Thursday, October 19, 2006
Axel: these shoes are made for walkin'
As I mentioned in a post below, Axel loves to "walk" with our shoes on his hands. Here, I caught him in the act! (Two different pairs of Luka's represented here!)
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Bathtime and other musings
Luka and Axel have been taking a lot of baths lately because they are having so much fun with their bath toys. Axel makes his happy noise with all the toys--letters, fish, shovel, pails to pour from, etc.--and loves to play with the shower head that hangs down (when it is off).
Tonight during their bath, Luka had fun saying all the numbers in Spanish, French and English, then saying all the colors that make up the numbers (and mathematical symbols). Then, he told me all the colors in Spanish and English. We got distracted when it got to French,. He is really into counting lately. When I was putting Axel to bed, Luka was in his room counting to 100 (cent) in French.
Luka had a good day at school and took a nap too! Yay!
Axel had a good day with his babysitter, Odette. We are so lucky to have her! I was even able to stop by and get my hair cut after my business meeting was over! I really needed it!
Tonight during their bath, Luka had fun saying all the numbers in Spanish, French and English, then saying all the colors that make up the numbers (and mathematical symbols). Then, he told me all the colors in Spanish and English. We got distracted when it got to French,. He is really into counting lately. When I was putting Axel to bed, Luka was in his room counting to 100 (cent) in French.
Luka had a good day at school and took a nap too! Yay!
Axel had a good day with his babysitter, Odette. We are so lucky to have her! I was even able to stop by and get my hair cut after my business meeting was over! I really needed it!
Halloween Fun
Our current nightly ritual for the Halloween season:
After dinner when it is dark enough, we (me) light our Halloween candles (tea lights in metal "bags" that glow through images of witches, pumpkins, ghosts and bats + the candle Luka made at VBS this summer), we (me or Luka) plug in the pumpkin strings of lights hanging from the curtain rods in the living room, we (me or Luka) turn out all other lights, and then we (me) turn on our Halloween music and we (Luka, Mommy, Axel and Papa if he is home) start dancing away! Our current favs on the CD are Monster Mash, Ghost Busters and Time Warp. When we are done, Luka blows out the candles, and we go up stairs to get ready for bed (bath, books, kisses, tickling, etc.).
After dinner when it is dark enough, we (me) light our Halloween candles (tea lights in metal "bags" that glow through images of witches, pumpkins, ghosts and bats + the candle Luka made at VBS this summer), we (me or Luka) plug in the pumpkin strings of lights hanging from the curtain rods in the living room, we (me or Luka) turn out all other lights, and then we (me) turn on our Halloween music and we (Luka, Mommy, Axel and Papa if he is home) start dancing away! Our current favs on the CD are Monster Mash, Ghost Busters and Time Warp. When we are done, Luka blows out the candles, and we go up stairs to get ready for bed (bath, books, kisses, tickling, etc.).
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Some Recent Pictures
Axel with his soap "hat" in the tub 
Papa, Luka and Axel (hiding his face) at Rocky Mt. National Park (Mills Lake)
Papa, Luka and Axel (hiding his face) at Rocky Mt. National Park (Mills Lake)
Axel: if the shoe fits, wear it!
One of Axel's favorite activities lately is putting (inside) shoes (mine, Luka's, his own, Reynald's) on his hands and then crawling around happily with them. He is very attached to this and gets very mad if you take them away to put them on. So, we try to only wear our shoes when really necessary if he is interested in them! Funny! He just loves parading around with them. Will try to get a photo of it to preserve a shot of this latest exploratation technique.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
High Altitude Alert for iPods!
If you have an iPod and you are planning to take it above 10,000 feet (a not uncommon occurrence for many of us here in Colorado), don't do it! Check out this article from a Coloardo Springs TV station where they tested one at over 10,000 feet of altitude and it ruined their player! Regarding their test, they say, in part:
"At first when we turned it on, it seemed to work fine, until we tried to play a song. The i-POD began making a clicking sound and it struggled to play. We later found out that every time it made a clicking sound, it was the [device] reader scratching our hard-drive. At one point it gave us a sad face and then we had a hard time turning the device off. The best advice is not to turn it on when you are above 10,000 feet. The i-POD instructional manual does say there is an altitude limitation. If you do chances are good Apple will not cover it under it's manufactures warranty."
"At first when we turned it on, it seemed to work fine, until we tried to play a song. The i-POD began making a clicking sound and it struggled to play. We later found out that every time it made a clicking sound, it was the [device] reader scratching our hard-drive. At one point it gave us a sad face and then we had a hard time turning the device off. The best advice is not to turn it on when you are above 10,000 feet. The i-POD instructional manual does say there is an altitude limitation. If you do chances are good Apple will not cover it under it's manufactures warranty."
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Axel's making progress
Axel has been pulling himself to standing for a few weeks. He is doing it all the time now. About a week ago, I found him standing up in his crib for the first time. Until just the last few days though, he would get "stuck" and not be able to sit down on his own. Last night in the tub and today on "dry land", I noticed that he now can sit down on his own. Go, Axel!
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Interesting books: thank a Translator!
The local Colorado translators group of translators to which I belong put on an event at the new Tattered Cover on Colfax in Denver. It was held on International Translator's Day: Sept 30th. The idea is, many books we can read in English have been translated from other languages. So, thank a translator!
Passages from the following books were read in both the original languages and in English. All were very compelling--I encourage you to pick one and read it!
Passages from the following books were read in both the original languages and in English. All were very compelling--I encourage you to pick one and read it!
- Poem: The End of the Book (Freg Ikh Bay Mayn Libe Froy) by Moyshe-Leyb Halpern' s in the book Yiddish Poetry, A Bilingual Anthology, University of California Press, Berkeley and Los Angeles, 1986.
- Suite Française by Irène Nemirovsky, translated from the French by Sandra Smith. (I read the English excerpt of this at the presentation and my friend Michèle read the French!) French edition published by Denoël, English edition published by Alfred Knopf. Moving novel about French life during WWII by an author whose manuscript was recently discovered, and who was herself deported and killed by the Nazis. For more about her and her manuscript, go to Book Browse's summary.
- Dom dzienny, dom nocny/House of Day, House of Night, by Olga Tokarczuk, translated from the Polish by Antonia Lloyd-Jones. English Edition ISBN 0810118920; Polish edition ISBN 83-900281-9-0.
- An excerpt from La tregua/The Reawakening by Primo Levi, translated by Stewart Woolf. Read in Italian by David Russi and in English by Dannah Edwards. English ISBN 0684826356). Clever and moving - uplifting although also dealing with the Holocaust.
- Laços de Familia/Family Ties, by Clarice Lispector, translated from the Portuguese by Giovanni Pontiero. Portuguese ISBN: 8532508138, English ISBN: 0292724489.
- Cien años de soledad/One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez, translated from the Spanish by Gregory Rabassa. Various editions of this book are available.
- Die Märchen der Brüder Grimm/Brothers Grimm Fairy Tales by the Brothers Grimm. German ISBN 3-442-00412-8, English ISBN 0553382160 - find it on Amazon. Absolutely hilarious original version of Cinderella (and other tales) before it was sanitized by 20th Century society.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Trash Can Fun
We seem to have fun with trash cans at our house. Luka still likes to say "trash can" in sign language, and Axel has a new trash can game. He sees it as one big container and he loves to put things in it: letters that go to his French fridge Leapfrog letter came (those are not cheap!), baby-safe cars, trucks, combs, and other smallish items. I have to check teh trash carefully before we dump it in the big bag for Monday's trash pick up! For now, I have moved it to the top of the filing cabinet.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Axel and Luka Updates
Axel is pulling himself up a bit more to stand. He is not trying to walk yet on his own, but we are trying to encourage him. 
Last night, he had a blast with Papa and Luka when he kept trying to pull down the curtains in the living room and Papa would playfully grab his foot to keep him from causing disaster. He has a fun time at music classes with Mommy on Wednesdays and likes all the songs and especially loves playing with all the instruments (sticks, shaker, drum, scarf). He is going through a "low growth" stage maybe, in any case, he often rejects even his most favorite foods. What is up with that?!
He went with Mommy, Sanya and Kylie to the Gymboree Play Gym last Friday and had a blast crawling around on all their fun stuff. He also likes going to our neighborhood park with Mommy when Luka is at school and playing in the tunnel, the little steps and the slide (Mommy still helps him go down).
Luka is doing well in PreK. His teachers are really nice. He loves singing English and French songs still and adores riding his bike (trike) to and from school. We read the knock-knock joke book for the first time in a long time and he loved it. He was laughing his head off. It is fun to see how his humor has changed and how he gets more and more of the jokes as he gets older. even if he doesn't totally get them all, they sound funny to him and we have a lot of fun with it.
He has a fun time playing with his neighbor friend, Grant who will be three next week. They often ride trikes together or play outside or at one of their houses (mostly at Grant's, I must admit, but sometimes here).
He is excited about his birthday party (one month away-see Luka birthday count down link to the left!) and Mommy is getting ready for the monkey-themed blow out at Gymboree Play Gym. We like that place!
Last night, he had a blast with Papa and Luka when he kept trying to pull down the curtains in the living room and Papa would playfully grab his foot to keep him from causing disaster. He has a fun time at music classes with Mommy on Wednesdays and likes all the songs and especially loves playing with all the instruments (sticks, shaker, drum, scarf). He is going through a "low growth" stage maybe, in any case, he often rejects even his most favorite foods. What is up with that?!He went with Mommy, Sanya and Kylie to the Gymboree Play Gym last Friday and had a blast crawling around on all their fun stuff. He also likes going to our neighborhood park with Mommy when Luka is at school and playing in the tunnel, the little steps and the slide (Mommy still helps him go down).
Luka is doing well in PreK. His teachers are really nice. He loves singing English and French songs still and adores riding his bike (trike) to and from school. We read the knock-knock joke book for the first time in a long time and he loved it. He was laughing his head off. It is fun to see how his humor has changed and how he gets more and more of the jokes as he gets older. even if he doesn't totally get them all, they sound funny to him and we have a lot of fun with it.
He has a fun time playing with his neighbor friend, Grant who will be three next week. They often ride trikes together or play outside or at one of their houses (mostly at Grant's, I must admit, but sometimes here).
He is excited about his birthday party (one month away-see Luka birthday count down link to the left!) and Mommy is getting ready for the monkey-themed blow out at Gymboree Play Gym. We like that place!
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
A Turtle Sighting in Westminster
I saw a fairly big turtle on the Big Dry Creek trail (mile 2)! It had about a foot-long shell and it was jumping into the creek at mile 2 where the water is pretty churny. Obviously, someone had it as a pet and let it loose (bad, bad you people who think you want exotic pets). Poor thing. Well, it is warm out for now, so he will survive for now, I guess. I called the city just to let them know they had an out of place visitor. I suppose that happens more than the rest of think!
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Luka - champion rock climber!
Luka (aged 3 years, 10 months, 4 weeks and 1 day old!) had his first experience rock climbing today. And, it was OUTSIDE, not in a climbing gym! He was so awesome! World Championship, here he comes! Corinne and Dan were taking Ada climbing (she has been climbing since last year and is now almost 4) and invited us to come. They had all the gear set up.When we got there (Gregory Canyon Ampitheater) Ada was starting her second climb. The climb was rated a 5.4. She looked so great! Also, it was neat to see Luka encouraging her instead of being jealous. He was saying he wanted to do it too, but he was very excited for her success and sincerely cheering her on. They really are good little buddies and a good match in the world of pre-kindgergarten dare devil sports. :)
After Ada was done, Corinne took Luka up. She was already familiar with the climb and we thought it might be better for him to have a "teacher" rather than go with one of us (less likely for him to say, "No, I don't want to, etc." to one of his parents). No danger of that as he was really into it and did an awesome job! Corinne raved about how he was a natural. :) He has been wanting to do it for a while, so I guess he knew what he wanted! She said about half way up, he turned to her, at first serious, and then broke out in a big smile and said, "I'm climbing!"
He wore Ada's climbing helmet, special kid harness and cool flame climbing shoes!
Axel and Mommy had a fun time hanging out and watching everyone (and a pretty hike to get there) and Reynald did a climb too. Dan was a trooper in belaying everyone. A nice fall day and sunny, but a bit chilly for Dan and when we were out of the sun. Axel was a sport and fell asleep on Mommy at the end. Corinne and Dan were awesome to share all their knowledge and gear with us. Thanks, you guys!
Afterward, in the car, I asked Luka who the champ climber was and he said himself (since that is what I was obviously hinting at) and was excited to add on his own "And Ada too!"
MORE PHOTOS HERE: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bodeux/sets/ Then, click on the Rock Climbing set to the right to see a slide show!
What a great day!
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Eve's article on the web
An article Eve wrote on the web in a translation journal:
http://accurapid.com/journal/38review.htm
http://accurapid.com/journal/38review.htm
Don't Eat Pete!
Luka has been talking about Don't Eat Pete for a while. With his explanation, searching on the web and some ingenuity by Mommy, we figured out how to play. Here is how to play this exciting game:
- Download and print the Don't Eat Pete grid that Mommy made for Luka.
- Get Cheerios or other small edible items.
- Place the items on some or all of the numbers on the grid.
- Have one person leave the room so the others can choose which Cheerio on which number represents "Pete."
- Let the person come back and eat Cheerios one by one.
- When the person picks the Cheerio designated as "Pete" everyone say, "Don't eat Pete! Don't eat Pete! Don't eat Pete!" and then see the kids convulse in giggles and laughter.
We are going to try it with Axel next. We think he too can play Don't Eat Pete!
Friday, September 15, 2006
Luka's Birthday Countdown
Luka's birthday is coming soon. The milestones of fall/winter, as explained to Luka today: First, comes his birthday. Then, Halloween. That is followed by Thanksgiving, then Christmas and then New Year's (fireworks!). Very exciting all that!
Keeping Track of Axel
Axel had his year check up at the doctor today. (Okay, he is 13-1/2 months; it just took a while to get in there).
His stats are:
Weight: 19 lbs 12 ounces - 10th percentile
Height: 31-1/4 inchces - 80th percentile
Head: 18-1/4 inches - 50th percentile
Here is his ticker, updating his age:
His stats are:
Weight: 19 lbs 12 ounces - 10th percentile
Height: 31-1/4 inchces - 80th percentile
Head: 18-1/4 inches - 50th percentile
Here is his ticker, updating his age:
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Try-Athlon
Our First Ever Try-Athlon (organized by Cameron and Eve) was a great success! It took place on Sept 9, Saturday. A day that started out a little rainy, but turned out perfectly--even for the outside pool!
The kids had a blast swimming, then biking and then running. They loved the bibs, and loved finishing the biking and running stages through the balloon arch. About 15 kids and their families were there. We had magnets too that matched the bib design and the kids received those at the end; everyone had their name called. They also received a participation ribbon. And, of course, snacks at the end: Teddy Grahams and ice cream!
Kids ranged in age from 2 (almost 3) (Melanie) to 6 or 7, I'd say. Luka was right in the middle of the pack. He was very excited and pumped his fists when he'd finish an event. There were no "winners" per se and everyone cheered everyone else on. The event starts were staggered to get the correct ages together. It really did encourage "love of sports" without any negativity about "losing" (that can come from elsewhere in life!). It was truly a great success and we are all looking forward to doing it next year!
Updated photos from Eve of the event on flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bodeux/tags/tryathlon/
And, these that one of the dads posted on flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bells/tags/tryathlon/
Luka is in two of these dad's photos: one is of him running, in motion, with his gray t-shirt flying out behind him, and his orange athletic shorts, along with (of course) his cool Spiderman sunglasses. He is also in the group photo with all the kids listening to instructions.
I will still try post some more photos and the event logo too. I still need to reinstall Photoshop after my computer upgrade; I am only re-installing things as I really need them (too time consuming).
Friday, September 08, 2006
Luka Update
Luka moved to PreK today at school. Yay! I think he will like it a lot and he did well. They said he only wanted to go back to his Preschool class when they had nap (thinking he could more easily avoid it, I am sure!). He is going to go full time now (Mon - Fri). I think it will help him with the consistency, and right now, I just have too much work for him to go part-time. I think it will be easier on all of us. I am planning to get him earlier, around 3:30 every day. I usually am done working by then anyway, for the most part anyway (could always find something to do, I am sure, but have to call it a day and move on!).
He also did his presentation for show and tell, finally! Miss Desiree moved him up to PreK after he did, but wanted him to get the chance to do it before he moved up. She said that she was excited to have him do it because every other kid so far had just brought a toy. His was different, so she was happy to have him do it too. She was gone when I got to school to get him (will have to ask her later how it went) but I asked him. He said, "Mommy, the kids didn't even laugh (at what he thinks is the funny part of the ABC song)." I thought they might not (might not be funny to everyone else...;) But, it sounds like he did a good job and at least it was a good excercise for him to practice and see it through.
I just signed him up for a gymanstics class at the Broomfield Rec Center with his friend Johnny. It is 50 minutes on Thursday evenings for 5 weeks. They really liked it! Johnny's mom, Axel and I waited outside. We could watch through a big glass window. It is a nice gymastics center with all the gymnastics stuff (beyond me for the most part, but balance beam, etc.). There were a lot of girls and several classes or teams out there at once, but for Luka's class of 4 and 5 year olds, there were 3 little boys and 2 girls! So, that was great. The other little boy is also Johnny. It seemed really fun and they had a good time. Also, it being once a week seems doable and not too much then. Swimming at twice a week got a bit much for him (and therefore, for me).
Luka is very imaginative and always has some game of pretend he wants to play ("Mommy, you be a monster, Axel is the baby monster and you guys run after me making monster noise; Mommy, I am a race car and you and Axel are race cars too, etc. etc.").
Tomorrow is the Try Athlon that Cameron and I have put together for the kids. We are expecting 20 kids like 3 - 7 or so. Two lengths in the pool in Louisville, two laps around the park on bikes or trikes and two laps running. Should be a blast. Will try to post pictures. We have a log and everything: bibs for the kids, magnets for them to take home, participation ribbons, snacks, water, etc. If it goes well, next year we may try to make it an official event, not just for our friends. We will see how it goes! Luka is ready for this too! He is excited about the competition and ready to go!
He also did his presentation for show and tell, finally! Miss Desiree moved him up to PreK after he did, but wanted him to get the chance to do it before he moved up. She said that she was excited to have him do it because every other kid so far had just brought a toy. His was different, so she was happy to have him do it too. She was gone when I got to school to get him (will have to ask her later how it went) but I asked him. He said, "Mommy, the kids didn't even laugh (at what he thinks is the funny part of the ABC song)." I thought they might not (might not be funny to everyone else...;) But, it sounds like he did a good job and at least it was a good excercise for him to practice and see it through.
I just signed him up for a gymanstics class at the Broomfield Rec Center with his friend Johnny. It is 50 minutes on Thursday evenings for 5 weeks. They really liked it! Johnny's mom, Axel and I waited outside. We could watch through a big glass window. It is a nice gymastics center with all the gymnastics stuff (beyond me for the most part, but balance beam, etc.). There were a lot of girls and several classes or teams out there at once, but for Luka's class of 4 and 5 year olds, there were 3 little boys and 2 girls! So, that was great. The other little boy is also Johnny. It seemed really fun and they had a good time. Also, it being once a week seems doable and not too much then. Swimming at twice a week got a bit much for him (and therefore, for me).
Luka is very imaginative and always has some game of pretend he wants to play ("Mommy, you be a monster, Axel is the baby monster and you guys run after me making monster noise; Mommy, I am a race car and you and Axel are race cars too, etc. etc.").
Tomorrow is the Try Athlon that Cameron and I have put together for the kids. We are expecting 20 kids like 3 - 7 or so. Two lengths in the pool in Louisville, two laps around the park on bikes or trikes and two laps running. Should be a blast. Will try to post pictures. We have a log and everything: bibs for the kids, magnets for them to take home, participation ribbons, snacks, water, etc. If it goes well, next year we may try to make it an official event, not just for our friends. We will see how it goes! Luka is ready for this too! He is excited about the competition and ready to go!
Axel update
Yesterday, Axel said, "Wow! Wow!" very clearly when Luka and he and I were eating dinner and I gave him a little purple spoon to use to learn how to eat himself. Luka got excited and said, "Mommy, he said 'wow'!" It was really cute to hear it come out of his mouth!
He also said "uh-oh" when we were in PA--copying Grandma saying it.
He has started clapping when he is happy about something.
Tonight, both Luka and Axel really liked it when we sang the ABC's in French and danced around.
He is really crawling around a lot. I had to get rid of a big plant in the living room that he kept getting into - we'd play a game where I'd say "No, no, no, no, no!" and he'd laugh his head off...but he kept getting into it when I wasn't looking, so it had to go. He is really into his toys and playing with stuff: his big plastic trucks, bowls, containers where he sticks his head in and makes an echo noise, Baby Tad, his LeapFrog caterpillar, etc.
He has not been eating a ton lately. He wants to nurse a lot, but not eating much solid food. He has taken to accepting what is offered in his mouth (chicken, etc.) and then immediately spitting it out. !!! Luka did that too when he was little for a stage, so I guess he will get over it.
Otherwise, he is still the winner of the nicest baby award. He is very easy going and a sweet little man.
He also said "uh-oh" when we were in PA--copying Grandma saying it.
He has started clapping when he is happy about something.
Tonight, both Luka and Axel really liked it when we sang the ABC's in French and danced around.
He is really crawling around a lot. I had to get rid of a big plant in the living room that he kept getting into - we'd play a game where I'd say "No, no, no, no, no!" and he'd laugh his head off...but he kept getting into it when I wasn't looking, so it had to go. He is really into his toys and playing with stuff: his big plastic trucks, bowls, containers where he sticks his head in and makes an echo noise, Baby Tad, his LeapFrog caterpillar, etc.
He has not been eating a ton lately. He wants to nurse a lot, but not eating much solid food. He has taken to accepting what is offered in his mouth (chicken, etc.) and then immediately spitting it out. !!! Luka did that too when he was little for a stage, so I guess he will get over it.
Otherwise, he is still the winner of the nicest baby award. He is very easy going and a sweet little man.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Bike ride: Breckenridge to Copper and back!
32 fun miles from Breck to Cooper and back! Luka and Axel where the champs in the Chariot (bike trailer), Eve did great, and Reynald is one beast of a bike ride pulling the kids and all their gear up and down all those hills! Fun, fun!
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Happy Birthday to me!
Happy birthday to me! Plans for today: get a facial and a spa pedicure with Ann (we were born the same day and the same year and often go to a restaurant together--this is a new idea for our joint birthday celebration!).
Luka asked me, "Mommy, when is your party?" I told him Mommies don't always have parties and that I was going to the "spa".
Reynald gave me a dozen lovely orange roses and a card. He always writes great cards. 14 years together, two little men, and continuing to move into the future...!
I also got a card from Laurie Ann and one from Karen. They never forget. :) Thanks, girls!
Luka asked me, "Mommy, when is your party?" I told him Mommies don't always have parties and that I was going to the "spa".
Reynald gave me a dozen lovely orange roses and a card. He always writes great cards. 14 years together, two little men, and continuing to move into the future...!
I also got a card from Laurie Ann and one from Karen. They never forget. :) Thanks, girls!
Friday, September 01, 2006
Luka's ABC Show and Tell
It was Luka's turn to do Show and Tell today (a new thing for his class). The assigned theme was "Back to School." I gave him some suggestions (teach your friends some French words about school, sing ABC song in French) that were a no go. But, he liked the idea of playing his favorite song (really) for his friends at school: an ABC song with a British guy who makes a "mistake" as he firsts starts singing ("A, B, C....Zed...no, that's not right!"). Luka finds that hilarious.
We practiced, and his presentation is supposed to go something like this:
- Hi, guys, I am going to talk about the ABC's today because ABC's are something we learn in school. (Shows his paper, protected in plastic, with the ABC's that Mommy printed from her computer in different colors)
- I am going to play my favorite ABC song for you.
- Miss Desiree, can you start the song now? (She starts the CD....)
I am wondering how it really went, and will ask the teacher later today when I pick him up. In any case, it was a good exercise for him to practice his presentation and he was excited about it.
Update: he did not get to do it at school, so the teacher said we'd try next week. I hope it works out!
We practiced, and his presentation is supposed to go something like this:
- Hi, guys, I am going to talk about the ABC's today because ABC's are something we learn in school. (Shows his paper, protected in plastic, with the ABC's that Mommy printed from her computer in different colors)
- I am going to play my favorite ABC song for you.
- Miss Desiree, can you start the song now? (She starts the CD....)
I am wondering how it really went, and will ask the teacher later today when I pick him up. In any case, it was a good exercise for him to practice his presentation and he was excited about it.
Update: he did not get to do it at school, so the teacher said we'd try next week. I hope it works out!
Monday, August 28, 2006
Safeway Organics
I have never been that great a fan of Safeway. (It was not the greatest store to shop at in Alaska growing up, and it was not that great in VA or CO either, in my experience). However, with their "makeovers" they have become updated and more interesting and there are always less people there than King Soopers, so that is a plus.
But, the latest thing that I think is a great assett about Safeway is that they have a very competitive line of their own organic products. It is competitively priced and so far what I have tried is good quality.
Today, I was impressed that they had organic ketchup in this brand, which so far no other grocery store that is not "health food" store has had locally. They also have a good selection of frozen organic veggies and fruit and French fries. We traditionally have gotten Alexia brand organic fries in large quantity from Costco, but they don't always have the kind we prefer (traditional crinkly fries). Safeway also has organic milk which is reasonably priced and other things.
(Now for the editoralizing....you can skip this part if you just wanted to the low down on Safeway's organics. :)
I suppose this is the beginning of the "corporate coopting" of organics, which is good or bad, depending on how you view it. But, as long as it is really organic and adheres to what that should really mean (USDA certified organic or similar), I think long-term, this is good for consumers, despite mourning the loss of some of the power the smaller farmer has regained with the rising deman for organics.
Newspaper or other articles often mention that Wal-Mart is getting into organics in a "big way" and this will profoundly change pricing and distrubition in this area, but do you think Wal-Marts core customers really care? Maybe Wal-Mart is trying to get at the more "affluent" market who values organics, but I really hate Wal-Mart and I am sure that a lot of the "new customers" they want to get with the move toward organics do too.
Why do I hate them? For all the cliched reasons: they squeeze prices down but have crappy products, they won't pay for workers' insurance but force the public systems to pick up the tab, blah blah blah.... But, mostly I hate shopping there because it is a big ugly warehouse and (snob that I am, I guess) I just think it is a creepy place to shop with scary people shopping there.
Articles and "the media" talk about how "everyone" shops there, but I can tell you, I only go there two or three times a year if I really have to and I would be glad if that store fell off the face of the earth. Also, I think it is absurd to say that we all want the cheapest possible prices at the bigger cost that Wal-Mart enforces (a favorite theme of news articles on Wal-Mart): terrible labor practices, crappy products that are cheap-o, and an unfriendly shopping environment. If I can (which of cousre I can, I can choose as any consumer can, where to spend my money), I would always choose to spend my money elsewhere, even if it costs a little more.
How did this discussion become an anti-Wal-Mart rant? Well, it is not like I love the Safeway corporation, but they seem more palatable than Wal-Mart and not disgusting to shop in, in any case. So, whether Wal-Mart has organics or not, I will not be dashing out the door to shop there. But, you should give Safeway a try for more reasonably priced organic products.,
But, the latest thing that I think is a great assett about Safeway is that they have a very competitive line of their own organic products. It is competitively priced and so far what I have tried is good quality.
Today, I was impressed that they had organic ketchup in this brand, which so far no other grocery store that is not "health food" store has had locally. They also have a good selection of frozen organic veggies and fruit and French fries. We traditionally have gotten Alexia brand organic fries in large quantity from Costco, but they don't always have the kind we prefer (traditional crinkly fries). Safeway also has organic milk which is reasonably priced and other things.
(Now for the editoralizing....you can skip this part if you just wanted to the low down on Safeway's organics. :)
I suppose this is the beginning of the "corporate coopting" of organics, which is good or bad, depending on how you view it. But, as long as it is really organic and adheres to what that should really mean (USDA certified organic or similar), I think long-term, this is good for consumers, despite mourning the loss of some of the power the smaller farmer has regained with the rising deman for organics.
Newspaper or other articles often mention that Wal-Mart is getting into organics in a "big way" and this will profoundly change pricing and distrubition in this area, but do you think Wal-Marts core customers really care? Maybe Wal-Mart is trying to get at the more "affluent" market who values organics, but I really hate Wal-Mart and I am sure that a lot of the "new customers" they want to get with the move toward organics do too.
Why do I hate them? For all the cliched reasons: they squeeze prices down but have crappy products, they won't pay for workers' insurance but force the public systems to pick up the tab, blah blah blah.... But, mostly I hate shopping there because it is a big ugly warehouse and (snob that I am, I guess) I just think it is a creepy place to shop with scary people shopping there.
Articles and "the media" talk about how "everyone" shops there, but I can tell you, I only go there two or three times a year if I really have to and I would be glad if that store fell off the face of the earth. Also, I think it is absurd to say that we all want the cheapest possible prices at the bigger cost that Wal-Mart enforces (a favorite theme of news articles on Wal-Mart): terrible labor practices, crappy products that are cheap-o, and an unfriendly shopping environment. If I can (which of cousre I can, I can choose as any consumer can, where to spend my money), I would always choose to spend my money elsewhere, even if it costs a little more.
How did this discussion become an anti-Wal-Mart rant? Well, it is not like I love the Safeway corporation, but they seem more palatable than Wal-Mart and not disgusting to shop in, in any case. So, whether Wal-Mart has organics or not, I will not be dashing out the door to shop there. But, you should give Safeway a try for more reasonably priced organic products.,
PA Trip: Axel and Mommy
Axel and Mommy (me) took a trip to PA to help Grandma (my mom) close down my grandparents' house since they are both gone now. Highlights of our trip:
- Everyone thinking what a sweet little man Axel is (and they are right--he is the champion traveler and my little easy going man).
- Axel going to Mom right away--recognizing her from his trip to AK in June: outstretched arms to have her take him from Mommy upon arrival.
- Visiting Knoebel's (me, Mom, Axel) and going on the small merry go round (he did not like it), and the big train (he liked that one!). Eating ice cream there--Eve had peach/vanilla twist (soft) and Mom had choc/vanilla twist. Axel did not want any (he has the right idea ;)
- Visiting Oakland/Susquehanna to visit with Freida and Bob (great mac and cheese dinner and good conversation) and then a nice visit with Frederick and Bettty. Seeing Mom's house that she was born in, and her school when she was little. This was before the move to Indiana (PA).
- Visiting Lebanon Valley College and seeing a favorite professor and his wife, doing some other "business" related to fundraising, and donating some of Dearma's organ music to their organ program. (But not the part about running out of gas on Intersate 81! though that turned out okay too.)
- Giving away Dearma's muisc (organ, piano, voice, chorale, recorder, violin, etc.) to people who will use and appreciate it. There was A LOT of it (stacks and stacks and thousands of dollars!) and also keeping some ourselves (Mom and Laura, mostly).
- Going through Dearma and Popop's house and taking a few souvenirs and savoring our last time in their house where we spent our lives going. I have my own memories there, but Mom's go deeper emotionally and further back in time.
- Axel's friends next door (Emmy and Dylan) who helped us by baby sitting him a few times. He had fun playing with them and we had more time to do our "work".
- Driving our cool rental car (Mazda5) -- or at least cool to a mom of two who usually gets boring rental cars. Thanks, Priceline.com!
- Eating Mom's bread pudding.
- Seeing Tresa, Jan and families along with Butch and Mabel at Carly's birthday weenie roast, which we happened upon.
- Going downtown Danville and having fun visiting the Beiter's store, as well as other places.
- Our dinner at the Town Perk in Bloomsburg and Axel's love affair with our waiter. And, of course, their Treasure Chest and the fun zebra book he got from it.
- Seeing Karen L. and her parents when we arrived in Hburg before driving north.
- Getting up at 2:30 a.m. for the drive to make our plane for the trip back home out of Harrisburg airport (okay, that was not fun per se, but not too bad, and it was memorable).
- Coming home to Luka and Papa! And, Axel's happy face (a sweet crinkly smile around his nose when he realized he was again with his beloved Papa and brother!).
- Everyone thinking what a sweet little man Axel is (and they are right--he is the champion traveler and my little easy going man).
- Axel going to Mom right away--recognizing her from his trip to AK in June: outstretched arms to have her take him from Mommy upon arrival.
- Visiting Knoebel's (me, Mom, Axel) and going on the small merry go round (he did not like it), and the big train (he liked that one!). Eating ice cream there--Eve had peach/vanilla twist (soft) and Mom had choc/vanilla twist. Axel did not want any (he has the right idea ;)
- Visiting Oakland/Susquehanna to visit with Freida and Bob (great mac and cheese dinner and good conversation) and then a nice visit with Frederick and Bettty. Seeing Mom's house that she was born in, and her school when she was little. This was before the move to Indiana (PA).
- Visiting Lebanon Valley College and seeing a favorite professor and his wife, doing some other "business" related to fundraising, and donating some of Dearma's organ music to their organ program. (But not the part about running out of gas on Intersate 81! though that turned out okay too.)
- Giving away Dearma's muisc (organ, piano, voice, chorale, recorder, violin, etc.) to people who will use and appreciate it. There was A LOT of it (stacks and stacks and thousands of dollars!) and also keeping some ourselves (Mom and Laura, mostly).
- Going through Dearma and Popop's house and taking a few souvenirs and savoring our last time in their house where we spent our lives going. I have my own memories there, but Mom's go deeper emotionally and further back in time.
- Axel's friends next door (Emmy and Dylan) who helped us by baby sitting him a few times. He had fun playing with them and we had more time to do our "work".
- Driving our cool rental car (Mazda5) -- or at least cool to a mom of two who usually gets boring rental cars. Thanks, Priceline.com!
- Eating Mom's bread pudding.
- Seeing Tresa, Jan and families along with Butch and Mabel at Carly's birthday weenie roast, which we happened upon.
- Going downtown Danville and having fun visiting the Beiter's store, as well as other places.
- Our dinner at the Town Perk in Bloomsburg and Axel's love affair with our waiter. And, of course, their Treasure Chest and the fun zebra book he got from it.
- Seeing Karen L. and her parents when we arrived in Hburg before driving north.
- Getting up at 2:30 a.m. for the drive to make our plane for the trip back home out of Harrisburg airport (okay, that was not fun per se, but not too bad, and it was memorable).
- Coming home to Luka and Papa! And, Axel's happy face (a sweet crinkly smile around his nose when he realized he was again with his beloved Papa and brother!).
Luka and Sharing
Luka defines "sharing" as "everyone else has to give me their stuff, but I can take all their toys/books/food, etc. from them or they are not sharing with me!" I guess all 3 and 4 year olds feel like that. But, it is funny to see the self-centered logic. :)
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Axel's favorite books
Axel's favorite books are currently:
- Qu'est-ce qui fait Bêê ? A fun little story about a little sheep who tries to find others like him, and meets various other animals along the way. It has sections for Axel to touch like the sheep's wool, cat's whiskers, silk flowers, bunny's fur, etc. Axel loves it! This was a gift from one of our French relatives.
- Baby Einstein's Language Nursery book. This one was a gift from Cathy when Luka was a baby. He liked it a lot too. Each page has a simple image (duck, star, cow, bear, lamb, flower, train) and then has some phrase in 5 languages: English, Spanish, French, Japanese and Hebrew. For example, "This is a cow ~ C'est une vache." I always just read the French. Though sometimes the Japanese is fun to pronounce (Konnichi wa!). The best part of the book is the last page where there is a mirror and we get to say, "Je m'appelle...Axel!" (My name is Axel!) and show him the mirror. He gets really excited every time. What fun!
- Qu'est-ce qui fait Bêê ? A fun little story about a little sheep who tries to find others like him, and meets various other animals along the way. It has sections for Axel to touch like the sheep's wool, cat's whiskers, silk flowers, bunny's fur, etc. Axel loves it! This was a gift from one of our French relatives.
- Baby Einstein's Language Nursery book. This one was a gift from Cathy when Luka was a baby. He liked it a lot too. Each page has a simple image (duck, star, cow, bear, lamb, flower, train) and then has some phrase in 5 languages: English, Spanish, French, Japanese and Hebrew. For example, "This is a cow ~ C'est une vache." I always just read the French. Though sometimes the Japanese is fun to pronounce (Konnichi wa!). The best part of the book is the last page where there is a mirror and we get to say, "Je m'appelle...Axel!" (My name is Axel!) and show him the mirror. He gets really excited every time. What fun!
Monday, August 07, 2006
Movie: Axel & Luka Summer 2006
Go here to see the movie I made on JumpCut of Axel and Luka.
This is my first try, so I Have not totally figured it out, so click on the "Play" button if you only see the main title and black background. Then, it will start.
You will see: Luka on bucking salmon, Axel laughing, Luka fishing, and Axel's birthday!
This is my first try, so I Have not totally figured it out, so click on the "Play" button if you only see the main title and black background. Then, it will start.
You will see: Luka on bucking salmon, Axel laughing, Luka fishing, and Axel's birthday!
Axel's 1st Birthday!
Axel had a great birthday and birthday party: August 6, 2006: He was one year old! He took a nap until 2:30, unconcerned that the guests were arriving at 1:30 p.m. Some guests inquired at to where the man of the day was, but understood that he needed his beauty sleep.
He woke up to see all these people at his house! And, a giant cake (bouncy "castle")! He ate some mac and cheese and fruit, and then was ready for some cake action! See photos below. Everyone sang to him twice - in English and then in French.
There was a chocolate raspberry Winnie the Pooh cake that he and the the other kids (led by Luka) admired very much (not being able to resist putting their fingers in it earlier! But, no real damage done :) There were also some "adult" cakes from Wild Oats and they turned out to be very good, including: a carmel apple cheesecake, a "down home" chocolate cake, lemon tarts, and a rustic fruit tart.
We had lots of friends come to celebrate with us.
Luka and his friends had fun in the bouncy castle and the kids seemed to like the "goodie bags" that Luka and I had prepared the night before: crazy straw, fruit candies, tatoos (of course), rings for the rings and frogs for the boys. What fun.
Axel went in the bouncy castle a few times with Mommy and/or Papa, but was not crazy about it. He'd had a big day and was more interested in crawling around on the lawn or checking out Papa's camping chair.
All in all, a very successful party to celebrate our littlest man!
See some photos below.
He woke up to see all these people at his house! And, a giant cake (bouncy "castle")! He ate some mac and cheese and fruit, and then was ready for some cake action! See photos below. Everyone sang to him twice - in English and then in French.
There was a chocolate raspberry Winnie the Pooh cake that he and the the other kids (led by Luka) admired very much (not being able to resist putting their fingers in it earlier! But, no real damage done :) There were also some "adult" cakes from Wild Oats and they turned out to be very good, including: a carmel apple cheesecake, a "down home" chocolate cake, lemon tarts, and a rustic fruit tart.
We had lots of friends come to celebrate with us.
Luka and his friends had fun in the bouncy castle and the kids seemed to like the "goodie bags" that Luka and I had prepared the night before: crazy straw, fruit candies, tatoos (of course), rings for the rings and frogs for the boys. What fun.
Axel went in the bouncy castle a few times with Mommy and/or Papa, but was not crazy about it. He'd had a big day and was more interested in crawling around on the lawn or checking out Papa's camping chair.
All in all, a very successful party to celebrate our littlest man!
See some photos below.
Axel Birthday Prince!
No - I don't want it! I am the birthday boy and can stick in my cake if I want!
Mmm - that IS good!
Little Explorer
Luka in Bouncy Castle Heaven
The bouncy castle - or in this case, "cake"!
Winnie the Pooh cake!
Birthday plate made by Mommy
Luka's Thoughts on Getting Older
Lately Luka has been reflecting on the "benefits" of getting "older." Often, when confronted with something he cannot (or is not allowed) to do, he says, "When I turn 4, I can do that." It seems that for him, being 4 (which several of his friends are already, and he will turn in October) represents being all knowing and all doing (in other words, an adult?). I hope he is not too disappointed when he does turn 4, and the world does not change dramatically. :)
Axel just turned one yesterday, and overnight, he started walking, talking in full sentences, and running around. Ha ha. Just kidding. His favorite word is still "Done" which he says for pretty much everything. But, he says it very clearly!
Axel just turned one yesterday, and overnight, he started walking, talking in full sentences, and running around. Ha ha. Just kidding. His favorite word is still "Done" which he says for pretty much everything. But, he says it very clearly!
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Alaska Trip: June 16 - July 5, 2006
We were too busy having fun to be able to post to our blog during our almost three-week long trip. So, retroactively, here are some of the highlights (see below bullet points for pictures):
Luka and Smokey the Bear at Portage Glacier Visitor Center
- Charlie and Mona's wedding (we just missed it by hours, but the pictures are gorgeous and they are the very happy, newly-wedded couple!)
- Axel's baptism on Sunday, June 18th (Father's Day) at First Presbyterian Church at 10th and G street in Anchorage.
- The baptism was followed by a lovely lunch of gourmet sandwiches, organic green salad, tabouleh, and very tasty European-style cakes: grand marnier and chocoloate raspberry truffle and French champagne (of course). Kiddies (and anyone who wanted one) got ice cream sandwiches. Charles and Mona shared sparkling cider, very nice cutlery, napkins and plates from the wedding service.
- Hanging out with the Alaska gang: Charles and Mona, Vernon and Tammy and kids + the new baby: Baby Vernon!; Paul and Jahna and Kids; Helen; Laura and Joan.
- Hanging out with the other visitors from across the US: Steve and Angela (NE); Aunt Carol (NC); Uncle Butch and Mabel (PA); Aunt Mary, Dennis, Andy and Shelby (MA); us (CO); Jim, Dianna, Emma and Julia (TX but on their way to CA).
- Our Denali Trip with Jim and Di and the girls: riding the school bus into the park (and, of course, Luka and Emma entertaining each other), seeing the mama grizzly with her two cubs, our great cabins, gorgeous vistas, hiking around with the kids, eating at the salmon bake, our stop in Talkeetna, and more.
- Mom's 70th birthday party blow out: we can't believe she is 70 either, but there you have it! Time does march on. Our gorgeous, energetic, inspiring Mom and Grandma! Would that we will all be so lucky and look and act like her on our 70th!
- The desserts at Mom's 70th birthday blow out: birthday cake by the Cake Lady, strawberry cake by Super Mommy (that would be Tammy), peach cobbler by Auntie Laura, Lintzer torte (almond and raspberry) supplied by Auntie Helen (from Flying Dutchman), rhubarb pie by Uncle Charlie (from their garden). (I didn't make the clafoutis for this, but it was a big hit during our visit and we made it several times. Here is the recipe.)
- Indian dinner extravaganza orchestrated by Jim and his disciples (in this case, that would be Laura and Angela), with the all-important naan bread brought by Helen.
- Hiking the Winner Creek Trail with 22+ of us--littlest kids to "big kids"--and doing the hand tram! Very exciting! Axel wasn't scared, but Mommy was! Luka went across with Auntie Mona and was a real champ! See an article that appeared about this fun trail in the Anchroage Daily News (local paper) a few weeks after we did our hike.
- Kid concerts in Uncle Paul's basement after get togethers: Luka performing very seriously on the little whistle, Col on drums, Paul E on guitar, dancing by Julia, Lauren and Kathleen. Priceless.
- The hilarity ensuing from pictures taken with Vernon's iMac's PhotoBooth. We need an iMac!
- Having dinner with Cathy and Dolly at Dolly's new, gorgeous house in South Anchorage.
- Mosquitos biting us.
- Eating Mom's (Joan's) homemade pancakes with wild AK blueberries. Divine.
- Eating Wildberry candies at the down town store (very yummy, but if I had to choose, I'd pick Mom's pancakes).
- Luka dealing with it being light all the time. Once, at 10 p.m. with sun streaming in his (Auntie Helen's) bedroom window, he was convinced to go to sleep because Papa, who was then back in CO, was already asleep. So, it was okay then.
- 4th of July pancake breakfast with Auntie Laura, Luka, Mommy and Axel on the Park Strip. From her bed (actually, Auntie Helen's bed, thanks, Helen!) Eve heard the rescue helicopter that we could visit during the celebration land at 5:30 a.m. It was LOUD!!!!!! The helicopter was from the AK Air National Guard and is used in some very daring rescues! Go, guys!
- The 4th of July parade. Lots of Anchorage communities represented. The Iraq vet with two legs amputated deserved the ovation he got.
- Luka doing the bucking, mechanical salmon at the 4th of July celebration. Go, Luka, go!
- A relaxed 4th of July BBQ at Uncle Charlie and Aunt Mona's with master grilling by Charles and fabulous hosting by Mona. Three perfect little girl friends to entertain Luka, with Axel the Monster Baby and Mommy the Monster chasing them (and all the other adults too with Axel in front). Hilarious for all involved. It turned out to be a gorgeous sunny day.
- Fireworks the Anchorage way - at midnight, but it is still light out. The fireworks looked great against the backdrop of the Chugach Mountains.
- Seeing my friend Michaella and her family our last day in the morning.
- Taking the flight home with the kids on the red eye. Even though I never slept (Reynald had left the week before), they were both very good little travelers. I think I may just take them again!
☺For more info on our trip, check out Steven and Angela's blog.
☺For pictures see below and also visit our family website for AK pics and others.
HERE ARE SOME PICTURES!
Mom and Kids at wedding
Happy Axel Man after his baptism
Luka and Smokey the Bear at Portage Glacier Visitor Center
Axel, Reynald, Julia, Jim - Denali National Park - Toklat River stop
Emma and Julia - Denali trip
Mom on her 70th Birthday!
Pretty much the whole Lindemuth gang at Mom's birthday party:
Back row - L to R: Baby Vernon, Tammy, Vernon, Paul, Andy, Dennis, Mona, Charles, Laura, Steven, Butch, Julia, Jim
Middle: Reynald holding Axel, Eve, Mom the birthday girl (Joan), Angela, Aunt Mary, Mabel
Bottom: Kathleen, Paul, Col, Elias, Luka in Shelby's lap, Emma in Amanda's lap, Lauren, Helen, Dianna, Aunt Carol
Missing: Jahna
Dianna, Axel, Eve on hand tram!
Luka, the alien (thanks iPhotoBooth!)
Mommy and Axel in Andy Warhol mode - (thanks again, iPhotoBooth!)
Luka cutie man in Auntie Helen's funky ski hat (a gift from Mommy/Eve)
Monday, July 31, 2006
Recipe: Peach Relish
I made this recipe up tonight to put on some mild, white fish, to take advantage of the fresh peaches we bought from Costco. It was a hit! Here is the recipe:
2 fresh peaches, peeled and diced (you could probably use fresh frozen ones too--thawed)
1 large stalk of celery, diced small
2 - 3 green onions, sliced thin and small
1/2 tsp dried basil
2 TBS red wine vinegar
1 - 2 tsp sugar
Put the peaches, celery, onions in a bowl. Mash peaches with fork or pastry blender and blend the mixture. Add the vinegar, sugar and sprinkle the dried basil onto the mixture (crushing it between your fingers as you add it). Mix everything together. Let sit at least 10 minutes before using, to allow sugar to do its thing, or put in the fridge covered for several hours. Mix again before using.
2 fresh peaches, peeled and diced (you could probably use fresh frozen ones too--thawed)
1 large stalk of celery, diced small
2 - 3 green onions, sliced thin and small
1/2 tsp dried basil
2 TBS red wine vinegar
1 - 2 tsp sugar
Put the peaches, celery, onions in a bowl. Mash peaches with fork or pastry blender and blend the mixture. Add the vinegar, sugar and sprinkle the dried basil onto the mixture (crushing it between your fingers as you add it). Mix everything together. Let sit at least 10 minutes before using, to allow sugar to do its thing, or put in the fridge covered for several hours. Mix again before using.
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Camping Success
We got back late tonight from a camping adventure with the kids. We left town Saturday afternoon, stayed camp site #6, loop C at Lakeview Campground at Twin Lakes. We had a dinner of cous cous and canned salmon with feta, tomatoes, black olives and Greek spices (my favorite spice mixture). We could not light a fire so we ate marshmallows along with some chocoloate in the tent. Yum.
Axel's first trip - he was a real champ. Just waking up here and there if he was too hot or too cold. It was 104 degrees in town and probably in the 80's and 90's we were, so the tent was a bit hot at the beginning of the night. Luka slept the whole night through in his own little sleeping bag. They both liked playing in the tent and around the camp site.
We also went biking with them in the Chariot (bike attachment). That worked very well and it was very comfortable for them. It is familar and they are used to it now too--their little place to sit when we go on adventures. We biked up to a lake above us and did some "fishing" with Luka's fishing pole. He can cast by himself! I can't believe it. I showed him how when we went to Echo Lake and he remembered from that! I was really impressed. It took me longer to learn how to do it than it took him!
Axel had fun too. He had a new safari/monkey hat to protect him from the sun. And, he liked exploring pine cones (trying to eat them), playing in the dirt (grabbing it while reaching from inside the tent), and other fun stuff.
We ate lunch at Erin something picnic grounds at Turquoise Lake outside Leadville. Nice set up there with water available and nice toilets, and good view of the lake, but a lot of bugs (mosquitos).
Then, we did our big bike trip, riding from Copper to Breckenride. About 16 miles. The kids did great and we both had fun, with Reynald pulling the kids.
Reynald had to go back and get the car while the kids and I ate at Kenosha BBQ in Breck and Luka beat Mommy at horseshoes. :)
Axel's first trip - he was a real champ. Just waking up here and there if he was too hot or too cold. It was 104 degrees in town and probably in the 80's and 90's we were, so the tent was a bit hot at the beginning of the night. Luka slept the whole night through in his own little sleeping bag. They both liked playing in the tent and around the camp site.
We also went biking with them in the Chariot (bike attachment). That worked very well and it was very comfortable for them. It is familar and they are used to it now too--their little place to sit when we go on adventures. We biked up to a lake above us and did some "fishing" with Luka's fishing pole. He can cast by himself! I can't believe it. I showed him how when we went to Echo Lake and he remembered from that! I was really impressed. It took me longer to learn how to do it than it took him!
Axel had fun too. He had a new safari/monkey hat to protect him from the sun. And, he liked exploring pine cones (trying to eat them), playing in the dirt (grabbing it while reaching from inside the tent), and other fun stuff.
We ate lunch at Erin something picnic grounds at Turquoise Lake outside Leadville. Nice set up there with water available and nice toilets, and good view of the lake, but a lot of bugs (mosquitos).
Then, we did our big bike trip, riding from Copper to Breckenride. About 16 miles. The kids did great and we both had fun, with Reynald pulling the kids.
Reynald had to go back and get the car while the kids and I ate at Kenosha BBQ in Breck and Luka beat Mommy at horseshoes. :)
Luka, Mommy and Axel at the camp table after out dinner (that is not our tent behind, but the campers next to us).
Axel in our tent (through bug screen)
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Axel: new word!
Axel said "done" very clearly for his lunch, after he was done chewing and wanted more. It is so fun to see what words babies pick out as important to them. "Done!"
Interesting article on Code Switching between Languages
Interesting article on what is called "code switching" between languages - what we call "mixing the languages," by bilinguals.
http://hamminkj.cafeprogressive.com/CS_paper.htm
Interesting explanation of different types of code switching (that stuff we do sometimes actually has a specific name and had been studied!).
http://hamminkj.cafeprogressive.com/CS_paper.htm
Interesting explanation of different types of code switching (that stuff we do sometimes actually has a specific name and had been studied!).
Using Skype for International Family Contact
We have been using Skype since last fall to talk with Reynald's parents in France, and now are using the newest version so that we get both voice and video, for free. It is free if you call "computer" to "computer". It is really awesome to be able to have them see the kids, and vice versa. Luka loves to show them things he has done at school, his toys, his boo-boos, etc. He loves to see them too.
The Internet is an awesome tool for things like this. I wonder what we will think of today's technology 10 years from today, but for now, it works wonders and is, in fact, better for this kind of (family) contact than the regular old telephone.
For more info on Skype, check out their website:
www.skype.com
The Internet is an awesome tool for things like this. I wonder what we will think of today's technology 10 years from today, but for now, it works wonders and is, in fact, better for this kind of (family) contact than the regular old telephone.
For more info on Skype, check out their website:
www.skype.com
Axel is really crawling now!
Axel is really crawling now.... He is now going forward on all fours (as opposed to just backwards). Go, Axel! Luka never crawled that way, so that is interesting to see the differnces between them. Luka did the special forces crawl (lay on the ground, push with one bent leg, pull with one arm). He may have crawled on all fours one day that I recall, and then went back to his (for him) more effiicient army crawl.
French TV
We finally got the French TV channel available in the US installed! It took us years...! But, they have a deal for free installation and first three months free. We got it yesterday (satellite dish). Youpi (as the French say). It is mostly documentataries, movies, French talk shows, but some kid shows. I plan to get a DVD recorder, so we can keep some of the stuff to watch when we have time. Fun, fun!
For more info on the French channel in the US, go to:
http://www.tv5.org/TV5Site/usa/index.php
For more info on the French channel in the US, go to:
http://www.tv5.org/TV5Site/usa/index.php
Friday, July 21, 2006
Axel word update
Today, in the morning as Reynald was leaving for work, Luka said, "Papa," and then Axel said, very clearly, "Papa." Luka said, "Hey, Axel said 'Papa'!" I thought so too - so I told Reynald as he hopped in the car to get to the office. Yay, Axel!
Axel has had a high temperature the last few days (up to 102.6 under his arm yesterday), but was still a happy little man and the doctor said he should be okay. We are just keeping an eye out, but looks like he is out of the woods now.
Axel has had a high temperature the last few days (up to 102.6 under his arm yesterday), but was still a happy little man and the doctor said he should be okay. We are just keeping an eye out, but looks like he is out of the woods now.
VBS & Recipe: Coconut Date Nut Balls
Luka and I went to Weekend Vacation Bible School at the church tonight. It takes place Friday evening and Saturday and Sunday mornings. They had a really nice program with lots of activities, as if we were living in Bethlehem. Luka sang songs, played games, made a candle, sampled food from Bibliccal times, helped make candy, made a pottery bowl, and other fun stuff. He is in the Judah tribe.
For the candy, the kids hand-ground (with a table-attached, old-fashioned grinder) dates and walnuts together--like they may have done in Biblical times. Luka had a good time doing that. Then, the adult in charge of that station completed the "candy" balls that Biblical people may have eaten. It was from this recipe below and it was yum!
Coconut Date Nut Balls
[updated 12/19/2008]
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (or more to taste - to make mixture a little less sticky)
1-1/2 cups pitted, dried dates
1/2 cup flaked coconut, toasted and cooled (I used unsweetened, and did not toast it and it was
good) and more for rolling
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped fine (I used 1 cup)
dash of orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
First, in a food processor, mix graham cracker crumbs, dates, coconut, the honey and just a dash of organge juice, until just combined. Add the nuts and blend till mixture forms a ball. Remove from working bowl.
Second, roll out mixture into small balls, roll balls in remaining coconut to coat. Store in an air tight container. Makes approximately 32 balls.
Note that this recipe is forgiving with the proportions; you can fudge the portions a bit to emphasize what you like best.
For the candy, the kids hand-ground (with a table-attached, old-fashioned grinder) dates and walnuts together--like they may have done in Biblical times. Luka had a good time doing that. Then, the adult in charge of that station completed the "candy" balls that Biblical people may have eaten. It was from this recipe below and it was yum!
Coconut Date Nut Balls
[updated 12/19/2008]
1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (or more to taste - to make mixture a little less sticky)
1-1/2 cups pitted, dried dates
1/2 cup flaked coconut, toasted and cooled (I used unsweetened, and did not toast it and it was
good) and more for rolling
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped fine (I used 1 cup)
dash of orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
First, in a food processor, mix graham cracker crumbs, dates, coconut, the honey and just a dash of organge juice, until just combined. Add the nuts and blend till mixture forms a ball. Remove from working bowl.
Second, roll out mixture into small balls, roll balls in remaining coconut to coat. Store in an air tight container. Makes approximately 32 balls.
Note that this recipe is forgiving with the proportions; you can fudge the portions a bit to emphasize what you like best.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Axel: Bananas & Luka: Fishing
Today we came to the conclusion that Axel's first word (besides Mamamamamamamamam and Dadadadadadadadadadadada) is "banana". He eats A LOT of bananas. And, today, he said "nanna" very clearly. Got get him saying it the French way. ;) We think he said it the other day. We think he is saying other things too, but we have not figured it out yet. I am wondering if "nanna" referes to bananas or any food. Right now, I think it means bananas...
Luka "went fishin'" today with his Scooby Doo fishing pole with us at Echo Lake, on the road to Mt. Evans. He also casted a few times almost by himself. Very impressive! He then did his own version of casting that made him happy too....loosen the line, let the ball drop, click it to stop reeling out, flick the ball out in the water, reel it in. No fishies biting (no hook! but he doesn't know that part is required), but he said we will get some next time!
Luka "went fishin'" today with his Scooby Doo fishing pole with us at Echo Lake, on the road to Mt. Evans. He also casted a few times almost by himself. Very impressive! He then did his own version of casting that made him happy too....loosen the line, let the ball drop, click it to stop reeling out, flick the ball out in the water, reel it in. No fishies biting (no hook! but he doesn't know that part is required), but he said we will get some next time!
Monday, July 10, 2006
Axel is starting to crawl
Axel, like Luka was, is a "late" crawler. He has been happy sitting, though, and kind of "spinning" around to where he needs to go, within a small area. But, he just started getting on all fours and rocking back and forth. Go, Axel, go! He also has started crawling--backwards! He pushes himself backwards with his hands. He really gets going on our hardwood floors. He has ended up in the corner of our dining area, and almost under the dresser in Reynald's and my room. He will be cookin' along before we know it! Will post a video of him doing his thing soon.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Updated pictures
I have been too busy to take time to download photos from my camera and then upload them here, so haven't been many photos for a while. So, here are some of the kids:
Last day of Axel's music class in mid-May
Just before Luka's race (and then Mommy's 9K)
Mother's Day 2006
Luka kayaking (!) at Boulder Creek Festival May 2006
Axel at Boulder Creek Festival May 2006
It was very hot!
Axel having a picnic in the back yard
(eating yogurt)
Axel trying to get out of his dinosaur bath towel
(note his adorable bottom teeth)
Luka's new hair cut - photo taken June 15, one day after
he visited the barber shop called "Chez Reynald"
Last day of Axel's music class in mid-May
Just before Luka's race (and then Mommy's 9K)
Mother's Day 2006
Luka kayaking (!) at Boulder Creek Festival May 2006
Axel at Boulder Creek Festival May 2006
It was very hot!
Axel having a picnic in the back yard
(eating yogurt)
Luka in back yard playing the "fou" 
Axel trying to get out of his dinosaur bath towel
(note his adorable bottom teeth)
Luka's new hair cut - photo taken June 15, one day after
he visited the barber shop called "Chez Reynald"
Picturs of New Baby Vernon William
Born: June 3rd, here is the newest addition to the family (our new nephew)!
2 days old
4 days old hanging out with Mommy
9 days old
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
What is a baby?
Baby. What is a baby?
When Luka was little, baby mean boobie.
Then, it meant his dollie ("Where is my baby?!" "Baby has to go sleddnig with me!")
Baby meant Luka to us when he was a tiny man.
Baby then meant Axel.
Baby could mean boobie to Axel, but we don't really call it by any name anymore. ;)
Axel was the baby. Now, in the wider family, he is still a baby, but not the baby since little Vernon William arrived a week ago. Will he be called Baby Axel like Luka was Baby Luka by his cousins? That was so sweet. He is still a baby. I guess he will always be my baby (as will Luka). Helen is for sure still the baby for our generation. ;)
When Luka was little, baby mean boobie.
Then, it meant his dollie ("Where is my baby?!" "Baby has to go sleddnig with me!")
Baby meant Luka to us when he was a tiny man.
Baby then meant Axel.
Baby could mean boobie to Axel, but we don't really call it by any name anymore. ;)
Axel was the baby. Now, in the wider family, he is still a baby, but not the baby since little Vernon William arrived a week ago. Will he be called Baby Axel like Luka was Baby Luka by his cousins? That was so sweet. He is still a baby. I guess he will always be my baby (as will Luka). Helen is for sure still the baby for our generation. ;)
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Lien sur le bilinguisme / Link on being bilingual
Un article sur Wikipedia (version française) sur le bilinguisme. Très intéressant. J'adore Wikipedia - en français et en anglais !
en français : http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bilinguisme
An article on Wikipedia about being bilingual. Very interesting. I just love Wikipedia - in French and in English!
in English: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multilingualism
en français : http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bilinguisme
An article on Wikipedia about being bilingual. Very interesting. I just love Wikipedia - in French and in English!
in English: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multilingualism
Axel has another toothie!
Axel has yet another toothie coming in. His top right tooth is just peeking through. Some people get blasé about milestones for their second kid, but here I am, blogging about his third tooth. Ha ha. He is just so cute though, and such a sweetie, even when teething. The only noticeable consquence seems to be that he did not have much of an appetite today. But, otherwise, he is just as sweet and nice as always. My Axel!
Dora the Explorer en français ?!
Luka loves Dora the Explorer. When he is allowed to watch videos/TV he always wants to watch Dora. This is in contrast to the same time last year when he looooooved T'Choupi and everything was about T'Choupi. He still likes T'Choupi a lot, but as little kid fixations go, he is way into Dora at the moment (or, rather, the last 6 months or so). He first saw Dora in January or February. I take the blame - I had never lot him watch US TV before. But, one day I let my guard down and let him see what temptations were out there in American kid TVland. ;) The exposure to Dora was deadly. The Teletubbies seems that it was only a passing fancy.
In any case, because English is everywhere and we still need as much input in French as possible to keep up his great skills, we are trying to get him to watch other stuff too. But, I also don't want to deny him of his current "obsession". So, I had this great idea....
I found out that, oui, Dora does exist in French! I came across a whole entry on this (and other foreign-language adaptations of Dora) in Wikipedia. What did we ever doe before Wikipedia? For the entry about Dora, go here: DORA EN FRANCAIS. Is the Internet great, or what?!
In any case, now, I am planning to buy some Dora episode's from Amazon in France. The only thing is, I hope it does not cause a wrinkle in the way he sees things (French and English in their separate compartments). He likes structure and it is important to him that some things are "French" and other things are "English". Dora is definitely "English" right now. Sometimes, if I try to talk about Dora to him in French, he does not like it and says in English, "Mommy, Dora does not speak French." Meaning, please talk about her in "her" language, which is English.
Well, I guess it won't send him into catatonic shock. We will see and I will post the results here. It will be a few weeks though, as it always takes a few weeks to get a delivery after I place French orders. More to come....!
In any case, because English is everywhere and we still need as much input in French as possible to keep up his great skills, we are trying to get him to watch other stuff too. But, I also don't want to deny him of his current "obsession". So, I had this great idea....
I found out that, oui, Dora does exist in French! I came across a whole entry on this (and other foreign-language adaptations of Dora) in Wikipedia. What did we ever doe before Wikipedia? For the entry about Dora, go here: DORA EN FRANCAIS. Is the Internet great, or what?!
In any case, now, I am planning to buy some Dora episode's from Amazon in France. The only thing is, I hope it does not cause a wrinkle in the way he sees things (French and English in their separate compartments). He likes structure and it is important to him that some things are "French" and other things are "English". Dora is definitely "English" right now. Sometimes, if I try to talk about Dora to him in French, he does not like it and says in English, "Mommy, Dora does not speak French." Meaning, please talk about her in "her" language, which is English.
Well, I guess it won't send him into catatonic shock. We will see and I will post the results here. It will be a few weeks though, as it always takes a few weeks to get a delivery after I place French orders. More to come....!
Monday, June 12, 2006
The Yucky Song
Luka likes the Yucky Song. What is the yucky song, you ask? No, it is not a song that is bad, it is: Yucky Doodle went to town a riding on a pony....
He really likes that song, even though it is the "yucky" song!
Axel update: today, Axel had his first babysitter! And, it was all day long! Mommy had a big client visit and he had a special French baby sitter who played games and took care of him for 10 (!) hours. I thought he 'd be dying to see me at the end of the day, but he was enamored with his new playmate and sad to see her go! My man is a real social little guy. (Luka was at school so he didn't get to spend much time with the fabulous French babysitter, but she was very impressed with his level of French--in her "other life" she is a private French teacher or teaches class for small children at the Alliance Française).
Axel also eats a TON. Here is an example of what he can eat at one sitting:
- Half an avocado
- A whole Gardenburger (veggetarian hamburger)
- A whole peach or banana
- A YoBaby yogurt
(All this is plus the milk he still gets from Mommy in the a.m., after naps, at night and sometimes in between).
I think he is going to be bigger than Uncle Vernon....over 6'6"!
Eve: Been working a lot lately, so hopefully this week will be a little more "normal." Whatever that means! :)
Reynald: did a bike "ride" of 95 miles last weekend and then climbed up (biking) high near Echo Lake last Saturday.
He really likes that song, even though it is the "yucky" song!
Axel update: today, Axel had his first babysitter! And, it was all day long! Mommy had a big client visit and he had a special French baby sitter who played games and took care of him for 10 (!) hours. I thought he 'd be dying to see me at the end of the day, but he was enamored with his new playmate and sad to see her go! My man is a real social little guy. (Luka was at school so he didn't get to spend much time with the fabulous French babysitter, but she was very impressed with his level of French--in her "other life" she is a private French teacher or teaches class for small children at the Alliance Française).
Axel also eats a TON. Here is an example of what he can eat at one sitting:
- Half an avocado
- A whole Gardenburger (veggetarian hamburger)
- A whole peach or banana
- A YoBaby yogurt
(All this is plus the milk he still gets from Mommy in the a.m., after naps, at night and sometimes in between).
I think he is going to be bigger than Uncle Vernon....over 6'6"!
Eve: Been working a lot lately, so hopefully this week will be a little more "normal." Whatever that means! :)
Reynald: did a bike "ride" of 95 miles last weekend and then climbed up (biking) high near Echo Lake last Saturday.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
New Nephew Born!
We have a new nephew!
Born to Tammy and Vernon - here are his first stats:
- 5th kid in his family
- second boy in his family
- 9th grandchild to Grandma (Mom)
- 6th boy grandchild
- born on his due date: Saturday, June 3, 2006 at 11:41 pm AK time (his mommy went into labor at 7:15 a.m.)
- 8 lbs. - 8 oz.
- 20.5 inches long
name: We think we know, but we will wait for confirmation. More to come!
Update: His name is Vernon William!
Born to Tammy and Vernon - here are his first stats:
- 5th kid in his family
- second boy in his family
- 9th grandchild to Grandma (Mom)
- 6th boy grandchild
- born on his due date: Saturday, June 3, 2006 at 11:41 pm AK time (his mommy went into labor at 7:15 a.m.)
- 8 lbs. - 8 oz.
- 20.5 inches long
name: We think we know, but we will wait for confirmation. More to come!
Update: His name is Vernon William!
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Recipe: Paella Stir-Fry
This is a tasty and quick version of classic Spanish paella. If you have a half day or more, prepare the real thing, otherwise, this does a good job of imitating the basic taste and is a quick substitute. For the true flavor, use Spanish paprika with its smoky flavor, or substitute equal parts Hungarian paprika with chipotle powder.
This recipe is from the (now defunct) magazine Organic Style (so sad that magazine is no longer, but that is another story).
- 1 pkg (5 - 8 oz) yellow-rice mix (with saffron)
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 4 tsp olive oil
- 3 oz smoked chorizo sausage links, diced (I use 3 - 4 full-sized mild Italian sausages, which is a bit more in weight, and is a substitute that is more easily found in the grocery store around here)
- 1 large onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch dice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-1/2 tsp Spanish paprika (preferably sweet) - I had trouble finding this locally, so I ordered it from LaTienda.com, but try specialty or gourmet shops and you should be able to find it.
- 1 pint cherry tomates, halved (or you can substitute a can of low/no salt diced tomatoes, but fresh is better)
- 16 medium shrimp - about 1/2 pound, peeled and deviened (you can buy it already prepped this way)
- Good quality salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2 TBS chopped flat-leaf parsely (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare yellow rice mix according to package directions, but omit butter and oil; use only 1-1/4 cups water (the rice shoudl be slightly al dentre when cooked). Remove the pan from heat and stir in the frozen peas; cover and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tsp oil in a wok or 12-inch nonstick skillet, over medium heat. Stir fry sausage until browned. Transfer to a plate. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, and remaining oil to wok; stir-fry until onions are soft, about 3 minutes. Add paprika and stir-fry 1 minute.
Return sausage to skillet along with tomatoes and shrimp. Stir-fry until shrimp are just cooked through and pink, about 2 minutes. Add rice and peas to wok and cook, stirring, until ingredients are combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Top with parsley and serve.
This recipe is from the (now defunct) magazine Organic Style (so sad that magazine is no longer, but that is another story).
- 1 pkg (5 - 8 oz) yellow-rice mix (with saffron)
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 4 tsp olive oil
- 3 oz smoked chorizo sausage links, diced (I use 3 - 4 full-sized mild Italian sausages, which is a bit more in weight, and is a substitute that is more easily found in the grocery store around here)
- 1 large onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch dice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-1/2 tsp Spanish paprika (preferably sweet) - I had trouble finding this locally, so I ordered it from LaTienda.com, but try specialty or gourmet shops and you should be able to find it.
- 1 pint cherry tomates, halved (or you can substitute a can of low/no salt diced tomatoes, but fresh is better)
- 16 medium shrimp - about 1/2 pound, peeled and deviened (you can buy it already prepped this way)
- Good quality salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2 TBS chopped flat-leaf parsely (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare yellow rice mix according to package directions, but omit butter and oil; use only 1-1/4 cups water (the rice shoudl be slightly al dentre when cooked). Remove the pan from heat and stir in the frozen peas; cover and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tsp oil in a wok or 12-inch nonstick skillet, over medium heat. Stir fry sausage until browned. Transfer to a plate. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, and remaining oil to wok; stir-fry until onions are soft, about 3 minutes. Add paprika and stir-fry 1 minute.
Return sausage to skillet along with tomatoes and shrimp. Stir-fry until shrimp are just cooked through and pink, about 2 minutes. Add rice and peas to wok and cook, stirring, until ingredients are combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Top with parsley and serve.
Axel's First (mini) Hair Cut!
I cut Axel's hair for the first time just a few minutes ago. He was sitting on my recently-cleaned hardwood floors and it was easy to clean up the little bit of hair off this surface. He is 3 days shy of 10 months old. I just snipped off a little bit in front because it needed to be trimmed. His hair is quite a bit lighter than Luka's, but they both have the same big brown eyes.
Also, Axel has two teeth now that are almost fully grown in: his bottom front teeth. Too cute!
Also, Axel has two teeth now that are almost fully grown in: his bottom front teeth. Too cute!
Sign Language Fun
Luka is learning some signs at school. He is really into it and likes learning new ones. He often asks me how to say various words in sign. I have used my friend Sanya as a resource (she is an audiologist who knows ASL), looked things up on the Internet, and made things up ("A" in sign for "Axel" and "L" in sign for "Luka").
See this website at Michigan State University for a "dictionary" of signs along with demonstrations using QuickTime video. Luka wanted to know how to say "trash" or "trash can" and Sanya pointed us here. Here is the alphabet demonstrated in conjunction with that same site.
Luka knows how to say:
Yes, No, Mom, Dad, Sorry, Please, Eat/Hungry, Drink/Thirsty, I love you, Thank you and some others. Also, we can say "trash" and "see you later".
He likes to ask questions and then have them answered in sign. He is having a lot of fun with it. I'd consider taking him to a class for preschool age hearing kids if I could find one.
As "Uncle" Steven pointed out, maybe it is the language thing that attracts Luka. In any case, he is having fun with it.
See this website at Michigan State University for a "dictionary" of signs along with demonstrations using QuickTime video. Luka wanted to know how to say "trash" or "trash can" and Sanya pointed us here. Here is the alphabet demonstrated in conjunction with that same site.
Luka knows how to say:
Yes, No, Mom, Dad, Sorry, Please, Eat/Hungry, Drink/Thirsty, I love you, Thank you and some others. Also, we can say "trash" and "see you later".
He likes to ask questions and then have them answered in sign. He is having a lot of fun with it. I'd consider taking him to a class for preschool age hearing kids if I could find one.
As "Uncle" Steven pointed out, maybe it is the language thing that attracts Luka. In any case, he is having fun with it.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Yogurt Galore
Like strollers, yogurt seems to profilerate with kids. We have YoBaby for Axel, Stonyfield kid yogurt for Luka, flavored low-fat yogurts for Reynald and big containers of plain yogurt for Eve. Lots and lots and lots of yogurt. I keep meaning to get a yogurt maker, but then I forget. I think it would save money and be flexible. Or would it be a hassle? Just can't decide... ;) Well, have to go eat some yogurt, will decide later.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Recipe: Clafoutis Revisited
I made a different Clafouti recipe for our dinner with friends on Friday, and it was very delicious, I must say (and Reynald agreed). This one was perhaps a bit thicker than the traditional clafouti, but we both thought it was really good!
3/4 cup flour
3 large eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 TBS Grand Marnier
Pinch of salt
Whole frozen raspberries - with no added sugar
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Butter 11-inch pan.
In a blender or food processor, process flour, eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla, Grand Marnier and salt until well blended; let rest 10 minutes.
Place enough raspberries, still frozen, to generously cover the bottom of the pan. (I like them tart, but if you would rather sweeten them a bit, sprinkle more sugar over them, or used pre-sweetened berries.)
Pour batter over the berries. Bake until golden brown and puffy, around 45 minutes (or less, actually--I have been making it and it should be checked at 30 minutes for sure). Should be set in the middle. Cool for 10 minutes.
Serve warm or at room temp. Whipped cream or ice cream can be used to top it off, though it is very good alone.
Recipe modified from: French Cooking for Beginners by Hélène Siegel.
3/4 cup flour
3 large eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 TBS Grand Marnier
Pinch of salt
Whole frozen raspberries - with no added sugar
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Butter 11-inch pan.
In a blender or food processor, process flour, eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla, Grand Marnier and salt until well blended; let rest 10 minutes.
Place enough raspberries, still frozen, to generously cover the bottom of the pan. (I like them tart, but if you would rather sweeten them a bit, sprinkle more sugar over them, or used pre-sweetened berries.)
Pour batter over the berries. Bake until golden brown and puffy, around 45 minutes (or less, actually--I have been making it and it should be checked at 30 minutes for sure). Should be set in the middle. Cool for 10 minutes.
Serve warm or at room temp. Whipped cream or ice cream can be used to top it off, though it is very good alone.
Recipe modified from: French Cooking for Beginners by Hélène Siegel.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Mother's Day
First Mother's Day with Axel (and 3rd with Mr. Luka!).
We all got up early and went to the Boulder Reservoir for Mommy to run in the Title 9K. Luka did a 200 yard "race" for kids right before (2-3 year olds). He thought that was so fun and the look of elation on his face when he was done was priceless. All that adrenalin running with all those kids (and parents--and me behind him yelling, "Go go go!")
My run started at 9 a.m. and there were close to 2000 runners, and lots of moms with strollers and some with bigger kids. I ran "free" while Reynald stayed with Luka and Axel.
I was pretty slow, but I met my goal of running the entire way, so that was good. I added 3 minutes to my Bolder Boulder time of 7 years ago (and this was 1K less!), but I guess that was not too bad for 2 kids, 7 years later and not really training that much! So, it has encouraged me to try and do more. We will see!
My race results: 698 out of 1079 finishers, time of 1:13:55, at a pace of 13:13 per mile.
After that, we went Ann and Cameron's. We had lunch and dinner there and Jessie and Luka had a blast playing madly all day. Cameron has some great kid-entertainment ideas and they loved it. Running (naked!) in the sprinkler (that is, the kids, not us!), water balloons, sidewalk chalk/paint, and playing in Jessie's gorgeous outside playhouse and her tent. And, they loved pushing each other in the doll's stroller. Boy, was that fun! Axel was a good-natured little man and even got in a 2-hour nap!
We also (finally) ordered a 4-bike rack for the CR-V (20% off at REI) that we'd been eyeing. We need it with all the kid gear now, to manage to get everything in the car. That was a good Mother's Day present.
We all got up early and went to the Boulder Reservoir for Mommy to run in the Title 9K. Luka did a 200 yard "race" for kids right before (2-3 year olds). He thought that was so fun and the look of elation on his face when he was done was priceless. All that adrenalin running with all those kids (and parents--and me behind him yelling, "Go go go!")
My run started at 9 a.m. and there were close to 2000 runners, and lots of moms with strollers and some with bigger kids. I ran "free" while Reynald stayed with Luka and Axel.
I was pretty slow, but I met my goal of running the entire way, so that was good. I added 3 minutes to my Bolder Boulder time of 7 years ago (and this was 1K less!), but I guess that was not too bad for 2 kids, 7 years later and not really training that much! So, it has encouraged me to try and do more. We will see!
My race results: 698 out of 1079 finishers, time of 1:13:55, at a pace of 13:13 per mile.
After that, we went Ann and Cameron's. We had lunch and dinner there and Jessie and Luka had a blast playing madly all day. Cameron has some great kid-entertainment ideas and they loved it. Running (naked!) in the sprinkler (that is, the kids, not us!), water balloons, sidewalk chalk/paint, and playing in Jessie's gorgeous outside playhouse and her tent. And, they loved pushing each other in the doll's stroller. Boy, was that fun! Axel was a good-natured little man and even got in a 2-hour nap!
We also (finally) ordered a 4-bike rack for the CR-V (20% off at REI) that we'd been eyeing. We need it with all the kid gear now, to manage to get everything in the car. That was a good Mother's Day present.
Friday, May 12, 2006
Mother's Day Tea at Luka's School
Every year, Luka's school has each classroom host a Mother's Day Tea on the Friday before Mother's Day. They kids had made us bath salts (that is what project those empty baby jars were needed for!) as a gift. They had little coupons for us, like, "One Free Hug From Luka". We had chocolate chip cookies and lemonade. We made a fun wire/bead project together to hold a picture. All the kids go crazy for Axel. He was a good man and I held him in my lap. Saw some of the other mommies I know. Fun!
Axel Says "Mama"
Today, Axel said "Mama" for the first time! I was making some puffs with artichoke/spinach filling and a raspberrty clafouti to get ready to some friends' for dinner (Reynald' wine-making friend from work). Luka was helping me cook ;) and Axel was eating cheese in his high chair. Luka said, "Mommy! Axe is calling you!" I thought so too--that he was saying it to me, rather than just saying the sounds (though it is the first time he made that particular sound as well).
I'd say his first real word then, might be "ma ma" but he did say the "da da" sound first--which he loves to say, as a matter of fact. He looooooves to say "da da da" and say it again and again and giggle and be proud while he is doing it. Now he is having fun with both, but I'd say, that "da da da" is still the predominant sound when he "talks".
I'd say his first real word then, might be "ma ma" but he did say the "da da" sound first--which he loves to say, as a matter of fact. He looooooves to say "da da da" and say it again and again and giggle and be proud while he is doing it. Now he is having fun with both, but I'd say, that "da da da" is still the predominant sound when he "talks".
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Axel 9-month check-up
Axel had his 9-month check up today at the doctor. A-OK; Roger; Full speed ahead. He's a healthy little man. Here are his stats:
Weight - 17 lbs and 14 oz (15th percentile)
Length - 28.25 inches (55th percentile)
Head circumference - 17.75 inches (50th percentile)
Looking good, X Man!
Weight - 17 lbs and 14 oz (15th percentile)
Length - 28.25 inches (55th percentile)
Head circumference - 17.75 inches (50th percentile)
Looking good, X Man!
Current Favorites and Update
Luka has some new favorite books--more in English since I have been taking him to the library--they have no books in French there;(.
He likes Chewy Louie (Louie was a very hungry puppy!), Curious George Goes Camping (that stinky skunk is pretty darn funny and the marshmallow roasting looks yuuuuuummy), Germs (the chicken pox germ who goes soft). Of course, some old favorites still hold sway too, such as There's a Wocket in my Pocket, Put Me in the Zoo and more.
Axel likes the Baby Einstein book with the mirror at the end (Luka loved that too as a baby), and "Pet the Baby Animals" with soft bunnies, ducklings, etc.
Some current favorite DVD's of Luka include anything Dora (we currently have Dora Fairytale Princess checked out, he owns the one with the whale and Diego, and we get other episodes on cable on demand sometimes). Not any Teletubbies lately...
Axel does not watch DVD's. (Relating to the controversy over the new baby Sesame Street DVD (click here for the Talk of Nation broadcast on this topic--some fireworks there). I would align myself with the "no TV for little guys" side in any case.)
The last few days, Axel has started initiating hide-and-seek (or peek-a-book) with his blankets. Too cute.
He likes Chewy Louie (Louie was a very hungry puppy!), Curious George Goes Camping (that stinky skunk is pretty darn funny and the marshmallow roasting looks yuuuuuummy), Germs (the chicken pox germ who goes soft). Of course, some old favorites still hold sway too, such as There's a Wocket in my Pocket, Put Me in the Zoo and more.
Axel likes the Baby Einstein book with the mirror at the end (Luka loved that too as a baby), and "Pet the Baby Animals" with soft bunnies, ducklings, etc.
Some current favorite DVD's of Luka include anything Dora (we currently have Dora Fairytale Princess checked out, he owns the one with the whale and Diego, and we get other episodes on cable on demand sometimes). Not any Teletubbies lately...
Axel does not watch DVD's. (Relating to the controversy over the new baby Sesame Street DVD (click here for the Talk of Nation broadcast on this topic--some fireworks there). I would align myself with the "no TV for little guys" side in any case.)
The last few days, Axel has started initiating hide-and-seek (or peek-a-book) with his blankets. Too cute.
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Luka Has a New Bike!
Sharp-looking, red 16-inch Giant. Luka got the hang of pedaling on this much bigger bike after a few minutes; going backwards to brake may take a bit longer! ;)
Full Cycle in Boulder on Pearl Street
But, on the way we passed the Full Cycle bike shop and I ended up getting Luka a new bike (!) and a new helmet. He is a stylin' little dude. People were literally cheering him as he biked and/or walked his bike back up Pearl to get to the car. Fun, fun! I just thought he was passed the trike stage and needed a new challenge. When we got home, he said he wanted to ride his "old bike" then - he was getting a bit tuckered out - but I think he will grow into the new bike quickly.
Full Cycle in Boulder on Pearl Street
But, on the way we passed the Full Cycle bike shop and I ended up getting Luka a new bike (!) and a new helmet. He is a stylin' little dude. People were literally cheering him as he biked and/or walked his bike back up Pearl to get to the car. Fun, fun! I just thought he was passed the trike stage and needed a new challenge. When we got home, he said he wanted to ride his "old bike" then - he was getting a bit tuckered out - but I think he will grow into the new bike quickly.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Recipe: Clafoutis
~ Clafoutis ~
This is an easy but tasty French country desert that I have made many times in the US with success. It is traditionally made with fresh cherries (with the pits, for more flavor), but you can make it from frozen fruit or other fresh fruit too.
Preheat oven to 325. Butter an 11 " deepish pie plate or shallow medium baking dish.
Mix together in blender (or combine very well with hand beater):
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1/2 cup flour
1 TBS sugar
2 tsp vanilla
Put ~3 c. cherries (blueberries, peaches, pears or plums, etc.) in bottom of the buttered dish. Sprinkle the more tart fruits with 1/4 c sugar. Pour batter over the fruit and bake 30 minutes or until set.
Serve cold, or warm with ice cream or whipped cream. If you serve cold, you can decorate it with powdered sugar.
Serves 6.
This is an easy but tasty French country desert that I have made many times in the US with success. It is traditionally made with fresh cherries (with the pits, for more flavor), but you can make it from frozen fruit or other fresh fruit too.
Preheat oven to 325. Butter an 11 " deepish pie plate or shallow medium baking dish.
Mix together in blender (or combine very well with hand beater):
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1/2 cup flour
1 TBS sugar
2 tsp vanilla
Put ~3 c. cherries (blueberries, peaches, pears or plums, etc.) in bottom of the buttered dish. Sprinkle the more tart fruits with 1/4 c sugar. Pour batter over the fruit and bake 30 minutes or until set.
Serve cold, or warm with ice cream or whipped cream. If you serve cold, you can decorate it with powdered sugar.
Serves 6.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Recipe: Whole Wheat Pizza Crust
Whole-Wheat Pizza Crust
Works great in a bread maker.
1 cup water
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup whole-wheat flour
1-1/2 tsp sea or kosher salt
2 TBS olive oil
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp or 1 pkg active dry yeast (if you live in Colorado, due to altitude, drop the yeast to a scant 1 tsp)
Set bread maker to dough only setting; put ingredients in according to your bread machine's instructions.
Once dough has finished (it should have risen one time), remove dough and punch it down; knead it 3 or 4 times. Divide in half. Each half will make 1 pizza. To use later, pat each piece into a 4-inch disk and wrap it in plastic wrap; place in freezer bag. Refrigerate up to 6 hours, or keep in freezer for up to 3 weeks. Before using, let chilled dough sit at room temperature until it becomes springy and pliable, which is 1 to 2 hours.
Works great in a bread maker.
1 cup water
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup whole-wheat flour
1-1/2 tsp sea or kosher salt
2 TBS olive oil
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp or 1 pkg active dry yeast (if you live in Colorado, due to altitude, drop the yeast to a scant 1 tsp)
Set bread maker to dough only setting; put ingredients in according to your bread machine's instructions.
Once dough has finished (it should have risen one time), remove dough and punch it down; knead it 3 or 4 times. Divide in half. Each half will make 1 pizza. To use later, pat each piece into a 4-inch disk and wrap it in plastic wrap; place in freezer bag. Refrigerate up to 6 hours, or keep in freezer for up to 3 weeks. Before using, let chilled dough sit at room temperature until it becomes springy and pliable, which is 1 to 2 hours.
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