AlexandriaDom

Little Baby Ania

2011-11-06T20:34:00.016-05:00

Needful and a bit late on all things post... We had out little baby Ania last August. She was born smaller only 7.4 lbs but is quickly catching up.

Thank you everyone :) We wont be who we are if not for you.

So much to write but just few things are coming out.... How do you post pictures again :) ?? Have not done it for so long.... might never figure it out... also how to post a billion things we have done; dont know...We wish to see all of you and catch up on things... good night, gotta go... sleep

French food and a little bit of the past

2010-08-24T20:59:00.004-04:00

Our little anniversary get away or I call it a honey moon in the South. This year Jeremy took me to our first French restaurant, Bastille in Old Town Alexandria. We were lucky to dine out during a restaurant week, the time when you can try a three-course meal at a pricey place on budget, a total for two $52 tax included.

I ordered sardines appetizer, Sautéed *Branzino Fillet “a la Grenobloise” with capers lemon brown butter and fingerlings potatoes & Summer vegetables. Jeremy tried beignet of Oysters with mignonette mayonnaise and crispy duck confit with summer berries, organic mesclun, citrus-olive oil vinaigrette. For desert I ordered trio of artisanal cheeses and he raspberry crème brûlée with Almond biscotti. It was delicious... as Julia Child would note... everything floated in butter and more butter. Jeremy's duck was excellent... he didn't skip a bite and then he felt it on our hike up to General Robert E. Lee Arlington house.

A striking view with the capitol and a Mall opens up from the porch, the birds eye view of the city. No wonder after General Lee decided to resign from the US army (cant believe they tried to get him to fight his own), the Union army occupied and took away his land. Once again I felt like a long time ago in Moscow learning about how Soviet army took away homes, land and lives... I was so enthralled with the history that there is no pictures...

My first four hours away from home in a long time. I was glad to come back... poor little Feo was struggling with where his mama go. Thanks to Justine (our bishops daughter) I felt they were safe and sound. Sonia had lots of fun and I think Justine read her all fifty library books that are checked out... plus Candy Land game.

catching up... busy summer

2010-07-30T11:00:00.009-04:00

At the zoo we tried posing with a sloth bear that is not sloth by any means. They carry their young on the back; the only bear to do so. We watched a family of otters walk the balance beam, play in the grass and then swimSprinklers saved us from getting over heated in over 100 F.

Sonia's first hair cut... her little baby curls are now in my journal. Sonia sat patiently. She has been doing her long hair every day. I even had time to add some layers. After cutting Jeremy's hair for seven years, this job was done in about twenty minutes.

Feo said his first words this month... first mama even though I have been teaching him papa. Then the next day "ball." He only says them when he really needs one or the other. The biggest ball he could find while I was busy making dinner. We all enjoy "arbuz" but Feo loves to roll it around.

Building with papa while Sonia is taking her nap...
We have been swimming at a local pool for only $2 a day. It has a toddler pool that goes up to three and a half feet deep. Jeremy comes right after work and joins the fun.

My grandpa would have turned one hundred this summer. My mom sent us a plasma car to commemorate the event. Sonia loves it.

This summer we went to Italy at the National Museum of art. With studying painting, sculpture and doing some artwork. We went all five weeks and only once i had to park at the meters therefore cost $3. At the end Sonia got a gift bag with oil pastels; she draws everyday now.

Our Fourth Of July

2010-07-13T21:21:00.009-04:00

July is here... Jeremy and Sonia put together a Styrofoam airplane. They flue it high up in the air. It glided, crashed and almost landed in a bush of poison ivy. The best dollar ever spent at a garage sale. ;-)

We went shopping and got some much needed new shoes for Sonia and Jeremy. Then we headed for the preview Saturday concert on the steps of the capitol. We heard life Lang Lang, David Archuletta and Reba McEntire.

On Sunday we drove to the Airforce Memorial, listened to the Airforce band and watched fireworks shot over the Potomac.

snakes and ice cream

2010-06-22T05:32:00.005-04:00

We walked out of our friend's front door and I was looking at Sonia and going backward. She warned me and assertively pointed with her finger under my feet. If I have made that one step, I would have ultimately landed on this huge black water snake. Not a pretty sight but little girls enjoyed following it. Sonia was thrilled with it.

We also celebrated Solstice with our friends at one of the best ice cream party... Lindy is such a wonderful hostess. I fell to take pictures of girls rolling hula hoops down a huge hill. So here are a few joyful moments captured.

Father's day

2010-06-20T21:45:00.004-04:00

Having two children makes you twice of a father or two times better at it, I think.

Last week Jeremy and Sonia got really bad poison ivy rash.Sonia had many red spot areas but only one blister developed on her leg.Jeremy's whole face was swollen, his eyes were shut and later it spread over his whole body. I was trying to be as nice as I could without erupting into a deep laughter every now and then. What is better? Crying or laughing. By hte way, his face is much better now. Anyways he's got more itchy red rush all over his body. It is not pretty or fun since he seems to be turning into one huge red blister...

Jeremy got a free My touch phone on Saturday and that seemed to make him happy. Then Sonia took her papa out for ice cream in Old Town. This ice cream parlor has a cute bear up front stirring a new batch of frozen goodness. They make ice cream right there so it is like or even better than home made.

On Sunday I treated Jeremy to a breakfast of his choice (whole wheat pancakes with berries and OJ), blueberry-raspberry muffins and then flounder-crab loaf for supper. The food made him happy ;-)

I take photos with things we do throughout the day and send them to Jeremy. Feo was taking a nap, exhausted at a pool.Bears picture for papa to sheer him up one day.Sonia and Feo love their nature class with miss Nancy. That day Sonia saw a frog eating crickets. After miss Nancy told everyone that frog eat crickets, Sonia raised her hand and shared with everyone that snakes eat frogs. Valerie and I through a shower for Mary Beth for her new little baby girl. We had so much fun getting ready and I enjoyed hosting at my home for the first time. Thanks to Heather who was visiting us, I felt everything was in its place!Feo in his new Sunday best. Even with cool matching socks. They only stayed on him for the picture...

Strawberie patch

2010-06-20T21:44:00.005-04:00

Oh remember, remember... those hot days as a child going to pick wild strawberries with my mom in the forest. Well, it is so much more convenient at Butlers's Orchard in Germantown. We drove up to a field, got our containers then a farmer boy showed us to our picking raw... of nice sweet berries.

First Sonia looked a bit puzzled... which strawberries to pick? How do you know mom which are good?So she looked at them, tasted them, looked at worms that enjoyed some of them. Then I pointed out Jeremy who was really good at picking strawberries. With all honesty I am a bit proud of my own berry picking talents and would much rather bolster about my own talents to her. It was not so easy to recognize Jeremy's natural berry picking greatness ;-) Perhaps I was slowed down a bit with a baby and a busy toddler who kept asking if this berry was the right one to pick. But at the time I truly admired Jeremy's speed, quality and determination. So Sonia went to papa to question every strawberry and I took some pictures. Feo sat next to the patch fending for himself. Did I get looks from every grandma within earshot when he stuffed his mouth silly with a nice mixture of straw-dirt-mushed berries that he just proudly picked on his own? Yep. Did I respond with lame "he is a second child so he gets to do a lot more ;-)" when cornered with looks and words? Yep. Did I feel proud he could pick strawberries at seven months just like any of us? Yes.I did get every stain of his, mine and Jeremy's outfits when we got home. Sonia was super careful and remained clean.

At the end we had lots and lots of strawberries. "Who picked this one?" would ask Sonia when we were gobbling them up at home. Every one of these strawberries was unique to her. I couldn't tell exactly but I knew they all were picked with love that morning ;-)

My June

2010-06-05T22:21:00.007-04:00

Why to be born in June... six month away from Christmas puts me right in the middle of the year. Summer is here ;-) Good times!

We celebrated my birthday with flowers, ice cream torte from Cold Stone and a new My Touch phone. Well, it's worth being mentioned because it is a smart Android that I was lucky to get two weeks before its official release day. Things I most like about it: navigation system (with traffic updates and new routes in case of heavy traffic), gmail, fige meg camera with a flash, radio, and anything one can wish for on Enternet. The only thing lacking is Skype... otherwise it is close to perfect. I was in a Thrift store to get some storage bins. After checking their price and comparing it to Wallmart, I opted for a new Rubbermaid bin from Wallmart, just for a few more dollars but much better one.

The phone turned to be a great craigslist shopping tool. So far I found tons of clothes for Feo and lots, lots, lots of small people toys. We have so many that I had to get the biggest storage bin at Wallmart... Sonia and Feo loved that.

No more pink for Feo. Ten bags full from 12 months to 3T all in one stop.It took me a while to figure out what to do with his clothes collection ;-) He now has more clothes than any of us.

Sonia is building a town with rodes, cars, garages and houses. First time such a detailed construction.

On Memorial weekend we listened to the National Symphony on the steps of the Capitol. On Friday we had a preview then on Sunday we went to see the whole thing.On Saturday Sonia fell sick with fever... she got it as high as 104 but she fell all better by Sunday. Then Feo got sick on Monday. His fever didn't go as high.. just to 103.5. Sonia played at the Riverside gardens.

George Washington and his estate

2010-05-26T21:24:00.008-04:00

Love Mount Vernon... things I won't forget:

Cool breeze coming of the Potomac,

Nice tuna-carrot sandwiches,

Big boat beaching and my children watching the river,

Sheep sheared,

Mischa going bazerk,

A story of the English purple uniforms and why it is not always good to wear bright colors (Americans were shooting bright once because they signified higher ranks) At the time there was two ways to get red: One way from the root of a tree and another used a beetle shipped from Mexico to Spain and then to Britain. First being the cheaper way was used by common soldiers. The second was only for the generals. Well, the uniforms did get bleached by the sun retaining its beautiful red color and indicating to the Americans who was who.

Feo's teeth

2010-05-23T21:44:00.008-04:00

Today Feo had two more teeth come out. He proudly uses his all four teeth: two on hte bottom and two on top. He eats numerous foods and makes most people anxious on the question of choking... I have not seen him choke yet but he probably came close to it many times. His lists of foods includes most anything with just some exceptions like no baby food on spoon of any kind. But he likes smoothies with his baby spoon as long as it is not out of a baby jar. Who knew babies didn't like baby jars.Getting dirty and washing everything off

Why not eating

Yep Feo knows what he likes and what he doesn't and trust his papa... Feo is not hesitant to let you know all about it. Today while I was visiting teaching, Jeremy took kids on the quick peek outside with Mischa... Feo thought it was way too quick so they had to gear up and go on for a longer walk. He also is in favor of going to bed early and will get everyone in family to beds on time.

Friday "Property of mom shirt"

Best of Sonia sayings:

Papa: "I am going to grill some burgers."

Sonia: "We don't eat boogers!"

Papa: "Burgers!!"

Sonia walks into kitchen: "Mama, papa is grilling boogers for dinner!"

Last week on the side of the rode we saw a meer of blumes... my heart stopped beating and i had to snap these

Trying bikes

Feo's blessing and Utah

2010-05-12T22:45:00.009-04:00

Feo was blessed in Jeremy's grandparents home and I failed to take pictures that day. Babulya had her camera and thanks to her we have a few shots of the day. I am so very grateful for everyone who came and supported us. We had a full house and I guess I was too busy visiting therefore there is a lack of pictures on my part. Jeremy felt the support and we are very grateful for everyone making it to Feo's blessing!

We stayed with Grandpa and Grandma Lamb, went to church with them, rolled down the hill in the back yard few times and enjoyed spending a week... and I have no pictures... I can't believe it! We just didn't have enough time!

Sonia and Feo played with Babulya at her home while Jeremy and I went out on dates. We were all by our little selves for the first time in six months. Almost spooky ;-) We visited our fave Indian place in SLC, admired mountain peaks and the valley views of the Great Salt Lake Valley, walked on BYU campus and had really good time as just two of us. Trying some fur hats and at Thanksgiving Point.Cowboy hats only for really cool guys. Sonia picked the tallest pony first.

Then she rode the smallest one.

We also drove down to St. George and visited Gigi Wilder. Feo met Gigi for the first time and Sonia loved playing, reading books and sitting on her lap again! They counted the ducks together on back porch and one on front of Gigi's home. We spent a lovely day at a playground, had a pizza, then we had to drive back. We miss you, Gigi! On the way back we took naps... but we did make it there and back in just one day. The longest we have ever been driving in the car with two childs, as Sonia would say.

All in all it was a good trip with seeing friends and visiting family... with lots of driving and huge snow storm. We hope to make it back to Utah again.

Spring, friends, flowers, hair, dogs, firetrucks and balls

2010-04-26T14:23:00.012-04:00

Jeremy's Congressional baseball games started. We love seeing him at work. Last time we came he did an amazing job! We tried planing some herbs. Started with seeds

Sonia loved doing filling up little pots

Just playing in the backyard with Alyssa.

Spring has brought us blossoms; flowers rushed through our bedroom window one morning. It was a beautiful sight. I opened the window and fresh air filled the room ;-)

Sonia has long hair... she hasn't had yet her first hair cut. Doing hair is part of our morning.Climbing and taking pictures. I just love this shot. Red bush and RED hair do right next to our home. Sunglasses are also worn in style.

Feo is tasting Mischa's tail. It is just long enough to put it in his mouth.What did Mischa do? Just laid there... yep he's got two kids in the house. Just two. So far so good; Feo is not walking. He is good for hugs.Holding hands.Playing ball.Speaking Russkij with friends and making new friends. Sonia is good at spelling po-russki too;-) Thanks to Babulya for Montessori Bukvu!

Cock-doodle Zoo special event

2010-04-18T08:39:00.010-04:00

Up and running at7 am this Saturday. We had everything ready so I just put clothes on sleepy children tucked them into car seats and off we went on an adventure. As we hurried into the zoo chatting with friends who were also half way up... I noticed the prairie dogs were still asleep, so were the tigers and lions. We wanted to do it all games, puppets, lion & bear feedings, talking to all zoo keepers, walking on the elephant trail but our legs were too short...

We spent first two hour in hte small mammal house: Watching mongoose catching crickets they hunted them down with eager... Sonia spent a good fifteen minutes observing them. We spoke with armadillo keeper, touched armadillo shell and watched him early up in the morning. Two sloths were fighting for a sleeping box. Female would win its keeper said and she was right.

Meercats loved peeling their eggs; they would only eat egg yoke.Sonia touched meercat skins.

Naked moles were fun to observe: they live longer than any other rodent, thirty years. They live in the low oxigent environment. They don't get cancer. They can endure pain very well. They eat their own poop but only the first one.

An official cock-doodle Zoo hours were over by this time but we headed to the Bird house. At the main room a zoo keeper fed the birds and talked about some being aggressive. In bird world it means territorial. Some birds are scared of predators and prefer to flee.

Then a zoo keeper took us with a small group of school children on unofficial, back door zoo tour. I snuck in with Sonia into a back door... He woke up a kiwi bird and took her out of its cage. Then we listened about how different fly less birds adopt differently to life circumstances. Some like kiwis live in close to perfect environment. They produce huge eggs, hatching takes 65 days and their chicks come out ready to party. Then there are rheas. Males sit on eggs. Sonia was brave to to feed rhea bird. Our zoo guide let us into a cage/exhibit. Sonia held a grape and rhea gobbled it up; it also pecked Sonia's finger, then pulled her and almost knocked her off her feet.My little girl was brave; she cried but didn't whine. So very brave!

We went to see some ducks in the pond and a little chick.

Looking at ducks.Sonia noted a chick hiding behind a rock.At home we celebrated Feo's half birthday with Sonia's cake and candles. Jeremy was super tired ;-)

Celebrating three-year-old Sonia

2010-04-03T21:26:00.014-04:00

Just some snapshots of our doings that day:

Three birthday cupcakes and candles ;-)Just posing with podarki from Babulya... we waited for Jeremy to come home to open everything

Picnicking with papa on the Potomac in old town Alexandria, exploring a historic gun and throwing rocks.

Going to Cold Stone for some free birthday blue ice-cream with gummy bears ;-) What a delight! Feo is eating his spoon for now.
Painting eggs glamorous sparkly colors the night before Easter party.
Library chairs. We always sit and read some books in this corner.

Easter-birthday party on Saturday with Gathright girls. Jeremy were sick with a stomach bug.

What a wonderful little girl she is ;-)

Catching up

2010-04-03T21:17:00.016-04:00

Trip to the Reston Zoo:

In DC they don't' let you pet anyone so we went to a small zoo in Reston. We fed sheep and goats and gave them bottles. Best of Feo looking at animals whole day. He is such a great sport ;-) Since his birth Feo made it his business to come everywhere we go.

These little lamb are only two days old.

They feed with a bottle because mama sheep was hesitant to feed them... but she would come and check on them every so often. We fed mama sheep some food ;-)

Poky porcupine was friends with Kyla and he would go on walks with Kyla and even do tricks like a dog. He seemed more cooperative than our dog, Mischa.Unlike goats and sheep, pigs can bite so Sonia is carefully feeding them with a cup. Rabbits were hoping among huge tortoises...We played at the sand box while waiting for a ride.Sonia rode a pony. Kyla was right behind her; she didn't even get scared this time. Just chatting with him the whole time she was on the pony. Then we went on Safari in the blue wagon pulled by a big tractor.
Petting and feeding African wild cows with huge horns. Some antelopes.

Work night at the park with papa riding cool truck. Cherry blossoms in DC. Jeremy took us to a Building museum and we had lots of fun building Japanese garden, making coil fish and cherry blossoms. Japanese traditional and modern dance.We also watched DC ballet company perform. Then all little kids were invited to come on stage and participate in instant choreography stint. Sonia on stage with about a hundred other little kids. Children did a great job listening and following a dance routine ;-) Sonia surprised me. It was her first big stage performance of a kind.She was dancing with big kids under the direction of DC ballet choreographer. She followed well! No one killed themselves on the way off the stage... that was even a bigger surprise for the parents. It was sunny day but still cold. Sonia fell asleep in the stroller with her polar bear blanket. We walked to Potomac to see the cherry blossoms along the bank of the river; first blossoms were donated by Japan in 1912 and then again in 1960. Six hours flew by ;-)

A prayer

2010-04-03T20:48:00.003-04:00

Between two sessions kids and I ventured outside to walk Mischa. Jeremy feverish and sick stayed home. We walked and walked and then decided to visit a playground close to our home. I was glad to see another little girl playing there.
Lilian turned to be four years old. She and her dad were from Missouri visiting grandparents. She was brave to climb up all the hard places; her dad stood right beside her. He even helped Sonia a few times and helped her learn new things. He shared his life: just got back from second deployment in Iraq. He said his daugther was so much bigger... he had that look on his face while he spoke about her. He laughed... like a guy who has seen sorrow. Then he collapsed with seizure. I had no phone on me but ran and borrowed one from a Mexican lady who chanced to be not too far away. 911... they tried keeping me on-line and I probably yelled at them. Both girls needed me so I hung up and comforted Lilian. She wanted to pet Mischa. He licked her and she smiled.
Paramedics got there quickly... I ran with Feo dangling in my arms to get their attention. They hurried and took care of Lilian's dad. I am so grateful to be there today! So glad I stayed a little longer and chatted a bit... so glad out paths have crossed.

Elephants in DC

2010-03-16T16:03:00.005-04:00

In the morning Jeremy called and told me about the elephants in DC. I thought we all must go and see them. So we piled up in hte car, parked half legally on the mall and got the best viewing spot ever... right next to the news crews. Lots and lots of photographers...

Sitting on the curb and making quick friends: Lisa is almost 3 and her mom is having a baby in September and Alessandra is already three. Alessandra's grandma made her a clown costume for the occasion and the news guys interviewed and took pictures with her. Sonia dressed herself today so we didn't make a cut ;-)

We all got circus hats, wind mills and clown noses. Best of all Jeremy stepped out of his office just a block away. He couldn't stay for the whole thing but we loved seeing him and saying hello.We waited for about an hour; the elephants were late and then... they came.

The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus circus are in town, the elephants are offloaded from the train early to walk the rest of the way in. We caught them right on the 3rd street... they paused for photos with the Capitol.Sonia sneaked and saw everything first hand... I couldn't get her look at me for a moment. After the elephants were gone first thing Sonia said was that they pooped right on the street ;-) We watched the cleaning crew going up and down the street... wiping off everything but the elephant smell that still lingered in the air.

A little bit of crisis

2010-03-12T22:50:00.007-05:00

Yep, I got overwhelmed last week and on Monday Jeremy felt it was nesessary to stop by the emergency room at the local hospital... I spent a few hours under a warm comfy blanket with magazines and full attention of my husband ;-) and reflecting on why I choose to be home with my kids. Is it a scary thing to do? Yep.
This words from elder Ballard in the Ensign this month inspire me "a mother's nurturing love arouses in children, from their earliest days on earth, an awakening of the memories of love and goodness they experienced in their premortal existence."
Sonia was facinated with shadows at the DC temple last week. Going out: Sonia is eating her favorite ice-cream, so good... "The Awakening" at National Harbor

New to us piano

2010-02-28T19:23:00.011-05:00

I found a Yamaha piano on craigslist and Jeremy bought it for me... It is my birthday present this year. All of us are playing it. Jeremy plays Music together songs, I play when Sonia lets me for a few minutes at a time. She plays and sings along in tune with what she is playing ;-) Feo doesn't play. He just chills on a couch.Feo can also do a one-hand stand on his tummy... love him to pieces. Thank you, Irina, for handmade matching sweaters. We went to a National Harbor Children's museum once again and did some embroidery. Sunday best in a dress that still fits... Nana gave it to Sonia last time we were in Southern Cali.At our ward activity we got a photo with some cool dancers from Ghana. Sonia tried some hats while shopping at TJ Max. We couldn't get one thing Sonia really wanted... a little smiley car was not in a set and no begging from me or Sonia was quite enough to convince them to sell it to us

Cooking

2010-02-23T20:58:00.008-05:00

Last week we made it to the bishop's store house and got some white and red hard wheat... Jeremy grinds it into flour and I usually bake the bread. Here is a loaf of my making that went really well with cheese soup.

Jeremy found a bread machine book at Marshal's the other day and what do you know, he got into bread making... last week he was caught reading recipes and making two loafs of bread. Here is his first try... it was delicious and let me just say it is a pleasure to eat something of not my making!

I also made my first granola and it was tasty... I made a few changes adding whole wheat flakes, flaked flax seed and omitting coconut because i don't really like it.

Latest of Feo... he grabs anything within his reach, drools all over and tastes all things that can fit into his mouth. Feo is about four months old on these photos...

At the Children's Museum we got to do some weaving... Sonia and papa had good time exploring a beehive. Jeremy tried on a cool Beehive master outfit. Feo listened to the little bird noises and played with Sonia and papa...

First Sonia would squeeze a bird inside of a bag, birds would give out a natural call and we would try guessing what bird it was. Then she would take a bird out show it to Feo and match it with a picture by the bird nest. We could stay there and play for hours.

My Valentine

2010-02-14T20:54:00.007-05:00

Valentines should be more than a day: perhaps a week, a month or how about a life ? ;-) Jeremy's thoughtfulness touched my heart. Yesterday I was busy making dinner when I saw him walking through the snow with a giant red rose ;-) and Russian long stem cut roses. A huge rose balloon followed Jeremy into the house... Feo gazed at his father and a balloon with admiration for all things new. Jeremy assured him that little Feo's time will come and he will get a balloon for his sweetheart some day... We went to a library to see a puppeteer with a shoe fly and her friend, sock... Last three logs... we couldn't find any more wood at any store last week

Sunday at home

2010-02-07T20:24:00.004-05:00

"Look outside! All cars are covered with snow!"

Magically old world disappeared in the three feet of heavy white snow. Our stake authorized us to hold a sacrament meeting at our homes... it was so sweet to gather at the kitchen table with my husband and two children ;-)

Then Jeremy took Sonia and Mischa for a walk and they were gone for more than an hour. Sonia my little toddler wanted to go on and on leaving her little footprints in the snow.

Jeremy sored himself with digging our car out... it took a while and we all had to come out and help him.

Nice hot chocolate after good dinner finished our Sunday.

I spoke with a friend on her way to Bahamas. I told her how excited I was for her and she laughed saying "have fun being stuck in the snow." The truth of the matter is that I would much rather be in my little home covered with snow and nowhere to go than bake in the hot sun. Well, it is just how I am.

We wished to see a Blue Jay this morning. We have not seen one at our feeder for a long time. Voila, at dinner this beautiful blue bird came to eat with us.

Agency

2010-02-06T13:08:00.008-05:00

Love the snow... missed it whole time we lived in Southern Cali. In my perfect Heaven there will be snow and thunder storms ;-) Heavy snow quiets the noise making everything clean and white. Even dirty Mischa who can't be washed since it is too cold to hose him outside, got his snow bath today.

Sonia found her sun hat and matching trousers and refused to put on much more. I suggested she would venture in the snow so she added one shoe to her outfit. She went out ;-) I love that she will have a picture of herself "doing something hard" and braving one of the all times three heavy snow falls in DC area.

Jeremy went to feed the birds, then shoveled the thigh-deep snow. We huddled together and enjoyed being stuck under one roof. Naps, balloon fight, hot chocolate and memories that can't be tarnished away.
Last week:

We celebrated Jeremy's birthday with Gershwin at the National Art Museum and NYC Opera. It was a free performance during lunch time where Sonia and Feo could come with us. Then we had a surprise party with good friends, dinner and a yummy torte.

We played with clay and Sonia made a butterfly. Sonia wanted to hols it and play with it. I told her about the clay and that we would need a very hot fire to make it stronger. She asked for fire... I told her her Babulya used to have an oven with that kind of fire but I don't. So the butterfly didn't last.

My two darlings on the stairway at home.Sonia and her bunny.

After a long day at work resting by the fire

Making an apple pie for dinner.

Hard working pin and hands

Snow is on the way

2010-02-05T09:26:00.004-05:00

Well, such is life... poor Feo won't be blessed this Sunday in Utah. We loaded our car last night with all the luggage only to find out our flight has been cancelled and there will be no flights until Monday. I wanted to cry and so I did ;-) here is a quick update:

Sonia still fits in the laundry bascket....Feo is growing quick.He plays with old Sonia's cow reaching and grabbing with his liitle hands.

We made some cute pinguins at the library.

Three-day weekend

2010-01-20T21:57:00.005-05:00

We love having papa for three days to ourselves. We found Mischa a dog sitter for when we fly to Utah next month. Then we played at a Sparkle Lab in the American History Museum.We went shopping at TJ Max and got some cool stuff ;-) for cheap... a dress for me, running shoes for papa, Curious George books for Sonia and additional train tracks for Feo. Plus tried on hats... I have to say trying on hats was my fave activity when I was a kid shopping with my mom. Then on Monday it was warm and sunny so we went to see our friends a the National Zoo.

Baby panda was up and eating his lunch. Too bad he is going to China soon (all US born panda babies belong to China. They are here on a loan for a few years after they birth then they are shipped away)... I hope they treat him well there.

We saw not a hedgehog. It is a look alike from Madagascar, a small tenrec. It has no needles. Sonia wanted to pet him.

An older lady stood right behind us. She smiled at me and told me my son was flirting with her... he is quite a cooer and will try huge smiles, laughing and giggles if you are close by.

Feo's crib

2010-01-20T20:45:00.005-05:00

Last week we put together Feo's bed. He is not ready to sleep on his own yet neither am I but here it is... The mattress frame went up, a quilted bumper was neatly tied up and two jolly kids gazed at my finished work... a joyful moment.

This little quilt and a bumper are designed by me. I also made a big quilt in red with the same large squares that came from a book. It is too big for Feo but I am thinking to put it up on the wall.Sonia's baby Dear also has a matching quilt.

It is perfect for Sonia's baby ;-)

We are flying to Utah soon and I can't wait to find new fabrics for my summer projects! When I went shopping for my first quilt for Sonia's new bed Jeremy about had a heart attack... he didn't think I could finish putting all the little scraps of fabric together but I somehow managed it. Now I am much more confident and even make my own designs ;-)

Today at the library we made fun walkie-talkies out of plastic cups. Sonia and I played with it whole day long and when papa came home, he also tried them out. So simple and it works!

Right before bedtime I caught Sonia reading Feo a new book from the library. Feo intently listens to every word of Sonia's story ;-)

Sister and brother...

2010-01-12T22:45:00.003-05:00

Feo fell asleep in the bouncy chair while I was making a dinner the other night .

"Mama, Feo would like some lovies," Sonia said and then she went to work. By the time Feo woke up, he was swaddled in many blankets and surrounded by little friends ;-)

I know what Pediatrics recommend: do not cover babies with blankets and do not put any stuffed toys next to them... but that would be so boring!

All aboard... Norwegian Christmas trains

2010-01-12T22:35:00.003-05:00

To finish our New Year's celebration we went to see a Norwegian train winding its way through the mountains and fjords at the Union Station.

A wooden church reminded me of Russian Kizhi on the North

there were trolls and everything to Sonia's delight.

New 2010 year

2010-01-08T07:47:00.009-05:00

Today I ran my first run. Mischa was ecstatic about it ;-) It was so lovely outside with an inch of fresh snow on trees, cars and side walks. I am still recovering and could only run for about a mile and a half... without pushing too hard. I hope in a few weeks to go on longer, four to five miles once again.
We watched Alyssa and Audrey on New Year's eve and then went to a little party until about 10pm... Sonia ate lots and lots of cookies ;-)
New Years Day we visited Baltimore and went to see an aquarium built right over the water of the Chesapeake bay. It hosts a center for dolphins along with lots of fish, sharks, amoebas and all other sea creatures.
A huge extinct shark makes for a lovely family shot... note the harbor and a ship Huge tubes with bubbles were huge among the toddler crowd. pink Amoebas... mine and Sonia's favesAt the aquarium they gave us snuggies to carry Feo around... he loved hanging out with his papa whole day A funky lizard was diving and chasing Sonia around Sea turtles and a reflection of Sonia and Feo watching them I also got to go shopping at my fave Feiline's basement and got $120 Jeans for only $20; plus a new coat for Sonia and wool work pants for Jeremy: all for great prices. Top it off with delicious dinner at PF Chang's all thanks to my mom. Thank you mom for an awesome Christmas gift!

Christmas eve, morning and day

2009-12-29T22:28:00.013-05:00

A morning guest right outside our window. This Red-Bellied Woodpecker chases all the other birds away and clearly dominates the place until a squirrel comes.

At Mount Vernon, residence of the first president of the US, it was all about a camel. Hosting an exotic camel for the holidays is a long-standing-Mount-Vernon tradition; George Washington rented a camel to entertain his guests every Christmas. We loved petting this cuddly, soft giant. Getting a bit closer.And then way too close ;-)We also enjoyed visiting the third floor of the house--open only in December--and learning the roots of the twelve days of Christmas: there's twelve days between Gregorian-calendar Christmas and Julian-calendar Christmas. This is one handsome Mount-Vernon-model gingerbread house made by the former White house chef.

In the children's room Sonia tried to be Jacky first then she tried being Patsy

then Mrs Washington

and then why not George Washington himself!? Poor papa had to play Mrs...

We watched how real chocolate was made by hand. The Washingtons are said to have drunk hot chocolate every morning. Kids couldn't have any because it was too strong but they were aloud some diluted beer...

At night we burned a fire and had our traditional Christmas story with Handles' Messiah. This time we used Nana's creche. Sonia has been playing with it so when the time came we couldn't find Mary... plus the set didn't include Joseph. Jeremy had to improvise but it turned out lovely.

Santa worked hard into the night. I sewed polar bear car blankies for Feo, Sonia and PJ pants for papa. At about midnight while finishing up PJs, the scissors went right through my left pointer and we had to visit ER but we were back at 3 am.

The morning came and we all went to see if Santa ate his cookies... Sonia left them on the computer desk (to hide them from Mischa) and there were two left with huge bites in them... reindeer bites!

We spent whole day playing with new toys and enjoying our Christmas at home. Little Feo's first Christmas and his big stocking ;-)

Mischa the reindeerMischa is a free dog

Polar bear scarf and car blanket I made for Sonia... she was thrilled and couldn't wait to use them.

Feo needed this car seat blanket... it was so easy to make and I use it every day!

Jeremy in his polar bear pants playing harmonica.Thank you, mom for yummy nuts and Irina for a hand-knit wool sweater for Feo!My mom sent us presents that left me in awe... the wrapping was not of my moms making ;-) Mike did all the work and it made our tree so much more beautiful.

Feo caught smiling...My fave morning shot of papa and Feo

Sonia joined a photo shoot when she saw how much work it took to get Feo to smile on camera.

Next morning everyone was ready to head out of the house... to see trains at the National Botanic Garden, shopping at H&M at a huge Potomac Mills mall and then dinner at our friends house.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

2009-12-20T09:42:00.017-05:00

On Friday night we went to see the lights at DC Temple and to enjoy a Musical Christmas program. Our friends Valerie and Mary Beth played flute and violin in the orchestra. It took us two hours what should have been fifty-minute drive but the children and I made it (Jeremy rode metro from work). We also got to see an orchestra pit. Then we enjoyed company of our friends. and beautiful Christmas trees decorated with dolls donated by different embassies. Here is a Russian doll and two adorable children ;-) Second performance was cancelled that night because a snow storm was approaching.

I thought to myself "what a big deal? I am not scared of two inches of snow!" We lingered a bit longer looking at lights and a beautiful creche.On the way back we caught the beginning of the storm and were lucky to travel behind a snow plow the whole way back.

Then Saturday morning we woke up to a snow wonderland. It snowed whole night and kept snowing whole day. Sonia and Feo were sick with fevers but Sonia dared to step outside to ride in her sled for about ten seconds. Snow piled up into her nose and mouth and she was back inside rather quickly. Jeremy kept shovelling the snow whole day and even at night.

This storm set the record for the month of December since 1910. An Ice Skating show we wanted to go to got cancelled; so was the ward Christmas party. Buses, trains and even an airport came to a halt. It was peaceful and quiet outside. Only Mischa was disturbing the neighborhood with his romping and snorkeling in the snow.

Sunday church was cancelled and we had one of the best brunches ever... no hurrying and no being late for the first time seems like. Then we did unthinkable.. we packed both kids, sick and half way sick and went onto an adventure to Huntley Meadows. Feo was tucked into Sonia's pink snow suit... poor boy. When he is of age, he will tell me "No more pink!" Sonia's jacket was still missing but she kept warm in a long sleeve shirt, turtle neck, fleece shirt and rain coat plus a warm cover in the sled. I wore Jeremy's snow boots from Russia and he wore his summer shoes. Off we went into a land of true magic.

Sonia's head was barely above the snow. She did well in the sled managing to fall out only once, being bumped into by Mischa once and then kept smiling.

At some point Sonia wanted to walk... "the snow is crunchy" she proclaimed.

At home we warmed our cold hands and feet by a fire, had squash and sausage soup for lunch and took naps... a perfect day if you may. And it just got better--all government offices are closed tomorrow so Jeremy will be home.

Two months old

2009-12-17T23:27:00.004-05:00

Feo with Sonia's Slon wearing his hunting outfit that keeps him warm but isn't my fave color. Last night we had a late shopping spree with Feo. He really wanted to get home and missed Sonia. Plus he wanted his snack and didn't stop squealing until I fed him sitting on the floor in the midst of the store isles... Feo smiles, coos and loves hanging out with his mama. Well, sometimes with papa too ,

just reading some books,but not too long.

Christmas ball and Train at National Botanic Gardens

2009-12-14T22:51:00.010-05:00

My big-little girl was helping all week long. Sonia cut green beans with sharp Cutco knife. My little cook ;-)

Sonia had so much fun that we didn't stop until a pot was filled up for dinner.

In preparation for the party we were shopping for whole wheat lasagna noodles at Shopper's late at night.Sonia asked me to put everything in her cart. Great little helper!

We had Alyssa, Audrey, Valerie and Graton at our Annual Christmas ball. ;-)Right before guests arrived, my children were watching rolls in the oven.

One table... perhaps next year we'll have room for a special little table for kids. Sonia spilled her juice right in Valerie's plate.

We played games, danced, roasted marshmallows on the open fire. Jeremy's fire made everything warm and cosy... I love it. We finished our night with 1978 version of Bolshoi's Nutcracker ballet.

On Saturday we went to see trains at National Botanic Garden. Everything except for trains was made with plant-based natural materials. They store only trains the rest is made anew every year. Rapunzel

This year the theme was enchanted storybook garden with trains popping in and out. It was magic ;-) Sonia and I watched and watched trains come and go. We could spent whole day looking at fairy tales come to life.

Deck the Halls

2009-12-06T22:43:00.006-05:00

First snow fell on Saturday morning; we got to Home Depot to pick a tree... for just $29 we found a Douglas Fir beau to fit in our tiny living room.

Sonia helped me decorate tree with pine-cone gnomes, bells, and old Russian decorations. All thanks to my mom. I am still working on a few felt decorations and I need something for the top. When we were finished, Sonia said this is my big tree! We decorated our stairway with garland, knitted train and hang little German wooden toys on our little tree. I found all these cool little things at the garage sales last summer.

While we napped, Jeremy built a fire and we spent a cosy night enjoying warmth and piece meangled with Christmas lights and hot chocolate.

Sonia's played with her three bears on a sled. She sat them all in the raw then said: "Mama, please take a picture of just the bears."

"This is my sled!" wailed Sonia across the room. But too late, silly mama put poor Feo in it ;-)Life is beautiful ;-) Simply can't get better than tonight!

Tree lighting at Gathrights

2009-12-04T22:02:00.007-05:00

Thank you, Valerie and Graton, for having us over at your party... we were so lucky to come!!! Christmas lights, Frosty, Rudolf and Santa plus great food!We picked up papa at the train station and headed right over skipping dinner all together.

Sonia was brave this year. She sat on Santa's lap and told him all she wants for Christmas. She wants musical bells... I hope Santa can find them ;-) there is still time. I am sure he has some at the North Pole. Santa gave Sonia a candy cane... that inspired Audrey to come tell Santa what she wants too. We saw a tree light up and Allysa with Sonia stood right next to it gazing at a huge tree. You can't see the top when you stand right under the tree ;-)What a cute little guy I next to me ;-)

Feo's first Christmas is coming up and I can't believe he is here. Just a year ago we were a family of three.

and just one more picture.

We also rode in a traditional carriage pulled by Belgian draft horses. And not just any Belgian horses, Wolley was a horse that delivered a Christmas tree to a White House this year! We had to ride twice and if it was up to Sonia, we would have gone two more dozen times ;-)

Getting in.

All snuggled in the carriage.

Our ride was smooth in the replica of the 19th century carriage; it would be nice to travel great distance with friends in something like it.Best of all we spent a delightful night with our dear friends! Thanks guys!

Geese are getting fat ;-)

2009-12-03T21:54:00.009-05:00

It is a busy time of a year... we have been trying to catch naps, get ready for Christmas and still have enough energy to keep up with everyday things.
Christmas shopping with Jeremy at Target didn't do much and I need to go back there next week... But Sonia got lots of things done...All animals are napping ;-) More of them and some more. Then she puts them all back on shelves.

Bounce, bounce squeak!

There is a mouse in the house

"It's been there for a week" goes Sonia's favorite nursery rhyme she tells Feo every morning.

Kisses follow ;-)The winter is finally arrived at our door steps with frost and snow, not enough to make a snowman. We used white clay.

Last night Jeremy happened to be color coordinated with Sonia and Feo... this doesn't happen all the time ;-) To go to Costco Jeremy takes subway from work and we meet him there.

We love our little Feo. Last night at the mall someone exclaimed: "Oh, what a cute Mohawk he has!" When I said it is his natural hairdo, a lady laughed in disbelieve. Well, I suppose we are just cool ;-)

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2009-11-26T21:42:00.004-05:00

First time for everything... six years we made it without cooking the bird; today was our first one! Sonia helped me pick it out yesterday. Jeremy did an excellent job even though I surprised him this morning by saying the bird was his to cook. We planned to have friends over but at the last minute something came up... We went ahead with out plans and had a great time with just four of us and Mischa.

I rubbed turkey with spices and stuffed it with fresh rosemary. It turned out perfect! Thank you honey!

We also started a new turkey tradition. Sonia and I made this paper turkey a week or so ago. Then we wrote down little things we were thankful for each day and stuffed our turkey at night. Today we read our blessings aloud! Here is what we are grateful for: Sonia was grateful to sit on her papa's lap and eat grape nuts one morning. She was grateful to make this turkey with me. Grateful for yummy muffins. I am grateful for a clean fridge and bathrooms, for Jeremy leading home family night and talking about our blessings and for Sonia loving Feo. Jeremy is grateful for a cool foggy Thanksgiving morning and for his little women and one little guy ;-)

I am sure we have not mentioned all what was on our minds and grateful hearts... the turkey was waiting and it was time to eat. Sonia asked for seconds and thirds of turkey and cranberry sauce. Jeremy was into gravy and I enjoyed my green beans with golden chanterelle mushrooms. Making dinner was lots of work but now I don't have to cook for a week! Happy Thanksgiving!

gone with the week

2009-11-22T17:09:00.010-05:00

These two can take a house apart and it will look like a hurricane passed by ;-) But it is all worth it!!! I miss them if I don't see them for just two hours.

My first story time with two of my children there. I found some excellent finger plays, rhymes and stories but the craft turned into lots of fun... We made sunflowers spinners. Our two-year-olds pored TONZ of glue and lots of sunflower seeds ;-) It was an instant hit!

Feo turned one month ;-) Sonia is a book worm and she passes on her passion to her brother.Mom, how do I look with all these books? Is it fall? What about a snack?!My mom called and said it is a respectable age! Best of Feo... he loves Sonia and can't stand to be away. She went to her music class with papa this week but by the time they got into a car she kept asking papa where Feo was.

We take baths together ;-) It is lots of fun with Feo swimming like a little fish and Sonia asking me to put his head all the way in water.

I survived yet another 104.5 fewer. On Thursday my friend, Valerie took me and the children in for the day. She saved me from a coming of an anxiety attack... by being Heaven sent ;-) It made me think of how grateful I am for bonds of love, womanhood and friendship. Here is a quote from Elder Bednar that lifted me up along with the blessing from my loved one.

"Feeling the security and constancy of love from a spouse, a parent, or a child is a rich blessing. Such love nurtures and sustains faith in God. Such love is a source of strength and casts our fear (see 1John 4:18). Such love is the desire of every human soul." Thank you everyone who picked up a phone when I called and helped me figure out what to do!!!

On Saturday we all felt better and went on our Huntley Meadows walk... I am glad we did because for the first time we enjoyed a company of a beaver.

He just hung out with us for about ten minutes letting us enjoy him.

As soon as we thought to take a family shot... he dove in ;-)

Silly beaver!

Two of my favorites guys in the world ;-)

Last week Jeremy snapped a photo right before bedtime...and then on the stairway with all of us ;-)My best table runner ever!!! It took me nine months to make one ;-) Feo is going to think he belongs in the middle of the dinner table because he is always there when we are in the kitchen!

Grandma's Blanket

2009-11-16T09:10:00.004-05:00

Nana, Jeremy's mom sent us a package for Feo with a hand made blanket. Gigi Wilder made this blanket for Jeremy when he was a baby. So we piled up on it and took a picture ;-)

Kid EuroFestival in washington DC

2009-11-11T14:06:00.006-05:00

Feo's first week of life

On Saturday we couldn't stay home simply because we all had a need to get out and go places. It was raining so we went to see... Children's Museum. KidEuroFestival happened just to take place over with Nikos Xanthoulis presenting ancient Greek music. We got through a classical lecture first (please read target age: dead people ;) and then enjoyed listening and playing ancient instruments.

We explored a museum exhibits with birds and animal tracks.

Then we made "A doll with Amber eyes" or Estonian Raggy. We listened to a story and learned to appreciate the sound of a language we can't understand.

Feo's second week

We found ourselves in the Embassy of Finland listening to my all time favorite Mumin stories. I grew up on this. They are as epic and full of goodness as Hobbit to all well brought up nine-year-olds ;-) Snufkin played his harmonica and Moomintroll a base and we all enjoyed music and dancing. The Embassy building itself deserved a visit and admiration. Meyer's style architecture fitted well the surrounding.Open space, great utility and everything seemed child friendly. In the bathroom the sink was right height for Sonia to wash her hands. Finnish people think about children and build practically. While we played, Feo rested on the floor pillow.

Perhaps some one might think it's odd but for me Mumintroll wins over anything Disney has to offer. At home Sonia and I watched Mumintroll cartoons made by Russians/Soviets. Pretty cool stuff ;-)

Feo's third week

Our last trip took us to Austrian Embassy for an opera composed for children. Take a guess and you'll be right... Wolfgang Amadeus Motzart and his Bastien und Batienne was performed by Noah Donahue, a 13-year-old soprano and Katherine Mariko Murray, a 17-year-old soprano. Plus an Austrian guest baritone Steven Sheschareg. Pure music heaven for someone like us ;-) Sonia was thrilled and it made my day even better.

Sonia's new puppy

2009-11-04T09:29:00.002-05:00

This morning Sonia woke up, walked into our bedroom and said she wants a yellow puppy. Jeremy was in the shower and I couldn't help but laugh. I asked her what about Mischa; she insisted on the puppy so I told her to go and talk it over with her papa.
"Papa, Sonia wants a yellow soft puppy" she said into a shower.
"But what about Mischa? He is our puppy!" came from the shower.
"Mischa is mama's. Sonia needs yellow soft puppy, please"
"A lab?"
Sonia came back into the bedroom still asking about a soft yellow puppy. I told her a new puppy would eat up her toys and pee everywhere.
Then when we were getting dressed in her room, Sonia pointed to her yellow puppy on top of the book shelf and exclaimed again "I want my yellow puppy!"... Ooh, Good Heavens!!! One dog at a time ;-) And never, never assume you know what puppy the conversation is about.

Happy Halloween!!!

2009-10-31T22:05:00.006-04:00

Door to door trick or treating at church kicked off our Halloween fun on Friday... lots and lots of candy gathering. My friend Carma majored in costume design at BYU... she looked amazing and I would have never recognized her. She easily put on forty extra years ;-)

Some other friends that simply stunned me with their Egyptian theme.

When Sonia got to the front of the Halloween parade, KC exclaimed "What a tiny little elephant we have here!"

She didn't think she was an elephant... Sonia is Slon! At music class we sang for her about Slon.

Saturday brought more candy with it. Our neighborhood turned into a great place to go trick or treating at night. First door we knocked. Is it how tracting feels when you are on the mission? ;-) More candy than any of us ever wanted plus some really creative decorated porches. We said hello to some friends and made some new friends. Sonia was brave to knock on the door of a very old lady in a wheelchair. Sonia cheerfully said "Trick or Treat!" and "Happy Halloween!" to her. Some other neighbors asked if we were Republicans, since we have got an elephant with us. ;-)

Jeremy pushed both kids in Sit and Stand. When I lamented about both of our children being comfortable, Sonia corrected me and said "Childs." We've got two childs this Halloween ;-) It worked great! I had free hands and could sort of keep up with everyone. I would have not missed this night for any naps ;-)

At home we feasted on candy instead of dinner until no one could eat any more. Sonia tried hard to convince her papa that he could have another one.Candy usually just doesn't happen at our house... here is Sonia's first lolly pop ever. Yummy! Next time we have to wait until Spring and Easter ;-)

Highlights of the week

2009-10-31T21:49:00.005-04:00

Last week was our first full week all on our own without any help and we managed well. Life is falling into a new routine; with occasional sleepless nights and some sleepy nights. I also catch naps during most days and that makes my recovery go much easier ;-)

In the morning we wake up and have some snuggle time, play games and read in mama's bed.

Then we get out of the house to run to the library on one day or music class on another. Come home for lunch and naps. Then we do some crafts and arts. We colored a scarecraw this week.

We have dance and music at night to get the wiggles out and then papa comes home. Books, dinner and more snugles finish up our day.

Pumpkin carving

2009-10-30T14:46:00.008-04:00

Last month we checked out lots and lots of books about Autumn, changing leaves, harvest time, pumpkins and Halloween. Sonia would say "Halloween comes we are going to carve our pumpkin". Last night was such a night.

Sonia and papa found a nice, happy and super easy pumpkin design then they went to work.

Pumpkin turned out to be super thick. It is a sweet pumkin that has lots of flesh. I am thrilled because we are going to make some yummy pies this Sunday!!! But for now it is a jackolantern; we come downstairs in the morning to look at it and light it up at night. Sonia and I are so excited about it!

That day Sonia made stars and spaghetti with play daugh. Sonia is such a good big sister. She loves talking to Feo about all she is doing. Feo's cord fell out that morning too... our big boy ;-)
He does play favorites... mama is his favorite for now ;-) Papa calls him "Mama's boy."

Right outside front door

2009-10-25T22:18:00.003-04:00

We stepped out into the fall- the leaves changed colors during our four days inside. With all four of us together we played right outside our front door for a long time. Sonia covered Feo... I only wish I had a better angle on this photo.Peace and serenity was in his eyes as he gazed at all she could do.Our guard dog took good care of Feo. On Wednesday when I couldn't bring Feo downstairs, Mischa napped upstairs next to my bed. When Feo stirred, he would ran downstairs to let me know. He was better than a baby monitor. Jeremy thinks Mischa got much more protective over night.Running away from mama... way too many pictures. Sonia just wanted to play that day and I wanted to freeze these moments in my memory.

One week flew by

2009-10-24T20:27:00.008-04:00

It was fun having papa home for extra couple of days last week. Sonia loved papatime and I got much needed rest. Tuesday papa took us out to a playground. Feo's first time in the car seat. He loves when Sonia and I sing silly songs in the car. So far he is very patient with car rides. Here is Sonia in the car seat going on her first trip out of the house. She is four days old. On Wednesday we were on our own... we had some fall outs but we managed through the day and got full night of sleep with a couple feedings in between. I learned a lesson that even great planning can run into trouble with execution... when Feo was asleep by 2 pm, Sonia who always naps at that time refused to go down for a nap. She is back on her regular routine now and we all manage to get a nap during the day.

Thursday went by with a trip to the story time right around the corner and doing some clay... bumpy and smooth pumpkins and a scarecrow. Friday we ventured to the music class because Sonia was couped up and that put us right on the routine with nice nap during the day for everyone!!! We are also working on some greeting cards for grandmas and grandpas.
"Feo look at my painting!!" and he does look at her painting and at all she does. He loves watching Sonia dance around and play with him.A few things that make my day:
Sonia's cheerful "Good morning" to Feo starts our day on the happy note. She loves talking with her little brother, calling him "My Feo", singing to him in the car (her singing improved all of the sudden ;) and playing with him when he is awake.
Feo coos and talks. He doesn't cry when he is hungry; he just coos. Feo smiles when I kiss him on the cheek. He can turn his head from one side to another and his whole body fallows his head.

Very early Saturday Morning

2009-10-20T10:21:00.006-04:00

At 12:15 am I whimpered... "Jeremy, please pass a brown pillow!!" "What brown pillow?" I heard a sleepy reply. "We only have one brown pillow, a big one and I need it right NOW!It is on your side of the bed!"

We just got into the bed because that Friday I had about a million errands to run. Music class in the morning then Costco trip and a quick stop at the mall to get some much needed makeup. We ate our dinner around 10:30 pm and went to bed right after midnight. I thought to myself... the house is a mess, we are exhausted, I am glad the day is over.

After less than two hours of very hard work ;-) with lots of funny moments, fond moments and memories that will be treasured deeply in my journal... the baby slipped out in the water. I announced baby's arrival to Jeremy and Liz. They were rather surprised with such a quick finale.

Feodor was born in the caul and he surprised me... I was ready for a little girl but felt deep love for this little guy as soon as Liz (I held him and she had to check because I was a little scared ;) said he was a boy. His birth was an amazing experience for us. With no tears and with much stronger belief in Heavenly Father's guidance, my husband's love and confidence; trusting myself... I would go as far as to say, we just might have another baby some other day.

Just born. Our Feo ;-) all in pink... the other morning I asked Jeremy if it is okay to give away Sonia's 2T jammies. Jeremy seriously wondered why can't Feo wear them? They are jammies! I didn't know if he was joking but firmly replied "because they are 2T. How long can a boy wear pink?"

Next morning Sonia awoke to see her new baby brother. She has been suspecting that she will wake up one day and there he would be. She was right! We opened her baby Dear and played with our babies. She even has a mama made quilt for her ;-) I'll post all sewing projects soon

Papa and son look a lot a like... Feo has big nose and big wide-open eyes! He was born with great reflexes. Feo only shuts his eyes when there is a flash light ;-)

Sonia holding Feo for the first time and admiring her brother. Feo's first time wearing an outfit. Blue works well for them.These are my most favorite people in the world!!!!!

Zoo trip and baby car seat

2009-10-15T15:42:00.005-04:00

We are trying to visit all places that will be hard to get to with the arrival of a new baby in a few days. On Monday we went back to the zoo. Monkeys had their lunch: lettuce, apples and pop corn. Coincidentally Sonia was munching on some pop corn too ;-) She thought it was funny. We saw a gorilla climb up big poles and walk around high up in the sky.

In the mammal house Sonia watched small rodens leap, jump and crawl and chased some behind the glass. Then looking at huge elephants was also fun.

Sat on panda and actually saw panda bear walking outside, usually they sleep. Sat on brown bear and watched them walk and just enjoyed being the three of us for not so long!

I finally got a car seat for the baby... Chicco KeyFit30 just under one year old. It should be perfect for the new little one who can grow up to 30 lbs and still fit. It took me more than a month and I feel like a high achiever ;-)

Autumn in the East

2009-10-10T20:54:00.020-04:00

A visit to a farm in the Fall is quickly becoming our family tradition. This year we ventured out about two and half hours away to Market Miller Orchards and Hill High Farm up in the Appalachian mountains. This farm has been in one family since 1811. The farm house was built around that time and looks way cool. It is close to the border with West Virginia. People around us spoke with all sorts of accents and we have seen licence plates from New York to California but nothing was as fascinating as listening and watching local "mountain" people.

We picked Granny Smith, Ida Red, Red Stayman and Nittany fresh right off the apple tree to Sonia's delight. She wanted to find little apples, not big ones. I had to try every sort to determine if we liked them and so did Sonia: crisp and juicy... so good ;-)

Then we explored the playground with Noah's ark. I couldn't fit through all the ladders and crawling spaces; papa took over. The biggest attraction of the day was a cow train made of big water buckets and a lawn mower for an engine... first time Sonia wanted to go with papa. They both successfully fit into Bertha, the biggest cow.But soon Sonia rode Bella all on her own.Sonia managed to get on the train more than a dozen times and ride every cow. Thankfully it was a free day! At the end of the day I didn't want the baby to feel left out. So we joined the cow ride and surprised Jeremy when he turned around and everyone was gone ;-)

The biggest pumpkin I have ever seen!Two cute pumpkins and one huge one ;-)Just this picture made it worth the drive at 39 weeks ;-)We picked three gourds and plan to make funny geese out of them next week.

We had some hot and delicious pumpkin and apple cider donuts early in the day. Good thing because by 4 pm there was a donut line and people were waiting for about an hour to get some fresh donuts!
Then we piled up in the car and drove to a Hill High farm down the road; it was just a mile away and it was worth the hassle of getting into and out of the car!
Little calf came out of his house as Jeremy called for him.He licked Sonia's and Jeremy's hands. His tong was slimy and rough! His newborn coat was soft to touch.

Sonia ran after two chickens then watched huge turkeys in the pen. We pet bunnies all colors and sizes. One of the bunnies was really big.

Milking goats.

One of goats had very small ears and was very friendly.The blue grass Double Deuce Outlaws band played well and sounded not too loud. Even I stopped to listen for a bit ;-) We played on the old rusty tractor.Jeremy's could have made a good farmer ;-) Maybe this should be our next adventure?
Sonia discovered a new food group... french fries. I felt like a great mother... pretty good for making it without fries for two and half years ;-) She calls her play food fries "corn." I took more pumpkin pictures. It is such a classic ;-) We got our family shot of the day!!! Mischa was sitting in the car; he was not allowed on this farm. I would have used this picture for Christmas but the baby would be way too offended.
Happy harvest time and thanks for stopping by!

Halloween preview

2009-10-08T07:36:00.004-04:00

A cute shot Jeremy snapped of our little gray slon (elephant). I thought of a banana costume for the baby but Jeremy pointed out that Slon doesn't eat bananas... really? Oh! Then maybe I'll just get a pumpkin.

At the music class last week Sonia twirled and danced.For one of the songs where kids pick instruments to go with the rhymes, she asked for a harp and singers.

At the story time Sonia has her favorite pink poodle. We have to leave it there and it is always hard. She calls it my pink poodle ;-)

So far she requests an ABC song about twenty times a day... we love the song, not so sure about knowing the letters. I have to add that I don't know any alphabet in its order, I have never learned them so it is challenging to keep everything straight.

Yesterday I did my own very first story time at the Sherwood Hall library. They had budget cuts so we got a group of moms helping the library with keeping up their programs. I did color songs, rhymes and read "Put me in the Zoo," "Lemons are not red," "Painted mouse," and "Sylvi." The children seemed to really enjoy it. To top it of we made ice cream cone craft -- Sonia loved it.

Mischa is doing much better. He is eating again and acting like himself. He is being a good boy, Sonia says.

Free Dog

2009-10-03T23:08:00.004-04:00

I walked through the front door after picking up Jeremy from the late night session, the house smelled like... not sure if there is an adjective. I wondered how we have spent a whole day inside listening to General Conference and not noticed the "smell". I ran upstairs to hide something in the closet, a treasure to be used for Christmas stockings and saw our bed!!!!!!!!! There was an alarm clock covered in liquid poop. My precious pillows, my perfect Martha Stewart bed!!!!

Jeremy walked in and I begged him to come upstairs. "Please take care of this mess!" I begged because I felt like passing out; in a few minutes Jeremy was in the bathroom cleaning his clock!!!! WHAT ABOUT MY BED!!!!!! A clock can wait ;-) so I washed it all in the sink then in the washer... good thing Martha's bedding is not dry clean only while Jeremy discovered more surprises in Sonia's room on her little carpet and in the living room.

Mischa has been sick and throwing up. In his defense he tried escaping through the door and tore it apart as well. Mischa has been sick since last Friday. He lost a lot of weight and I will probably end up taking him to the vet tomorrow. Good Heavens! He goes to see a doctor more than anyone else in our family! I haven't even figured out a pediatrician so far!

So I went downstairs and yelled at him... letting the worst of my feelings out and he felt SO bad. He hid himself and his always proud tale was hid and he was very sad.BUT I felt better, right away... he had to know that sick dogs need to stay downstairs. Good thing too because Jeremy forgot to shut the doors to our bedrooms and I even reminded him before leaving... and I think yelling at the dog is sort of better than your husband, right?

Podarok from Utah

2009-09-28T20:30:00.004-04:00

We couldn't open our front door on Wednesday because there was a huge box on the porch!!! Babulya sent something for everyone. Pretty hand made blankets for the baby are here just on time! Sonia got two bears, a wooden building log set and an adorable sun umbrella.We had to take it with us to church this week. Plus the box itself turned into a great fun! Jeremy's suit pants arrived all fixed and we also got a box of delicious Russian chocolates. Thank you so much!

On Sunday night we drove to DC temple for a concert with Mormon orchestra and Jenny Oaks... a family friendly event! Sonia loved looking at all the instruments, a harp was new to her. She sat through the whole concert and was very attentive.

Happy Birthday Mischa!

2009-09-22T20:31:00.006-04:00

Mischa turned one year old today... our big wrinkly puppy ;-)He is Sonia's boddy and they chase each other around the house. He also takes Jeremy on early morning walks and late night bike rides. He helps me get up in the morning and go for a jog. He is a good boy. Sonia and I made a birthday hat for him; it kept falling down. We decorated his big farmer's market bone with a candle and sang him Happy Birthday song. He was not so sure about putting fire on his bone but then he licked it like a lolly pop and ate it like ice cream.

George Washington's Grist Mill

2009-09-20T21:39:00.010-04:00

I left my camera home on Saturday morning when we went biking to the Huntley Meadows. After conquering a huge hill and riding for about six miles, we all felt pretty good about myself ;-) The best part was walking through the wilderness, enjoying fields of yellow and purple flowers and watching Mischa run wild. Sonia found two good mushrooms; she picked them up and carried them most of the way back. We picked some wild flowers and put them in our hair.

I did bring camera to the Grist Mill where a miller talked about how everything works. We looked at a huge water wheel spinning and causing the action.

Corn goes in and gets milled by two huge stones.

Then it comes out and goes through a lengthy process of sorting fine, medium and rough one. A new mill that required only two people to operate cut costs and was huge money maker... the whole process was automated.

We also watched how whiskey was made and on the way back Sonia told papa that we are going to the store to buy some whiskey ;-) I asked her what are we going to do with it. She thought for a minute and said we are going to try it! Oh, Dear! Good heavens... I've got to watch where we take her ;-)

On Sunday Sonia wore her new dress to church. I made it from very pretty corduroy that was 40 percent off at Hancock's Fabrics. It is a first piece of clothing I have ever made and it turned out pretty well. I even got a few compliments in church. It has two pieces for now: a dress and pants. I will also make a matching hair piece. Sonia asked for it Monday morning; it is one of her new favorites ;-) I just might make another one for her and a matching one for myself!

Learning as we go

2009-09-17T15:00:00.006-04:00

At the Sherwood library yesterday Sonia used scissors for the first time.She held them to the end and didn't want to give them back to the teacher... so we had to stop at Walmart on the way back ;-) After story time we also went into a children's reading room and Sonia ran circles on the alphabet carpet for about forty minutes. Hopping like a frog around,She would stop, name letters on the carpet and words.At the end she could name them all in the very silly song ;-) She couldn't figure out what Yo yo was so we've got to find one. Another mom came in with a three-year-old and Sonia told her about all the letters and words in the reverse order... Sonia sort of read them right of the carpet ;-) I have to say as much as I wanted to get going... I did feel just a little proud. All this running, hopping like a frog and singing turned rather educational ;-)

Today we hosted our weekly play group with Alyssa and Clair so we put our new art supplies to good use. The theme of the day was colors: we read books, did rhymes and sang songs then I let girls choose two colors of paper. Sonia wanted pink and yellow, Clair chose black and white and Alyssa just wanted purple so I added light pink to hers.

Then all chose their little animals to glue in the middle of the page and the work began. Cutting with scissors, squeezing glue, pealing off stickers might seem easy but for the girls it was hard work ;-) and lots of fun. Sonia said her pink flamingo is eating a crab ;-)

Sonia actually cut out all little pieces by herself, placed them on with lots and lots of glue then added some stickers. I can't believe she can do it all! Children grow rather slow, at times they seem not (unlike puppies; Mischa was potty trained at an age of four months) but they surely grow in most amazing ways. What a joy it was watching these little girls today!

Joys of the week

2009-09-15T21:36:00.005-04:00

Just under an hour drive and we were at the temple. Thank you, Valerie, for watching Sonia. We had a good time there and ran into some friends from LA. It was even more special because it might be awhile before we make it back... with our new baby almost here.

Sonia and her little friend Alyssa in the kitchen while we were making peach pies last week. They are such silly girls! Sonia showed Alyssa around the house and they had all the fun you can have... climbing into papa's bed and jumping into mama's pillows, running around and chasing a dog, getting wet in lala pool and giggling in the kitchen chair.

I finally discovered an affordable sand at Home Depot that is also kid friendly. Last night papa cleaned out lala pool and made it into a sand box to Sonia's pure delight. Jeremy got into it and they built a castle.

They dug and dug and dug until and past dinner time.

Sonia can't wait until Thursday when her little girlfriends come to play.

A Guest on the patio

2009-09-10T15:00:00.004-04:00

As we walked in the house after story time today I heard Sonia yell: "Baboo (her word for Russian butterfly) is eating my peach!! Get it back! It is mine!"

I looked out the window and she was right. A beautiful creature came to visit and enjoy tree ripened peach from the farmer's market. I actually bought a whole bushel of peaches last Tuesday for $15 so there is still plenty for Sonia. But she tells me baboo can have them all; Sonia needs that one.

I was not in a hurry ;-) After all we were about to eat some broccoli and shells for lunch. Sonia changed her mind in a few minutes after observing a beau with words "Baboo doesn't eat shells, baboo likes peaches. When baboo is finished, Sonia'll get it back."

My wise little girl ;-)

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-08T13:05:00.009-04:00

Going out and exploring a new city brings joy to all of us. After blowing bubbles and eating cereal we were ready for a day.
The heat of the summer is gone; at the Smithsonian's Arthur M. Sackler Gallery we went to see "The Tsars and the East" and diplomatic gifts, presented to the Russian tsars by emissaries of the Ottoman sultans of Turkey and the Persian shahs of Iran.Few itmens have been seen outside Russia. And if you ever get to visit Moscow Kremlin, you probably won't find it there because 95 percent is in storage. We all discovered something we liked best: Sonia loved a pocket watch adorned with jewels, Jeremy fine arms, swords, armor and horse trappings sparkling with gemstones, my faves were two axes made of gold.
It is pricey to ride an old carousel on the Mall walk. The sign reads: this carousel was manufactured by the Allen Hershel Co. circa 1940s and erected here 1967. Every time we came near it last summer I would tell Sonia that we'll ride it when papa is with us. The day was here and she was brave. First, they both rode, then Sonia got a little worried,
then big worries came and papa had to hold her tied. On the way out she was asking and wailing to go again.
Watching papa and Sonia walk and skip around a fountain in the Sculpture Garden brought treasured memories of my own growing up in the city. That is what city kids love and with some luck you might even get to jump in ;-) Unforgettable. My mom used to hold my hand when I was little and here they go... hand in hand about three times around.
I am getting as big as a house... about five weeks left or maybe a bit less...
My Imperial knight of Spain clad in armor next to the battle field at the National Gallery of Art ;-) Imagine him on a huge horse. I would be scared to come close to... good thing Jeremy didn't have this stuff on when we met at BYU.

On the way to church

2009-09-06T16:21:00.003-04:00

Saturdays and Sundays are best days of the week because we get to be with papa. Plus we go to church on Sunday. Today Sonia and I hang out on the back seat because the front was occupied by Maxwell. He is from Ghana and is interested in our church so we pick him up.

Sun glasses on.

Glasses on the head.

I love Sonia and want another girl. Today after church Valerie told me that she will gladly take a boy if I have one. She has two girls already. Hooray!!! Then we will just try again for a little girl.

Then back home Sonia and papa were walking Mischa and I was supposedly making dinner but actually snapping pictures of the two in their Sunday best.

Peaches and pies

2009-09-05T18:22:00.006-04:00

Eastern market in DC is the biggest farmer's market in the area with a neighborhood resembling up and coming Park Slope. Close to the capitol young white people are settling down; a few blocks away I would be a bit scared driving after the sun goes down.

At the market there is as much art and crafts as food. Prices are not friendly, not as much variety as I am used to having in New York and there are just not so many good deals.
We found some good Honeycrisp apples, basil, green beans, corn, okra, huge bones for Mischa and sausages for Jeremy.

Best of all was getting free peaches ;-) I asked for some soft peaches I could use for making a pie and a farmer told me "if you dare to pick out those under there, they are free." Yes, I bent over and picked them out of the box!!!!

We made a scrumptious pie for dinner.

Instead of making a nutritious dinner, we had ice cream and pie because it took some time and effort.

It was our first time buying ice cream since we lived in New York. We make our own ice cream in Vita Mix with frozen strawberries and bananas. Sonia couldn't believe the sequence of events. Jeremy was in seventh heaven or surely close to it! I have to add this morning there was nothing left of the peach pie ;-) I should make another one!

Things that go

2009-08-31T14:54:00.010-04:00

Last week we found books on all things that go at the library... even a Construction Alphabet with trucks like Quad-axle Lowbed and Knuckleboom Loader. Sonia was elated to read all these ;-) She is rather an avid reader and Jeremy learned that "Laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation." Then on Saturday we went on the road trip to take a train "Metro" and a trolley.Looking at the map and talking about a yellow metro line that papa takes to work everyday. On the train we saw big buildings, roads, freeways, cars, airport with planes taking off, rivers, boats and lots of tunnels. Jeremy said he has never paid so much attention to what passes him by on the way to work.

Our trolley ride brought as much delight and excitement ;-)

We also were lucky to listen to the glass harp once again. I could spend a whole afternoon enjoying this music on the steps to the Torpedo Art Factory. Throughout the centuries people used crystal glass because only crystal could produce sound. Mr. Turner started using regular glass but with distilled water. It worked because there is nothing binding; a water without minerals produces wonders. Mr. Turner currently uses 60 cups and is ready to add another octave soon.

Busy, busy day! Sonia was glad to get back on a trolley. We skipped looking at the boats and getting into a rowboat because retiring for a little nap was a priority for everyone and so we did.

On Sunday Sonia put her lovies on the table and fed them lots of corn. Jeremy thought it was the cutest thing on earth and helped Sonia pick all the kernels of the floor when lovies finished their dinner. Good thing!! Because I was not about to dive under the table to sweep three cups of corn ;-)

Papa's work

2009-08-26T17:02:00.007-04:00

After going to Lunch Bunnies at a local library, we stopped at the Oshkosh store to find something for Sonia's hair. It turned out they don't carry anything for the hair... too bad because we all out of the nice Oshkosh scrunchies from at an outlet in St. George.

However, Sonia discovered a Lego table. I am still working on finding wooden building blocks, Lego's and underbed train table for her on craigslist. Sonia quickly got a taste of it and spent a good hour and a half working hardBuilding papa's work.

What does he do there? Takes naps ;-)

Sonia also built a piano for mama. And then decided to construct a whole complex of buildings for papa to work in.

After watching papa play baseball with his US Tax Court team the other week, Sonia decided ball games is what her papa does for living. She believes papa plays BIG Ball everyday at work ;-) plus he takes a fun train rides to get there.

We also ventured out to look at the George Washington estate last week. This is an original breed of hogs that used to room around the forest, almost wild until time came when men went out to catch them and make them into pork chops.

The silly things that matter most

2009-08-23T05:40:00.010-04:00

We woke up and had a lovely morning on our sixth anniversary together. I busied myself with making breakfast and getting ready for a day out of the house... it was Sonia's first time being away for about eight hours... easy for her, hard for me ;-) What a blessing her papa is to me and to our whole family!!! He woke up, took care of the dog, of the overgrown lawn and played with Sonia strawberry short cake softballWe got a glove, a ball and a bat last night... Sonia and papa played and played and ran around making joyful memories of our special day.

By eleven we seemed to manage to get to Valerie's house... the smell of her home filled with whole-wheat, home-made-from-scratch-starting-with-grinding-wheat-berries waffles made me want to linger there longer but it was time to go...

"Don't get too excited because all the activities are a bit silly today," humbly noted Jeremy on the metro train to DC. The metro tracks are elevated and offer a beautiful Bird's eye view of Alexandria before diving into the ground on the DC side of the Potomac river. I kept thinking that Sonia would be thrilled to ride the train with us. She has been talking about papa ridding big choo choo everyday of the week. The ride was worth every penny and unlike New York subways was comfortable with Moscow style huge metro stations and escalators.

We walked pass the Embassy row on the way to our first destination... the Textile museum. With my recent sewing hobby looking at treasures of Amish quilters was a pure pleasure. Hand stitching and color take your breath away.The Road to Heaven movie about Amish communal way of living ended with words "Our way to Heaven is narrow, not broad, and it is not for everyone; there are other ways too but that is what we choose."

Then Jeremy took me to Corcoran Gallery of Art for a quick walk through and I ended up discovering John Singer Sargent, the pre-eminent American expatriate painter of the late 19th century. Not his main portrait works but landscapes especially French girl fishing captivated me; we shall go back and see "Sargent and the Sea" special exhibit that is coming up in September.

Drops of rain turned into a warm Southern thunder storm outside as we headed to old town Alexandria. Well, I am romantic and you can simply steal my heart with this sort of antique trolley ride through King street. Best of all it was free.

With an inside as good as an outside.

To the river! On the boat!

On this rainy afternoon we turned into the only passengers on the private historic tour of Potomac river and an old Town. Where does Santa spend his summers? That is right... here on the boat. The captain let me drive the boat.... to my complete horror... I even had to turn the whole thing around on the way back and was told not to run into other boats that wondered what on earth I was doing at the wheel. Gladly I gave up my river watching duty ;-)

Listening to Jamey Turner glass harp outside the Torpedo factory was a special treat on the way back. He tunes up each glass when it goes flat with more or less water and pardon the rain, the music is simply phenomenal. Once again I wished for Sonia to be with us!

We ended our day adventure with fine dining at Vermilion. Tasteful atmosphere, fresh local produce, soft shell crab and melting in the mouth halibut (while Jeremy experienced buffalo steak of the same qualities) left us with desire to come back to this paradise of good food, peace and quiet.

Oh, what a day!!! How grateful I am to have an eternal companion and how could he ever figure out a day like this? Can I add it didn't cost a fortune either; all including metro fare was under $50. It does help to have excellent planning skills, work hard (Jeremy's volunteering this summer paid for the meal at Vermilion) and be the most desirable and capable guy of making "silly" miracles ;-) I love you!!!! What a pleasure to spend a whole day with you!!!!

The lady who snapped this shot said... "Let there be as many happy days in your lives together as there are rain drops today..."

Oh, irresponsible parents! We were an hour late to get back. Thank you, Valerie and Graton for your patience, kindness to Sonia and we hope to return this favor! Thank you for keeping our Sonia safe and happy!!! Sonia did well the whole day and as usually kids do got super tired... I think I was a bit selfish for eight hours straight so for now we decided not to leave our two-year-old for a whole day. Oh, the joy of parenting!!!! Choices, choices, choices!!!

Fun in the sun with lala pool

2009-08-15T15:45:00.004-04:00

This treasure was posted last week and has quickly become one of Sonia's faves. It holds water for now; later in the year I'll fill it up with sand. Who can pass on the little pool and making pancakes with papa sitting right next to you?

We even hosted a small party with Claire to enjoy our lala pool. Sonia fills her pool with snakes, frogs and plays with her kitchen stuff while I am finishing up my baby sewing.

On Friday I was spoiled!!! Jeremy took me to one of the best salons in downtown Alexandria. I got a fresh cut. Carla did a great job. Even being seven months pregnant with a toddler next to me, I received lots compliments from people passing by ;-) What a great self esteem booster! But what matters most of all is this guy and he loved my new look! We also got desert at a local bakery and took this Italian baguette home for dinner... this is what I love about being close to a city!

First sleep over!

2009-08-08T17:41:00.004-04:00

We loved playing with Audrey and Alyssa last weekend! On Friday night we ate pizza and then went to a play ground; I chased after three kids: one was running around in just undies because I forgot diaper bags for everyone;-)
I was also a bit concerned about putting everyone to bed but it turned out much easier than I expected. After a bath and story time, Sonia and Alyssa chatted for a little while using all communication devises available to two-year-old girls... but then they fell asleep and didn't wake up until the morning.

In the morning, we made some jummy whole wheat muffins and headed to a bowling ally. Sonia wanted to go because she saw a coupon on the fridge with little girls rolling balls. None of the girls has ever been... First it was fun to pick out the balls ;-) Sonia wanted yellow, Audrey chose green, Alyssa picked blue and Jeremy decided on orange.
Then everyone played the game but Sonia. She was way too worried about balls disappearing and not coming back. She whaled each time someone rolled the ball and was thrilled to get it back. Our coupon worked wonders and we got everything including shoes for only $3 ;-) Watch out, Mama! Sonia is already asking to go again!

Thanks for coming and having fun with us!!!!

2009-08-05T12:29:00.007-04:00

Two wonderful days flew by with friends coming and visiting from Florida, Utah and even London ;-) We had sucha great time! I am still amazed at how we could find a place to sleep for everyone ;-)

Alan, Amy and Avery are moving from Florida to Utah and driving across the country so they stopped by our place on Monday; Debbie couldn't miss a party and flew in all the way from Phoenix; then Chelsey joined us last night on her way back from London.

Elder Sackett got special permission to visit with his family and friends for an hour. He didn't break any rules! What a lucky missionary and even more so his mom, Debbie!

We went to Subway and enjoyed company of two great missionaries almost off duty ;-)

Sonia and I made it to the National Museum of Art story time and learned about New York by George Bellows. I feel good because Sonia knows words like foreground and background ;-) She also loved watching a painter making copy of the painting... way fun! Then with oil pastels Sonia created this piece of art called "Red Bush" ;-)

We ventured out to a Space Museum. Somehow I felt a hint of cold war winds passing me by. Sonia had fun with Amy at the Wright brothers exhibit. From Debbie Sonia learned that rockets go up in space and missiles blow up. Last night we enjoined one of the most touristy activities Washington DC has to offer... visiting the memorials. Here we are at the new WWII with a fountain and lights.Note: Alan and Amy have been saying "Show your teeth" to Avery to get her to smile. Sonia thought that she should join and so she did... that is the way we brush at night. What a silly little goose ;-)

Blackberries in the backyard

2009-07-30T21:24:00.006-04:00

Today we spent whole day trying to catch up on some sleep and baby quilting activities. At the end of the day Mischa had to go out and so we ventured into the Southern humid afternoon... to find some berries about twenty yards away from our home.Sonia's delight and berry picking skills motivated me to run back home and grab a camera. I think there were about five berries hiding in the little chicks ;-)
First time picking berries all by herself! Blackberry bushes have huge thorns... I pricked my finger and it still hurts but that didn't stop Sonia even a little bit.
On Wednesday we explored water buoyancy at Tiny Friends. Raced around with cans of water. Researched things that float and sink.Sonia watched Audrey launch and race her little boat.

Jewels of Washington DC

2009-07-28T15:31:00.003-04:00

What about going on American adventure? All is possible when you've got a friend ;-) Audrey is five and she is legally registered for Stories in Art at the National Gallery of Art. Well, Sonia is not but she can easily pass for a very short four-year-old, right?

Today we visited a farm... The Cornell Farm by Edward hicks. Sonia listened well and raised her little hand when questions were asked. She even said that cows and horses were right there (meaning on the foreground). We looked at the painting from different angles. The story of it took us all the way back to 1848. These cows, pigs, sheep and horses were prize-winning animals at the Agricultural Society fair. Hicks painted each animal with its unique features... it is a heard of individual portraits!

Then we read Sally Goes to the Farm by Stephen Huneck. What a fun place to come and there is so much to learn! The story telling was also top of a line.

Making a barn where animals live and drawing next to Audrey is the best of all worlds.
Sonia is not four yet... but with me as her mother she gets to do all sorts of stuff. We even got her a passport and her first animal stamp today. At the end we'll get a prize!!! We just need to make two more trips this summer... we are going on adventure ;-)

We also saw some cool five-hundred-year old armor and knight regalia including an armor for seven year old Philip III of Imperial Spain. We even got to try some things on... silly, silly Valerie ;-)

but nothing can hurt you with this kind of outfit!

Fish market in DC

2009-07-27T07:54:00.005-04:00

Just a few blocks from the mall there is an old fish market, the Main Avenue Warf. Crabs, lobsters and fish are sold from floating barges. We got a feel of real DC; it is most definitely not a touristy spot.
Jeremy has been thinking about a crab feast for a while now and so we ventured out to find something good. We got a great deal at this stand... 15 crabs for $25. And they cook them for you right there too! I got some useful advise from a regular on girl crabs vs male crabs. We got some blue male crabs... since we don't eat crab eggs at this point ;-)
Plus some clam chowder and fresh oysters filled our tummies right on the spot. On the way home I had to fish Jeremy out of a trunk of our car; he disagrees but it looked like crabs would have been gone... he even had his hands inside the bag! He was just checking on the crabs ;-)
At home we had a real feast.Fresh crab is delicious; it's worth living on the East coast! Sonia ate crab as quickly as I could crack it for her. My little crab eater ate as much or even more than I. Last Friday papa joined us for a story time at the Alexandria city library. We love coming here, reading books, singing songs and learning new things each weak.

To eat or not to eat... is it a question?

2009-07-22T22:11:00.010-04:00

At Tiny Friends Lindy found a crayfish.Kids were fascinated by it and it nicely blended into our theme of the day "Camping and painting rocks." We also made our own trail mix, Nummy! Then somehow or perhaps because we live next to Huntley Meadows, Lindy handed us this creature in the paper bag. Jeremy almost ate it right then thinking it was a bag of trail mix. It was half dead at that point.

When we came home, Jeremy remembered about him and I put poor creature in the bowl of cold water. Amazingly it came back to life.

Then we ran around Alexandria and found a huge mirror at Ross to hang above the fireplace. I love how all decorations turned out. Three little birds are Sonia's favorites.

We also put up all our pictures in the living room.

This picture is taken last Christmas. We just set up a tripod at Aspen Grove and took several shots with the mountains. The frames are from Aaron Brother's in LA, Ca. They have amazing sales twice a year.

Mom, I placed your birthday gift where it looks best with an oak stair case and you can easily see it going through our front door. Sonia always stops and looks at her great grandparents ;-)

After living in New York, I gain huge respect and appreciation for pot racks. They are space savers!!! It makes my kitchen so much more functional.

At night we went to find our crayfish a home in the near by creek. Sonia was super concerned throughout the day because papa kept making remarks such as, "Why don't we just cook him!" On the way there we saw a huge turtle under a rock. The sun was setting; there was magic in the air. And then we let our prisoner out. He quickly found a home under a rock and felt much more safe than in my salad bowl.

My perfect day

2009-07-18T23:09:00.004-04:00

No pictures and I will regret it to the last but here is the run down of our perfect day. It is impossible to keep everyone happy... but today was one of those perfect days I want to remember ;-)
1. Jeremy got a bike rack of craigslist. Hooray!! (this made him very happy) We can now load our bikes and go anywhere!!!
2. We went to a stake dance class and learned some country foxtrot and polka. Jeremy got some great leading tips from a good friends of mine at BYU, Jade (that made my day!)
3. Sonia had Audrey and Alyssa over. We went to Huntley Meadows and found four huge frogs and an old grumpy man.
4. Mischa got to run around a play ground and played with a boxer who was trying to "box" him with his paw.
All four of us super happy and tired!

Making ice cream at Tiny Friends

2009-07-18T22:30:00.007-04:00

First we made some fun ice-cream art cones with pompoms. Sonia worked on the cone by herself and not everything went smoothly as you can see ;-)

Last week at the library someone thought that these girls were sisters and that I was expecting a third one ;-)

Then we put some ice and rock salt in the plastic bags and shook it for a long time... I guess that was sort of a pioneer way to make ice cream. Although pioneers were probably too busy or too cold to attempt it. Valerie and girls were already eating their precious little bites of ice when Sonia was wailing for ice cream and I was frantically still shaking our bag. She even fell of the bench... poor girl, her mom just couldn't make this work. Thank you, everyone for pitching in and for helping us out ;-) We were the last ones to create something that resembled frozen paste... Sonia loved it ;-) Sonia put tons of candy and Oreos in it.

There is something baking in the kitchen

2009-07-15T15:18:00.006-04:00

Taking a little rest before going to church and playing hide and seek behind my chair ;-)

This week was the last week of volunteering for papa and on Sunday we surprised him with a small torte. Two cute cooks ;-)

Eating plain flower is so much fun.

Is there a rule against licking?

Half of our dessert was gone before the next morning... it was delicious ;-) Another half we shared with Valerie and the girls on Monday. We also went to look at the Huntley Meadows pond with frogs. All girls and the frog ;-)Audrey touched it and then Mischa jumped into the pond stirring dirt and scaring the frogs.

Many blessings; our new friends

2009-07-12T15:50:00.005-04:00

We are lucky to be in the same ward with Valerie, Audrey and Alyssa. Alyssa is two years old and Audrey is five and Sonia loves playing with these girls. Last Wednesday we made a caterpillar at Tiny Friends while learning about healthy foods and snacks. On Friday we all went to a library for a story time and Sonia could play with the girls all day long ;-)
We also had to get Mischa a new leash at Petco last week. He ate his last one and I have to say leashes are so expensive! While there we asked to touch a ferret. Mischa went berserk over them. He stuck his muzzle into a cage and didn't want to leave

Choo Choo train at Burke Lake

2009-07-08T15:18:00.006-04:00

When I was two years old, my mom and I rode a miniature train in Ekat Central Park. Even today I remember that train ride, conductor and the excitement of the day. There is no pictures but my memory preserved it better than a camera would have.

We had to go see the Burke Lake Park last Monday because they also have a train. The rail rode has been around for more than thirty years. It has a real train station not polished like Disney even with spider cobs. The engine has been replaces about four years ago and this one is new. Sonia had her snack and then we rode the train. It went really fast and she finished riding in my lap.

We walked around a lake on the five-mile fitness trail that reminded me of the same type of trails in Russian parks.

Then we enjoyed a ride on the carousel. Sonia rode a white stallion all by herself with just a little help of my finger.Second time Sonia rode a train with papa. She gave her ticket to the conductor. She was excited to see a tunnel one more time (tunnels are our big faves at the moment) and go over the bridge/ fridge, as Sonia calls it. On the way out a train engineer let us sit in his chair. He showed Sonia how to operate a train and let her touch the buttons. I hope Sonia remembers this outing like I do mine.

Our Fourth of July in Alexandria

2009-07-05T15:50:00.014-04:00

On Friday we rode our bikes to the Potomac river. Here is how we do it. Papa with Sonia in the trailer and I usually help with Mischa. This time we took a new rout avoiding super crowded highway. We fed the geese; ate some pita bread and lots of watermelon; and made funny faces.

Yesterday we started our day with a delicious breakfast at our church! We missed early morning walk at 8:30 am but got there for some delicious whole wheat and buckwheat pancakes, eggs and fruit. It was Mischa's first time going to church with us; he would come every week if he could. We played games and I got Jeremy with a water balloon. Plus he spilled apple juice all over himself... Sonia thought water balloon shouldn't be thrown at people so lightly at all. She tried to take great care of hers and not to pop it.Then we went to see chickens at our friends house. First time touching real chickens for all of us! Sonia wanted to pet them all. This chick is on the bottom of the pecking order. The smallest one of all of them!

Back home we baked and decorated Fourth of July Cream and Berry Torte. Sonia rolled the dough with me, and cut out little stars and eagles.

Making a torte with mama is hard work and lots of fun!

We layered the cake with berries. Is this a right strawberry? No, try again, honey.Can I put blueberries here? Right here? Our barbecue torte turned out so festive! Thank you, papa, for all the pictures!! Babulya will be very glad we posted so many ;-)

The barbecue at the Pokock's house was fun and we got to know more people in our ward. Jeremy Munns's sister with her two little girls just moved into our ward and we are so excited to get to know them better!

Then we ventured to watch fireworks next to the new Army memorial, close to the Pentagon. The rodes were empty and we lucked out with the perfect parking spot. Papa is an amazing driver! Sonia loved Big Boom Booms and still talks about them every now and then. Mischa was courageous and didn't get scared at all. He got so much attention; people were even taking pictures with him that he was truly a happy dog ;-)

My little chef

2009-07-02T17:16:00.009-04:00

What a great find this little second step kitchen turned into. To pick it up we drove all the way to Falls Church all by ourselves and didn't even get lost!

It took me a few weeks looking... today it was listed on craigslist: a perfect little kitchen that fits well into our small living room.

It was priced just right for us at $30 and it came with tons of play food. Sonia is in her little heaven ;-)

It is double sided and you can go around to use a table and some shelves. It also has a refrigerator, microwave, stove, sink, coffee pot (we pretend it is a pot for hot cereal), light, clock and a phone.Sonia has been super busy cooking eggs, sandwiches, beans, rice and going shopping with her little shopping cart.

How about sitting inside of a cart?

We have had many breakfasts, lunches and dinners. When missionaries stopped for dinner tonight, Sonia took a little break but she was back in the kitchen shortly after.

Hidden Pond treasures

2009-07-02T17:02:00.007-04:00

This morning we found a Hidden Pond where we can look at and touch snakes, frogs, stinks and geckos. It is not free like a Bean museum story time in Utah but it is only $2 so we can do it! Today we looked at a brown snake. Sonia dared to touch it. She was not afraid!

I took pictures and watched it slither across the floor. Then we observed a corn snake. We also went to look at the pond and discovered wild geese in the pond full of algae.We must bring some bread to feed them!

Mischa ran around, jumped in the pond, got dirty and chased some squirrels. We also found an excellent playground with lots and lots of fun climbing ladders.Sonia on the way up. Every playground is a bit different; it makes for so much more exploration fun.

Mama, Sonia is up!!

Twice a month we will venture out over here to explore new things. Next time we'll report on Roly Polys... I don't even know what they are ;-)

Fourth of July kick off with our new friends

2009-07-01T14:06:00.006-04:00

This morning we got our snacks together and ran to a Grist Mill Park to make new friends and have some Fourth of July fun. We arrived a little bit late but still got to make a patriotic hat.
Sonia helped gluing on the red stripes and white stars.
She also made her own name tag... all by herself!
She was not all too happy to wear the hat for a long time. But she lasted through a short Patriotic Parade. And she loved her little flag and a wind mill. We joined the Parade and took some pictures for papa who is volunteering today.
Mischa had a chance to run around and he didn't mind a hat at all.
We are happy to be a part of the Tiny Friends Playground this summer and we can't wait until the next week's Health Picnic. This is our new friends and we will add Sonia to this flag soon!
Today we also took Mischa to see a Shar Pei doctor again. The doctor says Mischa is healing well and might just win an AKC show! His opinion on the eye is that there will be little or no scarring from the bite. Stitches are now out and a funky collar is history, Hooray!
Yesterday in our efforts to find some storage bins for Sonia's toys we stopped at TJ Max. I didn't find the bins but Sonia found two cool trucks.
She raced them all around the store and an old man asked me if I had a boy or a girl. Going way too fast! She would cry out: Watch Out!!
Then she fell down and that was an end to all fun.

Huntley Meadows

2009-06-29T08:23:00.005-04:00

Looking outside our deck, a beautiful view opens up with green trees, little streams and lots of singing birds. I wake up each morning to a chorus of all sort of birds and at night we hear owls hooting in the dark. The temperature around our home is much lower than in the downtown Alexandria because of 1500 acres of Huntley Meadows.The air quality is simply pristine... and no it is not a park. It is a Nature Preserve meaning everything is done to keep people out of it. Sonia on the way to see the Meadows with her princess hair.

She loves doing her hair!

The history states that military had this piece of land until 1975 when it was transferred to the state government. The military drained all the water off it and tried turning it into a flight fields. Then when civil authorities took over they wanted to build a park but beavers flooded a whole chunk of the area. Yes, beavers built this huge dam and flooded everything... I'd say, darn beavers. Now there is lots of them residing fully protected, there is only two ways into the forest and both walks are no longer than a mile; they don't connect with each other. I would think it was one of the cheapest projects that this county has accomplished.

Plus there is lots of super hipper naturalists who are researching effects of deer over population... If you detected notes of sadness, you are right. I think it is a huge loss and if a nature could recuperate itself in such a short time, if there are migrating birds in the Zoo who build their nests next to busy streets, why not turning this huge piece of land into something more? Building a few loops of trails so people could exercise and run in the park, some playgrounds for little kids to explore and learn about nature where kids can feel, touch and play and doing some landscaping perhaps might spoil life for these beavers a little bit... but they would be just fine;-)

For now we take our walks and look at ducks, listen to a choir of frogs, watch beavers, cranes, and hoping to see a red fox...

By the rules Mischa is not supposed to be here at all... however ducks didn't seem to mind him and he was on his best behavior, making much less noise than Sonia.

If there are so much deer why wouldn't they introduce wolves to control for overpopulation? oh, I forgot not everyone is so nature oriented even in Alexandria ;-)

Sonia's room filled with sunshine

2009-06-28T21:34:00.007-04:00

Sonia's room is turning lovely! I picked colors for the walls before we moved in. We situated Sonia's new furniture and I am almost done making her bedding. It is my first real pieced quilt; I picked fabric, cut it, sewed it and even quilted the whole thing all by myself. The quilt, snugly super-soft blanket, bed skirt, bedding and window curtains are finished. A small shed on the picture is our small storage place where we keep our bikes and Mischa's food. It is small but we are very glad to have it for all sorts of outdoor stuff. I am still designing and sewing a sham for the pillow. It took a thought and effort to design the curtains and the bedskairt but it is all done!

I am trying to figure out some art for walls and thinking about painting something with Sonia or gluing something fun this fall. The laundry hampers for Sonia and a baby came from TJ Max and add to color scheme of things.

I also found a matching shoe organizer that should help organize little things and some toys.

Sonia moved into her new bed as soon as we arrived here. She still sometimes takes naps in her crib but she loves her new bed.Sonia wakes up and plays in her room in the mornings then she says "Sonia wake up" and comes to snuggle in our bed. I think I am so much into organizing and sewing because it is a part of getting ready for a new baby. This week I plan to start on cutting fabric for baby's new bedding and I hope to get it all finished.

Trips to DC Zoo and week in passing

2009-06-28T16:10:00.009-04:00

Mischa is recovering and acting himself once again. Today during dinner he ran out of the back door with one of the silliest of his looks. As upset as I was about him not minding Jeremy or me, I couldn't help but smile at him sprinting away with a funky curl in his tail and a cone head. On Friday we went to a Shar Pei doctor. They told us his eye is scarred up and he will recover from the injury. His eyelids are healing quick and we will drive back to remove sutures next Wednesday.

We ventured out to the Zoo twice last week... all I have to say is that there is a reason it is free. There are no feeders of any kind. We couldn't donate our quarters and feed, pet and make friends with ducks and geese. All animals including cows, donkeys, sheep and goats are "on special diets" and thought of as an endangered species. The zoo also lacks any kind of animal show that we love to see at a Hogle Zoo and in San Diego. Beside this disappointing fact, we got to see a few fun things.

Orangutans walked above our heads and looked down upon human kind.

Turtles and their babies swim in the pond.

Panda bears were resting whole day long and Zoo people watched them on a screen in their special room recording every breath... what a fun job ;-)

Woke up for a moment...

And sleeping again...

My camera ran out of the battery but we witnessed a cheetah eating her lunch, then stretching and coming next to us to drink some water from a pond. We also spent a bit of time at the bird house and saw a keeper feed the birds. If you know Sonia, you will know that watching birds is much more exciting than watching cheetahs.

We saw a pretty toucan and lots of whistling ducks. It all turned out fun and we are becoming accustomed to a whole "preservation" theme of this Zoological Park. NO more pictures!!!!

Sonia made people laugh in Costco last week. She pushed a fully loaded shopping cart all by herself. Some people thought the cart was moving on its own. It grew little legs, I suppose ;-)

On Thursday we went to the river to let Mischa ran free for the first time since he got bit. He looked funny with his Elizabethian collar on; because of it he coudn't see a thing and ran into trees, branches, and a highway. We called him a "Cone head" and Jeremy ran out in the middle of the road with words such as "We just paid a whole a lot of money... you are not about to get yourself under a car." We had to let him ran because he had to go. Mischa never can go on the leash and was holding everything since Monday. We are pround of him for being so potty trained and not ruining our house! Sonia chased some ducks into a river.

Today Jeremy and I gave talks in church and now I am hoping our good luck of not speaking in church for six years will continue. I made a promise after teaching RS lesson that I won't make any comments for the next two months to compensate for this Sunday ;-) However, I really enjoyed Jeremy's talk today and hope maybe he will receive a calling while we are here.

Grateful for my husband and filled with sorrow

2009-06-23T10:03:00.006-04:00

I dislike huskies. Our neighbors husky bit me in New York and almost bit Sonia. They seem nice. They are fluffy and act like puppies but they are unpredictable and bite with no warning. People tend to forget how closely they are related to wolves. Last night we took Mischa to a local off leash dog park. Two men and a women came in with a white husky. They didn't do much about controlling their dog until it was too late and Mischa was torn apart. We rushed him to the local animal emergency hospital. His eye all the way to the cornea was sliced and he required immediate surgery to patch up his inner and outer eyelids. The eye itself also suffered damage but we are hoping it will heal. Mischa is back home with us. Sonia kept asking where he was last night and I was missing his snores. Jeremy picked him up after surgery at 4 am.What amazed me was that husky owners didn't show any concern for my dog and claimed that Mischa bit their dog's tongue. I couldn't help but laughed at them wondering if maybe their dog bit himself while slicing my dog's face... white muzzle, mouth and teeth were covered with Mischa's blood. It was almost too much for me to check and inspect for bites this wolfishly looking dog that tried snapping at me. I checked him and no, there was no bites.

Needless to say they refused to pay a hefty medical bill; we are filing in the small claim court today and they will be forced to take responsibility for their dog actions. Thank goodness Jeremy knows what we need to do next!

Good news is that Mischa is recovering fast, he eats, drinks and doesn't like to be left home alone. He still makes very tiny whiny noises and stares in the corner of the room at times. We hope to keep him safe from scratching his stitches and he is scheduled to see a Shar Pei doctor this Friday.

Fun in the rain

2009-06-22T12:49:00.009-04:00

Venturing out and riding our bikes to the Potomac river last week turned into an adventure. On the way there it was hot and humid. I felt a bit exhausted when we got there.

First time riding somewhere is always hard for me... maybe because I don't know how much strength I need to get back home. Jeremy got some cake bread at the gas station and Sonia fed mostly the geese and the ducks and perhaps had a bite or two. Geese were a bit wary of Mischa but wanted a treat.

On the way back we faced a huge storm with lots of rain pouring over us. Jeremy said it was just as wet as when you swim in the pool. I was glad it was a warm rain. We laughed and kept going. Mischa greatly benefited and smelled good for the whole day after such a nice shower.

We also discovered another playground close by that has less mosquitoes. Sonia loves walking there,

running with her little duck

We tried out a huge slide.

Jeremy went first and got a little stuck on the way down. Sonia climbed all the way up but decided to take stairs on the way back.

This weeks joyful moments and crazy doings kept us busy and happy. Sonia washed strawberries and peaches and helped me clean kitchen floor. She also helped papa to cut grass, picked it up and put it in bags. She has been little helper with the best attitude and willingness to help at all times.

We are slowly but surely organizing our home and our lives here in Alexandria. We both are speaking in church this weeek... i really need help with that ;-) plus they asked me to teach RS lesson on the same Sunday... I wonder how not to tire everyone out. My plan is to give Jeremy as much time to speak as possible ;-)

Belle Haven with its peace and comfort

2009-06-14T17:41:00.005-04:00

Unlike the West coast that carries past and present of Spaniards, East coast looks up to English and French: "Belle Haven's" beauty is green and subtle. It gets hot and humid but the sun is quite merciful and summer thunder rains visit often. Our church, next to Potomac river, is built in the colonial style and people are wonderful. There was one things I have been told today many times.... "Your husbands hair, hmmmm. He is not in the military!?! So what brings you here?" I think most young couples move to Belle Haven area are in the military. Older folks come from all walks of life and we even have a retired Airforce One pilot who happens to be in the bishopric and who asked us to speak in a couple of weeks.
Jeremy has been asking me to cut his hair for a while and I need to get to it because it already curls up ;-) I think it is cute. Sonia's hair was done and she felt like a princess today.
We accomplished so much in the past week including finding bigger bed that fits all three plus Sonia. Again Jeremy found an amazing deal from a super nice hotel in the area that bought king size beds and then changed their minds before even using them. They decided to get custom size beds for additional luxury. Well, we greatly benefited! They also gave us a free new luxurious feather duvet, free delivery, mattress pad and feather pillows. It is my birthday present and Jeremy's Father's Day gift. Needless to say what joy it has been to sleep once again in one bed ;-) The bedding is also great.... Martha Stewart collection on sale at Macy's! I still need to decorate windows with matching curtains and put up some pictures. Our bedroom feels cozy, like home again.

Thank you, gi gi

2009-06-12T17:49:00.003-04:00

Today we got a card from great grandma Wilder. We didn't get to visit Gi Gi while in Utah because we had to move too early and all our plans fell through. Sonia loved little huggie bears on the card and we are sending our thanks to Gi Gi ;-)

Serious business

2009-06-12T16:40:00.004-04:00

Right next to our Woodstone townhouses we found an apartment complex with wonderful amenity -- a pool. Sonia has been talking about going swimming since we landed in Virginia. Today was her lucky day. Jeremy was excited too and they got right down to super important activity leaving me to enjoy their successes. If you don't know, Jeremy is super qualified to teach swimming with about two decades of experience; his former jobs involved even saving a life of a fifteen year boy while on duty.

Jeremy was determined to make this activity worth his while while Sonia was having way too much fun. I loved watching both of them:

Synchronized bubble blowing was easy because Sonia practised it with her mom in the tub for more than two years.

Floating on the back was easy too because that is how we wash our hair in the tub.

Then things got a bit more complicated: doing Big Arms.

She kicked across the pool many times.And she asked papa swim about five laps. He also had to do some cool flip turning for us.
Sonia had such a good time with her papa that she is still asleep and it is now 5pm. They shared lots of laughs even though pictures indicate Jeremy's concentration and seriousness. It is so good to have papa coach Sonia this summer. I think by the time August comes and we sign up for mommy and me, Sonia will be an expert.

cooling down in DC

2009-06-12T09:14:00.009-04:00

First couple days we, including Mischa got around in the moving truck; Jeremy spent three hectic days finding a good car for us. He found a nice 2003 automatic Hyundai for only $3500... from a wholesaler. The guy was from Afghanistan and was only making $200 on it... I love driving this little black car!!! We ventured out to see DC sights last night. First we saw WWII memorial and neglecting the warning sign at the fountain Sonia stuck her little toes into the water.

Natural history museum turned out much smaller than in New York and much less interesting than the Bean museum in Provo. They don't have fun diorama displays or story times for tots here. All animals are encased in the evolutionary displays... way too high for Sonia's eyes to see and get involved.

We found Hirshhorn sculpture garden tucked next to the National Art Gallery land and spent some time at the fountain cooling down. There also was this two-way mirror by Dan Graham that Sonia turned into a little house.

Papa "Come in!" Sonia can open and close the sliding doors all by herself.

Mama "Come in!"

After taking a little break, on we went to see the capital or mostly the fountain next to it.

Soon a nice little family of ducks with mama, papa and many quite grown up ducklings joined us; Sonia fed them all of her gold fish.

Mama duck was cautious of Mischa but couldn't pass a treat like that ;-)

On the way back I let Mischa run off leash and he chased birds and squirrels right on the mall to the public's full delight and Jeremy's pure horror.

Insect food

2009-06-10T22:25:00.003-04:00

We have a long history of close contact with all sorts of insects. In Los Angeles I had ants moving into my flower pot on the counter and showing up for dinner any time I opened a fridge. We also had termites destroy our couch and love seat. They ate it up; there was not much left.
In New York we had roaches problems and some huge Australian roaches even showed up in the dining area once. I screamed for life and found myself on the kitchen table in a split of a moment.Today we encountered first signs of insects that inhabit Virginia... ticks. I found two ticks making a meal in Mischa's ears. And Jeremy made himself available not only to mosquitoes and wasps but also a nice tick got into his pants. I found a tick on myself today too; it was crawling on my arm. If you lived in the area with ticks, please let me know if there is anything else better than checking everyone every two hours.
On the more positive note, we have seen beautiful deer right outside our french doors, gigantic frogs jumping into a stream right next to our home and people say there are red foxes the size of Mischa and coyotes in the woods next to us ;-)

Flight to Alexandria

2009-06-08T07:19:00.006-04:00

Thanks to grandma and grandpa we got to the airport an hour early. US Airways had a small messy play ground for little kids; Sonia cleaned up the toys while we were waiting. Soon we learned about mechanical difficulties on our plane. We landed in Phoenix only ten minutes late on a different one. However, because Sonia and I sat all the way back next to the bathrooms, by the time we got out and ran across the whole terminal our DC plane closed its doors. We waved "Good Bye" to a plane and to our bags that somehow made it. And headed to Courtyard Marriott to spend a night.

Sonia enjoyed the pool a bit nakie because our swimming suites were on the way to DC and we couldn't miss a chance;-) We had to swim nakie ;-) Well, I just rolled up my jeans up but Sonia took full advantage of this opportunity. She made friends with an older couple from Brazil. They helped her around the pool and played in areas I couldn't reach ;-)

We suppered on whole wheat grilled-cheese sandwiches and salad with milk from a cafe.

The next day I lost my cell phone... my diaper bag fell out of the van with stuff flying everywhere... they found it and my phone should be here shortly. The flight went well. With minor setbacks we arrived at our new home. And we love it here!