Nothing To Do....

It feels like almost every day there is "something" to do- school, classes, events- some activity becomes the center of our day and we hurry and plan to get ready for the "something." Lot's of days, that's just fine. It's nice to have a place to go, fun things to do, friends to see. But some days, when there's nothing to hurry off to, I'm reminded of all the wonderful little things that are happening right under my nose. Things so seemingly insignificant, that when I recount the days happenings they may sound silly or unimportant, but when you're fortunate enough to have the front row seat, you can feel how magical and special the day really was. The other day I got to watch Lizzy and Peter really enjoy playing with one another. I got to listen in to all the "Come on, Peters" and "Look Mommy! We're playing together! We thought of a new game!" For a few moments, I became second fiddle, and the games being created between the two of them became center stage. They played in their kitchen, had a picnic in the living room, read books together on the couch, and "drove" like maniacs in the grocery store. I've never been so happy to have "nothing" to do, because watching these two children come together so beautifully to share their time and imaginations together, was exactly what was on the schedule that day.

A Great Dye Job

I love dying Easter eggs so much! There's just something to be said for the fun traditions of the holidays. I remember dying eggs with my family as a little girl- those funny little tablets that you're never quite sure what color they'll produce, the vinegar and egg smell, using the clear crayon to make designs, putting on the stickers afterwards, using the special egg holder to dip the eggs- it's all just so great, and I always get so thrilled when I can do these same traditions with my own children. It is so darling to see the kids get so excited, and now that they are a little older, both kids really had a fun time. They both "helped" me boil the eggs, and we lined up the little cups on the counter, kids standing on chairs for a good view, as Lizzy helped me fill the cups with vinegar and water. The kids loved watching their eggs become so colorful and beautiful. When we were all finished, Peter stuck around outside for his favorite part of egg-dying: the ol' dump and pour. And I guess that's what's also special about traditions: everyone gets to make them their own!

Twins

You're wearing that too? I thought I told you I was going with gray sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers today!

The Hunt Is On!

We got together with our neighbors for an Easter egg hunt. Everyone gathered for some donuts and coffee and a quick hello with the Easter Bunny. The hunt was set up in a great way. Using several different front lawns, the eggs were hidden for the various age groups. Peter's group was first, and he had lots of fun finding his eggs. Then when he returned his eggs to the Easter Bunny (to be used next year), he gives you a prize. Lizzy's group was next, and while the kids in her group were certainly more enthusiastic, they were still little enough to avoid the full-out crazy elbow throwing search of the older kids. After all the hunts were finished, there were egg-and-spoon relays and other fun games. All the kids had lots of fun, and it looks like even Peter is warming up to the Easter Bunny:)

A Brush With the E.B.

Today Lizzy and Peter dressed up in their Sunday finest to pay a visit to the E.B. This could certainly be a case study on some sort of psychological analysis, because they couldn't be more opposed in their viewpoints on the big fella. Almost as soon as we got out of the car, Peter started waving his hands and saying "No! No!" Okay, maybe he was just being contrary (not unusual for a guy quickly approaching two), but I think although he is a man of few words, he's on to us more than he let's on. Lizzy called out, "Come on, Peter!" which is usually a sure fire way to get Peter to quickly chase after her. You could see his internal struggle: I want to be with Lizzy, but why does that scary bunny have to be there! Peter circled the bunny, staring at him apprehensively....not accepting any of his bribes or high-fives. Lizzy on the other hand, was quick to take the bunny's compliments and gifts and sat right next to him, smiling at the camera, chatting away. After much cajoling, a little voice in my head said, "Why are you trying to make your baby sit next to a weird bunny in a vest and glasses? It's kind of creepy, right?" We ended up ALL being in the picture, and it wasn't half bad. Peter even warmed up to the bunny, if only from a distance, waving good-bye to him. Maybe next year we'll get a smiling picture......

Easter Basket Fun

Lizzy spent most of yesterday afternoon making her Easter Basket for the Easter Bunny. She began with a big piece of paper that she colored in her signature "Lizzy-style" using lots of splotches of color. Then I showed her an old teacher-trick of how to turn a flat piece of paper into a box, and she glued sequins around the outside. Then we finished with the handle and put grass and gorgeous sparkly eggs inside. Lizzy is such a careful worker! She took a LONG time to carefully do each step, and was really proud of her basket when she finished. It was really fun for me to get to spend this time with her, listening to her chit-chat, and watching her work so hard. I had one of those moments when my heart just fills up looking at that sweet face and enjoying her company so thoroughly.