Great Lakes Christmas Ale!
Honorable mention to Breckenridge Christmas Ale and Thirsty Dog's 12 Dogs of Christmas
My least favorite was Bell's.
Luckily there are still plenty of Winter Ales to indulge in, till March...
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Friday, December 25, 2009
Sahil & Samira's Christmas Highlights
-Dancing to ‘Hot Chocolate” from Polar Express, and watching it over and over again
-“YIGHTS” every time we passed a twinkly lit home
-“MORE YIGHTS” when we pass the lighted house
-Sahil told me “eating cracker and glue” at snack time. I was a little concerned till I realized it was graham crackers with frosting.
-Making gingerbread houses
-Making gingerbread boys and girls
-Snuggling on the sofa with Mommy, watching Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph and Polar Express.
-“Kindee-cane”
-“Presents!”
-Opening presents with so much excitement
-Insisting on playing whatever they opened right away, and for a long while.
-Scared of “Shanta” at first but loved seeing him from a distance at the mall
-“Snowy Day!” i.e. the book. When they woke up to snow.
-Paring down my bulb ornaments by at least half.
-Listening to Christmas Carols at home and in the car and trying to sing along
-Singing at STRS’s holiday lunch
-Seeing the holiday train display at the library
-Driving through Fantasy of Lights at Alum Creek.
-Playing with all the friends and family that stopped by or that we visited during the holidays
-Lots of hugs, kisses, and fun during our time off at home!
-“YIGHTS” every time we passed a twinkly lit home
-“MORE YIGHTS” when we pass the lighted house
-Sahil told me “eating cracker and glue” at snack time. I was a little concerned till I realized it was graham crackers with frosting.
-Making gingerbread houses
-Making gingerbread boys and girls
-Snuggling on the sofa with Mommy, watching Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph and Polar Express.
-“Kindee-cane”
-“Presents!”
-Opening presents with so much excitement
-Insisting on playing whatever they opened right away, and for a long while.
-Scared of “Shanta” at first but loved seeing him from a distance at the mall
-“Snowy Day!” i.e. the book. When they woke up to snow.
-Paring down my bulb ornaments by at least half.
-Listening to Christmas Carols at home and in the car and trying to sing along
-Singing at STRS’s holiday lunch
-Seeing the holiday train display at the library
-Driving through Fantasy of Lights at Alum Creek.
-Playing with all the friends and family that stopped by or that we visited during the holidays
-Lots of hugs, kisses, and fun during our time off at home!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Christmas Village
Ever since I saw my neighbor's Christmas village when I was a little kid, I always told myself I'd have a Christmas village of my own one day. I LOVE them!
A couple weeks ago I used all my Kohls cash and coupons and bought 3 Christmas village buildings that were so so cute. I bought a row of shops which included a hardware store and a shoe store, an Irish pub and a Pharmacy thinking I'd start a Christmas village display and add on every year. I also picked up snow cover, a plug, and a village tree at Walmart. I brought it all home and set it up on the foyer table. I thought it looked so cute and wonderful! Chetan walked by it and said "looks nice, Grandma." How rude... Then the monkeys saw it and stood there and stared at it forever, like in a trance. They wouldn't move away or even look away...and I couldn't leave them because I was scared they'd touch something and break it. So...I returned it all. But I do love Christmas villages....maybe I'll try again one day, maybe when I AM a grandma!
A couple weeks ago I used all my Kohls cash and coupons and bought 3 Christmas village buildings that were so so cute. I bought a row of shops which included a hardware store and a shoe store, an Irish pub and a Pharmacy thinking I'd start a Christmas village display and add on every year. I also picked up snow cover, a plug, and a village tree at Walmart. I brought it all home and set it up on the foyer table. I thought it looked so cute and wonderful! Chetan walked by it and said "looks nice, Grandma." How rude... Then the monkeys saw it and stood there and stared at it forever, like in a trance. They wouldn't move away or even look away...and I couldn't leave them because I was scared they'd touch something and break it. So...I returned it all. But I do love Christmas villages....maybe I'll try again one day, maybe when I AM a grandma!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Winter Beer list
This year I started drinking winter beers a little early. A friend brought over Bell's and Breckenridge Christmas Ale, and I couldn't resist. I usually wait till after Thanksgiving (you must respect the bird!) but...oh well!
We also picked up 2 six packs of Great Lakes' Christmas Ale from World Market, and a few single bottles of Christmas and winter Ales from Whole Foods.
So far here is my list of tried:
Great Lakes Christmas Ale
Bell's Christmas Ale
Samuel Adams' Winter Lager
Breckenridge Christmas Ale
Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale
Blue Moon Full Moon
Rogue - ?
Thirsty Dogs Christmas Ale
Christmas Ales make me sooo happy! Christmas happy!
We also picked up 2 six packs of Great Lakes' Christmas Ale from World Market, and a few single bottles of Christmas and winter Ales from Whole Foods.
So far here is my list of tried:
Great Lakes Christmas Ale
Bell's Christmas Ale
Samuel Adams' Winter Lager
Breckenridge Christmas Ale
Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale
Blue Moon Full Moon
Rogue - ?
Thirsty Dogs Christmas Ale
Christmas Ales make me sooo happy! Christmas happy!
And the Fall beer winner is....
After spending over two months trying different 'Autumn" beers, I have a winner. The winner is Shipyard Brewing Co.'s Pumpkinhead Ale. A close second is Great Lakes Oktoberfest.
I've been trying to hold back on the winter beers till the day after Thanksgiving...but we did buy some Great Lakes Christmas Ale yesterday, and I might have tried the Breckenridge Christmas Ale last weekend...and had a Sam Adams' Winter lager at happy hour....but no one more till after T-day! You must respect the bird! Same reason I can't let myself listen to the Christmas music already playing on the radio. RESPECT THE BIRD!
I've been trying to hold back on the winter beers till the day after Thanksgiving...but we did buy some Great Lakes Christmas Ale yesterday, and I might have tried the Breckenridge Christmas Ale last weekend...and had a Sam Adams' Winter lager at happy hour....but no one more till after T-day! You must respect the bird! Same reason I can't let myself listen to the Christmas music already playing on the radio. RESPECT THE BIRD!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
"I pee in potty"
The monkeys are dping well in the toddler room now! The first week after transition they both got sick with a bad cold and fever, so thinsg were a little rough when they started back. But it's all good now!
Just a couple of weeks of being around potty trained and training friends, Sahil is all about using the potty! And now, a couple weeks after Samira's showing interest too! I wasn't ready for this, but I am so proud of my lil monkeys! We have a long way to go till they are potty trained, but we're moving in the right direction so far!
...and here I thought I would NEVER be the kind of mom that would announce such gross things as pooping and peeing in the potty....so much for that!
Just a couple of weeks of being around potty trained and training friends, Sahil is all about using the potty! And now, a couple weeks after Samira's showing interest too! I wasn't ready for this, but I am so proud of my lil monkeys! We have a long way to go till they are potty trained, but we're moving in the right direction so far!
...and here I thought I would NEVER be the kind of mom that would announce such gross things as pooping and peeing in the potty....so much for that!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Toddler Transition Day 2 and 3
My monkeys had great mornings in the toddler room on Tuesday and Wednesday! Yet they were just as happy to go back to the infant room afterwards. That made me so happy for some reason.... The last little boy who transitioned to the toddler room would stand by the room and cry when he came back to the Infant room. That must have made the infant teachesr feel real good...
Here's an email from one of their Toddler teachers:
From: Toddler2
Sent: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 2:27 PM
Subject: Sahil and Samira
I just wanted to send a quick e-mail to let you know what a wonderful transition the twins are having! They seem very at ease in their new environment and seem to enjoy exploring all the new ideas in the toddler room! They fit right in and are making new friends. I hope this helps ease your mind on how they are doing through-out their transition. Joselyn and I are enjoying getting to know them. They are so sweet! Have a good rest of the day!
Michelle
Here's an email from one of their Toddler teachers:
From: Toddler2
Sent: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 2:27 PM
Subject: Sahil and Samira
I just wanted to send a quick e-mail to let you know what a wonderful transition the twins are having! They seem very at ease in their new environment and seem to enjoy exploring all the new ideas in the toddler room! They fit right in and are making new friends. I hope this helps ease your mind on how they are doing through-out their transition. Joselyn and I are enjoying getting to know them. They are so sweet! Have a good rest of the day!
Michelle
Monday, October 12, 2009
Toddler Transition Day 1
Today Chetan and I drove together so I showed him around the monkeys' new Toddler room. I think he was having a hard time imagining our lil peanuts in that room, sleeping on cots, using the sink, eating at the table on their own...I know I did when I had my orientation for the room.
Today Sahil and Samira were supposed to go to the Toddler room from 8:30 to 9:30am. I went down there at 10:30, and they were still in the Toddler Room. Josslyn, one of the their teachers, said they were doing really well so they kept them longer. She said they sang songs, talked about the weather, read a book, had morning snack, painted pumpkins, and were now playing with play dough. I think that's more than we did all weekend! :) Sahil saw me, said hi, and then went back to his play dough, and same with Samira. I loved that, since in the Infant room they come running to me, hang onto me, whine and carry on if I don't hold them both...and then cry when I leave.
I think I'm more sad for myself about S&S leaving the Infant room. Two of their teachers are seasoned moms and have been there for ME every single day. They've given me advice, listened to my vents and stories, comforted me when I had meltdowns, and cuddled and loved my kiddos while I was at work. I am so grateful to have had such wonderful people taking care of my monkeys. I know the toddler teachers are just as wonderful, but I will still miss the infant room teachers so much. Yes, they are just a room away, but it's not the same....
Today Sahil and Samira were supposed to go to the Toddler room from 8:30 to 9:30am. I went down there at 10:30, and they were still in the Toddler Room. Josslyn, one of the their teachers, said they were doing really well so they kept them longer. She said they sang songs, talked about the weather, read a book, had morning snack, painted pumpkins, and were now playing with play dough. I think that's more than we did all weekend! :) Sahil saw me, said hi, and then went back to his play dough, and same with Samira. I loved that, since in the Infant room they come running to me, hang onto me, whine and carry on if I don't hold them both...and then cry when I leave.
I think I'm more sad for myself about S&S leaving the Infant room. Two of their teachers are seasoned moms and have been there for ME every single day. They've given me advice, listened to my vents and stories, comforted me when I had meltdowns, and cuddled and loved my kiddos while I was at work. I am so grateful to have had such wonderful people taking care of my monkeys. I know the toddler teachers are just as wonderful, but I will still miss the infant room teachers so much. Yes, they are just a room away, but it's not the same....
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Pumpkin!
I love all things Pumpkin! Pie, lattes, bread, cookies, ale....I'll stop before I sound too much like Bubba from Forrest Gump! "Shrimp salad, shrimp scampi...."
This morning my dear husband brewed a pot of coffee and surprised me with Pumpkin Pie Spice creamer! This evening my wonderful husband came home with a pint of Jeni's Heirloom Pumpkin 5-Spice. He is the best!
AND he's not even a big fan of pumpkin....
This morning my dear husband brewed a pot of coffee and surprised me with Pumpkin Pie Spice creamer! This evening my wonderful husband came home with a pint of Jeni's Heirloom Pumpkin 5-Spice. He is the best!
AND he's not even a big fan of pumpkin....
Monday, October 5, 2009
A Nice Fall Day
Ready to pick out our pumpkins
This past Saturday the weather was sunny, crisp, and dry. Who know how many more days of that we'll get, we decided to take advantage of it and get out of the house early. We started off my going to North Market's Harvest Festival. There were lots of great things to buy and see. We had some yummy, hot Vietnamiese for lunch and Jeni's Pumpkin 5-spice ice cream for dessert. The monkeys really enjoyed people watching, and loved the pumpkin cookie and apples they got, for free! Chetan also stocked up on his hot sauces from CaBoom.When we were first going into North Market, I was pushing Samira in her stroller when I noticed the corn husk in front of me move a bit. The next thing I know the corn husk is actually a live scarecrow! He was starting to lean down to say hi to Samira when she SCREAMED! It was the funniest scream I've ever heard from her, like "get the heck away from me, you freak!" It's still cracking me up! :)
Later in the afternoon we ventured over to Freeman's Farm to pick up some pumpkins. They also had a small petting zoo. It was a really fun time and the kiddos picked out two nice pumpkins.
And in the evening we watched the Buckeyes beat the Hoosiers, while drinking some Great Lakes Oktoberfest. A nice day.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Toddler transition
This week is Sahil and Samira's last week in the infant room. They are finally moving to the toddler room! They were supposed to move over sometime around July or August but it's taken a while to find two spots in the same room for them. I thought I was ready for them to move over, since they should have a while ago anyway, but now that it's near, I'm so sad! My babies have to grow up next week! No bibs, no sippy cups, no cribs, no rocking to sleep for nap, no help feeding them those last bites of yogurt in the morning....whhhaaaaaaaaahhh! My poor little monkeys!
Okay, so they are 20 months old now....I guess they're ready. I know they'll have more fun in the toddler room, since they seem to be getting a bit bored in the infant room. So I should be happy...
This is just another reminder that despite all I do to stop it, my babies are growing up.
Okay, so they are 20 months old now....I guess they're ready. I know they'll have more fun in the toddler room, since they seem to be getting a bit bored in the infant room. So I should be happy...
This is just another reminder that despite all I do to stop it, my babies are growing up.
Beer vs Wine
While Chetan is still into his red wines, I have (maybe temporarily) moved to drinking more beer than wine. I've always enjoyed a cold beer in the summer, at a BBQ, during the game, etc, but now prefer it even in cooler temperatures, like the Fall. Right now I am ALL about Fall beers, and have tried some really good ones. Chetan picked up some Shipyard Pumpkinhead Ale the other day which I thought was fantastic! I've also had my usual 3 favorites - Sam Adams' and Greak Lakes' Oktoberfests, and Blue Moon Pumpkin Ale, and am looking forward to trying many more before winter comes along :)
On a monkey note, Sahil now points to a beer bottle and says "bee-aah" and knows where we keep them in the fridge....a proud bad mommy moment for me.
On a monkey note, Sahil now points to a beer bottle and says "bee-aah" and knows where we keep them in the fridge....a proud bad mommy moment for me.
Oktoberfest Beers
From Beer Advocate:
Märzen / Oktoberfest
Description:Before refrigeration, it was nearly impossible to brew beer in the summer due to the hot weather and bacterial infections. Brewing ended with the coming of spring, and began again in the fall. Most were brewed in March (Märzen). These brews were kept in cold storage over the spring and summer months, or brewed at a higher gravity, so they’d keep. Märzenbier is full-bodied, rich, toasty, typically dark copper in color with a medium to high alcohol content. The common Munich Oktoberfest beer served at Wies'n (the location at which Munich celebrates its Oktoberfest) contains roughly 5.0-6.0% alcohol by volume, is dark/copper in color, has a mild hop profile and is typically labeled as a Bavarian Märzenbier in style.
9/29: Bell's Oktoberfest. A good beer but little too light for me.
Märzen / Oktoberfest
Description:Before refrigeration, it was nearly impossible to brew beer in the summer due to the hot weather and bacterial infections. Brewing ended with the coming of spring, and began again in the fall. Most were brewed in March (Märzen). These brews were kept in cold storage over the spring and summer months, or brewed at a higher gravity, so they’d keep. Märzenbier is full-bodied, rich, toasty, typically dark copper in color with a medium to high alcohol content. The common Munich Oktoberfest beer served at Wies'n (the location at which Munich celebrates its Oktoberfest) contains roughly 5.0-6.0% alcohol by volume, is dark/copper in color, has a mild hop profile and is typically labeled as a Bavarian Märzenbier in style.
9/29: Bell's Oktoberfest. A good beer but little too light for me.
Pumpkin Ale
From Beer Advocate:
Pumpkin Ale
Description:Often released as a fall seasonal, Pumpkin Ales are quite varied. Some brewers opt to add hand-cut pumpkins and drop them in the mash, while others use puree or pumpkin flavoring. These beers also tend to be spiced with pumpkin pie spices, like: ground ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice. Pumpkin Ales are typically mild, with little to no bitterness, a malty backbone, with some spice often taking the lead. Many will contain a starchy, slightly thick-ish, mouthfeel too. In our opinion, best versions use real pumpkin, while roasting the pumpkin can also add tremendous depth of character for even better results, though both methods are time-consuming and tend to drive brewmasters insane.
I plan to try them all this Fall! :)
9/26: Shipyard Brewery Pumpkinhead Ale. A great beer! Nice mild pumkin flavor with a touch of spice.
9/30: Baffalo Bill Brewing - America's Original Pumpkin Ale. Made with real pumpkin. Good stuff! Maybe a touch too much spice in it, but a nice light brew. Definitely reminds me of Fall.
Pumpkin Ale
Description:Often released as a fall seasonal, Pumpkin Ales are quite varied. Some brewers opt to add hand-cut pumpkins and drop them in the mash, while others use puree or pumpkin flavoring. These beers also tend to be spiced with pumpkin pie spices, like: ground ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice. Pumpkin Ales are typically mild, with little to no bitterness, a malty backbone, with some spice often taking the lead. Many will contain a starchy, slightly thick-ish, mouthfeel too. In our opinion, best versions use real pumpkin, while roasting the pumpkin can also add tremendous depth of character for even better results, though both methods are time-consuming and tend to drive brewmasters insane.
I plan to try them all this Fall! :)
9/26: Shipyard Brewery Pumpkinhead Ale. A great beer! Nice mild pumkin flavor with a touch of spice.
9/30: Baffalo Bill Brewing - America's Original Pumpkin Ale. Made with real pumpkin. Good stuff! Maybe a touch too much spice in it, but a nice light brew. Definitely reminds me of Fall.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Summer 2009
Our summer was absolutely wonderful! The weather was questionable for a lot of it, but it didn't really affect us, since staying on the cool side actually worked well for us. We didn't get to Orange pool as much as we had liked to, but we did manage to go a few times. Sahil and Samira also took swim classes at the Westerville Community Center on Saturdays, so we did in plenty of pool time there. Some days they loved the class, some days they whined through a lot of it. The same held true for me too....
Every summer weekend was happily packed with parties, BBQs, long walks, parks, wine tastings, playing in the fountains at Easton, visiting the zoo, Crew games, happy hours, dinners with friends, making new friends, farmers markets, and lots of other fun stuff! All ordinary things, yet so special to me....
For the monkeys second Fourth of July and second Red White and Boom, we once again went to the Mt Carmel Foundation's RW&B party on the rooftop of Mount Carmel West. Mom & Dad and Mama didn't join us this time, but I think the monkeys still had a great time. We had a great dinner, drinks, dancing, and a perfect seat to the best fireworks show in the land! Samira's poopy diaper also got us into the nice restrooms vs the Porta-Johns. Mommy thanks you baby girl! :)
We took our "summer vacation" trip in September actually. We went to Ft Myers beach for 5 nights, and it was wonderful! Very relaxing! The monkeys had a great time, and it was so nice to spend so much time with them and not have to worry about everyday things like cleaning, bills, etc.
We also had many visits from friends and family! The monkeys met their cousin Shreya from Michigan and their cousin Nikhil from SF for the first time. Can't wait to meet up again!
All in all, it was the best summer ever! But it always is.... It made me feel so blessed to have such happiness and love in my life, thanks to my dear monkeys, Chetan and family and friends. Yes, I would now like some wine with that cheese :)
Every summer weekend was happily packed with parties, BBQs, long walks, parks, wine tastings, playing in the fountains at Easton, visiting the zoo, Crew games, happy hours, dinners with friends, making new friends, farmers markets, and lots of other fun stuff! All ordinary things, yet so special to me....
For the monkeys second Fourth of July and second Red White and Boom, we once again went to the Mt Carmel Foundation's RW&B party on the rooftop of Mount Carmel West. Mom & Dad and Mama didn't join us this time, but I think the monkeys still had a great time. We had a great dinner, drinks, dancing, and a perfect seat to the best fireworks show in the land! Samira's poopy diaper also got us into the nice restrooms vs the Porta-Johns. Mommy thanks you baby girl! :)
We took our "summer vacation" trip in September actually. We went to Ft Myers beach for 5 nights, and it was wonderful! Very relaxing! The monkeys had a great time, and it was so nice to spend so much time with them and not have to worry about everyday things like cleaning, bills, etc.
We also had many visits from friends and family! The monkeys met their cousin Shreya from Michigan and their cousin Nikhil from SF for the first time. Can't wait to meet up again!
All in all, it was the best summer ever! But it always is.... It made me feel so blessed to have such happiness and love in my life, thanks to my dear monkeys, Chetan and family and friends. Yes, I would now like some wine with that cheese :)
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Sad...
This used to be a sad blog, now it may be the saddest blog ever! I can't believe I haven't written any posts since June! My one reader has probably given up on it too!
This was supposed to be a journal-type for me, so let me try to revive it, for me. I can't see me going back and reading it it any time soon, but maybe one day?
Okay, today starts a new life for this blog!
This was supposed to be a journal-type for me, so let me try to revive it, for me. I can't see me going back and reading it it any time soon, but maybe one day?
Okay, today starts a new life for this blog!
Friday, June 26, 2009
The King of Pop
Michael Jackson passed away yesterday. Yes, he was a total weirdo by the end, but an amazing artist, a big part of my childhood memories. So many of his songs evoke different, wonderful memories for me.
I was OBSSESSED with MJ in 1st and 2nd grade. I remember Dad would bring home a different 45 record from Thriller each time he came home from a business trip, and I would listen to the record non stop for days, even the not so great songs on side B.. I had a big bulletin board in my room meant for important school papers, etc, but instead it was filled top to bottom with pictures of Michael, articles about him, and anything else I could find related to him.
I remember skating to Thriller at the skating rink, listening to songs from Bad with my cousins in India, Mom and I listening to his songs in the car on the way to school, listening to his records with friends and dancing around the room....I even thought Jam was a great video and watched way more than anyone should.
MJ, hope you now find the peace and happiness you seemed to always be looking for....
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Slow Parenting Movement
Apparently I am part of a movement, and didn't know. The slow parenting movement!
http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/03/chill-free-range-or-slow-parenting-on-the-rise/
http://ecochildsplay.com/2009/06/03/chill-free-range-or-slow-parenting-on-the-rise/
Monday, May 25, 2009
Memorial Weekend
I love Memorial weekend...it means summer is here! This year we were going to go to Chicago to visit Ankur and everyone else, but I didn't get an extra day off so we decided to stay local. We ended up having a great long weekend! Went to some BBQs, had a BBQ, went to a couple parks, the Asian Festival, went with Mom and Dad to the temple in WV while Chetan golfed, and enjoyed the great weather!
Here's a link to some pics of our weekend:
http://picasaweb.google.com/chetansonali/MemorialWeekend#
Here's to the start of a fun summer!
Here's a link to some pics of our weekend:
http://picasaweb.google.com/chetansonali/MemorialWeekend#
Here's to the start of a fun summer!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Mother's Day
I can't believe my second Mother's Day is already coming up this weekend! After last year, it's now one of my favorite days of the year!
Has motherhood changed me? Heck yeah, more than I like to admit. I'd say it's magnified my strengths and weaknesses, deepened my compassion for others, gotten me to be more organized, made me rely on Chetan more, made me appreciate my own parents even more, softened me to the point of tears when I hear a good song or read a sweet poem, strengthened my faith in G_d, taught me how important it is to live in the present moment, and made me realize how wonderful an ordinary day can be when it's spent with my lil monkeys.
On the flip side, at times I forget I'm not in high school anymore, I'm a mom with responsibilities! I am still amazed that someone has allowed me to be charge of these little creatures. I still often feel so clueless about so many things, but my monkeys are alive, healthy and happy, so I like to think I'm doing something right.
Bieng a mom a is most amazing thing ever, and also the most challenging! And I'm still a rookie...
Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there! Enjoy it!
Has motherhood changed me? Heck yeah, more than I like to admit. I'd say it's magnified my strengths and weaknesses, deepened my compassion for others, gotten me to be more organized, made me rely on Chetan more, made me appreciate my own parents even more, softened me to the point of tears when I hear a good song or read a sweet poem, strengthened my faith in G_d, taught me how important it is to live in the present moment, and made me realize how wonderful an ordinary day can be when it's spent with my lil monkeys.
On the flip side, at times I forget I'm not in high school anymore, I'm a mom with responsibilities! I am still amazed that someone has allowed me to be charge of these little creatures. I still often feel so clueless about so many things, but my monkeys are alive, healthy and happy, so I like to think I'm doing something right.
Bieng a mom a is most amazing thing ever, and also the most challenging! And I'm still a rookie...
Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there! Enjoy it!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Homemade Baby Food
A lot more people are starting to make their own babyfood, whether it be to save money, use fresher ingridients, know exactly what's going in it, or just for fun. I made all of the twins' baby food at home for all of the above reasons. It turned out to be so much fun making their food. I found a great website http://www.wholesomebabyfood.com/ that gave me instructions, recipes, menu ideas, and nutrition information.
I miss those days! Table food just isn't as fun to make....
I miss those days! Table food just isn't as fun to make....
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Dear Sahil
Dear Sahil
I am sorry I distracted you from your lunch today. I'm sorry they took away your food when you kept pushing it away, wanting to play with me instead. I'm sorry I didn't speak up when you kept going up to the food area saying "more." I'm sorry that you were so sad when they said "you said all done Sahil, you didn't want to eat." I'm sorry that you're probably hungry right now.
I'm happy I packed you a big afternoon snack.
Love,
Mommy
I am sorry I distracted you from your lunch today. I'm sorry they took away your food when you kept pushing it away, wanting to play with me instead. I'm sorry I didn't speak up when you kept going up to the food area saying "more." I'm sorry that you were so sad when they said "you said all done Sahil, you didn't want to eat." I'm sorry that you're probably hungry right now.
I'm happy I packed you a big afternoon snack.
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
15 Months!
Our lil monkeys are 15 months old today! WOW! Time to accept the fact they are toddlers and not babies anymore. I'd be sad about that, except that they are so much fun right now. They seem to pick up new things to say and do every day, and are sooo funny!
Samira didn't want me to have to tell the Dr today at our appointment that she still can't walk, so she started walking this past weekend. She still crawls when she wants to get somewhere fast, but we'll take what we can get from that stubborn lil girl. Sahil now pretty much runs everywhere.
They are both such wonders in our lives and make us so happy. They also stress us out, frustrate us, get us worked up, test our patience.....they're just lucky they're cute.
Samira didn't want me to have to tell the Dr today at our appointment that she still can't walk, so she started walking this past weekend. She still crawls when she wants to get somewhere fast, but we'll take what we can get from that stubborn lil girl. Sahil now pretty much runs everywhere.
They are both such wonders in our lives and make us so happy. They also stress us out, frustrate us, get us worked up, test our patience.....they're just lucky they're cute.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Infertility
A couple weeks ago I finally told a close friend the whole story about our path to the twins....besides my usual "it took me a long time getting pregnant" spiel. It made me realize that maybe I am now ready to be more open about what we went through. Not here on a blog but maybe to anyone going through it and my close family and friends.
Infertility sucked the life out of me, but luckily my children have revived me, and I now know G-d had a plan for us all along. Even now, I feel like IF still haunts me. I still have so many unanswered questions. Now, close to two years since I got pregnant am I slowly able to accept what I went though and can maybe open up about it more.
Despite it all, I now also wonder how we got so lucky to have to go through so little compared to what some people go through to get pregnant and have children. That is definitely not how I felt before I got pregnant though. There were some days when I was so so mad at the world and maybe even G-d. It's amazing how two little monkeys can change your view so drastically. Now I feel so so blessed and thank G-d every day for the amazing children he gave us.
Infertility sucked the life out of me, but luckily my children have revived me, and I now know G-d had a plan for us all along. Even now, I feel like IF still haunts me. I still have so many unanswered questions. Now, close to two years since I got pregnant am I slowly able to accept what I went though and can maybe open up about it more.
Despite it all, I now also wonder how we got so lucky to have to go through so little compared to what some people go through to get pregnant and have children. That is definitely not how I felt before I got pregnant though. There were some days when I was so so mad at the world and maybe even G-d. It's amazing how two little monkeys can change your view so drastically. Now I feel so so blessed and thank G-d every day for the amazing children he gave us.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Painting
We're finally getting some of our home painted! I think I've spent way too much time picking out what little color I plan to add to the walls. Yesterday I made my final choices and gave all the remaining paint strips to S&S to play with. A minute later I look over and see Sahil taking a strip and putting it againest the wall, looking at it, and then taking the strip to another wall and looking at it there. He is too funny! I love this mimiking phase of toddlers :)
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Baby Signs
When I ws on maternity leave I read an article about baby sign language and the benefits, etc. I thought it was a little weird but something i definitely wanted to try with S&S. To my delight our childcare center is all about signs. I was given a booklet of basic signs to learn and do, and they used signs with S&S as soon as they started daycare, around 6 months.
I'm not sure when S&S actually started signing back, maybe around 10 or 11 months, but they are so good at it now. I really do think it gets them less frustrated beacuse they can tell me when they are hungry, thirsty, want more, etc. They now also say teh word along with the sign so that takes care of the "it'll delay their speech" worry I had. And it's just so darm cute! We only do the basic baby signs, but I think those are the important ones anyway. Sometimes Sahil will sign something, and I have ask the teachers or look it up on the web to figure what he's signing :) That happened today...he wanted to color and pointed to the drawer and signed "please." I thought he was wiping his hands on his shirt though. Marian let me know that means please :)
My point is - I recommend baby signs! At least the basic ones. Signs that we use include: drink, eat, more, help, stop, water, thank you...and please.
I'm not sure when S&S actually started signing back, maybe around 10 or 11 months, but they are so good at it now. I really do think it gets them less frustrated beacuse they can tell me when they are hungry, thirsty, want more, etc. They now also say teh word along with the sign so that takes care of the "it'll delay their speech" worry I had. And it's just so darm cute! We only do the basic baby signs, but I think those are the important ones anyway. Sometimes Sahil will sign something, and I have ask the teachers or look it up on the web to figure what he's signing :) That happened today...he wanted to color and pointed to the drawer and signed "please." I thought he was wiping his hands on his shirt though. Marian let me know that means please :)
My point is - I recommend baby signs! At least the basic ones. Signs that we use include: drink, eat, more, help, stop, water, thank you...and please.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Catch up
Here's yet another attempt to keep this blog alive...
I'm not even going to attenpt to write about everything that's happened since my last entry, but it's been a busy few months! I didn't write about it, but in September we took our first family vacation, to Charleston SC and Isle of Palms. It was great! For Halloween, the monkeys dressed up as...monkeys of course! We had a great Thanksgiving with family and friends! Christmas was wonderful too! I'm not sure if Sahil and Samira cared much about their presents, but they loved all the wrapping paper and boxes.
We celebrated Sahil and Samira's 1st birthday with a party at home. They were SOOO cranky when we cut the cake. Samira started crying while Sahil just looked mad. A bit later they started perking up. Overall we had a great time despite our cranky monkeys :) It was sooo special to us to have our friends and my parents and their friends there to celebrate.
In February we all went to India! It was a nice trip. We got to see lots of relatives, friends, and ate lots of yummy food, and the kiddos stayed healthy! Sahil started walking in India too! They also fell in love with dogs while we were there, so I now see a dog in our future....
March was filled with lots of fun with friends and family and some nice weather days to enjoy. We are so blessed to have such great friends here, and family close by!
And now it's April.... Samira started the month out by finally walking! Well, almost...she's talking 4-5 steps so far. Ankur Mama came to visit this past weekend and S&S had a lot of fun with him. Chetan also taight him how to make Tandoori chicken and palak paneer, so he can impress a hot date soon :)
Okay, all caught up!
I'm not even going to attenpt to write about everything that's happened since my last entry, but it's been a busy few months! I didn't write about it, but in September we took our first family vacation, to Charleston SC and Isle of Palms. It was great! For Halloween, the monkeys dressed up as...monkeys of course! We had a great Thanksgiving with family and friends! Christmas was wonderful too! I'm not sure if Sahil and Samira cared much about their presents, but they loved all the wrapping paper and boxes.
We celebrated Sahil and Samira's 1st birthday with a party at home. They were SOOO cranky when we cut the cake. Samira started crying while Sahil just looked mad. A bit later they started perking up. Overall we had a great time despite our cranky monkeys :) It was sooo special to us to have our friends and my parents and their friends there to celebrate.
In February we all went to India! It was a nice trip. We got to see lots of relatives, friends, and ate lots of yummy food, and the kiddos stayed healthy! Sahil started walking in India too! They also fell in love with dogs while we were there, so I now see a dog in our future....
March was filled with lots of fun with friends and family and some nice weather days to enjoy. We are so blessed to have such great friends here, and family close by!
And now it's April.... Samira started the month out by finally walking! Well, almost...she's talking 4-5 steps so far. Ankur Mama came to visit this past weekend and S&S had a lot of fun with him. Chetan also taight him how to make Tandoori chicken and palak paneer, so he can impress a hot date soon :)
Okay, all caught up!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
