The cold, long, cold winter, competition for Yogi & Lillie's first report card

The Cold, Long, Cold Winter
It's been what seems like a longer and colder than usual winter here in Chicago. On top of that, every time you turn around someone is sick. Yeah, you could blame it on preschool but when I'm the one walking around (rather, lying around as much as possible for a few days) and I'm sure I wasn't finger-painting with Lillie's class you have to come to grips that it's just all around you. No flu... knock on wood! But cold upon cold upon cold. You get the picture. If any stock might be up these days, my bet would be on P&G and/or Kimberly Clark because I KNOW the purchase of tissues has gone up in this household. Maybe this captures the season best.

A few weeks ago we did manage to sneak a walk in to CVS and Starbucks. On the way home, Lillie REALLY, REALLY wanted to stop at Hurley Park. We got in some swinging, including Charlotte's first swing ride.



Competition for Yogi

So we all know cabin fever hits adults. This year, I'm sure it has some sort of weird effect on kids, too. Some days, Lillie can give Yogi Berra a run for his money. Maybe it's lack of sunlight or just the simple act of stating the obvious which, seriously, I think the world needs more of right now. Her latest and greatest quotes include:
"Mom, that was the last show I watched because it was on last."
"It's not red because it's blue."
You truly can't argue with those statements. I love it.

Lillie's First Report Card

Today was a special day. It was my first parent teacher conference. I'm going to savor this one...and probably next year's, too, because Lillie is at her "sweetness peak". It can't last... can it? I hope so. The teacher had a glowing report for me saying that "when there's a conflict with other students, Lillie just sticks right by my side." Now, what I picture is Lillie pulling someones hair, pointing at someone else and saying "he did it!" and running to the teacher. Ok, maybe not. She is a sweet, well-behaved little lady and I am one proud Mommy today :-).

As for Patrick and myself (hey, keep reading!)we are doing well. Patrick is gathering gear for his triathlon training which includes another car. Boy, this whole "fitness thing" sure gets expensive! Truthfully, we are inheriting my mom's Explorer which should work quite well for Pat and his bike. I actually did get to see Pat in biking shorts. I PROMISE I will get pictures of the full outfit-- shoes, shorts, and helmet one day.

Twinkle Toes

Tomorrow marks a new, exciting adventure for Lillie (ok, and for me too). I have enrolled her in a "Creative Movement" class for 3-5 year olds. I'm sure the title of he class will not do it justice. I took Lillie today to get her ballet shoes. Of course, she could not wait to put them on...and the rest of her outfit. Pat is putting her to bed as I type and I will be surprised if she doesn't wake up in this tomorrow.

Christmas, Baptism, Family

Ok, so I am going to attempt to play catch-up yet again. I guess I will admit to everyone that my New Year's Resolution is to keep the blog updated.
The tree has been taken outside, the lights are down and I will still be sweeping up ("brooming" to some Borzenskis out there) pine needles well into August. But it's well worth it. Santa brought Lillie exactly what she asked for... a yo-yo. Mom and Dad, oops, Santa got off easy this year! Of course, it doesn't help when Mom and Dad don't quite know how to yo-yo. I guess I'll keep practicing.
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Santa was good to Charlotte, too, leaving her with some new, much needed socks that actually stay on her feet! I think her expression says it all..."Hey, thanks A LOT Santa!"

Lillie also received 2 fish and a small aquarium from Mom and Dad. Pinky and Orangey are the names of the fish. Can you guess what the fish look like? After a quick Christmas morning in Chicago, we headed to Lansing to join in the family fun. Oliver and Lillie shared some quality dance time together (with Grandpa B and Uncle Brian) and Lillie and Emmie played very nicely together. Which, if you have 3 year olds, that is the best present ever!!


We then headed to Lake Orion to spend time with Grandma and Grandpa H, Aunt Kim, and Wesley. Lillie had a fine time playing the guitar with Wesley and (I think) giving Grandpa H. some lessons.

The following day (December 27, 2008) Charlotte Amalie was baptized at St. Therese Church in Lansing, MI. Grandpa B., aka Deacon Dave, performed a beautiful ceremony with family and friends present. We headed home the next day and spent a quiet New Year at home. I hope that everyone had a happy and healthy holiday season! Here's to 2009. Cheers.