Thanksgiving 2009

Thanksgiving is a time that one feels compelled to list all of the things that they are thankful for. Children are asked to do it at school while adults often pause to reflect around the holiday. That being said, I am MOST thankful that today isn't significantly different than most other days. I feel that I am thankful for my family each and everyday. I feel their blessings in my life on a regular basis. There are just too many moments in my day that force me to recognize what a wonderful family I have. I feel fortunate knowing that my children feel the same. November isn't the only month that I hear how lucky Savannah feels to have her sisters and it isn't the only time that I lay in bed with my girls telling them how beautiful they are (especially deep down.) Today we were surrounded with loved ones and I am proud to say that today was just one of the many that I gave thanks for each and everyone of them!

Now for the details:

After a very relaxed morning, filled with sleeping in, the girls and I spent some time in the kitchen making apple crisp and pumpkin pie. This activity, which can go poorly with all three girls participating, went exceptionally well. There was great turn taking, patience, and joy. I had to stop and take a picture because I have waited so long to bake with all three of my girls without have to police every move.

Shortly after, we headed Mr. Byron and Miss Melissa's house. They, again, graciously shared their home and families with us. I feared that my girls would be antsy with abbreviated naps, and some unfamiliar faces, but they were fantastic. I do believe that this Thanksgiving marks the first holiday that I have not had children glued to me. There were plenty of snuggles followed by "go play" time which gave both Alex and I a time to enjoy ourselves. That we did. The girls looked so grown up considering where the three of them (Charlotte included) were three years ago. While this is Charlotte and Lila's fourth Thanksgiving, I only mark it as Adeline's third. Her first Thanksgiving was spent in the NICU and marked her hardest fight for life during her four month stay.

Today, I celebrated my girls. They used their manners, were social, and even became a little more open to dogs. Thanks to Charlotte's Uncle Justin, all three of my girls were walking Bailey by the night's end. I closed the day with some rocking with Adeline, she almost fell asleep in my arms after saying without prompting, "I love you too Mommy." After laying her down, I climbed in bed with Lila Grace and experience her falling asleep by my side for the first time in her big girl bed.


Savannah isn't in bed yet but did something quite noteworthy this morning. She brought the entire family downstairs for a gift. I had no idea she had this stored away because she had worked on these projects ages ago and sporadically. Come to find out, she had made a Talking Stick that we used to pass around while telling each other what we are thankful for. Savannah also illustrated a Thanksgiving story which was very cute. Included was a card that she had made independently, paint and all. She really touches my heart.



There is much to appreciate on this day but, as I said before, I am most thankful that we celebrate one another each and everyday.

Grandparent's Day at WCFS

Today was Grandparent's Day at West Chester Friends School. Initially, I thought this day would come and go since Savannah's Grandparents are 3,000 miles away. Thankfully, that was not the case. Savannah was given the choice to invite a special adult in lieu of a Grandparent. I didn't know if she would take to the idea and I only put it out there in conversation with no real opinion. Savannah was thrilled to hear of the option and almost immediately asked to take her beloved Miss Neely. Miss Neely and I have been raising kids side by side for years now and I am over joyed to see that it has not only impacted my life but the lives of our children.

Off Miss Neely went with Savannah to school while I stayed home with her girls and the twins. Savannah was dressed up in her uniform for the very first time and very excited. (The school only wears uniforms for special occasions. I have to say after seeing it on her, I am a big fan of uniforms!!) Grandparent's Day is quite and event at WCFS. It lasts three hours! Neely was able to see Savannah in her classroom, attend Meeting for Worship with Savannah, and watch Savannah perform with her class. There were many special touches along the way. The school contacted the out of town Grandparents and had them send cards to their grandchild. I thought it was an extremely generous effort. Savannah was very surprised when she received her card. Neely bought Savannah books at the book fair for both Savannah and to donate to the library in Savannah's name. Savannah can't wait to go to the library and see her name in the book. Miss Neely thinks of everything when it comes to touching my little girl's heart.

After debriefing about the day, I was surprised to learn that Savannah was chosen to play an important role in her classroom. One of the first events of the day was to have the students explain different classroom routines to the grandparents. T. Michelle had chosen Savannah to go first. She bravely stood up and told the students and grandparents about the Morning News. Each day the class does Morning News which involves the date and a piece of new from one student. After her explanation, Savannah had to write the following sentence on the board (She chose the sentence). "I went to Dutch Wonderland last Sunday Night." I guess she did a pretty good job with the hard words. I couldn't believe she would choose a sentence with words she didn't know how to spell. Savannah is thoughtful enough to choose a sentence that she could ace if she wanted to. I asked Savannah how she felt getting up in front of everyone and this is what she said. "I felt a little shy but I tried not to show it." Wow, I am overjoyed. Is this the same girl that used to follow me around the house because she was too nervous to be in a different room or floor than me? Is this the same girl who had to be told to speak louder and look at people's eyes when saying hello? According to Miss Neely, WCFS has cracked her shell and helped Savannah emerge. I couldn't be more proud. Having been a teacher, I know the type of student I would choose to represent the class first, especially when asking them to perform a tough writing task. I just can't believe that that child is my daughter. It just goes to show that children never cease to amaze.

On this Thanksgiving Eve, I am immensely thankful for my oldest. She is sweet, loving and thoughtful. She thanked Miss Neely for spending the day with her time and time again . Savannah reminds me to stop and appreciate all that we have and are.

I am also thankful for my sister in motherhood, Miss Neely. She continues to fill my children with love each and everyday. It really does take a village. . .

Their First Sleepover

Lila Grace is the typical youngest sister, always wanting to do what the oldest does. Last night it was sleeping in Savannah's bed. Since these last two weeks have been simply exhausting, I was too tired to fight it. I left them with, "No giggling, no noises or Lila goes back into her own bed." This is what I found hours later. They slept together the entire night.

I love how these two love each other. Just today, Savannah's teacher pulled me aside and commented that Savannah's love for her sisters is remarkable. I guess she talks about them frequently and it apparently is very different from that of other Kindergarteners when talking about their younger siblings. I have always wanted my girls to love deeply. They are off to a great start with their love for each other. For that, I am thankful.

Buying for Others

We adopted two children from a shelter this year, both of which have developmental delays. Of course, that hits close to our hearts.

The twins went shopping for a boy who loves lights, sounds, and toys that move. He is also autistic. The girls did a pretty good job finding toys with lights. It was mentioned that the boy liked cars so the girls helped point out exciting cars on the shelves. Funny how Adeline scaled the shelves in order to reach Lightening McQueen and toss it in to the cart, over and over again! I finally ripped it out of her hands at the check stand. I think it is safe to say that she doesn't understand buying for others. Especially those that she doesn't know. Lila on the other hand seemed to understand that we weren't shopping for her. She had Ernie clinched in her fingers during the whole trip but put him back when we went to check out. I think there is some understanding now that we are home because both girls have left the toys alone and not incessantly asked to remove them from their boxes.

Savannah has adopted a 5.5 year old girl named Tamara. We had a wonderful afternoon looking for toys that fit her. Tamara likes baby dolls. Savannah never asked to take home a toy and was willing to spend some of her own money on a writing journal for Tamara. "Mommy, a diary will help her learn to write her letters since she needs extra practice like Adeline." Yes, I explained that even though Tamara was Savannah's age, she wasn't as adept to doing fine motor crafts etc. as Savannah is. I likened it to the differences in Adeline and Lila and Savannah ran with it. She wanted to buy all sorts of "therapy toys." Because I don't know Tamara's developmental needs, we bought her a baby doll with lots of accessories. I was proud of Savannah when she exclaimed, "Now Tamara will have an exciting Christmas." Savannah came up with the idea of getting her stocking and stuffing it. I thought it was clever.

After explaining that these children live in shelters and what a shelter is I was bombarded with questions and comments. Here are a few from the oldest:

Tamara has probably had some pretty sad Holidays

Maybe I should invite her to my birthday so she can have fun at a party. Maybe she can get some of the gifts.

Why don't her parents have money? (I explained that they may not have jobs or, if they do, they may not be good ones)

Why don't you send a note to Tamara's Mommy and tell her to work at Pottery Barn with you. I know there are lots of jobs there.

We should buy these decorations for her yard. Oh, right, she probably doesn't have a yard.

Can we buy her gifts for her birthday?

Why doesn't she get Christmas gifts? Doesn't Santa bring her some?

After explaining that we were spending money that was initially set aside for our family's gifts, Savannah responded with, "That makes me a little disappointed but happy for Tamara."

X-Mas Card Shoot 2009

How did my girls grow up? Their dresses with crinoline, black patent leather shoes, and bows in the hair made them appear just that much older to me. I remember dreaming of the day when I could get them all to pose (using the word loosely) for pictures in pretty dresses. I just adore these sweet faces - even if they are growing up way too FAST!

We took them down to the Brandywine River to try and sneak in some holiday card pictures. After dressing them and doing hair, I was already exhausted but off we went. The excursion proved to fun while providing some quality family time.

Upon arriving, we found the bridge and surrounding area were being turned into an X-Mas tree stand. There was a lot of noise and movement which initially put Adeline at odds with the place. She eventually warmed up. Lila was in heaven because there were rocks everywhere. It is a good thing that her palms don't show in the pictures! She was filthy yet again. Savannah found the tranquil river appealing but enjoyed tossing rocks around with Lila too.

And yes, we got some pictures too. You will have to wait for the card to see my favorites but below are some less perfect but sweet pictures.

The Things They Love Part III

Miss Grace! I know just where to start. . .

Lila is my biggest binki/bunny and now blanket girl. Her Bunny is in worse condition than Savannah's which is very hard to believe. Possibly the most unique and humorous aspect of Lila's Bunny love is where she likes to rub it. I bet you wouldn't have guessed on her toes. Each morning while riding in the car for 1.5 hours, Lila takes off her shoes and socks, hikes her pant legs up, and gives her toes a good Bunny rub. Rubbing Bunny's ribbon on the inside of her nostril seems to be a favoirte as well. We have limited the binki to the car and bed but she still loves it immensely. She only likes certain ones - never pink or purple to be exact. The blanket, well the blanket has been with her from the beginning. It draped over her isolette serving as "room darkening shades." Now it snuggles with her under her sheets to keep her warm.


Coming in at a strong second is Savannah. Lila Grace adores Savannah and their relationship. Their monkey see, monkey do interactions are priceless. Lila Grace puts up with a lot because much of Savannah's pretend play remains above Lila's head. The two of them would rather play with each other, running, screaming and chasing, than playing with a toy any day. An example of their sister games is playing tag. One must tag the other and then say, "I love you." Savannah came up with it on her own.


There aren't many material items that rank high on Lila's list. In fact there are just a few and Ernie has climbed his way to the top. Lila fell in love with Ernie when she turned two and now can spot him an mile away. She recognizes his voice in songs, used to only want Ernie diapers, and is the first to tell a stranger, "I like Ernie."

Another material item that Lila will spend her time on is a puzzle. She isn't independent with 24 piece jigsaw style puzzles but she is getting closer each day. She is a pro at this wooden three pieces to a picture puzzle which is pretty tough. Lila carefully searches through all of the puzzle pieces looking for just the right one. It is nice to see her methodical when most of the time she flies by the seat of her pants.
Dancing, dancing and more dancing. Spinning, singing and dancing. This is what Lila does for fun. She has a favorite song and it must be blaring loud. She won't dance in shoes or socks and we just recently won the clothing battle. For the past six months, she has danced in just her undies.

Does filth count as something one can love? Anything that is wet and has the ability for Lila to drag her feet through it calls her name. She strips off her shoes and socks immediately when she sees a puddle. Luckily, she is getting old enough to know that I DON'T like it which makes her hesitate and ask - sometimes. Most of the time her hands are muddy and her feet are wet.
Along this same line of thinking are rocks. Lila loves a good rock. When she was younger, she would pick one up off a parking lot and carry with her until we got home. I would have to pry it out her hands in order to avoid living in a rock pile. Now, she picks them up and looks for places to throw them. Give her a stream lined with rocks and the child is occupied for hours.

Finally, I must include the color red. Lila Grace feels entitled to anything red because, "I like red mommy." Every picture she brings home from school is colored solidly with red. She used to insist on wearing red socks with everything. Today it was the red bow that had to be in her hair. It seems that red is factor in each day of Lila's life. The funny thing is, Savannah was the same way!!

The Things They Love Part II

Adeline's loves have been pretty consistent over the past couple of years. Although most of them have taken on new complexities like swinging in a big girl swing in comparison to the baby aquarium swing. Adeline is is simple yet opinionated.

Possibly her favorite love of all time is anything with wheels. Before she could crawl, Adeline would prop up and roll a car back and forth. The car has evolved and Adeline now loves everything "Lightening." Yes, that is Lightening McQueen. You would be surprised that this house sports more Cars than dolls. It took me a good two months to not have to give Adeline the toy below during her every waking moment of play.Speaking of play, Adeline has always been a puzzle girl. She is obsessed with train floor puzzles but is currently favoring the number train over the ABC's.
I don't know if I am responsible for her next love but I am pretty sure I have some part in it. Adeline loves giraffes. She really doesn't take to any other stuffed animal. She enjoys giraffes in plush (as seen in the picture) but also loves to wear her giraffe print hoodie, read giraffe books or see them in real life at the zoo. The irony in the big animal/tiny girl only makes it that more precious.
I wasn't sure if I should post baths under Lila or Adeline but I am going to put it here. I remember how motivating baths used to be for Adeline. Hearing the water run would give her the gumption to crawl when crawling was so laborious. Today, she continues to kick and splash but feels most proud when she is "swimming." (The girls put color tabs in their bath water which is why it looks like someone vomited.)
As I mentioned, her love of swinging started the day she came home. Come to think of it, she would swing in the NICU once she was past term. Once big enough, Adeline used to sit for an entire hour in the baby swing while Savannah and Lila played on the playground. Now she explores, climbs and slides but there is not doubt what she likes most. Possibly her vestibular needs shining through. I can't believe I don't have a picture of her in an outdoor swing.
Don't mess with Adeline's trains. She will kick and scream. She will especially stick it to you if you take her Henry, Clarabel and Annie away. Don't try to trade them for Lady or Thomas, don't try to take turns, and don't pull them apart. The girl likes what she likes!

Finally, for the girl who was always a tough feed both with the bottle and later with solids, it is funny that she will do anything for the following two items. Yes, she still gets a bottle of Pediasure in the morning. If you enter her room without in hand, you will hear her scream, "Bottle!" over and over again while you walk downstairs to get it. She sucks it dry in two minutes but loves is just the same. And forget cookies, crackers, and candy, my littlest girls LOVES Trader Joe's yogurt. She begs for it and if you finally give in a say yes, she hops into the kitchen, opens the refrigerator, digs it out of the drawer (we buy mass quantity when we go) and finds herself a spoon. She also eats it in two minutes flat with the biggest bites imaginable. I will be surprised if she ever grows tired of the two. Don't know what her roommate in college will think about her sucking down a bottle of Pediasure (no she doesn't want it in a cup) but I will let the two of them work it out.

The Things They Love

Alex asked me why I was taking pictures of the girls and all of the things they loved. I told him I was afraid I wouldn't remember which he didn't take too seriously. I promptly asked him what the girls loved when they turned two and he came up with, "I would have to think about it." I think that was his way of giving the admission of not remembering.

So here we go. I will start with my oldest.

Savannah still is holding strong to her creative side. Here favorite past time is crafting, creating, and writing. She spends hours at her desk either writing/making things for the pretend world she is currently in or for something or someone in reality. I took a picture of her desk and there was a journal she had made two days ago for herself. "It is for me to write in when I feel like it." Write she does.

As far as creating goes, she brought what she called a robot (a recycled box taped to a train) upstairs to show the family. It was done completely on her own and sports a nice smiley face if you look closely.

She also loves anything small and plastic that has a community of it's own. Ponyville and Thumbelina are currently top of the list.

On the first day of school, Teacher Michelle asked the class what they most wanted to learn. Savannah was the only child that did not say she wanted to learn to read. Instead she said, "I want to learn to count money." Not surprising, Savannah has learned it on her own at home as she spends far too much time counting her change and dollars. She also hoards coupons that she dreams of using but never ends up pulling the trigger on because she can't part with her money. I couldn't find all of her change but she is thrilled to be a proud owner of a five and ten dollar bill.
Although she didn't say she wanted to learn to read to T. Michelle on the first day of school, not a day goes by without helping her work her way through a book. Her class hasn't started in on heavy reading instruction yet but Savannah is progressing due to own determination and patience. It pains me when she calls her sisters up to on the couch to listen to her read one of their favorite stories. Time and again, they get frustrated and I hear Savannah say, "Girls, I just don't know how to read this book yet. I am sorry." Oh, how I wish there were more hours in the day so I could teach this bright little girl reading fundamentals.
I have to add that one of Savannah's favorite past time is dragging Lila around to play whatever game Savannah has concocted. Savannah loves Lila dearly but sometimes I have to remind her that Lila Grace is not a toy. If Lila gets to it before I do, Savannah is left hurt and tearful wondering why Lila doesn't want to play with her.

Finally, it goes without saying. . . BUNNY! This is a picture she took in for show and tell. They can't bring in toys or stuffed animals so she took a picture of a newish (back up Bunny that never really worked after 1.5 years of age) and the real Mrs. Bunny Ruffle.

More on the the other two later.

Here We Go Again. . .

Why do I think the third time isn't a charm?? I predict the Belle will give us a run for our money in the potty department. I am determined to get her potty trained because poor Mrs. Stueve keeps having to change a poopy diaper at school. Isn't there someone out there I could hire to stay in my house for a week and take care of this for me. . .

The first success. . .

Trick Or Treat

Here goes the obligatory Halloween post. Much less monumental than last year when the girls were just on the threshold of saying, "trick-or-treat," and Adeline was barely able to hold her own with steps. However. . . this year was full and fun.

Due to the impending rain, we took the girls to a large mall to trick or treat. This was my first experience with Malloween, and it wasn't bad. Most retailers were handing out candy and the girls figured out very quickly how to spot the stores with the goods. I was pleased to see them waiting in line and saying, "thank you." None of the three girls really love saying, "trick-or-treat," which most stems from their parents social shyness.

While in the mall, Savannah the hamburger was a hit. She was stopped time and time again by people telling her how wonderful her costume was. I was asked many times if I made it myself. Clearly, I look more able than I am. I have to say the hamburger costume was refreshing. Although it was a last minute clearance purchase with no real decision to wear it, the hamburger reminded me of character free Halloweens past. Nowadays every trick-or-treater is a Disney Princess or Star Wars/Transformer. We are just as guilty as the twins pranced around in their Barbie princess dresses. The hamburger pleased me because it didn't subscribe to a character, gender or time period. And of course, there isn't a cuter smile out there to pull it off!
After the mall, the we headed home for a nap with low expectations for neighborhood trick-or-treating. To our surprise, the rain held off and the girls were out by six o'clock. Here they are with the favorite neighborhood girlfriends.

The girls hoofed it much of the way but the distance between houses here is too much for little legs. The girls were in their stroller and Savannah on Daddy's shoulders by the end. We were all hot (strangely humid) and poured on ten minutes before making it home. What a better way to cure the wet costume blues than a bubble bath in Mommy and Daddy's tub. Finally, all three girls got to tub it up together.

We played around a bit, well who am I kidding, I watched the girls jump, roll, and be lifted by daddy. We will see how much longer Daddy can do this. Savannah doesn't understand why he can't lift her and a twin??? (He is loving me for posting this picture)
Soon, the twins were in bed and Savannah was counting her stash. 78 pieces!! Looks like someone is coming down off of their sugar high.
Now if anyone could just rid this house of candy, cookies, and all other sweets I wouldn't have to be asked a gazillion times a day for a snack. We can't possibly eat all of this. The amount of candy three kids bring in is ridiculous.