it's not over 'til the craft lady sings...

why I love Sundays...

2012-02-05T22:51:00.001-05:00

2012.036 - Amazingly great Sunday... started with breakfast at the diner, solo. 45 minutes all to myself! Just me and a magazine and a really good meal. :-)

Then I went to church, taught Sunday school and announced the summer musical. After which there was a quick stop for cupcakes (hence the dirty face shots) and off to Grandma Jane's where there was more playing with Model Magic.

Fun, tiring, full day. Good night!

2012-02-04T22:42:00.001-05:00

2012.035 - music lessons, house cleaning, grocery shopping, babysitting, etc. just a typical Saturday (with some model magic creations mixed in). The first picture is of a snowflake "ball" Molly made a few years ago. I just love it!

off to Boston...

2012-02-03T22:40:00.000-05:00

2012.034 - yet another Boston work day.

I certainly hope so...

2012-02-02T22:06:00.000-05:00

2012.033 - I certainly hope so... (my fortune today)

alien astronauts!

2012-02-01T22:02:00.000-05:00

2012.032 - I have no idea why these astronaut toys had me giggling today - but they did.

dog...

2012-01-31T22:01:00.000-05:00

2012.031 - He may not be my favorite pet, but he is the most photogenic.

what I needed...

2012-01-30T21:56:00.001-05:00

2012.30 - What I needed today? A glass of wine! I was just so desperate for it - I actually put an ice cube in it - so I wouldn't have to wait for it too chill. Then I just thought the ice melting looked so cool!

Zibits!

2012-01-29T20:16:00.000-05:00

2012.029 - Matt has fallen in love with these tiny little robots called Zibits.

Yale...

2012-01-28T20:04:00.000-05:00

2012.028 - Molly is taking acting improv classes on Yale's campus. It is always such a treat to get to walk through the campus. So many beautiful buildings. Matt took one look at this building and loudly announced that it was the "biggest building EVER!"

we're bringing the musical back...

2012-01-27T19:53:00.000-05:00

2012.027 - Yes, it looks like the musical will be back this summer. Today, the preview script arrived. I have been reading and re-reading it!

more middle schools...

2012-01-26T21:47:00.000-05:00

2012.026 - I spent my morning checking out yet another middle school. This one was amazing - but out of our price range. I'll let Molly apply and hope for scholarships.

doggy prison

2012-01-25T08:22:00.000-05:00

2012.026 - Finn manages to look even more pathetic when he is penned in the kitchen while we are at work.

off to school

2012-01-24T20:41:00.000-05:00

2012.024 - Never ceases to amaze me that she can look so old when she wears clothes she picked out, but in her school uniform - she still looks like a little girl.

happy music...

2012-01-23T20:11:00.000-05:00

2012.023 - The best thing that happened in our house tonight was Molly playing song after song on her clarinet (way more than what she was assigned). Just playing because she was having fun playing. THAT just made me SO happy. :)

my little, tiny kitty... NOT!

2012-01-22T20:13:00.000-05:00

2012.022 - Clark is having nothing to do with going outside in the snow.

snow day!

2012-01-21T22:03:00.000-05:00

2012.021 - The weatherman may have predicted 4-6 inches of snow, but we got well over a foot! I spent the day inside baking and my dear, wonderful husband not only shoveled us out, but went and picked up some wine (since I was without). God bless my husband!

view from my dining room window

Why yes - of course, we played LOTS of LEGO today.

Yummy whoopie pies! Haven't had these in forever!

mattism...

2012-01-20T11:42:00.000-05:00

2012.020 - Today I post a picture of the front of my fridge. I just can't help but smile everytime I see this picture Matt drew. The week before Christmas, his Sunday School teacher asked him to draw a picture of a Christmas tree. Matt drew a picture of Jesus thinking about his Christmas tree (and later added his stocking too).

a boy and his dog...

2012-01-19T19:30:00.000-05:00

2012.019

checking out middle schools...

2012-01-18T21:16:00.000-05:00

2012.018 - Molly and I took the morning off to attend an open house at Betsy Ross Arts Magnet School in New Haven. She loved it - a school that spends an hour each day in theater, music, visual arts, and/or dance. She is in LOVE (and it seems like it would be a perfect fit for her). The downside - admission is done by lottery and there aren't very many 7th grade spots available. Well... as my Mom would say - if it is meant to be, it will be. So putting this one in God's hands.

Look! A parking meter that takes credit cards! Too funny!

Where Molly and I had lunch (we love this place).

Molly referred to this as the "saddest table ever - it looks like someone has been put in timeout"

gym - before and after...

2012-01-17T22:13:00.000-05:00

2012.017 - this is what it looks like on my way to the gym (please note the icky gross snow)...

what it looks like on the way home from the gym...

Yeah, I know not much difference - but it just shows you how early 5:30am really is!!!!!

what lunch with a tween looks like...

2012-01-16T18:20:00.002-05:00

2012.016

most pathetic dog - ever....

2012-01-15T18:15:00.000-05:00

2012.015 - as we were leaving for the day's activities... this is where I found our very sad dog.

He is trying to look all sad and pathetic because he is being left behind

and all I can think is, I wish we could switch places.

I feel pretty...

2012-01-14T20:21:00.001-05:00

2012.014 - Seriously can't believe the ridiculous stuff I do to hide gray hairs.

Boston! Yay!

2012-01-13T20:50:00.000-05:00

2012.013 Had to go to Boston for work. Love to take the train (even if it did make me late). I worked the whole way there, but got a chance to watch Midnight in Paris (what a great movie) and daydream while watching out the window on the way home...

Leaving New Haven

All set to work

The clouds looked like they were painted in the sky today.

It was very bright in Boston.

The view from our table at lunch.

I always think this is such a cute station.

It got dark really quickly on the way home!

my little lego head boy...

2012-01-12T18:50:00.000-05:00

2012-012 - I have no idea what Matt would do without his LEGO. He has even built his own LEGO army (please note that all minifigs are well armed). He is even starting to look like his LEGOs! ;)

still working...

2012-01-11T22:36:00.000-05:00

2012.011 - After quite a busy day, I find myself still working at 10:30 at night. Even worse - I forgot to take any pictures today. So here is my current world view... me - sitting in bed, surrounded by work, in my super-cool polar bear pj's.

I did better than I thought...

2012-01-10T20:18:00.000-05:00

2012.010 - Survived the first week of WW with lots of slip-ups, but still managed to lose weight. Yay!

first a lava lamp, now this...

2012-01-09T20:44:00.000-05:00

2012.009 - Last Christmas, Matt's favorite gift was a lava lamp. This year is all about the disco ball! My boy was born in the wrong decade or something.

Matt loves to read...

2012-01-08T16:39:00.000-05:00

2012.008 Matt loves to read... as long as it is about LEGO. ;-)

this is my kind of winter...

2012-01-07T18:47:00.000-05:00

2012.007 - One year ago today, we got hit with a foot of snow. Today was beautiful, sunny, and 60 degrees. This is my kind of winter! I spent part of the afternoon walking the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail with Matt and Finn - what an excellent way to spend the day.

I hate dieting...

2012-01-06T20:52:00.002-05:00

2012.006 What a WW breakfast and lunch looks like... I really hate dieting!

waiting rooms...

2012-01-05T20:28:00.000-05:00

2012.005 - I think that all waiting rooms look alike...

it's cute now...

2012-01-04T20:08:00.000-05:00

2012.004 - I think the way his letters are backwards is so cute right now. I am pretty sure my opinion will change when he is in 5th grade. ;)

birthday pennies...

2012-01-03T20:30:00.001-05:00

2012.003 - Matt celebrated his 7th birthday at school today. 7 pennies into the jar and 1 for luck!

2012.002.2 or "what today's picture should have been"...

2012-01-02T20:53:00.000-05:00

Molly vs. doorknob

Made it through 2+ weeks of winter break with no injuries or illness... until, we started to get ready for school. Molly was getting her uniform and schoolbooks together when she tripped and hit her head against her doorknob. Poor kid. She says her head still really hurts (I bet it does!)

before and after...

2012-01-02T19:08:00.000-05:00

2011.002 - Deconstructing Christmas...

Before

After

365 Project

2012-01-01T21:02:00.000-05:00

For the past few years, I have said "I should do one of those 365 projects". This year I thought I'd try something different... actually DO a 365 project. I am going to try and post a picture daily. Can't promise I'll post anything but the picture and who knows how long this will last, but let's give it a shot!

2011.001 - New hamsters (R2 and D2)

Why yes - that is me on-stage...

2011-07-04T14:07:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it, I did it! Take that, you stupid fear that has been controlling my life! (imagine me blowing raspberries here)

I let my worrying overtake my ability to enjoy performing. One stupid mistake, many years ago and I was willing to never set foot on stage again. Yes, 20 years ago or so I walked out on stage and blanked. Yes, I needed to be reminded where we were in the show to get myself back on track. Yes, I sang the wrong verse of a song. Yes, I should have been able to let that go 2 decades ago and not let it have this hold over me. However, I didn't let it go and instead have relived the moment ever since.

A dear friend asked our family to come and audition for Godspell (she was the Musical Director), I auditioned SO BADLY because of nerves - I had few lines and no singing parts. As we worked our way through the rehearsal schedule - the Director gave me more and more to do. Then the unthinkable happened... someone had to drop out and she handed me a solo... sing? in public? and I am supposed to remember what to do? Seriously terrified - doesn't even cover the way I was feeling.

This is where I remembered how REALLY lucky I am! I have these amazingly supportive friends. A friend (who wasn't even in the show) took time out of his schedule to play the song over and over with me, another friend came to sing her part/choral parts while I sang - so I could get a feel for how it would work, and his wife (also a good friend) was my cheerleader.

When the moment came for me to get up and sing - I was pretty sure that I would forget everything or have an aneurysm. Really, these were the only choices that I thought I had. It was so stressful.

But, I was totally surprised... I sang and the world didn't fall apart around me. I think I even got most of the words right. I survived! Not only did I survive, but I did it again the next day (I think I even did it a little better.)

Will I do it again? I am not so sure about that (but, I know never to say never). The one thing this fear of being on-stage has given me is the amazing chance to direct. I love being the Director - not only because people have to do what I say, but because I have the ability to help bring an entire musical to life (and that is a VERY cool feeling).

So there you go... pictorial proof that I did it (and I am really glad I did - don't tell anyone)

third day in a row...

2011-01-03T20:49:00.000-05:00

Maybe if I force myself to sit down and write something every day, I will get back into the habit and produce something worth reading... well, that is the goal.

So, here is a tale from the Myers' household. Now it didn't actually happen today (it happened on the 23rd), but it is too good a story of "I told you so" not to tell...

Here is Olive...

This poor, little, super-tiny mouse was found in a bucket in my husband's classroom. My husband, lover of all animals with a very soft-heart, immediately caved to my children's begging to take care of the poor little baby mouse overnight until they could all release him in the park on Christmas Eve.

Andrew got a plastic cage, some bedding (borrowed from the classroom hedgehog), food and water and set up a nice little home for the mouse. The children then named the mouse "Olive" and they happily brought it home to me. I really tried to believe my husband when he said he would release the mouse with the kids in the morning. I begged him repeatedly to make sure that it wouldn't get out of the cage (where our cat, Clark, could get it). I was repeatedly assured that my worries were pointless and this was going to be a great experience for the kids.

Cut to Christmas Eve morning... Andrew and I are running around getting ready for my parents who are coming over for brunch and I stop by Matt's room (where Olive's cage spent the night). I say to Matt - "you sure he is still in there right" - Matt says "Oh Mom!" This happened two more times, when I finally went in his room and looked for Olive in the cage. I didn't see Olive anywhere. Andrew then comes in and reassures me that Olive is in the cage, just hiding. With that the search for Olive in the cage begins... Andrew searches and tells me all about how they like to dig and hide, etc, etc - then he sees it... the hole that Olive has chewed to get out of the cage. Andrew and I burst out laughing - Olive is out of the cage, somewhere in my house, and my parents are on their way over.

We did a pretty good search and decided that Olive must have gotten outside and gone to find her/his family. The kids seemed to be okay with that story - Andrew and I are wondering if Clark got a good snack that night. So the moral of this story is... if you put a mouse in a plastic cage, it will take less than 12 hours for said mouse to chew his/her way out. Never a dull moment...

last day of school break...

2011-01-02T22:21:00.009-05:00

Today was the saddest day of the year - so far...

The very last day of winter break and the sad realization that school starts in the morning. The kids took the news well. Especially since I was able to sneak in one more playdate for both of them. So our Christmas break ended with little girls singing karaoke at the top of their lungs and little boys building LEGO with great glee. A perfect Sunday afternoon!

All traces of Christmas have been removed from our house (with the exception of a single creche - hey, those kings need somewhere to go) and I am really looking forward to getting back into the daily routine. It never ceases to amaze me how big and uncluttered the house feels after the tree is gone. I just wish that feeling lasted for more than a couple of days.

I get one more day off before I have to return to work Tuesday... looking forward to a day of getting life back into order - grocery shopping, bank, house cleaning, etc.

happy new year...

2011-01-01T20:02:00.002-05:00

2011 was off to a rousing start in our household... NOT! Unfortunately, I spent New Year's Eve fast asleep nursing a bad cold and only Andrew made it see the ball drop. By mid-day, dearest husband dragged me out of bed saying that I would feel better if I got up (I really hate it when he is right) ;-)

So off on a family adventure to usher in a new year - The Diner for breakfast, duck-pin bowling, Tangled, and some shopping...

Just in case you thought someone might want to take home the fancy shoes...

Why, yes - that does say I won!

it's all over...

2010-08-01T18:54:00.002-04:00

Wow! Time has flown by since my last post over here. Andrew is loving working at camp this summer (and the kids LOVE attending).

This weekend we performed Annie for the last time. It was a wild ride all summer - double cast of orphans = really noisy rehearsals, a dog that pulled through for us at the last minute, all sorts of drama on stage and off and it all equaled more fun than I could possibly put into words.

Saying good-by to this show was strange for me in a lot of ways. For the first time, I wasn't sad when it was over. I really think I felt a lot of guilt over that. I should have been sad. After all, Andrew and Molly played the leads, Matt finally joined the chorus, I got much closer to friends, and I love actually putting these shows together. Why didn't I cry at the end?

I now think it is because I know - this isn't the end. When Sound of Music ended, I worried they would never let me do this again. When The Music Man ended, I worried I would never speak to all those new friends again. Now, with two years under my belt - I know that I will do this again and my friends will be there for me when I do.

Now that I have said this, double-casting Annie (and the orphans) brought many challenges that I don't think I will ever want to live through again - and both Annies/sets of orphans were wonderful! BUT - my Molly as Annie - it truly made my heart sing to be able to give her that experience. The first night she was Annie - she was SO nervous, I wanted to be sick for her. But, two or three scenes in she found her way and immediately everyone in the audience knew - this kid was having a good time. By her third night on-stage, she was unstoppable. I really couldn't have been any prouder of her. I am so glad I could be a part of it.

Now that it is all over, I really do hope to be posting more. Talk soon!

well, it's summer...

2010-06-24T17:37:00.000-04:00

Annie is in full swing, the kids have been home for two weeks, I am trying to work full-time... no time to spend over here. Oops!

Life continues forward - I will post rehearsal pictures soon. Right now, I have no time to take pictures because I am running around like a lunatic - but, I am hoping to move to the next phase shortly. The one where the director doesn't spend 3 hours nightly barking orders. I am such a dictator. :)

So that is the update for now. Hopefully more soon.

Stone Soup...

2010-05-20T22:08:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is the Junior Kindergarten production of Stone Soup - A Rock Opera. I can hardly wait!

I wanted to make the kids aprons for all the cooking they have to do - but of course didn't think about it or start the project until yesterday.

I found 20X26 dish towels at the dollar store, washed and ironed them, and then called Matt in to function as my model. Holding the towel up to him, I figured out how wide it would need to be at the top, added an inch to each side, and cut the towel at an angle.

I folded the cut edges over twice and hemmed it (leaving a channel to feed the ribbon through). I feed the ribbon through the channels and tied large beads to the end (so the JKers can't pull out the ribbons by accident).

I added each JKer's initial to the top and lined them up to go.

I am pretty pleased with how they turned out (and they were so easy, I turned out 8 of them in under 3 hours). Hopefully, I will remember to get a picture of all of them in their aprons.

However, I found out the the Kindergartners were coming to help the JKers sing some of the songs and I couldn't leave them empty handed. So...

I went to my Magical, Mystical Craft Closet and (as usual) it did not disappoint me. I pulled out some small stones, googly eyes, and glue. You know what I made? Of course you do, Pet Stones (okay, they were Pet Rocks - but they are doing Stone Soup, get it?) :)

I went back to the closet and found some Easter grass, small paper bags, and round label stickers. I made two stickers for each bag - one saying "Congratulations! Stone Soup 2010!" and the other "Caution! Pet Stone Inside". Voila! Instant Stone Soup Party Favors for everyone!

before and after...

2010-05-15T21:16:00.000-04:00

What is that horrendous picture? Well, it was the paint job in my bathroom. We moved into this house in August of 1999 and every day I walk into the bathroom and think...

I hate the paint in here - it is just HIDEOUS!

I have no idea why I have waited 10+ years to fix it - but finally, this morning - I couldn't take it for one more second and I decided to change it.

Here is what the paint looks like now....

I am going to replace the light fixture (I don't like that either) but somehow, without the ugly 90"s sponge paint, even the light fixture doesn't look so bad.

lunchbox woes...

2010-05-13T21:35:00.000-04:00

This is a lunchbox.

It is NOT just an ordinary lunchbox - this is the lunchbox that my mother gave to Molly her first day of pre-school - 7 years ago. Molly has used this lunchbox every day at school. She loved it. Well, we had a very sad morning this week, when the zipper finally broke. :( Daisy lunchbox, you have served us well for 7 years. We will miss you.

Mother's Day...

2010-05-09T22:20:00.000-04:00

It was a lovely Mother's Day. Andrew and the kids spoiled me with jewelry, funny cards, and a SPIDER CATCHER! LOL!!! I loved it!

Here is this year's crop of gifts that the kids made their Grandmas...

Matt - I asked him to draw me a pretty picture for Grandma.

He drew a girl walking through a field of flowers with a scarecrow. I was supposed to know he was a scarecrow because or the crows in the air and the fact Matt drew an arrow and three lines (I thought it was a Freddy Kruger reference) but it was the wind blowing straw out of his shirt.

I took the picture to Kinkos. They were able to scan the picture, resize it, print it, and glue into pads. Adorable! I added a magnetic strip to the back so his Grandmas can hang them on the fridge.

The only regret I have is not having Matthew sign his work (oops). I did put a sticker on the back of the pad with Matt's name and date.

I was so pleased with these, that when I went to look at the proof - I had them make an extra one for me! :)

Molly - I wanted to give her a project that was easy enough for her to feel successful, but let her have total design control. Both Grandmas like to hang flower wreaths on their front doors, so it seemed like a good choice.

At Michaels we picked up 14" wreaths and lovely red, yellow, and orange daisies (Molly's favorite colors) that were on sale. A little hot glue and we were off!

Molly did a great job of putting together two very different, but beautiful wreaths.

ECGC Academy...

2010-05-07T22:38:00.000-04:00

Elm City Girl's Choir had the first concert of their Spring Festival Week tonight. Molly is finishing her first year in the Academy Division. She has really grown musically this year and has gone from "liking choir" to "LOVING CHOIR".

I am looking forward to many more concerts with ECGC!

where my kids will spend their summer...

2010-05-02T16:35:00.000-04:00

Kind of makes me wish I was a kid. We spent the afternoon touring the camp my children will spend 8 weeks this summer. It was hard to convince the children to get back into the car and come home. Swimming, boating, fishing, arts and crafts, drama, etc. what could possibly be better? Oh yeah, the pony ride Matt had!

T-Ball

2010-05-01T22:49:00.000-04:00

Just a couple of pictures from Matt's first day of t-ball.

friends...

2010-04-30T21:00:00.001-04:00

Tonight we invited friends over for dinner. Their children and ours get along so well! This is a picture I took of the girls' beloved dolls, that were carefully arranged so they could "watch" the girls as they played.

the difference 3 months makes...

2010-04-29T20:55:00.002-04:00

The tree in my front yard...

February 16, 2010

April 29, 2010

we got Annie...

2010-04-13T21:50:00.000-04:00

After a long weekend of auditions (and MANY laughs with new and old friends), I have finally finished the cast list. In the end, I am really happy with all of the choices and am looking forward to spending my summer in a cold NYC winter during the Great Depression.

We decided to double-cast every orphan part. This gives every girl a chance to shine and I couldn't be happier about it. It also means we have two Annies. The two girls have worked together before in the Sound of Music and both have a great outlook about getting to share this special role.

Why the cake? Well, it turns out "I got Annie!" (to quote Grace Farrell and Oliver Warbucks). That's right, my daughter will be Annie for 3 of the 6 performances and I couldn't be prouder of her.

The night I posted the cast list (http://www.stthomasplayers.com/), I picked up this cake and called my parents and asked them to tell her that she got the part. Molly always enjoys talking to her Grandparents on the phone and teasing with them about everything! So when her Grandma and Grandpa told her she got the part of Annie - her first response was "you're making that up", which turned into her saying "really?" about 20 times, and finally screams of joy as I brought the cake out.

She then called her friend who will also be Annie and they had a conversation which most of could only be heard by neighborhood dogs.

Working with all these girls this summer - I am going to need earplugs, but I can't wait!

Flower Cupcakes...

2010-04-05T15:36:00.000-04:00

My mother-in-law made the most adorable cupcakes for Easter and I just had to share them
(1. because they were WAY cute, and 2. because I didn't do anything that interesting for this holiday).

She did get the idea from a magazine (sorry, I don't know which one) but here is the basic idea.

1. Make your favorite very yummy cupcakes.
2. Make Rice Krispie treats in a pan.
3. Frost your cupcakes and add died coconut (green, of course).
4. Cut flower shapes out of your Rice Krispie treats (I have heard that if you spray your cookie cutter first with a non-stick spray - it will work much easier).
5. Put your flowers on lollipop sticks (can be found at craft stores).
6. Attach colorful m&ms, jordan almonds, gum drops, etc. with a dab of frosting to decorate your flowers (see picture above).
7. You can add a spearmint leave as decoration, as well.

These were a huge hit. My mother-in-law did say that it was a little time-consuming to make them (but we all thought it was WELL worth the effort)!

Williamsburg, who knew?

2010-03-26T16:10:00.000-04:00

Who knew Williamsburg, Virginia could be so much fun?
We didn't, but - we do now!!!

Here is Matt with his "magic" tin flute. According to the man who sold it to him, it was "magic" because if Matt played it inside or on a bus it would disappear!

Molly learned traditional dances.

There was cannon fire on the green (with the occasional interruption for passing squirrels).

The kids laughed and had fun the whole time.
I wholeheartedly recommend Williamsburg for vacation! :)

very quick St. Patrick's Day cupcakes...

2010-03-16T22:27:00.001-04:00

These are my very quick, last minute St. Patrick's Day cupcakes.
The time on the clock was 6:45pm when my darling son said "Mom, would you PLEASE make cupcakes for school tomorrow?" I can't resist this kid when he is being so cute! Add that to the fact that his teacher is my husband - I asked "do you want cupcakes for tomorrow?" and my husband said "YES!" Here is what I made...

I always seem to have a box of cupcake mix and a tub of frosting when I need one. (Thank goodness for that). I rummaged through by baking stuff and found gold cupcake wrappers and green sugar. Figuring that anything else I found would just be a bonus, after starting the cupcakes I searched my office supplies and found round stickers.

I used Microsoft Word and added clip art to the stickers (making twice as many as I needed). Once printed, I sandwiched a toothpick between two stickers and had cute little cupcake picks.

Matt very carefully placed each pick into the cupcakes. He did an excellent job!

Mattisms...

2010-02-23T18:22:00.002-05:00

I love this boy - he is constantly dirty, always noisy and nosey, and filled with great excitement about everything. So here are some new (and some not-so-new) Mattisms...

Driving through Hartford, Matt saw a factory with a working smoke stack -

Matt: Mom, Dad LOOK!!!!! There is the cloud factory!
Andrew: The what?
Matt: The cloud factory! Where all the clouds are made! There it is and I FINALLY got to see where clouds come from. That is the coolest thing EVER!"

At the American Girl Doll Store later that same day - Matt runs out of the Men's Room...

Matt: You know how I said that the cloud factory was the coolest thing ever? Well... I was wrong... THE HAND DRYER IN THE BATHROOM IS AWESOME!!!! (yup, hand dryer beats cloud production)

******************************************************************************
Matt talking to one of his teachers...

Matt: Mrs. Phillips, I have to tell you something.
Mrs. Phillips: What?
Matt: You have to get closer so I can whisper in your ear. (Mrs. Phillips gets closer and Matt sings in her ear) bow-chicka-wow-wow, chicka-wow-wow.

******************************************************************************
Matt Christmas Morning 2009

Matt was so excited he kept yelling and announcing everything that we would pull out of our stockings. It got to be so funny we let him open all the stockings - my favorite was...

Matt: Dad look a TOOTHBRUSH (looking at the package he comes over to me and says) Mom, what does this say?
Me: with whitening action
Matt: OH MY GOD! SANTA BROUGHT YOU A TOOTHBRUSH WITH WHITENING ACTION!

*******************************************************************************
We took in a tiny kitten (approx. 3 weeks old) that had been abandoned and tried to nurse it back to health, unfortunately she didn't survive and we all took it very hard. Many tears were shed and Molly took it hardest of all.

While Molly was still very sad, Matt put his hand on her shoulder and said "now Lola will be watching over you forever from heaven".

Needless to say, there were many more tears from Andrew and I after that.

*******************************************************************************
Matt after a particularly hard day of school...

Matt: Mom, I am very tired and need to lay down - my teacher expected me to count bottle caps AND draw an exploding monkey!

*******************************************************************************
Matt after another hard day at school...

Matt: Mom, I wish I was Jesus Christ - then I could make the world exactly how I want it. (apparently he didn't get enough LEGO time)

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I told Matt I was going to call him Chewbacca - he said...

Matt: You can't! I'm not half-bear and naked with a gun!!!

LEGO Robotics Champs!

2010-02-20T16:34:00.000-05:00

Molly and six other students from St. Thomas Day School went to a LEGO Robotics competition today (the school's first time participating) and they did great! They won first place in the "Knock It Off" competition (their robot had to follow the course and knock rubber balls off pedestals) and second place in the "Gauntlet" competition (their robot needed to follow the course and compelte tasks.

We are so proud of them! What a great job they did!!!!

In this picture, Molly is putting the finishing touches on their "Showcase" entry. It was a mama bird and baby birds that chirped and flapped their wings.

Heart Crayons and Tissue Cover Valentines...

2010-02-13T17:33:00.016-05:00

Here are the valentines we will be handing out this year...

Since Andrew is a Junior Kindergarten teacher, he ALWAYS has tissues in his pocket. So after seeing MANY variations of these on Martha Stewarts website and countless blogs... here is my version of the tissue holder. I made these with felt and quick sewed them up on my machine. The letters were felt stickers. I printed the silly knock-knock joke (and tried to make them look like tissues coming out of the package and we were good to go.

One version
Martha's Version

For Matt, we made the recycled crayon hearts (again seen on countless blogs everywhere).

Click here for instructions from Make and Takes.

I broke up old stubby crayons into small bits and made sure to remove all the paper wrappers. Then put the crayons into a heart shape mold and bake in the oven at 275 degrees for about 10-15 minutes (the better brand of crayon, the faster it melted).

The only thing that I would add to the many other bloggers who have been doing this project this year is the following...

1. The bottoms of these are UGLY. I was so upset when I took these out of the oven, they were so gross looking - I thought I had messed the whole thing up! BUT once you pop them out of their molds - they are really cute.

2. I used a silicone pan and I would suggest that everyone do the same. I don't think you could pop them out otherwise.

Enjoy...

today, we played hooky...

2010-01-10T21:07:00.007-05:00

This morning, Andrew and I decided to play hooky. We told the kids to get ready for church and put them in the car. As soon as Molly realized we weren't heading towards church, the questions started. Where are we going? Why aren't we going to church? (I love that my kids are disappointed when we don't go to church). We told them it was a surprise adventure and to enjoy the ride.

We then drove to Deerfield, Massachusetts to Magic Wings (a butterfly conservatory) and the Yankee Candle "Scenter of the Universe" Store (I know - the name is ridiculous, but it is SO much fun).

Molly looking for butterflies.

Me playing with my fancy new camera.

Andrew is excited to have a butterfly land on him.

Molly makes some new friends.

Matt and Molly thank Santa for their Christmas presents.Here was how Matt's conversation with Santa went...
Matt - "Thanks Santa for the pwesents." (yeah, he still has no R's and it is still cute)
Santa - "Well I should thank you too, want to know why?"
Matt - "I already know, for the cookies and milk"
Santa - "Well, I was going to say for being such good kids."
Matt - "You should say thank you for the cookies and milk."

Matt finds his personal heaven (a LEGO table with no other kids at it).

Molly didn't want to play LEGO, instead she organized all the Smurf displays.

The princess and prince are in.

Molly and Matt AMAZED that it can snow inside a building (until Matt announces VERY loudly that he is sure it's not snow "It's SPIT mom!!!!")

Matt chooses a snack.

Can't go to Yankee Candle without making a candle, right?

and the summer musical is...

2010-01-09T09:13:00.006-05:00

We announced last night at a potluck dinner and it was GREAT to see so many people there! We also watched the movie (the Disney 1999 version - not the 1982 version) and enjoyed singing along with our favorite numbers.

If you want to watch the movie to get an idea of the show I recommend the 1999 version, it is closer to the script.

Here is the FAQ and Character List I handed out last night (click on the images to enlarge them)...

I'm Baaacckkk!!!!

2010-01-09T09:11:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I never have time to post aroud the holidays. Maybe I'll backdate some posts so there at least will be photos of our holiday adventures. Yeah, probably not. I am pretty lazy.

:)

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T22:41:00.000-04:00

Hope your evening was filled with treats and not tricks...

a new blog...

2009-10-22T20:24:00.002-04:00

I started a new blog today for the company I work for. Check it out...

Conference Center Gurus

As you can see, I really did JUST start it today - but keep checking in, lots of good stuff to come!

Matt's letter to Santa...

2009-10-20T20:47:00.000-04:00

Dear Santa,

I would like to be a scientist. So I need...
- Markers
- Paper
- A case of rubber bands
- A computer that will fit in my pocket with games that just play and you don't have to wait for them to download
- Gloves (winter and scientist gloves)
- Ipod (in blue, of course)
- Ipod charger (‘cause it won't work without one and if it dies I need a charger to help it)
- Snuggie and pillow pet (but don't ask Grandma 'cause I think she wants to get me one)
- Lego cool doors and windows and stuff
- A puppy (but it has to be bigger than my cats - unless you take my cats, then it can be any size)
- 8 or more bakugans
- Pizza lunchables, at least 6 - we eat lunch EVERY day
- Different color paper - red, blue, orange, pink (for when the brain explodes because I am a scientist), and yellow and green and black (for the heart)
-White paper for bones
- Scissors for cutting the bones
- wii games
- Water (in case I get thirsty)
- Chocolate covered strawberries or the chocolate for Dad to do it
- the 3rd X-Men movie
- New shoes – ‘cause I need z-straps and school shoes
- Winter hat (‘cause I already have a Star Wars hat from when I fought the real Darth Vader from the movies and didn’t die)
- A tent with Darth Vader’s picture
- Gardening supplies – like seeds and flowers
- Helmet for Buzz Lightyear costume for next Halloween that can slide up and down like the real Buzz LIghtyear
- The Buzz Lightyear yogurts for my school lunches
- Sticky foam and tracers
- Magnets for our refrigerator
- Hairbrush
- Magnifying glass
- Ninja turtle toy – WITH movie
- Picture frame with a little stand thing
- Drumset and electric guitar

My mom needs
- A house with more than one bathroom
- Catfood
- More Halloween decorations

Everyone needs
- Sunscreen
- Water
- More cheese (‘cause we may run out)
- Apples, bananas, and strawberries (so Dad can dip them in chocolate)

Thanks Santa – I know you will never die ‘cause God made you that way.

Love, Matt

(Good luck Santa!)

guess what this is...

2009-10-19T20:49:00.000-04:00

It is the hood of my car - covered in ICE!!!! I can't believe it is really only October 19th - even my car door was frozen shut. First snow on the 15th, now this...

I am SO not ready for winter yet...

He's not a baby anymore...

2009-10-12T21:01:00.000-04:00

Matt did it! He made it through his first DOUBLE FEATURE! Woo Hoo!!!!

We saw Toy Story and Toy Story 2 and he made it through both movies with flying colors. (He even tried to get me to take him to another one.)

I really am thrilled that he is growing up and is so much fun to hang out with... but I miss the little Matt who couldn't sit still if we crazy-glued his pants to a chair. Sigh, growing up is hard (on the parents).

gift from a little visitor...

2009-10-02T20:34:00.000-04:00

I had to bring the kids to work with me for a few hours this morning. It was the first time I had ever attempted it - it wasn't the end of the universe.

Matt quickly settled into his breakfast and coloring in the conference room where there is a tv with the Disney Channel. Don't ask me why we have the Disney Channel at work, I don't even know why we have a tv. The last time we turned it on was to watch the inauguration and I don't think it was ever used before then.

Molly quickly finished her breakfast and began looking for things to do. She completely cleaned my office! It hasn't been that clean since... well, I have no idea when - it looks GREAT!

All too quickly (for them), Andrew came to pick them up and their adventure in my office was over. Although, it wasn't until much later in the day when I went to make sure that the conference room was as clean as the kids had found it - I found this great little present on the whiteboard...

Halloween Candy Dish Witch...

2009-09-19T10:21:00.001-04:00

This is a true family tradition in my house, the Halloween Candy Dish Witch (say that 5 times fast - LOL).

Approximately 35 years ago, my mother saw this craft in BH&G or Woman's Day or some other magazine just like that and made this...

Yes, this is the original glass Mom made many moons ago and she put it out in her house every year for Halloween until about 5 years ago when she passed the torch to me. I have happily carried on the tradition.

I have no idea what kind of glue she used but those are the original googly eyes and construction paper mouth (and they are cemented to the glass). ;)

Next you need to make her a hat...

I cut two different size circles, cut a slit in one to fold it into a cone, and stapled/glued together to make her hat. I also added a piece of orange ribbon as a hat band and curly ribbon in several colors for hair (my Mom used to make her hair from drinking straws).

Fill her with candy (usually we use candy corn, but I didn't have any in house). Luckily, I did have some gross-looking gummy worms.

super easy, super quick, super hero capes...

2009-09-07T21:52:00.005-04:00

Anyone who knows Matt, knows the boy is obsessed with superheroes! I couldn't let him grow up without a decent cape - seriously, what kind of mother would I be. ;)

Looking in my magical craft closet, I found a couple of yards of felt (that I am sure I bought for some wonderful project idea, which was forgotten and never came to be) and I was off. I worked without a pattern. I just held the felt up to Matt and trimmed it to fit. (The picture below shows the final shape.) I then went to Google and found Superman and Batman's logos to copy...

I think they were a huge hit with Matt!

Now I am off to make a few more (for the JK and Kindergarten rooms' dress-up corners.

how to make a four year old boy happy...

2009-09-05T22:02:00.000-04:00

Matt felt that the ABC vinyl wall stickers around his room were "too babyish" for him (his words, not mine) and that he would like "superhero walls". I gave him the typical Mom response "let me think about it" and promptly forgot all about it.

UNTIL...

Standing on line at the Post Office a couple of weeks ago, they had these great superhero stamp postcards on sale!

I found these removeable wall mounting tabs and hung the post cards around his room...

Matt jumped up and down and screamed - he was SO EXCITED! He has only told me about 45 times this weekend how much better his room is. May he always be this easy to please!

First week of school...

2009-09-02T21:29:00.008-04:00

Sometimes life surprises you...

I planned on sending my children back to public school this week and in a period of 24 hours changed my mind and re-enrolled them at St. T's. This feels like the right decision in so many ways (except for in my pocketbook). I have spent my entire week filling out forms, driving around New Haven and gathering information.

Molly and Matt took the change in stride and dealt with it far better than I ever could.

Here are the kids heading off to the official first day of 4th Grade/JK orientation...

...of course, Cookie came along!

Matt's orientation went well...

Although, apparently he and Ryan thought the bagpipes in Chapel were WAY too loud!

The kids this morning (Matt's first "official" day of JK)...

Rainy Saturday...

2009-08-29T13:57:00.000-04:00

Believe it or not, we have nothing to do today!

It is a rainy Saturday and Matt would like to go camping. Some twine and a sheet and Matt was in business (even if at first he thought it was a girl's tent because it was pink).

adventure...

2009-08-21T22:08:00.002-04:00

We threw the kids in the car this morning and headed out to the Boston Museum of Science. After a few wrong turns (stupid iPhone GPS), we arrived. The kids worked their way through every exhibit - what amazed me most is the way they were both able to enjoy the exhibits differently. Matt would be immediately drawn to what ever puzzle, computer, hands-on thing he could find and Molly would find the more involved problem-solving exhibits and read every sign she could find.

We had planned to spend the morning there and then head over to the Boston Children's Museum, as you can see from the picture of the outside of the museum - we didn't leave until well after dark.

We are already planning our next trip (which I am sure will include the Harry Potter exhibit opening this fall).

40th birthday survival kit...

2009-08-15T17:24:00.000-04:00

I am off to a 40th birthday tonight (and the invitation said NO PRESENTS). We couldn't show up empty handed and decided to put together a little something for the guest of honor.

40th Birthday Survival Kit Poem (which is a compilation of several I found over the Internet)

Surviving 40

40 pennies - for 40 good wishes
40 paperclips - to hold things together
40 Hershey kisses - to use at your discretion
40 rubber bands - to remind you to give tight hugs
40 sheets of paper - to write the next chapter in your life
40 toothpicks - to pick out the good in everyone/thing
40 garbage bags - to get rid of old garbage/baggage
40 marbles - spares for when you lose your own
40 erasers - to wipe out mistakes you've made
40 lollipops - for when life sucks
40 matches - to light your way

Happy Birthday!

I collected 40 of each item (the dollar store was GREAT for this) and made up little bags of items. I didn't bag the Hershey Kisses and used them as "filler".

I bought a clear plastic paint can (at Michaels), decorated with paper and stickers, then filled the can with the little "gifts".

This project was easy, inexpensive, and really cute!

it's all over...

2009-08-12T23:05:00.003-04:00

The Music Man has been a fun ride. There have been MANY ups and downs over the past 8 months as we talked about/worked on/performed The Music Man and in many ways I am as happy to see it go as I am sad.

The time has come for me to take a step back again and spend time with my family, but I miss working with the incredibly talented and special people who have been working tirelessly to make the show happen.

It goes without saying that I cried many times closing night. The cast bought me (and the producer and stage manager) a charm bracelet for us with a goat (Sound of Music) and a coronet (The Music Man). They then pointed out that there was room to fill the bracelets with many more shows together - we just may take them up on that. The things they said about us were so very nice - it was really overwhelming.

Then we had to say goodbye to a dear, dear friend - he says he may be back next summer to be in the show - I am having a hard time imagining this show without him. He has been the best Music Director anyone could ask for and (more importantly) he always remained neutral whenever Mo and I were not seeing eye-to-eye.

The notes and letters I received tonight from cast and crew members reminded me why I turn my life upside down for months... because, although I often get caught up in how the show affects me and my life, it is way bigger than that. This very young theater group is affecting people's lives in many different ways... it could be introducing them to a new church that is radically welcoming, helping someone remember who they really are, whole families working towards a goal together (including teenagers), or just showing someone they may have a hidden talent.

Thanks to the cast and crew. Thanks for the memories and the reminder that there is a ripple effect to everything we do. Goodnight, my someone...

Mattism...

2009-08-08T23:36:00.000-04:00

My father had triple by-pass surgery this Thursday. He has been recovering quite well and the kids have been begging to go see him. Since he is out of the ICU and only has an IV still attached to him - Andrew and I figured this was as good a time as any to take the kids down to the hospital.

Molly, my surgeon in-training, was very quiet when she saw Grandpa. He offered to show off his scar and told her that they even closed him up with superglue instead of a needle and thread or staples, but she was really taken aback by the fact that this wasn't something on the Discovery Channel - this was real and this was her Grandpa. She just stood at the end of his bed and never took her eyes off of him.

Matt, on the other hand, was a little braver and ventured a little closer to him. Just close enough to touch the IV tubing and then run back to his chair. After doing this a couple of times, Grandpa asked him if he was okay. Matt didn't answer. Instead, he whispered in his Dad's ear, "how can I be okay, my Grandpa is hurt".

That kid never ceases to amaze me. He is the roughest kid on the planet - jumping around and bouncing off of the walls without even slowing down, but his heart is SO big that the thought of his Grandpa being hurt stops him in his tracks. I love that boy!

last rehearsal...

2009-07-29T23:28:00.002-04:00

Last few dress rehearsal photos. The show starts on Friday. I can't wait - these people have worked so hard and they are so ready for this. Here's hoping the weather cooperates (since our church isn't air-conditioned).

tech rehearsal...

2009-07-27T23:23:00.000-04:00

Here are a few shots from our Technical rehearsal. Honestly, we are having SO MUCH FUN!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi or Turkey Sushi?

2009-07-24T14:26:00.000-04:00

The deeper into summer we get, the more creative we become in finding ways to keep our kids eating well.

Andrew found these in a kids cookbook (although I have also seen them on many recipe websites). But here is our super-duper easy sushi rolls...

Cut the crust off of a piece of bread. Roll the bread thin. Put on whatever filling you like (in our house we like PB&J or Turkey). Roll the bread and filling up. Slice into "sushi-sized" pieces. Serve with chopsticks. Ridiculously easy - yes, but the kids love it.

promo shots...

2009-07-22T16:20:00.000-04:00

I know, I know... I have been so wrapped up in directing the Music Man - I haven't posted at all!

Here are some of the promo shots we took for the show...

newest member of the family...

2009-07-19T17:02:00.001-04:00

Meet Velcro, our hedgehog.

This cute little guy fits in the palm of my hand and is the sweetest little thing!

Matthew turns into Spiderman...

2009-07-16T22:57:00.000-04:00

So my crazy boy has never had his face painted before today. Weird, I know - but he would NEVER let anyone put "makeup" on him... until this lady said - she could turn him into Spiderman. He quickly jumped up in the chair and we were off!

Unfortunately, when it cam time to wash it off the tears were flowing... we were washing all of his superpowers away!

Molly goes to camp...

2009-07-12T21:15:00.000-04:00

It was a tough day today. I had to drop my baby off at camp. I really thought it would be hard for her... I was so wrong - it is WAY hard for me!

The camp is beautiful and she couldn't wait to get through all the signing in stuff so that she could get to her cabin.

She was a very good sport as her father and I stressed over the best way to hang the mosquito netting.

After her bunk was all set up she went off to the swim test (which she very quietly told me that it was okay if I wanted to stay and watch - I took that to mean she wasn't quite ready to let me go yet).

However, while at her swim test she met two little girls in her cabin and the giggling started IMMEDIATELY. She and her new friends ran up the hill and barely said good-bye to myself or the other two moms. I so wanted to yell... WAIT - I'm not ready. But, I guess that didn't matter, she was.

Here's hoping that she has a great week at camp!

Pizza Kabobs...

2009-07-05T09:05:00.000-04:00

While looking for something different to bring to a 4th of July party... my husband remembered these great snacks one mom from his class brought in.

PIZZA KABOBS!!!!

Want to know what they are made of...

We used sliced italian bread, grape tomatoes (cut in half), mozarella (cut in half), basil leaves (torn in smallish pieces), and olives. We came up with what we thought was the best mixture of the foods (tomato, basil, cheese, bread, olive, pepperoni, bread, tomato, basil, cheese, pepperoni, bread) and started putting them on skewers. We then placed them on a tray and drizzled olive oil over them... YUMMY!!!! One of the BEST parts of this project was the fact it was so easy my 9 year old had no trouble helping out.

What to do with all the left over bits (once you run out of bread), make a Pasta Salad!

Mattisms (just from this weekend)...

2009-06-28T18:20:00.003-04:00

According to Matt, a tornado is... when a big drill comes into the ground, then twists a lot, and then makes a giant hole.

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Matt: Dad, who was I named after?
Andrew: Your middle name is the same as my Dad's middle name.
Matt: I know that, who did you name me Matthew after.
Andrew: One of Jesus's friends.
Matt: Which one?
Andrew: Matthew.
Matt: Oh, okay.

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Molly: I want to go to Washington DC this summer.
Matt: Not me, I want to go to Washington BC.

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In a moment of exasperation...

Matt: For goodness snakes!

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Our neighbor put a large wooden cut out of Cap't. Jack in their front yard (to celebrate their daughter's high school graduation)...

Matt: "Mom, can we put a Peter Pan in our yard. That way everyone will know that they are safe. Peter Pan will protect us!"

2009-06-27T16:33:00.001-04:00

Rehearsals are moving right along and their is building excitement as we start putting togehter props, sets, and costumes. It is hard to believe that we have been talking about the Music Man since last August and we are one month away from show dates.

teacher gifts...

2009-06-24T23:49:00.001-04:00

What are these you ask? Why they are lanyards...

In looking for cute and easy ideas for teacher gifts (considering between the two kids - they have 20 teachers) I found this tutorial.

These lanyards came together rather quickly - and they really are cute (now I have to find some other material and make one for me).

Here they are all wrapped and ready to go (sorry for the HORRIBLE lighting - but because the sun has apparently gone on vacation permanently in Connecticut there is no natural lighting to be found).

We survived the sleepover...

2009-06-13T17:09:00.002-04:00

Molly's 9th Birthday was a blast! Those girls giggled and whispered all night long!

The table was set like this theme and was a huge hit with the girls.

Sugar covered cupcakes!

The girls enjoy dinner.

TWISTER! A birthday party staple.

I think she had a good time!

Music Man...

2009-06-10T17:18:00.000-04:00

I haven't been around much lately, the Music Man rehearsals have begun and free time no longer exists for me.

Here are a few rehearsal photos...

Matt plays Potato Head while the cast learns music

Noah runs a music rehearsal

The cast working on "Trouble"

Evensong...

2009-05-31T17:29:00.000-04:00

The children's choir sang with the adults this evening at Evensong. What a lovely service! I was so proud of all the kids - they did a great job.

Matt and the trophy...

2009-05-26T22:32:00.000-04:00

I finally was able to get a picture of Matt and trophy in front of the infamous "Salad" project. He was so proud (and so am I).

Sleepover Party Invitations

2009-05-17T21:30:00.001-04:00

I liked the look of the postcard invitations I did for the memorial service so much - I decided to use postcards for my daughter's upcoming birthday party. These are being hand-delivered, so I didn't have to leave space for addressing and stamps.

Simple - but, cute.

She loved this theme - so we are recreating it... pictures to follow!

500 voices...

2009-05-16T20:46:00.001-04:00

Did you ever wonder what 500 girls singing would sound like...

As usual, the UCS Spring Gala Concert was stunning. The girls are so talented and the setting is awesome (Woolsey Hall on the Yale Campus).

Sorry for the jumpy quality of the video - Matt kept bumping my arm. What did Matt do during most of the concert?

Science Fair!

2009-05-14T22:27:00.001-04:00

Both Molly and Matt were chosen to represent their classes at the New Haven Citywide Science Fair.

Matt's class project, "Lettuce" Stay Fresh, was about the best way to keep produce fresh when you bring it home from the store.

Molly's class project, Save the Landfill" experimented on the best way to throw away trash... compacting, recycling, etc.

The kids practiced talking about their projects for weeks. Begging Andrew and I to ask them questions so they would be ready for the judges. The school had a mock science fair on Monday with teachers acting as judges. The kids read and were read to about their projects - so Wednesday morning when they went off to the fair... they were READY!

Matt came home exhausted. He told me that they just kept making him talk about being the freshest. Molly was excited retelling me every moment of the day. Molly's teahcer, Mr. Rodriguez, was over the moon!!!! He was very excited because, although each project was to be judged by three judges... EIGHT judges came to talk with Molly and her partner Gizelle.

Tonight was the Awards Ceremony. Matt was beat from a busy week and Andrew kept him home. I took Molly over to the Ceremony early, where we met her teachers and fellow science fair presenters. The teachers took the kids (and their grown-ups out for pizza at Wall Street Pizza - yummy).

Finally it was time to go to the ceremony. They started with the Pre-K and we were thrilled to learn that Matt's class won Second Place! Woohoo!!!!

Then we waited through kindergarten, 1st grade, 2nd grade, and FINALLY it was time for the 3rd grade awards.

How it worked was that every kid got called on stage starting with honorable mentions then 3rd place, 2nd place, and 1st place. It felt as if there were a million 3rd grade projects and as we made it through all of the honorable mentions the excitement began to build.

Then they announced 3rd place - and it wasn't us. I thought that Molly's teachers were going to explode.

Then they announced 2nd place - it wasn't us.

All of the sudden it hit Molly...

Then they announced the 1st place winners and the kids heard their names...

Molly, Gizelle, Mr. Rodriguez, and even our prinicipal Mrs. Wells and Superintendent Dr. Mayo got excited over the win (not to mention one proud Mama who was screaming for the kids!!!)

Molly and Matt have been flying on Cloud Nine today! They got to make special announcements over the school pager system and had special parties to celebrate in their classrooms. What a great experience for them!!!!

An evening concert...

2009-05-12T20:56:00.000-04:00

Tonight was Molly's UCS (United Choir School) Spring Ensemble Concert. Two divisions of the school get together and put on a small concert every night of this week, then on Saturday - the entire school (over 500 girls) gets together for a concert at Woolsey Hall on Yale's Campus. It is really quite the sight to see - all these girls working together.

What a day...

2009-05-10T20:59:00.000-04:00

Here's hoping that everyone had a nice Mother's Day!

We spent the day with family - seeing my Mom at church and then my Mother-in-Law in the afternoon. After an indoor picnic (way too windy to eat outside) - we piled in the car to enjoy one of South Windsor's beautiful parks...

Do you know how many people can fit in a Hallmark Store...

2009-05-09T20:49:00.001-04:00

I finally made it to the Hallmark store today to buy gift bags and cards for Mother's Day. I can honestly say I have never seen so many people inside one little Hallmark store. It was amazing! What was even stranger was that they were all standing in front of one little section of cards - no one was looking at birthday cards... or anniversary cards... or baptism cards - they were all squeezed in like sardines in front of the Mother's Day cards.

While there may have been more people than allowed by the Fire Marshall - their mothers would all have been proud, everyone was acting quite politely. (Although I found the perfect cards, gift bags were few and far between in the store... I actually took these two right out of the store window - HA!)

Happy Mother's Day to all!!!!

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

2009-05-05T20:31:00.000-04:00

Hope you all celebrated the day!

Molly and Matt's school had a HUGE celebration for the day! Dancers, singers and class presentations. Matt got up in front of the whole school and sang a song! I was so surprised - I forgot to take pictures!

Afterwards, we (the PTO) brought ice cream to go with churros (yummy) for every kid.

All, in all - a fun day!

Hard to believe she's old enough...

2009-05-03T18:14:00.001-04:00

but, Molly wants to go to Girl Scout Camp for a whole week! We went to Camp Laurel's open camp day and she LOVED it!

The camp grounds are lovely and they have tons for girls to do - but she loved the fact that they serve peanut butter and jelly at every meal!

So now, I really need to start saving those pennies (quickly).