It has been a busy week in the Smith house.
Isabel has decided to return to St. Annie's. She is so excited to start school which is a welcome change. She keeps asking me how many more days until school starts. She is excited to see her old friends, have Mrs. Hofmann for 1st grade, and have a longer bus ride! It was cool. The last day before Christmas break, I took Isabel over to St. Annie's to register and meet her teacher. Mrs. Hofmann appeared excited to have Isabel joining her class. She told the class that they were all getting an early Christmas present and that Isabel would be joining their class after the Christmas break. It was really cool to see the kids reaction and Isabel's face. The kids jumped up and down, yelled, and even a few girls gave Isabel a big hug. Isabel was glowing! I am so happy that she will be wearing a uniform again. That should make life much easier.
We took the kids skiing in Camelback. It was awesome. All of the kids loved it! We had two pairs of skis and three kids that wanted to ski. Isabel finally moved off the bunny slope and did an easy run with grandma and grandpa. Chloe is still using the racer vest, but has great balance! Brady looked so cool on his skis. He had amazing balance for a 2 1/2 year old little boy. Every time he reached the bottom of the hill, he yelled, "Again, again, again!" So stinking cute! After an afternoon on skis, we returned to the mountain house to warm up with some hot chocolate and "whoop" cream as Chloe says.
For New Years Eve, we took the kids into Philadelphia to see the light shows at the Comcast building and Macy's. It was a fun afternoon. We took the train from Bryn Mawr Train Station. Certainly the train was a highlight for Brady. He asked me if we were going to ride Thomas the Train.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
Chloe loves her Pink Clappers
This week Chloe received a new pair of shoes from Autumn, a pair of bright pink wooden clogs. Chloe adores them!! Although, she cannot walk in them very well, she just loves the noise they make. I am so worried she is going to fall down the steps or twist an ankle in these shoes. Chloe loves the shoes so much that she has even given them a name, the Pink Clappers! Whenever she is sitting, for example, in the car, she starts tapping the shoes making a loud clapping noise! I think I might know why Autumn gave these shoes away despite having four girls to potentially wear these fun shoes!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
The kids are growing up so quickly
Isabel
Isabel you are a social little girl. While you do not love school, you do love the opportunity to see your friends. As soon as you get home, the first thing you ask me is, "Can I have a playdate?" You love parties and all social gatherings.
You are taking dance again this year at Art in Motion. You love dancing and you love music! One of your favorite songs this year is "Dynomite" by Taio Cruz. We all love dancing to this song in the kitchen - even Brady! You also love to wrestle with Daddy when he gets home and play the trap game.
You are really blooming as a reader. You enjoy reading the Fancy Nancy I Can Read books and also the Pinkalicious I Can Read books. You have been learning lots of new sight words at school. Daddy has made this a fun activity for you while at home. Whenever you get a difficult word correct, you and daddy say in unison, "Boom goes the dynomite!" and smash your fists on the table. Lots of fun!
One obstacle in our relationship this year, Miss Isabel, is clothing and picking out clothes. You are a very independent little girl and have your own sense of style. You and I do not always agree on what makes a great outfit. Oh, how I miss the school uniform.
Isabel, I love to look into your big beautiful blue eyes. I love it when you curl up in my arms and tell me that you love me. You are a joy!
Just this past weekend, I dropped you off at a party, and you told me, "No kiss, just hug!" My little girl is growing up (so fast)!
Chloe
You are a free spirit Chloe! You keep me on my toes as a mommy. I am always unsure of myself when I am parenting you. You bring me great joy. I love your confidence, vivid imagination, and your curiosity. However, it is these very things that I love about you that give me the most trouble. Chloe, while you are the queen of asking for forgiveness, you rarely ask for permission.
You are a very bright girl, Chloe. You ask great questions and love to share interesting facts you learn with others. Just this past weekend, you shared with Sean O'Reilly, that people are at the top of the food chain on land and that sharks are at the top of the food chain in water.
You are really enjoying school this year. Each week we work on your homework together. For each letter, you have to find or draw pictures of words that begin with those letters. You are able to do the homework independently. You are also learning sight words and developing as a reader. You love to color and draw pictures.
This year you are very excited about Christmas! Probably the most enthusiastic in the entire house. You have made lists and lists and lists for Santa. In fact, today, while working on your homework, you got sidetracked and started cutting out more pictures for your list.
You love putting together puzzles. You will sit for an hour and work on putting puzzles together. It is not unusual for you to put together a 100-piece puzzle several times in a row. It is a delight to watch your mind work.
Chloe, I want you to know that no matter what you do, I will always love you! You are a light in my life. You are a unique little girl that is destined to do great things. I love you, Chloe May.
Brady
Hugs and Kisses!
Mommy
Isabel you are a social little girl. While you do not love school, you do love the opportunity to see your friends. As soon as you get home, the first thing you ask me is, "Can I have a playdate?" You love parties and all social gatherings.
You are taking dance again this year at Art in Motion. You love dancing and you love music! One of your favorite songs this year is "Dynomite" by Taio Cruz. We all love dancing to this song in the kitchen - even Brady! You also love to wrestle with Daddy when he gets home and play the trap game.
You are really blooming as a reader. You enjoy reading the Fancy Nancy I Can Read books and also the Pinkalicious I Can Read books. You have been learning lots of new sight words at school. Daddy has made this a fun activity for you while at home. Whenever you get a difficult word correct, you and daddy say in unison, "Boom goes the dynomite!" and smash your fists on the table. Lots of fun!
One obstacle in our relationship this year, Miss Isabel, is clothing and picking out clothes. You are a very independent little girl and have your own sense of style. You and I do not always agree on what makes a great outfit. Oh, how I miss the school uniform.
Isabel, I love to look into your big beautiful blue eyes. I love it when you curl up in my arms and tell me that you love me. You are a joy!
Just this past weekend, I dropped you off at a party, and you told me, "No kiss, just hug!" My little girl is growing up (so fast)!
Chloe
You are a free spirit Chloe! You keep me on my toes as a mommy. I am always unsure of myself when I am parenting you. You bring me great joy. I love your confidence, vivid imagination, and your curiosity. However, it is these very things that I love about you that give me the most trouble. Chloe, while you are the queen of asking for forgiveness, you rarely ask for permission.
You are a very bright girl, Chloe. You ask great questions and love to share interesting facts you learn with others. Just this past weekend, you shared with Sean O'Reilly, that people are at the top of the food chain on land and that sharks are at the top of the food chain in water.
You are really enjoying school this year. Each week we work on your homework together. For each letter, you have to find or draw pictures of words that begin with those letters. You are able to do the homework independently. You are also learning sight words and developing as a reader. You love to color and draw pictures.
This year you are very excited about Christmas! Probably the most enthusiastic in the entire house. You have made lists and lists and lists for Santa. In fact, today, while working on your homework, you got sidetracked and started cutting out more pictures for your list.
You love putting together puzzles. You will sit for an hour and work on putting puzzles together. It is not unusual for you to put together a 100-piece puzzle several times in a row. It is a delight to watch your mind work.
Chloe, I want you to know that no matter what you do, I will always love you! You are a light in my life. You are a unique little girl that is destined to do great things. I love you, Chloe May.
Brady
Hugs and Kisses!
Mommy
Chloe loses her 1st tooth....with a little help from Grandpa!
We celebrated Thanksgiving at the beach this year with Mary Ellen and Fred (aka...grandma and grandpa). Isabel was excited about the prospect of her sister losing her first tooth at the beach, while Chloe was terrified about the thought of her tooth being yanked out. Isabel can be a persuasive one and somehow managed to build Chloe's trust and convince her to let grandpa pull her first tooth.
After dinner, grandpa counted....one, two, three and pulled out the tooth. Within seconds, Chloe let out a wail and tears were streaming down her face. It was awful, she was so upset. A moment mom has captured on video.
Chloe looked at her sister and said, "It hurt. You said it wouldn't hurt!"
Fortunately, the tooth fairy would be coming that night and leaving a note for Chloe and of course, $$$$. A crisp, new dollar for the first tooth. The tooth fairy did not have any gold coins that night.
Interestingly, both of my girls lost their first tooth while at the beach house, and both of them, had it pulled by their grandpa. Chloe swears grandpa will not be pulling anymore of her teeth!
After dinner, grandpa counted....one, two, three and pulled out the tooth. Within seconds, Chloe let out a wail and tears were streaming down her face. It was awful, she was so upset. A moment mom has captured on video.
Chloe looked at her sister and said, "It hurt. You said it wouldn't hurt!"
Fortunately, the tooth fairy would be coming that night and leaving a note for Chloe and of course, $$$$. A crisp, new dollar for the first tooth. The tooth fairy did not have any gold coins that night.
Interestingly, both of my girls lost their first tooth while at the beach house, and both of them, had it pulled by their grandpa. Chloe swears grandpa will not be pulling anymore of her teeth!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Where does the time go?
I cannot believe I have not included a post in the last three months. Where does the time go?
Isabel is adjusting at Culbertson. I still worry (almost daily) if I have made the right decision for Isabel. I am not thrilled with Mrs. Lebo (her teacher) or the principal at Culbertson, although I must admit I think she is getting a good education. Daddy and I are so proud of you Isabel Grace. You are blooming in First Grade! You are making new friends and learning lots of new things at school.
There is no question Isabel that you have always loved books and being read to each day. However, you have not always loved reading on your own. In Kindergarten, you started to learn how to read, but you resisted reading and seemed to view it as a chore. I am so happy to see the transformation this year! You have not only grown to be a confident reader, but you now love, love, love reading to mommy and daddy! Some of your favorite "I Can Read" books are the Fancy Nancy Series and Pinkalicious.
Brayden and Chloe are at Trinity Preschool in Berwyn this year! It is so nice for them to go to school with their buddies. Chloe is in Pre-K with Maggie and Eva while Brady is in the 2's class with Jimmy. Chloe surprisingly reported to mommy a few belly aches at the beginning of the year, although her teacher, Mrs. Albanese, said Chloe seemed to transition beautifully to her new school. She described Chloe as smart, imaginative, confident, a leader among her peers, very social, and of course, funny! Apparently, Chloe creates games for everyone to play like Scooby Doo! Chloe has made some new friends at Trinity. Two early friends were Natalina and Scott! The little boy Scott ADORES Chloe. It was funny because at the School Social two different moms told Andy and I how their sons just love Chloe! I must admit this has me a little worried! Chloe you are a handful, kiddo! I do love you dearly as you bring a smile to my face each and every day. This is a wonderful gift, sweetheart.
Brayden, was so excited the first few weeks of school. He charged into the classroom and wanted to go to school just like his big sisters. However, about two weeks in things changed dramatically. He no longer wanted to go to school and would cling to my legs and cry out, "No School, No School Mommy!" He is a strong-willed little boy that does not quit easily. One day I waited in the hallway for almost 30 minutes. He started pounding on the walls and getting red in the face. Finally, the teachers relented and asked me to try again the next day. These tantrums lasted a full two weeks, but the teachers were patient, and finally, he adjusted to school. He loves seeing Jimmy. They have developed a great little friendship. They wrestle and love each other like brothers! Brady is a smart little boy. Last week at school they read a book about a turkey that gobbled up shapes. Ms. Lisa told me every time she turned the page he would shout out the shapes! She said he knows so much for being just 2 1/2. Brady knows his letters and most of their sounds, numbers, and all of his colors and shapes! The funny thing is Brady didn't know his colors until he was two years old and I remember being really worried that he was colorblind. Brady you are a smart and curious little boy who has no trouble keeping up with your big sisters. I love you Brady!
Isabel is adjusting at Culbertson. I still worry (almost daily) if I have made the right decision for Isabel. I am not thrilled with Mrs. Lebo (her teacher) or the principal at Culbertson, although I must admit I think she is getting a good education. Daddy and I are so proud of you Isabel Grace. You are blooming in First Grade! You are making new friends and learning lots of new things at school.
There is no question Isabel that you have always loved books and being read to each day. However, you have not always loved reading on your own. In Kindergarten, you started to learn how to read, but you resisted reading and seemed to view it as a chore. I am so happy to see the transformation this year! You have not only grown to be a confident reader, but you now love, love, love reading to mommy and daddy! Some of your favorite "I Can Read" books are the Fancy Nancy Series and Pinkalicious.
Brayden and Chloe are at Trinity Preschool in Berwyn this year! It is so nice for them to go to school with their buddies. Chloe is in Pre-K with Maggie and Eva while Brady is in the 2's class with Jimmy. Chloe surprisingly reported to mommy a few belly aches at the beginning of the year, although her teacher, Mrs. Albanese, said Chloe seemed to transition beautifully to her new school. She described Chloe as smart, imaginative, confident, a leader among her peers, very social, and of course, funny! Apparently, Chloe creates games for everyone to play like Scooby Doo! Chloe has made some new friends at Trinity. Two early friends were Natalina and Scott! The little boy Scott ADORES Chloe. It was funny because at the School Social two different moms told Andy and I how their sons just love Chloe! I must admit this has me a little worried! Chloe you are a handful, kiddo! I do love you dearly as you bring a smile to my face each and every day. This is a wonderful gift, sweetheart.
Brayden, was so excited the first few weeks of school. He charged into the classroom and wanted to go to school just like his big sisters. However, about two weeks in things changed dramatically. He no longer wanted to go to school and would cling to my legs and cry out, "No School, No School Mommy!" He is a strong-willed little boy that does not quit easily. One day I waited in the hallway for almost 30 minutes. He started pounding on the walls and getting red in the face. Finally, the teachers relented and asked me to try again the next day. These tantrums lasted a full two weeks, but the teachers were patient, and finally, he adjusted to school. He loves seeing Jimmy. They have developed a great little friendship. They wrestle and love each other like brothers! Brady is a smart little boy. Last week at school they read a book about a turkey that gobbled up shapes. Ms. Lisa told me every time she turned the page he would shout out the shapes! She said he knows so much for being just 2 1/2. Brady knows his letters and most of their sounds, numbers, and all of his colors and shapes! The funny thing is Brady didn't know his colors until he was two years old and I remember being really worried that he was colorblind. Brady you are a smart and curious little boy who has no trouble keeping up with your big sisters. I love you Brady!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
The Kissing Hand
For the first day, as a family, we walked Isabel up to Culbertson. The school was bustling with activity. The school looked picture perfect with freshly groomed flower beds and mulch, blue and silver star balloons blowing in the wind, and teachers and administrators welcoming new and old students to Culbertson with smiles on their faces! Isabel was happy to see many old friends at her new school including Catherine Curley, Grayce King, and Wyatt Johnson from Pre-K, Natalie Maye and Grace Goldbeck also from Nursery School, and Ella D'Allesandro from St. Annie's. Her teacher, Mrs. Lebo, was waiting for her students in the doorway and greeted Isabel with a warm hug!
I was hoping to pick Isabel up from school at the close of the day, but she was adamant that she wanted to ride the school bus home. Reluctantly, I agreed to meet her at the bus stop. At 3:36 the school bus stopped at Horton and Tyson, but Isabel never made it off the bus. With panic in my voice, I was able to get the bus drivers attention and question him to the whereabouts of my daughter. After calling her name several times Isabel came bouncing down the aisle with a smile on her face. I asked her why she didn't get off the bus, and she matter of factly answered, she didn't know it was her bus stop! I couldn't argue with that, how would she know??
Then came the big question, "How was your first day?" Her reply, "awesome!" Probing further, I asked, "What did you do today?" She told me, Mrs. Lebo, read the Kissing Hand. She then grabbed my hand, kissed my palm, gently closed-up each finger, and put my hand to my cheek. It was very sweet and made my heart flutter!
I couldn't have asked for a better start to the school year!
Isabel survived her first day at Culbertson in first grade. We
I was hoping to pick Isabel up from school at the close of the day, but she was adamant that she wanted to ride the school bus home. Reluctantly, I agreed to meet her at the bus stop. At 3:36 the school bus stopped at Horton and Tyson, but Isabel never made it off the bus. With panic in my voice, I was able to get the bus drivers attention and question him to the whereabouts of my daughter. After calling her name several times Isabel came bouncing down the aisle with a smile on her face. I asked her why she didn't get off the bus, and she matter of factly answered, she didn't know it was her bus stop! I couldn't argue with that, how would she know??
Then came the big question, "How was your first day?" Her reply, "awesome!" Probing further, I asked, "What did you do today?" She told me, Mrs. Lebo, read the Kissing Hand. She then grabbed my hand, kissed my palm, gently closed-up each finger, and put my hand to my cheek. It was very sweet and made my heart flutter!
I couldn't have asked for a better start to the school year!
Isabel survived her first day at Culbertson in first grade. We
Big changes in the Smith House - Isabel moves to Culbertson!
Well, after much indecision, Andy and I finally decided to move Isabel to Culbertson Elementary for 1st grade. We loved St. Annie's, but felt deeply that Isabel's needs would be better served in the public school. To prepare for the change, Isabel got a lot of new back to school clothes, which she loved! Her favorite fashion piece was the "jeggings" a legging/jean combo. Surprisingly, while she is definitely nervous about a new school, she is also looking forward to some things like a big playground and wearing her own clothes! We visited Culbertson a few days before school and found out that she already knew 4 other kids in her class - 3 from Pre-K and one from St. Annie's. This eased her nerves big time. The Culbertson community has quickly embraced our family. We went to a Back to School barbecue at St. Alban's for Labor Day and met lots of new families. To date the change has been easier than I expected, but I think I'll wait on a verdict until the first day of school!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Chloe's Rockin' Chipmunk Party!!
Chloe decided that this year for her birthday she wanted to celebrate Chipmunk style. Chloe has such personality. I love throwing parties for my kids birthdays and this event was no exception. This theme was tricky, but thanks to the internet and some advance planning, it turned out awesome!
We decorated the house with Chipmunk colors - blue, green, and red streamers and balloons- and went with the Rock Star theme! It was cool we hung music notes around the house, hung garland in the doorway with rock n roll cutouts, and hung pictures of the Chipmunks and Chipettes that the girls had previously colored. As the guests arrived, chipmunk music was playing and the kids sat down to color chipmunk and chipette pictures with their friends.
After everyone arrived, it was time for organized party games. We had a huge Theodore tri-fold poster with his mouth cut out to play the game "Feed Theodore" by throwing in orange colored ping pong balls (pretend cheese balls). Thanks, John Yunza!! Next, one kid at a time had a chance to hide an "Alvin" somewhere in the house and all the kids would hunt for the beanie baby. Whoever found it had to yell, "ALVIN!!" This game was an instant hit. Then we played a version of hot potato using a Brittany doll and Chipmunk music. After the games, it was time for a party craft. All of the kids made pretend microphones with toilet paper holders, styrofoam balls, stickers, jewels, and lots and lots of glitter. To end the party, the kids ate some birthday cake and filled their goody bags with candy from a guitar pinata. All kids went home happy with their craft, candy, and a cd with chipmunk music.
Chloe was glowing when the party was over. I know Chloe had fun because she later told me, "I love you, mama!" The funny thing is I think she is already thinking about what kind of party she wants next year.
We decorated the house with Chipmunk colors - blue, green, and red streamers and balloons- and went with the Rock Star theme! It was cool we hung music notes around the house, hung garland in the doorway with rock n roll cutouts, and hung pictures of the Chipmunks and Chipettes that the girls had previously colored. As the guests arrived, chipmunk music was playing and the kids sat down to color chipmunk and chipette pictures with their friends.
After everyone arrived, it was time for organized party games. We had a huge Theodore tri-fold poster with his mouth cut out to play the game "Feed Theodore" by throwing in orange colored ping pong balls (pretend cheese balls). Thanks, John Yunza!! Next, one kid at a time had a chance to hide an "Alvin" somewhere in the house and all the kids would hunt for the beanie baby. Whoever found it had to yell, "ALVIN!!" This game was an instant hit. Then we played a version of hot potato using a Brittany doll and Chipmunk music. After the games, it was time for a party craft. All of the kids made pretend microphones with toilet paper holders, styrofoam balls, stickers, jewels, and lots and lots of glitter. To end the party, the kids ate some birthday cake and filled their goody bags with candy from a guitar pinata. All kids went home happy with their craft, candy, and a cd with chipmunk music.
Chloe was glowing when the party was over. I know Chloe had fun because she later told me, "I love you, mama!" The funny thing is I think she is already thinking about what kind of party she wants next year.
Chloe turns 5!
I cannot believe Chloe turned 5!! She is really growing up fast. It is funny because I have always thought of Isabel as the big girl and Chloe as the baby sister even though they are only 15 months apart.
As Chloe is grandma's beach baby, it has become tradition for us to celebrate her actual birthday in Bethany. This makes Chloe feel extra special. Grandma bought her a beach themed cake and a beautiful silver mermaid necklace. At the beach for Chloe's birthday this year was the Hamilton family, Nancy and Matthew Donahue (for the day), Kimmy and Frank, and of course, Grandma and Grandpa. Everyone went into Chloe's room the morning of her birthday to sing Happy Birthday. Funny enough, she did not budge. We have it on camera. She sleeps like a log. Chloe loved her presents! She got the chipmunk and chipette figures from McDonald's, a horse for her American girl doll, and a dolphin pillow pet.
Things we love about Chloe:
-She can make most anyone laugh with her silliness
-She is passionate about horses and dogs (and everyone knows it!)
-She loves to play with her American Girl doll
-She is obsessed with the Chipmunks and Chipettes! She loves the latest movie, "The Squeakquel" and the talking chipmunk figures from McDonald's that say things like, "Hello gorgeous!"
-She adores her friends, Kirsten and Mags, and of course her cousin, Katie!
-She is mischievous and very creative
-She hates to walk and would much rather cruise in a stroller
-She loves to dress herself and really has a great sense of style!
-She loves to cuddle Lexy and routinely talks to the dog
-She is afraid of the dark, roller coasters, her nightmares, and shots
-She does not like loud noises (big parties with music, fireworks, etc...)
-She can sleep anywhere and at anytime of day. We joke she is efficient with her time because if there isn't anything exciting going on Chloe is "lights out".
-She loves to color!
-She loves to read picture books at bedtime.
She sure is a special one!
As Chloe is grandma's beach baby, it has become tradition for us to celebrate her actual birthday in Bethany. This makes Chloe feel extra special. Grandma bought her a beach themed cake and a beautiful silver mermaid necklace. At the beach for Chloe's birthday this year was the Hamilton family, Nancy and Matthew Donahue (for the day), Kimmy and Frank, and of course, Grandma and Grandpa. Everyone went into Chloe's room the morning of her birthday to sing Happy Birthday. Funny enough, she did not budge. We have it on camera. She sleeps like a log. Chloe loved her presents! She got the chipmunk and chipette figures from McDonald's, a horse for her American girl doll, and a dolphin pillow pet.
Things we love about Chloe:
-She can make most anyone laugh with her silliness
-She is passionate about horses and dogs (and everyone knows it!)
-She loves to play with her American Girl doll
-She is obsessed with the Chipmunks and Chipettes! She loves the latest movie, "The Squeakquel" and the talking chipmunk figures from McDonald's that say things like, "Hello gorgeous!"
-She adores her friends, Kirsten and Mags, and of course her cousin, Katie!
-She is mischievous and very creative
-She hates to walk and would much rather cruise in a stroller
-She loves to dress herself and really has a great sense of style!
-She loves to cuddle Lexy and routinely talks to the dog
-She is afraid of the dark, roller coasters, her nightmares, and shots
-She does not like loud noises (big parties with music, fireworks, etc...)
-She can sleep anywhere and at anytime of day. We joke she is efficient with her time because if there isn't anything exciting going on Chloe is "lights out".
-She loves to color!
-She loves to read picture books at bedtime.
She sure is a special one!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Isabel's Toothless Grin!
Dear Isabel,
Congratulations! You did it! You lost your first tooth today while at the beach house with just a little help from grandpa, Fred! I think your grandpa was as excited as you about the prospect of a loose tooth. You loved to wiggle that tooth and kept hoping and waiting for it to fall out. It is a special moment that you will share with grandpa always. Treasure the memory!
Do you feel any different now with that toothless grin? You have a beautiful smile! Losing a tooth is a sign of growing up. This has been a big year for you with finishing Kindergarten, learning to ride a two-wheeler, mastering the yo-yo, and now losing your very first tooth. You have a lot to be proud of Isabel Grace.
This tooth is very special and filled with magic. I can tell it is an excellent tooth because it is strong,, has good color, pearly white, and comes from the mouth of a very special girl. Teeth that possess these three qualities are very valuable in Tooth Fairy Land.
Thank you for leaving me your 1st tooth. During my visit, I noticed you had a memory box in your closet holding some of your most important childhood treasures. While I would love to add your 1st tooth to my collection, I think you should add this very special first tooth to your own collection of unique things. Besides it won’t be long before you will lose more teeth! I look forward to collecting the rest of your fine teeth. Please continue to take good care of them and remember to floss and brush, brush, brush!
Love,
The Tooth Fairy
Congratulations! You did it! You lost your first tooth today while at the beach house with just a little help from grandpa, Fred! I think your grandpa was as excited as you about the prospect of a loose tooth. You loved to wiggle that tooth and kept hoping and waiting for it to fall out. It is a special moment that you will share with grandpa always. Treasure the memory!
Do you feel any different now with that toothless grin? You have a beautiful smile! Losing a tooth is a sign of growing up. This has been a big year for you with finishing Kindergarten, learning to ride a two-wheeler, mastering the yo-yo, and now losing your very first tooth. You have a lot to be proud of Isabel Grace.
This tooth is very special and filled with magic. I can tell it is an excellent tooth because it is strong,, has good color, pearly white, and comes from the mouth of a very special girl. Teeth that possess these three qualities are very valuable in Tooth Fairy Land.
Thank you for leaving me your 1st tooth. During my visit, I noticed you had a memory box in your closet holding some of your most important childhood treasures. While I would love to add your 1st tooth to my collection, I think you should add this very special first tooth to your own collection of unique things. Besides it won’t be long before you will lose more teeth! I look forward to collecting the rest of your fine teeth. Please continue to take good care of them and remember to floss and brush, brush, brush!
Love,
The Tooth Fairy
Monday, June 14, 2010
Isabel, my shining star!
I cannot believe it, Isabel has officially completed Kindergarten! Andy, Brady, and I attended the Kindergarten closing last Thursday. The kids sang lots of songs from the school year, my favorite was Math Macharena, where they counted by 1's, 2's, 5's, and 10's while doing the hand motions! I have to admit it was hard to pay attention as Brady wanted to talk the entire time....honestly, he would not shut up! Unfortunately, he is a momma's boy, so going to daddy was not an option. He would've screamed. I took him to the back of the hall and walked around with him. He is completely aware of his surroundings and wants to tell you all about it. I got to hear all of the Kindergarten songs, but really wished I could've sat down and watched the entire show. Isabel was in the very back row (again!!) so it was almost impossible to see her anyway. At the end of the ceremony, Mr. Kohlhepp gave out certificates, to make it official.
Another exciting event, was the dance recital this past weekend. Nana, Pop Pop, and Gigi came to see the show again this year. Isabel danced to Beauty and the Beast (ballet) and Everyone's a Star (jazz)! She looked amazing. I was so proud of her. She had such grace and presence on stage. Isabel you are a star in my eyes!!
Another exciting event, was the dance recital this past weekend. Nana, Pop Pop, and Gigi came to see the show again this year. Isabel danced to Beauty and the Beast (ballet) and Everyone's a Star (jazz)! She looked amazing. I was so proud of her. She had such grace and presence on stage. Isabel you are a star in my eyes!!
A loose tooth for Isabel
Last December, the girls went to the dentist for a cleaning and check-up. The dentist thought she felt Isabel's bottom teeth wiggle, but after looking at the x-rays, informed Isabel that she probably wouldn't lose a tooth for at least another six months. Isabel was so disappointed! Secretly, I was relieved. I guess I am not ready for my little girl to grow up and have her big girl teeth. Isabel's friends have been losing teeth since preschool. She is very curious and excited about this experience.
Anyway, it seems that since the last visit to the dentist, Isabel has been jiggling those two front teeth a little each day hoping to make them just a little bit looser. Routinely, she asks me, "Mom, do you think my teeth are getting looser?" In fact, this morning she asked me that very question. After checking, there was still barely a wiggle. I thought it would be months until my little girl lost her first tooth!
Surprisingly, this evening, Isabel came running up the stairs, yelling, "Mom, Mom, you are not gonna believe it! My tooth is loose! Do you wanna feel it? Can you believe it?" I have to admit I was shocked. One of her bottom teeth is actually quite loose. While she is very excited, she is actually a little bit nervous too! Looks like mom is going to have to accept the fact that little girls do grow up!
Anyway, it seems that since the last visit to the dentist, Isabel has been jiggling those two front teeth a little each day hoping to make them just a little bit looser. Routinely, she asks me, "Mom, do you think my teeth are getting looser?" In fact, this morning she asked me that very question. After checking, there was still barely a wiggle. I thought it would be months until my little girl lost her first tooth!
Surprisingly, this evening, Isabel came running up the stairs, yelling, "Mom, Mom, you are not gonna believe it! My tooth is loose! Do you wanna feel it? Can you believe it?" I have to admit I was shocked. One of her bottom teeth is actually quite loose. While she is very excited, she is actually a little bit nervous too! Looks like mom is going to have to accept the fact that little girls do grow up!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Chloe, my little cowgirl!!
Today was a very special day for Chloe May! Mrs. Lewis, her teacher from NSPCNS, invited Chloe and her pal Kiersten to feed, groom, and ride her horse, Wise Guy at the barn! She dressed in pants, a t-shirt, boots, and her cowgirl hat. Chloe was all smiles and unable to hide the excitement in her eyes.
While at the barn, the girls measured out the food for all five horses. Mrs. Lewis then put the food in the stalls and let the horses eat. It was funny because the horses knew it was dinner time, some of them began to snort, whinny, or even stomp their hooves. After dinner, the girls had an opportunity to give Wise Guy a snack - carrots and and an apple (which Chloe brought from home)! Then it was time to remove the empty feed buckets from the horses stalls and rinse them.
Mrs. Lewis then taught the girls a little about horses and how to care for them. The girls had an opportunity to use a curry comb to loosen the dirt, use a stiff bristle brush to remove any dirt, use a finishing or soft bristled brush to make the coat shiny, and finally, use a hoof pick to clean out the horses hooves.
Finally, Mrs. Lewis put a saddle and reins on the horse and took the girls for a ride. Chloe enjoyed walking and trotting on Wise Guy! I think Chloe's favorite part was pulling on the reins and saying, "Whoa!" to bring the horse to a halt.
One certainty is that Chloe has an innate passion for all animals. She seemed to have a glow about her from the moment we arrived at the barn; she was truly in horsey heaven! It was a wonderful evening for both mom and Chloe!
I love you Chloe, my little cowgirl!
While at the barn, the girls measured out the food for all five horses. Mrs. Lewis then put the food in the stalls and let the horses eat. It was funny because the horses knew it was dinner time, some of them began to snort, whinny, or even stomp their hooves. After dinner, the girls had an opportunity to give Wise Guy a snack - carrots and and an apple (which Chloe brought from home)! Then it was time to remove the empty feed buckets from the horses stalls and rinse them.
Mrs. Lewis then taught the girls a little about horses and how to care for them. The girls had an opportunity to use a curry comb to loosen the dirt, use a stiff bristle brush to remove any dirt, use a finishing or soft bristled brush to make the coat shiny, and finally, use a hoof pick to clean out the horses hooves.
Finally, Mrs. Lewis put a saddle and reins on the horse and took the girls for a ride. Chloe enjoyed walking and trotting on Wise Guy! I think Chloe's favorite part was pulling on the reins and saying, "Whoa!" to bring the horse to a halt.
One certainty is that Chloe has an innate passion for all animals. She seemed to have a glow about her from the moment we arrived at the barn; she was truly in horsey heaven! It was a wonderful evening for both mom and Chloe!
I love you Chloe, my little cowgirl!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Happenings in the Smith Household
All about Incredible Isabel...
She is READING! Mommy and daddy are so proud!! She reads to us every night. Her fluency and decoding skills have exploded in the last two months. We just had a conference with Mrs. Hopkins, Isabel's Kindergarten teacher. Isabel is doing very well in school. Areas the teacher would like to see improvement include listening and completing her seat work. The teacher expressed how hard Isabel works and that she is an absolute delight in the classroom. Very bright, kind, happy, and always respectful.
The teacher told us that Isabel gets along with all of her classmates. Recently, she found Isabel standing outside the bathroom holding all of her friends pencil cases. When she asked Isabel why she was doing this, Isabel replied so that her friends could use the bathroom and wash their hands. While very sweet, this was not acceptable to her teacher. Thank goodness Mrs. Hopkins seized the opportunity for a teachable moment and explained to all of the girls, including Isabel, that this sort of behavior was not being a good friend.
She loves to play outside - you can usually find her swinging from the monkey bars, digging for worms, climbing a tree, riding her scooter or bike, or looking for Pearse! She loves our neighbor!
Isabel always wants to have a playdate, not a day goes by when she doesn't ask to have a friend over. She is incredibly social. I need to make more of an effort to coordinate playdates for Isabel.
She loves to draw and write. Recently, without my knowing, Isabel wrote and gave out some invitations at school to her birthday party! Can't fault her enthusiasm! She is sooo excited to have a birthday!!! I had to explain that we need to make a list before giving out invitations and that it would not be possible to invite the entire class (there are 27 kids....Yikes!)
She loves to play dolls with her sister, Chloe! They have a beautiful relationship. It makes me so happy.
She loves to sing, dance and put on shows! Tonight, Isabel and Chloe, did a rendition of the alphabet song from the Letter Factory! Adorable!!
She loves reading. One of her favorite series is the Magic Tree House. It is astonishing how much she comprehends. She is so bright! Yes, I am biased, I am her mother! Although, I really don't believe I am.
Isabel is a determined little girl. She is currently working on learning to tie her shoes, trying to snap her fingers, and how to whistle. It is unbelievable how long and hard she will work to develop these new skills. No one will ever say she doesn't work hard...this girl has Perseverance with a capital P!
Currently, she is taking swim lessons at Malvern and working on her big arms and back stroke. I am really beginning to see her skills develop! She really wants to be on Mini-Team at St. Alban's! I routing for you sweetheart!
All about Clever Chloe
Chloe is an animal lover! She can't keep her hands off of our dog, Lexy. She is incredibly affectionate and loving to the dog. It is so sweet...she told me today that her favorite letter is "L" because it is the first letter in Lexy's name. It is not unusual for me to find Chloe having a conversation with the dog. She actually carries on both sides of the conversation.
Chloe is so charismatic. She loves school and her teacher, Mrs. Lewis. Chloe and her teacher share a passion, animals, but specifically horses. Chloe has so many clothes with horses....an umbrella, raincoat, jeans, corduroys, socks, underwear, hair bows, and many shirts. It is a rare day when Chloe is not wearing an outfit with horses.
She is very bright. She recognizes all of the capital and lowercase letters in the alphabet, letter sounds, and is beginning to read. We just started reading the Bob Books. Her sister, Isabel, is a wonderful role model. She is also good with numbers. I will never forget when Erin and I were at Rose Tree Park, Chloe was just 22 months, and we discovered that Chloe recognized most of the numbers and letters in a deck of playing cards.
Chloe has a wonderful imagination. She loves to play with her American girl doll, Sarah. She will change her dolls countless times and can play by herself for what seems like hours. Chloe also loves to play with groovy dolls, work on mosaics, play trains with her brother, put together puzzles, and of course, dress-up!!
She is gaining confidence in the swimming pool. She too is working on big arms and back stroke.
Chloe has a lot of fears. Today she said her daddy told her that it would be okay for her to just stay in bed if she gets sick until she gets better. She told me she didn't want to ever go to a hospital. This breaks my heart!
Babbling Brayden
Recently, Brayden and I started a mommy and me class together at Gymboree. It is a total delight watching him explore his surroundings at the play gym and participate in the class. He loves climbing, jumping, and sliding on the play structures, and of course, bubble and parachute time. Toddler Heaven!!
Brady is a momma's boy! He loves to be held and share a hug with me. Brady, mommy loves it too!
Surprisingly, Brady calls me "mommy!" It sounds so grown-up to me. At his age, Isabel called me "mom mom" and Chloe called me (and actually still does) "momma". Brady's language is rapidly developing. His vocabulary is incredible, learning lots of new words everyday. One of the funniest things he says is, "Shake your body!" It is hilarious.
Most recently he has developed a crush on the athletic, smart, helpful, fun-loving, Spanish-speaking Dora! He insists on wearing his sisters' pink socks with Dora on them. I have to admit that while initially reluctant, ultimately I acquiesced to my son's demands. Sometimes giving in is just easier than taking on the battle!
While Brady can climb out of his crib, he is content to wait for mommy or daddy to retrieve him! Thank goodness!
He loves to play outside! One of his newest phrases, used often, is "pway outside!" It is so cute to hear toddler-speak!
Finally, Brady loves to eat! He eats just about everything, which don't get me wrong, I am not really complaining. It is a mothers dream to see your child enjoy raw vegetables, hummus, fruit, nuts, etc... However, it can be very scary when your child devours food, at times cramming his mouth with food. One might think the child never gets fed. Hopefully, someday soon, he will learn to savor every bite!
Love you boy!
My kids are one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. I try to remind myself each and every day to treasure my children and enjoy all the little moments we share. Thank-you Isabel, Chloe, and Brayden for the moments. I love you more than you'll ever know!
XOXOXOXOX0X0X0X
Mommy
She is READING! Mommy and daddy are so proud!! She reads to us every night. Her fluency and decoding skills have exploded in the last two months. We just had a conference with Mrs. Hopkins, Isabel's Kindergarten teacher. Isabel is doing very well in school. Areas the teacher would like to see improvement include listening and completing her seat work. The teacher expressed how hard Isabel works and that she is an absolute delight in the classroom. Very bright, kind, happy, and always respectful.
The teacher told us that Isabel gets along with all of her classmates. Recently, she found Isabel standing outside the bathroom holding all of her friends pencil cases. When she asked Isabel why she was doing this, Isabel replied so that her friends could use the bathroom and wash their hands. While very sweet, this was not acceptable to her teacher. Thank goodness Mrs. Hopkins seized the opportunity for a teachable moment and explained to all of the girls, including Isabel, that this sort of behavior was not being a good friend.
She loves to play outside - you can usually find her swinging from the monkey bars, digging for worms, climbing a tree, riding her scooter or bike, or looking for Pearse! She loves our neighbor!
Isabel always wants to have a playdate, not a day goes by when she doesn't ask to have a friend over. She is incredibly social. I need to make more of an effort to coordinate playdates for Isabel.
She loves to draw and write. Recently, without my knowing, Isabel wrote and gave out some invitations at school to her birthday party! Can't fault her enthusiasm! She is sooo excited to have a birthday!!! I had to explain that we need to make a list before giving out invitations and that it would not be possible to invite the entire class (there are 27 kids....Yikes!)
She loves to play dolls with her sister, Chloe! They have a beautiful relationship. It makes me so happy.
She loves to sing, dance and put on shows! Tonight, Isabel and Chloe, did a rendition of the alphabet song from the Letter Factory! Adorable!!
She loves reading. One of her favorite series is the Magic Tree House. It is astonishing how much she comprehends. She is so bright! Yes, I am biased, I am her mother! Although, I really don't believe I am.
Isabel is a determined little girl. She is currently working on learning to tie her shoes, trying to snap her fingers, and how to whistle. It is unbelievable how long and hard she will work to develop these new skills. No one will ever say she doesn't work hard...this girl has Perseverance with a capital P!
Currently, she is taking swim lessons at Malvern and working on her big arms and back stroke. I am really beginning to see her skills develop! She really wants to be on Mini-Team at St. Alban's! I routing for you sweetheart!
All about Clever Chloe
Chloe is an animal lover! She can't keep her hands off of our dog, Lexy. She is incredibly affectionate and loving to the dog. It is so sweet...she told me today that her favorite letter is "L" because it is the first letter in Lexy's name. It is not unusual for me to find Chloe having a conversation with the dog. She actually carries on both sides of the conversation.
Chloe is so charismatic. She loves school and her teacher, Mrs. Lewis. Chloe and her teacher share a passion, animals, but specifically horses. Chloe has so many clothes with horses....an umbrella, raincoat, jeans, corduroys, socks, underwear, hair bows, and many shirts. It is a rare day when Chloe is not wearing an outfit with horses.
She is very bright. She recognizes all of the capital and lowercase letters in the alphabet, letter sounds, and is beginning to read. We just started reading the Bob Books. Her sister, Isabel, is a wonderful role model. She is also good with numbers. I will never forget when Erin and I were at Rose Tree Park, Chloe was just 22 months, and we discovered that Chloe recognized most of the numbers and letters in a deck of playing cards.
Chloe has a wonderful imagination. She loves to play with her American girl doll, Sarah. She will change her dolls countless times and can play by herself for what seems like hours. Chloe also loves to play with groovy dolls, work on mosaics, play trains with her brother, put together puzzles, and of course, dress-up!!
She is gaining confidence in the swimming pool. She too is working on big arms and back stroke.
Chloe has a lot of fears. Today she said her daddy told her that it would be okay for her to just stay in bed if she gets sick until she gets better. She told me she didn't want to ever go to a hospital. This breaks my heart!
Babbling Brayden
Recently, Brayden and I started a mommy and me class together at Gymboree. It is a total delight watching him explore his surroundings at the play gym and participate in the class. He loves climbing, jumping, and sliding on the play structures, and of course, bubble and parachute time. Toddler Heaven!!
Brady is a momma's boy! He loves to be held and share a hug with me. Brady, mommy loves it too!
Surprisingly, Brady calls me "mommy!" It sounds so grown-up to me. At his age, Isabel called me "mom mom" and Chloe called me (and actually still does) "momma". Brady's language is rapidly developing. His vocabulary is incredible, learning lots of new words everyday. One of the funniest things he says is, "Shake your body!" It is hilarious.
Most recently he has developed a crush on the athletic, smart, helpful, fun-loving, Spanish-speaking Dora! He insists on wearing his sisters' pink socks with Dora on them. I have to admit that while initially reluctant, ultimately I acquiesced to my son's demands. Sometimes giving in is just easier than taking on the battle!
While Brady can climb out of his crib, he is content to wait for mommy or daddy to retrieve him! Thank goodness!
He loves to play outside! One of his newest phrases, used often, is "pway outside!" It is so cute to hear toddler-speak!
Finally, Brady loves to eat! He eats just about everything, which don't get me wrong, I am not really complaining. It is a mothers dream to see your child enjoy raw vegetables, hummus, fruit, nuts, etc... However, it can be very scary when your child devours food, at times cramming his mouth with food. One might think the child never gets fed. Hopefully, someday soon, he will learn to savor every bite!
Love you boy!
My kids are one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. I try to remind myself each and every day to treasure my children and enjoy all the little moments we share. Thank-you Isabel, Chloe, and Brayden for the moments. I love you more than you'll ever know!
XOXOXOXOX0X0X0X
Mommy
Monday, February 22, 2010
The Big Snow
2009/2010 has been an unbelievable winter. We have had 3 major snow storms this winter... 2 feet in December just a week before Christmas and then 2 feet mid-February and an additional 2 feet again just four days later. Lots of fun for the kids, not as much fun for daddy who spent the greater part of the day shoveling our driveway.
The girls slept over at Krissy's house this past weekend and went sledding in her backyard. Chloe came home with a shiner after crashing into the fence at the bottom of the hill. They had a great time with their cousins!
The girls slept over at Krissy's house this past weekend and went sledding in her backyard. Chloe came home with a shiner after crashing into the fence at the bottom of the hill. They had a great time with their cousins!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Brady's Morning Ritual
Each morning when Brady wakes up, he comes over to mommas side of the bed holding my glasses in one hand and a couple of board books in the other. He peers into my eyes and says, "Momma, here ya go. Here ya go, momma." With those spoken words, he opens up the pair of eye glasses and puts them in my hand. Then he grabs his books and says, "ba, ba" putting them securely in my hands. He is so funny. Andy and I laugh at this ritual each morning, it never gets old. Aside from being smart, he is so stinkin' cute!! Love you, Brady Boy!!
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