The Art of Family

this moment

2011-09-09T07:11:00.002-05:00

{inspired by Soulemama} "A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember."

week of changes

2011-09-07T16:09:00.004-05:00

Last week, this is what our family room looked like:

And our kitchen: its quite a bit outdated, but still... homey.

We crossed our fingers, took a deep breath, and moved forward with dreams I've been having about our living and kitchen spaces for more than 9 years now... so we started to pack our things away.... and asked ourselves, "is this really happening?"

Putting things in boxes was an extremely exhausting process. With Ava just starting school, we felt like there was a lot being juggled. We woke up at 2am and started packing on a Sunday night. I knew the place would be changing dramatically - and some of our things... may not make a come back. It's interesting to see our lives temporarily stored away....

So this is what our living room looked like after the first few days of demo:

In the middle of the week, we have also visited with family, celebrated Eid {will have to do a separate post}, and have started to adjust to the new school routine... well, sort of. We also received a package in the mail from our best friends, David and Corbin. I can't remember the last time I received a package in the mail - just for me.

A copy of The Knowledge Book and The Help, the story that David, Corbin and I had been talking about via Facebook... They had read the book first while I watched the movie and was so moved by it. They convinced me, the book would be better {I knew it!} So I promised myself to get a copy. But they beat me to it!

It really warmed our hearts - because in the middle of all this chaos we are now calling "home" - and the change of events and routines... having these books sent to us made us think - that yes - even in all of this - we need some "me time," and do one of the things we enjoy so much - reading {thank you soo much David and Corbin}!

Then came this past weekend, when we literally "labored" on Labor Day and focused on the kitchen. The kids spent the weekend with their grandparents, and by Monday, Aaron and my Dad and I, removed all the tile flooring. I also managed to remove all the ceiling popcorn from the living area. By evening's end - I looked like I had showered with acoustic - and oh was I aching...

When the kids got home that night, we all cuddled in our bed and read from The Knowledge Book - the first chapter covering fun facts about our universe. The kids were even quizzing me - which is the hottest planet? The furthest? What's our galaxy called? "The Milky Way" Noah shouts!

Enthralled by the pictures - reminding me so much the first time I got ahold of my sister's science book and imagined myself floating in its pages. Oh how magical the moon seemed to me... the ethereal cloudy dots on the page made me wonder - is this really possible? I cut them out and pasted them into my journal and wrote about myself becoming an astronaut. I was certain I'd become one one day.

In the middle of the night - in between the ruffle of the sheets and the warm night, we all woke up and Aaron moved Noah back into his bed. Ava turned to me and in the dark said:

"Mommy. I'm so happy for you. I'm so happy that you are having the house that you want. I'm so happy and proud of you Mommy. You've worked so hard."

We nuzzled noses and she fell back asleep. I laid there thinking about my dreams. What I felt at that moment about what Ava said - was much bigger than any dream I've ever had.

And with that, I happily cried myself to sleep.

this moment

2011-08-26T06:18:00.000-05:00

{inspired by Soulemama} "A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember."

butterflies... and ballet

2011-08-24T22:47:00.001-05:00

Aaron is an incredibly dedicated father. And knowing him for as long as I have, I wouldn't expect anything less. Still, there are times when he's surprisingly so... that he gives my stomach butterflies.

And he didn't... nor did his mini-version.

I'm embarrassed to say, that Ava has asked to take dance classes for several years now. I just never thought it would take me that long to get her started. Maybe part of it was my personal lack of interest - because to be honest, ballet? I see its beauty {Nutcracker}, understand its passion {Billy Elliot}, and even a bit of cuteness {puffy tutus}... but I just didn't see it as a fit in our lives, nor how the benefits would offset the costs... like say for example, a science camp would...

After acknowledging that she really is starting school this year - it just seemed to me she needed to be doing something more fun {not to say that school isn't fun}, but fun more along the lines of being apart of something...

a part of something that gives her butterflies...

laundry game - count, sort, fold!

2011-08-24T18:53:00.005-05:00

After Noah and I got home from morning drop off, I felt somewhat misplaced - in my own home. Glancing over my to-do list, nothing seemed appealing... maybe its because I'm still not use to this "early" schedule. Letting out a big sigh, I look around the house to see which pile would explode first. Noah is out of underwear... bingo. We have to do laundry.

Wanting him to be in the same room as me {instead of playing on the computer}, I recruit his help.

Me: Noah, can you find your underwear and count how many pairs you have?
Noah: You said underwear. {He laughs}. Ok. But first.... You like my new hat Mommy? Do I look cool? {He laughs uncontrollably. Winks his eye, snaps a finger, and bobs his head back and forth}.
Me: You are soo funny Noah! Let me get my camera. {I snap this just before he pulls it off}.

So how many pairs did you find? Let's sort them. First tell me how many you have, and then how many Ava has. And then tell me, who has more? {I fold the remainder of the laundry while watching him}.
Noah: 6. I have 6. And Ava has {he counts} 6 too! Wow. How did that happen? They are the same!
Me: That's pretty cool. {Um... let's see what else we can do.} Oh Noah, can you please help me find all the yellow napkins? I think they are buried under here.
Noah: Yeah. One... two... three...four, five... This is like a treasure hunt. I can't believe it. Five! Is there any more? {he keeps digging}

Me: Well there should be 6 yellow napkins. {He pulls out the last one}. Let me show you how to fold them. First you make a big square like this. {I demonstrate}. Then take two of these corners and fold over.... like this - wait a sec. What shape is the napkin now?
Noah: A rectangle!
Me: That's right. Now watch. I fold take these two corners here - and fold over to the other side. Look what happens. Now what shape is it?
Noah: A square!
Me: And if I fold it again, its a {I'm interrupted}.
Noah: No. No. Let me do it. I know, I know. First you make it flat. Oh. There's not enough room. {He picks up the napkin, sits up and starts over again}. Okay, okay. I got it.

Noah: Then you make a rectangle. {He makes a serious face. Holds the corners with his fingers...} Then you make a square. Like this? No, wait. I can do it. {He repeats this over again to himself}. Then you make another rectangle. Like this Mommy?

Me: That's right Buddy. You got it. Now do the same thing to the other... five!
Noah: {He takes his time, and repeats, "rectangle. square" to himself until he finishes}. I did it! I did it! This is my luckiest day ever! {literally squealing}. Watch how I do it.... {he unfolds one and shows me}. I can't believe I can really do this! {squeal}.

Who knew you could folding laundry could be this much fun to a 4 year old? And learn at the same time... We practiced counting, sorting, which was "more or less", matching, and making shapes. This "laundry game" turned out to be a hands-on experience {which to me, is much more fun than any workbook exercise we've been doing thus far}.

I may not have dinner napkins that are perfectly matched on all corners - but what I do have is a very proud little boy.

I'm sure there are many more learning opportunities that stem from the "every day" - what are some of yours?

first day of kindergarten

2011-08-23T11:13:00.010-05:00

Thanks so much for all the thoughts and prayers everyone. The big day arrived, and as expected, I couldn't compose myself entirely... I knew I was going to cry, and I did. Aaron did much better- His face just turned red... had watery eyes.... we just couldn't believe her first day of school was here!

The outfit I wanted to dress her in got moved to tomorrow since today is gym class... so we went for comfort and all of her hair pulled back. Aaron and I were so nervous, bumping into each other, getting ready ourselves, remembering to breathe... that we didn't prepare a special fun breakfast like we had imagined. Or say a special family prayer.... the time, even though we woke up at 5am, didn't help. There was just so much going on....

Ava started her morning with excitement, saying over and over again, "I can't believe I'm going to school!" She made a card for her teacher...

Then we headed out the door -

Noah was such a terrific sport. Feeling the excitement for his sister, and so happy for her. He didn't ask when and if he was going to go to school. He just observed everything as we approached the school, where the yard was filled with parents, grandparents and kids of all ages...

Outside of her classroom - the most unbelievably - unexpected thing happened to us. As Ava handed her teacher an apple, her card and hugged her, Aaron leaned over to me and whispered, "the camera isn't working".... Of all the days!?! My little trusty camera that's captured Ava and Noah's childhoods, weathered sand and rain on countless trips, and even sustained photography lessons with Ava - went kaput. Reloading the battery, helped take these last shots, before it quit again... My time was running out. The bell rang. Aaron and I were the only parents in the room. I just had to look into Ava's eyes - one more time. And let her know how happy and excited and proud I am for her to get to this day.

And maybe cry a little before letting go...

Looking back as I was standing in the doorway - I snapped this picture with my iphone. She was off... ready to get started, and be a kindergartner. She didn't look up. It was time. I headed straight for the exit for air.

Aaron and I held Noah's hands while walking back to the car. Noah said, "I think Ava's going to have a lot of fun." Aaron and I looked at each other, and knew how right Noah was... At home, we surprised Noah with a gift - a snap circuit board and doodle book for us to do today.

When I troubleshooted my camera it dawned on me that today's occasion is the best reason to upgrade for the camera on my wish list. Aaron had tried to purchase the Canon 5d Mark II for anniversaries, birthdays, and Eid gifts in the past, but for the sheer reason of cost, I would graciously decline.

Today is Ava's first day of school - to me, that's a good enough reason to make the investment now {and the fact that my SLR gave up}. I emailed a few friends for camera store suggestions - and both agreed Arlington Camera was the place to go. After making sure they had one in stock, we drove 40 minutes to pick it up. 3 hours later, we were driving back home with a new camera {and a rented battery since it takes 24hrs to charge the new battery} and then headed straight to the school to pick her up and snap the first moment she walked out the door...

Perhaps the distraction of the camera situation was part of the Big plan because it made the day fly like colors. I didn't have the time, nor the energy to dwell on Ava not being with us today {although when I left the camera store and looked into the backseat of the car and saw her empty car seat, I let out a small sigh}. Oh.. life is so funny like this, isn't it?

And so are the kids - who wave through life's changes - in their own way...

Blue Sky Organizer Giveaway Winner!

2011-08-22T16:29:00.000-05:00

Thanks for participating in the Blue Sky Home Series Giveaway! Our winner is...

The number of eligible commenter's were entered into Random.org's site, and commenter HudHud is our winner! I'll be in touch about the delivery details! Thanks so much for everyone else who played along!

Happy Kindergarten!

2011-08-21T20:48:00.001-05:00

This year - there's only been one thing on my mind - K.I.N.D.E.R.G.A.R.T.E.N. And there's no escaping it. Well... I guess there is. And up until last Thursday, I had convinced myself {and was working on Aaron} to consider homeschooling Ava. I am not ready to let her go. I'm not ready to miss her so much. I'm not ready to separate her from Noah. I'm not ready to disrupt the non-existent routine we have. I'm not ready for this.

Last Thursday we met her teacher for the first time - {happy sigh} and she made me feel so much more at ease. The truth is {clearing my throat}, she's actually too great. She is so warm, sincerely empathetic, and has such a loving, nurturing presence about her. Her smile is a mile wide, and she emphasized how our communication and comfort is equally important. That night I shared with my Mom and sisters - my secret... {whispering I say, "Ava's teacher... is so awesome!"}.

Knowing this - put a huge smile on my face all day Friday - while getting ready for Ava's Happy Kindergarten dinner party with our families. My stomach still squirmed... now and then... I can just feel the clock ticking inside my heart...

But here's a snapshot of the party:

Using a lot of what we already had at home- decorating was easy... globes, easels, letter blocks spelling out words....

For the dessert table, I knew there would be little room after dinner, so I picked treats guests could take home with them in to-go boxes...

Since this was going to be family-style dining, the kids had their own table -

We set out crayons for them to draw on the table and filled containers I found in the school aisle at the dollar store with rainbow goldfish to snack on while they waited for dinner to be served...

Aaron made paper airplanes - which we hung off the chandelier {smiling}. The flower arrangement came from Whole Foods.

The serving table -

The cake table: school desk {flea market find}, homemade cake and microscope from the 1960s that belonged to Aaron's Dad....

Ava picked out her own cake flavors - she wanted buttercream cake with pink vanilla icing... And since purple is another favorite color, this miniature composition book from Party City and star candle were perfect!

We had dinner catered from Whole Foods {salmon, empanadas, artichoke-lemon fritters, pecan crusted salad} and Macaroni & Grill {Pasta Milano - Ava's favorite}.

Enjoyed great family/dinner conversation... the typical topics of what's in the news, corrupt politicians, the economic crisis... Oprah...

The kids did a craft activity too. They each had a pencil case they could personalize with stickers and then fill with pencils...

We sang "Happy Kinder-garten" to the tune of "Happy Birthday" - I didn't cry at all, which was surprising. I think I was caught in the moment of celebrating on this night and eating yummy cake, rather than really thinking about her starting school...

Lots of pictures... Proud Grandpa...

Proud Grandmas....

It was getting late - and although there was still so much to talk about, and comfort each other about- we all acknowledged... that Ava is ready. She handed out her party favors to everyone - these were made to order - candy red apples from Rocky Mountain - along with mini composition books.

For the kids, we had "paper lunch sacks" filled with school treats - erasers shaped like scissors, glue and stapler, mini paint set, a globe pencil sharpener, box of colored chalk, pencil tin case, large pencils, chocolates shaped like soccer/basket balls, and chocolate milk!

Ava was showered with gifts - her new backpack! {No. 5 from this post} along with other "school treats" from the family.

We were so honored to throw this celebration for her. So humbled by her thankfulness and of the time we've been blessed to have with each other and help her grow. Tomorrow - a whole new journey begins. Aaron has taken the day off from work - and the both of us will be crying. We will be smiling. We will be screaming with excitement and yet so bone-breaking confused - "are we doing the right thing?" We will hold her and walk her to class. We will kiss her a million times. And most definitely - we will make sure she knows, that we are ever so proud of our Ava...

Oh... the hyperventilating begins...

getting organized and giveaway!

2011-08-17T10:42:00.005-05:00

We are just 5 days away from Ava starting Kindergarten... {sighing}, and I can't express enough what a whirlwind of emotions, events, excitement, and oh yes, organization has been happening around here. I'm a huge fan of to-do lists. I love to see my pink highlighter cross over the tasks I've been procrastinating. The problem I have been still struggling with though, is that my process of organization - sometimes needs organizing itself.

Lo and behold - last month, 2 Moms Media, LLC shared the release of some Blue Sky Home Series products that could help me wager my priorities, get me back on track and plan a week, month and year in advance - just in time for our new school year.

Judging by the amount of activities we have done {and didn't miss} as a family this past critical month, shopping and getting everything on the list {instead of several trips}, and event planning for... well events I didn't think I'd even have the time for... I'd say my new Weekly/Monthly planner has won me over. The main reason being its got ample space to jot down the small details - before the bigger stuff can be accomplished - efficiently.

I also love how this gives me an overview of what's been done - kind of like a family journal of our days. For those unexpected plans, I'll go back and add it, like date nights, or trips to the sno cone stand {smiling}. I also love its big size. I can tote it around by itself {and it won't get lost}.

The other product I'm loving is my new mouse pad - which is how it should have always been - a mouse AND a pad. Instead of cluttering the inbox, or getting sidetracked, I make a quick note on this pad to "do" later... or notes to self to go back online and shop for. which ahem... I've been doing a lot lately with school supplies. This product is genius!

If you don't have a magnetic pad on the fridge already to capture your grocery list - you really should. Alongside the children's artwork, I've added this to the fridge to help me keep track of exactly what it is that we're out of.... facial moisturizer... ketchup... you get the idea.

It's also helped us avoid wandering the grocery store aisles and overbuying stuff we don't really need. Aaron can grab this sheet and know exactly what to get {its organized by category} on his way home, and even minimize the trips to the grocery store to once a week! The Grocery Checklist magnetic notepad is a win-win!

We also got a Don't Forget To door pad - which I haven't had a chance to use yet. But I can see this being useful for Aaron - on his way out the door... like pick up dry cleaning... call the pool guy... bring home fresh flowers for your wife...

And what makes this entire line genius? There are lots of formats to choose from - whether you like small wallet-size planners, or large calendar sizes... its all designed by Susy Jack* Contemporary Paper - so everything coordinates... are available at Target {now through September}... and range in price from $4 - $10!

And now for the giveaway!
Blue Sky Home Series has graciously offered to send an Art of Family reader a sampler set of their products to try out for themselves - just in time for the new school year! Maximum 3 entries per household. Here's how:

Leave a comment below sharing your favorite organizational tip AND do one of the following:

1} Subscribe to The Art of Family. {See left-hand column}
If you are already a subscriber, try 2 & 3.

2} Follow me on Google Connect. {See left-hand column}
If you are already connected, try 1 & 3.

3} Share this post's link to your Facebook, spread the word!
If you don't have a FB account, have a friend join through Google Connect. and also leave a comment, and then leave a comment yourself letting me know.

If you do all 3 - that's 3 separate entries and more chances to win! If you have any questions - just let me know! Good luck!

Rules: The giveaway ends at 11:59 PST on August 21 and is open to US & Canadian residents only. I will draw a winner at random on August 22 - and post the winner's name. Please be sure you leave your email address so I can contact you if you win.

Disclosure: I received assorted product samples from 2 Moms Media, LLC for this review, but have not been paid to review the product or give my opinions. The views and opinions expressed here are all of my own.

lego fun - supersized

2011-08-15T11:41:00.002-05:00

This past weekend, we surprised the kids on Sunday and took them to the Legoland Discovery Center here in Grapevine, TX. It took quite a bit of coordination in advance to get here. Several months ago when we wanted to go, we checked online, and everything was "full." This time, we purchased a time slot that was available days in advance - as the site advised. But we didn't realize until we got there, that this only secured our time slot... to wait in line!

And we can see why. The place is wall to wall covered with families making stuff, playing, jumping, climbing, riding, eating, and even just standing there on their smart phones {which was frustrating}. Other than the sheer crowds, I was impressed by what the center offered young kids.

For example this play area - requires children to wear socks. Which we didn't have or know we needed. Good thing the lego shop stocked them - $1 a pair. Children were also not allowed to exit the play area until a staff person matched them with their parent... which is a relief.

And the rides were pretty sweet - thrilling enough for the kids' brave hearts, and fun enough for us to ride a long.

The real lego action came when the kids built their cars and raced them. This giant ramp was an exuberant idea for Noah, as he loves anything and everything that has to do with vehicles. At home he races them on the floor... but here, he got to see the car he made practically fly off the ramp and crash. By rebuilding it, he learned how to make it light enough, but sturdy to win... over and over again.

Ava enjoyed the car races... but perhaps the karaoke stage in the Princess castle area even more. She sang Itsy Bitsy Spider and Head, Shoulders Knees and Toes... with complete passion... feeling like like an instant star... something she's always wanted to do.

But as a family - I have to say, our favorite part was catching the 4D shows. We got rained on, snowed on, felt like we were riding in a helicopter with our hair blowing.... the simulations were fantastic! The good part is that they are also short enough to enjoy the experience. After 10 minutes of trying to use the glasses, I was ready to take them off.

There is something so timeless about Legos. And the Discovery Center is worth exploring at least once. 2-3 hours is plenty of time to explore the fun and watch all the 4D shows- but by 5pm, the place started to clear up, and we were able to zig zag freely... which meant a longer stay. By 6:30, we were tired, and ready go... especially the kids who snoozed during the car ride home.

Before you go....
Definitely check out their website before you go - discounted tickets are available for purchase online. Plus this will help ensure you can get in line.

Plan on bringing socks and yummy food with you {cafe selection is minimal}.

Also, be prepared for crowds. If you have a thing about germs - then this place isn't for you. The play areas are touched by thousands of hands - and I didn't see any cleaning done at any point of our 4 hour stay. Be sure the kids wash up often! Also, have a plan of action of what the kids should do if they should get lost.

Make the best of it - at times I wanted to approach other parents who were just sitting on top of the play area dividers and using their smart phones, to move so that the kids could have a space to build - it just wasn't worth it. The kids quickly learned to work around the chaos - hopping from one area to the next - as the flow of the crowds pushed them... which I think takes away from the actual time, environment and concentration kids need to be creative and encouraged to build.

Ramadan paper lanterns

2011-08-11T09:09:00.001-05:00

Lots of wonderful craft ideas out there to get the kiddos involved with the celebrations of Ramadan. Lanterns are commonly used to light up and decorate the streets at night - when everyone is out. But at home, this works just as well for us to decorate our table with.

We used a template from Smart Ark. The glue stick didn't work too well - so I eventually had to pull out the masking tape and add some to the tabs from the inside. You're suppose to cut out the squares on the inside so that when these are attached to a string of lights, they can show through. But we used ours to decorate our kitchen table... and of course, pretend they were telescopes for a bit...

More great ideas on Smart Ark's fun page...

kids backpacks... from sentimental to sweet finds

2011-08-05T13:23:00.001-05:00

Earlier in the year, Dad found a purple backpack along curbside that looked new. He picked it up, dusted it off, and filled it with a ruler, calculator, glue, and even chapstick and presented it to Ava {without telling my Mom, who has been wanting to buy Ava's first backpack for years}. Ava was absolutely elated... and gave him a giant hug. It was a very sweet moment for Dad and Ava.

Mom still wanted to buy her something new. So over the course of the months she'd ask, "Ava, what kind of backpack would you like Grandma to buy you?" ... and Ava's why-didn't-you-know? kind of reply was always the same: "I already have a backpack. The one Grandpa gave me." {smiling}.

When Mom was little, she remembers carrying a leather satchel to school... and when I was a kid, I received a vinyl backpack satchel as a gift... it was white with colorful animals on it, and it was my most favorite piece I owned {more than toys}. In high school, my older sister traveled to Greece and brought back a leather brown messenger bag. Its 15 years old, and I still carry it into the office with me. Satchels just bring back fond memories... but that's not to say that the bag Ava carries at the start of her academic career - will actually be with her for always {although wouldn't that be sweet?}

So let's think outside that box for a moment... and see what's out there. Here are my favorite picks:

1} Resembling almost exactly what I have, this leather backpack from the Cambridge Satchel Company in the UK, is just timeless - and is at the top of my wish list for Ava. It comes in several sizes, vibrant colors like yellow and orange, and is priced at around $151USD.

2} This red leather Japanese pack, or Randoseru, a term borrowed from the Dutch meaning backpack, is such a, well, Japanese version of #1. Japanese style is as hip and trendy as they come. I read how its common for Japanese grandparents to purchase these as gifts for their grandchildren starting school, {how appropriate} and accommodates kids for 6 years. It's so beautifully simple - and I love the red. It's size is a deterant though - approximately 9x11" - and so is the price. Even on ebay, new ones are going anywhere from $99 to $850 USD. I know... I know....

3} The messenger bag from Apple & Bee... such a cute design isn't it? The wooden buttons, little birdie... I feel like Ava should be riding a bike with this slung over her side. If it had backpack straps - it would have even been better. The pluses? It's made out of 100% organic material, and is also reversible - so 2 designs for 1, for $30 USD.

4} I'm a huge fan of quilted bags. A few years ago, my friends helped me make my own quilted tote - granted it took me a year to finish - but still, I carry that thing everywhere. There's just something so vintage, comfortable, and everlasting about quilts. This one is Vera Bradley - and if you're a fan of hers, you can choose a handful of designs that come in both preschooler and big kid sizes. The Viva la Vera pattern (shown above) is currently on sale for $75 USD.

5} The Solar System bag by Crocodile Creek is just one example of how the designs are unique to its brand. The quality is on par with others in the market {if not better} - but how cute is this solar system bag? my favorite... Pluto is actually crying in this scene... and there are matching lunch boxes and drink bottles too. This is a bit sentimental for me, since Ava loves astronomy and learning about the planets. A huge contender for us, priced at $28 USD!

6} Last but not least, this one caught my eye too. "Papar" is the name of this owl, and she comes from Dante Beatrix - a popular line carried in stores around us and online. I can just picture Ava walking to school feeling, "I didn't get my donuts and milk this morning. Grrrr...." LOL! More fun designs to choose from for both boys/girls and run about $52USD.

So what do you think? Which one is your favorite? And what will your little one be carrying to school this year?

Ramadan 2011 - Family Resources

2011-08-02T11:47:00.012-05:00

I can't believe its already August! And Ramadan is here!! A time to slow down and be mindful of ourselves, spiritually and physically, and of those around us in our communities, family and friends.

Of course I think that should be a daily thing for us all - but life gets in the way sometimes. Like for me, my intense anticipation of Ava starting school has been bubbling up inside of me for the past month now- so I'm not completely myself these days. Everything feels so rushed, even maddening at times. We're even taking on some home renovations too... and well, there's finances to contend with... and the list goes on.

Yesterday was the first day of Ramadan... {exhaling}... and I'm looking forward to the next 29 days of practicing these better habits. Over the course of the month we'll be posting Ramadan related stories... and Eid celebration ideas, but for now, I wanted to share with you a few of my favorite resources about our holiday:

Educational References
What is Ramadan? - Wikipedia, BBC News, and About.com
The Whitehouse - President Obama's Message

Curriculum and Teaching Ideas
Lifetime Learning at Home - A wonderfully organized homeschool blog outlining projects and teachings for preschoolers.

Books

My First Ramadan by Karen Katz. I bought this book several years ago and its genuinely a great book to introduce children to Ramadan basics and cultural traditions practiced all over the world. Ava loved all of Katz' books as a toddler. Her lift-the-flap books mimic curiosity while others integrate lessons about sharing, being a big sister, and even controlling emotions - all are so graphically portrayed through color and exaggerated shapes. So to have this book as part of our collection by Katz, is a lot of fun.

Reading scripture from the Quran is essential - and a copy of My First Quran Storybook is a great foundation to start with. Written for the younger set in mind, this is a great book to read together as a family and explore the historical time line of how things came to "Be" as well as the moral messages and teachings. It also sparks great conversation - like the Story of Prophet Noah - and the kids want to know "why?" Growing up, I learned not to question the stories from our Holy Book. Seeing my own children ask in the same wonder, compels us to openly discuss and share what we each think. And of course, there will be open ended responses, that even they are content with. These are treasured conversations indeed.

There are terrific online resources too - from educational teachings ideas, photography from all over the world. Here are my favorite picks:

Creativity

Used with permission: Ramadan Joy

Ramadan Joy is a creative companion for families during the month of Ramadan, and includes wonderful arts and crafts ideas, fun recipes, sewing projects, and gift ideas. The "Ramadan Joy" and the "Barakah Life handmade" blogs are part of Barakah Life, a Creative Living company offering products, classes and workshops. Owner Khadija is also co-founder of Creativity and the Spiritual Path, a platform of creative conversations, with artist Peter Gould {also worth checking out! especially his artwork for kids!!}

Used with permission: Handmade Beginnings

I'm also in love with Handmade Beginnings - this Mom's entire blog is dedicated to nourishing and educating beginnings with her own children - from Islamic teachings, to Montessori lesson plans, as well as ideas for crafts, recipes, and so much more. Check out her blog for ideas and daily inspiration!

Crayola never disappoints - we've used their coloring pages last year - and plan to again this year. There are other ideas for older children to try their hand at geometric art and portraits.

Photography
Photography has a special place in my heart. And it sings when the kids get behind the lens too, or browse through pictures with a sincere appreciation and remembrance of the moment passed. Looking at Ramadan photos from around the world - makes us feel smaller, yet collective.. and of course, makes us crave traveling to see these these places for ourselves...

Times Live, The Washington Post, USA Today and of course, Peter Gould!

just a cardboard box

2011-07-26T09:56:00.000-05:00

Oh... the simple joys of a playing with a cardboard box! Ava came into the bedroom wanting to tell me about the weather - in a very reportedly way. So I found her empty radio box in the garage, cut out a "screen" and put it over her head. And just like that, she was reporting the weather from the tube. Its quite funny hearing her interpret the news - since we don't watch it at home. But she described the sunny day ahead very vividly, and flipped her "paper" to move on to the next topic.

The "TV" didn't have to be painted, or fancied up - kids see past these so quickly so that they can focus on the good stuff - the fun! With just a little creativity with what you already have at home (no store bought stuff) playtime using our imaginations - is indeed priceless. You might want to also grab your video camera too - oh the things they say....

kids make dinner: pizza pinwheels

2011-07-25T09:12:00.003-05:00

Planning dinner sometimes feels like we're playing yahtzee - but instead of dice, thoughts of, "what to make... what to make?..." are tossed in our heads. Aaron's the chef in our household, but when you have a tough day at work, hit the pool with the kids after wards - there's little time left to prepare a hearty, nutritional, the kids-will-eat-it kind of a meal. Which is why recipes from websites like, mealsmatter.org - that are healthy and easy enough for the kids to help with - are a perfect go-to resource.

Jump for more pics of the kids making pizza pinwheels! It takes about 10 minutes to prepare 12 mini "pies" and just 6 minutes in the oven, leaving much more time for us to sit around the table together - and savor the dinner prepared by the kids much more...

You can use your own variation with what you have at home, but here's a quick recap of the ingredients we used using this recipe:

melted butter {Smart Balance}
1 package of English Muffins sliced in halves
1 jar of pizza sauce {or tomato sauce}
shredded mozzarella
toppings of your choice

With melted butter, the kids "painted" their muffins...

Then scooped spoonfuls of the pizza sauce {we added a bit of olive oil and garlic powder}.

Aaron chopped onions for Ava {her favorite topping} so she got teary while sprinkling her cheese...

Noah's favorite is black olives. As well as art. So he played with his food and made smiley faces on all 6 of his muffins, and called it " best friends."

How fun and easy was that?

preparing for kindergarten

2011-07-21T07:48:00.004-05:00

Counting down. In less than 1 month, Ava will start kindergarten - and I am more than just beside myself. The summer has taken up our days... with this or that. And when we pause, I remember, "Ava, we need to work on your workbooks right now!" Workbooks that help her practice cutting, matching, answer riddles, write her alphabet, count, and so on. Some times she finds it very boring. And her restlessness has her squirming in her chair, or day dreaming. She's easily distracted, and will ask me questions, and I have to help her refocus. Not always easy. In fact, I find myself huffing and puffing during these moments. Yesterday was one of those moments. She finished an entire notebook, skipping the coloring exercises. So when I asked her to go get her markers so she could finish - she came back like this:

We both laughed. So hard. And it made me realize that although I have been on this mad dash to make sure she's "prepared" for kinder, the most important thing we have to be prepared for - are knowing when to embrace moments like these.

I love you Ava. I know you will do a fantastic job in school. And I know, that your light-hearted, don't be so serious... make time for laughs and have fun, kind of attitude will serve you well for the rest of your life. Much more... than coloring inside the lines.

Even I am still learning that... I'm proud its from and with you, Ava.

this moment

2011-07-15T08:01:00.000-05:00

{inspired by Soulemama} "A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember."

3 techniques, 2 days, 1 mr. seahorse

2011-07-13T15:14:00.001-05:00

Inspired by this assignment from Deep Space Sparkle - a fantastic art blog - we set out to produce artwork like the great Eric Carle too. I thought this would be a fun project to try on this summer day - because A&N love Mr. Seahorse and it brings back memories of our beach trip. The layers, techniques, and two-day process was part of the beauty of this art project. Most of the time when kids do "art" they have an idea in mind. Here, they discovered how "art" itself can be pieced together - to make even bigger art.

Jump over to our Creative Crafting corner to see how this:

turned into this:

Don't forget to jump over here!

chapter books

2011-07-12T20:37:00.002-05:00

Through the years, we have filled our shelves with countless picture books for the kids. Both Aaron and I are huge fans of books in general {from the smell and touch to the story plots and knowledge learned...} Picture books for the kids say a thousand words - they like to look at each page before its turned and examine different things... point out expressions, or what "others" not in the story are doing. This makes reading with the kids the same book over and over again - timeless, which I think, is what makes a good book - wonderful.

But we're trying something new now - chapter books. While at a bookstore in Alys Beach, I came across a series of chapter books that looked like Judy Bloom kind of fun I remembered reading as a kid. This series had big printed words, black and white sketches on every other page... could the kids sit with us long enough to listen? Could they follow along, or begin to recognize words used repeatedly?

So we gave Ivy + Bean a try. And the kids both sat through 40 pages in the first book {which took about 30 minutes because of the interruptions of questions they had. Good questions too}. The dialogue is what was missing from picture books. As if we were standing right there, we could "see" Bean's moaning facial expression when her older sister bosses her around. Or sense the excitement in Ivy's eyes when she pretends to be a witch and cast a spell. Its fascinating. Entertaining, and a whole new world for the kids - and us reading with them.

Aaron started reading book 4 last night, and even he enjoyed narrating the adventures of Ivy and Bean with their babysitter. I have to admit though - I'm a bit disappointed in some of the language, {stupid, dumb, ugly, etc}, but we catch ourselves beforehand and skip over these. Censorship is good at this age, but I'm afraid not ever lasting as they get older and can read on their own. Do seven year olds really talk like this? {I'm rolling my eyes}. That's the intended audience of these books. Oh goodness I hope not.

So we're looking for more conservative yet equally adventuresome and captivating chapter books - if anyone has any recommendations - please do share. We've stepped up our reading, and we can hardly put the chapter books down...

sorting and matching and more

2011-07-11T09:26:00.002-05:00

Last week, I picked up a new game for the kids called Seasons - Sort and Match Science Game from Lakeshore Learning. The kids had fun sorting the miniature figures into what they thought belonged to the right season. We took turns picking out an item from the box, and if it didn't go with their season card, it was the next person's turn. As each object came out of the box, I asked questions about them. After Ava placed her sunglasses in "summer" I asked if we wear sunglasses any other time of the year? Or why we can't build a snowman in Spring? And general facts about weather...

The learning went on and on... Science is wonderful - and when its fun like this, its so much easier to play, imagine, and think of science as part of every day life.

We modified the game to "what doesn't belong?" - Ava liked closing her eyes and then trying to figure out which of the items I moved and switched up ... this was too easy... but fun!

These cute miniature things reminded me of practicing our letter sounds too. My sister gave me this idea - she created a tub full of miniature pieces she gathered from here and there, representing each of the alphabet letters to help her kids practice matching the letter sound each figure matched with. This gave me an idea. I combined the pieces from our Picnic game, and asked Ava to do the same, and match the object with its corresponding letter.

A few stumped her - she said the name out loud, but she wasn't sure if "clothes" started with the letter "C" or "K" - tricky I know... so let's keep practicing!

There are many ways you can play matching and sorting at home:

Gather items from around the house from their games or toys, or clip pictures from your used magazines or junk mail. {To make them sturdier, glue the pictures onto index cards, and cut the shape out}.

A set of alphabet letters, either the magnet kind for the fridge, or wooden ones from a puzzle, {or make your own using index cards and writing a letter on each sheet - no need to cut out}.

Spread the letters on the table, or spell out their name with it, and then have them find objects that go with the letter.

Other ideas:
Art project collage: If you use magazine clippings. Glue all the objects they found to match the letters in their name, or of a theme - on a piece of card board, or construction paper sheet and decorate!

Make your own themed wheel cards: as in this example with seasons, to practice more sorting - Things that belong inside our home or outside? Vegetable or Fruit? Living or Non-Living?

Have fun!!

this moment

2011-07-08T07:19:00.001-05:00

{inspired by Soulemama} "A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see."

setting sail

2011-07-07T11:15:00.001-05:00

Who needs pool toys, when you can sail a boat? To change things up a bit during splash time, Ava and I made 20 paper boats with the stack of square fluorescent note sheets we had at home. I can't remember how old I was or who taught me how to make a boat, but after looking online to link for this post, I realized I do it a little bit differently. I'll have to share that with you in a second post. After doing it just once, Ava was able to make some of her own... and then we played the voices of the ships preparing to hit the high seas...

It was mesmerizing for the kids to watch these tiny boats quickly make their way to the other end of the pool. Some flipped and softened under the water, while others huddled, bumping into each other.

The giants came along to help...

as well as rescue...

After they were all saved, Ava put on her goggles and fished out the sunken ships. Noah crumbled the colored pieces of paper together - noting how the blue and pink made - purple! This was the longest morning we've spent in the pool - but I guess when it comes to making things float, sink, and sail over waves - is reason enough.

dining room redo

2011-07-06T00:31:00.002-05:00

So.... back in November, I was craving a redo of our dining room. I had an inspiration board of sorts... and well - so much has happened between then and now... and finally, this past May, in time for Noah's birthday, we finished it. Well, most of it anyway.

This is what it looked like before...

and here's where we are now...

More pics and details of how we pulled this together are posted in the homestyle section of our blog. It was an ambitious project to finish in less than 2 weeks...

this moment

2011-07-01T10:07:00.001-05:00

making summer memorable - alys beach 2011

2011-06-30T10:33:00.013-05:00

Our 4th annual family beach vacation was a memorable one. As I shot these photos, I couldn't help but remember the years traveled - and looking through my lens - how different, how grown up... the kids are now. My sister and her family planned a trip out west, and although we were tempted to tag along, Ava grounded me to our summer tradition and the promise to return to the "beach" since she was 2 years old. This year was no different - she wanted to be at the beach - for 7 full days. I tempted her with Disneyland... but she refrained, and said she's outgrown the "princess stuff" {that's actually very good news!}

So we left at 3am on Saturday and headed east - to Alys beach - the furthest beach we've stayed at along Florida's Gulf Coast. We arrived by 6pm, changed, and raced to feel the tip of the ocean...

There are so many photos I wish to share here - so instead, I put together 4 slide shows of some of our beach moments. The scrapbook story begins with our great escape... to simply get away.... which is what the kids have been waiting to do with us since the last snowfall...

We chanced the weather, water, and what our beach stay would be like... and we couldn't have shown up a better week. The water was clear and sparkling like the gem its known for, "the emerald coast." Windy mornings and evenings sandwiched perfect days - Mother nature was good to us.

Days 2 and 3... when Ava woke up, she gulped. She wasn't dreaming... she was still at the beach. A little too ambitious and sun burnt from the sun, the kids were forgiving.... and figured out how to split their time between the sand and water themselves. We brought a 9x9 canopy with us {instead of our umbrellas} - which was wonderful to catch naps under...

Aaron's Father's Day this year was very heartening and humbling... After I spoke to my Dad, Ava turned to Aaron and told him to call "his Dad." Ava remembers her Papa every day - knowing that he is no longer with us. But still, she emphasis, that he is, in some essence, still here, and very much alive in our hearts.

Having to let go of a father is a very deep and painful loss, that from an adults point of view - seems to only widen with time. We try to splash memories of him as much as we can... but still - all of our hearts ache for Papa. I so cherish how Ava remembers him daily - and how Noah will spontaneously point out memories, in the least expected moments.

I dedicate this next video to my father-in-law Ron and to my husband Aaron, who finds strength... every day... holding on to - our hearts.

After the first few days, the vacation days seem to blur together don't they? There was no schedule to follow - just our hearts. We got our traditional photo shoot out of the way on the second day. And we're so glad we did! We picked up an inflatable boat for Ava to jump the waves with... and even though it flipped over in the water and she fell in, she came running out yelling, "Mom, did you see me? I was swimming in the ocean!"

Noah on the other hand, stuck to playing in the sand for the next few days - burying himself chin deep and pretending to be a "merman" and then a dinosaur, stomping on all of Ava's castles...

When we ventured into town throughout the week, there was quite a bit of ice cream involved... along with some good eats and window shopping. We also chanced on a beautiful fireworks display at the Village of Baytowne Wharf {by far the closest we have ever been to}, an outdoor comedy show of children's fairytales, and some fun games {euro bungy, hamster balls, climbing wall} the kids were so excited to try, now that they are "taller" this year...

Days 4 and 5...
Having the children all to "ourselves" on vacation is quite a bit different than having them at home. Their personalities shine ten-fold... and their curiosity, questions, and energy... seem to be exponentially bigger... and for me personally, seeing this duo together, as brother and sister... was mesmerizing.

What amazes me the most about the beach is how "small" we feel. There is, and always will be, so much that we won't know. And it is in this - that I find so comforting.

The first day we arrived, Ava said, "this is the life!"

So true. But to me, so is the every day... whether we are just snuggling, tickling, racing, or reading books together... its the infinite amount of conversations spoken - and non - discovering more about ourselves... and what's yet to come.

Until then... we're taking it one step at a time, balancing on both feet, and carrying much love...

Thank you sweet Ava and Noah... for all the wonderful summer time memories we shared at the beach this week. And as amazing as it was... know that there are better days ahead of us... simply because we have each other.

writing thank you's and much more

2011-06-16T06:23:00.002-05:00

After the big event, writing thank you cards was on my agenda - but somehow that slipped away from me. Even though its almost been a month, I knew these had to get into the hands of friends and family - after all, we really are thankful. Especially Noah, who has been opening new gifts since then - every few days apart {this was an idea my sister gave me, and its worked like a charm.} Noah appreciates the individual toy so much rather than becoming overwhelmed with them all at once if opened at the same time. To him, it felt like everyday was his birthday {smiling}.

First came the easy part - concept. Using a fun font, I printed these out on sheets of white card stock and folded them in half to make the cards. I really wanted these to be 3 dimensional, but the tiny clothespins I bought to hang wallet versions of the photos didn't work quite so well. So I caved and made a collage using Snapfish.

Choosing photos proved more difficult then I thought. It actually took a few days to find the right ones because the more photos you added into the collage, the more different they began to look. And so it was a matter of going back to the original photos, cropping... selecting new ones... I wanted to capture all of the fun moments we had at the party - but if I did - I'd still be selecting photos right now...

I got my 3-d inside by recreating the bunting, like his birthday invitations. Using origami paper, I cut out the small triangles and taped them over the twine...

Since Noah can't write a "thank you" note by himself yet, to personalize the space, I asked him to draw a picture of himself - 12 times. And the little guy did, making each one so different...

Than I framed them over card stock squared with zig-zag scissors.

In between assembling and Noah drawing his pictures, I wrote the notes, then returned them to Noah for his signature. This process made me realize that Noah needed some extra help with holding a pencil - which I hadn't noticed before when he'd draw with markers or crayons. No matter how many times I demonstrated, or held his hand, he said it was "more comfortable" to hold the pencil crossing his index finger over it. In between my frustrations, Aaron came over to help, and demonstrated the tripod grip - although that proved even more challenging - he was also holding it incorrectly. {He uses his middle finger and thumb to grip}. Dumbfounded that all these years he was, we went back and forth troubleshooting with Noah - so we stopped writing for the day until I could go to Lakeshore Learning and pick up some pencil grippers. At the store, I learned that there actually is a gripper made specifically for kids who want to "cross over." The Crossover Grip - who knew?

The process was long and creatively challenging {and that was just for me}, still, I'm so glad we did these together. I'd like to think that the days of note writing is still very much alive, and that my kids will do these not just for etiquette, but also to brighten someone day's they love. Each card he signed, I told him who it was for, and he signed his name proudly, slowly learning how to hold a pencil and feel "more comfortable" with his new gripper. Thank goodness for those! And many thanks to Aaron for making all the pit stops needed to piece these tokens of our appreciation to everyone!

this moment

2011-06-10T07:20:00.000-05:00

homemade ice cream

2011-06-09T07:21:00.008-05:00

Summer is around the corner, and it's already in the high 90s here. Ava's first issue of Highlights Five came the other day, and we both were so excited. Me... because I use to read these when I was little, and for Ava, because she received her very first magazine. {Thanks Maggie!} Upon going through the activities, there were instructions on how to make homemade ice cream. So of course... we had to try it.

The kids mixed chocolate syrup into a cup of milk, and added it to a zippie bag, which was then placed in a larger bag filled with lots of ice and 6tbs of salt.

And then the shaking began. Instructions said to shake for 8-10 minutes.

The kids lasted for 4mins before they got too tired. So holding both bags over the sink, desperately praying for the timer to go off faster, I got my workout and the kids got....

chocolate ice cream!

Like the real thing isn't it? The kids approve!

dream big - inspirational read

2011-06-08T07:00:00.064-05:00

Earlier this year, a publicist contacted me and asked if I would be interested in reviewing a children's book written by Kristi Yamaguchi. To be honest, I thought it was spam, but I couldn't delete that email. It turned out to be true - Yamaguchi was releasing her first children's picture book this Spring. A few weeks later, the book arrived - and I can't even begin to tell you the irony for what this means to me personally, as well as how I hope this will help teach and instill in my kids to - always dream big...

That's what inspired this sign I put up in the kids' bathroom. To read this message every time they wash their hands, and when they brush their teeth morning and night - so that they would start and end their day knowing that there's still so much more... that the impossible is a figure of speech, and that anything that is imaginable, is as real as they are.

Visit our reading corner for a book review of Dream Big Little Pig, a wonderful new book that I've had the fortune to read with my children...

one last flight

2011-06-03T20:55:00.026-05:00

It's been a longtime since I've visited the Frontier Flight Museum with the kids. The last time the kids and I went was when we got our membership last summer, which got me to thinking, it was going to expire soon. So today seemed like the perfect day to take flight...

After whizzing through the "children's" section, I recalled how limiting the activities were for the younger set - unless you want to count watching episodes of JayJay over and over in a mini-theater or climb the air control center... but this trip was different, especially on the other side, where we found new exhibits and traveled to the moon 9 times...

and I had forgotten the awe of looking up, and seeing something take flight...

Or how mesmerizing touching the wings of airplanes or hiding behind could be...

And of course, fastening our seat belts is always fun to do - and pretending we're taking off to a far away city. I gave the weather report, and told the passengers what we were going to serve on today's flight...

Then the kids sat in the captains chair, and made note that the plane has caught on fire, and they proceeded towards the back of the plane and "jumped." {Why is this such an automatic event with kids?}

There are tiny models to examine...

And runways {or hallways rather} to race through...

At the end of afternoon, a volunteer stopped Noah and asked, "Do you like helicopters?" After Noah said yes, he slowly got up and went inside the plane model room and came back with two and demonstrated how to make them "fly."

A replica of a $1.50 toy from inside their souvenir shop {the kids were playing with and were turned down when they wanted to buy some...}, the kids lucked out - and they ended up having their very own home made version - made out of comic strip newspaper folded in thirds....

... gifted by the veteran pilot who stood by and watched the kids spin their new "toy" over and over. The kids offered their gratitude and walked out to the car - for one last look at how amazing planes and this museum really are...

a lesson in patience

2011-06-02T21:31:00.004-05:00

Noah has been a fan of the animated Disney/Pixar movie Cars for a few years now. It's a great movie - the music always has us up off the couch, and there's great lessons to draw from too - like having the right amount of confidence in one's self. This month, Cars 2 will be coming to theaters - and to promote the movie, they are on a multi-city tour. We happened to be one of them, so after Aaron got home from work, we trekked on over to the "Cars 2 - Agents on a Mission" event sponsored by State Farm at Northpark Mall.

I guess I should have anticipated the lines - but I didn't. I have never been one to wait in line for Hollywood-hype. But it wasn't about that for the kids. They didn't care much about the life-size remote controlled cars. It was the bounce house that gripped their hearts. I explained (judging from what I saw) that we would have to wait in line for a "looooooong time" before we could test it out (the line circled the parking lot). They both said yes - and wanted to wait. Aaron looked at me crazed, and I felt that way too - but I wanted the kids to learn a valuable lesson - that not everything they "want" comes easy. And if they "really wanted it," than they have the option to be patient for it. But we gave them an option B - to just take some pics from afar and then get out of the heat and go swimming....

They held their ground, and waited! I was really impressed with their patience, and the fact that they both stood for most of it. Staff walked around handing out tattoos and magnets...

Getting closer in line, and to Noah's nap time, I picked him up and danced while Radio Disney DJ'd some music for us. After 1.5 hours of waiting, I noticed that the bounce house was being deflated. So Aaron walked over to find out why. Aaron, being the great Dad that he is - wouldn't stand for this, and wanted to at least express to the manager in charge what a disappointment their event is to all those who have been patiently waiting in this heat to simply bounce and have fun. He also wanted the manager to know that his staff misguided all the families by telling them that "as long as you're in line by 7, you can still get in and participate in all of the activities." The manager simply apologized and did nothing else. No other families complained or moved out of line - they just stood there and watched us - oof!

All Noah and Ava wanted to do was to bounce - but in the end, all we achieved this evening was disappointment. Because even though they did exactly what they were told {and very patiently in this heat might I add} - not everything goes as planned. Noah and Ava didn't whine or cry when we explained what happened. They simply accepted it and listened to what their remaining options were: continue waiting and just get their pictures taken with McQueen and Mater, or go home and swim...

At 7:10, with still more than 50 people in front of us, they both chose option B this time. And I couldn't be more proud of them both for not wasting another second of their childhood fun and choosing instead what was in their best interest - all by themselves.

noah turns 4 - vintage carnival to celebrate

2011-05-23T19:00:00.007-05:00

The 2nd biggest party of the year, for us, was Noah turning 4 on Saturday. I was inspired by so many creative party ideas posted online - with over-the-top tables, backdrops and favors... the ideas are quite literally endless! Trying to squeeze in some creative planning and brainstorming between "it" all, may not have resulted in the picture-perfect tablescapes like I had imagined in my mind - but, the party was - and in every essence.

There's something more nostalgic and special to me when things are homemade, re-purposed, and brought to life with the helping hands of family and friends whose every intention is to make it special for the birthday boy and the little people in our lives. It reminds me so much of my childhood - where parties were homegrown, there was always something "else" happening in the background, and everything simply went with the family flow...

Here's a snapshot of what we all pulled together for a vintage carnival party honoring our Noah, who turned the big 4!

---------------

A banner sign that matched the party invitations, welcomed guests at the door...

Mom arrived early to help us set up our "olde time carnival" lunch, and before guests arrived, more than 100 balloons hit the ceiling throughout the house...

The food table:

My sweet flea-market find a few weeks ago of an old carousel made it to the center of the table - holding the condiments for the hot dogs. Other menu items included curly fries, nachos with queso, meatballs skewered with cherry tomatoes, chicken pesto wraps and fruit and watermelon trays.

The chicken pesto wraps {Barefoot Contessa recipe} is one of my favorites. These delicious wraps were held together with cute toothpicks donning sparkly fuzz balls. A last minute thought on how to decorate the food table came to me when I saw the underside of the cupcake liners, which read beautifully for the occasion:

Plastic baskets lined with paper, plates, queso {which had to be kept warm}, stood by on the side table - including a handful of clown noses!

On the other side of the food table, we made a self-serve drink station and served ice tea and lemonade. Mason jars {big and small} with daisy cut lids was my personal way of tipping off my hat to "olde time" - including red and white striped paper straws. {I love how they are biodegradable!}

The front yard hosted our carnival midway, which kicked off the party at noon. Here a bounce house with balls and bubbles entertained the kids, as well as games {basketball, ring toss, can toss...} earned the kids tickets to later redeem for prizes {Ava and Noah's favorite part}.

Spin-a-Prize - we made number "4" the winning number for 10 tickets...

Prizes were fun to gather. Remember ice-cream shooters? We also had slinkys, mini-beach balls, pin wheels, erasers and small toys.

After an hour, we filled up on carnival fare...

followed by a midway of confectionery treats...

Aaron made pink cotton candy while Aunt Roshana made sno cones for all the kids...

After food, games and treats, we sat down to take in a show! A "last-minute" idea {because I'm notorious for procrastinating}, Cindie, the Event Manager of DFW Kids Parties and Events, helped pull some strings and coordinate the perfect entertainer for our event, which made it extra special...

"Topper", the comedic-magician, had Noah and the kids brimming with excitement, attention and laughter. The kids gravitated closer and closer to him - wanting to participate in everything he pulled out of his suitcase and bags of tricks. He did an amazing job with this young {and older} group!

Some of the kids put on clown noses to pose... even Zoe our dog made it into the group picture!

After the show, we got ready to help the birthday boy blow out his candles... Mom made a home-made double layer vanilla and chocolate cake with butter cream frosting. Between cars and trains - Noah's 2 favorite things, I found a vintage animal train on Etsy - for the cake topper. The flag bunting {I literally sewed together that morning} was like the cake was having a party of its own - I couldn't have been more pleased with how it all turned out! Aaron also baked a dozen rainbow cupcakes for the kids... which we served with strawberry milk!

And then the most magical moment {at least for me} came, when we sang "Happy Birthday" to Noah, who fixed his eyes on me, too shy to look up - and at that moment, I exploded with so much joy - feeling so thankful and blessed with the gift of his life...

After wards, we headed outdoors again. Even though I flooded the day with lots of sweets, I couldn't break the birthday tradition of opening a pinata!

Children left with their goody-bags of prizes and candy, and a "thank you prize"... of a fish in a bag! Reminiscent to winning a goldfish at the carnival - these were actually bags of vegan extra clear glycerin soap with vinyl fishes inside made to look like they're swimming!

Carnival tins I had collected over the years, held more than 75 cake pops, candied in our vintage carnival colors, for our friends and family to take home and enjoy {red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting!} This was the first time I had ever made these sweet phenomenons {and perhaps the night before the party wasn't a good idea since it took 5 hours and 30 trials} but my sweet tooth {and party guests} would perhaps confess... they were worth it!

We had a lot of fun creating an "Olde Time Carnival" at home. What made it extra memorable for Aaron and I, was how involved Ava and Noah were throughout the planning process. From driving around town looking for red and white twine, to store-hopping, assembling invitations and even dipping cake pops at 1am, they each contributed in their own special way, making this very much a "carni" family celebration... where laughter, hard work and insanity... are inseparable.

birthday party ideas

2011-05-17T02:00:00.000-05:00

Noah's 4th birthday is coming up, and I've had "party" on the brain for quite a while. I've been inspired by so many wonderful birthday party ideas online - I thought I'd share some of them with you....

I wish A & N loved the animated movie Up as much as I did... otherwise, I would have loved to throw a party like Wendy Updegraff did for her daugher. Wendy is also an amazing professional photographer... {photos by Wendy Updegraff}

Did you see this cake? The table of sweets is all eye-candy...

And checkout the favor table... So clean and simple - capturing exactly what the movie is about. I love the house anchoring all the balloons {like the movie}... the globe, travel postcards streamed together above an old suitcase... and a banner that echoes the theme "adventure awaits!"

speaking of suitcase, the travel journals/favors are amazing - lots of thought went into this... each child got a travel journal to write in with themes and graphics from the movie.

oh I wish I had an Ellie pin!

More amazing pics and details on Wendy's blog. {Thanks Wendy for letting me share your photos here on the AoF!}

Off-site parties - oh my, why not rent out a historic airplane! I so love the *vintage* theme behind everything this Mom did for her son's 4th birthday party... Especially the suitcase favors and invitations. I also love the clever games she associated with the theme... {party details on Hostessblog.com /photos by Bryan Mikota}

You'll have to check out the complete party details to get the entire scoop. For each flight challenge the kids completed, they received an aviation-themed souvenir - love the felt hats she made!

And wouldn't this be the perfect weather right now to do a camping theme? That's what mom and event planner Desiree from Desiree Spinner Events hosted for her son's 6th birthday...

She spray painted picnic tables with chalkboard paint to give the kids something fun to do as they arrived to "Camp Luke."

The goodie bag is absolutely charming... yummy LL Bean green backpack with camping gear!

And an entertainer that is an expert in this field entertained the kids while the family enjoyed themselves too - sitting back and watching the kids enjoy themselves is always a real treat!

P.S... I'm loving her house too... {sighing... this is why I dream of big grassy backyards...}

More photos on Desiree's blog, and details posted here. {Thanks Desiree for sharing your photos with the AoF!}

Now.... onto some party planning of my own... eek, it's coming up this Saturday!

chance to win a $250 Camp Sweepstakes

2011-05-13T02:02:00.005-05:00

Attention parents! Remember the summer day camp post I did about summer camps, and how quickly they fill up? If camp isn't in the budget this year, then try winning some!

Savvy Source is offering a $250 Camp Sweepstakes to five different families. Entering is simple - all you have to do is share, tweet, or facebook this link with your friends and every time they visit Savvy Source, you get an entry for a chance to win $250 towards a camp of your choice! Visit the sweepstakes page to learn more and get the full scoop!

vintage carnival invitations

2011-05-05T02:10:00.005-05:00

We finally decided on a theme for Noah's 4th Birthday - thanks to some cute vintage stuff I found at the craft store a few weeks ago. Plus, so much of it can be hand made, from games to decorations - and right now, I heart everything vintage...

I created these in PhotoShop using fun "carnival" style fonts - and colors red, gray and blue. My procrastination in getting the invites done were thanks to my fruitless attempts of finding red and white baker's twine at my local craft stores {who knew?} Etsy vendors carry a slew of these in small quantities and colors, but I didn't want to pay for shipping. More empty handed shopping trips followed, so I buckled down and ordered a giant spool online from We Sell Coffee - 3,400 yards to be exact {seems like the best value with shipping}. It finally arrived today, so we got to work... {I mean, this was our art project for the day}...

After I trimmed the edges with scalloped scissors, Noah pasted glue on the invite and adhered it to red card stock {8.5 x 11 cut in half}. Then he placed tiny colorful fasteners to the top.

Ava was in charge of cutting strands of string to lace around the fasteners...

I cut out triangle-shaped pieces out of origami paper {already had in the kids' art supplies}. Ava coordinated groups of 4 "flags" to go onto each card as the bunting... which I stuck on over the twine using double-sided foam tape...

This is how they turned out... in the grand scheme of things, I probably could have used any kind of string to create this effect, but for some reason, I had my mind fixed that it had to be red and white... oh well. So they are 2 weeks behind delivery...

Now, what to do with the rest of the 3,398 yards of twine?...

summer camps and classes

2011-04-26T19:56:00.002-05:00

SavvySource, an online source by parents - for parents, is always one step ahead, and is now featuring a full online source to help parents locate a summer camp or class near you! Summer? Already? Just getting use to Spring? Oh yes. Spring is when we plan for summer... And finding a summer camp during the summer months isn't as easy as just dropping in. Registration is required - and they fill up early. And if you have two in tow like I do, you'll want to make sure there's room for them both {plus most offer a sibling discount}. You can research what's available in your city by visiting Savvy's Camp Classes right here.

Attending a summer day camp is an exciting venture for us. Even though most families think of this as a break between the school year, for us, {since we haven't technically started school} its a chance to try out an entirely new adventures that isn't offered any other time of the year.

One of the places we love to try each year are the Little Explorer classes offered by the Nature and Science Museum. Here's Noah learning about volcanoes - needless to say, this one was a hit! More about this class and projects here.

From museums to ranches - this is when we can join in with other kids and take advantage of facilities that may otherwise be filled with day-to-day members or visitors. I had a lot of fun researching summer day camps in Dallas - and I'm thrilled to say, there's lots to choose from. I see a summer day camp as an investment and experiment - to try something new and see how the kids respond.

Who knows... maybe Ava has a natural knack for horseback riding, or Noah baking baklavas {oh I wish!}, or just good 'ol fashioned swimming lessons... {hard to choose right?} But that's why its all listed right there for you on SavvySource.

If you already pre-registered, or are returning to a camp your kids love, please share!

laundry re-do

2011-04-22T01:04:00.000-05:00

Did I ever share with you our laundry room makeover? It's still a work in progress, but here is a quick snapshot of where it is now:

For before/after photos of converting what use to be a closet, jump over to the Art of Family Home.

2011-04-22T00:56:00.001-05:00

Spring is in the air, and we're having picnics... well, indoor ones. And learning kinds. The Learn the Alphabet Picnic Basket we picked up from Lakeshore Learning last year proves to still be A and N's go-to game for fun. For Ava - this game is just as fun (if not more) than having a tea party. Perhaps because of all the cute miniature pieces it comes with...

Whatever the reason - I simply love how learning is byproduct. The focus is on having fun, who can match the fastest, and yes... there even is some dramatic play.

"Ewww.... I don't like o is for olive..."

"Oh no. This ant is going to eat my little a"....

This is also a great beginner sound game. The kids can identify the objects - but they sound out what letter it could be. "Ketchup" - is that C or K? Noah hides the k is for ketchup, that Ava needs for her h is for hamburger....

Ava places the r is for rose into the v is for vase and props it in the middle of the table and declares - "This is for you Mommy. Now our picnic is ready! I'm playing on my Xylophone so you can listen to music at our picnic...."

....ahhh, love it!

yea! the kids are old enough to...

2011-04-21T09:54:00.002-05:00

wash our cars!

Inspired by Max & Ruby (I think), Ava asked if she could wash my car today. How could I refuse? One bucket of soapy water, and the kids took care of the exterior while I vacuumed and wiped down the interior {still don't know how the car gets so dirty so quickly}... I was so tickled by this gesture, I treated the kids out to lunch... even though it was drizzling. The kids thought the rain would catch the suds they left behind... {hee-hee}.

We haven't devised an allowance system yet on which chores they should get "paid" for... because honestly, I believe kids should help out at home as much as possible {within safe and practical limits}. A & N didn't ask to be compensated for washing my car - they thought it was something "fun" to do today. Still, washing a car should probably go on the "paid chore" category...

What do you think? Which chores do your kids enjoy doing? What kind of "jobs" do your kids get to do at home to earn money?

homegrown tomatoes

2011-04-13T18:05:00.010-05:00

Everyday, Ava has been checking on her tomato plant. Anyone who comes over, she immediately wants to take out back to share how much her tomatoes are "growing." Occasionally we've been finding holes around it - dug up in neat burrows {still unsure what kind of critter is responsible...hmm....} But the tomatoes are still safe, and gardening has become one of Ava's favorite things to do. Today, they were riper than ripe... well one of them...

And after removing her first, she found another red-ripey one ready to be picked...

Sliced, zested with lemon, and sprinkled with salt - they were ready to eat... and appreciate how patience and nature takes care of each other... And our palettes!

Not being a big vegetable-eater nor great gardener myself, I'm so happy that our next generation is and will be...

why having a good {and patient} dental hygienist helps

2011-04-10T19:33:00.005-05:00

lesson plan - spring, windy, rainy day

2011-04-04T09:41:00.007-05:00

Sunday nights, I try to hide in the children's art room and draft a lesson plan for the week. We were anticipating rain, so I found a few craft projects the kids could do. But first, I had to make our Spring tree {made with just large sheets of brown construction paper}. I also cut out green leaves and placed these in a small tray - each time the kids complete an activity, we can write on the leaf what they learned about "Spring" and add it to our tree {my hope is that it'll "bloom" before summer!}

Index cards with weather pictures are taped to the mirror on the side so that the kids can observe and talk about the weather... Today, it was...

Rain is in the forecast, so we started an umbrella art project.

For the full scoop on how to do this sticky umbrella art project and what they look like finished, see our Creative Crafting Corner.

Onto the rest of our lesson plan... I read Charlotte's Web and The Very Busy Spider and made spiders of our own with colorful pipe cleaners and googly-eyes...

The kids practiced their worksheets found in their baskets {I cut theme-related sheets out from their preschool workbooks} focusing on the colors red and orange, and cutting and pasting the shapes rectangles and squares. I really like how organized the day was. Not everything had to be written down in the lesson plan book either {that would have drove me insane}. Instead, we let the day open itself up for learning opportunities around us. Like when we were in the backyard, Noah went through a web and he felt a "string" stick to his arm... or when he played with his ambulance and police cars - and he noticed the "rectangle" shapes... oh yes, learning is everywhere...

How do you organize your learning day? Do you start out with a theme? The weather?

star wars makes a come back

2011-04-01T11:40:00.003-05:00

Up in the attic, I came across Aaron's "bag" from childhood. A small maroon bag holding years of war, triumph, and probably some brother rivalry. In this bag was Aaron's collection of Star Wars figures - and its been sitting in our attic for far too long. Since Aaron had already introduced these characters to the kids during their bedtime stories - I thought it was time for them to see the characters themselves. Albeit its nice how they used their imaginations. But to me, this was one less thing to collect dust. Aaron refused. Until today...

Aaron took a deep breath, and made an introductory speech...

They didn't know what to make of some of the creatures. It probably didn't mirror what they had imagined. They looked on with interest. Noah picked up Luke and admired his sword.... I on the other hand wasn't too impressed with some of the not-so-cute figurines and weapons. So while the kids weren't looking, I started to sort through the crowd and placed some back in the bag.... these were our favorites...

As for the rest, well - it was time to play! In her tutu, Ava gathered two Princess Leias, and the three of them went right into action...

It made Aaron surprisingly happy to see years and years of his joy playing {as boys did back then} in the hands of his daughter and son... who pretended the Ewoks were ordering pizza from Jabba the Hutt... simply priceless!

sharing stories while rummaging through old clothes

2011-03-30T11:20:00.001-05:00

What started out as Spring cleaning over the spring break week - you know, hang up bright Spring colors to liven up the place from winter.... has actually turned into a colossal cleaning - so much so that we've actually looked at the possibility of moving! Have we really outgrown our space? It's hard to believe that's the case. And I don't think it is. What is however, is letting go.

In consigning some of the children's Spring clothing from last year, Ava stumbled upon some of her favorite dresses. She grabbed onto these tightly and made a pretending "wailing" noise.

Then Noah clued in and pulled one out right from under her and ran, teasing her, "Ava... look what I've got?"...

Ava was so funny about it. She turned and ran right after him. As soon as she got one dress, Noah picked up another favorite. What was a huge draining experience, cleaning, hanging, ticketing, and pinning the clothes for the consignment sale, actually turned into a little bit of whimsical fun. The kids chased each other round the dinner table, hid among piles of clothes, and in between breaks, asked, "Mom. Did I wear this when I was a baby?"

And so the stories were shared. Needless to stay, another storage bin has been filled with items the kids (and I) couldn't part with. In fact, I ended up consigning Ava's first birthday dress and regretted it. I went to the sale and lucky me, it was still there! When Ava asked me about the dress, I told her I was saving it for.

Ava said, "that's so nice of you to save it for my daughter."

{sighing}....

lambs... and lions... oh my!

2011-03-29T09:58:00.000-05:00

An easy lamb/lion double-mask the kids will flip over. Plus it took less than 10 minutes. Details and photos on Creative Crafting.

anniversary weekend

2011-03-28T09:57:00.002-05:00

In deciding what and how to spend our anniversary weekend, we went through a gamut of ideas - from soaking somewhere on an exotic beach far away, to a last minute weekend deal to another city out of state. But when it came down to the last hour to decide, we felt there was just enough time to celebrate just being us, here at home. Although Aaron started his new job, he was able to take Friday off, so that we could head out to the Dallas Arboretum for a picnic lunch. Little did we know that the entire city had the same idea - it was packed! And in typical Texas fashion - it turned out to be a very hot day! Still, we were mesmerized by the abundance of color, welcoming Spring.

Right now, the arboretum is hosting a special fairytale castles display - fitting so perfectly with the celebrated theme of the weekend {smiling}. The Beauty and the Beast castle was our favorite...

Because they could do this...

After lunch, the kids set out to look for butterflies...

Got some!

And we can't ever leave the arboretum without cooling off by the frogs.

And running barefoot through the grass...

After the picnic, we dropped the kids off with Grandma, and Aaron and I "escaped" for some pampering and dinner, and then a quick road trip to East Texas' Gladewater and then down south to Roundtop {population 90} for antique shopping. I know what you're thinking - population 90? But actually, this is antique week, where more than 100,000 travelers come here to sell, shop, and well, wear their cowboy boots and have a good 'ol time. I wish I took photos of this - but alas, Aaron and I had too much fun rummaging through history, talking to people, and sipping margaritas under the warm sun.

Thanks everyone for all the love and sweet sentiments from last week's anniversary post! We are touched by each and everyone of you!!

a love story

2011-03-25T06:36:00.001-05:00

When I was a little girl, I was into ant farms, chasing ice cream trucks, and collecting stickers. It wasn't until college before I started dreaming about prince charming {sparked mostly when I'd procrastinate studying at the library}. And because life seems to swivel faster with each year, I decided {and secretly hoped} that fate would bring him to me. Maybe I'd rear-end him with my car, and fall instantly in love... or we'd bump shopping carts in the grocery store.. {you get the idea}. For someone who is always chasing time, I was certain that the love-at-first-sight scenario was the most efficient approach to this entire matter. I really believed in this. I had to, there were so many other important things to do... like graduating.

I transferred to a state school, where among 35 thousand, I felt small, bright-eyed, and comfortable. I was walking slowly across campus one day, with my nose stuck in my history book, when out of nowhere someone in a black shirt appears right in front of me. I stop, annoyed for a sec and about to say, "excuse me," when suddenly I feel a gust of butterflies in my stomach. My knees felt weak when I realized, he wasn't a stranger at all. He was the humble, charmingly witty {to an eleven yr old}, dirty-blonde haired boy from my 6th grade Science class, standing tall, dark and handsome right before me. I thought the butterflies were because I had found an old friend. But a few weeks later, on March 25th, 1998, we went out on our first date. We both went home that night, and knew. Our fairytale was just beginning...

Three years later, on this day, Aaron and I tied the knot before God and our loved ones.

Little did we know about the amount of work that goes into a marriage... preparing and planning for the future together - All we knew on this day was that this is the hand we will be holding, long past we are old and gray - rocking on the front porch, waiting for the great grand-kids to come over. And that image still gives me butterflies.

The image in my head - not this one {Aaron PhotoShopped us into this pic back in '04}. It makes me laugh.

We've been saying it all week - "I can't believe its been 10 years... really?" No! The laugh lines on our face confirm this to be true. I went through some of our old pictures today {spring cleaning still..} and there were so many journeys from this past decade - globe trotting to more than 50 cities, two home renovations, and our own new lives as parents to two amazing children.

I am so blessed to be walking this earth with you Aaron, holding my hand. Happy 10th Anniversary...

... you still give me butterflies....

nowrouz 2011 celebrated

2011-03-21T00:15:00.001-05:00

Happy Nowrouz! This past Sunday, we celebrated Nowrouz, which literally translates to "New Light" - and is a Persian holiday commemorating the first day of Spring/birth of new life/and New Year! I personally enjoy recognizing "New Year" on this day instead of the cold of January - because it really does feel like a new beginning today. I've started "spring cleaning" around the house {still a work in progress} which is also a customary thing to do in preparation - as well as giving each other gifts, buying new clothes, and visiting relatives and friends.

Traditionally, I remember from my childhood sitting up late at night and peeling dried fruits for the Haft Mēwa or "Seven Fruits" dish we would make with pistachios, almonds, walnuts, raisins, and so on. But since my nephew is allergic to nuts, we skipped this and instead jumped into more child/spring friendly activities associated with this time of year... yep, an egg hunt, coloring, and confetti bash...

For their gift baskets this year, I went with an earthy/Spring theme, and found some garden gloves, shovels, rakes, and books about earth day... Fancy Nancy Every Day is Earth Day for Ava and Noah got a younger version called I'm Not Too Little To Help The Earth, with moving tabs and sensory pages.

When we got home, we took advantage of what was left of the daylight, and started planting our new "garden." The kids picked out plants from the nursery {tomatoes, strawberries, lemons} and Aaron and I added green onion seeds {these grow great in this climate} and cilantro {a salad staple}.

As they sowed their seeds into the dirt, we talked about the delicate process and patience it takes to bring them to life. Just as the New Year - today - marks a new beginning, so too does the deepening understanding that no matter where we are in our lives, we should take great care with what we are given - be responsible and respectful of ourselves, our environments, and most graciously, of time...

st. paddy's day treasure hunt

2011-03-17T20:54:00.003-05:00

Lucky for me, the kids slept in on Thursday. I wanted to do some of the activities I had suggested in my SavvySource article yesterday, so I spent some time searching for a scavenger hunt idea and came across this DIY St. Patty's Day treasure hunt post. Lucky for me (again) there were downloadable files pre-written with fun limerick clues. And well, one thing led to another - where I ended up in the art room, watching a how-to-video on YT on making four-leaf clovers, cutting and whip stitching "pot of gold" goody bags out of felt using the one-minute craft blog idea {which actually took closer to an hour} because you know me, I had to improvise... and well, I think the kids had fun...

First clue... in a shoe...

2nd clue... where you keep your hands warm...

3rd clue... under a plate...

Ava and Noah loved the treasure hunt - it's such a thrilling momentum for them. We'll be doing another one this weekend for our New Year holiday on Sunday {can't wait!} Noah ended up wearing his pot of gold around his neck {since he had to eat breakfast first}. After some clean up, we went into the backyard and what's this?

Could it really be shamrocks peeking through from the cracks? {Why is it that I never noticed these before today?} Needless to say, we're now hunting for four-leaf clovers...

eating sweet rainbows

2011-03-16T20:28:00.003-05:00

It's been a fantastic week so far - Aaron started a new job this week, and I've trimmed the WAHM office hours.... freeing up more time to do - well, more of this...

Where the little leprechauns and I made rainbows of our own - in cupcakes! To help celebrate St. Patrick's Day tomorrow...

The process took about an hour, was messy, and felt like an experiment as they learned to mix colors to make new ones. I would highly recommend making these sweet rainbows for St. Patrick's Day - or any day - when you want to spread some rainbows...

After mixing the white cake-mix, we split the batter into 6 small bowls. {Approx a little less than 1 cp each}. Then using red dye, we added a few drops into the first bowl...

Noah skipped over to green...

We mixed until we got the right shade of each. Surprisingly, it took a lot of dye for each.

And there you have it... Ava knew how to make the orange and purple batter - and they all turned out... well, like the rainbow!

Here is the tricky {and messy} part - adding spoonfuls to the cupcake holders.

I did the first one {bottom right corner} and quickly realized I didn't have any room to add the purple. So less than a tablespoon each worked.

The kids agreed - because that meant a little bit of rainbow batter would be left for them...

25 minutes later, our rainbow cupcakes popped out of the oven.

And were topped with vanilla icing and colorful confetti - yum!

For more St. Paddy's day ideas - visit me at SavvySource!

The Lion King: A Retelling of Hamlet

2011-03-15T18:09:00.001-05:00

I'm at SavvySource today - talking about Disney's The Lion King - a retelling of Hamlet.

my best friend's wedding

2011-03-10T13:55:00.001-06:00

Karen and I have known each other since the age of 2. Both of our families immigrated to the US in 1979, and we became instant friends. Best friends. My childhood was spent every day with Karen, and we have shared many wonderful memories - memories of how I think childhood should be... climbing trees, swinging off of branches, making mud pies, dancing in rain storms, collecting lady bugs... and so on. We did everything together... But we also couldn't be more different - and that's what I love so much about who we are... and who we have grown up to be. After kindergarten, Karen and her family moved back to Brazil for a few years, then came back and settled in FL. We moved too, but we've stayed in touch through letters, phone calls, and visits over the course of 32 years and counting...

This past weekend, she got married. And it was a very special celebration - after all, she is half Brazilian and half Argentinean! This is a photo of her and her Dad Hector - which completely summarizes their relationship - laughter. I can't think of any other father/daughter relationship that is this strong in their adult years. Hector by trade, is a gem craftsman, designing luxurious jewelry. But the greatest and most priceless jewel he has ever helped create - is his daughter, and I know he couldn't be any prouder of this moment.

Beatriz is like a mother to me. She can find humor in everything she does, and has a heart of gold. Both her parents love Gabriel like the son they never had. He's a charmer, hard worker, and so in love with my best friend, and so I have come to love him too. I wish I had more pictures, but I was in the wedding and soaked up every second I could. I can't say that I have ever seen a wedding like hers... capturing the spirit of exactly who Karen is - intimate, loving, and oh... so very funny!

I was fortunate to have my Mom with me - we made a "girls" weekend out of it - because Beatriz and my Mom were best friends too. Having Mom alone to myself was such a valuable and memorable gift. It's so rare to be able to let go of home life, kids, husband, and do things like this. But this weekend made me realize - I need to do more of them! True, I missed my love bugs very much. But I also know that I miss my Mom {even though we see each other every week} - there's something special about "getting away" together and just being ourselves.

We hit some sights in Miami, Bayside, Hollywood... souvenir shopping for our love bugs back home and wrapped up a perfectly fantastic mother/daughter weekend {no arguments either!} I simply love our growing bond, understanding of each other, and expectations. Still, she'll tell me what she thinks - and I'll do the same - and I guess in our perfect world - that makes perfect sense.

Mom - you are the best a daughter could ever ask for - I love you!

Congratulations Karen & Gabriel - I can't wait to see the video and pictures and share with everyone here. xoxo

dinosaur dioramas

2011-03-10T13:14:00.000-06:00

Making diorama's is by far one of my favorite art projects to do with the kids. There's something about its smallness that makes me want to crawl inside. I can still remember the the very first time I saw a diorama put together - Dad worked on it for a school project for my sister. And I was mesmerized by the detail of the cutting, gluing, and layering. He made a library. And oh... I wish we still had it. The kids put together a dinosaur diorama - jump over to our craft page to see the process.

this moment

2011-03-04T09:30:00.000-06:00

{inspired by Soulemama} A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you're inspired to do the same, leave a link to your 'moment' in the comments for all to find and see.

happy birthday dr. seuss

2011-03-02T03:50:00.000-06:00

Our local Lakeshore Learning store hosts weekly free crafts - and so this past Saturday, there were craft tables throughout the store - celebrating Theodor Seuss Geisel's (a.k.a. Dr. Seuss) birthday... which is today!

Posted on Creative Crafting... and our favorite Dr. Seuss book in our reading corner.

family journalism: for week of feb 28

2011-02-28T16:49:00.140-06:00

*For this week's Family Journalism, I thought I would focus on the rising protests happening around the world.*

A review of local, national and global current events that can be shared and discussed among families with young children.

People & Places:

Libyans, Egyptians, Tunisians and Wisconsinites? (oh my) are protesting for a score of reasons. As the world watches - what are we to learn from what's happening? And why?
Source: NPR, Reuters, Politico, ABC News

This is one of my favorite pictures of my Dad, peacefully protesting in the streets of Manhattan in 1980 - against Russia's invasion of Afghanistan - a relevant piece of history in our lives because it resulted in life changing experiences for millions of Afghans displaced by the war - including us. Those who sought refuge abroad continued to help fight back by raising public awareness as to what was happening on the other side of the world.

I've personally never rallied at a protest - for fear of getting squashed. Kidding aside, the opportunity hasn't presented itself, but instead I have had the chance to voice my opinion through other vehicles - like signing petitions or fundraising for good causes - and most effectively, simply sharing my knowledge with those willing to listen.

The kind of protesting happening around the world today has me somewhat dumbfounded. I'm having a hard time keeping track of the anger, the injustices, and the caliber of its widespread growth. Still - it's something that may be positively taught to our children -

There have been many times where I have felt myself demand, as a dictator would, that the kids listen to what to me, seems obvious and right. But they will protest with both arms crossed and sing an encore of reasons, or stand defiantly in silence, followed by tears heavy with anger. Ultimately, we are both passionate about what we believe in - and although at times we label this kind of behaviour as "testing their boundaries" - I also think its the beginning of defining their core value systems - which to me is more important than being right as a parent.

After all, it was the late Ghandi that said, "A 'No" uttered from the deepest conviction is better than a 'Yes' merely uttered to please, or worse, to avoid trouble."

Table Talk: What does protesting mean? Give examples of when and why people demonstrate for what they believe.

If eating their veggies is the hot topic at the dinner table right now - like pouting or pressing their heads against their plates - they are in fact, "protesting" against the green stuff. Talk about whether this is an affective or ineffective approach - from their perspectives, and come up with examples together of how each you can better communicate your feelings about veggies, and then after wards, work towards a plan that both parties are happy with (like numbing the taste of broccoli with ketchup?).
Educational: Chances are, there is a relative or friend of the family that is either currently residing in a country/state where the protests are happening or has actually been involved in or witnessed a protest or two in their past. Help the kids conduct a formal "interview" - and ask questions that will help them imagine what it is was like to protest with hundreds? thousands? and what people did and said around them... the outcome of the protest and its impact (if any).

For more ideas on teaching about this topic: WaukeshaPatch - Mom's Talk, Positive Protesting with Children

mini art studio - painting with arcylics

2011-02-22T20:06:00.000-06:00

We're at Creative Crafting today...

family journalism: for week of feb 21

2011-02-22T08:53:00.002-06:00

A review of local, national and global current events that can be shared and discussed among families with young children.

People & Places:

Earthquake Strikes New Zealand
A state of emergency has been declared after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch on New Zealand's South Island on Monday - causing fatalities and wide spread destruction. The earthquake was an aftershock of the Sept 3, 2010 earthquake. Source: BBC World News and USGS

Table Talk: How do earthquakes happen and why? How do we measure earthquakes?
Educational: Build a tower with the kids on top of a plastic tray or cardboard. Slightly tap or shake the tray. How many taps did it take before it collapsed the entire tower?
Resources: How earthquakes happen, Earthquakes for Kids, Weather Wiz Kids

President's Day - National Federal Holiday Celebrated
In 1968 Congress passed legislation requiring that federal holidays fall on Mondays. In 1971 President Nixon combined Lincoln's and Washington's birthdays into one -- the third Monday of the month. Over time Presidents' Day evolved into a day to commemorate all U.S. presidents. Source: eHow.com

Table Talk: Who is our President and what is his job? Where does the President live? Review pictures and bios of the 44 Presidents online. Talk about historical Presidents that stand out in your own mind and share stories - even though some may sound like fairy tales.
Educational: Grab your loose change and examine the pictures on the coins. Ask the children, "If you were President, what would you do for the people?" Take notes and place in their journal. If your children are into writing letters, write one to the President!
Resources: White House 101, American History, Craft Ideas

Economics:

Speaking of Presidents - did you know that since 2007, the United States Mint releases four $1 Presidential coins featuring our Presidents in the order they served in office? This past week, millions of the Andrew Johnson $1 Presidential coin was released into circulation. Following will be Presidents Grant, Hayes, and Garfield in 2011. Source: United States Mint

Table Talk: The word "dollar" comes from the German word "thaler," which was a large silver German coin, and was one of the first silver coins made in the United States, back in 1794. Share fun facts.
Educational: Take a look with your child's piggy bank. How many of their quarters are different? What kinds of metals are they made from? Where and how are our coins made? Take an online tour. Money isn't the only way in which we honor past Presidents. Can you think of other ways?
Resources: HIP Pocket Change, United States Mint Lesson Plans

valentines week

2011-02-18T20:50:00.004-06:00

In thinking about Valentine's and how this one holiday is really an everyday - I started to think about how we could make the 14th extra special for all of us. But as life unfolds itself - and we got busy with this and that, I couldn't come up with the "party" I had told Ava we would be having {after all, she bought a dress just for the occasion}. So we all went with the flow of everyday.... and as it turned out, everyday was extra special, with highs and lows and everything in between...

The first change came with the weather. Wrapped in the low 30s last week, the weekend brought us high 60s and clear sunny skies... And it is usually on the weekends when we slow down a bit and get together with Ron and Maggie. Last weekend was no exception - and we took some of the paper flowers Ava made to Papa.

There is something very somber and vast about visiting cemeteries. When you're here, and you close your eyes, that hole in your heart stretches uncontrollably. Emotions soar to the moon, and return back to us with a generous amount of faith. Faith to look past our sadness, embrace our loved ones next to us, and look ahead to life growing right in front of us.

Back at the house, we all shared a Valentine cake Maggie brought over - the first hint of what was to come for Valentine's...

But then, Aaron fell sick Sunday night, and I had to attend a client meeting on Monday... and so after this and that - I came home with a few surprises... of course, Ava was wearing her new dress...

We usually exchange cards on the 14th, and I decided to make one for Ava and Noah - nothing fancy, I just drew a picture and added a heart balloon made out of wire. Aside from the globs of glue, I think they turned out as lovely as the ones we got from Papyrus - don't you think?

And since I had promised them that morning to take them to Froggies {a novelty toy store in our neighborhood}, we did - and after the kids finished testing out all their opened toys, they both wanted to "buy" something. Ava picked a pack of gum, and Noah... well, he couldn't choose between a police car or a school bus. Then after giving it some thought, he hugged my legs and said, "That's ok Mommy. You already bought me a car."

{I'm so proud!}

On Tuesday, we received Valentine cards in the mail from the little cousins. Oh yeah... cards! So we set out to make some too... Thanks to Design Mom and her creative template, I printed these out, and found some animals that echoed our sentiments... and then packaged them up with heart envelopes the kids made.

On Wednesday, we had the opportunity to attend Grandma Agnes' Sweetheart Ball... I should have better prepared the children for the visit by explaining what an Assisted Living facility is like - but it didn't dawn on me until the kids got there and they hid underneath our arms. Ava was bursting to try twirling her new dress with the loud music, and so after some time with the family and some snacks - she leaped forward and joined the crowd... bringing smiles to everyone.

Especially a new friend {lady in blue} - who came by and thanked Ava for the "dance."

After wards, we headed to tuck Grandma in for the night - but not before the kids were given some chocolates! Which was the sweetest moment in every which way... to cap a Valentines week from start to finish.

xo!

travel as education

2011-02-14T21:44:00.000-06:00

Today I'm writing over at Savvy, sharing what's been on my mind lately - travel! And thinking outside of the box when it comes to their learning on the road... Hope you'll join me at Savvy and share your ideas too.

family journalism: for week of feb 14

2011-02-14T02:50:00.003-06:00

A review of local, national and global current events that can be shared and discussed among families with young children.

People & Places:

Happy Valentine's Day! In the US today, we're celebrating a day of love and confection - sending sentiments to loved ones, exchanging gifts, flowers and chocolate. But around the world, others celebrate this holiday by varying degrees - such as giving books to each other in Spain's Catalonia region in the month of April. What ever the reason - there needn't be one. Because as my daughter says it best, "Every day is Valentine's Day!"

Table Talk: How do we show affection to our loved ones? Ask children to share their personal feelings on the many ways they feel loved by family and friends. What are the characteristics of good friendships? What does it mean to care about others? Think of examples together and write these down to be placed where everyone can see year round as a simple reminder about acts of kindness - which is also celebrated all week!
Educational: Sending a note of "I love yous" is a great way to begin teaching kids the art of sending and receiving letters. Bake cookies or dinner together using a family recipe, or a new one. Visit Random Acts of Kindness idea page for suggestions.
Resources: Wikipedia, History.com, Homeschool Mom, Random Acts of Kindness Foundation

In Feb, Google released Art Project, a powerful online tool where anyone can take a virtual tour of famous paintings by more than 400 artists. Combining Google's savvy technology, and personal wit, a band of Google art goers helped make this project happen, so that all of us could explore the interior walls of acclaimed museums from around the world. The idea is simple: bring history and amazing art within reach of - everyone. Source: Google Blog

Table Talk: How cameras and videos allow us to see places around the world.
Educational: You can create your own artwork collection while touring the galleries by selecting favorites. Research the artist's biography to learn the history, and artwork style. Select a favorite together, and help your child paint or sketch their favorite artwork by letting them create a masterpiece of their own.
Resources: Painting like Van Gogh, Make Art Like Famous Artists, Art Styles

Health:

Do you have to ask your child to eat their fruits and vegetables... over and over again? Children are no doubt picky eaters. We all know this, so why do we still pull our hair out at the table? NPR reporter shares her frustrations and anxiety over her three year old's food choices. Her findings? Offer better food choices you both can feel good about. Source: NPR News

Table Talk: Why are healthy eating habits important? Together, talk about your favorite foods and why.
Educational: What's on our plate? How many different colors and textures are there? Review the nutritional content in food, and what they are good for. This exercise also helps parents decide and plan better for meal times. Ask the children how they felt after having fresh cut apples for a mid-day snack with water versus a sugar coated "fruit roll-up" and artificially flavored juice. Create a chart that lists various fruits and vegetables with high nutritional value, and keep it accessible in the kitchen. Mark or place a sticker next to those your children will eat.
Resources: Hub Pages, FDA, Nourish Interactive

2 must-have iphone apps

2011-02-10T08:40:00.007-06:00

While we're still in awe of all the snow, I'm enjoying the warm snuggly I get when I replay videos like these I've taken with my new camera. Check out this app that I just discovered {it may have been out for awhile}, called 8mm Vintage Camera for only $1.99. Oh goodness - you can't even get a deal like this at McDonalds anymore.

You can upgrade lenses with additional purchases - but I'm still trying to figure out the ones it came with. With the click of a button, you can even make the screen flickr like the real McCoy and then email or upload it to YouTube and viola....

Ummm... yep, your eyes didn't deceive you. Aaron is indeed wearing his cargo shorts in this freezing weather.

Anyway, back to these cool apps -

I have a special place in my heart for all things vintage, so I'm in love, love with my new 8mm app.

While searching for more cool stuff, I came across another camera app that has me swooning, called Pocketbooth - a camera that emulates the 1950s Model 11 Photobooth. I know what you're thinking, photostrips? And I say - definitely yes!

I remember watching Beaches and wishing I had a black and white photostrip set taken with my sister when we were both little...spending summers at Coney Island. Oh and remember Amelie? How visually romantic!

To tell you the truth, I don't know where you would even get photostrips made anymore... It's such a novelty to have - but app developers have changed all that. {Thank goodness}.

You can take as many as you want - where ever you want - for 99 cents. Pretty sweet huh?

Just simply takes me back to better times {actually, it's even way before my time, but you get the point}.

Do you already have these apps? Drop your link/comment to share yours or let us know about other cool apps like these.

weather... no matter how bad

2011-02-09T18:52:00.001-06:00

Today I'm over at Savvy, talking about why its important to get outdoors everyday, and how no matter what's in the forecast, everyone can have fun!

planning for valentine's day

2011-02-09T14:04:00.001-06:00

Last week I contributed to the national parenting website, Savvy Source, on Celebrating Valentine's Day with Preschoolers. Check out the article here for simple ideas on how to celebrate and teach our children about the importance of friendship and caring.

While searching for more craft ideas, I came across some sites here, here and here.

I imagine we'll start crafting today since we're snowed in again (did I actually just type that about Texas?) Yep, the snow is quite romantic now that we have the fireplace on. Some scissors, construction paper and gold glitter may do us all some good today. Plus, it's always nice to think of "I love you's" and write cards to our loved ones.

So while I'm thinking and planning how this year's Valentine's will go, I wanted to share some lovely bits...

Like these letters - have you seen these? I actually stumbled upon Leafcutter Designs several months ago, and was completely tickled that such a divine postal service exists. Wouldn't it be sweet to send a loved one a tiny letter with a special message like this? More about Lea and her postal service on our Inspired Finds blog.

In the meantime, we'll also need something sweet to snack on while crafting...

This yummy chocolate cake by inner pickle - is at the top of my list. That is, if I can get mine to look like hers... and well, if I do, I think it'll be a sweet golden day for all of us at home. If not, Betty Crocker's Yellow Butter Cake Mix with Butter cream frosting topped with fresh strawberries will be my back up plan.

How about you? How are you getting ready for lovely Monday?

"papa"

2011-02-04T11:13:00.007-06:00

We went to the ICU last Tuesday to see Aaron's father. When we learned there was nothing more they could do, it felt as if all the love and sadness inside of us burst and then collided altogether. And Ron took some of it with him - when he took his last breath. Our lives shifted. And I hurt all over.

For the past 10 years, Ron has been battling cancer... and through prayer and staying positive, he continued to be very much present in all of our lives - putting us first. From the marriages of his children, to the birth of his grandchildren - he was right by our side with a smile... giving us strength, wisdom, and laughs with "Dad jokes." Ron was the kind of man who lived in the moment - enjoying and appreciating his surroundings, never rushing people, thoughts or conversations shared. He was centered, open minded, and patient, and yet planned for the future unlike any of us.

We didn't know what to say to the children. The urgency of time slipping away from us... they came briefly to say good bye at the hospital and left thinking Papa will get better soon. The truth is, we thought he'd turn this corner too - just like he had for the past 10 years... But the fact is, he did. He is better now - it just wasn't how we expected.

A dear friend dropped off this children's book to help guide us through talking about death and sadness. Maggie read Noah the book herself, and this helped his little heart accept that Papa is now an angel watching over us...

On Sunday night, at the funeral home visitation, we asked the children if they wanted to see Papa. They both did. Ava reached out and touched his hands. She blew him a kiss. Noah asked, "Papa is an angel?" Through tears and smiles, we talked how Papa actually is no longer in his body that we see before us, but with God. And whenever they missed Papa or wanted to talk to him, to listen to their hearts.

The funeral mass on Monday brought us together to acknowledge how God has blessed each of us for having him in our lives. On Tuesday, we traversed the ice and snow on our way to the DFW National Cemetery where Ron received a military funeral honors ceremony, including a folding and presenting of the United States burial flag and the playing of Taps.

During all of this, it rained... flowers, cards, emails, phone calls and visits from family and friends... I am forever grateful for each and every word and hug we received. They helped me get through this, so that I could help Aaron paddle through his own pain - We still have a long journey ahead of us.

The children have bounced in and out this week, still talking about death and the afterlife. In between us trying to get back into somewhat of a routine, they slip the words, "I miss Papa." And like Noah napping where Papa use to always sit, they each have found their own personal way to be closer to him.

Ron, I know that you know how much we love you. We just miss you so much. I hope you don't mind if I still cry from time to time...

paper blue bird in 30 minutes

2011-01-25T08:38:00.000-06:00

Some days are hectic, and we can run through an entire day and not create anything in the art room. When that happens - usually after dinner - all the kids will want to do is plop in front of the TV and call it a "movie night." Problem is we just had a few - two in a row. So this is when both Aaron and I both sit down in the art room {the kids naturally follow} and we look through our craft books for a quick project. Since Aaron picked up some extra paper plates from the local pizzeria tonight, we decided to make a paper plate blue bird.

Find out how it turned out here, on The Art of Family Crafting blog or by clicking on the Crafting Corner box on the right, where we'll be posting all of our creative art projects.

p.s: although we had a craft night instead of a movie night, while we were painting our plates blue, I asked the kids to tell me what other things are blue. Each said, "Thomas, Jay Jay, Dora's crystal..." all cartoon characters!

{sighing} well, at least I tried....

monday posts: family-oriented journalism

2011-01-23T23:52:00.066-06:00

Although we may not always have the answers to our children's inherent “but why” reactions - it’s an opportunity for all of us (the family unit) to expand and deepen the understanding of what’s happening around us in the world today. While there is so much negative media out there - there are also positive ones making big differences all around the world - and it is these types of stories that I would like to weekly post on Mondays.

I encourage you to use your knowledge, ideas and experiences, and to even take a few moments to do further research on each "current events" to help guide a family discussion at the dinner table each night this week, and share what's happening in the news. Perhaps on Wednesday, you can study a map together after talking about the blizzards up north... or craft a weather wheel, track temperatures, measure rain fall, and so on. Ask them about their thoughts and feelings, what's good, what can we learn from it... and what, if any, changes can we make as a family?

Weekly "Tabletop News" will be posted on Mondays and will include:

People & Places - From Ghandi to the seven wonders of the world, this section will feature influential and interesting people and places of our time (past and present), as well as cover current event news stories that impact people and places around the world; teaching children about cultural and societal similarities and differences.  

Health - How much do we know about our bodies? This category will cover educational features as it pertains to the human body. The more we know together, the better we can make individualized decisions - especially true when it comes to picky little eaters. From nutrition to exercise - informative tips and ideas to help encourage an all-around healthier family life-style.  

Environment - What is pollution? Why does snow have to melt? From the simple,to the most complex questions and issues, this category will cover news stories focusing on our changing planet. It’s one thing to adapt into a “greener” life style, but its another to understand and appreciate why we should... and why now instead of tomorrow.

Economics - Although financial news is boring to most {like me}, teaching young children about money is critical to their long term understanding and responsibility for themselves and our economic society. This category will feature ideas on how to explain the financial process, institute a family financial plan, and encourage active participation and contribution to the family’s financial goals.

My hope is to inspire you to have healthy discussions about current events with your children. While thinking about it throughout the week - think creatively on how to extend the learning beyond the dinner table - For example, take a trip to the library together to check out books about the historical person or country you spoke about, sign up for charitable walks, visit a recycling center, and your local bank to make deposits from their piggy banks, etc.

Not all categories will be featured each week, as much of it will depend on what's in the news, which will always be sourced for you to check out and learn more.

I hope you will join me on this new project of family-oriented journalism - If you know of a news item that falls under these topic guidelines, please let us know by leaving a comment.

blog update

2011-01-21T07:59:00.003-06:00

ahem...

OK. Yesterday on The Art of Family an announcement was made.

Today there would be an update to the blog that you have all grown to love. So are you ready? Any guesses to what the update is? Love poems….? Maybe not?

Let me give you a hint…

I, the author of what you are reading at this very moment, have never written a blog post in my whole live. I am not who you think I am. I am….

…her husband.

Don’t let the smooth taste fool you. I have no writing experience. I limit the comments on the Art of Family I write to 2 paragraphs or less because that is how long I usually last before I run out of literature. English class was a beating for me in high school and in college, I wrote in COBOL more than I did English… so you will need to bear with me. Be patient. And more important – when you leave comments, be polite. So on to the updates…

Update #1
Once per week, or as long as she lets me, I’m going to create a blog post for you. It won’t be about design. It won’t be about organization. It probably won’t be grammatically correct. But, if I succeed, it will be entertaining. <- Don’t ask who was filming that video because I am pretty sure it is illegal to film someone on an iPhone and drive at the same time.

Update #2
For you parents out there (and the future ones too) – doesn’t it just upset you when you can’t watch the news with your kids because you just know that at any moment, there is a good chance there is going to be a dead bloody headless body right there on your tv screen for all to see. I don’t want to explain to Noah why the man on TV has no head. He is not ready for that. He has nightmares about his toy cars getting flat tires. I’m not ready to pay psychologist bills quite yet. It just isn’t worth the risk. So Zarlacht is planning on dedicating one entry per week to inform you loyal followers about some ‘kid friendly’ news worthy nuggets of information. I think the plan is to cover local as well as global events – but I’ll defer her to give the details. (I’m sure there will be a comment soon enough to set the record straight)

Update #3
Have you ever wanted to create a bucket list, but you are not creative enough? Or do you just not have enough time? (That would be me right there) Zarlacht also mentioned that she is planning on creating a list of 100 things to do in Dallas. Don’t expect to find any swanky bars on this list… it’s going to be kid friendly. Leave it up to my wife to fight the good fight for the kids.

Did you see what I just did? I wrote en entire page and my brain hurts. I’ve got to stop here. Stay tuned for more of what you love – and a little of what I hope you will learn to enjoy!
- a

getting organized - kids art room

2011-01-20T09:33:00.001-06:00

Recuperating from the holidays and Ava's birthday took me longer than I had anticipated. And that's only because I'm keeping myself busy with other things - like getting ready for 2011 (and even that's taking way too long!). Which makes me realize going through this process that the entire month of January should be dedicated to this effort, instead of also trying to do a hundred and one things at the same time too. Still - it's been nice seeing changes around the house, especially in the art room - where it is incessantly messy everyday.

The hardest part was putting away their masterpieces from last year. I usually decorate the room with all their fun art - but it was time to de-clutter and make room for new ones right? I purchased this large container box last year where we started to drop in the children's paintings and 3-dimensional art. And thank goodness - both Noah and Ava's favorite pieces of 2010 all fit inside.

These dollar baskets do more than sit pretty on the shelf. Each contain different types of paint bottles we've acquired (finger paint, acrylic, tempura, etc)...

I tried to reuse what we have at home already without rushing to The Container Store and starting over. Stack-able office trays helps divide paper... and tupperware helps contain all those wriggly and fuzzy pipe-cleaners.

And the see-through containers (from IKEA) helped save my insanity. They come with removable dividers - which helped organize stickers, old game pieces, googly-eyes, and colorful gems, the kids use in their crafts.

This is actually a kitchen utensil organizer I found at IKEA - perfect for art supplies aren't they?

We started embroidery a few years ago - and I'm ashamed to say we didn't do any in 2010. So now I have these out - in a large basket (yarn gets its own) and the embroidery hoops and plastic sheets can all be found here on the shelf.

By the art room's entry, Ava and Noah each have their own baskets to hold their activity workbooks and journals. This is probably my most favorite section - because here, the kids can pull out their books when ever they feel like doing a maze, or scribbling.

The room has cleaned up well - now it's up to the planning of activities that we will do in here. From online resources, to stacks of preschool curriculum books - it makes me dizzy thinking about lesson plans for the year. Part of the problem is that I have too many resources to sort through. And the other problem, is that I'm trying to coordinate seasons, science experiments, math, reading and writing all within a general theme each month - of activities I know my kids will respond the most to (aka - not easy). It's one thing to see a great idea in a book, but its another to think through it and realize, Ava doesn't care about animals with letters on them - she may respond better to bugs.

So while this task is daunting - I've decided to not try to do a 12-month plan all right now - but rather on a weekly basis. Because if my life's a testament - I should know better... things change constantly. New ideas pop up, and there's gotta be room penciled in for spontaneity. That's the best way we know how...

Tomorrow I'll share some resources (for home and around town)...and also a big update about the blog!

milestone 5 - ava's matryoshka birthday party

2011-01-02T23:25:00.011-06:00

Ava's birthday party... oh my, where to begin? Turning 5 is one thing, and celebrating this milestone birthday is another. The theme was an easy decision - while having coffee with my sister, I shared with her my worry that I didn't want a party that looked like Disney had thrown up all over it... and while sipping - I realized that another longtime passion of Ava's is matryoshka dolls!

She's been collecting these since she was 2 - and loves to nest, name, and play with every set she has. I mentioned this to Ava, and she jumped up and down with excitement. When we talked about her cake, she asked for polka dots. So my mission was clear - matryoshkas and polka dots.

Since invitations had to be sent out early in December, World Market coincidentally sold matryoshka holiday cards. The fact that they read "Happy Holidays" was timely... and that it unfolded 5 growing dolls - resembling Ava and her birthday year - had me sold.

And you could just imagine my own sheer of excitement when I stumbled upon Lolah Pop Vintage Baby who made a polka dotted dress with its very own matryoshka doll! I ordered one right away in her size and it arrived a week before the party.

Then more luck rained - polka dotted, matryoshka doll favor boxes by Fantastic Toys... nested in a set of 5! Problem was... between Aaron and I, it took us more than 14 hours to fold and assemble. In the end... they were worth it! It still makes me smile to know how perfectly fitting her dress and the favor boxes turned out for her party. The adult favors were cupcakes from Sprinkles - dressed up in their own brown boxes with matryoshka doll key chains from World Market.

Since most of the activity was going to be in the family room, I set up a table of sweets. Colorful cones filled with goldfish and pretzels, candy canes, lollipops, and yummy pink and white sugar coated animal crackers...

Our favorite accessory here is the one we added right before the party - Ava's birthday gift. On Etsy, I found the very talented Amy Perrotti, a graphic designer who designs a beautiful worldly collection of matryoshkas. After exchanging a couple of emails, she designed an Afghan matryoshka doll and had it shipped to us just in time for her big day! The Afghan matryoshka is now apart of her collection.

I hung paper lanterns that looked like polka dots floating in the air over the dining table, and a few more matryoshka ornaments on the chandelier. For lunch, we had catered Ava and Noah's all-time favorite dish, Pasta Milano, from Macaroni and Grill and added a fruit and Mediterranean tray from Central Market. I also whipped up a batch of vegan soup for a heartier (and healthier) alternative.

As friends and family arrived, the children played a few rounds of musical chairs...

Then it was time for the cake! Thank you Mom for making it exactly the way Ava wanted it - homemade. A layer of vanilla, a layer of chocolate... and butter cream icing with polka dots!

We all sang happy birthday Ava, and I couldn't help myself. I knew I would - and I did. Inside and out, I cried... she really is 5 now... and I couldn't be more happier than this very moment.

Right after we snapped some family photos with the birthday girl, the door bell rang... and Cinderella arrived! I know, I know - Cinderella? What was encouraging about this decision, was that she is a real person dressed up for the land of fairy tales - which is what Ava is really into these days. It's is the pages from her Disney treasury book I have issues with... So, I welcomed this energetic hour of make-believe. Giving Ava something real and tangible to relate to...

Ava was surprised, excited, and in awe of the next hour...

She swooned us with magic tricks, making a real live dove appear from her bag, and then...

Noah was very excited at the party, and very much felt like it was his too.

After Cinderella left, Aaron brought out the one and only purchased Disney Princess feature - a castle pinata - to beat up on {I'm smiling}...

As the party started to wind down, Ava asked to play some of the games we left out for the kids... like sack races and a bean bag toss {which Aaron so thoughtfully covered the night before at 2am with sketches of matryoshka dolls}.

A few of Ava's cousins stayed after wards for a clean up party - and Noah fell asleep in my arms. Exhausted, yet filled with so much energy from the day's events - this was truly a memorable day for us all.

When Ava woke up the next morning in a bed full of balloons, she said, "Mom. I'm 5 years old. I'm going to school!" and then jumped up and down...

School??? I'm just barely accepting the idea that it's 2011. And whether I'm ready or not for Ava to start school in the fall - doesn't matter. But what does is what we do together leading up to it.

Being a mom feels like I've jumped on a wild roller coaster. There are lots of turns - lots of loops - and every second takes my breath away. And with the passing of each birthday celebration, I am jolted into remembering to hang on even tighter.

Happy birthday my sweet Ava... Yes, you are a mighty-five year old now. And your Dad and I are ever so proud, and ever so amazed by the brightness you bring to us all. I am taking your lead and will hold up both of my arms up in the air to enjoy this ride with you...

{View the complete slide show of the party here}

A sincere thank you to Aunt Wagma, Uncle Dave and Aunt Corbin for taking these pictures that we will always treasure!

christmas 2010

2010-12-25T23:47:00.004-06:00

Finally! Christmas morning - and the kids didn't know what to expect. With their one gift exchange last night - and how much they cherished the thoughtfulness of handmade, I was afraid I'd spoil their appreciation this morning with more wrapped gifts of new toys... So we shared with them that because they were so generous in giving to everyone else, the presents they see under the tree are from Mommy and Daddy - for them to play with in the new year...

Of course, they didn't forget about the stockings! When all was quite and the kids peered over the scattered floor, I said out loud, "Wow guys. Look at all these new toys. What do you say?"

Noah: "Thank you."

Ava: "Thank you God!"

And their priceless responses - were our gifts, and we couldn't be more happier. So without delay, we got right down to playing... These new sandbox playsets are wonderful {well... not so much for our rug} but still, a fun indoor activity, where miniature scenes take place over sand. Noah got the construction set complete with bulldozers, shovels and pails to dig and move rocks with, and Ava a princess dreams set - where she could bury jewels and ride a chariot.

Ava didn't waste anytime getting dressed for the day... as sleeping beauty... and Noah practiced using his remote control police car while Aaron and I prepared for dinner....

Thanks to Nana and Aunt Jen who helped me in the kitchen - dinner was perfect! We made chicken with goat cheese, ziti with roasted zucchini, heirloom squash farrotto and greek salad.

The ziti was a hit with Noah - but it was Ava's turn to come down with a cold. So Aunt Jen painted her toe nails bright red... and then brought out gifts...

Ava gave Nana & Papa their ornaments and Noah explained which candlestick he worked on for Aunt Jen...

The kids opened up new puzzles and much needed computer games from their Aunt Jen and Nana & Papa gave Ava the Toy Story Lotso bear she wanted and Noah a brand new basketball hoop!

The holiday rounded out so wonderfully - a week's worth... no, much longer... maybe since Thanksgiving? Where it has been a marathon celebrating every day with fun holiday outings, elving gifts, baking, cooking, starting new holiday traditions... and of course, battling the seasons colds! - my little family is exhausted. And I guess that's to be expected on Christmas isn't it? Where by evening's end - we wrapped ourselves by the fire and sat for a long chat with our loved ones. Thank you so much for making this holiday finale so memorable for us all Patenaudes!