30 March 2011

"Ohh, you like it! It's tasty!"

I wish I could share with you some photos of today - or a video - but I can't. Today was one of those days when I was living so much in the moment, that I didn't have time to capture it on film. It was also the sort of day that will forever stick in my memory, such was the fun we had today.

We've had a lot of birthdays this month, so I guess it has been on the boys' minds. After all, who wouldn't want an excuse to eat cake and ice cream, and open presents?

So today, seemingly out of the blue, Aidan and Alan decided to develop a new game. They called it, "Birthday." Well, perhaps "decide" isn't the right word, since I have no idea how this all started. All I know is they were really quiet for quite a while, and then all of a sudden came running to offer me birthday cake.

The boys, with no input from myself, made a birthday cake out of a small ball, a roll of duct tape, and a bunch of magnetic toys called Magformers. They then raided the silverware drawer for spoons and forks, and proceeded to serve "cake" to each other, and then to me, for over an hour. The Magformers served as the slices of cake, which they shared eagerly, and insisted that I use both a spoon and a fork to eat. However, the center of the cake (the ball inside the roll of duct tape) was apparently sacred; I received quite a scolding for attempting to eat it :). As Alan's mom and dad arrived home, I asked the boys to show off their cake. Oh! What delighted squeals as they rushed to show off their game!

While the boys have always had (often elaborate) games involving running, fencing, and wrestling, this is the first time I've noticed them develop truly cooperative game, with no outside help, that didn't involve physical play. I didn't detect the slightest bit of bickering, either. An hour of cooperative play, without fighting, for a three year old and a not-quite-three year old? Amazing!

But then again, as a devoted Mama and doting Auntie, I always think they're amazing.

13 March 2011

11 March 2011

Census Meme & Suicidal Turkeys

Census in the states happened long ago, but Marina inspired me to write this post, since I never bothered last year.

In March 2011, I am...27, happily married to a good man, with one living son, age 2.5, and two daughters not meant for this earth. I have four kitties, and live in a townhouse. We spend most of our free time designing the house we will build on our 2 acre plot of land. I play often with my son, when I'm not working part time for a dentist. Every Wednesday, I spend the day with my niece and nephew. I am badly out-numbered, but it is always exciting! My husband works nights, and he'll only be home 4 full days this month (plus another 4 half-days), so I am very lonely.

In March 2001, I was...17, and a senior in high school. I was accepted early decision to NYU and was enjoying my final weeks before graduation. I had just finished the winter musical. I spent almost two weeks this month in Spain with friends and teachers from school. I spent most of my spare time going out on adventures with my current boyfriend. I remember feeling free and happy.

In March 1991, I was...7, and living in a small house in urban NJ along with my parents, grandmother, and older brother. I attended a Catholic school, and didn't have many friends. My dog, Tara, was my best friend. My parents fought a lot, and I spent most of my time daydreaming or playing with toys in my room, alone. But, I don't remember being lonely.

In March 1981, I was...not born yet! But, my husband was about nine months old and just starting to walk so he could chase his older brother around :).

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Suicidal Turkeys

These turkeys tried very hard to make me hit them with my car. Either that, or they were trying to land me in the ditch. They are lucky they didn't end up in my in-law's deep freezer.

Mel: 1, Idiot birds: 0.

05 March 2011

Happy Birthday, Alan! (and Laura, Tom, & Roger)

Since Chad will be working all but 4 days this month, we decided to have an early celebration for all the March birthdays. The star, of course, was my nephew Alan, who will turn 3 on the 13th!

Mmm...that looks tasty.

I made TWO ice cream cakes from scratch. Vanilla strawberry cheesecake and my own Rocky Road mixture (chocolate, vanilla, fudge, chocolate chips, marshmallows, chocolate cheesecake, and walnuts). I learned that whipped cream doesn't make a great frosting...will have to think of something else next time. Oh well!

Make a wish, little man!

If you fall asleep at your own birthday party, we will cover you in balloons and take your picture.

Luke joins in the fun.

We played some cards.

Alan enjoyed playing with his new toys with Mom & Dad.

Kathy watches a new Preschool video with Aidan & Alan. Rectangles are captivating!

Alan is devilishly cute, even when he refuses to smile for my camera.


I feel I should also mention that there were some other birthdays that didn't get celebrated today. My dad and stepmom will also celebrate birthdays later this month. March 4th was also my due date for the first baby I lost back in 2007. Sigh.