoes, clothes - yet the activities of the day took me on a fun sequence of headbands, flower crowns and haircuts! Plus the camera exploration while I tried to capture the day's events. (May I say I love learning about my camera and capturing my loved ones - sans John, he didn't want to be photographed.)

Benjamin in the morning, wearing just his diaper as he scurried away trying to get him dressed. He is such a little darling!!

Lillian LOVES to wear headbands. Every day she asks if she can wear one, then matches her outfit, so I had to document this today. She was gracious enough to let me take fifty pictures of her today as I tried various settings, then rewarded with a candy. This headband is her favorite.

We wore flower crowns for a bit today - I'm making them for Lillian's birthday. Both kids were cute to wear it around to test it out.

Ben's wearing a NEW HAIR CUT!! Yes we did it today, with the help of my dad. (Thank you Dad!). Ben looks like a little man with his new missionary-cut. Oh, my heart cried, those long locks were so soft and now he looks so grown up. Sigh.

Day 3: Then and Now

2011-02-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

Benjamin is now almost 14 months old. Oh, how I love his happy eyes, joyful smile, the strength and goodness this boy exudes. Even at every stage of his first year. He is a wonderful being!

THEN:

and NOW:

We could barely get this little photo shoot today, but I love his smile and pure JOY as he laughs in this picture. (and say goodbye to the long locks over the ears...yes, we know its time for a haircut) :)

Day 2: How they look

2011-02-02T17:31:00.000-08:00

...before they sleep. Ah, often the moments before bedtime are filled with a hazed, hurried rush to get them into pjs, clean, teeth brushed and into bed; but today it was sweet to capture the still, sweet SIGH of the calming of the day.

My darling children.

And one more of Lillian as she literally crawls into bed at 7:15 pm. Love her room. Love her excitement to read books, cuddle, listen to music and then hold my hand as the day slips away.

Joy of Love, Day 1: What They Do

2011-02-01T21:43:00.000-08:00

I'm starting this photography free online class with daily lessons on my camera and photo taking. Needless to say I'm very excited and its motivating me to catch up on old blog posts so I can create and capture these daily photos of "those I love." The Willette "Joy of Love" course (click to join in on the fun) encourages photography exploration and offers daily lessons to help. So here it is:

DAY 1: what they do

Lilly at Ballet Dance class. She is learning, soaking up everything Miss Clair says, to sit up strait, walk with toes and arms in the right place. Lillian is loving this!!

After a day of dance, friends, errands and even a nap...we meet Grandpa downtown (who is here for work).

We just HAD to visit Crumbs cupcake shop. Lillian is enjoying her special treat!

Benjamin is enjoying his book...he really likes to read, turn pages and hold onto his books. And his thumb. :)

Thanksgiving 2010

2011-01-30T19:06:00.000-08:00

We had a nice Thanksgiving day which started out the day before seeing the big parade balloons for Macys parade. It was fun to tour the area since we were watching it on TV this year. We saw Spiderman, Horton, Smurfs, Shriek, Kung Fu Panda, and many holiday shapes.
While watching the Thanksgiving parade, John worked on the fabulous turkey! Wow, he is amazing with that bird - second year in a row he has researched and cooked the big turkey. It was delicious.
The meal was a full spread with candied yams, potatoes, gravy, green beans, stuffing, homemade rolls, cranberry jelly and pies. We went all out since we hosted John's cousin Tad for the holiday. Yay for family, celebration and yummy food!!

Our Street

2011-01-28T22:10:00.001-08:00

I really want to catch up on all the wonderful things that have happened over two months...but since I haven't yet, I'm going to start with a few happenings on our street that we want to remember about living in the Big Apple.

Today we heard cars honking outside our building, two horns exchanging communication, back and forth. So Lilly and I went to the window to see what the two horns were talking about, only to see our entire street was lined with cars, waiting on a truck. We watched and counted taxis as they drove past. And...life goes on.

Tonight we heard an accordion player jamming right outside our apartment building. It was after midnight so I'm glad our movie ended in time for us to hear it, open the window and watch him play. There was another guy doing a little jig, river-dancing it right there in the middle of the street. The cool sound of the accordion rose up seven stories; at one point he was playing some Lady Gaga, a third guy joined in the fun and then they walked down the street...still playing and the other two singing away.

I love how we can hear a saxophone player jam on the corner of Broadway, during the warm weather of course. But for a few hours he just plays and I can hear his smooth jazz songs and see the glimmer of his gold instrument from my window.

Besides the annoying students/frat-boys and their crazy, loud parties, we like this place, our street. And sometimes we just love all the other the unique things about living in this amazing city!

Motherhood...the ultimate test

2011-01-22T17:52:00.000-08:00

I like this sign I saw on a truck in the city (maybe a movie truck?). This logo reminds me that my "Mommy-Muscles" are being made strong here in NYC. Last Fall I spoke with a friend who was becoming a new mom and I'd just told her how wonderful kids are...then, the hour following tested my conviction. Both my kids were tired and wiped out from enjoying the Big Apple pace of life and I couldn't get them to bed fast enough, so at one point all three of us were in tears. I really had to hang on to what I'd just said, yet I was cringing that I'd just described how wonderful it is being a mother - and then here I was at such a low point.

I know the Lord allows us to be tested. How ironic though, I had my own voice telling me what I'd just exclaimed of how hard but how incredibly rewarding it is to be a parent. After a prayer and a quick bedtime routine, all was peaceful again and I reflected about how life teaches us over and over again.

Motherhood is really such a joy, along with a set of reoccurring lessons to make us and our little ones grow in wisdom, to become more like our Savior, to remember what is truly important, finding an eternal perspective within this mortal journey, finding the strength to be more than what we think we are at times.

I've heard the idea that the "temple is God's University" - and I think the Home Life is also. Families teach us SO much!! Thank you to mine. Thank you for your patience, your continued love, support to me as a mother, learning and loving together!

Home at last!

2011-01-19T21:35:00.000-08:00

Indeed we're back from four weeks away from home. Visiting home with family in Colorado and Utah, but away from our Home. NYC is home. It was SO nice to return, to walk into our apartment and see our space, our things, our home. I breathed a sigh of happiness when I walked into the hallway of our tiny apartment. Home is where your heart is and as I'm so thankful for family and homes of the past...I'm so thankful to be here.

Yes, my blog is back from the dead! :) Only 600 pictures to go through. Here's a sneak peak to our adventures I've yet to post.

Lilly's dance class --
Benjamin's First Birthday --
A visit from John's family --
Trip to CO and UT to see family --
Playing in the snow --

2011 Wishes

2010-12-31T20:17:00.000-08:00

Back in the end of October, we went to Times Square to meet a friend and stopped into the visitors center for the busy tourist hub. It was pretty cool. They had a wall to post a piece of confetti with your wish for 2011 written on the tissue paper. These were released along with all the other festive confetti on Times Square on New Years Eve!!

It was fun to think of our New Years wishes. We wrote one for each of us, four little pieces of paper that will be in NYC even when we we're not in NYC Times Square...our wishes will be. And then we watched it on television. (Mom was sick as we said goodbye to 2010, so this was nice to celebrate despite the stomach flu we exchanged).

Here's to our Hopes & Dreams for a wonderful year 2011!!!

L's Chin Stitches

2010-12-14T21:15:00.000-08:00

Lillian got six stitches in her chin the night before we left for the holidays. Sadly, she stood up and slipped in the bathtub and hit her chin right on the porcelain edge. The cut was pretty deep so we immediately left Dad to finish packing for our four-week trip, while Mom and Lilly took a taxi to the Children's Medical Center. Lillian was so brave and super good; such a trooper as we waited in the lobby and thankfully a kind soul led us to get treatment earlier, she was numb and then got to watch an episode of Dora laying down with her chin high while they stitched her up. Mom was holding her hand but couldn't watch much of the stitching. They all praised her for being so strong, so still and the 25 minutes were happily over. Our sweet little daring girl got a sticker book and eagerly awaited her package of gum after the subway ride home. We were so blessed that it only took a few hours (since we've heard of 5-8 hour waiting at the hospital) and we were home by nine o'clock. And off to the airport to visit Colorado/Utah we go!

Just the Four of Us

2010-11-30T07:20:00.000-08:00

Here's remembering our smiles from Fall 2010...

Fitness Lessons Learned

2010-11-22T13:32:00.000-08:00

The 8-week Fitness Challenge has come to a close and I completed it 100%. IT WAS GREAT!!! This has been one of the best renewal experiences and I really needed it to renew my desire to be more healthy, to exercise, to work at exercise (thus being called a work-out) everyday, to pursue more balance in spiritual and physical strength by reading my scriptures and not eating after 8 pm, to re-commit myself EVERY week - because it takes convincing oneself over and over again to prioritize exercise and healthy habits.

Each week the objective was to avoid the bad and do the good. No desserts, no soda, no eating after 8 pm; Do exercise thirty minutes five times a week and read scriptures every day. There was also a weekly challenge added - food journal; seven hours of sleep; five veggies a day; drink 64 oz of water; doing 100 sit ups and 50 push ups a day; four fruits a day; five small meals; and doing a half-marathon throughout the week in addition to the exercise time. (There was one "free day" each week to not have to do these.)

I felt great, stronger, wiser, more balanced; especially last week with all the extra running/walking...I lost ten pounds and was thrilled with the sense of accomplishment I felt at the end.

At the beginning I laughed at the thought of not eating my sweets and treats. Now, such a contrast! As I finished running my 13 miles I gave myself another pep talk saying to my body that "this isn't over, I need to do this exercise and fitness stuff again and again" hopefully for the rest of my life. I was so excited, overwhelmed and totally thrilled that I met my goals for eight weeks. I think it might have saved my life because I really, really needed something like this to focus on and put my energy into (well, I mean besides my darling children). It has been great to learn and practice great habits each week, so here's a summary of some of the Lessons Learned:

In general:
- exercise makes me feel better, stand taller, feel stronger (my back/joints/body hurt less, lift kids with ease, get up off the floor or play with the kids with core/muscle strength, etc.)
- reading my scriptures make me spiritually stand taller and stronger (better able to handle life stresses, etc.)
- having only one free day a week to eat my delicious sweets taught me what I truly enjoy, since all I craved were in obvious comparison with each other, I realized I really want the powerberries over the candy bar (which I would've eaten both or triple times that before), now I savor the fewer amounts and better quality treats
- not eating sweets really shows me the impact of sugar on my free day... I can feel the buzz of the toxic amount of sweets and esp on Halloween I felt "poisoned" (but did I stop, only after a while, why do I think I need the chocolate?)

Week #1 -- Food Journal: I’m amazed at how much I put in my mouth, how often and the choices I automatically made (when in retrospect I might have been thirsty, bored or eating emotionally).

Week #2 -- Seven hours sleep: This is so hard as a mom! It took great effort and planning to do that.

Week #3 -- Five Veggies/day: Loved the variety and color it gave my meals and it felt good, yet it takes much planning for this too. Well worth it.

Week #4 -- Drink 64 oz water/day: Wow, what effort at first but what a huge difference it makes in making the body a “well-oiled machine” since it just functions so much better! It took filling up my water bottle three times but it often satisfied many cravings.

Week #5 -- 100 sit ups/50 push ups daily: Thankfully this could be done in a few sets, because at the start I was super weak yet I loved how strong my core and arms felt at the end. (Wow super buff, let me lift those bags for you!)

Week #6 -- Eat 4 Fruits daily: Love that fruit it is a multi-vitamin and multi-mineral, packed with all the great natural nutrients we need! It truly is nature's candy in all the good ways, so it satisfies the sweet craving in a healthy way and often is just what I needed.

Week #7 -- Eat 5 small meals a day: Planning when and what to eat is very wise. When I practice eating the variety more often (protein, veg, fruit, carb, dairy) it equals a balanced diet. I practiced stopping, since I'm eating small portions it creates self control to stop, also very good!

Week #8 -- Run/walk half marathon: This was a challenge to fit this in in-addition to the five workouts, but running sheds the pounds, lost 4 this week! If I pump my arms, keep my torso still and chin level...I can run better (maybe old news to you impressive runners but it was a good discovery to me). And I've learned I really like to jog outside in Riverside park, its my place and I love the music to motivate me to push through the struggle.

I want to maintain more of these habits in my normal life, so I will practice and remember how fruit, water and eating nutritiously often satisfied my cravings. I will reward myself with healthier things, spiritual things, and workout to make me feel better. I will remember the quote: "Nothing tastes as good as losing weight feels!" My clothes fit better! My late night and sweet cravings have subsided and now if I eat too much I'm more sensitive to my body's needs. My spiritual strength has increased as well and I'm thrilled to have the scriptures more present every day; I'm a bit more patient with my children and happier because I'm doing what I know I should.

I also loved how this boosted conversation centered around practicing fitness in our busy lives. I want to sign up for another group-supported effort like races to keep me going. My husband was a huge support and coach; I loved that! The group blog was a great way to share and discuss ideas.

I will choose more balanced and healthy food and activity options because I love how I feel when I’m focused on good habits and I deserve rewards it brings!

Childrens Museum

2010-11-16T20:24:00.000-08:00

The Manhattan Childrens Museum has a free night the first Friday of the month, so in November we tried it out. It was crowded but super fun! The kids loved the different rooms and pretend areas.

Lilly drove a bus, a taxi, Dr. Seuss' car, Dorthy's bike from the Wizard of Oz, sorted the mail, sat in Dora's room and many more adventures. Benjamin loved the infant toy room, made a new friend and crawling a bit and being carried amidst all the excitement. Mom and Dad loved seeing the kids so happy!

Doughnut Plant

2010-11-14T20:16:00.000-08:00

A Foss Family Fun Friday Outing!

A quick family adventure the day before John left for a weekend trip to Utah. We had to get Grandpa Foss a famous doughnut from the Doughnut Plant! And the ours were very good! Ben was content watching from the stroller and enjoyed the sites. John got a peanut butter and blackberry jam square one, Heidi got a rich chocolate one called "Blackout" (of course), and Lillian got a chocolate cake one. Yum.

Friday Family Fun (Sept-Oct)

2010-11-14T18:16:00.000-08:00

This semester, Friday is our "Saturday" family day. John has class all day on Saturday, so he usually has some available hours Friday afternoon where we can go out and play together. We call it our "Adventure" (or as Lilly says: our "venture"). Here is what we captured on Sept. 10th/Governor's Island and the Oct. 8th/Bronx Zoo.

GOVERNOR'S ISLAND
They have summer free bike rentals on Fridays, so we went early and got two bikes that could take all four of us around the island for an hour. It was so much fun! And so beautifully picturesque.

We saw the Statue of Liberty, biked through some art exhibits, saw an old fort and older homes that used to house an army and city leaders way back in the day. Benjamin enjoyed the ride and was so cool that he fell asleep. Lillian loved the fast pace and excitement, while peddling on her portion of the bike. It was September 10th, the weather was warm enough (minus the wind) and we stopped after the ferry ride to play on the swings (a favorite of L&B).

BRONX ZOO
We love zoos and animal parks. Central Park zoo is nice, small but close. So we've been trying to go together as a family all summer...so finally we took an afternoon on October 8th; esp before the butterfly exhibit ended. This zoo is huge! It took an hour and a half to travel one way (by subway and walking), so it was nice to walk around the long forested pathways, see the refreshing nature, camels, lions, baby lions, baby tigers, giraffes, and other animals along the way. We had to see the 4D movie that caught Lilly's eye.

Lilly loved the Dora movie; yet had to be convinced the dark, +water and air puffs were fun, and at the end wanted to do it again. We headed over to the Butterfly conservatory. Ah!! The lovely, delicate things were everywhere. It was magnificent to watch the darling butterflies eat fruit, flowers and flutter all around. Next year we'll go earlier to see peak season. (And now Mom wants to grow caterpillars into butterflies when she gets her dream greenhouse.)

Side note, Lillian saw some treats and asked... (mind you I'm doing this fitness challenge and it was not my "free day")
L: They have ice cream here...
H: Yeah, mommy can't eat ice cream right now.
L: But III can! :)

Yet amidst the fun, Benjamin fell asleep in his stroller, so thanks to our ticket pass, Lillian got to ride the carousel over and over again for free. It was pretty fun to see her ride the bugs, enjoy the music and parents took turns to accompany the giddy girl.

The outdoor adventures were fantastic times! We soaked in the time together as a family. We soaked in the good weather. We record the pictures to sustain us through the lonely and the rainy season.

I heard a wonderful thought today that related to our lives and experiences transforming us to become WHO we're destined to be. We all have a caterpillar season, in which we are "becoming" and in order to get to that state of being a butterfly we'll need to want to fly MORE than we want to be a caterpillar. So, may we all spread our wings people! In whatever we're supposed to learn, give up, sacrifice or do... open ourselves to letting go of the ground so we can FLY!

Our "backyard"

2010-11-14T17:23:00.000-08:00

One Sunday after church...we walked over to Central Park for a little sunshine and relaxing on the grass. The kids were blissful. The warm autumn weather and nature gave a bit of refuge from the busy times. This is our NYC backyard.