Puffer and the Baby Fish

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens Cherry Blossom Festival

2013-05-09T13:46:00.004-04:00

Every spring the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens celebrates the Cherry Blossom Festival with an enormous Japanese Festival, planned for the peak of the blossoms. It's an amazing celebration, but also an incredibly expensive one at $20/person.

I don't know about you, but I'm not one to shell out $80 for a family of four to see....a garden. Yes, a magnificent garden, but for $80, I'll pass.

Here's a secret:

It's FREE on Tuesdays!

That's right, all day on Tuesdays the entrance to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens is free for everyone.

Since we choose to skip the extravagant (overpriced) festival, I opted to take the twins to see the Cherry Blossoms--for free--before the blooms were gone.

We were not disappointed. The weather was perfect and I knew it was going to be a great day when the boys helped me back a lunch, pick out their clothes and get dressed. These are no small feats before 9am with 3-year-old twin boys who prefer to go without clothes for the majority of the day!

Digging in the dirt. They could've done it for hours. Sticks + patch of dirt = babysitter.

A friend, who happens to be part of a future nomadic family herself (they launch for Central America this July), joined me. Check out her journey at Witness Humanity. Jenni is a nanny and her three munchkins and my boys had a blast running through the trees and digging in the dirt.

What a beautiful morning.

One way to fit in some cardio--CHASE!

So...this is what I look like relaxed with just one small baby. I like it. But no more!

My main squeezes

Do I see more Brooklyn Botanical Garden playdates in the future?
With this amazing weather and the free admission...why not?

Yes, Girls Can Do Push Ups

2013-05-08T14:56:00.003-04:00

In regards to my previous post, thanks for the comments and suggestions both public and private you posted. The support is appreciated and it did help me.
I wish so much crazy wasn't woven deep into the fabric of "me" but it is and I just have to keep moving forward and do the best I can.

The healthiest thing I've done is to let go.
Meditating the negative past away in a burst of air--although it may have been something like a bursting fiery flame released from the dragon's mouth that made me feel better. Burn, baby, burn.
I know, that doesn't sound terribly forgiving or a very healthy way to go about it, but imagining fire engulfing certain "events" in my life makes me feel better. It works.

Other things work, too.
Working out works.
Running, biking, pumping. Letting those good endorphins wash over me. It's been something I have let go since getting pregnant and finally almost 4 years later, I'm back in the gym and getting serious about my fitness future.

This past month and 1/2 I've gone back to a weekly yoga routine, biking, lifting, and swimming. I'm not the best swimmer but I love it and the fact that I get to swim laps with Julia Stiles really helps me to get motivated. She, by the way, is an awesome swimmer with a rocking body. I fully admit that I can't help but stare when she gets out of the pool and walks away. In the hopes of seeing Julia nekkid I always think "Hey, maybe I should go take a shower now!" But that's seems too lesbian stalkerish of me. So, I keep on swimming.

The yoga practice is by far the most rewarding--even if I'm surrounded by grandmothers instead of movie stars. You don't get too many young people or uh, even people my age taking yoga classes mid-mornings. Naturally, when you are doing poses next to an 80-year-old you feel pretty awesome about your practice. I highly recommend it.

Today, I saw my friend at Our Spirited Life posting about a 100# push up challenge and I thought....YES! This is what I need.
Girls can do push ups, too, right? Well, I can do 6 perfect ones right now so we'll see how I end up by the end of the month. It can't hurt and holy crap pregnancy didn't do my arms any favors.

Reminds me of when one of my very best friends came to visit me a couple of months after the twins were born and remarked "Wow, you've really lost most of the baby weight already!" Then she reached over and jiggled my upper arm as she said "But your arms are still fat."
Love her......honesty.

So, here I go, 100 Push Ups Challenge.
Care to join?

Bringing Up the Past and Letting Go of Anger

2013-04-03T14:54:00.001-04:00

Have you ever found yourself unexpectedly facing the past? A past that consumes you with anger?
Oh, my past. There are so many stories to tell. Many that I've forgotten and many more that I want to forget.
Damn you, FB.

An innocent friend request. Someone from my 20+ years ago past.
I hesitated for over a month.
Finally, I accepted. When, out of curiosity, I scrolled through her friend list the name I found hit me hard and sent me reeling.
In an instant I was back there again. I knew better but I couldn't resist, I'd gone too far already. I clicked through and found the current details. I saw photos and almost vomited.
My skin crawled and anger rose instantly.

I'd hoped she was dead. She'd almost died so many times.
But there she was. A new name. Much older and withered, but very much alive.

My first love. She not only broke my heart, but she broke me.
The emotional, physical, financial and psychological pain she caused me all those years before derailed my life for the better part of a decade.

Reliving those memories is not something I want to do. But now I'm forced to do so. And I'm angry.
My god, for the last 2 days I have been so incredibly angry.

Last night, I meditated and let my mind go. I remembered the past. The snapshots of toxic 'us' played in my head. I tried to forgive myself for making such bad choices.
My entire life had been filled with drama and abuse and bad choices. There were no good role models for me to model any other type of behavior. Of course, I would be attracted to complete trash. I was trash myself.
Ouch. Cutting myself open and bleeding it out. Bleeding out the trash, the past, the filth, the lies, the love, the hate....letting it all go.
I cried for that girl I used to be. I was only 21 and I was such a fucked up mess. How damaged must I have been to love someone like that.

I want no ties to that. I can't erase my past. What's done is done and I paid the price heavily. But I need to remember it, embrace it, forgive it and let it go.

Easier said than done. How do I do that?
I've come so far in my life and this one act brought me back 23 years. It punched me in the gut and rocked my emotional state. I need to let it go.

How do you let go of anger?

I defriended the original request as I don't want my perpetrator to have any access to my life/details.

Bangkok or Bust

2013-03-29T10:43:00.000-04:00

There's been so much going on with 'plans' and I've gone too far inside my future head.

Taking a step back here's what we have decided:

We don't want to move to Europe or Latin America. Our sights have been set on Asia 100% and that's where we want to channel all of our energy.

Receiving a blessing from the monks in 2004

So, Chicken is interviewing for

jobs in the region (Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok). A LOT of feelers/connections, etc have been put out and we will have to see where this all leads.

IF the expat/work abroad gig all comes together in the next 6 months, then we move.

IF it doesn't, we go with the original plan of traveling with the kids. The sabbatical will be 6 months-one year. Not sure how much they will give us and we haven't pushed it....yet. Of course, I want one year!

Either way, in six months we will be GOING!

The official countdown has begun.

I am positively giddy with the excitement the future is going to bring.

In my room, Nong Khai. Thailand 2004

Plus, there's one more HUGE decision we've made. The NYC apartment will be gone. We'll not try to sublet it or hold onto it. We will go and be free. Whatever we decide after re-entry, is a mystery.

Perhaps we'll stay abroad or find a place on the beach or...who knows.

But, we are GOING!!

My scooter, loaded up from a shopping trip.

Paris or Berlin?

2013-03-06T14:48:00.003-05:00

In a strange sudden twist, there's more on the table for our possible expat life.
For the past year I've only been focused on Asia. Nothing else was on the radar.
I might as well have declared "Asia or Bust" because it was only going to be Asia.
And then....you start putting things out in the universe and she not only answers--she yells.
In the past month we've gone from traveling for 6 months - one year to:

Living in:

Hong Kong
Singapore
Latin America (Mexico City, Buenos Aires or Santiago)
Paris
Berlin

And if you are curious I've listed them in order of personal preference. This is important because of regardless of our focus on Asia, the EU gig has
the most potential to pan out.

It's all happened very quickly and IF Chicken were hired on for this project we could be out of NYC by May. That's 2-3 months.

So, of course the first thing I did today (OK, after making a latte and the boys breakfast and giving them forbidden objects to keep them sufficiently involved in their play so I could do my work) was start cleaning out file drawers. I mean, either way, we're going somewhere.

Could be 2 or 3 months or 7 months, but by late September/early October we are out of here.

For 2 years if we do the expat thing, a year if it's sabbatical.

Might as well start cleaning it all out now.

The initial round of 'talk's with Hong Kong start today. I hope it goes well and it leads to the position. But if not, then we keep going.
I can get excited for just about anywhere. It's all just one great big adventure and I'm ready!

Best of all is talking about it to the boys and daily one of them will ask me "Show me where we are going." We have a lot of maps posted and atlases that we pour over and talk about.
Wherever we end up, it's going to be amazing.

My Favorite Way to Wake Up

2013-02-25T13:53:00.000-05:00

He nudges me in the soft early morning light. It's not time to wake up, but he's so snuggly and sweet I can never refuse his small body burrowing under the covers next to mine.
"Are you mommy?" he whispers.
"Yes, I'm mommy." This is something he does regularly in the dark, in the night, when the lights are low.
"Are you my mommy?" he asks as he touches my face.
"Yes, I'm your mommy. Your mama-mee."
"Are you the nicest mommy?" he wonders.
"Yes. I am." (Well, what would you say?)
"Are you the prettiest mommy in the whole wide world?" he declares, not so much of a question and definitely not whispering anymore.
"Well, yes, sweet boy. I guess I am."

My heart melted over and over as Grunter wrapped his little boy arms around my neck, hugging me tight as he said he loved me.
I've never been told I was the nicest or prettiest, but this little boy, MY little boy thinks his mommy is the best thing in the world. It doesn't matter if I don't think I'm the prettiest mommy, which I assure you I do not, someone does. My child.
What an amazing thing.

There have been many different 'favorite ways to wake up' in my 43 years, but right here, right now, this one tops them all.

Stolen Pregnancy Photos

2013-02-24T23:59:00.002-05:00

Long time readers will remember that more than once in the past I have had my pregnancy photos stolen and posted on FB's accounts.
It's happened AGAIN.
I can't be sure, but I think this is the 5th time.
What is up with that?
Why would anyone post a photo of MY pregnant twin belly and then try to pass it off as their own for thousands of people to see??

And the irony of this last THIEF, is that the woman calls herself "Fashion" and yet she posts a belly shot of ME in Old Navy pj pants and a white sports bra?! WTF?!
Ha! Ha!
Not so fashionable!
If you're going to be all low class and steal photos, for god's sake at least do your homework a bit better.
Urgh.

Travel Abroad or Move Abroad?

2013-02-05T15:15:00.001-05:00

These two motivate me to be a better person every single day.

******************

"What's the plan?"

"I don't know. I'm waiting. It doesn't feel right. I can't rush these things."

I stop asking and wait. I've learned, after 12 years, that continuing to ask, push, prod and poke is not going to get me an answer I want.

That's where we were last fall. I believe it was November, right about the time I started my blogging 'hiatus'. It looked, at that time, that we might not travel at all. Chicken had landed a prime project and had no plans of sacrificing career mobility in pursuit of travel.

Her words, "this is YOUR
dream, not mine", effectively crushed me.

I suppose I could've blogged about that. But it felt so spoiled and elitist and just plain wrong. Really, I mean, I was sad and angry and getting depressed...because I couldn't travel for a year with my family? Really? There are so many bigger things in the world to worry about. Talk about your first world problems. I was more than a bit obnoxious about my disappointment.

After a long soul search, I snapped and realized how ridiculous I was being about the entire thing. So we don't travel right now. That's OK.

What's the rush, right? After all, the older the boys are, the easier it will be getting around, having them carry their own bags, etc.

But for me, having this deadline equals having a goal and that is something that has been lacking in my life since...I got pregnant. That's almost 4 years. My only 'goals' in the past 4 years have revolved around the kids and their needs. Yes, yes, I know you aren't supposed to do this, lose yourself in your children and abandon YOU. But I have, I did and now I'm finally able to come out of the fog (more and more) and do something for me because it's been all about the twins.

The terrible two's weren't terrible at all. They were tough, but that was expected. Personally, I had a lot of fun, yes I also drank a bit more, but overall I have a very positive memory of the past year. Also, what I've never shared, is that I've been doing this all alone. Since the boys were born I have either had Chicken or a nanny helping out. But after we returned from Costa Rica last winter, I knew I needed to let our nanny go and earmark that cash for travel.

Since last April, closing up on a year, I've been completely on my own. And I do mean all day, every day, day in and day out. No family around, no help. Chicken has been traveling more and more with her job (presently she's traveling for 8 solid weeks, only home on the weekends) and while this is great for her career, it's tough here at home.

The 'trip' or 'travel' was my super bright light shining down the calendar year and hearing it might not happen took my light away.

And then...interesting how the universe takes her time...things just started happening. Circumstances in Chicken's job changed, all still good, but changes nevertheless.

In the space of less than a month we are suddenly looking at two new job opportunities in either Hong Kong or Singapore. Plus, Chicken finally brought up the conversation with her superiors about taking a sabbatical for a year (or less) and that went very well.

Many positive things are happening and I have to believe only more good things are in store.

Honestly, I don't know which option I'd choose. I do research on HK and decide I want to move. Then I hear more about families raising kids in Singapore and determine that's where we need to be.

So, maybe we'll be moving to Asia this year. Or maybe not. I do have a voice in the matter, but ultimately, it will be Chicken's decision as it's her work. Any of the options are fantastic as they all include two of the key things--travel and Asia!

For today, I am trying my hardest to focus on the NOW. Stop trying so damn hard to pinpoint exactly when these things will happen in the future and simply step back and accept that the right things will happen. The less I try to control, the happier I am going to be. I'm choosing to live now and in the moment. I don't want to look back and realize I missed out because I was so busy looking ahead.

During the day it's all, "he's touching me!!" but when the lights go off....

***************************

I've been asked by a few other bloggers to write more in detail about "how" I met some of these travel lifestyle goals. If there's something you would like to know more about regarding our travel plans--don't be shy, just ask!

Update #2 on Travel Lifestyle Goals

2013-02-04T16:50:00.002-05:00

Hello, Mr. Crab, pleased to meet you

It's been so long since I've posted I hardly know where to start, so I'm just going to dive in with it.

Back in September--I can hardly believe it's already five months ago--I blogged about our travel lifestyle goals here.

So, I might as well start with some updates. Let's go!

Just another sunset in Ko Phayam

My friend, a former Hell's Angel. We made an unlikely duo.

Financial Goals:

Accumulate enough frequent flier miles for

us all to fly free round-trip NYC-Bangkok -- 100%

In Sept. this goal was met with the caveat that two of us would be flying on American Airlines and two of us would be on Delta Airlines.
As of Feb. 2013, we have enough American Airlines/partner miles for ALL FOUR of us to fly for free round trip. Originally, we wanted to fly Cathay Pacific, but it looks like we'll be aiming for Japan Airlines though Tokyo.

Earn an 'adequate' amount of Starwood/Marriott/Hyatt/Hilton hotel points to 'cushion' our stay from time to time when we need a break -- 100%

We continue to accumulate points, almost exclusively through Starwood. Our goal was to use our American Airlines Visa card until our airlines miles goals were met, then to switch over to our Starwood AmEx card so we could keep working on the hotel points.
As of Feb. 2013, we have enough Starwood points for a 2 week vacation here over Christmas and New Year holidays.
Or we could divvy up the points for different stays along the way. For instance, they also have some nice properties in Vietnam. We plan to spend one month in Vietnam, so staying somewhere like this along the way would be a welcome change from guesthouses.
Regardless, we still have 8 months of spending to accumulate points plus Chicken is doing loads of travel for her job presently, so those miles and points are going to keep adding up.

Reserve savings to sustain us for 6 months upon return -- 100%

Save enough money to travel for one year without working -- 100%

In September, this was 65%, but the goal has now been met!

A roll of toilet paper for a napkin dispenser? In South East Asia, yes, yes, yes.

Personal Goals:

Develop a location independent income stream -- 0% - 100%

This is something I've really dropped the ball on getting started. There have been some good changes lately that is going to make it possible for ME to start getting more 'work' done. I'm looking forward to doing something for ME!
Kate has leads from past employers for project work she can do remotely. So, for her, perhaps this goal is 100%.

Potty Train the boys (except for nights) -- 100%

Fully daytime trained for the past 6 months.
If we still have to use diapers at night while we travel I am totally fine with this, especially since we'll be sleeping on mattresses and linens other than our own...
Many times Grunter wakes up dry, so we could get there in 8 months time, right?

Switch boys to 'real' beds -- 100%

This was a disaster at last update. But we made it and they can now sleep anywhere. We've even had different people put them to bed (family members, baby sitters) and all is well in the kingdom of sleep. Yeah!

Go Stroller-Free -- 100%

They are good little walkers and can go quite far before getting truly tired. As long as I keep pushing us to not use the stroller here at home, I'm confident they can build up their stamina to keep up while traveling. Especially since we're not going to be doing long walks/hikes, etc.
Plus there will always be a bus / motorbike / tuk tuk / songtaew / taxi / boat / skytrain / back of a pick up truck / ferry / donkey cart / elephant / subway -- just around the corner to rescue us! Did I miss any forms of transport?!
I was set on ditching the stroller on their 3rd birthday (2 weeks ago), but I'm not going to until summertime/warmer weather. In NYC, your stroller is your car and right now, until it's scooter weather, I need my 'car' more than they do. Half the time, they end up walking while I push an empty stroller.
Instead of ditching the stroller, I emptied it, folded it up and and am storing it down in our bike room. This way, if we need it that day, we go get it, but if not, we walk, etc. This also means that for the first time in THREE years, I don't have a massive double stroller sitting in my dining room area! That, is lovely.

No Naps Needed -- 100%

In September this was 40%, but shortly after the move to 'big boy' beds, they dropped the nap completely. They have never napped in their open bed. Never. They can fall asleep on the bus, the subway, the stroller, the car, etc. but the bed, at home? Never.

My friend in the cafe, who comes to work from Burma during the high season

Celebrating Obama's Big Win

2012-11-07T09:02:00.002-05:00

The next morning, of course. It's wonderful to tell my children how America elected a President who believes in equality for ALL people. And they are old enough they are going to remember him. Warms my heart.

Rolling with the Punches

2012-10-26T14:49:00.000-04:00

There's a lot going on over here in Pufferville (there always is) and I'm going to try to play catch up in 20 minutes.

First of all, for those of you who have participated in my poll, thank you. At the time of the poll it certainly did look as if we might jump the gun and leave in February.
However, life in the Big Apple changes quickly and new opportunities--hardly punches--have come our way. Chicken got herself
a big fat promotion plus she was awarded a juicy project she's had her eye on for a long time.

By the way, while I was writing that, I felt my upper arm and damn, it's scrawny. I have really let myself go. I keep reading everyone's FB status of the 5K they ran or a freaking marathon or all the weights they are lifting or how they are practically running their own ashram with their divine yoga skills and let me tell you, I am out.of.shape.
My hair looks like shit, I rarely bother with makeup, I'm flabby (but thin) and my clothes are in need of an overhaul. Also, Chicken claims I wear the ugliest shoes in NYC (they are comfy!). I seriously am thinking of BEGGING "What Not to Wear" to come rescue me. They could title it "Lesbian Twin Mom Stuck in Yoga Pants But Never Does Yoga". Actually that's not very catchy, they will have to come up with something better but that's there job, not mine.
If they came to my house right at this moment, they would find me in the clothes I slept in last night right down to the no bra, hair in a clip and a fresh face (haha) and the boys are still in their pj's as well. And Chicken. We are a family seriously embracing our right to wear comfy clothes 24 hours/day.

In addition, I seemed to have developed a bit of a beer habit which is really helping the flab that has decided to take up residence in my belly regions. OK, so one beer a night isn't exactly a bad habit, but considering I haven't even bought beer in years and years this is pretty big. This 'desire' to have a drink say around ~~noon,~~ 5pm happened to coincide right at the time the boys truly stopped napping. We do OK getting through our day, but come 3pm they are really starting to lose it and there are still 4 hours to go in the day. By ~~3:30~~ 5pm, I am starting to lose it and often crack open a beer. It sure does make bath time a whole lot more fun, let me tell you.

Back to the update.

We can't leave in February and there's a possibility we might not leave in September. More than likely we will, but it might be pushed back a bit.
The original planning session did not take into consideration that Chicken might be in her dream job 9 months later. How many of us can say:

We love our work
We love our team
We have flexible hours
We work from home
We travel for work once a month and enjoy that break from 'life'
We have great benefits, including a pension plan
And, well, the money ain't bad either

I never could say that when I was in the working world. None of it.

Who would want to give that up? Am I disappointed that plans might change? Yes.

Do I feel like she has most of the control? Yes.

But it's a compromise and it makes sense overall.

For now, Chicken is looking at options for the following, not necessarily in this order:

Taking a sabbatical (6 months unpaid)
Finding a way to become an independent contractor with her company for X amount of time (50% work for 50% of pay--probably only 6 months)
Working out of the Singapore office (full pay)
Working in India (full pay)

As you can see, one year of travel isn't on that list.

She has offered up a bit of a 'deal' for me and that is that I can travel ~~a few more months,~~ a month, maybe two tops, either before our launch date or after the 6 months is up on my own with the twins.

I'd take that. Even if it means a 24 hour flight on my own with two 4-year-old, I'm down with that.

Right? It's just 24 hours on a plane. How bad could it be?

Don't answer that question.

The Hits Just Keep Coming

2012-10-11T15:12:00.001-04:00

I know everyone thinks their kids say the darndest things and I agree.
Kids DO say some amazing things.
I'm sharing these more so I don't forget how wonderful and imaginative they are at this age, but I hope they provide you a smile or laugh as well.

Sebastian:

On observing the letter 'C': "They busted this letter O open so it's a rainbow."
On me looking at a red spot on Max's face and asking him if it was a mosquito bite: "That mossie is going to get time out. He is not supposed to bite."
While suggesting animals while singing 'Old MacDonald Had a Farm': "Jellyfish!" What does a jellyfish sound like? "Sting Sting Here!" and "Lobster!" What does a lobster sound like? "Pinch Pinch Here!"
On dinosaurs: "I do not like the dinosaurs with the big teeth, but I like the duck billed plat-puss dinosaur. He does not have teeth and will not bite me."
On returning home to NYC after a visit upstate to Nana's where the house the cold, it rained and he was forced to wear clothing (Nana's rule, not mine): "I like to be home where I am not cold and I can be naked."

Max:

On meeting my friend Sid who lives in Hong Kong: "That is a place not in America. We live in America."
On being asked, by another mother, where the train was going while playing on the playground: "Cambodia!" (She then looked at me and said, "For real? My kid doesn't even know the word Cambodia.")
On looking at some motorcycles parked on the curb, "Here, we cannot ride these. But in some other places maybe we can." Me, "Really, like what other places?" Max, "Um, I think Thailand. The place with the spirit houses."
On admiring my necklace: "You always wear this mommy?" Yes. "You think it's pretty mommy?" I do. "I do, too. Maybe I can have a necklace with a Buddha, huh Mommy? Maybe you can find one for me to wear like you?"

These are some of the recent bits of dialogue that have stayed with me. Although this age is tough in so many ways, I love their ability to communicate and think for themselves. It's such a fascinating developmental process and I'm (overall) really enjoying this age.

My Kids Will Only Nap in the Stroller

2012-10-09T18:19:00.001-04:00

Everything comes full circle. When they were babies they would only nap in the stroller and so I walked and walked and walked. Rain or shine. Snow or sweat. And now, here we are again.
A stroller walk was the only thing that got them to sleep today. Too bad it's 5pm.
The stroller is heavy, it hurts my wrists and it's the lovely wet, cold, dark time of year--but I think stroller walks are back on. Ah well, I need more exercise.

An old lady had the nerve
to come up and tell me Max couldn't breathe like that. I snapped at her that I'd managed to keep them alive for almost 3 years thank you very much. Which was, you know, a 'more' polite way of saying "Shut the Fuck Up Thank You Very Much".

Then I went and bought beer. They are still sound asleep in the stroller and I....am drinking a beer on the couch.

They kicked off their rain boots and promptly conked out.

Inspiration for Family Travel

2012-09-28T16:32:00.000-04:00

Dream a Little Dream.

No, that's not quite right. Dream a BIG dream. Why not? Make it the biggest, best dream and then set a plan to fulfill that dream. I've known from the time I was a small girl I wanted to travel the world. At 18, I set out on my own to see the big, wide world and haven't looked back.

While in South East Asia, I noticed loads of families out traveling with their small children. They were doing things and going places with kids in tow. It had never occurred to me that was a possibility. I had thought of travel as something you do before children or after, not during. When I met this family (photos below) while scuba diving off a remote and completely rustic Thai island, a lightbulb went off and a new dream was in the making.

Upper Deck of the Boat and the 3-year-old is asleep on the deck, so close to the edge. Blew my mind.

Scuba Diving Family Who Changed My Life

Even though my partner and I didn't have any children and I had no idea when we would start a family, there was one thing I did know for sure: We would travel with them. We would start traveling when they were young and we would never stop.

By the time we depart with our boys and make our way to Thailand, it will be 10 years since I met the family pictured above. I don't know who they are or where they are from. I know nothing about them at all. But I have gazed at these photos year after year as I dreamed my dream.

Thank you, whoever you are, for inspiring me and giving me hope.

Spinach Ricotta Bites--Gluten Free

2012-09-08T10:29:00.001-04:00

Do your kids each spinach? Mine do...sort of.
I never thought I'd be 'that' mom who hid vegetables in food, but I do what have to do. The twins are the pickiest eaters, but they also are pretty normal toddlers who are resistant to trying things that are green.
Luckily there are loads of ways to incorporate healthy green into tasty dishes that will not only have your kids eating vegetables, but asking for more.
These are a favorite with my wife and kids. I hope you'll love them, too.

Spinach Ricotta Bites - adapted from Weelicious

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup ricotta cheese (low or full fat ricotta will work)
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 10 oz pkg frozen chopped spinach, defrosted and drained well (i use my hands to squeeze as much liquid out of the spinach as possible)
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Melt the butter in a sauté pan over medium heat and cook the onions for 4 minutes until tender.
3. Add the garlic and cook an additional minute then set aside to cool.
4. Whisk eggs in a bowl and stir in ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
5. Once combined, stir in spinach, salt and cooled onion and garlic mixture.
6. Pour the mixture into lightly greased mini muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and golden on top.
8. Serve.

How to Handle the Question of Homeschooling

2012-09-07T05:00:00.000-04:00

It's back to school time. Almost everyone I know has posted a photo of their little adorables all ready for their first day of school.
Not me.
They are not going to school.
My boys are 2.6 years old. Do they need to go to school?
The state of New York says that legally, I don't have to put them into school until Kindergarten.
Of course, there are ways around that with homeschooling, but legally I
have a few years until they have to go to a 'school' of some kind. And Kate and I have to agree what that is going to be. Right now, we are not in agreement and are choosing to respect each other's opinions.
It's a tricky tightrope.

I knew that by choosing not to do a "2's" program or some full time preschool, I was going to have to answer a lot of questions, but I didn't realize quite how many and from so many different people.
Friends, family, strangers, nannies on the playground. Everyone wants to know if my kids are going to school this Fall.
And every time someone asks I feel like I have to explain myself.

I shouldn't--really. I should just be able to say, "No. They are staying home with me."
But I go on with the justifications, "It costs so much money. I still couldn't go back to work because of the hours. If I did go back to work I'd have to get a nanny to fill in the gaps. The preschool + the nanny would probably cost more than I'd be making."

Preschool in Manhattan is crazy expensive and I'm not convinced they need it. Besides--they are TWO!

That's what I really want to say. But in saying that I am going to offend and alienate myself to a large portion of my social circle.

If I'm really on a roll, I tell them that we decided to take the boy's preschool money and travel for a year instead. So yeah, we DO have the money. (Kate hates it when I make it sound like we can't afford to send them to preschool). We are just deciding to make a better investment with it. After all, I personally, cannot think of a better education than taking your kids traveling with you.

This either opens up an entire conversation of 'Wow's' or their eyes glaze over as they process what the hippie in the city just said.

Worldschooling. Roadschooling. Homeschooling. Whatever you want to call it, the kids are going to be learning an incredible amount in the years coming up and I'm convinced it's for the best.

These boys of mine are ahead of the curve already. I know I'm biased because they are mine (but not genetically--I didn't have anything to do with these brains of theirs), but these two are crazy smart. This is a benefit of being able to choose the ideal specimen for 50% of their genetic makeup. It's a nice bonus after all of the hassle of trying to get pregnant and shelling out 25K, right?!

I don't think keeping them out of preschool is going to do any great harm and I do have them signed up for a couple of outside classes so it's not like we don't get out and do other things.
In fact, we get out and do more than most other moms I know. We have new adventures every single week and New York City has an endless supply of more amazing things to discover.

If you want to homeschool and you want the world at your fingertips--this is the city to be doing it.

Sebastian aka Whoop Whoop thinking about all of the animals he just saw at the Bronx Zoo....

Planning for our Trip--Countries to Visit

2012-09-06T09:52:00.000-04:00

I've been asked by so many people, "Where exactly are you going on this big adventure?"

The answer is--we're not 'exactly' sure.
We have a list of places where we'd like to spend time and things we'd like to see, but we don't have the year planned out, nor do we want to.
There will be times we arrive in a place and find ourselves thinking "When can
we leave?" (Answer: Give it 3 days, if you still hate it, listen to your gut and get out.)
And then again there will be places we adore and we'll never want to leave (we know this from experience when we got 'lost' on Utila, Honduras for far longer than we'd anticipated).
There will be fabulous Air Asia tickets that go on sale and direct us to another far flung destination because for that price, why not?
We'll be guided by weather patterns and monsoons and heat and rain.
Oh the places we'll go!
We'll meet other families who will share their stories and our travel plans will change all over again.

But since I'm a planner, of course I need to map it out.
Here are the countries we hope to visit--not necessarily in this order, although we will be flying into Bangkok and we do hope to finish and fly out of South India.

Thailand - 3 months
Cambodia - 1 month
Vietnam - 1 month
Laos - 1 month
Burma - 1 month
Indonesia - 1 month
Malaysia - 3 months
South India - 2 months

Yes, I know that is 13 months. Obviously things will change here and there, but this is the overall main plan.
We would love, love, love to visit South Africa but I just don't know if that will happen as it will increase our budget greatly.

If we decide to extend our trip to what we refer to as "The 2 Year Plan" (and yes, this has definitely been discussed) then we'll be heading back to the Americas.....South America.

Gluten Free Almond Cakes

2012-09-05T09:58:00.003-04:00

I'm sharing this as I've made these for so many people, they're a big hit and they always ask for the recipe, adapted from Elana's Pantry.
Our family is not gluten free but a number of my friends are and I know it's becoming more and more common.

I have a number of 'pancake' recipes that I make for my toddlers, but I call them 'cakes' because
who doesn't want cake?! Even if you call them cakes, they are packed full of protein and are a healthy snack for kids
These are perfect for travel or a nice afternoon treat.

If you want to really to indulge, spread with Nutella and enjoy!

Almond (Pan) Cakes

3 large eggs
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons honey
1 ½ cups blanched almond flour (I use Trader Joe's Just Almond Meal)
¼ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
coconut oil, for cooking

In a large bowl whisk together eggs, water, vanilla and honey
Add almond flour, salt and baking soda and mix until thoroughly combined
Heat coconut oil on skillet over medium low to medium heat
Scoop 1 heaping tablespoon of batter at a time onto the skillet
Pancakes will form little bubbles, when bubbles open, flip pancakes over and cook other side
Remove from heat to a plate
Repeat process with remaining batter, add more oil to skillet as needed

Yields 18 small pancakes

Our Travel Lifestyle Goals--VOTE!

2012-09-04T17:08:00.001-04:00

**After you read this post, please go to my poll on the right side of this page and VOTE!**

We have many goals to achieve before we set out for a year of travel with our twins. The biggies are listed below. There are tons more like scanning documents and selling our stuff and figuring out what to keep and what goes in storage, but that's for another post, a different list.
I wrote previously about our plans for a year of travel with kids, but now I'll break it down even further.

Here's where we stand with one year to go:

Financial Goals:

Accumulate enough frequent flier miles for us all to fly free roundtrip, NYC-Bangkok -- 100%

We focused on American Airline miles so we could fly their partner airline, Cathay Pacific. Originally the plan was to do a one-way stopover in Hong Kong (one of Cathay's hubs) on the way to Bangkok. It would break up a really long flight, plus it's a city we would love to visit and we both have friends who live there. However, the airline has changed the frequent flier policy and stopovers are no longer allowed. We'll still be stopping in Hong Kong, but only to change flights on our way to Bangkok.
The airlines now issue tickets in one way segments. This means we need 8 tickets--4 one ways to get us there and 4 to get us back. Currently, we have enough American Airlines miles for 6.75 tickets and enough Delta miles for 2 tickets.
The plan is to keep accumulating AA miles so we can all fly together. However, IF we had to, we would split up coming home and Kate would fly with one child on AA and I would fly with the other child on Delta.

Earn an adequate amount of Starwood/Marriott/Hyatt/Hilton hotel points to 'cushion' our stay from time to time when we need a break -- 100%

We don't really have a set 'goal' for this as all hotel chains have vastly different categories and points needed. However, we have the most points in Starwood as they have excellent hotels in Asia and require fewer points per stay than the other chains.
For now, we have enough points for just a couple of nights each in a Marriott/Hyatt/Hilton. This should work out well when we hit a new location and just need a day or to of 'recovery' time while we look around for longer-term lodging or an apartment rental.
The Starwood points will come in very handy as we have enough so far for a week's true vacation at a fancy resort like this or this or this, and we'll still have plenty leftover for 5 or 6 nights elsewhere along the way when we need a bit of luxury.
We will have 'preferred Gold status' for Starwood which means free upgrades, gifts, club room, late check out, etc. It's a super nice perk to have while traveling.

Reserve savings to sustain us for 6 months upon return (in case it takes awhile to find work) -- 100%

I honestly think Kate will have a job lined up before we even return OR she'll discover something in another country along the way OR.....something else. Nevertheless, it's always good to have the cushion and we don't want to leave without knowing it's there for us when we return.

Save enough money to travel for one year without working -- 65%

We started seriously planning for our trip in January 2012--just 8 months ago--and we're already at 65%. I have no doubts we can reach our goal with 12 more months to save. But, let's say we felt that itch to leave in 4 or 5 months....and we were at 75% and had found a way to earn money on the road...then we might decide we were OK with not reaching 100% upon departure. Maybe.

Personal Goals:

Develop a location independent income stream -- 0% - 100%

This is something I'm currently researching in terms of my writing and blogging. I know I can make money doing this. Now, I just have to do it and do it right.
Kate has leads from past employers for project work she can do remotely. So, for her, perhaps this goal is 100%.

Potty Train the boys (except for nights) -- 100%

Currently they are daytime trained. Yes, I have to 'remind' them and yes, we still have accidents but less and less each day.
If we still have to use diapers at night while we travel I am totally fine with this, especially since we'll be sleeping on mattresses and linens other than our own...

Switch boys to 'real' beds -- 0%

Oh my. I tried to switch them to toddler beds with disastrous results. They are back in cribs.
This one scares me so much I don't even want to try it again and I'm tempted to just want until we're all in a hotel room together and I have no choice.

Go Stroller-Free -- 50%

They are good little walkers and can go quite far before getting truly tired. As long as I keep pushing us to not use the stroller here at home, I'm confident they can build up their stamina to keep up while traveling. Especially since we're not going to be doing long walks/hikes, etc.
Plus there will always be a bus / motorbike / tuk tuk / songtaew / taxi / boat / skytrain / back of a pick up truck / ferry / donkey cart / elephant / subway -- just around the corner to rescue us! Did I miss any forms of transport?!

No Naps Needed -- 40%

I really don't want them to 'drop' their nap because damn, I love that mid-day break. But, they have already started doing this themselves.
Ideally we will all have some 'down time' during the heat of the day where we can just relax and recharge. Even if they don't nap, they can still power through the rest of the day.

Digital Nomads? Location Independent? Vagabonds?

2012-09-03T12:06:00.001-04:00

Travel, and how to do it long term, is never far from my thoughts these days.

It's something I've wanted to do with my kids even before I had kids.

Having twins threw a tiny wrench into the plans as it's a wee bit harder to travel with two tiny tots instead of one (and then perhaps, another) but we have managed so far and done quite well.

Now we're gearing up for our next big adventure.

A year off starting September/October 2013. Well, at this point, we have agreed on travels through South East Asia and South India for one year and as we go along we can assess.

Just yesterday Kate told me "Let's just agree that if we are miserable after six months, we'll call it quits and come back home."

I solemnly told her, "Of course. Or, I'll at least let you buy a ticket and you can go home (just kidding)."

Quitting is not really an option for me--I'm ready to travel for 2 or 3 years!

I love the planning part of travel, but I hate the waiting part.

Right now it's all about:

waiting,
saving money,
accumulating airline points and hotel points,
planning for roadschooling/homeschooling/unschooling,
cleaning out the apartment by selling/donating/storing our stuff,
finding the perfect long-term subletter for our apartment,
oh, and figuring out who is going to take care of our sweet cat (mom?).

While we wait, I ponder "What will we become as a family?"

Will we be a wandering vagabond family taking a year off and not working?

Will we successfully find work along the way and become location independent digital nomads?

Will Kate be lured into an international lifestyle and decide to search for full time work in Bangkok, Singapore or Hong Kong?

The ideal goal is to make money while traveling. HOW to do this is the hot question.

Our plan is for Kate to work about 20 hours a week while on the road. There are projects she can do remotely and a possibility she can do some work with her current company as well.

I would also like to be working and am currently researching ways towards creating my own income stream.

So here we are. One year to go. Or maybe only four more months.

There's been a lot of talk lately of leaving after Christmas.....

We Have Itty Bitty Titties

2012-08-21T17:49:00.002-04:00

Some of the best conversations happen in the dark while in bed. Don't you agree? This also applies to toddlers (at least mine).

Last night as I was saying good night to the boys, Max said "You are my mommy".
"Yes, I am."
"You are my MaMaMee!" (They used to call me this before they figured out I was Mommy and Chicken was Mama)
"That's right, I'll always be your mamamee"
"You have boobies."
"Yes, yes I do."
Sebastian pipes up with "You have big ones, but Max and I have
little tiny ones."
Hmmm.
"Yours make mommy milk, but Max and I can't make mommy milk."
"That's true, you do have little boobies, but girls make the mommy milk."
Max, "Let me try your mommy milk right now!"

I oblige, standing there at the crib looking only slightly different from that very controversial Time magazine cover. He hasn't even tried to nurse in over a week, but what the hell.
After about 10 seconds he declares there's only a little bit and I pull my shirt back down.

"I want to be a girl," he says.
"Why?" I ask.
"So, I can make mommy milk. Then there will be more."
"Hmm, it would be hard for you to make mommy milk for yourself."
"You should make more, Mommy."
"I wish I could, Max. But it doesn't last forever and it lasted a really long time for you. You were so lucky to have mommy milk as long as you did (2.5 years). I'd have to make a baby to get more mommy milk."
"Like Neal?" Max asks excitedly, "You could have a baby like his little sister. Then I would have mommy milk again!"
"Ummm, but if I had another baby, the mommy milk would be for the new baby."
"Mommy, don't make a baby, ok?" Sebastian pipes up.
"It's OK Mommy" agreed Max.

Whew, glad that's settled. No one is pining for an extra little brother or sister over here! We're done, people, done. The milk shop is out of business. And I've got the itty bitty titties to prove it. Such a sad sight these sorry, deflated little balloons on my chest. They did an important job, but the battle scars are severe!

How not to write a real post when you are so far behind you can't catch up

2012-08-12T22:16:00.001-04:00

The summer has flown by and there's just so much to say I honestly don't know where to start.

It's bullets for now plus something new--FB status updates. Because I can hammer something out on FB but can't manage to get my shit together for a decent post.
Nevertheless, some of these post are just too good not to share.
I'm coming clean with real names because I just don't have the time/energy to care to change them. Eventually this was going to happen.
Now I have absolutely no secrets. You know everything.
Grunter= Maximo
Whoop Whoop/W2=Sebastian
Chicken=Kate

I've been nanny-free for almost 3 months. Just me and the kids 24/7. I didn't think I could do it, but I can and I am.
Kate has been traveling for work more and more. I'm single mom in the city a few time a month for days at a time. So far, no nervous breakdowns.
We didn't succeed in potty training Round One (Costa Rica in March) or Round Two (early June)
The boys have all but dropped their nap
We bought bikes and child seats and are getting every dollar out of them exploring the city and Brooklyn. Love family biking!
Between twins that don't nap and me not having any help, I haven't made much time to write
We spent a lovely week upstate in the Adirondacks with the boys and my parents (who drove 3 days to meet us there) followed by a week on Cape Cod. Many miles of beautiful bike rides. Vacation totally disrupts early potty training.
The boys are wicked smart and hilarious.

June 13:

Chicken: I think I gained 2 pounds. Do I look fat?
Me: It's only 2 pounds, it probably muscle. No, you don't look fat. When did you weigh yourself?
Chicken: This afternoon after I worked out.
Me: You don't weigh yourself in the afternoon. You know that.
Grunter: Do it first ting in da morning.
OMG, this kid hears and remembers EVERYTHING.

June 12:
I am about 99% consistent on my follow through. My kids know this. Today, Mr. Max, who has decided not to nap and be a terror instead, was doing something he was not supposed to do. I gave him a warning and ended it with a "I mean it, Max.". He did it anyway. I was too tired to care. And he (rather triumphantly I believe) declared, "Mommy didn't mean it!" So smart these little munchkins. And a good reminder to be consistent.

June 14:
Washing dishes today and listening to the boys playing fireman in the living room. I cannot see the living room from my kitchen. The boys are naked. I momentarily panic thinking about what they are using as a 'hose' to put out the fire?? So I do what any mother would do, I called out to remind them that "real firemen use the potty when they have to pee." And you know what? They did:)

June 17:
Toddlers not napping on the weekends....this is becoming a pattern. And one is completely naked in his crib. We'll see how that goes. At least they've never tried to climb out. And they did sleep until almost 8am. Could be worse, right?

June 18:
I need to write a real book about parenting twins. Day 3 of no naps. Had to drag one crib to the middle of the room when I realized they had started ripping artwork off the walls. Second time I went in and discovered Max had removed all of his clothes and diaper--which was, of course--full of poop. They are both completely naked in their cribs, making the most annoying sounds ever to protest the fact that they don't 'do' nap time OR rest time OR whatever it is I'm promoting thank-you-very-much. Kate is out of town. Ice cream is in the fridge, waiting for them to go to bed tonight.

And then I found the crib sheet removed and ripped into shreds.....
Oh, and if you think giving 2 year olds sensory boxes after having not napped for 3 days in a row is a good idea, you are an idiot. Unless, of course, you enjoy having 20 lbs of rice and 5 bags of dried split peas dumped ALL over your house. All wooden blocks have been put on high shelves as they were being used as weapons. Screw the ice cream. Mommy needs tequila.

June 19:
I made them walk and walk and walk some more. I fed them a hot lunch. I put them in double diapers--one frontwards and one backwards--to deter the mini strippers. I dimmed the lights and darkened the cool room. I read soothing books. I prayed to the nap gods. And then I left the room. There was shrieking and singing for 30 minutes. And then....finally....it was quiet. So I ate ice cream.
Unfortunately I soon heard what can only be described as a ripping sound and Sebastian softly chanting "naked naked naked" followed by cries of "Mommy, Pee Pee!". Everything was off. Double diapers be damned. He wanted to pee in the potty. And really, how can I get mad at that? Back in the crib, butt naked and now smacking books against the side of his crib. At least one is asleep, no poop has been flung and the crib sheets aren't shredded. If Kate's flight has her here before bedtime, they are all hers!

June 21:
I remember a few weeks ago another mom was asking how to keep diapers on at nap/bedtime and I said something really stupid and smug like "Oh, we've never had that problem. I guess it's because we let them go naked so much that they get it out of their system." Yeah, that. Karma. Last night before going to bed, we went in to check on the boys and were shocked to find Tian completely naked asleep in the crib. Luckily, even though he'd been asleep for almost 4 hours, everything was completely clean and dry. Today at nap time, I knew I had to break out the big guns. The tape gun. That's right, I wrapped heavy duty packing tape around my little darlings diapers. I expected massive protesting and possible hysterics. Instead, I got Sebastian saying "Tape me up more, Mommy." Go figure. They are napping. Problem (hopefully) solved.

June 23:
Mutiny. They figured out how to get the tape off their diapers. Poo was involved. Must find stronger tape.

Sebastian has shredded every crib sheet we own except the one currently on Max's bed. They were both starting to strip off their pj's before I even turned off the light. Diapers were tightly wrapped with tape. But I wasn't going to take any more chances. I quickly grabbed two long-sleeved, footed, zippered pj's, cut the feet off and twisted the zipper pull until it broke. Next, I located a safety pin. Stay with me here. I then put the pj's on backwards and used the safety pin to pull up the zipper (and then took the safety pin out). They are zippered up backwards (and a snap at the top!) and man are they pissed about that. Sebastian is sleeping white-trash style on a bare mattress as we have no crib sheets left. It's always an adventure around here.

June 28:
Even contained in their cribs they cause destruction. Managed to reach an edge of their play mat tiles ripping them up and dragging part of the rug into the crib. The crib that still has no sheet. Note the paint missing. (Sebastian found a piece of paint on the wall to chip away at...) I suspect that hole is going to get bigger. So much energy.

July 2:
Any ideas on how to keep the mattress in the pack n play? My little darlings are traveling for the next couple of weeks and we're day 4 of no naps. Today it was because they took the mattresses out and when I went upstairs Max had thrown his over the side and Sebastian had rolled his up and was trying to use it as an escape ladder. Anyone else's kids do these tricks? Velcro is nothing to these two.
You can't get these two to sleep UNLESS they are contained. They have never been able to sleep on an 'open' surface because they can't help themselves to not get up and explore everything no matter how tired they are. I marvel when I see babies/toddlers/kids sleeping on a blanket at the beach/park/home because they has never been any part of my reality--unless they are sick.

Naked Potty Training--Day 5

2012-06-17T14:37:00.003-04:00

Things are going pretty well over here. As good as it can be potty training 2.5 year old twins. We've been out and about since Day 2 and the travel potties go everywhere we go. W2 has peed in the middle of a lawn, on a basketball court, on a gravel path, on a sidewalk, and in front of our building. I *could* start letting him
stand up and just go, but then he'll want to do this and home and I'm just not ready for a pee-filled bathroom. Also, I don't want him to think he can just pee anywhere he wants to outside.
That could be really embarrassing at the country club golfcourse. Not that we golf or belong to a country club. But you know-things like that.

Plus, he's the type who needs everything off before he'll sit down. Shoes off, pants off, sometimes even shirt off. There's no squatting with your pants around your ankles going on here. Crocs are now the everyday shoes. No Keens allowed.
So far, only one small accident yesterday. He was playing outside, having too much fun and a small trickle started. He immediately came over to me, I saw the wet place on the front and asked if he needed the potty.
The kid started to pee and stopped himself! He wanted to use the potty! Sure enough, he sat right down and finished up. I was amazed.

Today at breakfast he said he needed to pee. I helped him down and instead of running to the potty--he ran to the bathroom first. Because his hands had food on them and he wanted to wash them first. I don't know about you, but running water when you have to already pee??
Little dude held it and then went on the potty immediately.

This morning we had a playdate and he absolutely refused to sit on the potty before we went out OR put on pants.
So, I put him in the stroller with only a shirt, put his pants in the bag and off we went.
When we was ready to get out and ride his scooter, I told him he needed to use the potty. Again--refusal.
I gave up. You cannot make toddlers eat, pee or poop.
I put on his pants and figured we'd see what happens. He never went. Not in the potty, not in his pants.
He waited until we came back home--a good 3 hours later. I have no idea if this is normal for day 5, but I'm blown away.

Right now, he's naked in the crib for his nap (not that either one of them are sleeping, second day in a row of nap refusal). The battle to get the diaper on was just not worth it, so I told him he could be naked but if he felt like going pee pee he needed to hold it. I mean, after all, he held it for 3 hours this morning so I know he can.

I've almost stopped asking him constantly if he needs to go, because he just goes. He doesn't care about praise or emptying it or flushing it or stickers or anything. He just goes.
Oh, but not for poop. He tried so hard this morning but he said he was scared. I put on a diaper-he pooped-and off came the diaper.

What do you do about the scaredy poop toddler? Any suggestions?
Also, I read that for the naked potty training to be the absolute most effective, you should commit to being naked in the house (below the waist at least) and diaperless with loose pants/short when outside for THREE months before putting on chonies/undies.
Thoughts? Experiences?

PS--Grunter did not want to be naked at all yesterday. Today he is a little more curious again. One step forward, one step back.

Summertime in New York City, It's So Much Better at Age 2

2012-06-16T14:50:00.003-04:00

I am in love with summer. Aside from the dog days when the humidity heats its peak and the temps top 90s, it's my favorite season.
Chicken and I decided to have a picnic in the park last night instead of eating dinner inside. We got lobster rolls from my favorite shack down the street and couldn't wait to share them with the twins. Last summer they devoured them. This summer? They were both too scared that
the lobsters were going to pinch them! Oh the fear of the lobster roll!
I had to eat two myself (the tragedy!) while the boys ended up with rice cakes and peanut butter.
Oh well, better for the budget not to get them craving lobster at age two, huh?
At least Luke's gives a 'frequent lobster card' and we got a free roll last night. Great deal!

While we were picnicing, the boys had decided to park themselves on a gravel path just outside the grassy area. I allowed them to stay there with their construction toys, playing with the rocks and dirt, as long as they didn't stray too far.
As I watched them immersed in play, I thought back to this time last year. I was losing my mind! We were seriously thinking about buying a house in Florida of all places and moving out of the city once and for all. I suppose it's the hump that many don't make it through and families flee the city at this point. The hump didn't last forever, a few months of complete craziness but by 18 months I felt like we rounded a new corner and we'd make it.

Remembering how I felt last year made me appreciate this summer even more. I had a feeling this age was going to be awesome and it really is. I know many refer to this age as the 'terrible twos' but I'm finding it to be pretty terrific.
Yes, we have tantrums and trials, but overall it's just FUN. I love their spirit of independence.
And they listen. They pay attention to the rules and follow directions and don't go running away like maniacs anymore. Eh, most of the time. I don't get frazzled and freaked out with large open spaces. We go stroller free short distances and I am fairly confident they are not going to run into the street.

One day W2 had a ball and it got away from him and rolled into the street. Worst nightmare, right? He ran to ME and told me his ball was in the street. Then, I told them--in my no nonsense voice--they both needed to stay right there with their hands on the stroller while I crossed the street and retrieved the ball. Yes, I could have put them back in the stroller, strapped them in and then gone for the ball. But I really wanted to trust they could do this, and they didn't fail the test.

There are so many incredible things to do here in the city and they are at a perfect age to take advantage of it. Last summer they weren't ready for many outings and now I have a hard time deciding what to do as we have a gazillion choices. I have a feed for Mommy Poppins and Time Out New York Kids and I'm consistently amazed at how many kids activities are offered every single day.

I do wish there were more places I could take them by myself. Unless it's walkable, a location that has subway elevator access or it's on a weekend where Chicken can come with us--we still can't do everything I want to do. There's a marvelous Waldorf-based playground that meets once or twice a week in Central Park--but I have no way to get up there with both of them. Not yet. I think if it were just Whoop Whoop we could be out and about more because the boy loves to walk and doesn't tire easily. Grunter on the other hand is slow, slow, slow and wants to be picked up after a few blocks. He's not there, yet. Once I feel confident of getting them to and from a bus stop/subway station (and all of those stairs) by myself we are going to be all over this city!

For now, we are having a blast riding scooters, digging in the dirt with sticks, playing in the fountains and sprinklers, having picnics, looking for construction vehicles, exploring all the parks, playing mini golf, taking long strolls, eating pizza, going to the zoo, painting, enjoying ice cream and riding our bikes and playing with all of our friends.

Normal kid stuff--right here in the big, big city.

A Day in the Life of a Toddler--Potty Training

2012-06-15T14:42:00.002-04:00

We've entered nekid potty training bootcamp. Quite by accident, I must say. It seems that more than half of the battle of getting W2 dressed...was because he doesn't want to wear a diaper anymore. This child had little interest in the potty chair last week and this week....

Well, it's just like him. He did this to

me with breastfeeding as well! Just when I start to categorize them and put them in little boxes, "He's like this. He's going to be this way." They pull out one great big surprise on me.

They get a reward sticker to put on their potty. One for pee, two for poo.

In typical W2 style, he could seriously care less about the stickers. I have to remind him. Bribery/rewards don't work so well with this one. He's so stubborn and independent. He's only going to do it when he's good and ready. I just love his big spirit.

So, we've been spending the majority of our days inside. On Wednesday we spent the entire day inside. Thursday we ventured out once for about an hour:

Starting our day with a good wrestling match. Note the potty chairs lined up at the ready. I do not put them in the bathroom because they don't want to go there and hang out by themselves. It works much better when I put them wherever we are playing. They go from room to room throughout the day.

A little friend came over and W2 played dress up with her brellie and shoes

After spending the morning inside I decided to venture out--without diapers on. I packed up the travel potties and put them in loose shorts. I tried to get them to use the regular potty chairs inside before we left. We got 6 feet outside the lobby and they announced they wanted to use the travel potty. Great indiscreet spot, boys.

Waiting for the pee....

And we have a winner! Grunter throws away his bag o pee all by himself

Off to the post box to mail out some cards

They are finally tall enough to stand on the bench, open the box and drop it in without any help

Grunter is clapping for Whoop Whoop. They are so pleased with themselves.

A little swinging. Feeling the cool breeze where a diaper used to be...

A day is not complete without a little digger watching

Look! It's digging!!

And home again to do a little singing, drumming and guitar playing before our nap.

Naked. On my sofa.

So far, so good.

Today is Friday, day 3. They've both been diaperless all morning and only one accident by Grunter. Kind of my fault as I didn't remind him to go pee before putting him in his booster before brekkie. Poor guy. He was sitting in it and really sad:(

Oh and W2 really, really wanted to poo in the potty. He tried 3 times, then asked for a diaper. I complied, he poo'd immediately and went back to being naked. One step at a time...

We even went to the park and played for over an hour. They used the travel potties in the park and no accidents in the stroller.

I'm doing diapers for naps and bed time, but other than that....I think we might be well on our way!

Of course, this means any plans have to be super close to home right now, but that won't last forever.