A Laugh a Minute Times Two

What in the world are Burritos?

2006-03-31T09:30:00.000-06:00

For those of you who do not know...Charlotte has an amazing palate when it comes to tasting and enjoying foods. She also LOVES to cook. There is a Betty Crocker Easy Bake Oven out there with her name on it. Aunt Dara and Uncle Adam bought her the greatest kitchen for her b-day and Chanukah. It is the

So, last Wednesday in the car I told Charlotte that I was making a tray of Burritos for the moms that we lunch with.

"Would you like a Burrito for lunch?"
"Yes, please."
LONG PAUSE>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
"What in the world are Burritos?"

That was the ultimate in food trust.

“Na’aseh V’nishmah”. YES??

REALLY this time STARTING AGAIN

2006-03-31T09:27:00.000-06:00

It's been way too long and I've missed out on jotting down too many great Charlotte quotes. So, here I begin again. This time it'll just be quotes and such from the mouth of that most sweet little human girl. Soon it'll be her brother too - catching up to her with wit and wisdom - I'm sure.

Even

2006-01-19T04:53:00.000-06:00

We could all use to learn a lesson from Charlotte. Even when she is not feeling well and her eyes are half open from fever - her attitude toward life is still with a smile. Is this a toddler thing or just my kid?

Sad Sweet Sick Girl

2006-01-18T15:46:00.000-06:00

Oh how I wish I could take away the fever, drippy nose and cough that now is attached to the Strep being cured by strong antibiotics.

Five Month Break

2006-01-16T14:50:00.000-06:00

Here I go again but this time I know that I write for myself and noone else. Being a SAHM with two kids and a part time job (very p/t) makes creativity an imperative aspect of sanity. If I do not write - I go insane. Humor breeds humor. This blog is all about the humorous side of pareting a 4mo old and a 3yr old. That's what I need...A Laugh a Minute Times Two. Sheri:)

And the Band Played On...

2005-08-17T13:07:00.000-05:00

Most days Charlotte's eating habits are exemplary.
Today, upon leaving the room momentarily to get a cloth for her face and hands, I returned to find her with juice cup upturned (juice finished).
"Why did you do that?" I asked her plainly and not freaked.
"I wanted a drum," she said just as plainly and not freaked.

Supposed To Be

2005-08-16T22:16:00.000-05:00

Routines can run away with your life's plan to be spontaneous.
Charlotte loves routines and I just need a way to get her not to freak a bit when we change-up the usual.

For instance: the complete bedtime rituatl abridged due to time.
I comfort her and let her know that tomorrow is another day.

What to do? A good kid with a memory like a steal trap.

I Know What I Like

2005-08-16T12:30:00.000-05:00

Upon visiting friends and family, Charlotte remembers the things that they have or do that give her a giggle.

This morning, Charlotte and I had a meeting with my boss - Sally.
Charlotte remembered that during last week's meeting, Sally had made her clasped hands squeak and told Charlotte that there was a tiny mouse hiding inside. Charlotte waited patiently for Sally and I to talk about the school year, review lessons and even take a short walk to my new classroom. Then, she proudly asked, "may I see the mouse."

It is wonderful to remember all the good qualities in those around us. Maybe we should all take time to note the what we like about friends and family!

6 Day Update

2005-08-15T12:15:00.000-05:00

Sorry about the pause in production.
Here is a quick update of the last six days:

*****Replying to David's wondering what he should have for lunch...Charlotte suggested "some bread, Jalapenos and cheese." And, that is exactly what he brought for lunch.

*****When noticing a girl standing in the backseat of a car in front of us at a stoplight...Charlotte commented, "She is doing a bad thing. She should be wearing a seat belt."

*****A frequent topic of conversation with Charlotte has been her interest in what babies eat, drink and do when they are born. She now readily announces that her brother will "drink from Eema's breast."

*****The words occassionally, usually, actually and now the phrase "supposed to" are regular and well placed words in her sentences.

*****Borrowing is a difficult concept to teach but Charlotte seems to enjoy sharing beyond her home when she has allowed a friend to borrow to Winnie the Pooh characters after playtime.

*****The fact that children do not show off is apparent when Charlotte eats much less than usual and with manners lower than her usual when we eat at someone else's house.

I'll be sure to keep updated. I've even got some drafts in storage for when the little boy is born.

Joy in Everything

2005-08-09T14:34:00.000-05:00

I know it was a while ago but ahhhh, the joy in one single apple. How is it possible that we all do not understand how to harness our youthful joy in simple things like picking one apple?! It is as if she sees G-d's image in everything.

Hal-Peen-Yo

2005-08-06T02:01:00.000-05:00

David eats his sandwiches - both cheese and deli - with a coating of Jalapeno slices. Charlotte has become quite interested in these green discs. This evening David offered her the tiniest of tastes to quench both her thirst for knowledge and her zest for food.

Well, the verdict is in - as she twisted her face and little tongue at the taste of the heat... she does NOT like Jalapenos. Or, as she said, "Some people like hot food, some people do not like hot food."

Shabbat Excitement

2005-08-05T01:58:00.000-05:00

Ritual and Routine had become a source of excitement, anticipation, pleasure and steadiness in our lives every increasingly since the day Charlotte was born.

Friday evenings create a special joy for Charlotte as she looks forward to setting the table with her Daddy. They have their own little methodology as Charlotte trapses back and forth to the kitchen to get the assorted Sabbath paraphenailia (candles, grape juice, Challah, etc).

Routine and ritual....let them become a special part of your home.

Usually

2005-08-04T01:53:00.000-05:00

Naptime seems to give way to either Charlotte's lovely or cranky side depending on the day. Thankfully she's been happier lately.

Today she immediately asked to be read some books from her pile in bed. I asked her if her bunny Bobo could read them.

"Bunnies can't read," she replied.
"Can you read it?"
"No, I can't read yet," she replied.
"Can Eema's (mothers) read it?"
"Usually Eema's can read," she replied.

Usually....that's a word that I don't usually use...I think...or maybe I do.

Library Time

2005-08-03T16:51:00.000-05:00

Our librarian asked Charlotte a question as part of a summer library reading program.
Charlotte was more than happy to tell the librarian all about her favorite parts of "Flora's Blanket" by Debi Gliori. We borrow 7-8 books weekly and attend a marvelous library storytime at the Main Library. The only problem with Charlotte's answer is that she was retelling the entire story because she just ADORES this book and had me read it over and over.

UNT

2005-08-02T16:46:00.000-05:00

There are still some letter sounds and an occassional word that Charlotte has not begun to pronounce correctly.

Examples:
"Unt" for "I want"
"Wisdat" for "What is that?"
Any word beginning or containing "K" is still a "T".

David and I were joking that she'll be in college and ask the professor an upper level question beginning with "Wisdat?"

What in the World?

2005-08-01T16:41:00.000-05:00

Each day as naptime ends I greet my little girl in bed.
She wakes from her slumber either before or at my greeting.
A regular question upon her waking is "May I have snack and juice?"
Recently, Charlotte has begun to ask what I'll be making for Dinner because my prep work is part of our evening schedule.

Today, I replied, "I'm making Tacos for dinner."
"Tacos," she said." "What in the world are Tacos?!"

Did she say "What in the world?"...yup.
Where she gets that...I"ve asked and she claims it is from Nemo but a google.com and script check tell me NOPE.

Must Be

2005-07-30T08:18:00.000-05:00

On our way to apple picking at Homestead Orchards in Woodstock, IL, Charlotte had one of her big word moments.
David pointed out a computer company's headquarters and commented on their manicured property.

"Is that Disney?", asked Charlotte remembering her friend Gwenyth's constant musings at her then upcoming and present trip to the land of Mouse.
"No", said David, "that is a computer company."
"Oh, I thought that was Disney, I must be mistaken."

Happens to the best of us Charlotte.

Aunt Michelle

2005-07-28T12:31:00.000-05:00

We have a new playgroup friend named Michelle.
Charlotte learns her friends' names quickly but is occassionally confused by people who have names in common. This is exhibited most hysterically when she calls her new little friend, "Aunt Michelle" because of her Aunt.
It is all so confusing.

Caring for the Animals

2005-07-27T12:29:00.000-05:00

Charlotte set up a little gathering of animals. There they are, her rocking unicorn, Bobo the Bunny on Tigger chair, and a pile of books. She sits with them and whispers the stories as she turns the pages for them to see.

Food 4 Less

2005-07-26T12:25:00.000-05:00

Charlotte loves nice people...don't we all?!
Today when approaching our supermarket she announced, "I just love Food 4 Less".
So do I Charlotte...the people are amazing and the prices are the the best.
We enjoy being pampered by all the staff. Charlotte especially enjoys the complimentary stickers that she gets each time we go.

Prepared for Punishment

2005-07-25T21:21:00.000-05:00

There is an occassional need to actually punish our little angel.
A recent "battle" has been Charlotte's propensity to ask for a second potty trip after going to bed within seconds of finishing our bedtime songs and kisses. We've warned her and warned her again to make all her pee pee all at once when we take her before going to bed. Nonetheless, time and time again she waits two seconds or less to ask for another trip.

Last night David told her that if she does this again tonight she would have to forfeit one of her bedtime books.
After her pee pee trip, four bedtime songs, hugs and kisses, we left her room with wishes for a pleasant night only to hear her on the baby monitor in the living room. So, off I went to her room and as I walked in the door I gently reminded her that I was there to not only take her pee pee as requested but needed a book from her bedtime selection.

There she was on her bed...book poised in hand and said to me, "I don't like this one much it's for you."

Ah, prepared for punishment and justifying her sad need to give up a book.
We're hoping that she will learn from the consequence even though she is taking it well.

Privacy

2005-07-24T21:20:00.000-05:00

Charlotte alerts us to the fact that she is heading toward the potty so that we can be there to finish the deal (wipe). Today she found us in the back part of the apartment wrapping up some work on a closet filled with boxes.

"I'm going to go poop", she announced, "but you may not come into the pooping area."

I feel priviledged to be allowed to clean her up after this momentus occassion.

Can't Get That Out of My Head

2005-07-22T19:54:00.000-05:00

Today we went to the library and as usual borrowed 7-10 books, a CD and two or three DVDs. On our recent run we picked up a copy of "There Was An Old Lady" in cartoon.

At dinner, though we had not watched it yet, Charlotte requested a choir-like rendition of "There was an Old Navy".
Poor kid could not get that phrase out of her head. She repeatedly tried to spit out "Old Lady" but kept the clothing store skipping on her internal record.

Checking for Accuracy

2005-07-22T14:06:00.000-05:00

"Eema, in "Finding Nemo" Marlin is Nemo's Daddy and Dori is Nemo's Mommy. Is that correct?" Charlotte asked as she chewed on some tofu and rice for lunch.

I corrected the relationship...Dori just being a friend and she went right on with lunch.

"IS THAT CORRECT?"...kid, your language skills wow me every day.

PS...If Marlin and Dori live together long enough they'll be common law but that's a different story.

Great way to wake up

2005-07-20T22:34:00.000-05:00

At 4:05pm I found a little girl standing over my sleeping bod on the couch.
"Wake up my beautiful Eema", she says. "Is it time to wake up yet?"

Ah, what a great way to wake up!

Just Too Long (July 14)

2005-07-17T20:54:00.000-05:00

We are having a wonderful time with Andrea and Gwenyth visiting. The girls are enjoying playing, reading and giggling.

For some reason Charlotte had taken to calling Gwenyth - Ethan.
"Why are you calling her Ethan," David asked inquisitively without being upset.
"Her name is long and it is easier to call her Ethan," Charlotte replied.

Where Does She Get This?

2005-07-12T10:12:00.000-05:00

David is leaving to go pick up Andrea and Gwenyth from the airport for their 8 day visit.

"Have a safe trip", Charlotte calls after David after he closes the door to our apartment.

"Where does she get this?", he whispers through the door.
"From us", I reply.

Only YOU can teach your child polite and caring behavior.

In Fact

2005-07-10T08:10:00.000-05:00

My girlfriend Jacqui and I were marveling at the mirror our children pose to our frequent use of phrases. Would someone Plllleeease tell me if I say "In Fact".

Charlotte brought me a tissue and asked me if I needed to blow my nose. Then she adds, "In Fact, I've brought you two just in case".

In fact, it made me giggle!

Happy Birthday no clue

2005-07-09T21:07:00.000-05:00

This morning was Uncle Adam's birthday. Charlotte has gotten use out of her love of singing by doing so for many a birthday. Poor kid: she's got 20 aunts and uncles and 2 great ones. So when asked for a rendition of the song for Uncle Adam the poor wee one needs a good memory to figure out the end of the line...

"Happy Birthday dear....blah blah....happy birthday to you".

And, oh, remember which Uncle Adam because there are two: Dara's and Aviva's!

Calling all Female Grandparents

2005-07-08T12:04:00.000-05:00

Never ask your child to show off.

Last week, Charlotte asked for a toy phone in bed to speak to Nana (David's mom).
So, today we asked Charlotte to tell Nana how much she had wanted to speak to her on a real phone.

Instead of relaying that information, Charlotte told Nana that she had wanted to call Savta (my mom). UGH.

So, like I said, Never ask your child to show off.

What a Sentence

2005-07-07T22:06:00.000-05:00

Charlotte has pleasant memories of our time with visitors and those we visit. She enjoyed time with Mark and Debbie, Miriam and Ivan, Ellen and Rebecca, and Rabbi Michael and his kids.

This morning Charlotte asked, "Which one of Rabbi Michael's kids was hugging me and holding me?"

Wow, that was a long sentence and a keen memory of those she loves to be with.

There is so much terminology that was unknown and not created as I grew up in the 70s. How funny it is to hear Charlotte use a plethora of words that were not even in my vocabulary until their creation in the mid-80s or even later.

This evening we were sitting on the couch watching one of Charlotte's 30 minute (2 time a day) TV watching times. The DVD comes on and I move past the previews with a touch of a button. The next screen appears and Charlotte says, "Menu".

Soon she'll be using the remote...I'm sure!

Pause

2005-07-05T09:39:00.000-05:00

David was sitting at Charlotte's table with her. There are two plain wooden chairs seated at a plain wooden table. Charlotte is eating her snack - a granola bar and some watered down juice (you know this sugar thing). David is reading to Charlotte. She stops him because she has to pee and says, "Pause the book please". Ah, the world of DVDs and VCRs!

Loud Noises

2005-07-04T19:47:00.000-05:00

There was a time when Charlotte did not appreciate any loud noises and would greet us with screams and tears in response to this offensive annoyance. We thought that this time in the life of Charlotte was mostly in the past. After booming Klezmer music at a wedding we attended in Toledo, Ohio two weeks prior...it seemed that this was a fact.

Today, is July 4 and Charlotte firmly placed her hands over her ears each time a band or aforementioned noise offender would pass by. I guess that she only enjoys certain kinds of loudness. Hmmmm?

Sense of Directions

2005-07-03T16:31:00.000-05:00

Charlotte has taken a liking to maps. She enjoys being a part of the navigation during trips both long and short. We've allowed her to have parts of mapquest printouts. David is teaching her the ups, downs and a variety of map reading techniques.

As we drive, Charlotte lets me know when to "turn left", "turn right" and "go straight". Though these directions are just for fun...she does have a clear sense of when we're near home, when we are near the library or children's museum.
Oh good... she's got a sense of direction:)

Back To Blogging

2005-07-01T13:38:00.000-05:00

Between our vacation and our computer being down..I'm now, finally, back to blogging.

Please x3 or nothing

2005-06-23T22:19:00.000-05:00

Charlotte is a polite girl at heart. We know that when she asks for something kindly that it is not the lack of "Please" that makes it rude. When reminding her that she is not being truly polite she phrases her request as such: (just fill in the blank)
"Please may I please have _________________ please".

I guess she becomes overenthusiastically polite in light of missing that first chance at Please.

Does Anyone Really Know What Time It Is?

2005-06-17T12:25:00.000-05:00

Questions from Charlotte that I've found difficult to answer:

"Is it tomorrow today?"
"Is it next week now?"
"Is it tonight this morning?"

She has some time confusion though she understands that she has a schedule and even knows most of the days of the week. I'm SO confused.

Oh I Love....

2005-06-16T17:30:00.000-05:00

We know that Oscar the Grouch loves trash.
How long did it take him to decide that this was his favorite thing in life?

Charlotte loves sand. She can sit in a sandbox at the park for two hours.
How do I know this...well, she did it last park visit and was not near the same mark today but enjoyed every moment. She pours it on herself: feet, arms, legs and will attempt to bury the foot of anyone who will agree to be a test subject. When we arrive home it is necessary to take off all her clothes and wipe her down from head to toe. Ah, bath night is always on Thursdays or any other park day.

And to think that not so long ago Charlotte was phobic about getting dirty.

Monkey Grandparents?

2005-06-14T13:15:00.000-05:00

At breakfast, Charlotte sang:
"Papa and Savta jumping on the bed.
One fell off and bumped their head.
Mama called the doctor
and the doctor said, "No more Papa and Savta jumping on the bed".

Savta = Hebrew for Grandma

15 Minute Story

2005-06-13T21:46:00.000-05:00

A 15 Mintue story was told at the dinner table. We sat in awe as she described swimming bunnies that said "glub glub", flying bees and parts we did not understand. Four times we reached THE END and clapped...only to begin again with "Once Upon A Time". This was an amazing adventure and we've got it on tape.

Who Do Love?

2005-06-10T21:45:00.000-05:00

Why would Charlotte ask this...she surely knows and maybe was baiting the line?!
To her Savta (Grandma) she asked: "Who Do You Love?"

I Just Love. . .

2005-06-06T13:46:00.000-05:00

Upon pulling up to Walgreen's (a local pharmacy/store), Charlotte announced:
"I just love Walgreen's!"

Ah, my little consumer.

Garage Sale

2005-06-05T18:44:00.000-05:00

We spent a portion of yesterday morning at Tammy, Jerome and Ava's Garage Sale. They are moving to San Diego in five or six weeks. I'm sad about their move but we had a blast just hanging out and shmoozing while the girls played.

This morning Charlotte asked, "Are we going to Ava's Garage Sale again?"
Does she get the concept or just figures that it is a fun place to sojourn with friends in front of their garage filled with stuff that random people drop buy to sift through and purchase?

Taking my Toys

2005-06-04T13:41:00.000-05:00

Why is it that Charlotte shares so nicely when we are with friends or family at our home but she obsesses about people coming over and having them "take my toys"?! It is an interesting phenomena that is going on with her. She has no reservations about letting you play with her stuff except for the Bunny twins (Bobo and Hebrew) but thinking about the playtime gives her angst.

On the Phone

2005-06-02T20:50:00.000-05:00

While at the Kohl's Children's Museum, I asked Charlotte to join me in another exhibit. She motioned to me from the phone she was on near a Chagal painting and said "One moment, I am on the phone".

Ah, the teenage years have begun. Any day now we'll have to get her a private line at home.

You Know Who You Like

2005-05-29T20:55:00.000-05:00

Out in Schaumburg, Illinois, we met with our dear friend Mark who was in on a wedding trip from his home in Atlanta. Again, we realized that Charlotte knows who she likes and makes sure that she gives them the perks of membership. From the first moment Mark was given make-believe gifts, was asked to read the books that he gave her as a gift and had a new girlfriend even as his real one came down to the lobby to meet us. Without question, it is as if Charlotte knows who she likes before she gets to know them more than a moment. But, then again, it is like her Daddy's "45 second rule"...she too knows if she likes someone right away. Mark, it seems, is one of the ones she like: ALOT.

No Battle Breakfasts

2005-05-27T18:54:00.000-05:00

David and I promised eachother that meals would NOT be a battle time. We swore that there would be no bribery, constant cajoling or heated discussion about eating. It seems that breakfast has become a battle of sorts and totally against our original plan. Today, we renew our pact and realize that she will not starve if she passes up a meal. She usually eats quite well if not too well sometimes. Charlotte's morning snack is only an hour plus around the corner so missing breakfast ain't so bad. Maybe she just enjoys the heat of battle? Maybe she is just genuinly not hungry some mornings? Who knows? But breakfast will NOT be a battle!

Choices

2005-05-26T17:46:00.000-05:00

Learning from your parents is something that (it seems to me) most children are unaware of at a young age.
Charlotte told me that her bunnies were being "not so good" and that they needed to be given choices.
"I told them that they could have Peter Rabbit or Boppy Bunny in bed with them but they decided to have none".
"What a good mommy you are", I said to her.
"Thank you," she replied.

I'm thankful that she not only knows that choices are an important part of life but they help her bunny children to behave well too.

Ch-ch-ch-anges

2005-05-25T19:48:00.000-05:00

Memories of Charlotte clinging to my leg at playgroup in Baltimore. They are not far distant but a clear thought of hoping she would take off on her own. And now, two days in a row visiting perspective preschools for the Fall, she does take off on her own out into the playground and classrooms to play among the children.

When wishes come true...smile and delight in them.

Rules

2005-05-16T17:54:00.000-05:00

You're never quite sure when your child actually GETS a concept that most of us take for granted. Rules, for instance. Today at lunch Charlotte and I talked about some of teh rules of our house, car and playtime. She commented that one rule in the house is "no hitting". That is when it struck me...she really GETS this rule thing!

Too Much

2005-05-15T14:43:00.000-05:00

When I ask David, "How much do I love you?"....the answer is expected: a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck.
Charlotte has a funny answer that makes us smile. "Too much", she says.
No my dear, we could never love you too much...we love you just enough and maybe even more.

What Color is YOUR cereal?

2005-05-15T14:36:00.000-05:00

We enjoy many kinds of cereal at our home for breakfast and the occassional snack. Usually it is what is on sale and a half/half of sugar versus healthy.
TOday at breakfast Charlotte announced that she wanted "Raisin Brown".
Well, I do enjoy the Raisin Bran cereal very much but have never dwelled on its color.
Raisin Brown it is Charlotte!

Doctor Charlotte

2005-05-11T13:58:00.000-05:00

Charlotte's empathy for peoples' scraps, scratches and illnesses has caused her to want to help. She knows the word "nee-oh-spowen" (translation - neosporin) and discusses the falls and colds her Bunnies have had.

Yesterday evening Charlotte asked if she could put Neosporin on my scraped toe. A silly incident with our coffee table has left me with a red skinless mark. She carefully applies the ointment and tells me it will be "all better".

It is not a teachable trait but one that is passed down from parent modeling.
I hope you're all doing well!

:)

Nickname

2005-05-05T22:45:00.000-05:00

Today we found out that our new arrival will be a boy.
Later I asked Charlotte what she would like to call her baby brother while he is still inside.

"Frog", she replied.
"I don't think he'll like that", David commented upon my retelling the story.

All Mine

2005-04-30T20:12:00.000-05:00

Charlotte returned to her Savta and Papa's house from a joyous visit to her Nana and Pops' house. Upon our entry she asked loudly, "are you mine?" to her Papa and Savta. What a concept...your loved ones are in part owned by you. Well, I do know that she owns part of their hearts.

Things Children Say

2005-04-28T21:00:00.000-05:00

It's been almost a week since my last update. We've been "vacationing" in Upstate NY for Passover. Charlotte has been a non-stop source of verbal excitement. She is a marvel to us and others. Here are a variety of comments from her and those she has "wowed".

"She has quite a mouth on her" - Jerry Garfinkle
"Kid's got a great personality" - Stu Klein

"Wissdat" (What is that).
"...are" (used to express plural appropriately).
"I will sing my nighttime songs to myself (and does all five)"
"May I touch the Clown Fish?" (referring to a plastic Nemo fish in a faux pond)
"You know what?" (I'm sure the first of many times that phrase is chanted)

What a joy!

and the Three Bears

2005-04-26T20:10:00.000-05:00

Charlotte has enjoyed the oral version of "Goldylocks and the Three Bears" as told by her Savta. She does have a very interesting way of pronouncing the name of our sunshiny heroine:

"Dodeeyoks"

In Your Belly

2005-04-22T15:05:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning Charlotte had an deep conversation with Papa (her Grandpa) and told him that her Bunny was her sister and that her brother was in my belly. An interesting concept my dear but we will not know the sex of the new baby until May 7th.

Red Light, Green Light, Purple Light?

2005-04-20T02:01:00.001-05:00

Tuesday morning on the way home from Target, Charlotte requested "Stop light painting". I was not sure what she meant but I figured that I had some sort of idea. Who taught her this phrase? ...no clue! Out from her art box I took the watercolors that come on a strip of colors in a circle. Yup, that was the request.

Make sense to me: "Stop Light Painting".

One Week Anniversary

2005-04-18T13:20:00.000-05:00

We're not making a big deal about this to her but Charlotte celebrated one week of naps and night sleep in her "big girl" bed. It is a proud occasion to know that Charlotte has done this by her own choosing and without any bribery, encouragement or words of wisdom from us. Each day she happily walks into her room in the afternoon and evening and climbs into her bed with her Bunny and other bedtime toys.

Mazal Tov on one week!

Elbow Scrape

2005-04-17T13:17:00.000-05:00

Charlotte has quite a high tolerance for pain. It is interesting that she barely lets out a cry when getting a scrap, bruise or such during a fall.

When I returned from work Charlotte proudly showed me the tiny bandaid adorning her elbow. David explained that she took a tumble when exiting our apartment's lobby and has a small scrap. She did not cry and took more interest in dressing it than crying about the obvious pain it must have created.

Good for you!

The Bed Goes On

2005-04-14T13:34:00.000-05:00

As each sleeptime/naptime approaches I do not even ask or suggest that her bed or crib are options. Charlotte has just seemed to gravitate and enjoy her new sleep place. I'm so proud of her and even more pleased that she does not seem to realize that leaving her bed is an option. She still calls to us in the night about 15 or 20 minutes after her bedtime ritual but does not leave bed.

On a lighter note: she has found that the bed allows her to play with her nighttime Bunny: Bobo and her datime Bunny: Hebrew together in her room. This morning we dressed them both and they had a grand time reading books. Bobo is not normally allowed out of bed and now is confined to her room.

Just Because

2005-04-12T12:53:00.000-05:00

We've all heard it: "Because I said so" OR "Just Because" OR other phrases like that. Well, I guess I must use one similar to that.

While on the Target checkout line Charlotte was doing her usual as she converesed with everyone on line and the cashier.

"I've got my Bunny with me today...." and she paused.
"Because that's just the way it is."

She was not being rude but just a matter of fact that this is the way the world is - Charlotte travels with Bunny...no questions asked.

Big or Little ....Milestones

2005-04-11T14:20:00.000-05:00

Some milestones may loom in the distance, seemingly huge and utterly astonishing in thoughts of tackling them.

Last night, Charlotte and David put together her white plastic Graco toddler bed. She brought in her play tools and marveled at the unwrapping of the mattress as well. Next, Charlotte announced that she would be sleeping there all night and alas, she did! Not one exit from her room or complaint about crib re-entry.
Today, she climbed right in during naptime and made no mention of the crib. We're having regular bedtime rituals (animals, songs, books, water drink and kisses) and nothing additional.

Mazal Tov to Charlotte on seeing what this mileston is: a new world of pleasant slumber.

Sandwich continued

2005-04-09T21:33:00.000-05:00

She has asked for more sandwich time and insists that on top of the vegetables...she now needs a fork:)

Charlotte Sandwich

2005-04-09T08:15:00.000-05:00

While on the bed with Charlotte...David and I had her in a hug sandwich and announced "Charlotte Sandwich". "What's on the sandwich?" David asked.

"Lettuce," Charlotte giggled.
"What else?" I asked.
"Tomoato," Charlotte replied.
"Anything else?" David asked.
"Cheese," Charlotte answered and asked for more hugging.

THE LONG HIATUS on blogging is now over. Between travel, guests and family illness...it's been a tough couple of weeks but I'm back on. Thanks for keeping up with the site! Sheri:)

I'm Revolving Something

2005-03-25T20:29:00.000-06:00

At the Children's Museum of Chicago there are a plethora of activities and playtime things to catch a child's attention. And there she is listening to a phone talking about discrimination and doodling on a paper.

"Come on over Charlotte, it is time to leave this exhibit".
"Not yet Eema, I'm revolving something."

An interesting reply.

A Different Take on Fruit

2005-03-23T20:33:00.000-06:00

When serving Charlotte some Fruit Cocktail for breakfast due to our lack of Bananas...she annnounced that she wanted more "Peter Cotton Tail". Ah, Fruit has a new spin...a friendly fuzzy creature.

PBS on the Brain

2005-03-23T13:35:00.000-06:00

While at library Charlotte eyed an "Arthur" book and announced that his little sister's name was PBS. In fact, it is D.W. and that just made me giggle out loud. We watch Calliou and Arthur each day. One is right on her age level and the other is a bit old but she loves it.

So sorry for the hiatus. Will be more dilligent with writing.

All Alone

2005-03-15T21:25:00.000-06:00

Yesterday David told Charlotte that he would be in Pennsylvania for three days. This, on the tail of a one week stay at Kitt Peak Observatory in Arizona, had Charlotte saying "I do not want to be alone."

"No," said David, "Eema and Rachel will be here to take care of you."

Charlotte was relieved, brushed it off but tonight called from her DVD watching as I did the dishes and said, "I'm lonely, come watch with me".

I think the kid is ready for us all to be home for a while!

Sad Day in Bunny History

2005-03-14T21:49:00.000-06:00

Monday was a sad day in Bunny history. For some odd reason Charlotte vomited during naptime. She did not seem so under the weather, does not have a fever and is only still mildly drippy from the nasal area. Nonetheless, she has decimated Bobo Nighttime Bunny and sent me scrambling to the phone to call Build-a-Bear while David rescued her from her smelly clothing.

Love those BAB people. They instructed me on proper surgery procedures to remove said smelly stuffing and launder her, only to await a visit to BAB for a free restuffing when we're actually AT Navy Pier in two weeks.

And, the crying ensued that evening when there was no Bunny. Finally, we gave in and allowe daytime Hebrew Bunny to join her at night. Yes, it's name is Hebrew, she named it and it stuck.

Ah, separation from an animal I had hoped she would not attach so firmly to. UGH. But for now, daytime Bunny is a nighttime friend and others are joining us on our errands and such in town. We'll see what this all means later.

Mop Latin

2005-03-13T19:15:00.000-06:00

Charlotte has created her own funny name language: Mop Latin.
She calls herself: Charmop.
Emma: Emmop.
Daddy: Dadmop.
Rachel the babysitter: Rachmop.

It is funny and makes her laugh too.
What would make her think of this?
Creative and a bit strange.

Daddy Blues

2005-03-12T18:29:00.000-06:00

After six days of Daddy in Arizona, Charlotte has decided that she was going to spend today with Daddy blues. She has asked for him about a thousand times and made me miss him too.

At this moment, he is on the tarmac awaiting the signal that all passengers may run for the exits. So, the question is: Do I want him to get home before her bedtime and allow her a chance to see him and then possibly not want to go to sleep at all? OR...Do I want him to come home a little later and have him all to myself? It is a serious toss up because his plane has not emptied yet and it is 6:30. Getting his luggage and the taxi ride could push him past 8pm or not. UGH. I'll letcha know.

Feel Better Bunnies

2005-03-10T20:23:00.000-06:00

Today Charlotte was under the weather. She's got a bit of a fever, drippy nose and just the ickies. We spent much of the day surfing from one PBS station to Nick Jr. to another PBS station.

During my lunch preparations, Charlotte plopped herself and Bunny on two kid-sized chairs at the opening to the kitchen. She began telling a story to Bunny:

"Once upon a time there was a little Bunny who was very sad. She was not feeling very well and needed some medicine. The medicine did not taste good but she was a good Bunny and ate it all up. The Bunny will feel better soon."

Her grammar astounds me!

A dose of meds before naptime should help your sleep as well my little Charlotte.

Berenstain Country Music

2005-03-09T13:07:00.000-06:00

In the car on the way to the library I took a chance and left on some Radio rather than the Wiggles or another children's selection. Ah, 99.5 Country.
"What kind of music is this?"
"Country", I replied.
A pause and the next song begins.
"This is like Berenstain Bears music (referring to their title theme song.
"Ah, yes, it is similar to the Berenstain song but not the same words."
"I like this music Eema".

And now, it is 99.5 Berenstain Country Music:)

A Good Helper

2005-03-07T20:41:00.000-06:00

"I Love to go shopping with you Eema"
"We are going to Food4Less"
"I will put apples into the bags"
This is the conversation from the back seat as we head to the supermarket.
"Yes, Charlotte, I love to go shopping with you because you are a good helper."
A pause. Thinking ensues.
"Yes, Eema, I love to go shopping with you because you are a good Eema."

Thank you. I needed that:)

Quote from Cousin Ethan

2005-03-04T19:55:00.000-06:00

When eating a granola bar from our home, Ethan noted unhappily that the chocolate parts tasted like Raisins. That's because it was a raisin granola bar...not chocolate hun.

Company

2005-03-04T19:53:00.001-06:00

We've got company this weekend: Aunt Michelle and Cousin Ethan.
A couple of quotes from Charlotte are....
"Cousin Ethe is here"
"I like your pretty star necklace" (to Michelle)
"I like your pretty coat" (again to Michelle. such a girl.)
"Can Ethan sleep in my bed?" (no, he's your cousin honey)

They are having a grand time together and are playing like pals.

Blessing Out In The Open

2005-02-28T10:15:00.000-06:00

Each Friday evening Charlotte looks forward to setting the table for Shabbat with her Daddy when he returns from work. Tablecloth, candlesticks, wine goblet, grape juice, Challah tray, Challah cover, Challah, and some other things I can't remember but I'm sure she would.

Before dinner is served we bless the candles, wine and grape juice. Charlotte enjoys joining in on these blessing but I guess we didn't realize how much she is involved.

Last week I did some Dollar Store shopping for some playtime Shabbat tablesettings for Charlotte's IKEA table. On Saturday morning, she set her small table, sat with her Bunny and began to say a blessing over the candles: "Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheynu Melech HaOlam, Asher Kidshanu Bmitzvotav Vitzivanu, L'hadlik Nare Shel Shabbat".

David and I stared at eachother and tried to not to distract her from this amazing task. This is the longer of the blessing (shorter end in HaOlam and a short ending) and not one we rehearse with her at all other than Friday evenings. She is now saying the blessing over and over to anyone who is interested in hearing.

This is not a blessing in disguise...it is a blessing out in the open for sure....shinning in our presence. G-d has blessed us with her.

A Wider Selection of Wine with your Cheese

2005-02-26T11:05:00.001-06:00

We are trying to figure out tactics and strategies that will reduce Charlotte's whining. She seems to ask for things in such a distasteful whinny voice and mostly when she's with David. Any ideas? We are trying to impress upon her that she can have almost every reasonable request granted when she asks in a normal voice. Then again, if this is the only side effect of age Two...not bad at all.

Consumer

2005-02-25T17:42:00.000-06:00

When sorting through some magazine clippings that I've got in a folder for her, Charlotte announced, "that movie is at Savta and Papa's house", referring to Monsters Inc.. Then she added, "maybe we need one for our house?!"

Ah, the consumer in all of us has sprouted in Charlotte :)

The Other Hand

2005-02-23T22:18:00.000-06:00

My Dad says that this is delightfully imaginative and I just say it is quite quirky.
Charlotte has been scolding one hand for doing bad unto the other: taking bread, hitting herself, etc.. She does not do this for attention...I've given her none. It seems like an internal conversation. Comments?

Back Again

2005-02-21T17:56:00.000-06:00

So, now, after I've had strep and Charlotte had three days of temps between 102 and 103.5, I'm back to the blog. There were many things worth commenting on but I jotted down 0 of them. Usually I use a notepad stuck to the fridge but nope!
I'll see if I can jog my memory at all.

Difficult Words

2005-02-14T20:11:00.000-06:00

Boy, some words or phrases are incredibly difficult to say.
Today, we began our preschool day by climbing and traversing an Obstacle Course. Goodness, did she try to say that phrase throughout the day. "Obsooltors", "Abboters" and finally, "We climbed up steps and over pillows and went down a slide". Too funny.

New Table

2005-02-12T21:31:00.000-06:00

It is amazing to think that Charlotte learns from each moment of her day. This is apparent as we set out her new IKEA table that we finally painted and put together. Immediatly, if not sooner, Charlotte sat her Bunny down and set the table with plastic dinnerware from Aunt Dara. She invited Bunny to dine with her and enjoyed her new table.

And I thought that I'd have to "teach" her about setting the table. I'm even going to get her some dollar store cloth napkins to fold and set. She is sure to ask for Shabbat-ware!

Updates and Back on Track

2005-02-10T13:56:00.000-06:00

Now that the first trimester ickiness seems to be behind me for teh mostpart...I will be back on track with writing and attempt to get back to my daily installments of fun and frolic from the life of Charlotte Dahlia.

Some updates:

* Charlotte is using the word "perfect" in an interesting way:
"that would be a perfect size for Bunny" - referring to a pair of leggings.
"some noodles with lunch would be perfect".

*Charlotte has been creating appropriate alternate meanings words such as: when I stepped in front of the TV she said that I had "dissappeared it".

Ah, the language of toddlers.

The Land of Make-Believe

2005-02-04T17:41:00.000-06:00

Ahh, how the make believe world is one filled with joy and fun. Bunny is one lucky animal with daily feedings of yummy food, baths, and much love. Charlotte has found an entry way into this terrific world. She can spend much time expressing herself quitly and sometimes not so quietly in a magical mystical way. It is interesting to hear her flesh out scenes that do not include "real toys" and come up with desires such as some "make believe cheese for bunny".

If you're every a bit blue...just find your key to the land of make believe. The door still exists in your dreams.

2005-02-04T14:32:00.000-06:00

Growing Up So Quickly

To Make You Feel All Better

2005-02-02T19:47:00.000-06:00

"Here Eema," Charlotte says with a voice of a tiny angel, "have a toy to make you feel all better."
She is so concerned about my well being and feeling well at all times. She notices when I'm letting the nausea get to me. Charlotte has a deep sense of empathy and will try to do things that you do for her when she is not well. Besides the toys, she will rub my back and give me gentle hugs without being taught this.

Some Cheese With That

2005-01-30T20:45:00.000-06:00

And the whining has begun. We're both trying to make sure that it does not grate our skin or make us forget how funny Charlotte is behind the Year Two attitude.

Dinner this evening was homemade Mushroom Soup ala Moosewood cookbook and Falafel. Sadly, the pita ended up being moldy so we resorted to quick oven roasted Tortillas. Charlotte started to pull apart the non-existent halves of the tortilla and enjoyed her veggies, tahini but left the falafel balls. What an interesting way to enjoy a tortilla...did you know that they have layers?

And the Journey Begins Again

2005-01-29T20:23:00.000-06:00

So, you've been wondering why I've been out of sight for so long? Well, the journey begins again, as it did with Charlotte: stuffed sinuses, extereme nausea and weakness. Charlott will be joined by a sibling in September. I am back to writing and you can rely on me to keep up with the Wonders of Year Two.

Singer

2005-01-17T20:05:00.000-06:00

How nice it is to hear the sounds of "Twinkle, Twinkle" or "Strumming on the Ol' Banjo" coming from her room in the morning or as she is playing in the evening. Charlotte has become a songstress. She enjoys a plethora of songs and sings many of them alone.

Our bedtime ritual includes an acapella duet of David and myself singing requests such as "Little Bunny Cottontail" and "Little Bunny Foofoo". She also enjoys music during breakfast and David has introduced her to U2. She loves "Where the Streets Have No Name" among others.

Music is an important part of our lives.

Break

2005-01-12T16:50:00.000-06:00

There will be a break in writing for a while. My back is officially out of commision. The ache began on Saturday and took its course through last night. This morning's biggest challenge was getting the small human out of her bed. She has been quite helpful. Our babysitter is making some extra money and super-Daddy is returning from California two days early. He'll be home after Rachel puts Charlotte to bed. You won't hear from me for a while. G-d willing I'll be on some kind of muscle relaxant through the weekend.

They Have To Be Cooked

2005-01-10T17:12:00.000-06:00

It is interesting that some kids do not put things in their mouths and some do. Throughout Charlotte's life she has not placed non-food items into her mouth. Even this evening, while doing a noodle/glue art project she announced that the noodles - "They have to be cooked".

My little epicurian.

But I Like to Play with Them

2005-01-09T19:41:00.000-06:00

Charlotte has a recent interest in pressing her hands gently against my breasts. She says that they are nice. The only problem is that she enjoys this passtime while on line at the grocery and other public places.

Ah, she is her father's daughter:)

Sneeze

2005-01-08T20:25:00.000-06:00

Charlotte has a bit of a cold...just a runny drippy nose and a tiny cough. She must hear "God Bless You" over and over throughout the day. While changing her diaper, I sneezed and Charlotte chimed "Ah Bless You".

Ah, bless you too Charlotte.

Munster Cheese

2005-01-06T14:06:00.000-06:00

I've been eating a piece of fruit and a slice or two of Munster cheese for breakfast each day. This morning Charlotte asked for a slice of cheese. "Here, this is called Munster cheese". Charlotte ate a nibble, if that, and proclaimed that it was yucky. "It is for Monsters", she said and walked away.

DISsed for a Bunny

2005-01-05T14:18:00.000-06:00

Words of wisdom were obviously being rambled at light speed from the back seat. "What did you say?", David inquired. "I'm speaking to Bunny", Charlotte replied. WOW...dissed for a Bunny.

Charlotte has been playing imaginatively with her stuffed friends for a while but only recently (last month) has she engaged in full length discussions and motherly tones with them. "Watch out Bunny, you'll get hurt". "Which color goldfish would you like to eat Bunny". and on and on.

So, before I ask her what she was saying to ME, I've got to listen a bit to make sure she is actually speaking to the parental unit sitting in the front seat:)

Her Own Phone Line

2005-01-04T19:48:00.000-06:00

And now she WANTS to speak on the phone and wont let me get a word in edgewise. Who'da thunk that my little girl, the one who despised any note of a suggestion as to talking on the phone, would spend today wanting to talk to Daddy, Aunt Daya (Dara), Unca Micah (Uncle Michael) and Safta. Good for her, not so great for me. We'll have to get her her own phone line.