We're just home from school with Miss N. She sees the note book I just received for Miss F. It's 'Sound of Music,' the girls love the movie. Miss N climbs on the piano stool, opens the book and puts it to a page, turns on the piano (it's electric) and stars playing - and singing.
'Do a deer a female deer, ray a drop of golden sun...' so cute!
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Welcome back to blogging!
It's not like I have more time in my hands now. I'm happy i had the chance to take a shower this morning. Dinner is still a BIG question - will we eat anything decent or will the Mom restaurant serve one of those last minute creations that fills your stomach without much taste. Little chance N will take a long nap, she looks fired up and full of healthy energy - the very thing I lack!
P mentions today at lunch - why is he at home at lunch time is a mystery! - how fast the time goes by, that Miss N is already older than Miss A at the time we moved to USA. In eight years, we won't know what Miss N is like now. Since I don't remember anything about two days ago, let alone eight years, I know he's right.
"Sure," I say, "if you write the text, I can add it to our yearly photo album." (the album that I finished for 2009 recently. Right on schedule!) Of course he doesn't buy it, bummer! Miss N is having her light lunch - she eats enough at school -, she asks for this and that, hangs at the edge of the bar stool at the kitchen island, all the while I try to write this. If I don't make sense, it's because my multitasking capacities are overloaded!
Now i still have to start to write about what we do, the diary of Mom for the whole family. Voila...
Our new big thing is skiing. Sunday, Feb 10, we took the girls to ski at Wilmott. Miss F and Miss A began at the level 2, on the tiny hill. In 1/2 and hour, they were both on level 4, still tiny hill, but at the lift rope. Not long after, Miss F was taking the big lift with the instructor. Miss A needed to get more control on her skis before she went on top of the hill. I understand that ice skating helps with skiing, and the girls are taking skating lessons. All the while we had Miss N in her tube (a sleigh in the form of a car tire, the best sleigh ever!) Weather was gorgeous, we stayed outside the whole time while the lessons lasted.
It was winter break at school. P took a day off on Friday, Feb 15. This time we drove to Alpine. This time P skied with the kids and after practising on the small hill, they went pretty quickly up the mountain. There were more families from school, more kids at Miss A's age, that I felt it was OK. both girls and P did a great job. I was especially amazed with Miss A. She fell just a couple of time, did so well. There was just one time she flew off the piste and just missed the lift pole. I had a small heart attack. She stopped a few feets from the trees, got back on the piste and went on skiing. All the while, Miss N sat in her tube, made me pull her and the chucks of ice she collected. The lady at the little restaurant gave us three huge cookies for free, she thought the girls were so cute!
Now I need to focus on the single task of getting Miss N to take her nap. OMG, she says "hayir" to me. Focus... focus...
P mentions today at lunch - why is he at home at lunch time is a mystery! - how fast the time goes by, that Miss N is already older than Miss A at the time we moved to USA. In eight years, we won't know what Miss N is like now. Since I don't remember anything about two days ago, let alone eight years, I know he's right.
"Sure," I say, "if you write the text, I can add it to our yearly photo album." (the album that I finished for 2009 recently. Right on schedule!) Of course he doesn't buy it, bummer! Miss N is having her light lunch - she eats enough at school -, she asks for this and that, hangs at the edge of the bar stool at the kitchen island, all the while I try to write this. If I don't make sense, it's because my multitasking capacities are overloaded!
Now i still have to start to write about what we do, the diary of Mom for the whole family. Voila...
Our new big thing is skiing. Sunday, Feb 10, we took the girls to ski at Wilmott. Miss F and Miss A began at the level 2, on the tiny hill. In 1/2 and hour, they were both on level 4, still tiny hill, but at the lift rope. Not long after, Miss F was taking the big lift with the instructor. Miss A needed to get more control on her skis before she went on top of the hill. I understand that ice skating helps with skiing, and the girls are taking skating lessons. All the while we had Miss N in her tube (a sleigh in the form of a car tire, the best sleigh ever!) Weather was gorgeous, we stayed outside the whole time while the lessons lasted.
It was winter break at school. P took a day off on Friday, Feb 15. This time we drove to Alpine. This time P skied with the kids and after practising on the small hill, they went pretty quickly up the mountain. There were more families from school, more kids at Miss A's age, that I felt it was OK. both girls and P did a great job. I was especially amazed with Miss A. She fell just a couple of time, did so well. There was just one time she flew off the piste and just missed the lift pole. I had a small heart attack. She stopped a few feets from the trees, got back on the piste and went on skiing. All the while, Miss N sat in her tube, made me pull her and the chucks of ice she collected. The lady at the little restaurant gave us three huge cookies for free, she thought the girls were so cute!
Now I need to focus on the single task of getting Miss N to take her nap. OMG, she says "hayir" to me. Focus... focus...
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
The last weeks of school
May 31st, Oma Pake arrived. Such an excitement for the kids. Miss N went with P to pick them up from the airport. As usual, she was napping in the car when they arrived. According to P, she woke up, saw her grand parents, stared without any expression for a while and then the little lips started trembling, followed by a big cry. Now, she's a fan of Oma Pake.
The girls had their little piano recital. Both did very well. Miss A practiced the last weeks pretty often and her songs improved tremendously. I don't have to say anything about Miss F's piano, she's always practicing.
The school play, "the Gloaming" was last Friday. It was, again, so beautiful and amazing. Chapeau for all the hard work. Miss F was an element, one of the 'Sun's'. She did two cartwheels and a hand stand on the stage. she knows most of the songs by heart and I catch myself singing them with or without her.
We now officially have summer school. The last big event is Miss A's ballet recital next weekend. It's going to be busy.
Yesterday, we biked to school. We ran into Sara, Hetty and Fleury. Hetty and Miss F took off, followed by Sara. It took Miss A a long time to bike. She has her little four wheeler and the bike is just way too small for her. She made it though! On the way back, it was sticky hot and the road seemed more uphill. Poor little girl wanted to give up a million times but she went on, her cheeks red, her hair sticking to her wet with sweat forehead. Miss F got off her bike and pushed her many times, just so that she could climb yet another hill. She was so nice to her little sis. Love, love love these kids! We're now looking for a new bike for Miss A. I hope she'll get on two wheels soon.
We went to the open house at Ragdale. It was the same day as the piano recital. I had no idea how beautiful the Ragdale property is. Behind the house is a whole nature area, with studios scattered around. The kids did some art activities and we visited the renovated house. So gorgeous! Oma pake were very impressed as well. I ran into Hester Hershenhorn there. I didn't know she was teaching creative writing there before she moved to the city. I felt like 12 talking to her, meeting one of my teachers that I admire so much. She still remembered my 'Hawk' story and gave me some advise in two seconds. Since I talked to her, I've been more proactive about finding a critique group. Since my writing is not going so well and I'm still waiting to hear from this one critique group, I just started a new tennis drill. I'm supposed to be game ready in six lessons. We do it with Katy. It's a lot of fun. Every now and then I take some kind of lessons, but I still didn't get to playing regularly. I see it as an investment for the future!? Or am I just keeping myself busy so that I don't have to worry too much about my writing!
Last Sunday was Pastor Debby's last day at P's church. He was pretty emotional. I joined him at the church and said goodbye to the Pastor and her husband. I'm glad I got to know them.
We stopped with Miss F's swimming for the moment - it's enough, she's already so much better than me! Of course the real reason was schedule problems. Now Miss A's taking lessons. She's doing very well. I wish I could start Miss N with swimming lessons, too.
Now, after all the 'did this did that', let's see what Miss N is doing. She comes down often enough with a cute hairdo and a nice dress, all Miss F's creations. She's OK about it, keeps all the stuff in her hair. She loves shoes, like Miss F loved when she was little - oh well, she still loves them! She'll wear a pair from someone and walk around the house. It's hilarious. Last week, she decided she will climb to the top of the big slide in our backyard. The steps are thin round stocks and the distance between them is about 40cm. The climb is already life threatening, but on top of the landing, two sides are open. She runs from one side to another and escapes a big fall just by luck. She gave me an almost heart attack the other day. I couldn't reach her, she went running away from me, from one side to another, thinking it was a game. Pake had the same with her. She's still a water baby. She walks into the water whenever she can, another cause for heart attack. The only thing that stops her is cold, she won't swim in cold water. I cannot leave the shower door open, she'll just walk in - she's still taking standing showers - and she discovered -yuck!- the toilet pot. She's still calling everything Momma or Mommy, but sometimes some word comes out of her little mouth and we all think it sounded like something. It's unbelievable though how much she understands. I tell her to get a cookie, and she walks to the pantry. I ask her to bring me something and she does it. The amazing part is how she seems to understand all three languages, even English. What's going on in that little head? Wouldn't it be nice to know?
The girls had their little piano recital. Both did very well. Miss A practiced the last weeks pretty often and her songs improved tremendously. I don't have to say anything about Miss F's piano, she's always practicing.
The school play, "the Gloaming" was last Friday. It was, again, so beautiful and amazing. Chapeau for all the hard work. Miss F was an element, one of the 'Sun's'. She did two cartwheels and a hand stand on the stage. she knows most of the songs by heart and I catch myself singing them with or without her.
We now officially have summer school. The last big event is Miss A's ballet recital next weekend. It's going to be busy.
Yesterday, we biked to school. We ran into Sara, Hetty and Fleury. Hetty and Miss F took off, followed by Sara. It took Miss A a long time to bike. She has her little four wheeler and the bike is just way too small for her. She made it though! On the way back, it was sticky hot and the road seemed more uphill. Poor little girl wanted to give up a million times but she went on, her cheeks red, her hair sticking to her wet with sweat forehead. Miss F got off her bike and pushed her many times, just so that she could climb yet another hill. She was so nice to her little sis. Love, love love these kids! We're now looking for a new bike for Miss A. I hope she'll get on two wheels soon.
We went to the open house at Ragdale. It was the same day as the piano recital. I had no idea how beautiful the Ragdale property is. Behind the house is a whole nature area, with studios scattered around. The kids did some art activities and we visited the renovated house. So gorgeous! Oma pake were very impressed as well. I ran into Hester Hershenhorn there. I didn't know she was teaching creative writing there before she moved to the city. I felt like 12 talking to her, meeting one of my teachers that I admire so much. She still remembered my 'Hawk' story and gave me some advise in two seconds. Since I talked to her, I've been more proactive about finding a critique group. Since my writing is not going so well and I'm still waiting to hear from this one critique group, I just started a new tennis drill. I'm supposed to be game ready in six lessons. We do it with Katy. It's a lot of fun. Every now and then I take some kind of lessons, but I still didn't get to playing regularly. I see it as an investment for the future!? Or am I just keeping myself busy so that I don't have to worry too much about my writing!
Last Sunday was Pastor Debby's last day at P's church. He was pretty emotional. I joined him at the church and said goodbye to the Pastor and her husband. I'm glad I got to know them.
We stopped with Miss F's swimming for the moment - it's enough, she's already so much better than me! Of course the real reason was schedule problems. Now Miss A's taking lessons. She's doing very well. I wish I could start Miss N with swimming lessons, too.
Now, after all the 'did this did that', let's see what Miss N is doing. She comes down often enough with a cute hairdo and a nice dress, all Miss F's creations. She's OK about it, keeps all the stuff in her hair. She loves shoes, like Miss F loved when she was little - oh well, she still loves them! She'll wear a pair from someone and walk around the house. It's hilarious. Last week, she decided she will climb to the top of the big slide in our backyard. The steps are thin round stocks and the distance between them is about 40cm. The climb is already life threatening, but on top of the landing, two sides are open. She runs from one side to another and escapes a big fall just by luck. She gave me an almost heart attack the other day. I couldn't reach her, she went running away from me, from one side to another, thinking it was a game. Pake had the same with her. She's still a water baby. She walks into the water whenever she can, another cause for heart attack. The only thing that stops her is cold, she won't swim in cold water. I cannot leave the shower door open, she'll just walk in - she's still taking standing showers - and she discovered -yuck!- the toilet pot. She's still calling everything Momma or Mommy, but sometimes some word comes out of her little mouth and we all think it sounded like something. It's unbelievable though how much she understands. I tell her to get a cookie, and she walks to the pantry. I ask her to bring me something and she does it. The amazing part is how she seems to understand all three languages, even English. What's going on in that little head? Wouldn't it be nice to know?
Monday, March 12, 2012
Miss N's first bike ride
Yesterday was a first for Miss N. the weather was very nice, around 20C with a cool wind. we were pretty slow in the morning, still tired from Saturday. In the afternoon, we all needed an activity so we decided to bike to Elewa farm. I first had to install the baby seat on the bike and we went to buy a baby helmet - which still is pretty large! We all got on our bikes and got on the path. Miss N seemed very happy. It took us a while to get to Elewa, Miss A is biking with her side wheels still. On the way to Elewa, we saw Richard walking the path. I was very happy to see him. I was lately a little worried that I didn't hear anything from him, and with his cancer and everything... You never know. so we chat a short while. Then we ran into Shweta and family. Then we ran into - wow, come on!! - Kimberly from Miss A's ballet at the rec center. So no wonder why it took us so long.
The kids played nicely at the playground. Miss N loves the swings. However, the wind got stronger and cooler, so after looking at the animals by the farm, we left for home. Miss A, on her little bike got so tired, I got worried that she will not bike until home. Miss F fell once. Miss N got tired, too, she fell asleep on the bike. Hey, we saw that before, Miss F! Finally when we got home, Miss A was sweating and red on her face. I was happy that we all made it home! It's great that he weather is getting nice and we can bike again!
The kids played nicely at the playground. Miss N loves the swings. However, the wind got stronger and cooler, so after looking at the animals by the farm, we left for home. Miss A, on her little bike got so tired, I got worried that she will not bike until home. Miss F fell once. Miss N got tired, too, she fell asleep on the bike. Hey, we saw that before, Miss F! Finally when we got home, Miss A was sweating and red on her face. I was happy that we all made it home! It's great that he weather is getting nice and we can bike again!
Maple sugaring and Naper Settlement
I can't believe it's already March and this is my first post of the year. Little Miss N. takes all my time and whatever minutes I have left are used by the other two. Miss F goes to swimming club 3 evenings. Miss A still has her ballet and she'll do an art class. They take together ice skating.
I keep myself busy, too. I do a barre class every Tuesday and I swim once or twice at LifeTime. Miss N is doing well at the childcare.
Last weekend, we were with Carmina and her two girls to Naperville. I heard from Shweta over Maple sugaring fest. Naper Settlement is some sort of open air museum. There are old log houses and there are old shops. They show the way of like at the time of the old settlements. We saw a demonstration of the blacksmith and the printer shop. They were very interesting both for us and the girls. Then we saw the Maple sugaring, when they collect the sap of the maple tree. All four girls played tag in the fields. They play nice and then they have a fight then they play nice again. Little Miss N wants the follow the big girls but it's too hard yet!
It was already 2.30 when we finally left the Naper Settlement and found a restaurant for lunch/dinner. Naperville downtown is very cute, pretty European. People actually walk on the streets. I can't remember the name of the restaurant, but it was good food and they were very friendly, especially if you think that we sat there for 2,5 hours!
When we brought Carmina and daughters home, I realized we were close to Half Priced Books. I went there with my girls and gosh, we couldn't get out. When we left with 13 books and came home, it was 7pm. Exhausted, that's what we were. Miss N had a little fewer, probably from tiredness. Luckily, everybody was full from the late lunch and we went to bed early.
I keep myself busy, too. I do a barre class every Tuesday and I swim once or twice at LifeTime. Miss N is doing well at the childcare.
Last weekend, we were with Carmina and her two girls to Naperville. I heard from Shweta over Maple sugaring fest. Naper Settlement is some sort of open air museum. There are old log houses and there are old shops. They show the way of like at the time of the old settlements. We saw a demonstration of the blacksmith and the printer shop. They were very interesting both for us and the girls. Then we saw the Maple sugaring, when they collect the sap of the maple tree. All four girls played tag in the fields. They play nice and then they have a fight then they play nice again. Little Miss N wants the follow the big girls but it's too hard yet!
It was already 2.30 when we finally left the Naper Settlement and found a restaurant for lunch/dinner. Naperville downtown is very cute, pretty European. People actually walk on the streets. I can't remember the name of the restaurant, but it was good food and they were very friendly, especially if you think that we sat there for 2,5 hours!
When we brought Carmina and daughters home, I realized we were close to Half Priced Books. I went there with my girls and gosh, we couldn't get out. When we left with 13 books and came home, it was 7pm. Exhausted, that's what we were. Miss N had a little fewer, probably from tiredness. Luckily, everybody was full from the late lunch and we went to bed early.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Virginian Opossum
Such a beautiful day today with the kids. They didn't have school, institute day. The sun is shining and we spent hours outside. Miss A was invited to Teresa-Claire's for a playdate. While she was gone, Miss F, Miss N and I went for a walk in the nature, just behind the house. Then Miss F wanted to rake the leaves - all deep colors of red and yellow, so pretty! - and then climbed a tree so high, I couldn't believe. Miss N took a long nap outside, such a nice weather it was. Then in was time to pick up Miss A, and a little visit to Egg Harbor with Chris and Lauren. - Little argument with Miss F because of her table manners, but we made it up!
Back at home, the kids wanted to climb more trees and I made great pictures of them on the pile of leaves (they all need a bath tonight!). While I was busy with taking the pictures, I saw this weird looking animal crossing the back yard. I followed and tried to make pictures. It was pretty far to get a good shot, but I managed one from the side. Miss F checked it in the Audubon book and it's a Virginia Opossum.
I was sure I would be freeked out when I read about this animal. Since we moved here, I realize more and more how dangerous the nature can be. The sweet looking raccoons can attack you or you can get a parasite that can be pretty dangerous. I wrote about that the first year we were here. Then the coyote's in the backyard, the ticks and the lime disease which come with the beautiful deer, weird worms I found when I was cleaning the sand box... Yuck...
that's the mood I'm in when I find the Virginia Opossum article in wikipedia. Let's see how much panic it will bring. The Opossum in an opportunist and you can find the by your garbage bin - we don;t have one outside - (1 point for us). When you scare the Opossum, he goes in a coma for several hours. He looks dead and this way he may save his life - now that's an interesting characteristic - (1 point for the Opossum). He is NOT related to a RAT! (I give 2 points to Opossum for that!) and according to Wikipedia: "They rarely transmit diseases to humans, and are surprisingly resistant to rabies, mainly because they have lower body temperatures than most placental mammals. In addition, opossums limit the spread of Lyme disease, as they successfully kill off most disease carrying ticks that feed on them." 10 points to Opossum and a hug from me - could do it if he wouldn't bite me or go into a coma, maybe. I love that ugly animal!
Now, the girls are in the basement, Miss N is with me talking and crawling. The pumpkin seeds - oh yes, we also carved pumpkins - are in the oven. Have no dinner and I am not proud of it, but having a nice day with the kids. What can I ask for more!
Back at home, the kids wanted to climb more trees and I made great pictures of them on the pile of leaves (they all need a bath tonight!). While I was busy with taking the pictures, I saw this weird looking animal crossing the back yard. I followed and tried to make pictures. It was pretty far to get a good shot, but I managed one from the side. Miss F checked it in the Audubon book and it's a Virginia Opossum.
I was sure I would be freeked out when I read about this animal. Since we moved here, I realize more and more how dangerous the nature can be. The sweet looking raccoons can attack you or you can get a parasite that can be pretty dangerous. I wrote about that the first year we were here. Then the coyote's in the backyard, the ticks and the lime disease which come with the beautiful deer, weird worms I found when I was cleaning the sand box... Yuck...
that's the mood I'm in when I find the Virginia Opossum article in wikipedia. Let's see how much panic it will bring. The Opossum in an opportunist and you can find the by your garbage bin - we don;t have one outside - (1 point for us). When you scare the Opossum, he goes in a coma for several hours. He looks dead and this way he may save his life - now that's an interesting characteristic - (1 point for the Opossum). He is NOT related to a RAT! (I give 2 points to Opossum for that!) and according to Wikipedia: "They rarely transmit diseases to humans, and are surprisingly resistant to rabies, mainly because they have lower body temperatures than most placental mammals. In addition, opossums limit the spread of Lyme disease, as they successfully kill off most disease carrying ticks that feed on them." 10 points to Opossum and a hug from me - could do it if he wouldn't bite me or go into a coma, maybe. I love that ugly animal!
Now, the girls are in the basement, Miss N is with me talking and crawling. The pumpkin seeds - oh yes, we also carved pumpkins - are in the oven. Have no dinner and I am not proud of it, but having a nice day with the kids. What can I ask for more!
Monday, October 24, 2011
A husband's way of helping
When P says "I'll take the kids to school tomorrow", I try to calm down this little expectation. Sleeping in one morning, huh? After a night of I don't know how many feedings, staying in the bed till 8am is a dream. But husbands are funny creatures who have a diffrent view on helping out with the kids.
One morning like that, the alarm goes at 6.45am. Not mine - yet... Whoever invented the snooze button, well I hope he/she has to listen to his/her significant other's alarm twenty times every morning. Twenty might seem a lot, but it's the price for inventing such a nuissance!
Then around 7.00 am, my alarm starts to buzz. To be honest, I do snooze it a couple of times as well. It's just learning by example, not my character. All that buzzing finally manages to wake up one of the kids - couple rooms further, which surprisingly causes P to get up, go to the restroom, close the door and start to answer his email on his Blackberry - along with the usual business. I will never get to know why calling children triggers this reaction. Never!
While the sounds in the other bedrooms get louder, I hang on to my dream of a free morning and ignore all the "Mooooooommyyyyy"s. A slight irritation starts building up. The longwaited flush of the toilet is unfortunately followed by the sound of the shower. Meanwhile, "Mooooooommyyyy"s are unbearable, the prospect of having the kids at the breakfast table before 7.40am is low and there is no way I can go back to sleep, I get up.
There's work to be done in the morning, mothers know. Miss A is having trouble picking her clothes and she is not willing to try it without help. Miss F is sitting on her usual spot in front of the closet; the clothes will come to her?! I take things into my hand and 20 minutes later, the girls are downstairs, including Miss N - in clothes, clean dipered and nursed. The breakfast (cereal and a glass of worm Nesquik, I won't pretend I prepare pancakes during the week) is ready. While we are eating, P comes downstairs, with his perfect hairdoe, smelling aftershave. He eats with us, and helps me to tell the girls to prepare their lunch - it's almost time to leave for school.
Everybody is ready, the lunch baskets are by the garage door, Miss N sits in her carseat, my blood is boiling from all the "Hurry up"s and "we are late"s; P says, "don't worry, I will bring the girls to the school, you can have an easy morning."
"???!"
Oh I love my husband. He is a nice person, he is a good person. He is a good father. He works hard; and he is the son I never had, ha ha!
At 2.30pm pick up at school, Munisha says, "I saw P this morning, did you get to sleep in?" I tell her the story and I love the expression on her face. She understands.
One morning like that, the alarm goes at 6.45am. Not mine - yet... Whoever invented the snooze button, well I hope he/she has to listen to his/her significant other's alarm twenty times every morning. Twenty might seem a lot, but it's the price for inventing such a nuissance!
Then around 7.00 am, my alarm starts to buzz. To be honest, I do snooze it a couple of times as well. It's just learning by example, not my character. All that buzzing finally manages to wake up one of the kids - couple rooms further, which surprisingly causes P to get up, go to the restroom, close the door and start to answer his email on his Blackberry - along with the usual business. I will never get to know why calling children triggers this reaction. Never!
While the sounds in the other bedrooms get louder, I hang on to my dream of a free morning and ignore all the "Mooooooommyyyyy"s. A slight irritation starts building up. The longwaited flush of the toilet is unfortunately followed by the sound of the shower. Meanwhile, "Mooooooommyyyy"s are unbearable, the prospect of having the kids at the breakfast table before 7.40am is low and there is no way I can go back to sleep, I get up.
There's work to be done in the morning, mothers know. Miss A is having trouble picking her clothes and she is not willing to try it without help. Miss F is sitting on her usual spot in front of the closet; the clothes will come to her?! I take things into my hand and 20 minutes later, the girls are downstairs, including Miss N - in clothes, clean dipered and nursed. The breakfast (cereal and a glass of worm Nesquik, I won't pretend I prepare pancakes during the week) is ready. While we are eating, P comes downstairs, with his perfect hairdoe, smelling aftershave. He eats with us, and helps me to tell the girls to prepare their lunch - it's almost time to leave for school.
Everybody is ready, the lunch baskets are by the garage door, Miss N sits in her carseat, my blood is boiling from all the "Hurry up"s and "we are late"s; P says, "don't worry, I will bring the girls to the school, you can have an easy morning."
"???!"
Oh I love my husband. He is a nice person, he is a good person. He is a good father. He works hard; and he is the son I never had, ha ha!
At 2.30pm pick up at school, Munisha says, "I saw P this morning, did you get to sleep in?" I tell her the story and I love the expression on her face. She understands.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Dinner with friends
We had a lovely dinner yesterday with Alison and Erik at their house, with Blai and Carmina. All very entertaining people, enjoyable company. It was too cute when Dagny showed her room to us, the place where Miss F knows too well!
Today, Leo and Carla came to visit us with Alex. First get together after more than a year. Always nice to see old friends! Carla is running the Chicago Marathon. I hope she'll survive it, she has problems with her feet and leg. Crazy lady, still doing it. Good luck Carla!
Dagny had her bday party today, so Miss F went to the farm. It was a truly beautiful day for that!
Tonight was the school fundraising dinner at John and Dianna's. Although none of us felt like going, the evening turned out to be very pleasant. It was a big dinner and the wine was amazing - not a coincidence if you think about the host - and everyone was quite relaxed and social. We had a sitter problem and we had Alia last moment. Diana was very nice to let us bring Miss N and let her sitter take care of her. She slept like a baby! upstairs while we were dining. The dinner lasted longer than we thought, when I arrived home Fauzia was sitting with Alia in our living room. Poor Alia looked so tired! P stayed longer and drove back with Tricia.
Gosh, got to go to sleep, it's too late!
Today, Leo and Carla came to visit us with Alex. First get together after more than a year. Always nice to see old friends! Carla is running the Chicago Marathon. I hope she'll survive it, she has problems with her feet and leg. Crazy lady, still doing it. Good luck Carla!
Dagny had her bday party today, so Miss F went to the farm. It was a truly beautiful day for that!
Tonight was the school fundraising dinner at John and Dianna's. Although none of us felt like going, the evening turned out to be very pleasant. It was a big dinner and the wine was amazing - not a coincidence if you think about the host - and everyone was quite relaxed and social. We had a sitter problem and we had Alia last moment. Diana was very nice to let us bring Miss N and let her sitter take care of her. She slept like a baby! upstairs while we were dining. The dinner lasted longer than we thought, when I arrived home Fauzia was sitting with Alia in our living room. Poor Alia looked so tired! P stayed longer and drove back with Tricia.
Gosh, got to go to sleep, it's too late!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Summer in brief
Just back from a lunch with Fauzia, I will use my last hour before I have to pick up Miss A to write. There are several things I should mention here. so much is happening and so little time to write, I'm chronically behind this journal.
I have to go back to summer first.
In June, we had Miss F's school play - was beautiful - and Miss A's ballet recital. Recital was two days in a row. P came to the Friday recital and missed Saturday, he was leaving for Europe. Miss A did a cute job. She did show how lefty she is, while all the girls were jumping right, she was jumping left. Well, we have it on DVD, so no more details. Miss A's group got the most applause for sure!!
After p left, I packed our stuff to leave for Turkey. But before we left, two things happened. Miss A lost her first tooth and Miss N discovered her hands. Both are moments to reflect on. Gosh they grow fast!
It's not the first time I left for Europe without my hubby, but it was the first time with three kids. Adding my usual stress about flying, I was beyond tiredness and stress when the limo came to pick us up - by the way, P ordered the limo for 2 hours before the plane left mixing up who's taking the plane, so I changed it to 3 hours before. When I'm over tired, I usually become very calm. So that was how the trip went. The kids did great in the plane and at the 7 hours lay over in Munic(love the business lounge!) For the first time, my parents couldn't come together to pick us up, we wouldn't have fitted in the car.
We spent the first two nights in Izmir, I wanted to meet my friends. I had a lovely dinner with Asli, Deniz A. and Hesna. On Friday, we left for Oren in two cars, we had Yanki with us. The first thing my father did - and it was great - was to take the kids to the shop and buy them new bikes. And those bikes were ridden!
I'll go over the vacation very quick, I have many pictures anyway. First 10 days, we had Yanki. Burak and the rest of his family joined us for a couple of them. Serap Abla was in Oren with the little daughter of Sedar Abi. The little girl and Miss F, almost same age, became friends. Then P's parents and Gerald, Edna, Sheila and Aaron arrived. P's parents had their little house 2 minutes from my parents' and the cousins were at Orient club. we travelled to Bergamom and Assos all together,, had dinner at the fish restaurant, at my parents and at Orient. Good days! Then everybody started leaving one by one. P was the last one and we realized I was leaving with the kids in two days and by the time I was in US, P was not back from Europe yet. So we decided to stay couple more days. Poor P had to call for hours to United to finally arrange tickets for us for a week later. By the time I was packed and unpacked twice.
The extra vacation was more than welcome. Miss A and Miss F had the chance to play more with their new friends. They were kids or grandchildren of neighbors, some speaking only German. The kids communicated in Turkish or English. They were all older then the girls which was maybe even better. Miss A and Miss F were like dolls. Miss A was always carried on someone's back playing hide and seek.
We also had the chance to stop by Foca, at my aunt's. Uncle Murat's daughter Lilya was there with a friend of hers. The last night before going to Izmir, Burak and I went out to Foca. I hardly ever spend alone time with my brother, so it was very special. We walked around the whole village and talked. After picking up Lilya and her friend who were also spending their last night in Foca, we went back to my aunt's. we, four kids, decided to have some ice cream before going to bed, which was too noisy for my dad. Just like little kids, we were shooed to our rooms - giggling!-
Going back to US after five weeks was nice and sad. It was probably the best vacation I had in Turkey with the kids. we landed O'hare almost at the same time as P who was coming back from Texas. We drove home together.
This vacation was special for me for another reason. I had to chance to talk to Serap Abla and heard how she was alone and bored in Oren when she was growing up. It was the proof that I was not weird, doing something wrong or paying the debt of anything. One day we visited her mother, Suna Teyze. The girls went to play right away and my mother, Serap Abla, Suna Teyze and I were talking. Suna Teyze said from out of blue how she thought I was such a lonely child with no kids around to play and so good at entertaining my self. This was a breakthrough for me, maybe a little late in life, but I feel like I'm freed of some long lasting issues this summer. I just feel better. Plus the girls found friends in Oren -because unlike when I was growing up, there are kids in Oren - I'm just happy and excited to go back next year.
I have to go back to summer first.
In June, we had Miss F's school play - was beautiful - and Miss A's ballet recital. Recital was two days in a row. P came to the Friday recital and missed Saturday, he was leaving for Europe. Miss A did a cute job. She did show how lefty she is, while all the girls were jumping right, she was jumping left. Well, we have it on DVD, so no more details. Miss A's group got the most applause for sure!!
After p left, I packed our stuff to leave for Turkey. But before we left, two things happened. Miss A lost her first tooth and Miss N discovered her hands. Both are moments to reflect on. Gosh they grow fast!
It's not the first time I left for Europe without my hubby, but it was the first time with three kids. Adding my usual stress about flying, I was beyond tiredness and stress when the limo came to pick us up - by the way, P ordered the limo for 2 hours before the plane left mixing up who's taking the plane, so I changed it to 3 hours before. When I'm over tired, I usually become very calm. So that was how the trip went. The kids did great in the plane and at the 7 hours lay over in Munic(love the business lounge!) For the first time, my parents couldn't come together to pick us up, we wouldn't have fitted in the car.
We spent the first two nights in Izmir, I wanted to meet my friends. I had a lovely dinner with Asli, Deniz A. and Hesna. On Friday, we left for Oren in two cars, we had Yanki with us. The first thing my father did - and it was great - was to take the kids to the shop and buy them new bikes. And those bikes were ridden!
I'll go over the vacation very quick, I have many pictures anyway. First 10 days, we had Yanki. Burak and the rest of his family joined us for a couple of them. Serap Abla was in Oren with the little daughter of Sedar Abi. The little girl and Miss F, almost same age, became friends. Then P's parents and Gerald, Edna, Sheila and Aaron arrived. P's parents had their little house 2 minutes from my parents' and the cousins were at Orient club. we travelled to Bergamom and Assos all together,, had dinner at the fish restaurant, at my parents and at Orient. Good days! Then everybody started leaving one by one. P was the last one and we realized I was leaving with the kids in two days and by the time I was in US, P was not back from Europe yet. So we decided to stay couple more days. Poor P had to call for hours to United to finally arrange tickets for us for a week later. By the time I was packed and unpacked twice.
The extra vacation was more than welcome. Miss A and Miss F had the chance to play more with their new friends. They were kids or grandchildren of neighbors, some speaking only German. The kids communicated in Turkish or English. They were all older then the girls which was maybe even better. Miss A and Miss F were like dolls. Miss A was always carried on someone's back playing hide and seek.
We also had the chance to stop by Foca, at my aunt's. Uncle Murat's daughter Lilya was there with a friend of hers. The last night before going to Izmir, Burak and I went out to Foca. I hardly ever spend alone time with my brother, so it was very special. We walked around the whole village and talked. After picking up Lilya and her friend who were also spending their last night in Foca, we went back to my aunt's. we, four kids, decided to have some ice cream before going to bed, which was too noisy for my dad. Just like little kids, we were shooed to our rooms - giggling!-
Going back to US after five weeks was nice and sad. It was probably the best vacation I had in Turkey with the kids. we landed O'hare almost at the same time as P who was coming back from Texas. We drove home together.
This vacation was special for me for another reason. I had to chance to talk to Serap Abla and heard how she was alone and bored in Oren when she was growing up. It was the proof that I was not weird, doing something wrong or paying the debt of anything. One day we visited her mother, Suna Teyze. The girls went to play right away and my mother, Serap Abla, Suna Teyze and I were talking. Suna Teyze said from out of blue how she thought I was such a lonely child with no kids around to play and so good at entertaining my self. This was a breakthrough for me, maybe a little late in life, but I feel like I'm freed of some long lasting issues this summer. I just feel better. Plus the girls found friends in Oren -because unlike when I was growing up, there are kids in Oren - I'm just happy and excited to go back next year.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Announcing a first and the end of the toothfairy innocence
Of course I could - and should be - announcing the first laugh, the first roll or the first steps. I will announce the first poop. Miss N has been having rice cereal and after that green beans for almost three weeks now. The green beans are more of a favorite, she's been eating eagerly for the last 3-4 days. Today, she was uncomfortable, she didn't nap more than an hour, too short for her age. after her green beans dinner, she was playing on the floor. She started crying and then it came, her first real, smelly poop. You might be wondering why I ever take time to write this. Well, let me tell you one thing, it was a big deal for her. She did NOT like it.
OK, I'll cut the crap, and tell more about the summer. Less stink than the poop story! In June, Miss A lost her first baby tooth. She was sooo proud of it. according to the dentist, she has five loose teeth, so it was no surprise that she lost another one just last week. loosing tooth means a visit from the tooth fairy. Miss F was always so excited about it and so happy to find a dollar in a zip lock bag under her pillow. I knew Miss F knows by now that mama papa are putting the money, not the tooth fairy. Her friend Hannah kind of spoiled it for her last spring. But we still had Miss A to surprise.
The evening of the second tooth, I heard Miss A crying in her bed. She said she was scared, and she is hardly ever. A guiltily smiling Miss F came to the room and said,
'She's scared of the tooth fairy, she thinks tooth fairy might be a witch.'
Took me seconds to find out that Miss F actually told her this. I gave Miss F a dirty look. What was she thinking! While I was trying to find a way to soothe Miss A and make sure she is not scared anymore but still believes in tooth fairy, Miss F continued,
'But Miss A, don't worry, there's no tooth fairy, it's just mama papa.'
Well, thank you! I denied, what could I do?!
I was leaving her, hoping that she believed me. How hard it is to fool those little ones! She called behind me with her sweet little voice,
'Mamaaaa, when you put the money under my pillow, can you give me six dollars?'
I thnik I'll be blogging more often once the school starts. There are so many things to tell! bye for now.
OK, I'll cut the crap, and tell more about the summer. Less stink than the poop story! In June, Miss A lost her first baby tooth. She was sooo proud of it. according to the dentist, she has five loose teeth, so it was no surprise that she lost another one just last week. loosing tooth means a visit from the tooth fairy. Miss F was always so excited about it and so happy to find a dollar in a zip lock bag under her pillow. I knew Miss F knows by now that mama papa are putting the money, not the tooth fairy. Her friend Hannah kind of spoiled it for her last spring. But we still had Miss A to surprise.
The evening of the second tooth, I heard Miss A crying in her bed. She said she was scared, and she is hardly ever. A guiltily smiling Miss F came to the room and said,
'She's scared of the tooth fairy, she thinks tooth fairy might be a witch.'
Took me seconds to find out that Miss F actually told her this. I gave Miss F a dirty look. What was she thinking! While I was trying to find a way to soothe Miss A and make sure she is not scared anymore but still believes in tooth fairy, Miss F continued,
'But Miss A, don't worry, there's no tooth fairy, it's just mama papa.'
Well, thank you! I denied, what could I do?!
I was leaving her, hoping that she believed me. How hard it is to fool those little ones! She called behind me with her sweet little voice,
'Mamaaaa, when you put the money under my pillow, can you give me six dollars?'
I thnik I'll be blogging more often once the school starts. There are so many things to tell! bye for now.
Friday, May 20, 2011
9 weeks, 4,5 kilos
It's already 9 weeks ago that Miss N is born. I know I should have been writing every single day about her little moves and changes, the reaction of her sisters and more. But it's busy with a baby, family, house, husband, myself... Although I did have time to go out to a movie one evening (Jane Eyre, was OK), it's hard to steal time from anything just to turn on the computer and write.
Miss N is taking most of my time, but she is the easiest baby we had. She just does her baby things. I went out to lunch with her couple of times, she just slept through the whole meal. She sits in the car seat for hours so tat I can go get the groceries and to the post office, pick up kids, bring them to their activities etc, etc....Since week 6 she is smiling more and more. This week, i can see more alertness, more reaction to our actions. She is falling in love with her sisters. Already, they are interesting for Miss N. Although she is the best sleeper we have, I still couldn't figure out a good schedule. Two weeks ago, she was sleeping at 9.30-10.00, waking up in the middle of the night, around 3.30, and then not sleeping for 1,5 hours. I thought it was a pattern. This week though, she wakes up at 1.00am and 4.00 something.
Anyway, let's leave the sleeping patterns. What did we do lately. P went to his first trip when Miss N was 3 weeks. Did I have help! I had dinner brought every day to our house. Miss F and Miss A grew overnight. They had an understanding, I needed help, I didn't manage everything as before. One morning I went downstairs and they had breakfast ready, even a bowl of cereal for me.
During the week P was gone, Miss F said once to Miss A, as a matter of fact way - not sad, not mad, maybe a bit teasing, "She(meaning me) loves her (meaning Miss N) more then us, you know." She said it when I could hear her and I know she didn't mean the exact words. She meant to explain to Miss A that I just needed to spend more time with the baby. How do I know that, I can't explain. If she had mean it, I would be hurt, but I understood that she understood our situation. My biggest help, my little mothers.
Miss N was 4 weeks when Miss A turned 5. So proud was she, with her huge basket. She made her lunch all by herself and didn't express any reproach or sadness for staying at school until 2.30 instead of 11.30. She did ask me to pick her up as the first, but she always does that, so what's new?! The same evening, we had a sitter and went to Brooke's 40th bday dinner. It was at a restaurant in Lake Forest. We arrived 40 minutes late because Miss N was crying and I just couldn't leave. I literally arrived trembling and the first thing I did was to order a gin and tonic, my only drink the whole night.
Our first outing as family was to the Museum of Science and Industry, which went quite fine with three kids.
when Miss N was 6 weeks, Siska came for a week. It was fun, busy but fun. We went shopping, out for lunch, to kids' activities - ballet and gymnastics. We spent Sunday at the Museum of Science and Industry, Siska and I saw the Body World exhibition. It was very interesting to see all the mummified bodies and body parts. Miss N didn't like it, though.I had to nurse her twice in three hours and walk around holding her. Nevertheless, the exhibition was great. The same evening, we had dinner downtown - with a baby!
We had quite some guests at home. Blai and Carmina, Anne and Jeff. After Siska left Melinda and Toni and their families came over for dinner. Then last weekend, we had the big party, Miss A's Indian bday party. I spent days and days driving around to buy the necessities, cutting Indian tunics and head pieces, drawing indian figures on the big canvas that we turned into a teepee. I shouldn't forget Siska's help with the goodie bags, that was a lot of work, too. We had 19 kids + our two and couple little ones. I had help from 2 middle school kids, otherwise I wouldn't have survived it. We had to do the head pieces and tunics in the basement, the weather was cold and cloudy. The kids painted the canvas on the garage floor. During all this, poor Miss N was held by everyone, except me. At the end, P set up the teepee in the backyard. It looked - and still looks - great! after the party, 5 families stayed for dinner. The kids played in the teepee for the whole evening. It was, I think a successful party, it was surely fun.
Finally, the party is over, there are no visitors, no big dinner plans... I finally had two days that I could enjoy being home with Miss N. She is making the baby noises and gets mad at me when I put her on her belly. She can spend quite some time alone, she looks around, traps her legs and waves her arms. When I go back to her, she smiles. I read quite some Jane Eyre, which I read for my coming book club. She is 4,5 kilos already, almost double the birth weight. She grows so fast, and the other two grow so fast... I just want to slow the time and watch them growing every inch, every knowledge, wisdom and maturity level. Don't want to miss a thing!
Miss N is taking most of my time, but she is the easiest baby we had. She just does her baby things. I went out to lunch with her couple of times, she just slept through the whole meal. She sits in the car seat for hours so tat I can go get the groceries and to the post office, pick up kids, bring them to their activities etc, etc....Since week 6 she is smiling more and more. This week, i can see more alertness, more reaction to our actions. She is falling in love with her sisters. Already, they are interesting for Miss N. Although she is the best sleeper we have, I still couldn't figure out a good schedule. Two weeks ago, she was sleeping at 9.30-10.00, waking up in the middle of the night, around 3.30, and then not sleeping for 1,5 hours. I thought it was a pattern. This week though, she wakes up at 1.00am and 4.00 something.
Anyway, let's leave the sleeping patterns. What did we do lately. P went to his first trip when Miss N was 3 weeks. Did I have help! I had dinner brought every day to our house. Miss F and Miss A grew overnight. They had an understanding, I needed help, I didn't manage everything as before. One morning I went downstairs and they had breakfast ready, even a bowl of cereal for me.
During the week P was gone, Miss F said once to Miss A, as a matter of fact way - not sad, not mad, maybe a bit teasing, "She(meaning me) loves her (meaning Miss N) more then us, you know." She said it when I could hear her and I know she didn't mean the exact words. She meant to explain to Miss A that I just needed to spend more time with the baby. How do I know that, I can't explain. If she had mean it, I would be hurt, but I understood that she understood our situation. My biggest help, my little mothers.
Miss N was 4 weeks when Miss A turned 5. So proud was she, with her huge basket. She made her lunch all by herself and didn't express any reproach or sadness for staying at school until 2.30 instead of 11.30. She did ask me to pick her up as the first, but she always does that, so what's new?! The same evening, we had a sitter and went to Brooke's 40th bday dinner. It was at a restaurant in Lake Forest. We arrived 40 minutes late because Miss N was crying and I just couldn't leave. I literally arrived trembling and the first thing I did was to order a gin and tonic, my only drink the whole night.
Our first outing as family was to the Museum of Science and Industry, which went quite fine with three kids.
when Miss N was 6 weeks, Siska came for a week. It was fun, busy but fun. We went shopping, out for lunch, to kids' activities - ballet and gymnastics. We spent Sunday at the Museum of Science and Industry, Siska and I saw the Body World exhibition. It was very interesting to see all the mummified bodies and body parts. Miss N didn't like it, though.I had to nurse her twice in three hours and walk around holding her. Nevertheless, the exhibition was great. The same evening, we had dinner downtown - with a baby!
We had quite some guests at home. Blai and Carmina, Anne and Jeff. After Siska left Melinda and Toni and their families came over for dinner. Then last weekend, we had the big party, Miss A's Indian bday party. I spent days and days driving around to buy the necessities, cutting Indian tunics and head pieces, drawing indian figures on the big canvas that we turned into a teepee. I shouldn't forget Siska's help with the goodie bags, that was a lot of work, too. We had 19 kids + our two and couple little ones. I had help from 2 middle school kids, otherwise I wouldn't have survived it. We had to do the head pieces and tunics in the basement, the weather was cold and cloudy. The kids painted the canvas on the garage floor. During all this, poor Miss N was held by everyone, except me. At the end, P set up the teepee in the backyard. It looked - and still looks - great! after the party, 5 families stayed for dinner. The kids played in the teepee for the whole evening. It was, I think a successful party, it was surely fun.
Finally, the party is over, there are no visitors, no big dinner plans... I finally had two days that I could enjoy being home with Miss N. She is making the baby noises and gets mad at me when I put her on her belly. She can spend quite some time alone, she looks around, traps her legs and waves her arms. When I go back to her, she smiles. I read quite some Jane Eyre, which I read for my coming book club. She is 4,5 kilos already, almost double the birth weight. She grows so fast, and the other two grow so fast... I just want to slow the time and watch them growing every inch, every knowledge, wisdom and maturity level. Don't want to miss a thing!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Baby oh Baby!
How much can somebody complain about pregnancy! I managed a good deal in the last ... 9 months. Some love being pregnant, I remember being over the clouds for the first two, but this time, I just couldn't wait it to be over. Tired, sick to my stomach and just uncomfortable, that's how it was. Oh, I did love the little kicks and the views of the little creature on the ultrasounds, of course I did. But it didn't stop me feeling like I was weeks overdue 3 weeks before my due date. I was just so sure this baby was going to be early, I think I gave everyone around me the same feeling of impatience.
When I went to the OB on Monday to hear that I was at just two and a half centimeter, I was truly disappointed. What was my fortune cookie saying just the Saturday before that: 'Good things come to the ones who wait. Be patient.' The air was full of signs that as a primer, this baby was coming after my due date. After March 26??!! That's like ages.
Then Monday evening at 11.30, I decided that I was not 'comfortable'. I couldn't go to bed. I walked around thinking, 'Will this go away, or are we on something?' 2 hours later, I decided to wake up P, I just couldn't count the minutes and honestly, I just didn't want to have contractions alone. P was deep asleep. Poor guy, he looked tired when he came downstairs to meet me. Then the contractions started to get stronger. I still wasn't sure, I didn't want to alarm everyone for nothing. But finally we decided to call Chris, who was my biggest support for this pregnancy, she was to take care of the other girls. P started calling, but we kept on getting her voice mail. The same for the home number and the same for Steve's cell. Then I started to get anxious. I was hoping that they were not at some other hospital with Steve's mother or something bad like that. I was also trying to think about our options. Who would come over to take care of the girls, or who would take them to their house? Who can we call in the middle of the night? P said he will go to Chris' door and knock, and tried to call their home for one last time. To our luck, Chris answered. She was over 15 minutes later and we were on our way to the hospital. It was after 2.00 am.
Last time at Condell, the ER was very crowded and I had to wait in line. This time I was lucky though, there were no one else to see. I got in a wheelchair in no time and was brought to the New Life Maternity Center. Everyone who saw me said "Oh, you are looking uncomfortable." They knew right away that I was to stay. Normally pregnant women go to the first room to be checked, if they are far enough, they are admitted. They brought me to the first room and after a look at my face, they brought me straight to the delivery room. The doctor was called, she was to come from Lake Forest. Mary Ellen, our doula arrived quite fast, she lives across the hospital. To my luck, the OB was Dr. Nakanishi, the nicest of the whole practice. While waiting for the OB, my contractions got stronger and stronger. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to wait for the doctor to arrive. But it was really our lucky day, she arrived just on time, and short after, Miss N was born. It was 3.43 am.
I wanted to hold her right away, Mary Ellen told the nurses to give the baby to me. I was in a state of extreme happiness. "She is so pretty" I kept on saying. After all the cleaning and apgar score etc, when they brought her back to me, I actually thought she was not so pretty. Oh well, Miss N, if you read this later, for your information, I think you are the prettiest little baby on earth. I just didn't like that they washed your hair I think. Oh, that hair of yours, the whole maternity wing had over your hair. So much and such a nice dark shade of brown.
I was brought to the recovery room, more a hotel room than a hospital room. P went home around 7am to wake up Chris and the kids. He brought the kids to the school and came back. He picked the kids up at 11.30 and brought them to the hospital. The girls were over the clouds!
I spent two nights at the hospital, which was really great for me. I let Miss N go to the nursery in the evenings so I could get some rest. P and the girls came over to visit everyday. Thursday, I went home with Miss N and now life goes on again. P spent 7 days at home and did such a great job running the household. We hardly had to cook thanks to the beautiful tradition of bringing over food when somebody is out of the hospital for any reason. We are still in this euphoria of happiness and I hope it will not leave the house for a long time. Miss N is already a part of this family, it's like she was meant to be here for years and we were waiting for her to come! And now, here she is!!
When I went to the OB on Monday to hear that I was at just two and a half centimeter, I was truly disappointed. What was my fortune cookie saying just the Saturday before that: 'Good things come to the ones who wait. Be patient.' The air was full of signs that as a primer, this baby was coming after my due date. After March 26??!! That's like ages.
Then Monday evening at 11.30, I decided that I was not 'comfortable'. I couldn't go to bed. I walked around thinking, 'Will this go away, or are we on something?' 2 hours later, I decided to wake up P, I just couldn't count the minutes and honestly, I just didn't want to have contractions alone. P was deep asleep. Poor guy, he looked tired when he came downstairs to meet me. Then the contractions started to get stronger. I still wasn't sure, I didn't want to alarm everyone for nothing. But finally we decided to call Chris, who was my biggest support for this pregnancy, she was to take care of the other girls. P started calling, but we kept on getting her voice mail. The same for the home number and the same for Steve's cell. Then I started to get anxious. I was hoping that they were not at some other hospital with Steve's mother or something bad like that. I was also trying to think about our options. Who would come over to take care of the girls, or who would take them to their house? Who can we call in the middle of the night? P said he will go to Chris' door and knock, and tried to call their home for one last time. To our luck, Chris answered. She was over 15 minutes later and we were on our way to the hospital. It was after 2.00 am.
Last time at Condell, the ER was very crowded and I had to wait in line. This time I was lucky though, there were no one else to see. I got in a wheelchair in no time and was brought to the New Life Maternity Center. Everyone who saw me said "Oh, you are looking uncomfortable." They knew right away that I was to stay. Normally pregnant women go to the first room to be checked, if they are far enough, they are admitted. They brought me to the first room and after a look at my face, they brought me straight to the delivery room. The doctor was called, she was to come from Lake Forest. Mary Ellen, our doula arrived quite fast, she lives across the hospital. To my luck, the OB was Dr. Nakanishi, the nicest of the whole practice. While waiting for the OB, my contractions got stronger and stronger. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to wait for the doctor to arrive. But it was really our lucky day, she arrived just on time, and short after, Miss N was born. It was 3.43 am.
I wanted to hold her right away, Mary Ellen told the nurses to give the baby to me. I was in a state of extreme happiness. "She is so pretty" I kept on saying. After all the cleaning and apgar score etc, when they brought her back to me, I actually thought she was not so pretty. Oh well, Miss N, if you read this later, for your information, I think you are the prettiest little baby on earth. I just didn't like that they washed your hair I think. Oh, that hair of yours, the whole maternity wing had over your hair. So much and such a nice dark shade of brown.
I was brought to the recovery room, more a hotel room than a hospital room. P went home around 7am to wake up Chris and the kids. He brought the kids to the school and came back. He picked the kids up at 11.30 and brought them to the hospital. The girls were over the clouds!
I spent two nights at the hospital, which was really great for me. I let Miss N go to the nursery in the evenings so I could get some rest. P and the girls came over to visit everyday. Thursday, I went home with Miss N and now life goes on again. P spent 7 days at home and did such a great job running the household. We hardly had to cook thanks to the beautiful tradition of bringing over food when somebody is out of the hospital for any reason. We are still in this euphoria of happiness and I hope it will not leave the house for a long time. Miss N is already a part of this family, it's like she was meant to be here for years and we were waiting for her to come! And now, here she is!!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
ER
While I'm sitting by my computer a the kitchen island, the wind is blowing like crazy outside. The big blizzard is all around us, swirling white pearls all over. Luckily, at this moment, there is no emergency on our side related to the storm.
It was months ago, someone was telling me about her emergency room trip with her son, he had a bad fever or something like that. I happened to tell her "Gosh, I'm glad we never had the emergency room experience with the girls." And I know how good I am at jinxing!!
Couple months later, at a P'less weekend, we started a beautiful day. It was Sunday, January 16 We saw Tangled with Tricia and the kids. Hannah and Miss F were giggling like teenagers behind us. After the movie, I took Miss F and Miss A ice skating. After we arrived, the rink started to get crowded with hockey players. I thought telling some to go to the other side, where the hockeyers are supposed to be. However, we were the only skaters, they seemed careful and I was keeping a close eye on the girls - I thought. I did tell the players who got close to the girls to be careful and to give them some space. At a certain moment, the rink got really crowded. I thou gt I should just take the girls to Westpark, where the rink is bigger, but on the other hand, we were almost going home. I actually started to get ready to go and gave the girls just a couple more minutes before I called them. One of those moments that you go back over and over again, I wish I just had called them at that moment! One moment they are skating, the other, Miss F is laying on the ice, crying!
She said she saw an older boy skate fast towards her. He must have been far, because I was watching the girls and there was no one close to them. She said as well that the boy was far, but he was very fast. Miss F thought he wouldn't stop, although at the last moment she saw the boy change direction. It was too late though, she got scared and made a weird turn.
Pretty scared to be on the ice with my pregnant belly, I ran to her as fast as I could. The blood gushing from her chin already made big stains on the white ice. I got her up to her feet, hoping that it wouldn't be a big cut. Of course it was, it was pretty nasty. After that, I had a Hulk moment. I don't exactly know how I did it, but in a very short time, I had two kids, still in their ice skates, in the car. I don't remember how I carried Miss F, because she is just too heavy for me at the moment, but I did.
We drove 60 miles and hour on the small streets to the... Emergency at Lake Forest Hospital. Our previous experiences with that hospital were less than pleasant, so I was a bit unsure about going there, but it was the closest place. I called Fauzia from the car, because Miss F spitted out pieces of teeth and I was devastated with the idea that her new teeth were broken. I literally thought she was missing half of her front teeth! Fauzia calmed me down a bit, I just had to go to the hospital and start from there.
Short after we arrived, we were taken care of. I knew she needed stitches. I asked right away for a plastic surgeon. Stitches on my pretty baby's face! The doctor came and took a look. Miss F was crying and I was holding her hand, trying to be calm so that she didn't get even more scared. The wound looked pretty deep to me and blood was still gushing. Miss A was watching silently. I signed her not to make a sound or say something so that she didn't scare Miss F. She was very brave and didn't interrupt a moment. She did get a good look at the wound.
The emergency room doctor got a bit angry with me for asking for a plastic surgeon. He said he could do as good job and the wound was under her chin. I should have asked him before asking for a plastic surgeon. I really didn't need the pressure. I told him I needed to talk to someone else before I make the decision. The doctor and the nurse left me alone with the kids. I started calling - luckily there was a phone on the wall, of course my cell battery was low! I just couldn't get a hold of anyone! Fauzia didn't answer her phone, p was nowhere to find... I finally got a hold of Nalissa. I had heard that her daughter had stitches lately. She told me her situation and why she choose a plastic surgeon. I was quite convinced by that moment that my decision was the right one. After talking to her, I got hold of Fauzia who assured me further and then I talked to P. When I told him we wanted to go on with a plastic surgeon, the doctor was not pleased but he did give us his number and acted more friendly when we were going home. Oh, I forgot to tell, the plastic surgeon was coming four hours later!! We were first going home to come back around 9 pm.
At home, I called Chris to see if she could have Miss A. After I told her the situation, she told me that the same plastic surgeon put stitches on Lauren's face. It was a disaster - not the result but the process. Well, exactly what I needed, knowing how scared Miss F was already about getting stitches. I needed help, I needed another grown up with me. Steve agreed to come to the hospital. Gosh we are so lucky with such friends! In the mean time, I managed to find a sitter for Miss A so that she didn't have to leave the house while I was gone with her sister.
Just a little side story here. I called couple people to see if they were available to babysit. One of the girls was not home but her mother was. I told her the situation and asked if Veronica was available. She was not home. After I hung up, our neighbor called back to say that they heard my message and that their daughter would be happy to come over to help out. While I was on the phone, I got a call from Veronica's number. I called back. It was actually her mother calling back to offer help, she wanted to babysit for me. I thought it was so nice of her!
Back to the story... At home, Miss F was doing quite OK. She was actually doing hand stands!! We had dinner and brought Miss A to bed - she was not pleased! At 8.30, we left her with Gretta and picked up Steve. At the hospital, Dr Lu came to check the wound. The blood started gushing again. (A nurse gave me a chair so that I could sit by F, instead of standing. Nobody wanted me to go in labor at that moment!) The Doc said he will give the sedative shot without any local anesthetic - exactly what upset Lauren a year ago. The local would take 50 minutes to work he said. I still cannot believe that there is no local anesthetic that works faster. There are cooling sprays and other stuff, right!? But he insisted there was no option, and he knew nobody wanted to wait until 10pm. So he gave the shot and made my baby scream. Steve said "tell me when to hold her" and I said "sit on her!" but it was not necessary. Miss F calmed down pretty fast and got the stitches. My brave big little girl! Just looking at the scar made my heart hurt. When we went home, she looked tired and shaken, but OK. She slept that night right next to me and every time I woke up - and I did wake up quite often, I had that heavy feeling in my chest. "My beautiful girl" I thought "My beautiful girl!" I couldn't stop thinking why on earth I hadn't get the kids in the car and drove to Westpark. I saw it coming. Why? I still think about it time to time, and feel bad.
I almost forgot to write about the teeth. Well, she did chip some teeth, but baby teeth. Her new teeth were intact and I am so thankful for that!
Blizzard is going on and so is my story. Oh, yes I am not done.
Five days after the stitches, on Friday, we went to the Doctor Lu's office to get the stitches out. Unfortunately, Miss F's friends told her that taking off the stitches hurted more than getting them. She was so nervous! It was of course no big deal and I told her to tell her friends how it went. Her face looks better than I expected. Of course there is a scar, it's not on a visible spot and it's healing beautifully. After telling that she would never ever skate again, she said last week to P that she actually would like to get new skates from Holland.
Before the stitches were out, I had a little moment with Miss A. As I said before, she saw everything, the wound, the blood... I hadn't realize the effect of the events on her, I was so focused on Miss F. Days after the stitches, out of nowhere, she started asking questions about wounds and blood and what happens to people when they bleed. Poor thing thought that her sister's wound would stay open forever. I'm glad she saw the closed wound and the much better looking scar and I think she is OK.
This brings us to Saturday, January 23rd. I'll tell this one next time.
It was months ago, someone was telling me about her emergency room trip with her son, he had a bad fever or something like that. I happened to tell her "Gosh, I'm glad we never had the emergency room experience with the girls." And I know how good I am at jinxing!!
Couple months later, at a P'less weekend, we started a beautiful day. It was Sunday, January 16 We saw Tangled with Tricia and the kids. Hannah and Miss F were giggling like teenagers behind us. After the movie, I took Miss F and Miss A ice skating. After we arrived, the rink started to get crowded with hockey players. I thought telling some to go to the other side, where the hockeyers are supposed to be. However, we were the only skaters, they seemed careful and I was keeping a close eye on the girls - I thought. I did tell the players who got close to the girls to be careful and to give them some space. At a certain moment, the rink got really crowded. I thou gt I should just take the girls to Westpark, where the rink is bigger, but on the other hand, we were almost going home. I actually started to get ready to go and gave the girls just a couple more minutes before I called them. One of those moments that you go back over and over again, I wish I just had called them at that moment! One moment they are skating, the other, Miss F is laying on the ice, crying!
She said she saw an older boy skate fast towards her. He must have been far, because I was watching the girls and there was no one close to them. She said as well that the boy was far, but he was very fast. Miss F thought he wouldn't stop, although at the last moment she saw the boy change direction. It was too late though, she got scared and made a weird turn.
Pretty scared to be on the ice with my pregnant belly, I ran to her as fast as I could. The blood gushing from her chin already made big stains on the white ice. I got her up to her feet, hoping that it wouldn't be a big cut. Of course it was, it was pretty nasty. After that, I had a Hulk moment. I don't exactly know how I did it, but in a very short time, I had two kids, still in their ice skates, in the car. I don't remember how I carried Miss F, because she is just too heavy for me at the moment, but I did.
We drove 60 miles and hour on the small streets to the... Emergency at Lake Forest Hospital. Our previous experiences with that hospital were less than pleasant, so I was a bit unsure about going there, but it was the closest place. I called Fauzia from the car, because Miss F spitted out pieces of teeth and I was devastated with the idea that her new teeth were broken. I literally thought she was missing half of her front teeth! Fauzia calmed me down a bit, I just had to go to the hospital and start from there.
Short after we arrived, we were taken care of. I knew she needed stitches. I asked right away for a plastic surgeon. Stitches on my pretty baby's face! The doctor came and took a look. Miss F was crying and I was holding her hand, trying to be calm so that she didn't get even more scared. The wound looked pretty deep to me and blood was still gushing. Miss A was watching silently. I signed her not to make a sound or say something so that she didn't scare Miss F. She was very brave and didn't interrupt a moment. She did get a good look at the wound.
The emergency room doctor got a bit angry with me for asking for a plastic surgeon. He said he could do as good job and the wound was under her chin. I should have asked him before asking for a plastic surgeon. I really didn't need the pressure. I told him I needed to talk to someone else before I make the decision. The doctor and the nurse left me alone with the kids. I started calling - luckily there was a phone on the wall, of course my cell battery was low! I just couldn't get a hold of anyone! Fauzia didn't answer her phone, p was nowhere to find... I finally got a hold of Nalissa. I had heard that her daughter had stitches lately. She told me her situation and why she choose a plastic surgeon. I was quite convinced by that moment that my decision was the right one. After talking to her, I got hold of Fauzia who assured me further and then I talked to P. When I told him we wanted to go on with a plastic surgeon, the doctor was not pleased but he did give us his number and acted more friendly when we were going home. Oh, I forgot to tell, the plastic surgeon was coming four hours later!! We were first going home to come back around 9 pm.
At home, I called Chris to see if she could have Miss A. After I told her the situation, she told me that the same plastic surgeon put stitches on Lauren's face. It was a disaster - not the result but the process. Well, exactly what I needed, knowing how scared Miss F was already about getting stitches. I needed help, I needed another grown up with me. Steve agreed to come to the hospital. Gosh we are so lucky with such friends! In the mean time, I managed to find a sitter for Miss A so that she didn't have to leave the house while I was gone with her sister.
Just a little side story here. I called couple people to see if they were available to babysit. One of the girls was not home but her mother was. I told her the situation and asked if Veronica was available. She was not home. After I hung up, our neighbor called back to say that they heard my message and that their daughter would be happy to come over to help out. While I was on the phone, I got a call from Veronica's number. I called back. It was actually her mother calling back to offer help, she wanted to babysit for me. I thought it was so nice of her!
Back to the story... At home, Miss F was doing quite OK. She was actually doing hand stands!! We had dinner and brought Miss A to bed - she was not pleased! At 8.30, we left her with Gretta and picked up Steve. At the hospital, Dr Lu came to check the wound. The blood started gushing again. (A nurse gave me a chair so that I could sit by F, instead of standing. Nobody wanted me to go in labor at that moment!) The Doc said he will give the sedative shot without any local anesthetic - exactly what upset Lauren a year ago. The local would take 50 minutes to work he said. I still cannot believe that there is no local anesthetic that works faster. There are cooling sprays and other stuff, right!? But he insisted there was no option, and he knew nobody wanted to wait until 10pm. So he gave the shot and made my baby scream. Steve said "tell me when to hold her" and I said "sit on her!" but it was not necessary. Miss F calmed down pretty fast and got the stitches. My brave big little girl! Just looking at the scar made my heart hurt. When we went home, she looked tired and shaken, but OK. She slept that night right next to me and every time I woke up - and I did wake up quite often, I had that heavy feeling in my chest. "My beautiful girl" I thought "My beautiful girl!" I couldn't stop thinking why on earth I hadn't get the kids in the car and drove to Westpark. I saw it coming. Why? I still think about it time to time, and feel bad.
I almost forgot to write about the teeth. Well, she did chip some teeth, but baby teeth. Her new teeth were intact and I am so thankful for that!
Blizzard is going on and so is my story. Oh, yes I am not done.
Five days after the stitches, on Friday, we went to the Doctor Lu's office to get the stitches out. Unfortunately, Miss F's friends told her that taking off the stitches hurted more than getting them. She was so nervous! It was of course no big deal and I told her to tell her friends how it went. Her face looks better than I expected. Of course there is a scar, it's not on a visible spot and it's healing beautifully. After telling that she would never ever skate again, she said last week to P that she actually would like to get new skates from Holland.
Before the stitches were out, I had a little moment with Miss A. As I said before, she saw everything, the wound, the blood... I hadn't realize the effect of the events on her, I was so focused on Miss F. Days after the stitches, out of nowhere, she started asking questions about wounds and blood and what happens to people when they bleed. Poor thing thought that her sister's wound would stay open forever. I'm glad she saw the closed wound and the much better looking scar and I think she is OK.
This brings us to Saturday, January 23rd. I'll tell this one next time.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
NYC and sleepover
I resisted going to NYC for a while. I'm not very energetic and where do I leave the kids when we are gone??!! Well, it was Tricia who convinced me that I just had to go. That one night we were planning became two nights and last friday, we were at the Big Apple!! It took me a while to get used to the idea that the kids would be OK. But of course they were just looking forward to the sleepover. Miss A said in this proud tone,
"Am I not too young to have a sleep over?" ("Yes baby, you are actually, but mama-papa are ready to bend some rules to please themselves!!!>>>")
Miss F was staying not one but two nights at her best friend's house, she couldn't be happier. She did make sure that I put one of new school pictures of both in my valet and she made me order copies of family pictures for them to take to Tricia's.
I realize how hard I found it, look how much time I spent just writing about leaving the kids home. Now it's time to go further, because we went to NYC and that is something!!!!
We arrived to LaGuardia in the evening, took the taxi to the hotel I found in 5 minutes on Internet. Honestly I was a bit nervous about it. Because of us Eddie and MA had changed their reservation. But the New York Manhattan hotel was quite OK. The nicest thing was the location, it was on the Korean street, always full of young people, lively and full of restaurants. Since Eddie and MA were at a musical, P and I decided to go out and eat something - which I do continuously lately, it's almost scary!! We found a Korean restaurant where the BBQ is in the middle of the table. Before we ordered, Eddie and MA arrived and it was a blast. Good food, good friends, what more can I say.
From there, we walked to the Times Square. A little disappointment, it is busy and surrounded with colorful screens, but further??... Then of course we had to go to a bar. Without a local, the best way to find a decent place is to ask a local. So we asked a police guy where we could have a drink. (I just couldn't come up with the word decent, so I said "family bar" to the policeman. He probably thought I was stoned or something...) We ended up in a street where Irish bars were lined up. We entered the most cosy looking one. When we arrived back to the hotel, it was around 3am. I ended up sleeping around 4am, something to pay for later!!
The next morning, of course getting up was hell, but we managed. We made an attempt to have breakfast at a nice looking bakery just under the hotel. Unfortunately they had nothing without milk or milk products. Disappointed, we left for the Central Park. Ah, what a beautiful day and what a beautiful place. Autumn colors and the sunshine just made it. People were jogging and biking on the streets, jazz musicians were giving little concerts, families cruising around... We saw the carousel and the ice skating rink. I just had the book club back at home about the "Catcher in the Rye" and scenes of the book came to life. Then we found (again asked someone) for a place to sit and eat. We ended up at the boathouse, which Sonja was telling me about. We had a fancy brunch.
After brunch, we walked through the park a bit more, and went to the 5th Ave. We walked to the Rockefeller Building. We went to the observation deck and had a great view of New york and the surroundings. It was good for the orientation, to see how Manhattan is an island and New Jersey looks so different and greener than NYC. The Central Park is really is a jewel in the middle of the concrete forest.
Eddie and MA were planning to do some shopping. We decided to take a cab and try to see the Statue of Liberty. Well, the taxi drive was much longer than expected, and when we arrived to the dock around 3.40, the last ferry to the Statue was gone. The seashore was beautiful though, so we walked around a bit. By that time, I was dragging my feet behind me, the tiredness was unbearable. We decided to go back to the hotel after seeing the Ground Zero. It was something to see where the Twin Towers were standing and the plans for the new building. We walked through the financial buildings, saw Deloitte's nice spot at the Big Apple, and of course all the hot shots in exactly same suits, like school kids in uniforms.
At the hotel, I wasn't the only one exhausted. P and I both fell asleep. When we met with Eddie and MA at the lobby, I was still not feeling fit. However, the story the came up with did cheer me up. They had the most hilarious story. After we went to Statue of Liberty, they ran into a crowd. The police was keeping people away from a movie set just on the street. So the two somehow ended up inside the police line and all of a sudden, they were the part of the crowd (all casted and paid actors) acting in the "crowd" scene. I can't remeber which movie it is, but we'll find it out. They had to act like they were watching someone climb or jump from a building. They had to give facial reactions to the command from a speaker. It's so funny that the people around them were paid actors and were seriously acting to the commands. I wonder if someone will realize at the montage the tall guy and the little girl with the backpack. And they were just next to the "star" of the scene. Hilarious!
To celebrate the breakthrough of Eddie and MA, we went tout for dinner. Well, actually the dinner arrangements were done by my assistant Tricia (in the car while I was driving to IKEA) couple days ago. I wanted to keep it as a secret, but P had to tell something and before I knew Eddie knew all about it. So we took a cab (that's what you do in New York) to "Lucky Chengs", a restaurant where the waiters are travesties in sexy lingerie. The guys (or women, or bitches as they kept on calling around) did little gigs, shows and a competition. (Six ladies from the restaurant guests had to do a lap dance for a guy, again, a restaurant guest. We were supposed to select he best one.) It was an experience. I liked the food but I understand that not every one's food was as good. It was quite loud, though. It just sucked the energy out of me. Ah, this little baby must be thinking the world is a horribly loud place. Even before the end of the dinner, I was exhausted. After we were done, MA and I decided to take a cab to the hotel. Oh, it was such a good night sleep!
Sunday morning, we had just enough time to have a breakfast and P and I had to say goodbye to our friends. Of course Eddie and MA went back to the city for some more shopping, I think they filled a whole big suitcase while in NYC for almost 4 days! P was actually not ready to leave, he still wanted to see more of the city but I think I was quite ready to see our babies. I knew they had great time, but still, they belong by us.
We picked up the girls from Tricia around 4pm. They had a lot to tell. Well, the first night, Miss F was a little sad and had to take out our family pictures. The next evening, it was Miss A's turn. It's good to know they did miss us, because Miss A said she could have stayed another 3-4 days. Nice to hear! Of course the top moment was when Miss F, at Rowan's b-day party, got to choose her own American Girl doll. Seven girls and Brooke went downtown in a limo, had dinner at the American Girl place and each girl got her own doll. Brooke found it over the top herself, but it was a Grandpa treat for Rowan.
It was a dream come true for Miss F, who wanted to have such a doll for the longest time. We have been very strict about it. She was always allowed to buy one with her own savings, but she realizes that it would cost her all her savings, so she didn't want to buy one herself. Oh, so many tears I had to wipe from her face in the last months. And now she has her own doll (and her savings!!) The funny thing is, she came home with her doll and the pictures of 4 other dolls. Both girls want one doll from the pictures from Santa. What happened to being happy with the one doll she got at the b-day party?? The whole situation is a bit sad for Miss A, I really think she believes she will receive a doll for Christmas. Back from NYC to tough parenting issues. But still I'm rather here then sitting at a loud restaurant with dick shaped balloons sticking from people's head around me.
Greetings to Eddie and MA, it was fun and see you soon!
"Am I not too young to have a sleep over?" ("Yes baby, you are actually, but mama-papa are ready to bend some rules to please themselves!!!>>>")
Miss F was staying not one but two nights at her best friend's house, she couldn't be happier. She did make sure that I put one of new school pictures of both in my valet and she made me order copies of family pictures for them to take to Tricia's.
I realize how hard I found it, look how much time I spent just writing about leaving the kids home. Now it's time to go further, because we went to NYC and that is something!!!!
We arrived to LaGuardia in the evening, took the taxi to the hotel I found in 5 minutes on Internet. Honestly I was a bit nervous about it. Because of us Eddie and MA had changed their reservation. But the New York Manhattan hotel was quite OK. The nicest thing was the location, it was on the Korean street, always full of young people, lively and full of restaurants. Since Eddie and MA were at a musical, P and I decided to go out and eat something - which I do continuously lately, it's almost scary!! We found a Korean restaurant where the BBQ is in the middle of the table. Before we ordered, Eddie and MA arrived and it was a blast. Good food, good friends, what more can I say.
From there, we walked to the Times Square. A little disappointment, it is busy and surrounded with colorful screens, but further??... Then of course we had to go to a bar. Without a local, the best way to find a decent place is to ask a local. So we asked a police guy where we could have a drink. (I just couldn't come up with the word decent, so I said "family bar" to the policeman. He probably thought I was stoned or something...) We ended up in a street where Irish bars were lined up. We entered the most cosy looking one. When we arrived back to the hotel, it was around 3am. I ended up sleeping around 4am, something to pay for later!!
The next morning, of course getting up was hell, but we managed. We made an attempt to have breakfast at a nice looking bakery just under the hotel. Unfortunately they had nothing without milk or milk products. Disappointed, we left for the Central Park. Ah, what a beautiful day and what a beautiful place. Autumn colors and the sunshine just made it. People were jogging and biking on the streets, jazz musicians were giving little concerts, families cruising around... We saw the carousel and the ice skating rink. I just had the book club back at home about the "Catcher in the Rye" and scenes of the book came to life. Then we found (again asked someone) for a place to sit and eat. We ended up at the boathouse, which Sonja was telling me about. We had a fancy brunch.
After brunch, we walked through the park a bit more, and went to the 5th Ave. We walked to the Rockefeller Building. We went to the observation deck and had a great view of New york and the surroundings. It was good for the orientation, to see how Manhattan is an island and New Jersey looks so different and greener than NYC. The Central Park is really is a jewel in the middle of the concrete forest.
Eddie and MA were planning to do some shopping. We decided to take a cab and try to see the Statue of Liberty. Well, the taxi drive was much longer than expected, and when we arrived to the dock around 3.40, the last ferry to the Statue was gone. The seashore was beautiful though, so we walked around a bit. By that time, I was dragging my feet behind me, the tiredness was unbearable. We decided to go back to the hotel after seeing the Ground Zero. It was something to see where the Twin Towers were standing and the plans for the new building. We walked through the financial buildings, saw Deloitte's nice spot at the Big Apple, and of course all the hot shots in exactly same suits, like school kids in uniforms.
At the hotel, I wasn't the only one exhausted. P and I both fell asleep. When we met with Eddie and MA at the lobby, I was still not feeling fit. However, the story the came up with did cheer me up. They had the most hilarious story. After we went to Statue of Liberty, they ran into a crowd. The police was keeping people away from a movie set just on the street. So the two somehow ended up inside the police line and all of a sudden, they were the part of the crowd (all casted and paid actors) acting in the "crowd" scene. I can't remeber which movie it is, but we'll find it out. They had to act like they were watching someone climb or jump from a building. They had to give facial reactions to the command from a speaker. It's so funny that the people around them were paid actors and were seriously acting to the commands. I wonder if someone will realize at the montage the tall guy and the little girl with the backpack. And they were just next to the "star" of the scene. Hilarious!
To celebrate the breakthrough of Eddie and MA, we went tout for dinner. Well, actually the dinner arrangements were done by my assistant Tricia (in the car while I was driving to IKEA) couple days ago. I wanted to keep it as a secret, but P had to tell something and before I knew Eddie knew all about it. So we took a cab (that's what you do in New York) to "Lucky Chengs", a restaurant where the waiters are travesties in sexy lingerie. The guys (or women, or bitches as they kept on calling around) did little gigs, shows and a competition. (Six ladies from the restaurant guests had to do a lap dance for a guy, again, a restaurant guest. We were supposed to select he best one.) It was an experience. I liked the food but I understand that not every one's food was as good. It was quite loud, though. It just sucked the energy out of me. Ah, this little baby must be thinking the world is a horribly loud place. Even before the end of the dinner, I was exhausted. After we were done, MA and I decided to take a cab to the hotel. Oh, it was such a good night sleep!
Sunday morning, we had just enough time to have a breakfast and P and I had to say goodbye to our friends. Of course Eddie and MA went back to the city for some more shopping, I think they filled a whole big suitcase while in NYC for almost 4 days! P was actually not ready to leave, he still wanted to see more of the city but I think I was quite ready to see our babies. I knew they had great time, but still, they belong by us.
We picked up the girls from Tricia around 4pm. They had a lot to tell. Well, the first night, Miss F was a little sad and had to take out our family pictures. The next evening, it was Miss A's turn. It's good to know they did miss us, because Miss A said she could have stayed another 3-4 days. Nice to hear! Of course the top moment was when Miss F, at Rowan's b-day party, got to choose her own American Girl doll. Seven girls and Brooke went downtown in a limo, had dinner at the American Girl place and each girl got her own doll. Brooke found it over the top herself, but it was a Grandpa treat for Rowan.
It was a dream come true for Miss F, who wanted to have such a doll for the longest time. We have been very strict about it. She was always allowed to buy one with her own savings, but she realizes that it would cost her all her savings, so she didn't want to buy one herself. Oh, so many tears I had to wipe from her face in the last months. And now she has her own doll (and her savings!!) The funny thing is, she came home with her doll and the pictures of 4 other dolls. Both girls want one doll from the pictures from Santa. What happened to being happy with the one doll she got at the b-day party?? The whole situation is a bit sad for Miss A, I really think she believes she will receive a doll for Christmas. Back from NYC to tough parenting issues. But still I'm rather here then sitting at a loud restaurant with dick shaped balloons sticking from people's head around me.
Greetings to Eddie and MA, it was fun and see you soon!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Independence in Montessori
Very now and then, there is a presentation of teachers at our Montessori school about a subject important for the education of our kids. This time it was about independence. Of course Montessori education implies a lot of independence, what why is it so important.
The presentation started with the class of 3-6 year olds, called primary. With examples from the class, we saw how the kids are gently maneuvered to be self sufficient (tying shoes to choosing their own work) and how they are let free to make mistakes and learn from them. (breaking a glass to spelling phonetically.) Especially the spelling was very interested. When a kids is trying to spell a word and asks a teacher how to make the "u" sound to write America, the teacher gives the letter "u" instead of "a". This goes on until the kid is ready to learn the proper spelling of words.
In the lower elementary (6-9), we saw how the children are give a general story about a part of history and tools to dig in whatever is interesting for them. They have freedom to choose their work partners, pursue their interests and work independent from teacher and a curriculum.
In upper elementary (9-12), they are allowed to do research on subjects they are interested in. After doing research at school, they can organize a trip to a museum or a college, where ever they can get more information about the subject. They have to plan all the trip details, get permissions, contact the authorities and people in question, find a parent to drive them to the location and after the trip, send thank you notes.
These were interesting, but the creme de la creme was the presentation from the two secondary level (12-14) teachers. At that level, the independence really finds its use. The children are self sufficient, as individuals and as together as a group. They follow a tough curriculum with the freedom to choose their own pace. Next to the studies they do, they also plan these trips (3 per year.) They literally have all the responsibility, choosing the place, getting the directions, planning cooking, finances, everything. I wouldn't be able manage such a complex process, it's so much work. The trips aren't without purpose. They build, they help, they discover... They use everything they learned from all the way from primary to that day. They are self sufficient, independent and harmonious as a group.
when we started Montessori education with Miss A at the Young Children's Community (18 months to 3 year), we would say with other parents that it would be so nice to be in that classroom. We wished we were at that age and in there. Now I prefer Secondary. The only problem is, even though I would manage Young Children's Community without problem, I am not so sure about the Secondary level. I doubt I have the life skills the kids get from all those years at the Montessori School.
The presentation started with the class of 3-6 year olds, called primary. With examples from the class, we saw how the kids are gently maneuvered to be self sufficient (tying shoes to choosing their own work) and how they are let free to make mistakes and learn from them. (breaking a glass to spelling phonetically.) Especially the spelling was very interested. When a kids is trying to spell a word and asks a teacher how to make the "u" sound to write America, the teacher gives the letter "u" instead of "a". This goes on until the kid is ready to learn the proper spelling of words.
In the lower elementary (6-9), we saw how the children are give a general story about a part of history and tools to dig in whatever is interesting for them. They have freedom to choose their work partners, pursue their interests and work independent from teacher and a curriculum.
In upper elementary (9-12), they are allowed to do research on subjects they are interested in. After doing research at school, they can organize a trip to a museum or a college, where ever they can get more information about the subject. They have to plan all the trip details, get permissions, contact the authorities and people in question, find a parent to drive them to the location and after the trip, send thank you notes.
These were interesting, but the creme de la creme was the presentation from the two secondary level (12-14) teachers. At that level, the independence really finds its use. The children are self sufficient, as individuals and as together as a group. They follow a tough curriculum with the freedom to choose their own pace. Next to the studies they do, they also plan these trips (3 per year.) They literally have all the responsibility, choosing the place, getting the directions, planning cooking, finances, everything. I wouldn't be able manage such a complex process, it's so much work. The trips aren't without purpose. They build, they help, they discover... They use everything they learned from all the way from primary to that day. They are self sufficient, independent and harmonious as a group.
when we started Montessori education with Miss A at the Young Children's Community (18 months to 3 year), we would say with other parents that it would be so nice to be in that classroom. We wished we were at that age and in there. Now I prefer Secondary. The only problem is, even though I would manage Young Children's Community without problem, I am not so sure about the Secondary level. I doubt I have the life skills the kids get from all those years at the Montessori School.
Back to life
Last weekend was "back to life". Friday evening, we were invited to Melinda's house for a dinner with her and Tony's family. This time, we said "yes". I tried to rest during the day to be able to make it, and I did.
When we arrived, I loved the expression on especially Lillian and Amelia. They were genuinely excited. Tally to Miss A from the hand and they were gone for the rest of the evening. P had a nice conversation with Tony's husband and we got to know their families better.
Saturday morning, Miss F had her b-day party at the bowling place. 9 girls and 1 boy bowled for an hour. Then we had some cake in the party room. It was great, the bowling place arranged everything for us, we hardly had to do anything. P has a video of the kids literally screaming a song - all of them!
Even though it was all well arranged, I came home exhausted. But there was no time to rest. P went to play tennis with Paul for a short while - which probably looked like anything but tennis!! Then we left for Deniz's house. We saw them one whole year ago. The little Alexander was not so little anymore, more like a giant 2 year old. The girls had Alexander had a blast. They are so welcoming and nice, we ended up leaving pretty late. Of course in good old days, late would be 1 am (with the kids) or later (without the kids.) It was 10.30 when we arrived home. Still I had to pay for it the next day.
Sunday, Paul came for a crepe breakfast. So I got up, made crepes and had a major bleeding that scared the sh.. out of us. Now we know that it's all OK, but at the moment, I literally screamed when I saw what was happening. That same day, after quite some doubt, P left for Europe. This is his first trip since 3 months!!
Looks like I'm OK, the baby is OK and I manage the household - not without hiccups- without P. I even went to swim today, for 12 minutes!! 12 long minutes. Had to sleep on the couch for 1,5 hours after that, but I did swim!!
When we arrived, I loved the expression on especially Lillian and Amelia. They were genuinely excited. Tally to Miss A from the hand and they were gone for the rest of the evening. P had a nice conversation with Tony's husband and we got to know their families better.
Saturday morning, Miss F had her b-day party at the bowling place. 9 girls and 1 boy bowled for an hour. Then we had some cake in the party room. It was great, the bowling place arranged everything for us, we hardly had to do anything. P has a video of the kids literally screaming a song - all of them!
Even though it was all well arranged, I came home exhausted. But there was no time to rest. P went to play tennis with Paul for a short while - which probably looked like anything but tennis!! Then we left for Deniz's house. We saw them one whole year ago. The little Alexander was not so little anymore, more like a giant 2 year old. The girls had Alexander had a blast. They are so welcoming and nice, we ended up leaving pretty late. Of course in good old days, late would be 1 am (with the kids) or later (without the kids.) It was 10.30 when we arrived home. Still I had to pay for it the next day.
Sunday, Paul came for a crepe breakfast. So I got up, made crepes and had a major bleeding that scared the sh.. out of us. Now we know that it's all OK, but at the moment, I literally screamed when I saw what was happening. That same day, after quite some doubt, P left for Europe. This is his first trip since 3 months!!
Looks like I'm OK, the baby is OK and I manage the household - not without hiccups- without P. I even went to swim today, for 12 minutes!! 12 long minutes. Had to sleep on the couch for 1,5 hours after that, but I did swim!!
Monday, September 20, 2010
What was he thinkig!!
P wanted a manly dinner yesterday. Me and the girls had drumsticks from the over, one for each, two for me. P BBQed for himself, a huge, I mean HUGE steak. He put delightedly half an onion on it and took a glass of wine. Fine!
When it was bed time, and don't forget about my extreme smell sense thanks to the pregnancy, he decided to chat with me in bed. Chat? It's more breathing to my face - which became purple in no time. I had to jump out of the bed to not to puke. He was approx. 1 meter from my face but Gosh, I can smell a burb from 3 meters!... So P is not so happy with me because I just cannot stand him smelling to my face - he says he will get a new wife -, but I think he should be happy. I almost moved myself to the guest room last night, but I didn't do it. (and seriously a new wife? who would ever stand that smell and take him??) He just had to turn his back to me.
This is not a complain posting. I am actually doing so much better - knock on the wood -, I didn't puke for 7 days. I celebrated this by going to the pool and swimming like an 80 year old lady for 10 minutes. But well, it's an achievement. I even went to have lunch with Fauzia and didn't fall asleep at the table. We will go to the doctor tomorrow, I am very excited about it. Miss A will be with us, she is out of school then. When F heard this, she had to cry so hard!.. Luckily, she has a playdate with Dagny after school, that was enough to cheer her up.
Just before I finish, I just wanted to say how sorry i am to hear that Hester and family will move to Singapore. I think it's great for them, but it's just so sad to see another friend leave. Well, I wrote it before: who ever we become friends with tends to move away, to a far far country. So beware!
When it was bed time, and don't forget about my extreme smell sense thanks to the pregnancy, he decided to chat with me in bed. Chat? It's more breathing to my face - which became purple in no time. I had to jump out of the bed to not to puke. He was approx. 1 meter from my face but Gosh, I can smell a burb from 3 meters!... So P is not so happy with me because I just cannot stand him smelling to my face - he says he will get a new wife -, but I think he should be happy. I almost moved myself to the guest room last night, but I didn't do it. (and seriously a new wife? who would ever stand that smell and take him??) He just had to turn his back to me.
This is not a complain posting. I am actually doing so much better - knock on the wood -, I didn't puke for 7 days. I celebrated this by going to the pool and swimming like an 80 year old lady for 10 minutes. But well, it's an achievement. I even went to have lunch with Fauzia and didn't fall asleep at the table. We will go to the doctor tomorrow, I am very excited about it. Miss A will be with us, she is out of school then. When F heard this, she had to cry so hard!.. Luckily, she has a playdate with Dagny after school, that was enough to cheer her up.
Just before I finish, I just wanted to say how sorry i am to hear that Hester and family will move to Singapore. I think it's great for them, but it's just so sad to see another friend leave. Well, I wrote it before: who ever we become friends with tends to move away, to a far far country. So beware!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Nausea
I wish I didn't make a posting like this. I was actually planning to write couple things that I still have to put here, like the trip to Yellowstone or my mom's visit. But the nausea and the dizziness is just taking my days over. I cannot function at all. Poor P, he has to do everything. He's like a single dad. And he tries so hard, I feel bad for being the weak one. Normally I am the one who "takes care", and I like that role. I cannot cook, it makes me puke. I cannot even think about going to the supermarket. The idea of all the food around makes my stomach upset. The only thing I do is to sleep. Today, I brought the kids to school - yes I managed that! - then I slept from 9.30 until 11.00. Then I picked up Miss A. After her lunch, I somehow managed to position myself on the couch around 12.30pm and when I checked the time, it was 3.00pm. I didn't really sleep, I could still hear the little one walking and talking. I even remember giving answers to her questions, but oh boy, I was in another world!
I'm almost in my 12th week. That means almost the end of the 1st trimester. I hope this time, unlike the other pregnancies, I will really feel good in my 2nd and 3rd trimesters. I am looking forward to it! Cross your fingers!
I'm almost in my 12th week. That means almost the end of the 1st trimester. I hope this time, unlike the other pregnancies, I will really feel good in my 2nd and 3rd trimesters. I am looking forward to it! Cross your fingers!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Sting at Ravinia
I had to get up at 4.30am to get those lawn tickets. Sting was sold out before the tickets were available for non-members. We wanted to have pavilion tickets, sit and listen... No hurry to get a nice picnic spot - not meant for us. But it's Sting at Ravinia, we were lucky that we could go!!
At 4.45pm, Chris came over and picked me up. I had the blankets and the portable chairs. We went to Ellie's. She had this heavy picnic basket and some great cheese and other nibble food. Chris brought us to the door of Ravinia. Well, not without a hassle. The police held all the roads and Chris rolled down the window and said everyone that I am pregnant to get us as close as possible - not a lie, but quite embarrassing!!. The doors were open at 5.00 and Ellie and I entered Ravinia at 5.20 to find out that it was as packed as possible, already! It was so busy that we had to squeeze by a garbage can and steal some space (6 inches) from a poor guy who would wait another hour for his party to arrive.
Then Ellie started putting up our picnic. Real plates, real glasses, a vase with flowers, candles, etc. I tried to lift her picnic basket later, it was as heavy as a dead horse!! Wonder why... I have to give it to her, though. We had the best looking picnic around!
Just before 7.00, P, Chris and Steve arrived. 7.30 sharp, Sting started to sing. We sat there and had good food and talked to good friends for the first half. Then P and Steve left t take a look at the stage. After them, left Ellie. After she came back, the three of us left for the stage while "Every Breath You Take" was playing. We got to the edge of the lawn and peek through heads to catch a glans of Sting. Ellie was dancing and trying to keep this one gut away from her. In the mean time, Chris was making her way to the fences that separate the lawn and the pavilion seats. Ellie didn't follow. All of a sudden Chris and I were standing in front of the gate. Chris said to the girl who was checking the tickets something about me being pregnant(!!??) and tried to get us in. The girl said something back which I didn't hear. Nevertheless, I knew she wasn't letting us in.Couple minutes later, the girls turned away for a second and I felt Chris pull me forward. The girl did a last attempt to stop me, but I didn't even look at her (if I did, I would have gone back) and we were in the pavilion. Half way through, there was a guy from security checking tickets. We said we were sitting behind somewhere and that we left he tickets with our party. Chris literally held the guy's head and said "Everyone is taller than me, please let us through." He smiled, but didn't move away. We listened to couple of songs there, half way to the stage. Sting was already so close, I was happy where we were. But then the unexpected happened and the security guy said his colleague to take over and left. The other guy didn't understand what he was supposed to do and followed the first one to ask him what the matter was. Before they could secure the path, we moved forward. We were now in front of the stage, just couple people before us, left to Sting. We could see the orchestra, the sweat on the faces of the musicians and all the expressions. The guitarist was playing right in front of us.
This was still not enough. Slow by slow, Chris made our way to Sting and at the encores we were literally standing in front of him. There was nothing but the security between us. It was truly amazing. And Sting came back for 5-6 times. He sang all those beautiful songs while we were watching him from 1,5 meter distance!! Too bad the end had to come and he and the CSO (Chicago Symphony Orchestra) left. Later we heard that P and Steve got tickets and were sitting in the pavilion, somewhere close to the fences. They didn't want to believe we were so close to Sting and of course we didn't have any camera - or phone with a camera - with us. But well, the memory is clear and fresh in our minds and we will always remember how we made our way to the stage, Chris and I. Chris, you are the crazies and really awesome!!
At 4.45pm, Chris came over and picked me up. I had the blankets and the portable chairs. We went to Ellie's. She had this heavy picnic basket and some great cheese and other nibble food. Chris brought us to the door of Ravinia. Well, not without a hassle. The police held all the roads and Chris rolled down the window and said everyone that I am pregnant to get us as close as possible - not a lie, but quite embarrassing!!. The doors were open at 5.00 and Ellie and I entered Ravinia at 5.20 to find out that it was as packed as possible, already! It was so busy that we had to squeeze by a garbage can and steal some space (6 inches) from a poor guy who would wait another hour for his party to arrive.
Then Ellie started putting up our picnic. Real plates, real glasses, a vase with flowers, candles, etc. I tried to lift her picnic basket later, it was as heavy as a dead horse!! Wonder why... I have to give it to her, though. We had the best looking picnic around!
Just before 7.00, P, Chris and Steve arrived. 7.30 sharp, Sting started to sing. We sat there and had good food and talked to good friends for the first half. Then P and Steve left t take a look at the stage. After them, left Ellie. After she came back, the three of us left for the stage while "Every Breath You Take" was playing. We got to the edge of the lawn and peek through heads to catch a glans of Sting. Ellie was dancing and trying to keep this one gut away from her. In the mean time, Chris was making her way to the fences that separate the lawn and the pavilion seats. Ellie didn't follow. All of a sudden Chris and I were standing in front of the gate. Chris said to the girl who was checking the tickets something about me being pregnant(!!??) and tried to get us in. The girl said something back which I didn't hear. Nevertheless, I knew she wasn't letting us in.Couple minutes later, the girls turned away for a second and I felt Chris pull me forward. The girl did a last attempt to stop me, but I didn't even look at her (if I did, I would have gone back) and we were in the pavilion. Half way through, there was a guy from security checking tickets. We said we were sitting behind somewhere and that we left he tickets with our party. Chris literally held the guy's head and said "Everyone is taller than me, please let us through." He smiled, but didn't move away. We listened to couple of songs there, half way to the stage. Sting was already so close, I was happy where we were. But then the unexpected happened and the security guy said his colleague to take over and left. The other guy didn't understand what he was supposed to do and followed the first one to ask him what the matter was. Before they could secure the path, we moved forward. We were now in front of the stage, just couple people before us, left to Sting. We could see the orchestra, the sweat on the faces of the musicians and all the expressions. The guitarist was playing right in front of us.
This was still not enough. Slow by slow, Chris made our way to Sting and at the encores we were literally standing in front of him. There was nothing but the security between us. It was truly amazing. And Sting came back for 5-6 times. He sang all those beautiful songs while we were watching him from 1,5 meter distance!! Too bad the end had to come and he and the CSO (Chicago Symphony Orchestra) left. Later we heard that P and Steve got tickets and were sitting in the pavilion, somewhere close to the fences. They didn't want to believe we were so close to Sting and of course we didn't have any camera - or phone with a camera - with us. But well, the memory is clear and fresh in our minds and we will always remember how we made our way to the stage, Chris and I. Chris, you are the crazies and really awesome!!
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