Alexander & Benjamin

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-19T17:54:00.001-07:00

Costumes

2008-10-19T17:49:00.000-07:00

Scarves

2008-08-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

Waterpark @ Steveston

2008-08-05T19:12:00.001-07:00

Upside Down

2008-07-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

Harrison Hot Springs

2008-07-09T16:54:00.001-07:00

Summer's here!

2008-06-28T21:27:00.001-07:00

Faces

2008-06-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

Benjamin opts to offer some of his finest facework:

Alexander, however, wasn't about to be outdone:

More Treeclimbing

2008-05-25T19:41:00.001-07:00

This tree is right outside of our daycare centre and is the PERFECT tree for climbing. Everyday mum takes a picture of us on the tree in the morning:

Cates Park

2008-05-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

Victoria

2008-05-18T19:29:00.000-07:00

Inside Joke: Alex and Benji Souffle

2008-05-07T20:30:00.000-07:00

Tree Climbing

2008-05-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

Sunday @ Trout Lake

2008-04-21T23:50:00.001-07:00

Dress-up

2008-04-17T22:01:00.001-07:00

Bubbles

2008-04-11T20:35:00.000-07:00

Vacuuming

2008-04-08T19:09:00.000-07:00

Haircuts

2008-04-06T20:24:00.001-07:00

Mohawks

2008-04-03T22:44:00.001-07:00

Saturday afternoon at the park

2008-03-22T23:38:00.001-07:00

Low Flow Showers

2008-03-19T20:18:00.001-07:00

Gymnastics

2008-03-15T22:02:00.001-07:00

We're Back!

2008-03-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

Did ya miss us??

Lantern Festival

2007-07-29T23:32:00.000-07:00

The highlight for us this weekend was going to the Illuminaries Lantern Festival put on by Public Dreams. It's an annual event and there was just a gazillion people there. We picked up a couple of lanterns at the park and then hung out at the beach while we waited for dusk to come. Then we noticed that all the kids had these magic wands and of course, we begged and pleaded for one as well.

These were some of the more spectacular lantern displays at the festival:

When dusk arrived, we followed the procession around the park and watched the lanterns light up. It was pretty amazing. We'll probably go back again next year.

Earlier in the day we headed over to the fountains at Metrotown to toss many-a-pennies. Afterwards, we picked up a couple of new books at the bookstore - one on butterflies and one one sea life. Then we had a snack before heading home. Alexander is trying to be all growed up here but everyone knows he's just 3.5.

Childcare

2007-07-17T00:01:00.001-07:00

We kind of always knew that childcare issues were going to rear their ugly head when the plans for the universal childcare program got axed by Harper. Well, sure enough, it's now hit home. The workers at our daycare have been talking about strike action for some time now as they want better compensation and benefits for the work that they are doing. And we totally agree with them as they don't get paid a very good wage and they shouldn't have to bear the brunt of the cutbacks to registered daycares like ours. To hammer home their point, they are taking job action this Thursday so it looks like we'll be staying home that day. There is also talk about more job action or even a full blown strike if negotiations start to break down. Hopefully it won't come to that but it seems like this is the summer of strikes.

Adventures

2007-07-16T23:39:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went on two big adventures since our dance class on Saturday was cancelled. We started off with an adventure to Granville Island via the Aquabus. From Science World it takes about 15-20 minutes which is just about right in terms of having a good look at what is going on along False Creek. Otherwise, we'd miss out on the family of geese swimming by, the rusty old tanker anchored on the side, the various sailboats parked chaotically, and the beaches along the way. The best part about Granville Island is chasing the pigeons at the square while Mum and Dad round up some lunch. For this trip, we headed over to the Kids' Market and tried out the Adventure Zone afterwards. While it was a bit advance for us still, we enjoyed the ball room tremendously, and even got up the courage to go down the slide (with Dad's help of course). Then it was time for some ice cream before heading back on the Aquabus. We found a yummy gelato shop that served up hazelnut chocolate and sugarfree raspberry.

Sunday's adventure was in Steveston with a visit to the local fish and chip shop followed by a long stint at the best playground in the region. They have everything you want there - including a water park that was fully operational that day. It's too bad we didn't bring our swimsuit and towel but we still did get an opportunity to splash around a bit. They also make a mean mango smoothie there.

Saturday

2007-07-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

Before we fell slightly ill yesterday, we were having a pretty good weekend. Grandma Hill had come over to visit, so she joined us as we started our first class of pre-ballet (with new outfits too) on Saturday. These sessions are at Champlain Heights and they have a lovely though small dance studio there. Then later in the evening, we went back to the Greek Festival taking place about 5 minutes from our house at the Greek Church parking lot. It's the one advantage of where we live as the parking can get a bit tight but we just sauntered over there for some yummy souvlaki, pita bread, greek salad and watch some dancing.

These are the most delicious doughnuts we've ever had. They are deep fried dough then covered with honey and sesame seeds. absolutely evil but wonderful:

Fairs and museums

2007-07-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

It was a busy week that was, ending with a trip over to the island to visit Gung-gung and Poh-poh for the long weekend.

We started off with a family fun fair at daycare to get us in the mood:

We both tried the bouncy castle in the background there. It was plenty fun. We hear they do birthday parties as well.

Then it was over to Victoria on the ferry and straight to Butterfly Gardens in Victoria for our inaugural visit:

Click on the photo to see a slideshow.

We also visited the Miniature Museum, strolled around town, went to the beach, went hiking at Mt. Tolmie, and ate really well all weekend long.

Hanging with pals

2007-06-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend started off with a busy social calendar. Last night we went with Aunty Ann and Kendry to this very popular Vietnamese restaurant in Chinatown for dinner. Dad was over on the island doing some work so it was the first time we've been out solo with Mum. The place was great - it's got a loud din to it so that no matter how loud you are, it's not possible to be heard above the din. Then the food arrived really quickly and was very yummy - we particularly liked the BBQ lemongrass chicken and the stock soup that comes with many of the dishes. We couldn't believe how busy the place gets and it was a good thing we got there early.

Today we had lunch with Callum, Finlay, Peter and Paulina before heading out to the park. We were going to check out the Farmer's Market at Trout Lake but never made it that far as the playground, beach, and climbing tree distracted us from moving further. The park was really busy with lots of people having picnics, walking their dogs and playing.

Special Treats

2007-06-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

= popsicles, 2 chocolate eggs, rice krispie squares, cookies, cake, more cake, chocolate cake, ice cream, more popsicles, chocolate bar, candy, lollipops

We really really like our special treats. And lately, we've become more discriminating about how that term is used. For instance, while we are big fans of watermelon and its related cousins (the cantaloupe or honeydew), we also know that it's not in the same league as the items mentioned above. Our entire existence is currently devoted to eking out as many special treats a day as is humanly possible. In between, we've been hanging out at school and spending time renewing our acquaintance with butterflies and moths in the hopes that we'll be returning to the butterfly museum soon. Alex caught a moth about a week ago - it was sitting oh so very still on the newspaper we all thought it had met its demise until of course, it fluttered about as he tried to pick it up. It lasted a few days but wasn't meant for the bugcatcher it would seem

Jr. Naturalists

2007-06-03T22:44:00.000-07:00

Acrobats

2007-06-02T14:58:00.001-07:00

Ben really reckons himself an acrobat these days - perfecting his skills wherever and whenever he can.

But Alex is no slouch either - while he can't hang onto the rings as long as Ben, he can count to 10 before letting go:

Showoff:

Let's talk about our weekend

2007-05-22T15:34:00.001-07:00

(this being a revised version of the ritual "let's talk about our day").

It was the long weekend, so what did we get up to?

a walk into a foresty park where we went off the beaten path and poked around old logs looking for bugs to put in our bugcatcher
the day's haul included 3 crickets each, 3 centipedes, a pill bug, small spider
a drive around in Mum's ailing car followed by a switch to Dad's peppy car, followed by a HUGE cup of "banilla" ice cream in exchange for not losing composure when the trip to the mall was aborted
shopping in the rain
dinner with Aunty Teesa
long naps
a minature train ride followed by more bug hunting which kind of went pear shaped when our ears refused to send commands to our brain which controls our motor functions like our legs which results in us appearing to run away
catching a GIANT wolf spider in our backyard, a snail and worms, worms, worms
dinner with Peter, Paulina, Callum and Finlay which included pre-dinner activities in the backyard and post-dinner pillow fights in our room
CAKE!
POP-CYCLEs!! and of course,
Dora and Swiper no swiping

"I go anywhere"

2007-05-16T23:20:00.000-07:00

We know you've been wondering where we've been. Just here - out and about enjoying the spring-like weather of late and depleting the planet of bugs (except when they fly through the car window at which point you give up all affinity to the bug world and scream bloody murder instead that it will attack you and kick wildly to get attention). We're taller now. Everyone says so. We wouldn't mind being bigger tho - like in that Little Critter story where being bigger gives you access to a world beyond having to stare at the joints between cupboard and countertop. We long for the view above. That and being able to spin on one foot, drink wine, and drive. But we'll settle for an unhealthy addiction to chocolate and multivitamins to tie us over until then. And don't be afraid to pass along some cake our way either - we like cake. A LOT. especially CHOCOLATE CAKE. cupcakes will do too. We found cupcakes after dance class last week at a community centre fair - it was all we could do to get Mum to stop walking and let us sit down to inhale it. Which by the way, is going quite well - the dancing, that is. We've got a lot of different moves now. But most importantly, we recently discovered Dora. She's all that, and more. We need her a lot. Her and Little Critter, and Curious George, and our pom-poms.

Gender Roles

2007-05-08T19:33:00.000-07:00

A: Benny, Alex and Daddy are going for a wagon ride. And then we get some chocolate at the store.
B: Yes, we get a chocolate bar.
A: Mama, you stay home and make dinner.
B: No mama, you stay home and go to bed.

Seesawing

2007-04-23T22:22:00.000-07:00

@ Confederation Park on Saturday:

The Day in Pictures

2007-04-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

We started our ballet classes today. Mum and Dad stayed as parent participation is mandatory so it was even more fun.

Then it was off to the mall after a healthy lunch of shrimp salad:

Later that evening, we sported some bear feet and found that yes indeed they outsize our regular feet by about a factor of 20:

Easter Weekend

2007-04-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

It was one of our busier weekends and we didn't even have dance class!

On Friday, we discovered a cool beach where there were loads of small crabs running around so of course we had to overturn every rock on the beach to find each and every crab. We also visited the train park to commemorate the opening of the season this weekend. As expected, the train ride was top notch as usual.

Saturday was spent recovering from Friday so we stayed indoors as the allergies were making up owly and growly. Then on Sunday, it was back to it again, with Alex off to a playdate at his friend Nicole's place while Benjamin went to the Acquarium with Dad and Grandma Hill. He picked up two new jellyfishes at the shop and gave one to Alex. Then later that day, we headed off to Kendry's birthday party at a local chinese restaurant. The food was yummy and the cake was even better. We were a bit disturbed by the removal of crabs from the crab tank but were told they were going to a better place.

Yesterday we spend most of it with Grandma Hill and Dad at the park followed by a stint at the indoor playarea of a local mall. We didn't nap yesterday which was both good and bad. Good in that it put us back on our schedule (we were staying up late and sleeping in all weekend) but bad in that we were a tad grumpy from being too tired.

Look at Me!

2007-04-01T22:19:00.000-07:00

Hippicups

2007-03-25T22:26:00.000-07:00

Pillows

2007-03-18T21:51:00.000-07:00

The slipcover lady who dropped by for a visit this morning inspired us to redecorate the living room, opting for a more casual, on the ground seating arrangement. You can see how we've organized the pillows into a cozy circle. Of course, seating is only reserved for those with adequate waist accoutrements such as the ones we're modelling. Membership has its privileges.

Cakes

2007-03-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

We love cakes. Lately, we've been indulging every weekend. This weekend was a particularly special one as it was in honour of Aunty Teesa's birthday. So Mum opted for a fresh fruit cake with a strawberry border. Mmmmm.

Brushing teeth in style

2007-03-08T23:46:00.000-08:00

Hanging

2007-03-05T16:19:00.000-08:00

Sorry we've been absent in the last little while. Ever since recovering from our nasty colds and flus, we've been crusing along and just enjoying life. Which we must say is going fastastically well. We have been refining the art of requesting (or is it demanding?) special treats, sometimes we even back it up with a bit of really good behaviour just to make sure Mum and Dad are paying attention, we're discovering sea shells from our visit to the beach this past weekend, we're totally commited to our necklaces which adorn our necks morning, noon and night (at which point they are carefully tucked underneath the pillow for safekeeping), we've been exploring some new books that Dad got for us and weeding out the old ones that will be passed along, we're easing in our size 9 shoes, and we continue to master the art of conversation:

A: Benny!
B: Hi kitty!
A: I have an IDEA.
B: hmmmmm
A: Benny! I have an IDEA.
B: No, don't say that.
A: No, I say that.
B: Mama, Alexander is saying that.
A: Benny! STOP IT!
B: I go anywhere!
A: You don't go anywhere!
B: I go anywhere.
A: I need a special treat.
B: No special treats. Go stand on the mat.
A: No, I go anywhere.
B: No, you don't go anywhere.
A: I go anywhere!
B: I need special treat Mama.

So as you can see, we're keeping busy.

Good News

2007-02-20T15:59:00.000-08:00

A quick trip to the urologist this morning revealed that all is well and normal with Benjamin's kidney function. Best news is that he doesn't have to do another renal scan for another 2 years. woot.

Happy Lunar New Year!

2007-02-17T20:25:00.000-08:00

In honour of the Year of the Pig, we had a small celebration by feasting on some yummy Chinese food at a local restaurant. It was a very busy night out as everyone seemed to have the same idea and we totally lucked out finding parking and a place that took us without reservations. Aunty Teesa joined us for the evening, and it was a tummy-filling experience all around.

Somewhat better

2007-02-11T21:38:00.000-08:00

The latest update on the flu bug in our household is that Alex has more or less fully recovered, Ben is still recovering (still very flemmy), Mum is in the middle of the storm, and Dad is just entering the dark side. So basically, we have nothing good to say about the flu. Most everyone who has come into contact with us has been afflicted - Aunty Teesa is bedridden as is Grandma Hill upon her return home from visiting us last week. The casualties mount, and word on the street is that the numbers infected have yet to peak.

Benjamin had to sit out most of his dance class yesterday as he could not stop coughing. After a few projectile vomits, he did feel much better. In the afternoon, he felt good enough to join Alex outdoors for some fresh air and the first foray into the backyard for the season:

Today wasn't much better. Owly and growly would be the main adjectives of the day. After refusing Mum's many offers to lie down with him for a nap, she gave up and Ben spent some time cutting up watches and rings:

Slow road to recovery

2007-02-08T22:43:00.000-08:00

We're sick. Ugh - just when we thought we had escaped the colds and flues this season, alas, it was not to be. It's Day 5 now, and Alexander is still in the final stages of giving his cold the heave-ho. Much coughing, vomiting and general misery has been had. Benjamin managed to escape the worst of it - catching Alex's cold a few days ago and only suffering mildly in comparison. It's been the kind of cold which makes you feel all pitiful and lethargic, where you move from lying on the couch watching Noodlebugs to lying in bed, drinking lots of liquids, resist being force-fed medicine (evil, evil medicine) and cursing anyone who appears to be mildly healthy (that's why you cough in their face . . . accidentally of course).

As it happens, we just had our furnace replaced yesterday with one that is about a thousand times more efficient, doesn't spew out all manner of toxic chemicals into the house, and can even filter out the nasty stuff. Hopefully this will expedite our road to recovery as the air quality in the house improves.

Today we did both make it back to daycare although it wore us out completely and by the time we got home, the owlies and growlies were out in full force. Aunty Teesa didn't make it over, as she, along with the many thousand others, are also now afflicted with this bug. Let's hope all returns to normal soon.

Weekend Pics

2007-01-28T20:29:00.000-08:00

It was quite the busy weekend we just had. It started with dance class yesterday - which is going swimmingly well. Mum and Dad weren't allowed to stay so they went off for a quick breakfast as we got down to shakin' and jigglin' about. After a quick snack, we headed over to Science World for Callum's birthday party. There were about nine kids and parents there. The party included a science demonstration and lunch afterwards. Best of all, there was CAKE! Alexander had been waiting since Friday night for CAKE. Both of us had almost two helpings each because it was CAKE, and a chocolate one to boot. Needless to say, a long nap was in order after all this excitement.

Then today it was off to the acquarium for an overdue visit the the sea aneome, jellyfish and sting rays. On our way back to the car, we ran into a peacock taking a stroll along the parking lot. Most people cleared out of its way rather than give chase as we attempted to do.

Gift bags

2007-01-17T23:08:00.000-08:00

Paying homage to the gift-bag overlords:

Late Night blogging

2007-01-14T23:34:00.000-08:00

That's what happens when you end up staying well past one's bedtime as it so happened this evening. Truth be told, we were waiting for Mum to come home (much to her surprise and Dad's chagrin). This extra time however, gives us a chance to catch you up on our activities this weekend. Saturday was not quite as eventful tho there was the post-nap event of eating a ginormous piece of chocolate cake - mmmmmmmmhmmmm - deeeeelicious. It was truly memorable. Sunday we ventured off to our swimming lessons which we abandoned about 5 minutes into the class as we promptly decided it wasn't for us - this whole swimming thing. We weren't having any of it so Mum de-registered us from the course and we'll stick to dry activities thank you very much. After lunch, and equipped with two suckers in hand (or lollipops), it was off to the acquarium - in what some may consider a strange and somewhat ironic twist of activities - to visit our friends the jellyfish and other sea creatures. You see, we're big fans of the water, we just don't think at this point in time that we are amphibian-like if you know what we mean. As usual, we enjoyed it immensely and once again, contributed to the upkeep of the gift shop by donating some of Mum and Dad's hard earned money in the purchase of two sea anemones to add to our growing collection of plastic stretchy sea creatures.

weather woes

2007-01-10T22:14:00.000-08:00

it's been a bad day here on the west coast for weather. it took us 1.35 hours today to get home from daycare. That's about 1 hour longer than normal. We waited for about 45 mins. just to get down from the mountain and then another half hour at least trying to wind our way through the streets once off the freeway. what a mess it was. and Mum was one of the few parents who made it to daycare since there were hardly any cars in the parking lot when we got outside. good thing Mum had bought a loaf of bread otherwise, we would have been picking the crumbs off our seats as we were getting pretty hungry. everyone seemed quite grumpy about not getting home on time and there were abandoned cars everywhere we turned. should be a much better commute tomorrow they say (that's if you think ice is better than snow). we like the snow.

shirt hat a la jellyfish

2007-01-08T19:29:00.000-08:00

busy busy

2007-01-08T13:36:00.000-08:00

We had a packed weekend these last few days getting in the final push of the holiday season before the necessities of work and life start to interfere (translation: before Mum and Dad lose steam and don't want to go out). Grandma Hill was over to join in on the festivities which included swimming lessons (without parent participation), a trip to the Vancouver Acquarium and the acquisition of new books and two jellyfish (pic to come). And soon, we'll also be adding dance classes to the mix as we expand our repetoire beyond daycare and into the community. In this sense, three is turning out to be pretty amazing.

New Year Haircuts

2007-01-02T19:54:00.000-08:00

spiffy huh?

Green Eggs and Ham

2006-12-29T21:23:00.000-08:00

Here's the recipe:

Eggs:

Step 1) Separate the yolk from the whites - DO NOT BREAK THE YOLK (that's why you see only one yolk)

Step 2) Add Food coloring to the egg whites. The color you see in the uncooked yolk will be much darker than the color after they are done. So mix those egg whites til you are good and ready.

Step 3) Gently add yolk back. Don't break it.

Ham:

Step 1) Find the ham you need. Drier is better cause it helps absorb more.

Step 2) Get a clear sauce (water works too) mix in the color you want

Step 3) Brush on, or soak your ham with the new colored mix. Remember: You are going to be painting on a pink canvas so take that into consideration.

Step 4) Cook up your food like you normally would.

Gingerbread House

2006-12-23T13:52:00.000-08:00

Christmas Lights

2006-12-17T10:37:00.000-08:00

The rules of the game are that, if they are on the left side of the car, they are Alexander's lights, and if they are on the right side of the car, they are Benjamin's lights.

But what if they are everywhere? Well, then you just run around in complete and total awe:

Nicole

2006-12-11T22:50:00.000-08:00

Alexander has really taken a shine to his new pal Nicole. Everyone is quite excited as it is his first attempt at friendship. Mum met her briefly today and though she is a bit older, she appears quite keen on bugs (a huge criteria) and is willing to peruse through bug books together. Sweeeet.

Benjamin starts his orientation at preschool next week with the aim of moving over for the new year. He's been the belle of the ball at the toddler centre as he is the only one there capable of holding a 2 way conversation with the daycare workers. Such is life at the top of the food chain (tho temporary it may be).

Poseur

2006-12-03T15:52:00.000-08:00

Sid Vicious, The Early Years

2006-12-03T15:49:00.000-08:00

First Snowfall

2006-11-25T20:42:00.000-08:00

They predict up to 30cm in some places - woot! (more photos here)

Fashionistas

2006-11-21T22:21:00.000-08:00

Lotsa Pics

2006-11-21T00:03:00.000-08:00

It took a while to get Mum to pull it all together, but here are our 3rd birthday photos. Enjoy!

Older

2006-11-16T22:33:00.000-08:00

Q. How old are you today?

Ben: Older.

Q. But how much older are you?

Ben: Three Older.

Q. Whose a big boy today?

Ben: hmmmm . . . Alex!

Q. What do we do on our birthdays?

Alex: Eat cake! . . . I need cake Mama.

Ben: I need cake too.

Q. What kind of cake do you like?

Ben: Big cake.

Alex: White cake.

last day of being 2

2006-11-15T22:29:00.000-08:00

Just in case you thought I was kidding

2006-11-11T20:44:00.000-08:00

Benjamin really does like pomegrants:

Alexander is fighting off a cold today and opted for madarin oranges instead - a less messy affair.

Happy Hallowe'en

2006-10-31T21:58:00.000-08:00

We didn't make it out for any trick or treatin' this year, but we did dress up (for all of 3 minutes) so Mum could take these photos. Instead, we just hung out at Aunty Lana's house with Uncle Garvin there too. The whole costume wearing thing is still a bit foreign to us and Alexander isn't too wild about some of the more gory-ier attempts as he was spooked out at daycare today by some of the outfits he saw during their parade around the childcare centre (hence he was a tad moody this pm - his dragon outfit has a hat and feet accessories but he wasn't having any of it). Benjamin fared a bit better, managing to keep his costume on during their walk around earlier today. And after much bribing, he agreed to put it back on so Mum could take a photo (that would be a very sugary cookie in his hand).

Our Favourite Fruit

2006-10-30T16:29:00.000-08:00

Hee Hee

2006-10-27T22:45:00.000-07:00

One month to go

2006-10-17T21:57:00.000-07:00

We have found ourselves needing to remind Mum and Dad on a fairly regular basis that some birthdays are coming up. The almost daily "It's Benny's birthday. It's Alex's birthday" mantra has taken hold. Gone are the days when our knowledge of this event was simply an obstacle to a long afternoon nap. Unlike years past, a cake with candles and plenty of singing will be in order. Of course, "new new" (not to be confused with "new") toys and books and videos will be expected. And plenty of balloons - esp. the ones that float up in the air by themselves. And lots of people.

A case of too many leaders . . .

2006-10-17T21:42:00.000-07:00

B: NO ALESSSANDER!

A: NO!! DONT' DO THAT!!!

B: IT'S MINE!

A: I DON'T LIKE IT!!!

B: NO HITTING!!

A: NO SCREAMING!!!!! DON'T DO THAT!

B: MY BOOK!!

A: NO! MINE!!

B: STOP THAT!

A: NO YELLING!! I DON'T LIKE THAT!

One month to go

2006-10-16T21:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-10-09T13:53:00.000-07:00

19 degrees in October. It just doens't get better than that. We started out this weekend going for dim sum with all our cousins and aunts and uncles. Poh-poh and Gung-gung were in town, and Uncle Roger fancied a dim sum lunch as it's been ages since we've all gone together. After that, we headed over to Sears to look at stoves and fridges. Well, to be more precise, Mum and Dad looked, and we chased each other around the department. It was a productive outing since it seems like we're going some new applicances in a couple of weeks. Then it was over that evening to Uncle Garvin's house for Thanksgiving Dinner (mmmmmm, soup and rice).

Sunday saw us heading out for a late breakfast followed by a trip to Kids Books. Unfortunately, it was still closed when we got there, so we went home, had a nap, and then headed back there later in the afternoon. With out new books in hand, we then looked for a coffee shop to sit down at and peruse through our purchazements. In particular, we were in search of a yummy doughnut, which eventually we did acquire, but a few neighbourhoods away. Then it was off to the park, to work off that sugar high, and back to Uncle Garvin's house for dinner with everyone. We said our goodbyes to Poh-poh and Gung-gung as they were heading home today.

Today, we were all feeling a but low in energy so we took a drive out to Deep Cove to check out what was going on there. As it turns out, there's quite the quaint little village there with a great beach for rock throwing and skipping. They also have a fabulous little Japanese restaurant where we stopped off for a quick bite and a lovely little kids store where the owner's daugher was flogging "Simply Delicious" chocolate bars (these are rare treats since only non-profit organizations doing fundraising seem to have access to them). We bought four bars. We'll probably have to go back for more.

Preschool

2006-10-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

Alexander officially starts his first day of preschool tomorrow. He's been doing the graduated entry this past week, starting on Wednesday. This means that he spends a few hours - longer each day - so that he has a chance to feel comfortable with the people and his surroundings without being too overwhelmed. Fortunately, he already knows a few people at preschool - a few kids from his ex-toddler centre and a family friend who, tho somewhat older, will be there for the balance of the year. The adjustment has been going very well so far and we don't anticipate any real difficulties although any change will bring about a bit of stress no doubt.

That being said, we took it easy this weekend and just hung out at our usual spots. We did try a new excursion on Saturday given the wet weather - to the public library downtown. It's very kid friendly and they have tonnes of books, videos, computers and the like. We found a vast array of insect books and even borrowed a couple.

Today we decided to forego the nap in exchange for an outing out for a yummy smoothie and cinnamon bun. Mmmmm - nothing like a sugar rush to wake one up. We took advantage of the not-very-busy mall to give our legs a good exercise.

Possibly the last hurrah

2006-09-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

We took advantage of the wonderful weather this weekend and spent a good portion of it outdoors. Yesterday we went to Steveston and hung out at the playground there (5 stars). Today, we were at the playground at Confederation Park (3.5 stars) testing out the equipment. Finally, this evening, we went to our neighbourhood park (4.5 stars - cos it's in the neighbourhood!) to throw some pea gravel about. In between, we went to the bookstore to see if there were any new bug books, visited the waterfountain), ran a quick errand to Costco (and got more bug books), and grabbed lunch on the go. It was busy but fun.

Warning Signs

2006-09-22T21:57:00.000-07:00

(sign generator)

It's Official!

2006-09-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

Alexander has been offered a full-time spot in one of the preschool centres and we've accepted. He will be officially moving to preschool on October 1. Everyone is both excited and nervous about the change. He's totally ready to go and shouldn't have any problems at all since he has already had a bit of experience in the preschool setting having gone to visit numerous times in the last while. But still, the change will be different since the staff-child ratio jumps from 4:1 to 8:1. But luckily, a friend of ours, Callum, is also in the same preschool and they may end up hanging out together. Wouldn't that be great?

Benjamin likely won't be moving till November or December. He runs on a different clock to Alex and continues to enjoy the toddler centre while he fine tunes the art of toilet use.

The week in pictures

2006-09-17T15:56:00.000-07:00

Our week has been going fairly smoothly. We're still in the throes of toilet-training and sleeping in lots. The weather change seems to have everyone in a tizzy - makes us sleepy and Dad has been hit with a very nasty cold which we're trying to avoid getting.

This weekend Grandma Hill came to visit and we took her to the train park on Saturday followed by a trip to the Vancouver Acquarium today. We showed her the beautiful butterfly display which we are very fond of.

Rainy Days

2006-09-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

The things one does on a rainy day.

On another note, Benjamin has started toilet training and whilst he's a lot less concerned about having accidents, he doesn't mind sitting on the potty and even posing for the occasional picture.

UPDATE: What do you do when you make a video of yourself having fun? why watch it over and over again of course!

Granville Island

2006-09-02T21:48:00.000-07:00

We've had quite the day today. Since it was so nice and sunny, we made our way out of the house early this morning, stopping off for breakfast at a little breakfast place Dad likes, and then we went over to Science World where we took the ferry boat over to Granville Island. At first Alexander was quite insistent that he wasn't going for a boat ride, but then, he warmed up to the idea and quite enjoyed it. Once at Granville Island, we visited the Train and Boat Museum and Mum bought a pair of funky shoes. Then we discovered a little courtyard where kids were chasing the many pigeons around so of course we joined in. After much harassing of the birds, we finally stopped for a juice drink, some carrots and cucumbers, and then it was back onto the ferry for the return trip.

Later that afternoon, after a much needed nap, we headed out again to the mall as Dad needed to get his shoes fixed, and we took the opportunity to pet all the little kittens at the pet store and say hello to the new puppy. Then it was time again for a juice break, this time at one of our favourite stops, Jugo Juice. They make a very yummy strawberry smoothie.

Day Off

2006-08-24T23:15:00.000-07:00

We took a break from our usual routine today and went to the PNE. As we were waiting in the lineup to get in, who should we see but Aunty Carolyn, Uncle Roger, Matt and Megan. It was great as we all hung out together for the first little while visiting the animal farm and going to see the Hi-5 show. We had a great time there but didn't have the stamina that Matt and Megan do (they are staying the WHOLE day) and had to leave about half-way through the show as it was getting to be too much stimulation (our first live show).

Here Matt is showing Alexander that personal dignity is highly over-rated:

Later that day we headed back out again, this time to the park (although we did for a brief minute contemplate going back to the fair). We hadn't been to this one in a while and forgot that they had really cool tire swings.

A great day overall.

Addicted

2006-08-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

We can't remember if we mentioned this before, but we LUURRRVE doughnuts. Esp. the lightly glazed fresh ones you get that just melt in your mouth. We don't get it often as it's like kiddie crack for us but every now and then, it's a nice treat. Tonight, Dad couldn't get exactly the glazed types so he got us 2 old fashion glazed doughnuts instead (it's a bit dough-ier). Benjamin gobbled his up right away but Alexander wasn't sure he was all that keen on this slightly different-than-usual doughnut. Benjamin, noticing that he had finished his but wanted more, then started to eye Alexander's.

As you can see, not much eating is happening:

In fact, the doughnut is pretty much in tact. But Alexander's not quite ready to give it up yet despite suggestions that he give it to Benjamin if he isn't going to eat it himself.

All Benjamin can do of course, is to wait patiently until Alexander is satisfied that he is done holding the doughnut. Benjamin has learned that on this front, patience does pay off usually.

Just to tease Ben, Alex takes an ever so small bite:

But of course, Alex tires of holding it, doens't want to eat it, and thus, patience pays off. Mmmmm, doughnuts.

Watermelon & Cantalope

2006-08-22T19:45:00.000-07:00

Front Porch

2006-08-21T21:59:00.000-07:00

woot!

2006-08-15T19:49:00.000-07:00

Aside from the nighttime, Alexander is now pretty much completely toilet trained. It was so easy. This past weekend he decided he was comfortable enough to sit on the potty and do his business and did so all weekend long. Now the very idea of a diaper is insulting. This should set him up very well when he moves to preschool in October. Benjamin hasn't quite started yet as he's not too interested even though the potty sits front and centre in the living room (not ideal but one thing at a time). But who knows, peer pressure and a brother who doesn't use diapers may expedite the process.

The Bug Lab

2006-08-12T15:22:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we made our inaugural visit to the Bug Lab in New West. It was beyond spectacular - not only do they have all different types of bugs (preying mantis, various types of tarantulas, scorpions, grasshoppers, velvet ants, etc.) in glass cages for all to see, but we watched them get fed live crickets, we held and petted a cockroach (Mum declined), and they have posters, mobiles and all kinds of framed objects from floor to ceiling. It was hard to know where to look first and we're sure we didn't soak it all in (hence the need for more visits). They also have a fabulous gift shop where we picked up a few more bug books (no, really, you can't have enough) and a couple of containers to catch live ones. Well worth the visit and we're glad we finally made it there.

Dancing

2006-08-10T20:58:00.000-07:00

Click on the link to see the video.

That Time Again

2006-07-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

Haircut time that is!

Thanks to Aunty Teesa for a great haircutting job.

TT: Stories from the field

2006-07-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

So far, the whole thing is going slowly. Alexander had two accidents this evening and was not best pleased at either, but the underwear is quite absorbent (heavy cotton) that it didn't even show up the second time (mind you, it could have been a very small accident). So it's onwards and wait to see what happens.

According to his daycare supervisor who has fraternal twins, when they were training, her daughter would only have accidents at home, and only when she is either standing in the closet on top of a pile of clothes, or on her toy chest. When forced to help clean up the mess, she relished in the idea of it, and wasn't at all bothered. It was only upon threat of returning to diapers full-time that the accidents stopped.

Always good to hear such stories. Uncle Garvin also reminded Mum that at least we don't take our diapers off and smear the contents on the wall like his co-worker's twins use to do (apparently their Mum was aghast and mortified).

As they say, it's all relative.

TT

2006-07-25T22:07:00.000-07:00

No. of accidents at daycare: 0/1

No. of accidents at home: 1/0

Security of a diaper: priceless

Toilet Training

2006-07-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

Alexander officially starts his toilet training today. He's been sitting on the potty for a while now but not much is happening. Mum bought four pairs of underwear into daycare and he's going to get a real taste for what it's like to wet your pants. We're crossing our fingers that it will go well as he's slated to go into preschool in the fall (hopefully September) and aside from the toilet training, he's ready. Benjamin isn't quite ready to start yet so he's going to see how it all goes with Alexander first, and then try it himself in September. We'll keep you updated on how it goes.

Weekend blah

2006-07-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

Uncle Garvin's got the scoop on our weekend. Mum's still reeling from it all we think.

No nuts here

2006-07-17T22:17:00.000-07:00

This weekend we took a walk through Central Park near our house. It's a great park because not only does it have 2 different large-ish ponds, but it also has numerous playgrounds and loads of trails for everyone. We decided to see if we couldn't find a few squirrels to feed and set off into the wood-sy part of the park. On the way, Dad found some yummy huckleberry bushes and we loaded up as we meandered through the trails. About 2/3s of the way through our walk, we encountered an older couple doing the same thing. They had a big bag of peanuts and were looking for squirrels to feed. We stopped to chat as they were somewhat dismayed to find that there were no squirrels about. In the process, we both got a handful of nuts to give to the squirrels. Dad cracked open one of the nuts to show us that the peanut was actually inside the shell - and that was the part you ate. Well, of course, we just had to try it out so we both popped a couple of nuts into our mouths. Unfortunately, Benjamin did not take to the nuts well at all, and started to get an allergic reaction. So off we rushed back to the car and home. Despite a dose of anti-histamines, he still wasn't feeling well so we took him to the hospital to get him checked out. By the time he got there with Mum, he was a very rosy shade of red - even the ambulance personnel were impressed. At the hospital emergency room, they gave him more anti-histamines and a shot of adrenaline. That seemed to do the job as his reaction slowly subsided. We've now got our own little kit of adrenline (called an EpiPen Jr.) in case this happens again as it was a bit scary at the time. But no more nuts for us. We'll be joining the nut-free world as we don't want to see this happen again.

Here we are just before the incident looking for squirrels and eating huckleberries:

The Overseer

2006-07-10T22:34:00.000-07:00

Location: Bench at the mall, outside of the fresh fruit juice store.

In attendance: Dad, Alex, Ben and Mum (sitting in this order).

Scene: Dad returns with a Strawberry Sunset Smoothie and cinnamon bun and passes the drink around. Quickly, both Alex and Ben grab for the drink and a orderly system of taking turns was established. Dad, Alex, Ben and then Mum. Dad takes a sip, then passes it onto Alex.

Dad: Now, Ben's turn. (Ben takes a sip. Continues to hold onto the cup for more.) Now it's Mum's turn. (Mum takes a sip). Now Dad's turn. (Dad takes a sip).

Alex: Alex's turn. (takes a sip). Ben's turn. (Ben takes a sip, and then tries for another sip). Mama's turn. (Ben tries to grap the cup after Mum has a sip).

Alex: No Ben, Daddy's turn. (Dad takes a sip). Alex's turn. (takes a sip, followed by Ben).

Alex: Mama's turn. (takes a sip) Daddy's turn. (takes a sip). Alex's turn. (takes a sip) Ben's turn (takes a sip). Mama's turn.

Mum: It's OK sweetpea, mama pass.

Alex: (emphatically) No, Mama's turn. (Mum pretends to sip) Daddy's turn. (takes a sip) Alex's turn. (sips) Ben's turn. (takes a long sip) Mama's turn.

Mum: Mama doesn't want anymore juice sweetie. (passes drink onto Dad)

Alex: No, Mama's turn. (pushes the drink back so Mum pretends to drink) Daddy's turn. (Ben makes a lunge for the drink) No, Ben, Alex's turn. (takes a sip) Ben's turn.

Day Trip

2006-07-02T18:38:00.000-07:00

We decided to take a peek at the village of Horseshoe Bay today. So it was off in the car we went to check out the marina and stroll through the village. There were lots of people there - mainly due to the the ferry traffic but the village itself is quite nice too. We walked out to the pier and saw many different boats coming and going.

Alexander reckons himself a bit tough here but we all know he's a softie at heart:

Osoyoos

2006-06-30T15:49:00.000-07:00

Wasn't quite the trip we had in mind as it was record temperatures (highs of 44 degrees) and Alexander suffered a bad bout of heat stroke for about 3 days (we ended up coming home early) but Mum did manage to get a few pics in of us enjoying the flavours of the outdoors.

Click here to see the slideshow.

First Experience

2006-06-21T22:30:00.000-07:00

What's the expression Homer Simpson uses when he salivates over one of his many favorite foods? hhhhmmmmmmmmm . . . glazed donuts . . . That's what it was like tonight as we're pretty sure this was our first foray into the donut territory. Where has this been all our lives? Dad only had the one, so we had to take turns having a bite but this beats out rice cakes anyday.

Mr Bossy and Mr Mischievious: A one act play

2006-06-18T17:46:00.000-07:00

Scene: Benjamin, with a metal spoon in hand, is banging on the door to the basement rather loudly. Alexander, having just finished breakfast, comes down from his chair, proceeds over to Benjamin and stands 90 degrees to him, looking ahead. He then turns his head and faces Benjamin.

A: Stop that, too loud. (turns his head away to look straight again)

B: (bangs on the door hard once, and grins mischieviously)

A: (turns to face Benjamin) No, too loud. No banging. (turns his head away to look straight again)

B: (bangs on the door hard once, and grins mischieviously)

A: (turns to face Benjamin) Too loud. No banging. (turns his head away to look straight again)

B: (bangs on the door hard once, and grins mischieviously)

A: (turns to face Benjamin) Stop that. No banging. (turns his head away to look straight again)

B: (bangs on the door hard once, and grins mischieviously)

A: (turns to face Benjamin) Too loud. Stop that. (turns his head away to look straight again)

B: (bangs on the door hard once, and grins mischieviously)

A: (goes to the silverware draw, pulls out a spoon, and proceeds to bang on the stove loudly).

The end.

Brotherly Love

2006-06-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe I know, but sometimes we really don't get along.