Lily and Jack

Free as Bird

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Sun, 29 Dec 2013 02:40:00 +0000

So in order to fill the void between monthly blog posts, we have started a Twitter feed for Lily and Jack - it will be intermittently updated with funny things that happen and pictures and video. The postings will be in the upper right corner of the blog or you can follow along directly on Twitter by following @bean_pickle.

Turkey Chase

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Mon, 09 Dec 2013 03:20:00 +0000

The problem with doing the blog once a month is that it is hard to remember what happened during the past 30 or so days. Let's see what we can recreate ...

On the sports side, Jack has been busy with flag football and swimming. He took a brief hiatus from basketball clinic for November but he is getting back at it now. Jack's eye hand coordination has been improving steadily and his catching is getting much better. He had a great football season which culminated today when his team tied another team of kindergarteners in the Super Bowl. Jack was named game MVP for his team after he rushed for two touchdowns and two extra points! He had a really great time this season. Swimming is coming along well as well and he is looking forward to the start of his basketball team in January.

Lily is still swimming twice weekly and has just finished up a session of tennis. She is giving gymnastics a go right now and is having a good time learning how to do cartwheels and other tricks. Lily's fall Girls on the Run session finished up in mid November when she and Marcy and her friends from school ran a 5k. The girls ran every Wednesday and Friday morning to build up to the 3 mile run and she was very proud of her accomplishment!

Every Wednesday are piano lessons and Jack and Lily have both learned holiday songs for Hanukkah and Christmas.

Earlier in the month Jack and I went to a Redskins' game against the Chargers and managed to see the home team win for one of the few times this season. We had a great time even though it was a bit chilly! The entire family also had a chance to go to Wizards' basketball game and saw the Wiz beat the Brooklyn Nets.

Around the sports and before Thanksgiving there were a lot of playdates and fun at school. The kids had pajama day and breakfast for lunch. In mid-November, Lily's regular teacher returned from maternity leave and normalcy returned to the classroom.

We had fun celebrating Thanksgiving with Grandma Gail, Grandpa Tom, Great Aunt Jenny, Great Uncle Carlton and Cousin Alex. Cousins Emilie and Stephanie came down for the weekend from New York and we had a great time cooking for Turkey Day and celebrating Hanukkah. All of us went to a Caps/Habs game so we had a family of divided rooting interests in the stands as our visitors were cheering on the visiting team. A majority of us went home happy as the Caps won in a shootout.

We wrapped up a great Hanukkah with lots of presents from Aunt Donna and Uncle Stephen and fun presents from Emilie and Stephanie and Grandma Phyllis and Grandpa Maurice. Once the holiday finished up, we had a few days to gear up for Jack's birthday. His party is not until next week but he got a bunch of fun presents from family this weekend- Skylanders and a Redskins Beanie Stuffed thing and Beyblades and a magic kit and games and Nerf guns. Fortunately, he has a week to get used to all his new stuff before his friends fete him at his indoor soccer/moonbounce party! For his birthday we went to a Japanese Steakhouse with Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom and Grandpa Maurice who came into town for the celebration.

That is about all of now ... pictures and lots of video below. Belated birthday wishes to Aunt Donna who celebrated her day earlier in November!

Ready to run!

Running.

Lily made a Picasso for school.

Jack, ready for bed.

We breaded some challah at Hebrew school. We tried to cook it but it did not come out all that well.

Working on the wishbone.

Decorating the tree.

Adding an ornament.

Playing some Connect 4.

Dancing.

Working on making charms from the kit from Emilie and Stephanie for Hanukah.

The finished project!

Jack built a dinosaur with Stephanie's help.

On Jack's birthday we went to the local shopping center where Darrell Young of the Redskins was signing autographs. Jack got to meet him and get a picture signed!

The family before the birthday dinner.

With Grandpa.

Getting ready for the show.

It was very snowy at the game.

A touchdown!

A long run.

Another run.

A second touchdown!

The team. One team member did not want to be in the picture ... so that is his back.

Getting his trophy -with his MVP medal around his neck!

Lily getting ready to go sledding in the wintery mix.

Keep the Car Running

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 04:11:00 +0000

October is in the books - here are some of the highlights.

Visits
We had a great visit with Aunt Donna, Uncle Stephen and Bubbie midway through the month. They came to visit on a Thursday night and spent all weekend with us. Unfortunately, it rained all weekend so our visitors did not get to see any of the kids various activities. That being said, we all had a great time visiting and enjoyed having everyone in town.

Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom continued their standard Tuesday visits and threw in a couple of other days here and there as needed. It is always good to see them each week.

Grandpa Maurice and Grandma Phyllis finished up their northern summer and headed back to Florida for the winter. Lily and Jack got to spend some quality time with them before they headed back south.

We also had a great visit from Aunt Tracy and cousin Casey. They were in town for ~~my birthday~~ Marcy's first (and she says last) marathon two weekends ago. Lily and Jack had a great time with Casey and are looking forward to her return visit with Garret in December.

School
Third grade and kindergarten continue to go well. Jack is learning a ton from Mrs. Lee and Lily is anxiously awaiting the return of her full time teacher from maternity leave. Lily is doing really well in math and art and she has made some great new friends this year. Jack is very busy in kindergarten and he seems to have figured out all of the important things - like the bus, how to buy lunch and how to check out books from the library.

Earlier in the month Jack was Star of the Week and it gave him a chance to tell all his classmates all about himself.

Sports
Jack finished up his fall baseball season and has started flag football and swimming. He is doing very well in both and is really starting to get the hang of swimming. Piano is going well and he enjoys the web games and other practice exercises.

Lily is continuing with swimming but has finished up lacrosse. Her running program is winding down and her first stab at basketball is going to start soon. She has also started tennis again and seems to be enjoying that as well.

Other Notes

Since our last post Lily has lost two teeth - both her silver ones. She has gotten much better about having them pulled out by Marcy when they are hanging on. Needless to say, the tooth fairy has been very generous with her.

Special birthday wishes to Aunt Donna whose big day is today!

At friend Brady's obstacle course birthday party.

Bobbing for apples.

At lacrosse.

With Henry the Hamster.

Getting a trim.

Star of the Week.

Up close.

A family game of Star Wars monopoly.

Some restaurant hang man with Uncle Stephen.

Playing piano.

Daisy hiding in Jack's bed.

Casey, Lily and Jack.

Early morning metro ride to the Marine Corp Marathon.

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In front of his initials.

Ready to cheer on Marcy.

Lily, Jack, Casey and Gail.

With Aunt Kelly.

Giving out high fives.

Finishing with the Washington Monument in the background.'

Completing a marathon can be checked off the list.

Kindergarten halloween ... can you pick out Jack.

Another ninja.

Helping prepare friend Charlie's mummy costume.

The neighborhood gang ready to trick or treat.

With friends about to head out to get more candy.

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Climbing rocks at Great Falls.

Checking out the scenery.

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At the Redskins' game.

'Cross the Green Mountain

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 03:01:00 +0000

After a summer of denial, the blog is moving to updates once per month. Posts will be uploaded on the last Monday of the month unless life otherwise interferes. We will try to reward your collective patience (if there are any readers left) with long and detailed posts with pictures and video. No promises.

September went by in a flash. We have been busy with activities, social obligations and school. On the activity side, here is a breakdown by little person -

Lily is swimming two days a week. She likes this year's group much better than last and is having a good time with all of her pool friends. She is taking piano again and has picked up right where she left off - less Beach Boys so far, more Beethoven. She is also playing lacrosse and is busy with Sunday school. This Friday marks her first Club Friday at the local community center where she and her friends will be busy with activities each week. Lily also just started participating in a girl-power running program two mornings a week call Girls on the Run. So far she seems to be enjoying it and by November, we will be running a 5k fun run together. Marcy is one of the coaches so it is a family affair!

Jack is busy as well. He is playing basketball and soccer one day a week and has baseball practice and games. He is also taking piano and he loves it. Once soccer and baseball wind down he will be starting swimming and flag football. He had a really good time playing flag football last year and is looking forward to getting out there again. Swimming should be fun as well since he has a bunch of friends who will be at the pool with him.

Lily is having a good third grade year so far. Unfortunately, her regular teacher is off right now on long term leave since she just had a baby. Her sub is ok but we are counting down the days to the return of her regular teacher. She has a good blend of existing friends and new kids in her class. She and Jack have lunch and recess at the same time so she has been able to keep a watchful eye on her little brother. Lily is reading up a storm and busy with her arts and crafts projects on the side. She is a rainbow loom bracelet maker and she loves to draw.

Jack has taken to kindergarten like a fish to water. He is in class with a couple of good friends and he is having a blast. He has a great teacher who really knows what she is doing with little students. Jack is learning the rules that govern life (keep your hands to yourself) and is becoming more and more independent (while remaining a Momma's boy). Jack in finally showing an interest in learning to read and he happily tackles homework. We have not had a single issue with Jack getting on the bus or being reluctant to go to school. He has even bought lunch in the cafeteria - something his sister did not tackle until first grade.

We have had regular weekly visits from Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom who continue to come over on Tuesdays to pick up the kids and keep track of them while Marcy and I are at work. Lily and Jack also got to spend an entire weekend with them while we were at a friend's wedding. Aunt Kelly and Bodie have also been over for visits and we have seen them at their new digs.

We have had visits from Grandpa Maurice and Grandma Phyllis. They have had the kids after school one day and have babysat on back to school night. Lily and Jack are getting used to having both sets of grandparents in town for now before the snowbirds officially depart again.

And last but not least, just this past weekend had a nice visit with Uncle Jon and Cousin Robyn and Matt. We had a very nice Saturday evening bbq with them and the kids had a great time showing off their rooms and the basement and playing with new toys. Just as with Uncle Jon's last visit, Lily managed to lose another tooth. This time, finally, one of her silver teeth came out so she is down to only one filled tooth! She was a trouper and the tooth fairy awarded a solid $3 for the fancy tooth.

During September we also celebrated the Jewish holidays - we went to synagogue a couple of times - and Lily's 9th birthday. It is hard to imagine that we have nine year old roaming in our midst. Between the holidays and some other travel, Lily's party got pushed back so it was a two week birthday celebration. We had a nice time on her birthday - sharing donuts with friends at the bus stop, eating homemade cupcakes and opening presents. Then the next night, Grandma Gail, Grandpa Tom and Aunt Kelly all came over for an early evening at Chuck E. Cheese. Then about 10 days after her birthday Lily had her party at an indoor rock climbing spot. It was sixteen girls, Jack, Marcy, me and Grandpa Maurice. She had a great time and all of the attendees got a ton of climbing done in two hours.

Here are some picture and video from the past month.

P.S. - belated blog birthday wishes to cousin Stephanie.

Jack and his buddy Charlie playing Just Dance.

Ready to go to synagogue.

Out to dinner while Marcy was away. After dinner we caught a showing of Despicable Me 2.

Opening presents on birthday morning. Here is the horse stable she got from Jack.

A rainbow loom storage kit from Aunt Tracy, Uncle Stan and cousins Casey and Garrett.

With Chuck on the second day of Lily's birthday celebration!

With Aunt Kelly and Marcy.

Opening presents with Grandma Gail.

During their weekend with Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom, Lily and Jack had lunch out with Aunt Kelly and the Obamas.

Jack at bat.

These were the amazing cupcakes for Lily's party made by our friend Bridget. The rock climbing theme was amazing and they tasted even better than they looked.

At the climbing center. It was a great party - the staff there works really well with kids.

Climbing on the lower levels.

...

A bit higher.

Lily at the top.

Jack get harnessed in.

Jack at the top.

Ready to go.

The whole gang.

Working on crafts with cousin Robyn.

Showing off rainbow loom bracelets with Uncle Jon.

Reading a book with Matt.

My Old School

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 27 Aug 2013 02:38:00 +0000

Summer is over and the dynamic duo are back in school as of today. Shortly after school starts, all of our fall activities will begin again and we will be back to our normal very busy life! Before we talk about the first day of school, let's revisit where we have been the past month.

Since our last post, we have driven up to Montreal to visit our eastern-most Canadian family. This trip was by way of New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts. In Connecticut we visited Dinosaur State Park and saw some very large dino footprints. In Massachusetts, we got visit our friends John, Michelle, Hayley and Cole - they have had a many appearances on the blog and are still our good friends despite the fact that have moved so far away from us. The kids had a good time catching up and it is always nice to see old friends.

After visiting Massachusetts, we continued north for the kids annual visit to Montreal. We had a chance for a quick visit with Aunt Donna, Uncle Stephen and Bubbie before we turned around and headed home, leaving Lily and Jack behind. The kids had a great couple of days in Montreal - they visited a Dale Chihuly exhibit and the botanical gardens among other spots. After a few days in the city, Lily and Jack and Donna and Stephen headed down to Lake George and spent a few days there. While in Lake George they swam and played at the hotel and visited an amusement park. They had a great time during the week.

The next weekend we met the whole gang in New York City where we visited with Cousins Emilie and Stephanie. We all went to see Annie on Broadway (courtesy of last year's Hannukah gift) and we had some fun meals at a singing diner and a restaurant in Bryant Park. No trip to New York is complete without a trip to the M&M store in Time's Square. After New York, we headed home on the train.

After a quick Monday at home, the kids headed over the Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom's for a quick visit to the Lake. Lily and Jack continued with their water skiing and knee boarding and a great time swimming under the floating dock.

Lily and Jack came back on Thursday and had chance to visit with Aunt Tracy and Garrett who were in town for YG's (Marcy's Grandmother) memorial service. We also had a chance to visit with many of Marcy's cousins and with all of Grandpa Tom's siblings.

After the quick family visit with Marcy's family, we headed off to the beach for three days. We had a couple of nice days at the ocean and had fun playing mini golf and riding rides and playing game on the Boardwalk. We came home from the beach and the kids finished out the week relaxing and having some play dates. They also had a nice visit with Grandpa Maurice and Grandma Phyllis who are back in town for the summer.

After a nice quiet weekend, school kicked off today! Lily and Jack are finally in the same place and both had a great first day of school. Both are in classes with some friends of theirs and were excited to get on the bus this morning. It is hard to believe that we have a third grader and a kindergartener!

All dressed up for Broadway.

With the Blue M&M.

In front of the Annie sign.

On the carousel at Bryant Park.

Jack riding a horse.

On the train home.

Sarah, Leah, Collin, Lily and Jack.

Grandpa Tom's side of the family.

In the sand.

At mini golf.

At Ocean City staple Candy Kitchen.

Getting this summer's hair wrap.

On a ride.

On the bumper cars.

Riding a wave.

In action.

Lily's turn.

Walking the mean streets of Rehobeth Beach.

In front of the blue moon.

...

Jack got his own boogie board.

Relaxing in the sun. That would be Jack in the background with arms raised!

Ready for school.

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...

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The whole bus stop gang.

On the bus ... and so it goes.

Back On Line

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 02:03:00 +0000

We are at the halfway point of a very busy summer. The goal is to get back to regular posting once we finish up with the summer. Since we last reported in, camp season has come and gone and swim season has wrapped up. We had great visits with family and spent a lot of time at our neighborhood pool meeting new people and making great friends.

Both Lily and Jack have been at three different camps and have had a great time at all three. They have had play dates with new and old friends and have had a great summer. Let's review the pics and video...

Enjoying crabs - and picking them all by herself - on father's day.

Lily's duet with her piano teacher. She did a great job learning her material.

Surfin' Safari - the final product.

Showing off her certificate of achievement from her piano recital.

Post performance flowers.

Ready for camp with neighbor friend Noah on crazy hair day.

Jack and his friends ready to swim.

Jack and his friend Charlie enjoying some breakfast at another Saturday morning swim meet. Jack was a trouper all summer long.

Every year we spend the 4th of July week at the lake with Marcy's side of the family. This year was great as we got to spend time with Grandma Gail, Grandpa Tom, Aunt Tracy, Uncle Stan, Cousins Garrett and Case, Aunt Kelly and Cousins Alli and Davis and dogs Rimsky and Bodie. It was a very nice week (despite the first real rain we ever have had there) and the days just flew by.

Making smores with Casey.

Playing with sparklers.

Passing some rainy day time with Davis.

All flag coordinated for the 4th.

Everyone ... Jack is trying to sneak in some lippy.

Jack looks really big in this picture.

Lily really got her waterskiing skills down this year. She did great.

Jack got in on the act this year as well.

Towards the end of the summer, Jack swam in his first swim meet. Just before the meet started, Jack was sitting on the pool deck looking very pensive.

Ready for action.

His swim - he did great and he had a really fun time. He will be ready for next summer!

Lily swimming at the same meet. She has improved by leaps and bounds this summer.

The swim season closes out with a shaving cream battle. Here is Jack all covered.

And Lily.

Synchronized diving.

Or not.

Jack officially graduating from the little kid swim team.

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Jack and Charlie.

Breathing ...

Lily did the same kids triathlon this year as she did last year. She had a great time - here she is leaving the pool and headed to her bike.

On her bike.

Finishing the bike.

Completing the run.

Lily finished out the season swimming freestyle in all star relays. She swam the fourth leg here - her team came in fourth.

The relay team.

Jack spent a week at baseball camp and some Nationals' players came to visit. Taylor Jordan signed Jack's arm.

At the Nat's game with William Howard Taft.

Oh ... have to include the foul ball I caught for posterity sake!

After the game, the kids got to run the bases ... here they are aftewards.

Lily and her pal Maddie from our old neighborhood. have been in camp together the past two weeks.

Summer is not over yet so we will have more postings to come. School is but four weeks away ... and Lily will officially be unable to get away from her brother as they will finally be in the same school!

In closing, special birthday wishes this week go out to Cousin Emilie and Grandma Phyllis.

That Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 03:12:00 +0000

We have a lot to catch up on since our last posting ...

Jack has graduated from pre-school. He is taking his passage in stride and does not seem to miss going to school every day. He has moved onto summer camp and his having a great time every day. Needless to say, he is sleeping well at night.

On the Sunday after school ended, Jack, Grandpa Maurice and I went to see the Nationals' game. Despite it being an later start (with a little bit of rain), we all had a great time. The Nats won and due to our fantastic seats, Jack even scored a ball from the ball boy!

Lily finished up school with an art show that was a smashing success. Pictures of her clay flowers are below. She had a great year in school and was a fantastic student!

Summer swim season has started off with a bang. Lily competed in her first B meet of the season last Wednesday and walked away with her first placing ribbons (finishes that resulted in ribbons other than participatory ones). She came in second in breast stroke and freestyle and fourth in backstroke. Her swimming was fast enough to qualify for the A meet - her first ever. The A meets are much more serious - points are awarded and the pools really compete against one another. Unfortunately, our pool lost its first meet in 2 years but it was close and against a very good pool. Lily swam great. She finished seventh of eleven in freestyle and improved her time by .76 seconds. In breast stroke, she placed fourth, earning points for her team and improving her best time by 2.14 seconds. It has been a great start to the season!

Jack is swimming with the Little Devils and we hope that he will be ready for a meet by the end of the season.

That is all for now. Here are the pictures and the video.

P.S. - Congrats to Aunt Kelly and Bodie who just bought a new house to move into!

Last day of Brownies.

The graduate.

Diploma time!

After graduation.

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Art show.

Before the Nats' game.

With George Washington.

And Abraham Lincoln.

Ready to swim.

Cheering with the team during the break at the meet.

Jack and his friend Charlie.

Breast stroke.

Jack and his obligatory swim meet donut.

After the swim meet, Lily's friend Georgia slept over. The next morning they put on a puppet show.

Surfin' Safari

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 03:12:00 +0000

Let's catch up on the last two weeks since our last post.

We had a nice Memorial Day weekend down at the lake with Grandma Gail, Grandpa Tom and Aunt Kelly. Rimsky and Bodie the dogs were along as well. The water was chilly but that did not keep Lily and Jack from jumping in and wanting to ride all of the various floats. Jack was busy catching fish and Lily had a nice time reading on the dock. It was a very relaxing weekend.

We have been spending a lot of time at the pool already this season and have had a nice time with old friends and making new ones. Lily and Jack both know a bunch of kids and are both on the various swim teams (Jack is swimming with the Little Devils).

T-ball and lacrosse have wrapped up in the past few weeks. Soccer is coming to a close in the next few days and piano is headed towards a recital at the latter part of June. Jack's pre-school comes to an end this week and Lily finishes up next week. Then it is head first into a summer of camps and travel. Things are always busy here!

Happy Birthday wishes this week to Aunt Kelly whose birthday is this Wednesday!

Here are the pics from the past two weeks. If you want to see more of Jack's concert from two weeks ago, the videos are here, here and here.

Ready to go down the slide.

All dressed up for a Sea Doo ride.

Paddle boating with Grandma Gail.

Ready to go.

A hot dog ride with sweatshirts on.

Jack was very busy catching fish with a net.

Stand up paddle boarding with Aunt Kelly.

Jack is in the water and I am wearing a fleece.

Fishing off the pontoon.

For a school project, Lily had to dress up as Rosa Parks.

Practicing piano. Can you name that tune?

Jack and friends at his last day of soccer.

Have You Seen Me Lately

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 21 May 2013 02:41:00 +0000

Intermittent posting ... we will try to be more consistent but time will tell.

We had some endings this week ... Lily finished up her first year at Hebrew School and lacrosse. She is still busy with piano - she has a recital coming up soon and soccer. Jack had his last pre-school field trip and last school soccer practice and he is down to three weeks left at his school. He is very excited about kindergarten in a few short months.

Since our last post we celebrated Grandma Gail's birthday, Marcy's actual birthday and Mother's Day. We had more visits with Aunt Tracy, Uncle Stan and Garrett and Casey before they headed back to Colorado. Aunt Kelly came over to babysit and Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom adopted a new Siberian Husky pup named Rimsky.

We also had Jack's spring show where he and his classmates sang all the songs they learned since September. There is some video below.

Anyway, here are the pictures from the past two weeks.

At the show.

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One of the songs.

Opening Mother's day cards.

Cousin time.

In their fort.

With Daisy.

Keeping busy.

Practicing piano.

Playing lacrosse.

Life Begins at 40

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Wed, 08 May 2013 02:45:00 +0000

Posting has been on hiatus recently as we have been super busy around here. Between kids activities, family events, finishing the renovation project and jobs and school we have not had as much time to blog as we would like. So let's catch up ...

Lily is finishing up lacrosse season, piano lessons are winding down and soccer season is coming to a close. Jack is finishing up t-ball and soccer and getting ready for summer camp as the spring winds down - he has only four weeks left of pre-school.

This past weekend we had a birthday party for Marcy who is turning 39 again. We had great visits from lots of friends and family who came over to celebrate with us. Aunt Tracy, Uncle Stan and cousins Casey and Garrett came into town for a visit. Aunt Kelly has moved back east after a spring working remotely from Colorado. Aunt Donna and Uncle Stephen came in from Montreal and cousins Emilie and Stephanie came down for a visit from New York. We also had friends come from Delaware and Pennsylvania and southern Virginia come over.

In addition to Marcy's birthday, it is also Grandma Gail's birthday this week so special birthday wishes to her this week. It was also Casey's birthday last week so we need to wish her a happy birthday as well!

There are lots of pictures to go through so check back tomorrow night for all of the week's photos and videos.

Before the party, there was soccer.

And t-ball.

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...

...

Casey and Jack with Grandma Gail.

Garrett being cute.

Chatting during the party.

Marcy, Kelly and Marcy's friend Angel.

Lily with Steve the Magician.

Lily assisting the magician Steve who provided entertainment during the grownup dinner.

Chatting with friends.

Cake time.

Cleaning up.

Three sisters.

Lily and Jack with Aunt Donna.

Emilie and Jack.

Jack and Grandpa Tom shooting some hoops.

With Uncle Stan.

Lily, Garrett and Stephanie.

Garrett playing skeeball.

Carry That Weight

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:55:00 +0000

We have been really busy the past couple of weeks and our blogging schedules have been thrown off by our home renovation project as we have had more dinners out and some later than anticipated nights. Also, after 8+ years we are getting a bit lazy with the camera and the kids are not as cute as they used to be - kidding!

Things should be back to normal in a couple of weeks and maybe this blogcation will re-inspire us for more consistent future postings. That being said, I can see the schedule cutting back to once every other week rather than weekly. We will have to see. Maybe we will just transition over to a Lily and Jack Twitter feed as blogging is so passe' now.

Anyway, things have been busy around here with soccer & tennis (for both kids), lacrosse (Lily), tee-ball (Jack), Brownies (Lily) and a host of birthday parties and play dates. These kids have full days and sleep well at night!

Jack had his kindergarten orientation last week (which he really enjoyed). He can't wait until school starts next year. Lily is just finishing up her first long range project - she had three weeks to build a caterpillar from scratch. She has done a great job and has really managed her time well along the way - there has been only minimal parental involvement (cutting toothpicks in half).

The house project (which started in mid-February) is almost through which is a good thing since we (all of us) are done with it! It has been an intense slog but it has come together really well. Once the floors are dry on Thursday we will have a brand new kitchen and eating area, a new powder room and a sun room that has been converted into a pantry, mud room area and kid's study. The kids have a room of their own to study in with two desks and space for a computer. They are both excited to have a work space off the kitchen and Marcy and I are excited to have a place to put all their stuff!

Since our last posting, Jack has adopted a new pet - a hamster named Henry. Henry even went to school today! Henry is very busy and seems to have adapted to his new home ... he is nocturnal though so he gets very busy after Jack goes to bed and often has to be moved out at night.

Lastly, before the limited pictures we have, we would all like to wish Uncle Stephen a very happy birthday. He is celebrating today so these are very timely birthday wishes.

Jack loves tee ball. Here he is playing first base. He made a great play in the field this weekend.

Getting ready to hit.

Running the bases.

On base.

Lunch after soccer and tee ball.

Lily drew the unicorn on the right free hand yesterday.

Our friends Julie and Paul stopped by - they used to be our neighbors but decamped to Vermont - and this is a shot of Lily and Jack with Bea and Charlotte.

Begin West Movement

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 02:59:00 +0000

Many weeks since our last post. During the void we had a great trip to Colorado for Spring Break and have been busy around here. I was a bit under the weather last week and then the days just started getting away from me.

Colorado was lots of fun and the kids had a great time visiting with their cousins and friends Brooke and Anderson. We had a nice time with Tracy, Stan, Case and Garrett. We had the bonus of Aunt Kelly and Bodie being in Colorado as well. To top it off, our friends Mark and Kristen (along with Brooke and Anderson) are in Colorado for two years so we were able to spend some quality time with them as well.

We were able to ski at Keystone (twice), Breckenridge and Vail. We also had a chance to go sledding and tubing. We had lots to eat (thank to Tracy, Marcy and Kristen) and lots of fresh air.

We came back to warming temperatures and an almost complete home reno project. It was back to school for Jack on Tuesday and Lily on Wednesday. In between our return and school they had dentist appointments, visits with Grandpa Maurice and Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom. Lily is full into lacrosse and soccer and Jack started up tee ball.

Here are some pictures and videos from the last few weeks ... There are a lot more pics and videos so we may have a part two at some point.

Clowning around.

All smiles.

The three cousins.

Serving time ... Jack is really into flashing the peace signs. It his is Nixon phase.

Skiing.

Lily, Brooke, Anderson & Jack.

A very studious group.

Working on a trap for big foot.

Tubing.

Easter eggs.

Lil loved spending time with Garrett.

Eggs with your cinnamon roll?

Easter goodies.

Lily at her lacrosse game.

Action shot.

All This Time

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 02:36:00 +0000

A quiet week around here as we gear up for our Spring Break trip to Colorado. We are looking forward to visiting with Aunt Tracy, Uncle Stan, Cousins Casey and Garrett and Aunt Kelly who will be out there as well. Hopefully, we will have some good skiing as well.

Lily had her first lacrosse practice this week and one of her last swim practices of the season. She is well on her way into spring sports. Jack is getting ready for t-ball which starts in a few weeks.

Over the weekend Lily had her friend Marley's birthday party and had time playing with friends. Jack also had some spontaneous playtime with neighborhood friends and got to go to his first Cap's game which they won 5-3. It was an exciting game and Jack had a great time - he got see an Olympic gold medalist while we were waiting for the elevator and sat next to astronaut during the game.

Here are the pictures from the week.

Lily showing off a timeline of her life that she made as a school project.

Jack?

Jack ...

Eating some matzah at the sedar after school on Sunday.

At his first Caps game.

With Meatloaf, her new American Girl Doll pet.

Swimming Pool

noreply@blogger.com (Marcy) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 02:40:00 +0000

Lily has essentially recovered from her eye injury - it was pretty bad Monday and Tuesday but the swelling went down by Wednesday and the bruise is essentially gone. Lily seems no worse for the wear and is excited to go skiing in Colorado in a few weeks.

On Tuesday, Mom and the kids went to the Churchill vs Quince Orchard high school basketball game, it was either Districts or Regionals (?) - unfortunately Churchill lost. The kids did get to see Gheorge Muresan (formerly of the Washington Bullets) for the second time since they also saw him at the Wizards game. (Dad fled to Arizona in anticipation of Snowquester and left us to fend for ourselves through the torrential snowstorm.)

Wednesday brought Snowquester and we were ready for 10-16 inches but the storm ended up as a complete bust at least for us. School was cancelled, work was cancelled, and while it did snow there was little to no accumulation because it was so wet and heavy - by the afternoon it was rainy and slushy. The kids ended up building forts inside instead of snow forts!

Thursday it was back to school and work.

We had a gorgeous weekend and the kids spent lots of time outside riding bikes/scooters, playing on the playground, and hanging with neighborhood kids.

Lily also wrapped the swim season with her 'Mini Champs' meet - thanks for coming to watch Grandma Gail.

Overall she had a good season, improving a half second in 25 free and 4 seconds in 50 free. She has a few more weeks of just practice (cutting down to just once a week) and then she may take off a few weeks before the summer season begins - she is excited for summer swim team!

Lacrosse practice starts this week for Lily, and soccer starts for Jack at his school. He is actually playing in two leagues, one thru school and one with his future kindergarten classmates (which starts after spring break).

Hope everyone has a good week! Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Lily's eye on the mend.

With Grandma Gail at the swim meet.

On the block.

Some freestyle.

Being a clown at the yogurt store.

Black Eyes, Blue Tears

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 02:42:00 +0000

Not much new to report this week. Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom had an extended visit on Tuesday night as they watched Lily and Jack while Marcy and I went to the Caps game. On Wednesday, Grandpa Maurice came into town and we had a nice visit.

On Saturday we headed up to Whitetail to go skiing for the day and to allow the kids to get their mountain legs back before our annual Colorado trip. All went well until Lily was taken out a by a rookie snowboarder. She and I were stopped waiting for Jack who had fallen down when a guy kind of lost control and took her out. Unfortunately, as she was falling, his board came up and clipped her in the eye right above her goggles and below her helmet. As you can see below, it left a temporary mark. She is on the mend now but it was very good fortune that she was wearing goggles and a helmet.

On Sunday, Jack and I went downtown with Grandpa Maurice and had a nice lunch. Lily was in Sunday school and then the two of us when to the Lady Terps basketball game. After the game, we had a quick dinner out and everyone came home for an early bedtime.

Special 40th birthday wishes to Uncle Stan today.

Not too many pics but there are a few videos below.

Lily and Jack skiing.

Jack skiing ... and falling.

Lily's shiner.

After the fall.

Jack coming through the mini-tunnel.

In serious conversation with Grandpa Maurice.

Oceans & Streams

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 02:42:00 +0000

We are back after a two week hiatus. We had a busy time away from the blog and are now back into the swing of things.

Lily and Jack both had nice Valentine's Day celebrations at their schools and had fun trading cards with their friends. On Friday, Marcy, Lily and Jack headed down to Florida to join me there for the long weekend. We had a nice time visiting with Grandpa Maurice and Grandma Phyllis during the weekend and we had the great bonus of seeing Great Uncle Simon, Great Aunt Ruby and Cousins Lisa, Kevin, Adam, Matthew and Samara. Lily and Jack had a lot of fun hanging out with their older cousins.

While in Florida we had some time at the beach, some time at the pool and we visited Parrot Jungle Island in Miami with Grandpa Maurice. Despite the colder than anticipated weather, everyone had a great time.

Lily and Jack came back to finish off the week of school and also had their usual swimming and piano regimens. On Friday, Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom came over and took the kids bowling in the afternoon (it was a half day of school). On Saturday, we ran some errands in the morning and then we headed downtown during the evening to go the Wizards' basketball game. We had some great seats and the kids had a great time. On Sunday, Lily had Hebrew school in the morning and Jack and I picked her up and headed to the Purim Carnival. After a visit to the Carnival the kids were off to swim lessons and then Lily had her friend Sofia's birthday party. To close out the weekend our friends Sarah and Derek and little Adam stopped by for a quick visit as they were in the neighborhood.

Here is the photo recap pictures ...

Reviewing V-Day goodies from Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom.

At Parrot Jungle Island.

Checking out the tortoises.

Feeding goats.

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Riding a camel ...

... not so comfortable.

Monkeying around.

With Grandpa Maurice.

Warming up in the hot tub with Adam, Matthew and Samara.

At sunset.

On the beach.

Digging.

Before the game at our seats.

After the game with some very extra large t-shirts!

Basket Case

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 12:58:00 +0000

Not much new to report on this end. Another week with few pictures but here is what happened.

We had our regular Tuesday visit with Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom.
Lily had swimming and piano lessons.
Jack had ice skating but was a bit under the weather on Saturday so he missed his last basketball session. He made a quick 24 hour recovery and was all better by Sunday. Special thanks to Aunt Kelly (and Bodie) who bailed us out on Saturday afternoon and watched Jack while we had to go out.
Lily had a friend's birthday party on Saturday and both kids had swimming on Sunday.

A better post in two weeks when we get back from a short trip to Florida. In the interim, we all want to wish a special a happy birthday wish to Bubbie whose birthday is on Valentine's Day.

Our new basketball hoop. We swapped out the old one since it was not adjustable and it was hard for the kids to shoot at that height.

This should provide many hours of fun over the years.

Taking a walk, deep in conversation.

Swimming Pool

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:40:00 +0000

A very busy week around here again and very few pictures to show for it!

Here is the rundown ...

Lily had her weekly piano lesson and she improved a lot from the previous week. She seems to be remembering more from before and amazing what a difference some practice makes. Lily also had her regular swim practice and a Saturday and Sunday meet.

Jack had his ice skating lessons and basketball. Basketball is almost over and we will take a break from Saturday morning activities until tee-ball starts. Ice skating will probably continue and he will move up to the hockey skates class.

On Friday, Jack had a play date with his friend Beckett and Lily had her friend Alexa over. Everyone had a good time.

On Saturday, it was a swim meet and then a few errands before a relaxing night at home. On Sunday, it was day two of the swim meet (Jack and I skipped the second session) and Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom came to watch. After the swim meet we had lunch out and then headed over to our neighbors house for a Super Bowl viewing party. Everyone had a great time.

That is all for now. Here are some pictures and videos from the pool.

Jack keeping busy at the pool.

Lily on the blocks. Her face is cut in half by the rope but you get the idea of how many kids are there.

Few and Far Between

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 13:44:00 +0000

Not much to report this week. Another busy week of school, swimming, basketball, ice skating and Hebrew School. We had our weekly visit with Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom. Aunt Kelly and Bodie lived here for a week, sort of and we had a bit snow. Other than that, not much to report.

On Friday night we had movie night - Ice Age 4. Saturday was busy with play dates in the neighborhood and Jack had his friend Nate's birthday party. On Sunday, both Lily and Jack had Sunday school and Marcy and I were the week's parent volunteers. We capped off the weekend with swim lessons and then a visit to Aunt Kelly and Bodie's temporary new digs. We had a nice dinner with Grandma Gail, Grandpa Tom and Aunt Kelly downtown and then we came home for a good night's sleep.

Best wishes to Grandma Gail for speedy recovery from her bout with the flu.

We have no real pics from the week but here is what we have.

Jack at his birthday party. It was an "under the sea" theme.

Lily playing with her Disney characters. I kind of snuck up her on to get this shot.

Maybe we will do better next week ...

The Civil Wars

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 03:54:00 +0000

It was a long weekend around ... hence the Tuesday post. Rather that sit around a stare at the walls all weekend, we decided to get out of town.

So on Saturday, after Jack's basketball, we headed up to Gettysburg, PA to see the battlefield. The kids interest ebbed and flowed but we did the auto tour and the kids worked on the Junior Ranger book. By completing a few games and answering some questions they could earn a badge from the Park Rangers. After doing the tour, we headed up to Carlisle, PA to show the kids where Marcy and I went to school. We had dinner at the restaurant we had our first date at and then ate breakfast at one of our old favorites. After breakfast, we headed back to Gettysburg to finish the Ranger program. The kids got their badges and then we headed home.

Lily and Jack headed off to their Sunday afternoon swim lessons and then it was home for some quality time watching football. On Monday we hung around the house and then went ice skating. Jack has been taking lessons and he is really coming along. At night Aunt Kelly babysat while Marcy and I went to a movie. The kids had a good time with Kelly and they were passed out when we got home. Jack was back at school today but Lily was home for one more day. It was freezing cold outside so she and Marcy got a lot of stuff done around the house.

That is all for now.

Here are some pictures.

On an observation deck at the battlefield.

Jack with a re-enactor on Little Round Top.

At the ol' alma mater.

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We ran into neighbors Michael and Izzy at the ice skating rink.

Lounging around watching the inauguration. Four years ago we had the same picture ... time flies.

Brothers & Sisters

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 03:30:00 +0000

A regular week in the books.

Lily had school and swimming and play dates with her friends. Jack had basketball, swimming and his new ice skating lessons kicked off.

We had our regular Tuesday visit from Grandma Gail and Grandpa Maurice was in town this week. We had a chance to see him on Wednesday and Friday. On Sunday, Jack and I gave him a ride to the airport so he could get back to the warmth of Florida.

We had a relatively quiet weekend. The warm weather that was supposed to be here never really materialized but the kids had some time to play outside. On Saturday night we had a nice evening with our neighbors. Sunday was a pretty quiet day around the house.

Sorry, no pics of Lily this week.

Jack sporting Cousin Steph's hockey team's colors.

Jack at basketball.

Back On Line

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 03:49:00 +0000

It has been a long time since our last post ... this may be our longest time in between posts ever. A lot has happened since December 18th.

We had a nice visit with Casey, Garrett, Tracy and Stan the week before Christmas. We celebrated Christmas at Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom's house with Aunt Kelly, Great Uncle Mike, Great Aunt Jeannie and Cousins Alli and Davis. We also visited with Great Aunt Jenny, Great Uncle Carlton and Cousins Valeria, Liam and Alex. The kids had a great holiday season and between Hannukah and Christmas they collected a lot of loot. Santa brought the kids the skateboards they asked for and we got them a Wii. Due to the weather, the Wii has been a bigger hit than the skateboards.

After Christmas, we headed down to Florida for our annual visit. We spent a bit of time with Cousin Steph before she went back to New York and then spent the week with Bubbie, Great Aunt Donna and Great Uncle Stephen. While in Florida, the kids did three mornings of golf camp and spent lots of time at the pool. We also spent a day at the beach with Grandpa Maurice and then visited with Grandma Phyllis. We also had a chance to have dinner with Great Uncle Jerry, Great Aunt Eve and Cousins Derek and Graeme who were in Florida for a visit.

After a rockin' New Years' Eve (Lily and I made it to midnight) - Marcy went to bed first, followed by Jack who almost made to midnight - we flew home for a school day and back to the regular schedule. Lily and Jack have been back to swimming and other activities and all has returned to regularly scheduled programming. It was a great three weeks!

Here are some pics ...

Lily, Jack, Casey & Garrett on the way to the bus stop. Lily was very excited to have her cousins at the bus stop!

At the Native American Museum.

At Air & Space.

Checking out the telescope.

With Santa.

Garrett got a new chair for Christmas and he liked it a lot.

Opening presents before Casey and Garrett headed off to visit with Uncle Stan's family.

Pirate presents with Grandma Gail.

Checking out stockings and new skateboards on Christmas morning. Check out the new pjs.

Opening presents with Aunt Kelly.

Playing the Wii.

A little football with Cousin Davis.

FLORIDA ...

At the beach.

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Lily dug a big hole.

Jack showing off his ribs.

With Grandpa Maurice.

Jack and I dressed alike one day.

At golf camp.

Ready to go.

Playing games with Uncle Stephen.

Ready for 2013.

New Year's Eve with Bubbie.

Heading home.

After this weekend's swim meet.

Bright Lights

noreply@blogger.com (Marcy) — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 03:55:00 +0000

We had a nice week celebrating Hanukah - thanks to Donna and Stephen for sending presents to open every night! Also Lily and Jack were very excited to find out that cousins Emilie and Stephanie are treating them to Annie on Broadway this summer!

We had a relatively quiet weekend (for once). Jack started basketball and according to him he made every basket he shot! ;) Saturday night we went to dinner in Fredrick and then saw the Christmas lights in Seneca Creek State Park. On Sunday, Jack had a pirate birthday party for his friend Oliver.

Tracy, Stan, Casey and Garrett arrived on Monday and stayed with us both Monday and Tuesday night before heading to Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom's.

Enjoy the pics!

Working on shrinky dinks.

Very serious.

...

Finished project.

Street hockey with neighbor Michael.

Lights.

Checking out the lights through the sunroof.

Take Five

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 03:55:00 +0000

This is a milestone post ... number 450! We have lots to share with you from this past week.

The big event of the week was the celebration of Jack's fifth birthday! It is hard to believe that Jack is already five. Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom skipped their weekly visit this past week as they were out in Colorado spending quality time with Casey and Garrett and Tracy and Stan. They returned in time for Jack's party on Saturday though.

On Friday, Jack got up nice and early so that he and Marcy could go get doughnuts for his class snack. Before school he opened presents that were already in hand (lots of awesome sport stuff). Then he had a great morning at school with his friends. In the afternoon he headed off to the doctor for his annual check up. All was well at the doctor and we all headed out to dinner with Grandpa Maurice who was in town for the birthday celebrations. As a surprise for Jack, after dinner we went to Build-a-Bear where he got to make his very own teddy bear. It was his first visit there but Lily showed him the ropes as she has many Build-a-Bear creations.

On Saturday, we were up nice and early for the last week of flag football. Jack had a good time with his teammates and collected his first trophy. After a quick lunch at home it was time for Jack's party at BounceU a local moon bounce spot. Jack and all his friends had a great time bouncing around. Even Marcy and certain grandparents got involved (pictures below). After the party, we came home and Jack got to open all of his gifts. Needless to say, he did very well! Then it was off to dinner and by the time the kids were home, they were ready for bed.

On Sunday, they were both off to Hebrew school and then swim lessons and then Jack had a birthday party for his friend Becket. We capped off a busy weekend with movie night.

Here are some pictures.

Looking at a new Star Wars book with Lily.

With his new street hockey sticks from Aunt Donna and Uncle Stephen who also sent along balls and pucks. Cousin Em provided nets so Jack is all set.

Football time.

Getting his trophies from his coaches.

At the party.

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In the wind tunnel machine.

Cake time.

Ice cream Power Ranger cake.

Marcy accidentally bought trick candles that re-lit. Jack could not blow out and it was quite funny!

The gang.

Trying on his Transformers' mask from Aunt Kelly who joined us for dinner.

Racing cars with Grandpa Tom.

A quiet moment at dinner.

Life in the Fast Lane

noreply@blogger.com (Stuart) — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 02:45:00 +0000

So it was back to school after a nice Thanksgiving holiday. It was Lily and Jack's first full week at school in a while!

We had our regular weekly visit from Grandma Gail and Grandpa Tom and there was plenty of swimming and homework to tackle. The week led up to an BUSY weekend.

On Friday night we had movie night - pizza and Madagascar 3.

On Saturday, Lily was picked up at 6:30 a.m. for day one of her two day swim meet. Marcy headed out about an hour later to cheer her on and Jack and I got ready for flag football. It was very cold but Jack had a great time playing on the local high school's artificial turf field. After football, Jack and I ran a couple of errands and got home just in time to see Lily and Marcy off to a weekend Brownie's activity. Jack then headed off for a play date with his friend Beckett. After the play date, Jack and Marcy picked up Cousin Emilie who was in town and came by for a visit. We all went to dinner and then Emilie watched the kids so Marcy and I could go to a movie.

On Sunday, it started all over again! More swim meet - Emilie tagged along to a very hot pool. Then it was home for lunch before heading out to swim lessons. Jack is taking swim lessons on Sunday afternoon and Lily is doing a clinic at the same time so we had a bit more time at the natatorium! After swimming, Lily headed home with Marcy, Emilie was off the train and Jack and I headed out to the bowling ally for neighborhood buddy Noah's birthday party. Jack had a great time bowling, eating pizza and cake. Then it was off to Chuck E. Cheese's for school friend Hailey's birthday party. Then it was time to go to home and go to bed!

Another crazy weekend in the books. It should calm down this weekend - the end of football (although basketball starts the next week), a little more swimming and ... oh, that's right, Jack turns 5!

Here are some pictures and video.

Consulting with Marcy.

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Getting some instruction from Coach Jen.

Back stroke. Lily's times in back and breast strokes are getting much faster.

A really bad bowling picture.

Games at Chuck E. Cheese.

Eating some cake.