The Colton Family

Fun with Bammy

2011-02-19T06:25:00.000-08:00

Today, we went to the Swan Valley with Grammy Bammy. Swan Valley is famous for its wineries and is just thirty minutes outside of Perth. We sampled sweets at the chocolate factory, bought some grape juice at a non-alcoholic winery and had a yummy lunch on an equestrian estate.

Rocket Jump

2011-02-16T01:43:00.000-08:00

Big Rocket Jump

(Assisted by the reigning World Champion in Floor Exercise)

Castle Steps

2011-02-14T22:46:00.001-08:00

Last night, Maddie told the story of Samuel the Lamanite for Family Home Evening. When we asked Izzie what was going on in the picture, she said the men were climbing up the steps to the top of Jesus' castle. Interesting idea, eh?

Sticky Rice Sushi

2011-02-14T22:40:00.000-08:00

Today, Isabelle made sushi at school. When I asked her about how she made it, she only wanted to talk about the sticky rice. She made hers with carrots, cucumbers and corn. When we got home, she insisted on putting it on her fairy plate. It looks pretty but it is still sitting in the fridge. We will see if she actually gets around to eating it.

First Day of School: Pre Kindy

2011-02-08T01:01:00.000-08:00

Isabelle started school this week - just two mornings a week. She was excited about Beans - a cat that takes turns coming home with them - and painting. No tears or long goodbyes. She told her Mummy to go home, do her work and come back to get her later.

Twinkle Toes

2011-02-05T23:50:00.000-08:00

Isabelle saw the picture of her Sparkly Cucumbers on the blog and wanted to know where I had put the picture of her Twinkle Toes. So, here you have it. This is what you get when Mom goes into one store and Dad takes the two girls into a shoe store next door. Along with big smiles, Maddie came out with open toed, black heels with rhinestones and Izzie left with pink glittery shoes that light up. Lucky girls. (Mom never would have bought them!)

Summer Slide

2011-02-05T23:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we went to the best ward activity ever! A couple in the ward set up a really long slip n slide designed and made by the husband. Apparently, he spent years making and perfecting slides until he came up with this super cool creation.

Dad and the girls had lots of fun while Mom took the photos. Izzie was unstoppable. She would go down, hop right up and run back to the top of the hill to wait for her next turn. She wouldn't take a break and didn't stop smiling for hours!

Back to School: Year 2

2011-02-02T00:39:00.000-08:00

Maddie started school today. She is in Year 2. She is excited to see her old friends and get to know her new teacher, Tania. She is also happy to be one of the few students in Western Australia who doesn't have to wear a uniform to school everyday!

Sparkly Cucumbers

2011-02-02T00:32:00.000-08:00

While I was holding these pretty shoes, Izzie asked me, "What are you doing with my sparkly cucumbers?" Cucumbers. Converse. Same thing, right?

Australia Day

2011-01-30T06:02:00.000-08:00

January 26th is Australia Day. We tried to spend the day just like the Aussies. First, we went to the beach. Then, we went to Kings Park to have a picnic and watch the fireworks with friends. Izzie said the fireworks were just like the ones in Barbie and The Three Musketeers.

Play in the Park

2011-01-30T05:54:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, we went to a performance of Alice in Wonderland in Kings Park. Enjoy the photos of the girls with their favorite characters!

Science Day

2011-01-30T05:43:00.000-08:00

Scitech is a hands-on science museum for kids. Recently, we went for the first time with our favorite church friends. We met at 10:00 and finally managed to pull the kids away about 3:30. The girls had such a good time that Mom bought an annual pass. Izzie has big plans to go back soon for Toddlerfest.

Blue Water and Blue Sky

2011-01-30T05:37:00.000-08:00

Kangaroos and Koalas

2011-01-29T04:13:00.000-08:00

We spent the first weekend of the new year at Caversham Wildlife Park. We don't know if it was the heat or the relaxed Aussie lifestyle but most of the animals slept through our visit. We fed the kangaroos, took photos with the sleeping wombat and tried not to wake the koalas.

Christmas Part 2: Idaho

2011-01-29T04:07:00.000-08:00

Christmas Part 1: Utah

2011-01-29T03:36:00.000-08:00

Isabelle's Big Day

2011-01-29T03:25:00.000-08:00

We arrived in Utah just in time to celebrate Isabelle's birthday in Midway. The birthday girl enjoyed dinner and cake with aunts, uncles and cousins. We didn't think Isabelle would mind celebrating twice!

The Big Birthday Smile

The Little Mermaid Cake

The Chocoholic

Santa's Trip to Oz

2010-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

Maddie's Barbie House

Izzie's Dollhouse

Travelling at Christmas creates extra work for Santa Clause. He can't expect Mom and Dad to haul large gifts back home, so he makes special deliveries either before or after Christmas. This year, he came before Christmas to bring two special presents for Maddie and Izzie. Izzie said she loved her dollhouse but wanted to know why Santa forgot the sailboat and the fire truck!

Isabelle's Early Birthday

2010-12-11T23:12:00.000-08:00

Since we'll be away for Isabelle's birthday, we decided to have an early celebration at home.

Her first gift was a helmet. When she opened it up, she got a big smile on her face and asked, "Did you get me a bicycle?" She could hardly wait to find it! She found it in the garage, but before going for a ride, she ran to the playroom to get a baby doll.

After a bike ride to the playground, we headed to Hungry Jack's for dinner - her choice. When we got home from dinner, we had a little Wiggles party - her choice - with "pink sparkly cupcakes" - also her choice.

And just before bed, Izzie had to jam out on more time on her new guitar. Thanks, Grammy Bammy and Papa Ricky! We don't know where she learned her moves, but she knows how to rock!

We'll have to try and catch one of her acts on video!

Yellow Bear

2010-12-11T06:50:00.000-08:00

Maddie's school participates in an Edu-dance program where a dance teacher comes in once a week for a term and teaches each class a dance routine. Last week, Maddie performed her dance and dressed up as a super cute yellow bear. Her teacher helped them make their costumes and even let them paint their hands!

Maddie before the big show

Maddie and Liza

Mom was so impressed that Maddie smiled the entire time.

Camera in the Shop

2010-11-30T05:05:00.000-08:00

I had hoped to be better about blogging, but I'm having some technical difficulties.

On Luke's way home from London, he bought me a new camera in Singapore. He said he needed something to do on his layover at the airport. Go figure.

Anyway, the camera worked for a few weeks. Then, it wouldn't do anything but turn on and off. It's been in the shop for a week, and it still hasn't had an assessment. So, I'm hoping someone will hurry up, figure out what's wrong, order some parts and fix my camera ASAP.

It's a horrible time to be camera-less. It's the end of the school year and Christmas. Not to mention, it's been beautiful at the beach!

So anyway, we're still here.

Hopefully, we'll have new pics sooner than later!

Hot, Hot, Hot...

2010-11-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

I don't mean to brag, but I took the girls to the beach after school. It was 99 degrees today - a little hot for spring. I think we're going to enjoy living so close to the beach!

Mermaid

2010-11-03T07:10:00.000-07:00

When I asked Izzie how mermaids do their hair, she replied, "They comb it with a fork!"

Dorothy

2010-11-03T07:08:00.000-07:00

Sports Carnival

2010-11-03T06:57:00.000-07:00

Maddie's First School Sports Carnival

Maddie and Liza

Maddie trying to teach Izzie how to throw a frisbee.

Maddie jumping over hurdles.

Maddie trying to help her team win tug of war.

Maddie did especially well at the gymnastics station!

Around The World in a Term

2010-11-03T06:38:00.000-07:00

Maddie is in her fourth and last term of the school year. Each week, she has been "travelling" to and learning about a new country. She started in India, went to Egypt and headed to France. She has been excited to share things from all of these places with her class. Even though she hasn't been to India, she had lots of neat clothes to take to school - thanks to Fancy Nancy's shopping tours of Little India.

For a recent school assembly, Maddie was chosen to be a French girl and said something about seeing the Eiffel Tower from her bedroom window. It seemed like the perfect part for a girl with a truly French name.

Maddie put this outfit together herself. She was a little concerned that she didn't have a striped shirt to complete her outfit, but she managed to get by without it. Her class was very impressed with her sense of French style. Maddie looked "tres belle" if you ask her Mom!

Fashion Queen

2010-10-10T04:25:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, Maddie has always been a little obsessed with fashion. This week, she's been talking about buying a sewing machine and making clothes. I wish I would have learned to sew, or at least, brought my sewing machine with me. It's sitting in storage in the States. A lot of good it's doing there! I guess I'll have to find her a sewing class so someone who knows what they are doing can teach her to sew properly.

Until she can start sewing, Maddie has decided to sketch her designs. Today, she insisted that she go out on the front porch because she needed inspiration from the great outdoors. Here are her most recent sketches:

Next, she will start work on her shoe designs.

Maddie has big plans to design, make and model her own fashions.

(If any of you noticed, Maddie really is wearing her jacket. Yesterday, we were at the beach soaking up the rays. Today, we were at home chilled by the wind and rain. Hopefully, we'll have our sun and blue skies back tomorrow.)

While the dad is away, the girls will play...

2010-10-09T05:11:00.005-07:00

A few days after we got back from Sydney, we headed back to the airport with Dad. Duty called. He had to go to Monacry, Guinea and London. Work, work, work.... and a little retail therapy. We were naughty and gave him a list of things to buy for us in London.

Since Maddie is still on break, we've had lots of fun while Dad has been away.

We went to an indoor pool with a water playground, had dinner with friends, learned to make jam, played at the park, watched the new Barbie and Tinkerbell movies, got new sandals, and had sleepovers in Mom's bed.

Mom is questioning her decision to let Maddie sleep in her bed.

We went to Strawberry Fields with friends to pick strawberries.

We went to our favorite beach which is a quick seven minute drive from the house.

We don't have much of a garden - just a little grass in front and a patio in back. The girls like to hang out on the back terrace but haven't had much to occupy them. We fixed that by buying paintbrushes and filling buckets of water.

Mom is worried that Izzie will be sad when Maddie has to go back to school. Lucky for us, we will finally get our long awaited summer vacation in two months and will have six weeks to spend together!

Girls Day Out

2010-10-09T05:11:00.003-07:00

Just down the street from our house are the Claremont Showgrounds - home to the annual Royal Perth Show. It's like a state fair with all the excitement of pony rides, ferris wheels, animals, food, and shows. Dad had to work, so Mom took the girls out for the day.

First stop, teacups. Izzie was so excited to start spinning in her pink teacup. Look at her big smile!

The girls were anxious to milk the cows. They were a little concerned that their buckets were full of water instead of milk. If they wouldn't have run out of water, we would have been there all day.

Maddie asked me to take this photo so Hailey could see that she knows how to milk a cow, too.

The girls spent a lot of time cuddling the soft baby chicks.

The girls got to "pat a pig".

Izzie couldn't stop giggling while they fed the baby goat.

Maddie loved holding the bunnies.

After visiting the animals, we took a break and went to see some shows. This show was called "Dancing Ducks" - a fashion show for ducks. The children found it entertaining and the adults found it extremely disturbing. Maddie wanted me to take photos of the ducks in all their outfits.

Hold on Tight - an action shot of Izzie's first roller coaster ride!

Not a great photo, but look at Izzie. You've got to love that her eyes are closed as they fly around the bend!

The girls both love carousel rides.

Izzie will tell you that she saw "a sheep getting a haircut". We also saw BMX racers doing flips on ramps, a dog that did amazing tricks, and a log cutting contest. We'll definitely be going back next year, but we'll be taking Dad.

Sydney

2010-10-09T05:11:00.001-07:00

During the first week of Maddie's school holidays, we went to Sydney the Harbour City. Sydney really has the most beautiful harbour in the world. We went on ferry rides, saw the sights, hit the beach, shopped, got up close and personal with a few birds and enjoyed the beautiful spring weather. We loved Sydney. If we can ever convince any of you to come visit us, we'll definitely recommend that you make a stop in Sydney.

Sydney Opera House

Izzie will tell you that this is where you find the "singing ladies". We did not hear any amazing voices, but we saw the stages and concert halls where the "singing ladies" perform their musical magic. We're hoping to make it back when the girls are older so we can all enjoy a performance.

Taronga Zoo

We took a fun journey by ferry (with this view of the Opera House) and by Sky Safari to get to the zoo.

Koalas

Dragon

Giraffes with a Harbour View

Kissing Tasmanian Devils

Some Pretty Darn Cute Animals

These friendly birds cleaned our plates after lunch. They politely waited for us to finish but couldn't wait until we stood up and walked away from the table.

You can't go wrong with free face painting. It may not be fancy but it made one zebra and one butterfly very happy for the rest of the afternoon.

A vacation isn't complete without an ice cream in the afternoon.

Harbour Bridge

Darling Harbour - The Chinese Gardens

Maddie hates snakes, and now, lizards. After seeing this lovely creature, she couldn't wait to get out of the gardens.

Royal Botanic Gardens

This fine feathered friend parked on Izzie's stroller while she was in it having a nap.

Bondi Beach

One of Australia's Most Famous and the World's Most Well Known Beaches

We saw the lifesavers in their goofy hats and swam between the yellow and red flags.

Beach Bums

We didn't have buckets and shovels, but we had lots of princesses and fairies.

Manly Beach

Izzie took her first carousel ride without Mom or Dad.

We did some silly things, too. We stopped at Krispy Kreme for donuts and 7-11 for Slurpees - treats we can't get in Perth!

The Eternal City

2010-09-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

Our last European vacation (at least for a couple years) was also our first (but definitely not our last) Roman holiday. We made the pilgrimage last March, and I really should have posted the pictures before now.

Our most memorable moments:

10. Walking through ancient history at Roman Forum.

9. Dusk at the top of the Spanish Steps.

8. Shopping for shoes on Via dei Condotti (also the most expensive part of the trip).

7. The most expensive carriage ride ever (though the sites we passed were spectacular).

6. Searching for the best italian gelato, pasta and pizza.

5. St. Peter's Basilica and Vatican City (especially the view - both looking outwards to the city and looking downwards into the Basilica - from the dome).

4. La Pietà by Michelangelo.

3. Trevi fountain by moonlight.

2. Colosseum by moonlight.

1. That moment of complete captivation when you realise you could never get enough and will have to keep coming back in order to feed your habit (thank goodness for a good job working for a company headquartered in Europe).

The pictures (from left to right; top to bottom):

- Maddie and Izzie dancing in a piazza near Pantheon.

- Izzie enjoying a beverage at dinner.

- 3 pictures of Maddie and Izzie at Roman Forum.

- Maddie posing at Trevi Fountain.

- View of Via dei Condotti from Spanish Steps.

- 2 Pictures of my girls during carriage ride.

- Maddie at Roman Forum and St Peter's Basilica (below pictures of carriage ride).

- Maddie from our rooftop hotel restaurant at breakfast (view of Roman Forum).

- Maddie and Izzie eating gelato on roof of St Peter's Basilica (underneath picture of Maddie at breakfast).

- Ally's newest boyfriend (preparing for some photo shoot near Pantheon - check out the clips on the back of his suit jacket).

- Maddie making a wish and throwing her coin into Trevi Fountain.

- Izzie eating gelato.

- My girls at Colosseum.

The Eternal City (the Pictures)

2010-09-18T23:27:00.000-07:00

Wine, Waves & Happy Birthday to Maddie (the Video)

2010-07-18T01:54:00.000-07:00

Wine, Waves & Happy Birthday to Maddie

2010-07-18T00:05:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile, and we apologise for our long absence. I could blame it on moving and adjusting to Perth, and this would be partially the truth. The rest of the truth is that Ally and I have been in a blogging face-off that, as is now apparent from this post, Ally won.

As such, it falls to me to write our first post from Oz (please note the Dorothy costume and the 'Over the Rainbow' photo included in the slideshow above).

There are many things about Perth we love...the city is big enough and has most anything we could want or need, the beaches and other scenery is beautiful (as you'll also note above) and the people are friendly...but I think we're still adjusting from life in London (the center of just about everything) to life in a place that is (perhaps a bit eerily) both remote and cosmopolitan. Please don't think we're complaining (we do like it here), it's just that Perth feels a long way from everything.

Anyway, Maddie turned seven this week, and Rick and Vanalee have been here to help us celebrate. The following pictures cover the period from Bammy's arrival (Papa Ricky arrived a few days later) through yesterday, and include Maddie's birthday (presents, cake, dorothy costume and lunch at the beach), our long weekend in Margaret River (the Napa Valley of WA; but, don't worry, we stuck to the non-alcoholic stuff) and Mandurah (where Nana served her mission) and a few other miscellaneous photos.

Enjoy! We'll try to be better about posting more regularly, and (if I can get Ally to help me) we also need to find time to post our recent trip to Rome and a few other odds and ends.

Eternal London Haunts Us Still

2010-01-30T02:37:00.000-08:00

'Go where we may - rest where we will, Eternal London haunts us still' (Thomas Moore).

I think if you've really experienced London, you'll understand Moore's word choice. I'm sure the locals would say I haven't lived here long enough to really understand, and they're probably right - but I understand a little.

'America is my country and Paris is my hometown' (Gertrude Stein). This I understand, as I've felt similarly about London ... I think part of me always will.

We're moving again (and it feels like it will really happen this time) ... to Perth, Australia. What I've already experienced of Australia (and Australians) makes me excited to start our new adventure, even though I'm not fully resigned to ending our current one.

Please come visit - I think we'll have plenty of space, and the scenery is beautiful.

I found a few quotes about Australia, Australians or by Australians, which I like:

'The true Aussie battler and his wife thrust doggedly onwards: starting again, failing again, implacably thrusting towards success. For success, even if it is only the success of knowing that one has tried to the utmost and never surrendered, is the target of every battler' (Michael Page & Robert Inapen).

'Those who lose dreaming are lost' (Australian Aboriginal proverb).

'If you go out for a big night and by some misadventure you end up in a prison cell, you can count on your best friend to bail you out, but your best mate will be in there besides you' (Australian observation)

'The cricket bat is mightier than the pen and the sword combined' (anon).

'A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour' (anon).

'Before you criticise someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticise them, you're a mile away and have their shoes' (anon).

'They who came here in chains, who were lashed while they worked in convict gangs at Port Arthur. They who like many others were driven through starvation or oppression from their home-lands to the shores of this new country, Australia. They, who for a multitude of reasons that hopefully, I or my children will never witness or experience, decided not to harbour grudges or discontent but rather to look to the future. They who embraced this country as their own and said; let's get on with it, this is a new land, this is our home' (Dennis O'Keeffe - Musician).

'It is a mistake to think you can't be hurt if you don't care' (Errol Flynn).

'Australians are, I have found, ready to laugh at themselves if they think that the joke is funny and the humour not ill-directed. And the ability to be self-deprecating is the mark of confidence; it is, as much as anything else, the yardstick by which a society measures how tolerant and self-assured it is' (Soumya Bhattacharya).

'Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia' (Charles M Schultz).

Chubby Ears

2009-11-08T06:41:00.000-08:00

Just a photo so Dad can see Izzie enjoying her new chubby ears for the first time. They're a little big, but she'll grow into them!

Two Little Pumpkins

2009-11-06T13:51:00.000-08:00

Maddie was 27 months old.

Izzie is 22 months old.

It is hard to believe that they grow up so fast.

Minnie Mouse and Happy Face Pumpkin

2009-11-06T12:22:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, we don't have very many great photos from Halloween. Instead of snapping photos, I found myself wrestling Isabelle, hosting a party, and trying to keep up with Madeleine. I'm having regrets that I don't have better photos. Better luck next year, and hopefully, a new camera!

Friday, Maddie had a party and parade at school. We got to the school just in time to help Maddie change into her costume. Then, Maddie marched and danced in the Lower School Halloween Parade - one of my favorite events at ASL.

As much as Izzie loves a happy face pumpkin, she was not thrilled about wearing her costume. Here she is, partially buckled in, on our way to the parade.

Maddie didn't have much time to pose for photos. She was too busy running around with her friends.

Maddie and Shir (Gabriella)

Maddie wanting to show off her Minnie Mouse hands.

Maddie and Sally (Thumbelina)

While Maddie was getting ready, Izzie was keeping busy in the Lego corner.

Saturday, we had a small Halloween Party. Maddie decided to invite her church friends, Annabelle, Colette, and Madeleine along with their families. We also invited our neighbors, Eric, Shannon, and Camille. We ate, played games, and went trick or treating together.

Camille, Shannon and Maddie

I knew Izzie wasn't going to be excited about wearing her costume, so I thought I'd wait until we went trick or treating to put the pumpkin part on her. During the party, she insisted on wearing her favorite Tumble Tots t-shirt and tolerated the black, fleece part of her costume. When it was time to go trick or treating, Dad decided not to torture her and let her head out the door sans pumpkin. I never had a chance to try again. Needless to say, Izzie was a little under dressed for trick or treating. She didn't seem to mind considering what she had on underneath her costume. She kept undoing the fleece in the front and showing people her t-shirt. Classy, huh?

Izzie would occasionally get out of the stroller to trick or treat, but for most of the night, was perfectly content to ride around and eat lollies.

By the time we got home, Maddie was exhausted. She and her friends had raced from house to house collecting candy.

Maddie wasn't the only tired one. Our Dad travelled over 50 hours to spend 36 hours with us at home. We were glad he was here for Halloween, but we'll be even happier when he finishes his work in Australia.

Pumpkin Day

2009-10-29T06:21:00.000-07:00

Maddie gets out of school early on Wednesdays, so we took advantage of the extra hour and carved pumpkins. Maddie and Izzie each had their own pumpkin and designed their own "happy face" as Izzie calls it. She gets really excited about pumpkins with "happy faces". Good thing since she'll look like one soon!

Maddie went a little crazy with the Sharpie and was drawing eyelashes, etc.

Izzie didn't want to pose for a picture with her pumpkin. I'll try again later.

October Break in York

2009-10-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

Luke made it back from Melbourne just in time for October Break. He wasn't thrilled about the idea of getting on another plane so we took the train to York for a long weekend. As much as we enjoyed York, we really enjoyed spending time with our Dad.

First stop, York Minster.

Second stop, the Shambles.

Next, Clifford's Tower.

Cute smiles at the York Castle Museum

Playing in a viking ship at the Yorkshire Museum

Last stop, Betty's - a famous tea room.

One Word...

2009-10-23T14:19:00.000-07:00

... MASCARA.

Zoo Day

2009-10-23T14:10:00.000-07:00

Before Charlie started school, he and his mom, Katy, invited us to go to the zoo with them. As much as Izzie and Charlie enjoyed seeing the animals, they really loved riding the carousel!

Shopping with Fancy Nancy, Again!

2009-10-23T14:03:00.000-07:00

Our good friend, Nancy, recently moved back to the States. Before she left, Nancy and Maddie planned their second annual shopping trip to Little India. Maddie came home with new clothes, bindis, and bangles. Even Izzie got some little bangles, too!

Maddie's Trip to the Palace

2009-10-23T13:56:00.001-07:00

Every summer while the Queen is on holiday in Scotland, they open the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace to visitors. Since Luke was in Australia on business, we had an extra ticket and invited our favorite neighbor, Shannon, to go with us. Maddie was extremely disappointed that the Queen wasn't there to receive her. Maybe next time!

Izzie and Trevie

2009-10-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

Just a cute photo of Izzie and her friend, Trevie. They made tables out of baskets and had a snack while they watched a cartoon. They always look forward to spending time together!

Priorities - Pasta, Pool & Pizza

2009-10-23T12:33:00.000-07:00

Considering the fact that I haven't looked good in a swimsuit since I was four, I find it ironic that I am such a big fan of beach holidays.

We wake up, we eat breakfast, we hit the pool or the beach, we eat lunch, we relax in the warm sun and have ice cream, we bathe, we eat dinner, and finally, we sleep! Occasionally, we take a morning to explore or do a little sightseeing, but by afternoon, we're back in our swimsuits.

In August, we went to the Emerald Coast in Sardinia for a few days. We had some serious priorities - pasta, pool and pizza. We did, however, find some time to go to Porto Cervo and see where the rich and famous park their yachts.

Maddie's "This is Me" Pose

Izzie loving every minute

Maddie's sand castle and beach pose

Izzie playing on the life guard boat

Yet another glamour girl pose

Izzie modeling the latest fashion

Porto Cervo

Marina in Porto Cervo

Expensive boutiques in Porto Cervo, including Kristina T

(a special photo for Aunt Kristina)

Minty Fresh Belly Button

2009-09-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist telling everyone that I caught Izzie brushing her belly button with her toothbrush this morning.

Back to School

2009-09-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

Today, Maddie went back to school. Her teachers are Miss vanderMollen (Miss V) and Vicky.

Ever since school got out, she's been wanting a monogrammed backpack for the new school year. It arrived yesterday while we were at orientation - perfect timing. We have Grammy Bammy to thank for its timely arrival.

Maddie didn't want to take this first picture - note the enthusiasm. She only wanted her picture taken from the back so you could see her new backpack.

And there's the smile and the new backpack.

Izzie and I were a little lonely, today. We tidied up the closets, tried to catch up on laundry, and ran a couple of errands. Poor Izzie - Maddie had way more fun than she did, today!

Battle Wound

2009-08-21T13:28:00.000-07:00

Lately, I feel like my posts are all about Isabelle's injuries. Poor Izzie. Today, I must add yet another one to the list. I'm hoping, praying really, that it will be the last one for a long time.

This morning, Isabelle fell and sliced open the top of her eyelid. I was able to page her pediatrician and meet him at his office before he did rounds at the hospital. Luckily, he was able to close the cut with some steri-strips and has little concerns about scarring. The real challenge is to keep Isabelle from touching them or getting them wet. We'll be going back to the doctor in a few days so he can look at it again.

On our way out, a young lady in the lift looked at Izzie and asked her which war she'd been fighting in. Good question. I hope the war ends soon.

The Secret Garden

2009-08-19T09:58:00.000-07:00

This summer, Maddie and I read "The Secret Garden". We watched the movie, and then, we set off to find two secret gardens that are close to home.

First, we went to Hampstead Heath. The secret garden is usually closed to the public but was open for a special day. We went with our neighbor, Shannon, and her six month old baby, Camille. Maddie was able to find some creatures in the pond, make a badge, and spend time with church friends.

Maddie with her net

Maddie with Shannon

Maddie with friends - Ethan, Parker and Sawyer

Next, we went to Regents Park. Although it is always open to the public, the secret garden is not on maps and is easily missed by most visitors. It is a well manicured garden with flowers, fountains, and benches. The girls could have stayed all day. We'll be going back to show Dad.

Maddie at the "secret" entrance

The Garden Lock

Isabelle taking a break while Maddie took photos of flowers

Maddie took this photo of what she calls "flowers that look like snowflakes"

Isabelle playing and having fun

Maddie posing for her garden photo shoot

Would you like a plait in your hair?

2009-08-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

Summer has been hard on Maddie's hair. She was in desperate need of a trim. She always tells me to make sure they cut it "long". She loves her long hair. After going to the National Army Museum, we stopped by Trotter's on Kings Road. During her haircut, Maddie looked at a fairy tale book and watched the fish in the aquarium. Then, she had a blow dry with flipped ends, a braid and a new sparkly pink hair accessory. When the hairdresser asked Maddie if she wanted a plait, I had to translate - a braid as they call it here. To top it off, Maddie got some Smarties. Needless to say, you would have thought she spent the day at the spa. She is one very happy girl, insisted on taking photos and can hardly wait to show her Dad when he gets home from work tonight.

Cat Fight

2009-08-16T12:52:00.000-07:00

Izzie looks like she got in a cat fight over the weekend. On Saturday, she walked most of the way home from the High Street and up St Johns Wood Park - a great accomplishment for her two short legs. I should add that the walk was her idea not ours. Half way home, she fell on the pavement. She has a scratch under her nose and another above her pretty, fat lip. Since the fall, she has also put in two scratches by her eye with her fingernails. The fingernails have been trimmed, and hopefully, the rest of her cute little face will heal quickly!

And on a happier note, Izzie stayed in nursery all by herself today. Her teachers said she was "cheerful" and "confident" for the full two hours. When Luke found us after church, he asked Izzie if she had gone to nursery. She said, "Yes." Then, he asked if she had stayed in nursery all by herself. She said proudly, "Yes." She's such a good girl!

And we thought we were just going to see Peter Pan...

2009-08-15T11:53:00.000-07:00

Today, Kerryn and I took Maddie to see "Peter Pan" in Kensington Gardens. I wish I could tell you all about it, but I'd never do it justice. My favorite part was when Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Wendy, John, and Michael fly over London on their way to Neverland. All I can say is that if you get the chance, go see it. It is an amazing production!

It was based on the book and not the Disney movie, so I learned something new. "The Lost Boys" were the ones who fell out of their prams in Kensington Gardens - the unfortunate boys whose nannies lost them in the park. When school starts, Maddie and I are going to check the book out at the library and read a chapter every night. I don't know who will enjoy it more - me or Maddie.

Here are a few pictures from our day out. The last picture was almost as exciting as the show!

Maddie and Mom

Maddie and Kerryn

Jack Black

During intermission, we headed to the bar to get drinks - just Diet Coke and apple juice. While we were standing in the queue, I saw a guy walk by with a young boy on his shoulders. I looked at Kerryn, Kerryn looked at me, and we both watched Jack Black head across the room. After we got our drinks and ice cream, we headed around back to see if we could spot him. Kerryn wins the prize for taking this photo of Jack. We found him chatting away on his mobile. Honestly, it was as if we were the only people there who recognized him. He went completely unnoticed until after the show. While he waited for his black, Mercedes people mover on Bayswater Road and the boy (His son? I don't know.) made a substantial amount of noise, Jack received a lot more attention.

So, now you know - Jack Black and Peter Pan are both in London.

It's all fun and games...

2009-07-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

... until someone gets hurt.

When we woke up this morning, the sun was shining - a pleasant surprise. So, we headed to Parliament Hill up at Hampstead Heath to "ride the slide" as Isabelle calls it, play in the sandpit, and splash in the paddling pool. It was a great idea until Isabelle hurt her foot going down the slide with Maddie. Once we realized she couldn't put any weight on her left foot, we headed up the road to the hospital where we spent two hours seeing doctors and getting x-rays. Nothing is broken. The doctor's orders were to to give it a couple of days, hope for the best, and keep her on ibuprofen. Hopefully, she'll be up and running soon. For now, she's crawling and crying a lot out of frustration. Isabelle's daily routine consists of being busy and running around which is hard to do when you can't get up on your two little feet! We'll be sure to keep you posted on her recovery.

Here are a few photos of what started out to be the perfect summer day in London!

Old Friends

2009-07-24T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we met up with some old friends at the park. We had to say goodbye to some of our best friends -MaryBeth, Stephanie, Michelle, and Christine. At the moment, Switzerland isn't too far away. We just need to plan a trip before we leave England.

Michelle and Maddie

MaryBeth and Mom

Cala, Eli, and Benjamin with Maddie

Lucky for us, we still have a few friends left in London!

Playmobil Wedding

2009-07-24T05:47:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, Santa Claus introduced Maddie to the world of Playmobil with a large, pink castle. She's been playing with it ever since and has added a few small sets to her collection. For her birthday, she got the new wedding set. She loves the church (which she calls the temple), the reception tent, and the "Just Married" car (not shown). She's had lots of time to play with it since the weather has been miserable - wet, cold, and windy. Hopefully, the sun will come out soon so she can try out her other birthday present - a new, bigger scooter!

I Love Paris in the Springtime

2009-07-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

After posting about our summer vacation and watching the Tour de France with Luke, I realized that I never posted pictures of our spring holiday in Paris. It's probably because as soon as we got back, we were supposed to pack up and move. We didn't move, but we got busy undoing the move, finishing the school year, and heading to the States. So, better late than never! Here are the pictures from Paris.

Le Tour Eiffel

Maddie on the Bateaux Mouches

View of the Arc de Triomphe from the Eiffel Tower

Luke and Maddie

Izzie's view from the Eiffel Tower

View of Les Invalides from the Eiffel Tower

Le Jardin du Luxembourg
(the perfect place for the perfect, Parisian afternoon avec les enfants)

I loved all these pictures and couldn't pick just one of Maddie and the boats.

Maddie going for a pony ride

(maybe next time Izzie - when you're a little bigger)

The Playground

The Louvre

(Too much fun for little ones - Maddie lost interest after she found the Mona Lisa.)

The Pyramid outside the Louvre

Izzie cooling off at the Louvre

Ally and the girls at the Tuileries

A double decker carousel at Sacre Coeur

Maddie and Izzie at Disneyland Paris on It's a Small World

(It's Izzie's favorite ride. She also loved Mickey Mouse in the parade.)

The Family with Goofy

I promise that I will have Luke resume the holiday posts so you get the full itinerary and commentary. I'm not as eloquent as Luke so all I can say is that I absolutely love Paris!

Summer Vacation

2009-07-21T08:30:00.001-07:00

After Maddie got out of school, we headed to Utah. We were able to spend lots of time with grandparents, cousins, and old friends. We were there for three weeks. (Well, Luke was only there for two. He had to make a quick trip to Melbourne, Australia in the middle of our vacation.) While we were there, we were able to spend lots of time at pools and waterparks which is something we don't get to do in the summer in England. We definitely enjoyed the warm, sunny weather. It actually felt like summer in Utah! Here are some pictures from our summer vacation.

Maddie and Izzie with Aunt Stacey and Uncle Alex

The girls with Nana

The girls at Nana's

Izzie and Emily - eating instead of splashing - at Thanksgiving Point

Maddie and McKay being silly

Maddie and McKay being a little more serious

Maddie and Presley at the pool

Maddie and Presley at the park

Maddie with Zaky and Presley at Cowabunga Bay

Maddie and Izzie taking Nana's wheelchair for a test drive

Izzie climbing in the tub with Maddie after she'd had a bath and gotten into her pajamas

Luke with Grandma Cokie and Papa Scott

Hailey and Maddie

Izzie with Aunt Alta

Maddie with Carter

Izzie's first trip to Cafe Rio

Maddie going for a drive

Maddie and cousins at Fiesta Fun

TinkerBell Party

2009-07-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

Maddie had a Tinkerbell party to celebrate her birthday with a few special friends.

The Birthday Girl

Yummy cupcakes from The Hummingbird Bakery Cookbook

(See Grammy Bammy's blog.)

TinkerBell

Sitting/Flying TinkerBell

TinkerBell blowing out the candle

Maddie and her friends had lots of fun having fairy makeovers complete with pixie dust, wings and wands, playing games, and eating cupcakes, ice cream and chocolate covered strawberries.

Maddie is her mother's daughter and has already begun planning her next birthday party!

Are you six? STOP!

2009-07-14T13:52:00.001-07:00

Madeleine is finally six. It seems like this birthday has taken longer than any of the others. She has been waiting for months. She woke up early to open presents, played and did face paint at Summer Camp, and went to Byron's for mini burgers. She finished off her busy day with cake and ice cream. Now, she's asking how long it'll take until she's seven. We tell her that it will take a year. Maddie says that's just too long!

Feathers are Forever

2009-06-12T12:48:00.000-07:00

This year, Maddie's class did a special project called "Beautiful Stuff". Basically, they learned that rubbish/junk can be beautiful. They collected, sorted, and created masterpieces. For their show at the end of the year, they continued with their theme. Their were bottletops, feathers, jewels, and ribbons. Maddie had told Melanie that she wanted to be a feather. After missing two days of school while we were in Paris, Maddie discovered she could have been a jewel. It was too late to change - she was devastated. We convinced her that being a feather was a real honor and promised to download "Diamonds are Forever" to her iPod - the jewels' theme song. Let's just say that she was the best feather ever!

After the show, Maddie at the class brunch with special guest, Grammy Bammy.

Mary Ann Comes to Visit

2009-06-12T12:13:00.000-07:00

Mary Ann came to visit on her way home from Poland. Isabelle enjoyed reading books with Mary Ann and Maddie showed Mary Ann how to make candy sushi. We had a great time!

Last Day of School

2009-06-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

Maddie with Jackie (Teacher)

Maddie with Lynn (Teacher) and Melanie (Art, Music and Movement and Italian Teacher)

Ms. Matey (PE Teacher)

Celebrating with Cupcakes

Hummingbird Bakery recipe made with Grammy Bammy

Izzie on Wheels

2009-06-12T00:06:00.000-07:00

In London, kids don't ride bikes as often as they do scooters because they can scoot in and out of the shops and on and off the buses. Maddie has been giving Izzie scooter lessons in the flat. Yesterday, Maddie decided to take her scooter out but graciously let Izzie have a go up Finchley Road. The people on the street couldn't believe this little thing on wheels. Enjoy the pics and the video!

P.S. Don't tell Maddie but she's getting a new scooter for her birthday. She's really outgrown this one, and I thought I'd put away until Izzie was bigger. Instead, I think I'll be keeping it out and buying Izzie a helmet.

Apology Necessary

2009-06-11T23:58:00.001-07:00

I am so behind on posts. I'm sorry. It's been crazy around here with moving, saying goodbye, not moving, finishing the school year, visiting with Grammy Bammy and getting ready for our trip to the States.

Hopefully, you all know that we're not moving to Utah after all. Just days before the movers were going to pack us up, Luke's boss changed his mind. He decided to keep Luke here to work on a new project. We'll be here at least through the end of the year.

I'm hoping to do some blogging over the next few days so keep checking for new posts.

What we thought was our final goodbye - Maddie with Levi (left) and Cora (right).

Special Post for Cicely

2009-05-06T07:23:00.001-07:00

We just wanted Cicely to know that David Archuleta sat behind us in church on Sunday!

Canal Cruise

2009-05-03T06:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we went on a canal cruise from Little Venice to Camden with our friend, Pam. Here are a few pictures from the excursion.

Isabelle had a hard time keeping her head, hands, and feet inside the boat at all times. For most of the cruise, her head and hands were hanging outstide. She loved waving and saying "hi" to the people and dogs walking along the canal. She's just too cute sometimes.

Bellydancer and Bollywood Beauty

2009-05-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

While we were in Egypt, Maddie had to have a belly dancer scarf. She had a teacher at nursery school who was married to an Egyptian and would bring in belly dancer scarves and music for the kids. At pickup, we'd find them shaking their hips and having the time of their lives. They loved it! As Maddie wore her sash around Naama Bay, the men would call out, "Shakira". It was hilarious. Now that we're home, we realize that we should have bought one for Izzie, too.

Maddie also loves all things Indian - saris, bindis, bangles, and Bollywood films. Before we went to Egypt, Fancy Nancy took us on a fun filled outing to Little India. Last Sunday, Maddie decided to wear her sari sans pants to church.

She is so proud of her "high heels" and requested a special photo.

Fancy Nancy even found fingernail polish to match the outfit.

The beaded handbag that Fancy Nancy bought her.

The special hair clip that Fancy Nancy found to match everything.

Over the last few years, Maddie has enjoyed buying "traditional" clothes from lots of different countries. Izzie is a lucky girl to inherit them all!

Bittersweet

2009-04-16T22:51:00.000-07:00

The news is pretty bittersweet. We just found out that we're moving back to Salt Lake City in June. We love London and would stay forever. Although we're sad to leave, we're really excited about the position they found for Luke. It'll be really great for him!

Once we find a house and get settled, we'd love to have you come visit us! We'll be missing you...

Petits Filous

2009-04-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

When it comes to letting my kids be independent, I have issues - especially when they're learning to feed themselves. It usually means a lot of fun for them and a big mess for me. When Maddie was two, I was still feeding her yogurt. I couldn't handle the mess. My mom laughs at me now because I've been letting Izzie feed herself yogurt for months. I still don't like the mess, but I tell myself I'm being a better mom. However, after today's episode, I've decided that I'll feed her yogurt until she's five.

Hello, Easter Bunny!

2009-04-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

Easter was pretty uneventful considering we got home at 2:30 in the morning. The Easter Bunny came, and as expected, the girls were very happy. They got candy, DVDs, and a new table and chairs for the playroom. We didn't get many pics but here is a cute one of Maddie. She got a little creative with the Easter presents from Grandma Cokie and Papa Scott.

Beach Holiday 2009 - Egypt

2009-04-12T09:37:00.001-07:00

We spent the first week of Spring Break with Ally's parents in Egypt. Everyday was wonderful; here's a quick summary of the week:

April 5 - Lounging about the resort's pools. Papa Ricky & Bammy arrive in evening.

April 6 - Lounging on the beach at the Red Sea. Luke does a short test dive, but Ally chickens out at the last minute.

April 7 - Lounging about the resort's pools. Spend the evening at Naama Bay (eat at Hard Rock Cafe, partly in Alex's honor but mostly because we knew we could eat the food and not get sick).

April 8 - Happy b-day to Ally! Luke & Ally travel to Cairo for Giza Pyramids; Sphinx; Egyptian Museum, including King Tut's treasures and 2,000 - 3,000 year old mummies; and bargaining for "treasures" of our own in local markets.

April 9 - Excursion to Mt Sinai and Dahab. Celebrate Ally's b-day in the evening with a very unique cake.

April 10 - More lounging about the resort's pools. Say goodbye to Papa Ricky and Bammy in late afternoon.

April 11 - Still more lounging about the resort's pools. It may seem at this point like we did a lot of pool side relaxing, but trust me when I say we loved every minute.

April 12 - Back in London flat by 2:30 a.m. Izzie awake by 6:30 a.m. It's now 6:00 p.m.; the skies are overcast and the temperature is chilly. Luke, Ally and Maddie have been awake all day and wishing they were back in Egypt.

I know I've included way too many pictures, but check out the following slide show of our adventures.

Obama at ASL

2009-03-31T07:20:00.000-07:00

Before the weekend, we noticed Parking Suspension signs on the streets surrounding ASL. Yesterday, the Met Police put up their yellow cones along the streets as well. Rumour on the playground was that Obama was coming to ASL today. Some people said he was coming to speak to the students during the day, and some said he was coming to speak to embassy employees in the late evening.

Yesterday on the way home from school, Maddie was asking about the yellow cones. I explained that someone important was coming to ASL. She asked who and I told her Obama. She said, "I know who he is. We talked about him when he first was new." We talked about why the parking was suspended and why some important people need police and security with them. I commented that it was probably a good thing they already had security at her school, and Maddie added, "And a Lost and Found."

This morning, we were informed by friends that Obama wasn't landing until 19:45 so we knew Maddie wouldn't get to see him. Too bad. After school, the streets had been cleared and the police dogs were sniffing around the school. I guess we'll get the details about his visit from our embassy friends tomorrow.

Maddie and I are going to check the Lost and Found in the morning to see if Obama left anything behind.

Cheetah Girls Update

2009-03-09T08:11:00.000-07:00

Some of you graciously volunteered your services to make the Cheetah Girls club a big success. Kristina asked to be the manager and Grammy Bammy offered to sew the costumes. Some of you who have not volunteered have been given job assignments anyway! Papa Ricky is the "picture taker for the magazines" and Papa Scott is the "stage builder". Maddie is so happy to have you all in her club!

Weekend Get Away

2009-03-09T06:28:00.000-07:00

At the last minute, Luke decided we should get out of town since Maddie had a day off from school. Friday, we drove to Stratford upon Avon and saw the Shakespeare sites. Saturday, we went to Warwick Castle and came home.

Luke and Maddie in front of Shakespeare's birthplace

Izzie found spring

Maddie feeling inspired by her quill

Ally and the girls at Anne Hathaway's Cottage

Warwick Castle

The girls on the playground at the castle

Even though we were seeing some pretty amazing places, the girls probably enjoyed the indoor pool and room service at the hotel more than anything!

Swimsuit Models

2009-03-09T06:03:00.000-07:00

We just booked a trip to Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt in April. We've had a cold winter and are in desperate need of some sun as well as new clothes for a beach holiday. Here are the girls modeling their new polka dot swimsuits on a cold, Sunday afternoon.

The New Neighbor

2009-02-22T16:26:00.000-08:00

Our new neighbor, Camille, was born on Friday, February 13th. Mom was able to see her in the hospital on Saturday, but Maddie waited patiently until Tuesday. When she finally got home, Maddie couldn't wait to hold her. Eric and Shannon, Camille's parents, have been so great about letting Maddie cuddle, kiss, and smother their first baby.

Camille is absolutely perfect. She's a beautiful baby. We're all excited to have a new neighbor and sweet little friend!

Cheetah Girls - Friends Forever

2009-02-21T12:07:00.000-08:00

Recently, Maddie decided to start a club. She had a lot of ideas - cheerleading, High School Musical, cooking, drama, dancing, and Cheetah Girls. After weeks of careful consideration, Maddie has decided to start a Cheetah Girls Club. She wanted me to be sure to tell you that she was introduced to the Cheetah Girls by her cousins, Cicely and Hailey. Since she made her decision, she has spent a lot of time writing Cheetah Girls songs for her club. She does her best work at night after she's been tucked into bed. She'll lie there for hours, working on the lyrics and singing loudly. When she's perfected the lyrics, she dictates them to her Mom who writes them down on carefully selected pieces of paper. Here are the lyrics for her first hit:

Lita nita cheetah friends.
Cheetahs are friends.
Cheetah everything is yours for good.
Cheetah dancing is for them as well.
Cheetahs stay together forever and ever and ever.
Cheetahs are really good together.
Cheetahs do everything together.
Cheetahs help each other.
Cheetahs never fail.
Cheetahs are dancers forever and ever and ever.
Cheetahs are good dancers.
Cheetahs are best friends forever and ever and ever.

Next, I'll try and have her make a music video.

And while we're talking about Maddie, I should tell you that we were on the corner of Exhibition Road and Cromwell Road on Friday where they were getting ready for London Fashion Week. Through a window, we could see them doing hair and makeup. She had lots of ideas about what kind of makeup the models should wear for the occasion. The best part - You should have seen her face as she watched them unload racks of clothing from large trucks. She was so interested in the styles and colors. What I would have given to take her inside to see a real fashion show!

And she sleeps...

2009-02-21T04:38:00.000-08:00

... through the night for the first time. HOORAY! It only took her fourteen, long months. Of course, Mom didn't sleep through the night. Izzie has her programmed to wake up more often. Hopefully, Izzie will do it again tonight.

Mom was so excited about Izzie's big night that she had to take pictures of her and her trusty side kick, Minnie Mouse, before she got them out of bed.

The Green Loch

2009-02-21T04:27:00.000-08:00

For Valentine's Day, Luke bought a painting. Our friend, Jacqueline Adcock, is an artist and has done the most amazing things with paint and texture. The painting we chose was inspired by the Scottish Pines in the Green Loch. So, here you have it - The Green Loch.

Unfortunately, the photos don't do it justice. The second photo is a closeup of part of the painting so you can see the texture. Please feel free to come see it in person!

Baby with a Black Toe

2009-02-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

Isabelle pulled a small, wooden chair over and onto her toe. Luckily, she just bruised the nail and didn't break the toe. She's getting around just fine even though it doesn't look pretty. You should know that the toe looks a lot worse in person! Here are some pics of the walking wounded.

February Break

2009-02-19T08:08:00.000-08:00

Maddie has been out of school this week for February Break. In the past, we've raced around the city going to the museums, shopping, and walking through the parks. Surprisingly, Maddie has chosen to watch her favorite movies - HSM 3 and Mamma Mia, enjoy her toys, and play with her friends in lieu of hitting the town. For our one big outing, we went to the zoo with the Ashton's. Shannon is a photographer so I always trust her to "capture the Kodak moments" when we're out with the kids. I only took a couple of pictures, and silly enough, didn't get any with the animals.

Here are Trev, Madeleine, and Madeleine on a safari ride.

The two Madeleines on the way to see the giraffes and the zebras.

The two Madeleines on the carousel.

Maddie and Izzie drawing with Izzie's new crayons. I was just happy she was drawing on paper instead of the playroom table.

The girls have really enjoyed spending so much time together. We've had a nice, quiet week at home.

Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T05:18:00.000-08:00

For Valentine's Day, Luke did his shopping for the girls and me at the Wedgwood store. He got us...

2 of these,

4 of these,

1 of these,

4 of these,

and 1 of these.

The china is inspired by the artwork of Will Broome which was on display at the Royal Academy of Art. You're all invited to a tea party at our house!

Accident & Emergency

2009-02-08T07:14:00.001-08:00

About 8:30 pm on Friday, I made my first trip to the emergency room with one of my children. Maddie decided to stick a shiny, green bead up her nose after I tucked her into bed. I tried but couldn't get it out, so I decided we better head to the A&E. After waiting to see a doctor for 45 minutes, the treatment only took 2 seconds. The doctor had me sit down and Maddie stand up in front of me. I had to plug her other nostril (so push down on it with my finger), and while doing so, blow into her mouth. The bead popped right out! Maddie grabbed the bead and threw it in her bag. I guess she wanted a souvenir. Unfortunately, I don't have any pretty pictures to post from the hospital. I'm just hoping that if something like this ever happens at your house, I can save you a trip to the A&E!

Snow Day 2

2009-02-03T06:26:00.001-08:00

Last night, we got another text from ASL about 9:00 pm saying that school would be closed again. So even though the buses are moving people, the sun is shining, and the snow is melting, we got an extra day to enjoy what was left of London's rare snowstorm. After lunch, we took Izzie out to play in the slushy snow. She absolutely loved it and didn't seem to mind when she'd tumble over in it. She just smiled and laughed the entire time.

Snow Day

2009-02-02T05:20:00.000-08:00

Maddie chasing Mom.

Maddie posing patiently for Mom.

London had its best snow day in 18 years, today. ASL sent out a text about 5:00 am letting us know that school had been cancelled for the day. No buses, barely any tube lines running, and few taxis makes for a quiet day in London. Luke worked from home, so while Isabelle was having her morning nap, Maddie went out to play in the snow.

Class Reunion

2009-02-02T05:02:00.000-08:00

Recently, Maddie had her first class reunion. Her teacher, Suzanne, moved to Hong Kong at the end of last year. She came back to London for a visit and was able to come to a reunion with the kids who are still at ASL. Here are some pictures of Maddie at the reunion.

Maddie and Suzanne

Maddie with Suzanne and Lynn

Too Cute

2009-02-01T13:14:00.000-08:00

Isn't she just too cute?

Outfit by Baby Gap

Accessories by Maddie

Hair Styled by Sticky Lunch Fingers

Sisters

2009-02-01T12:54:00.000-08:00

Even though they are four and a half years apart, Madeleine and Isabelle still love playing together. They think it's great fun to push each other around in the doll stroller. Here are some action shots of their adventures down the hall.

Just getting situated

Looks like fun

Crash and burn

Here they go again

If you look closely, you'll notice Maddie's Fancy Nancy shoes and Izzie's shopping bag hanging from the stroller. Isabelle doesn't think that a stroller is ready to go unless it has bags hanging off it. She knows best... shopping bags!

Christmas in Tokyo

2009-02-01T06:29:00.001-08:00

We had a great time in Tokyo. We arrived just in time to visit the Imperial Palace and celebrate the Emperor's birthday.

The Emperor giving his birthday speech accompanied by the royal family.

Izzie with the flag that the Japanese Boy Scouts gave her at the palace entrance.

We may not be royal but we're a happy family.

Papa Ricky, Maddie and Jack heading for Ginza.

Maddie, Jack and Luke at Ginza to do a little shopping.

Grammy Bammy and Papa Ricky took us to all the fun playgrounds.

We spent Christmas Eve at Tokyo Disneyland. We got home just in time to eat dinner, read Luke 2, and make cookies for Santa.

Tokyo Disneyland

Maddie's Favorite - Minnie's house.

Maddie made herself right at home in Minnie's chair.

It's a Small World

Izzie at the playground next to Goofy's house.

Dumbo

Izzie's Favorite - Mickey's House

Santa's Cookies

We tucked Maddie in for the night, and when we came back to check on her, this is what we found. She must have put on the reindeer hat on before she fell asleep. We quickly took the picture and ran out. We were laughing so hard that we didn't want to wake her up!

Izzie in Japanese fashion with her Japanese talking mobile phone on Christmas morning.

Maddie in Fancy Nancy/Japanese fashion.

After opening presents, we headed out to visit the Senso-ji temple.

The day after Christmas, Luke, Ally and Izzie headed to Kyoto and Nara on the bullet train while Maddie stayed behind to entertain Grammy Bammy, Papa Ricky, and Aunt Krissy.

The Golden Pavilion

Izzie walking around the grounds at the Golden Pavilion.

The Zen Garden at Daitoku-ji Temple

Izzie and Luke with Buddah.

Izzie and Luke overlooking Kyoto from Daigo-ji Temple.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Gion - We saw five geishas going to work.

While we were out seeing the sights, Maddie was going to the playground and eating at Wendy's.

Ally and Kristina at Harajuku.

The girls only get McDonalds in London so going to Wendy's in Tokyo was their favorite outing.

Izzie just likes fries.

Maddie is all about the burgers and fries.

One day, Grammy Bammy stayed home with the little kids. Papa Ricky took the big kids to Kamakura.

Ally should have practiced using chopsticks before the trip. Papa Ricky had to feed her a snack.

Luke, Ally and Kristina with Daibutsu, the Great Buddah.

Luke and Ally with a little but very cheerful Buddah.

Papa Ricky and Grammy Bammy took Maddie to see Hachiko, a statue of a loyal dog who waited for his master every night for more than a decade after his death. Grammy Bammy has a storybook about the dog and Papa Ricky read it to her before the outing.

Thanks for a great holiday, Papa Ricky and Grammy Bammy! We had an amazing time. Come visit us soon!

After the Concert

2009-01-12T06:36:00.000-08:00

After the concert, there was a family brunch in Maddie's classroom.

Maddie and Izzie in their matching dresses.

Izzie making off with the Mystery Sharing Box.

Maddie's Winter Concert

2008-12-20T09:06:00.001-08:00

Maddie's Winter Concert was on Thursday morning. She sang Christmas and Hanukkah songs with the other Kindergarten classes and 1st grade. Maddie's favorite song is "Spin a Little Dreidl". She knew all the words, did all the actions, and looked so confident on stage. Except when she was clapping, Isabelle sat surprisingly still during the performance. She definitely enjoys a good show. As for the pictures, it's a definite bonus to have a friend with a great lens. So, I have Shannon to thank for a good seat and great pictures!

Isabelle's 1st Birthday

2008-12-17T14:32:00.001-08:00

Isabelle's day began with a few gifts. She spent the morning pushing around her new stroller while the rest of us got ready for the day. After taking Maddie to school and Luke to work, we stopped to get her favorite breakfast - strawberries and a croissant.

During lunch, Isabelle tried on the birthday hat.

For dinner, she had another favorite - pasta and ciabatta. As you can see, the theme for the birthday celebration was Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Isabelle is a huge Mickey Mouse fan. (We can't wait for her to see him in person at Disneyland Tokyo!) Thanks to Maddie, we all had a pair of ears to wear to the party.

While Isabelle finished dinner, Maddie provided the entertainment. She danced to "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" and "Hot Dog".

Isabelle needed Maddie's help to blow out the candle.

Isabelle loved her chocolate cake.

Isabelle finished off the day with a bath, more gifts, and of course, books. It was the perfect day for our birthday girl!

Maddie's 1st Tooth

2008-12-17T13:30:00.000-08:00

Maddie lost her 1st tooth at school, today. Apparently, they were watching a movie on the carpet. Her friend, Nora, picked something off up off the rug and said, "Hey, I found a tooth." Maddie checked her wobbly tooth. To her surprise, it was missing. Nora, who is missing about five teeth, gladly turned it over to its rightful owner. Well, that's how Maddie and Nora tell the story, anyway. We're still a bit confused about how the tooth got from Maddie's mouth to the carpet without her knowing, but we're just glad Nora found it . Anyway, Maddie greeted us with a big smile after school and handed me an envelope that her teacher had labeled "Maddie's 1st Tooth". So now, we wait for the Tooth Fairy.

Happy Birthday, Isabelle!

2008-12-16T13:26:00.000-08:00

It's been the best year!

Love,

Daddy, Mama, and Ayee

(As she so fondly refers to us all!)

Papa

2008-12-16T13:14:00.000-08:00

Isabelle loves books. She'll bring you a book, say up, climb onto your lap, and want you to read it ten times. One of her favorite books is "Who Makes Me Smile". It's a book with pages for pictures that my mom gave her last spring. Lately, she's wanted to go through the pages over and over again while you repeat the names, "Maddie, Izzie, Bammy, Papa, Papa, Bammy." As a result, her word of the week is "Papa". So now, she brings you the book, says "Papa" and claps. So, this video is especially for Papa. See you on Monday!

Paddington Bear

2008-12-13T09:18:00.000-08:00

Paddington Bear made a visit to our house, last week. He gets to spend a week with each child in Maddie's class. He went to a birthday party, a Christmas party, church, and swimming lessons. He enjoyed being carried around by Isabelle during the day and sleeping with Maddie at night. And even though he came dressed in his own clothes, Maddie couldn't resist adding a few accessories!

Putting on The Ritz

2008-12-13T09:09:00.001-08:00

Once again, we were invited to the "Seasonal Festivities" hosted by a family at Maddie's school. We can now say that we have been to tea at The Ritz! In additon to cucumber sandwiches and scones, there were face painters, balloon makers, magicians, and of course, Santa.

Here is Mom with her two favorite girls in the Rachel Riley dresses they got just for the party.

Maddie with Cala, Teresa - Cala's mum, and Noah.

Maddie with Eli - a fellow Star Wars fan, and her teacher, Lynn.

Maddie with her pretty face paint and flower balloon.

Mom with Izzie by one of the gorgeous Christmas trees.

The Ritz must be a fabulous place all year round, but at Christmas, The Ritz is amazing. So, the next time you're here for the holidays, we'll gladly take you to tea at The Ritz!

Bavaria

2008-12-13T05:34:00.000-08:00

We recently spent four days in Munich and vicinity. The highlights were the Bavarian Alps (snow capped and spectacular), the many castles, the Christmas markets, the walking tours of the city and the 'hearty' food and 'yummy' desserts.

Here are some of the highlights:

Christmas market in Marienplatz

Old Town Hall and Glockenspiel

In front of Hofbrauhaus, the world's most famous pub.

Neuschwanstein castle (the inspiration for Disneyland's castle)

From another angle. The inside is also spectacular - the view from each window is even more spectacular than the view from the last.

Maddie and Isabelle enjoyed the snow.

The Girls in front of Linderhof castle.

Isabelle on the way to Linderhof castle (she thinks she's such a big girl).

One of the shopping centers near Marienplatz had Star Wars characters made from Legos.

All warm and cozy and ready to explore.

Ally couldn't get enough of this shop that sold nothing but felt. I think it was her favourite part of the trip.

I've been tagged!

2008-11-22T00:25:00.001-08:00

HUBBY TAG...

What is your husband’s name? Luke

How long did you date? We never really dated. We skipped that part and just got engaged.

How old is he? 34

Who eats sweets? We both do but me probably more than him.

Who said I love you first? Me

Who is taller? Luke, by about half an inch.

Who can sing better? Luke

Who is smarter? Luke

Who does the laundry? Me except when I'm out of town. Luke will do it if he gets desperate enough.

Who pays the bills? Luke - he's the accountant!

Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Me

Who mows the lawn? Lucky for Luke, we've never really had a lawn to mow. I think he's only had to mow three times in nine years. We've never even owed a lawnmower. He'd like to live in a hotel so he never has to do yard work.

Who cooks dinner? Me, but Luke is a good cook. He's better with red meat.

Who drives? We don't do too much driving in London. We only have one car so I drive during the week. I let Luke have a turn on the weekends.

Who is the first to admit they are wrong? We're never wrong. Just Kidding! Usually me.

Who kissed who first? Luke kissed me.

Who asked who out first? I asked him to Preference.

Who wears the pants? We both do.

Friends who should do this: I tag Kim, Dorothea (aka The Greek Goddess - of course we know who you are!), Missy, and Tricia.