Sophia & Isabel Johnson

Arbor Day at the Houston Arboretum

2012-01-28T19:19:00.009-06:00

We went to the Houston Arboretum for their Arbor Day celebration. They had tons of crafts, including making a pine cone bird feeder.

And planting a pine seedling seed in a cup of dirt.

It was a nice day to be outside, and we wandered around the trails, and played in the playground. They had trucks all around, and Isabel kept helping the older boys fill up their dump trucks.

She also kept trying to crawl through a huge tube.

Sophia liked the rope bridge.

This afternoon, we cleaned up the backyard -- mowed the grass, raked and swept, pruned the shrubs, cleaned and fixed the gutters, and hung our new bird feeder. Phew!

Library and a walk

2012-01-25T20:03:00.003-06:00

We went to the library for storytime, and arrived early enough for the kids to play on the chairs.

It was the fun librarian again, and while Sophia danced, Isabel played with some paper she had found.

It poured today, and Isabel liked trying out her new boots to walk in the puddles.

Sophia is making more Valentine's Day crafts with all her stickers and paper.

Sophia's carrot from the garden

2012-01-24T19:53:00.003-06:00

They have a small garden in the playground at Sophia's school, and the kids help water it and watch things grow. Today, Sophia had helped to pick a carrot, and brought it home, washed it, and ate the whole thing. She was very proud.

While Sophia was at school, Allison and Isabel went to the tot spot at the Children's Museum, where Isabel liked driving the cars.

Isabel was also happy to find a staircase with a toddler-sized hand rail. She has been trying to walk up and down stairs at home as an adult would, but gets frustrated because the railing is too high.

Isabel's first Gymboree class

2012-01-23T19:34:00.002-06:00

While Sophia was at preschool, Allison took Isabel to her first Gymboree class. She loved it, and there was lots of stuff to climb on and keep her occupied.

She liked playing in this one area under the slides.

She wasn't wary of anything and easily climbed and rolled around.

Around home

2012-01-20T19:30:00.002-06:00

We haven't done too much this week. We met a friend at the playground yesterday which was fun. Otherwise, the girls have played around home. Isabel tried on the new hat that Allison finally finished sewing. It's a little bit big, but not too bad!

Sophia still loves tying knots, and is tying the jumping rope around her foot.

She has been sewing a bit more. She made 2 pouches already (Doggy and Dodo's winter clothes).

While Sophia sews, Isabel plays in the sand.

Blue Bell Ice Cream Factory

2012-01-16T18:38:00.002-06:00

Nils had the day off (for Martin Luther King Jr day), so we (again) visited the Blue Bell Ice Cream Factory, in Brenham, Texas, about 1.5 hours away. Daniel and Diane joined us too.

Of course the tour ends with free samples. Sophia ordered vanilla for herself.

Afterwards, we drove into downtown Brenham for lunch. While walking to lunch we passed by a small park with the town's old water works on display.

Playing outside

2012-01-14T19:18:00.002-06:00

Nils took the kids to the Children's Museum this morning, and then we went for a walk around the block this afternoon (Sophia biked, and Isabel pushed her stroller -- though she only got about 3 houses).

Isabel had done more collecting than walking, and then wanted to take all her leaves inside. We convinced her to put them in a bucket instead.

Isabel also liked running inside the house while we were all still outside. She would then bang on the window to get our attention.

Getting some cuddles.

Playing outside

2012-01-13T21:19:00.001-06:00

We went to Home Depot and the playground this morning, and then played outside this afternoon.

Some photos courtesy of Sophia.

A new fish

2012-01-13T21:10:00.003-06:00

We went to the pet store yesterday to buy a Betta fish. The kids loved feeding the one at Grandma and Grandpa's house. Sophia carefully carried him home.

Getting ready to transfer him to his new bowl.

Very excited about seeing the fish eat his food.

Back at home

2012-01-11T20:03:00.002-06:00

We're all getting settled back into routine now. Sophia enjoyed running around outside, after getting home from the airport.

For our first dinner back, Isabel insisted on sitting at the table in a booster seat (and not her high chair), since we had let her do that once in Vancouver. We'll see what happens. Being up so early, the girls had adjusted to the time change by bedtime.

We had a quiet day at home -- ran some errands, and went to the playground, and played at home. Sophia is enjoying our new toddler chair.

And playing with play doh in the backyard.

Flight to Houston

2012-01-10T19:59:00.000-06:00

We had a very early flight (7am) back to Houston. It was no fun waking the kids up at 4am, but we made it. Here they are at the airport, waiting to board.

And on the plane. Both did pretty well, considering they were tired.

Isabel played with an empty juice bottle for ages. Who needs toys?

Dinner with the Tecters

2012-01-08T21:41:00.000-06:00

John, Lynne, Bryan and Rochelle came over for dinner. The girls liked having a party, and Sophia got all dressed up for it. Lynne brought the "princess" Christmas crackers over for the girls, which Sophia enjoyed.

Isabel just played peekaboo with her crown.

Sophia also helped take down the Christmas ornaments and tree.

Sophia sewing

2012-01-08T20:47:00.000-06:00

Sophia was very interested in Grandma's sewing, so Grandma taught her to sew this visit. Sophia has picked it up really quickly, and has even made a few French Knots.

Old Spaghetti Factory

2012-01-07T21:54:00.001-06:00

We had dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory.

Snowing at Mt. Seymour

2012-01-07T21:27:00.005-06:00

We went back to My Seymour to play in the snow, and it was snowing. It was so beautiful, and everyone loved frolicking and tobogganing.

Isabel liked picking up snow and "throwing" it, like a snowball.

Sophia liked catching it on her tongue.

Having lunch, and hot chocolate, in the lodge.

After lunch, we had propped the cooler on the sled, and that's when Isabel decided she wanted to go on it. She wouldn't let us remove the cooler.

Playground & Visit with Zetta

2012-01-06T20:59:00.002-06:00

We went to the library for some new books, and the girls enjoyed playing with some of the toys.

Then we walked over to the playground.

Sophia tried a tire swing for the first time.

This afternoon, Allison's friend Jill and daughter Zetta came by. Isabel liked playing with someone around her age.

Isabel wasn't sure why someone else was sitting in her high chair, but she was content to sit with Jill during snack time.

Feeding the ducks (again)

2012-01-05T21:06:00.001-06:00

We took the girls to feed the ducks this morning. Both of them just love it.
Guess it tired Sophia out.

Ride on the Skytrain

2012-01-04T21:16:00.002-06:00

Allison and Sophia went swimming again this morning, and then Grandpa took her for a short ride on the Skytrain in the afternoon. Sophia had been very interested in the Skytrain since we had seen it a lot while driving around.

A rainy day (the mall and around home)

2012-01-03T21:10:00.000-06:00

We went to Brentwood Mall on a rainy morning. They have a kids' area with a small merry-go-round. Sophia and Isabel enjoyed the ride!

We bought Isabel some new pyjamas, and when we got home realized they match Sophia's. Here they are in the morning.

Isabel likes to explore the cupboards, and is especially fond of the beer cans.

She must take after Nils. We intervened when she started to walk around and tap together 2 glass bottles.

Ice Skating (again)

2012-01-02T20:54:00.000-06:00

Nils left very early for the airport, since he is back to work on Tuesday. We took Sophia skating again. They didn't have the bars, but she got pretty good at holding onto our hands (both Allison and Casey would each hold an arm).

She also liked to take a lot of breaks on the hockey bench.

Watching the zamboni get ready to clean the ice.

Barnet Beach

2012-01-01T20:34:00.003-06:00

We went for a walk at Barnet Beach on a cold, early New Year's Day morning.

Isabel liked running around the old fort.

Despite not talking, Isabel is still very vocal.

Sophia liked playing in the sand and water.

Granville Island

2011-12-31T20:38:00.000-06:00

Allison, Nils and Audrey took Sophia to Granville Island, where she rode a horse in the KidsMarket.

Enjoying a leisurely lunch at the market.

At home, Sophia rode her bike (with her dress) on our walk.

The Nutcracker

2011-12-30T20:20:00.003-06:00

Audrey and Allison took Sophia to see the Nutcracker ballet at the Queen Elizabeth theatre downtown. She had to miss her afternoon nap, so it was a special day! Sophia sat through the whole performance, and didn't ask too many questions.

Port Moody walk

2011-12-30T12:25:00.002-06:00

We went to Rocky Point in Port Moody for a walk around the water. The kids liked walking on the pier and watching some men unload their boat into the water.

We stopped at the playground before heading home.

Lunch with Carl and Gladys

2011-12-29T20:30:00.000-06:00

While Allison and Casey were skiing, Nils took Sophia to see Carl and Gladys, where they got to stay for lunch in their cafeteria.

Skiing at Cypress

2011-12-29T19:38:00.000-06:00

Allison and Casey went skiing at Cypress Mountain. The clouds cleared and we had some nice views, before it started to snow before leaving.

Lunch in the new lodge.

Memories of the Olympics.

Snowshoeing and visit with Holly

2011-12-28T21:08:00.004-06:00

Nils and Allison went snowshoeing at Cypress Mountain with Allison's friend Holly.

Heading into the hut for lunch.

It looked like it might clear up when we started out in the morning, but actually just got foggier. On a clear day, Vancouver Island and the Strait of Georgia would be visible behind Holly.

Playing with the girls after their naps.

Holly got Sophia and Isabel a cute Christmas gift.

Cuddles at dinner.

While we were snowshoeing, Grandma and Grandpa took the kids to the library and playground.

A good view of Isabel's cut lip which she got yesterday while climbing (supervised) on a stool.

Vancouver Aquarium

2011-12-27T20:49:00.004-06:00

We went to the Aquarium this morning.

Isabel loved going from one window to the next to see all the fish.

Watching the beluga show.

We went out for a yummy seafood lunch afterwards.

Around Home

2011-12-27T20:36:00.002-06:00

Some photos from around home from the past few days. Nils has been busy with his play doh and legos.

Dodo had a small tear on his face, so went for surgery at the dolly hospital (aka Grandma's sewing table).

Sophia watched very intently as he was stitched up. She was happy to get him back.

Ever since Christmas, all Sophia has wanted to wear is her dress. This is how we found her one morning, after she had been in her room for awhile getting dressed. She had pulled her stool up to her bureau, to make a dressing/make-up table, and was applying lots and lots of lip balm. She had managed to get her dress on (backwards, so she can zip it up herself), and tights and shoes.

Grandpa put Isabel in the tote bag -- she loved it!

Trying hot chocolate for the first time.

Going for a walk in the rain (and wearing her dress).

At least Isabel still lets us dress her.

Christmas dinner at the Tecters

2011-12-25T21:39:00.002-06:00

When we went to get Sophia up from her nap, she had already dressed herself -- in her dress, tights, and shoes. Here she is having a snack before heading out to dinner.

We went to Allison's relatives for dinner. Also there were her cousin's girlfriend and her parents. We had a yummy turkey and the girls were the hit of the night!

Opening some presents before dinner.

Nils and Lynne's mom.

Isabel liked the corner of the couch.

She also liked Bryan's girlfriend, Rochelle, who played with her.

For dinner, Sophia and Isabel had special princess crackers, with kid-sized crowns -- pretty cute!

Getting tired after dinner.

Before leaving, Sophia played legos on her own with Alex, Bryan and Rochelle.

Christmas morning

2011-12-25T15:44:00.001-06:00

Sophia woke up Christmas morning very excited to see that Santa had come (and eaten the milk and cookie). She took a couple of toys from her stocking, and then we ate breakfast.

Sophia likes to pour her own maple syrup on the pancakes.

Then we opened presents. Sophia liked using scissors to cut the ribbon. Isabel still didn't quite understand about opening them, but she did like playing with the toys that Sophia unwrapped.

Sophia unwrapped her present for Doggy and Dodo that she had made -- couldn't forget about them!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T21:07:00.003-06:00

We all got dressed up for Christmas Eve mass (we went to the children's service at 4pm). The girls looked adorable in their matching dresses, and both felt very special wearing them!

Enjoying a homemade tourtiere for dinner.

This is the face Isabel makes when we tell Isabel to smile for the camera.

Hanging up stockings.

Sophia left a gingerbread man cookie and milk out for Santa.

Swimming at CG Brown Pool

2011-12-24T14:34:00.002-06:00

We went swimming this morning, and both Sophia and Isabel loved it.

Sophia did a pretty good job holding onto the mat and kicking by herself.

Canucks' Game

2011-12-23T22:29:00.001-06:00

Allison, Nils and Casey went to the Canucks game. Despite their weak performance (they lost 3-1 to Calgary), it was still fun!

Maplewood Farm

2011-12-23T14:38:00.001-06:00

We went to Maplewood Farm where both kids loved seeing all the animals up close.

Isabel pointed out all the wandering ducks.

Feeding the bunnies. Sophia remembered what to do, and Isabel even figured it out by herself.

Feeding the ducks -- they were very hungry which is always fun.

Petting the goats. Isabel likes to go around and pat each one.

Bright Lights in Stanley Park

2011-12-22T21:09:00.003-06:00

We went to the Stanley Park Bright Lights display, and rode the miniature train.

And looked at lights.

Sophia has taken her photo in here every Christmas!

Views from the train.

An Inukshuk with a Santa hat.

Stilt-walker doing a Polar-Express-themed performance.

Cookies, crafts, and scoop ball

2011-12-21T21:15:00.003-06:00

Sophia started the morning off by making star decorations for everyone for Christmas.

Then, while Sophia and Grandma went to the library, and Isabel and Grandpa dealt with the phone technician, Nils and Allison had a rare morning off. We wandered around Robson St, and had all you can eat sushi.

Isabel did some painting with Grandpa.

This afternoon we played outside while it was sunny.

And decorated Christmas cookies.

Playing in the snow at Mt. Seymour

2011-12-20T20:59:00.003-06:00

We went to Mt. Seymour to play in the snow and do some sledding. It was very foggy when we arrived, but clear when we left.

After lunch in the chalet, the fog had lifted, and it was a beautiful day!

Isabel had fun cuddling with Nils.

Photo with Santa

2011-12-19T21:41:00.002-06:00

We took the girls to get their photo taken with Santa. Fortunately they had a rocking horse, which we tricked Isabel into sitting on, and had convinced Sophia to stand beside him. And got a decent photo!

Ice Skating

2011-12-19T21:30:00.003-06:00

We took Sophia ice skating, and she loved it. They had the bars to hold onto, which made it a bit easier for everyone.

Checking out the penalty box. Sophia was eager to get back on the ice.

Dinner at Zoey's

2011-12-18T21:28:00.000-06:00

We went for an early Christmas dinner at Zoey's (since they leave for their vacation). Here is Nils with Carl, Gladys, Zoey, Wayne, and cousins (and girlfriends).

Feeding the ducks

2011-12-18T15:04:00.003-06:00

We went to feed the ducks. There were a LOT of them, and they were very hungry, so the kids liked that!

Isabel plays a new game, where she "hits" her head and says boom.

More tree decorating

2011-12-18T15:00:00.001-06:00

The kids were up nice and early (5am for Sophia, and 6am for Isabel), so we had plenty of time for a morning walk.

Then we did the rest of the tree decorating. Even Isabel did some.

Decorating the Christmas tree

2011-12-17T14:53:00.002-06:00

After some play time at Grandma and Grandpa's, the kids both had long naps. Isabel didn't want to wake up, and was a bit stunned and cuddly when we woke her up before dinner.

Sophia did some tree decorating. She did a pretty good job of spacing the decorations.

We went for a walk to look at Christmas lights before bath-time. Sophia is wearing her new toque.

Plane ride to Vancouver

2011-12-17T13:46:00.000-06:00

We had a 9:30am flight to Vancouver. The airport actually wasn't too busy, so we had some time to spare before boarding -- the girls like watching the planes and activity outside the windows.

It also wasn't a very full flight, so we had 2 rows to ourselves -- Nils and Sophia sat together, and Allison and Isabel sat behind them. Both kids did really well. Sophia liked playing with all the things she had packed in her backpack, and doing some crafts. Isabel read a bit, played with some markers, and was entertained by a 9 year old girl sitting near us for most of the flight.

We arrived on time, about 12:30pm Vancouver-time, and had a nice view of the mountains coming in. This was our first trip using all Canadian passports, and so didn't have to wait in a customs line, since we could use the automated machine at the Vancouver airport.

Playing with dolls and ribbon

2011-12-14T19:18:00.003-06:00

Isabel spent a long time this morning playing with the dolls. Strangely, she thinks she has to be in the doll bed to play with them.

Sophia has been getting very good at tying knots with ribbon. It's all she wants to do.

Sophia opened some presents (new books!) from Nils' work last night.

Isabel's 15 month doctor's appointment

2011-12-13T19:38:00.003-06:00

We had Isabel's 15 month doctor's visit today. She weighs 20 lbs 14 oz (20%) and is 30" tall (35%). She had fun playing in the waiting room while we waited.

She didn't have as much fun in the examining room.

Christmas at the Hollrah's

2011-12-11T20:13:00.002-06:00

We went to Britta and Kendall's house for an early Christmas gathering, since we'll be in Vancouver soon. Sophia did some playing at Annette's desk, checking out all her art supplies.

We ate some yummy food.

And opened presents.

Sophia remembered how to open presents, and opened all of ours for us.

In her dress up clothes.

Aquarium

2011-12-11T20:06:00.003-06:00

We went to the Houston Aquarium this morning. The aquarium itself isn't huge, but had some nice exhibits.

Most of the facility is actually more amusement park-like. We rode the miniature train,

which takes you through a shark tank.

And took a ride on the carousel.

Playing at home -- Isabel likes to peek through the dollhouse door. She even tries to fit through (she can't).

Playing

2011-12-10T19:25:00.002-06:00

When told to play outside for awhile, Sophia took her craft things and sat in the deck chair for half an hour, decorating rocks, and tying ribbon.

Isabel wanted to wear Sophia's hat. She put it on herself.

Crafts and a walk

2011-12-08T19:58:00.003-06:00

Sophia was in the Christmas mood today -- wearing her Christmas tree shirt, and making Santa and Mrs. Claus hanging ornaments (from a kit).

Sophia was wearing her sunglasses to protect her eyes from the "cold wind" (her idea).

Fun with bubble wrap

2011-12-06T20:16:00.002-06:00

The girls played with some bubble wrap from a package today -- it was just Isabel's speed.

Winter hats

2011-12-05T20:07:00.001-06:00

It was cool today, so the kids wore their old winter hats on our walk. Well, Sophia wore her old hat, and Isabel wore a hand me down. But she still looked pretty cute!

Sophia puts hers on all by herself.

Photographs in the playground

2011-12-03T19:28:00.005-06:00

A few weeks ago, we had a professional photographer take some photos of us in the playground. We were able to get some nice family photos, and then some candid ones of the kids playing.

Zoo

2011-12-02T19:18:00.002-06:00

We met one of Sophia's preschool friends at the zoo today, and had fun. Despite not smiling in the photo, Sophia was the one who wanted to put her head in and take a picture.

Watching the meerkats.

We've done some decorating for Christmas, and made a foamy nativity set kit. Sophia actually did most of the work (including putting the leaves on the trees, faces on the figures, and all the straw in the manger.

Bedtime stories

2011-12-01T19:51:00.002-06:00

Nils was late getting home tonight, so Sophia helped Allison get Isabel ready for bed. Sophia washed Isabel in the bath all by herself, and helped get her into her pj's and brush her hair. She also wanted to read her bedtime stories.
Sophia has gotten much better about reading a book aloud. Here she is reading "Brown Bear, Brown Bear" and I think she gets a bit confused because she didn't know which animal was next.

Gardeners

2011-11-29T20:04:00.003-06:00

Sophia really wants to garden now. I wish we had a bigger garden, since she is slowly filling up every pot (and item) we have with dirt. She then plants small clippings that she takes from our herb plants.
Sophia even showed Isabel what to do.
Isabel got a bit dirtier.

Isabel at the Little Gym

2011-11-28T19:58:00.000-06:00

On Mondays, after dropping Sophia off at preschool, Allison and Isabel run errands until Isabel's Little Gym class. Today, we went grocery shopping.
Isabel likes her Little Gym class -- at the beginning, she is very excited to get her shaker.
This is her favourite area -- she can hold onto the railings and then climb into the ring.
They have lots to climb and crawl on.
They have a small climbing wall, and Isabel can make it up with barely any help at all.
She also does a lot of this (playing with the screws and knobs).
Bubbles!

Austin Zoo and lunch on the way home

2011-11-27T20:58:00.000-06:00

We visited the Zoo on a cold morning, before driving back home.
Unfortunately, this is what the girls did best there -- so we quickly finished up, and got in the car, where Isabel promptly fell asleep and Sophia had some quiet time too.
Everyone was awake for lunch though, and we found a decent restaurant on our way home.
Not quite sure what she had to say.

Our hotel room

2011-11-27T20:17:00.000-06:00

The hotel worked out for us, and it was a comfortable stay. Sophia really liked it the experience. Here we are enjoying story-time.
Relaxing.
Having some massive stuffed pizza for lunch.
The hotel had a small kitchen, which was very handy.
Isabel got to try out her new booster seat (and not a high chair). She liked it, except she kept trying to stand up in it (like she does her high chair), and got frustrated when she couldn't.
The highlight for Sophia were the phones in the rooms. We only have our cell phones (and no land line phone), so this was a big novelty for her. She kept "hearing it ring" or "had to make a phone call." Often it was Boots or Swiper (her friends from the Dora books) and she had to tell them she was busy eating (or sleeping, or reading etc), and they'd have to phone back.

Hotel swimming pool

2011-11-27T19:09:00.000-06:00

The hotel had a nice outdoor deck and pool. We'd have our snack by the pool most days. Sophia loved the pool and kept asking to go back.
The pool itself was actually too cold, but the hot tub was like bath water, so that's where Sophia did her "swimming."
The swimming mainly consisted of sitting on the steps.
Isabel liked dipping her toes in the water.
It didn't take too long for Isabel to want to get in also. We didn't come prepared with her bathing suit though.
On our last trip, we came fully prepared with everyone's bathing suit. Unfortunately, it was much cooler, and so while it was nice in the water, it was cold getting out!

Zilker Zephyr miniature train ride

2011-11-26T20:53:00.000-06:00

We went back to Zliker Park in the afternoon to ride the Zilker Zephyr, a miniature train. After the rain in the morning, it had turned cold, so the girls bundled up under blankets for the 30 minute trip.
A view of downtown Austin.

Austin Nature & Science Center (and the Dino Pit)

2011-11-26T20:20:00.001-06:00

Saturday morning we headed to the Austin Nature & Science Center, where we first looked at some exhibits indoors, waiting for the rain to lighten up.

We finally figured it wouldn't stop raining, so we might as well venture out.
The highlight at the science center is the Dino Pit. Apparently, dinosaur fossils were discovered at some point, and so now they have these large sand pits (with huge plastic fossils embedded in them). The kids can "dig" them up.
Sophia was very excited to get started.
I think she liked the water and mud more than anything.
We weren't too keen to let Isabel lose in the wet sand. She kept herself contained for a little bit.

But not too long.

We warmed up with lunch at a diner.
Sophia's feet were a bit wet, so she ate with one sock on, and one sock off.

Central Market playground

2011-11-25T20:14:00.002-06:00

In the afternoon, we went to the original Central Market, and played in their huge playground. Instead of eating in the outdoor cafe, we just bought some food to eat back at the hotel (since Sophia liked eating at the hotel).
Sophia was full of energy.
Isabel liked putting debris through the holes.
And interacting with other kids.

State Capitol Interpretive Center

2011-11-25T19:47:00.000-06:00

We then went to the Interpretive Center, which the kids enjoyed a bit more. Here is Isabel dressing up like a cowboy.
Just like at home, Isabel tried to open every door.
They had an area where you could emboss paper with a seal (pretending you were buying some land and it was your deed) -- Sophia loved it.

State Capitol Building

2011-11-25T19:38:00.000-06:00

We toured the State Capitol. Since the kids were up at 5:30am, we had plenty of time to walk around outside before it opened.
The domed roof (from the inside).
Exploring inside, waiting for the guided tour to begin.
Sophia was being goofy, and running around the circled second level.
Looking down at Nils and Isabel.
The Senate. Although we took the guided tour, we can't tell you much about the building, since the tour was all about Texas history (and not too interesting).
The House of Representatives.
The kids were more interested in climbing on the chairs and looking out the windows, so we bailed on our tour group.

Downtown Austin

2011-11-25T18:53:00.000-06:00

This was as close as we got to the music scene in Austin.
The Texas Longhorns' stadium (college football) - it was huge!

A trip to Austin

2011-11-24T19:34:00.002-06:00

We left early Thursday morning for the 3 hour drive to Austin. The kids did really well on the drive.
Everyone was eager to get out of the car, enjoy the sunshine, and have a picnic lunch on the river that runs through downtown Austin.
Checking out the hotel room -- both girls loved the big windows.
We had dinner at Cannoli Joe's, an upscale buffet that was quite yummy.

Via Colori street painting festival

2011-11-20T19:11:00.003-06:00

We went downtown to the Via Colori street painting festival, which was a bunch of artists doing chalk drawings on the street.
Sophia got to make a turkey hat.
Sophia helped Isabel walk a little bit. She looks like an old lady crossing the street, with her cane.
The festival was free, but you could make donations by putting money into a bucket by pictures that you liked. Your donation was a vote which would help chose winners in different categories. Sophia liked this, and continued to pretend at home that someone was putting money in her bucket as she drew pictures outside.

Pottery Class

2011-11-19T19:49:00.002-06:00

Allison and Sophia went to a pottery class this morning to make Christmas ornaments. She made a wreath and star out of clay (added imprints, and cut outs, and painted them), and we'll pick them up after they're fired in the kiln. We also painted 3 other ornaments that had already been fired.

Japanese Gardens at Hermann Park

2011-11-18T19:25:00.003-06:00

We fed the ducks again in Hermann Park, and wandered into the Japanese Gardens afterwards. It was a nice day to be outside, and the girls loved the park benches and bridges.
They had fun playing on this big bench, crawling from one side to the other.

If you listen closely, you'll hear Isabel make a "woof" sound, for a doggy.

Playground

2011-11-17T21:04:00.001-06:00

We went to the playground with all the ride on toys around. Isabel loved the cozy coupe car, and had a hard time getting out. She didn't want to do anything else but sit in it. Sophia was very good about pushing her.
They have a bunch of random toys, including a kitchen, table and chairs.
Smiles while swinging.

Big & Little Sisters

2011-11-15T20:08:00.003-06:00

Isabel tries very hard to be like her big sister. She can now climb up on the desk chairs, and so spends a lot of time there. (Isabel likes to dress up in the doll Penny's sweater.)
Mmm, this water pen tastes nice.
Maybe my feet could use some of the water.
I guess I can actually use the water pen on the picture.
Sophia gave Isabel her music player to wear around her neck, which she did while pushing the doll stroller. Reminds me of Sophia a couple of years ago!

Sophia's own CD Player

2011-11-13T19:18:00.003-06:00

We bought Sophia her own cd player, so that she can choose her own music when she wants. In the past, we've just used iTunes on Allison's computer. She likes the control of putting her own cd in. She hasn't quite mastered the fact that each cd has a bunch of songs on it. So we've heard the first and second song of her cds many times now.

This album was personalized for her, and so all the songs say Sophia in them. She is surprised by that.

This song is called "Stand Up," and Sophia is pointing out that Nils is sitting down, and that he should be standing up.

Feeding the ducks

2011-11-11T14:01:00.006-06:00

We went to feed the ducks in Hermann Park today. It was a nice day to be outside.
Isabel thought she had to get right up to the water to throw her food in.
And we saw a strange animal. We thought it was a beaver at first, but now aren't so sure. He came right out of the water towards us. He must be used to having humans around. **edited to add: Turns out it is a Nutria (or Coypu), basically a South American rodent, which resembles a very large rat, or beaver with small, round tail.
After feeding the ducks, we took a train ride. Sophia is telling Isabel to keep her arms and legs inside the train.

Matching sweaters

2011-11-10T19:49:00.001-06:00

Wearing their matching sweaters for a walk.

In the Backyard

2011-11-09T19:18:00.003-06:00

Having fun in the backyard this morning, before library story-time.
Isabel tried to escape by the side gate, and then found this unused stoop.
Allison came back from doing laundry in the garage, to find Sophia and Isabel sitting on the chairs together. Too cute!

Isabel at home

2011-11-08T19:29:00.002-06:00

Isabel liked putting the grocery bags away after grocery shopping today.
Not quite sure why, but Isabel took this book and wanted to mail it.

Playdoh together

2011-11-07T19:18:00.002-06:00

Sophia had preschool this morning, and Isabel had Little Gym class, which was fun. This afternoon, we introduced Isabel to playdoh. She only tried to eat it about 5 times. Mainly she liked playing with the cups and the lids, but it was nice to have everyone spend 30 minutes doing the same thing.

Quilts at the Quilt Festival

2011-11-05T19:36:00.004-05:00

Allison and Diane visited the Quilt Festival today, and saw many wonderful quilts.

A "stained glass" quilt.
This quilt had tiny dresses on it.
A Vancouver cityscape.
Redwork.
Doll bed quilts.

Playground

2011-11-05T19:33:00.001-05:00

While Nils worked this morning, Allison and the girls walked over to the nearby playground.

Sewing class at the quilt show

2011-11-04T19:27:00.002-05:00

There is a large quilt show in Houston this weekend, so Allison took the morning off to attend a class. She sewed a log cabin pillow.
Not bad, eh?

Around home

2011-11-04T19:20:00.004-05:00

Isabel was happy to see a new rocking horse toy that had been delivered the night before. The goofy face is her "smile," which she now does for the camera.
More "smiles" during our tea party. Isabel knows what to do now, and tries to pour the tea, and stir with the spoon.
We went to play at a friend's apartment yesterday. The girl goes to school with Sophia, and she's got a new baby sister. Isabel liked sitting in the baby swing -- she sat and played in it for quite awhile! Guess she remembers her baby swing fondly.

After watching Sophia push the doll stroller on our walk outside, Isabel pushed it all around the house.

Haircut for Sophia

2011-11-04T19:17:00.002-05:00

Sophia got her hair cut on Thursday, which she needed.
Pretty cute!

Bellaire Playground

2011-11-02T19:29:00.002-05:00

We went to a new (to us) playground in Bellaire, before library story-time. The girls like climbing.
Isabel is a big climber. She is wondering how to get up the rock wall.
Break time. Sophia was cute, because she saw a woman doing push ups in the park, and then she had to try them. She got pretty good! She said she was doing her exercising.

Discovery Green with Isabel

2011-11-01T19:39:00.003-05:00

After dropping Sophia off at school, Allison and Isabel headed downtown to run some errands. We made a stop at the Discovery Green playground. Isabel made a beeline for the water fountains.
Having fun!
While out for a walk this afternoon, Sophia made sure to mail our community newspaper.
She has also been into taking care of Isabel. She pushed her stroller.
And gave her lots of water to drink.
What a cutie! Maybe both girls should have been cats for Halloween.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T19:58:00.005-05:00

Happy Halloween! Sophia dressed up as a cat, and Isabel wore her Chinese outfit.
We first went to our neigbours' block party, where we had some treats.And then we started trick-or-treating. Sophia was great -- she'd ring the doorbell, and say Happy Halloween and trick or treat. She kept saying, "let's try one more house." Isabel kept trying to give them back their candy, or put it back in their basket.
But by the end, Isabel knew what to do.

Photos and Yardwork

2011-10-30T19:07:00.003-05:00

We met Nils' family at nearby Rice University for some family photos. Everyone wore their Chinese outfits, and the girls all looked very fancy!
Out for a bike ride and walk after dinner.
Some cleanup outside before her bath.

Halloween at the Zoo

2011-10-29T19:16:00.003-05:00

We went to the Zoo for their Halloween festivities today.
Sophia is holding onto Isabel, to help keep her from falling out of the wagon.
Riding the merry-go-round. Isabel liked it so much that she cried when it was over. Poor thing!
Watching the meerkats, Sophia's favourite.

Brushing the goats.
Isabel went around petting each goat. She would give a nice pat to a goat, and then quickly move on to the next one she saw.
Ready to head home. It was nice enough outside, that we were able to walk to the zoo, which was a nice change!

Carving our pumpkin

2011-10-29T19:12:00.001-05:00

Nils and Sophia carved the pumpkin today. When Sophia drew the picture, she wanted to add legs, but we convinced her to make just a face.

Outdoor theatre and helping out at home

2011-10-28T20:11:00.002-05:00

We went to the Miller Outdoor Theatre (in nearby Hermann Park) for a kids performance of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. It was finally a cool day, so it was nice to be outside, even if the show itself wasn't the best for us.
Isabel liked exploring the seats before the show.
It was windy so actually got a bit chilly. Thankfully Reindeer had his blanket to keep him warm.
We checked out the ducks before heading home.
Sophia helped wash the dishes this afternoon. She did a great job!
And Isabel helped put the groceries away yesterday.
She puts the produce in the produce drawer. She wanted to keep helping and was sad when we had to close the fridge.

Dancing at library story-time

2011-10-26T20:09:00.003-05:00

We went to the library for story-time. Sophia was very daring and sat off by herself on the mat with the other kids. Isabel stayed back with Allison.

Though Isabel did venture away too -- she made it through a bunch of kids and all the way to the other side of the mat.

A video of Sophia dancing -- not sure where she gets her moves from.

Looking very cute in her new outfit while playing outside.

Locking and Dressing

2011-10-25T19:10:00.003-05:00

While Sophia was in school this morning, Allison got her flu shot, and Isabel got her second dose -- not much fun, but all went well. Back at home, Isabel played with the Critter Clinic for awhile. She loves using the key in the locks and opening and closing. It's one of the few toys she will sit and play with.
After playing outside this afternoon, Sophia got herself changed into this dress. She was very proud of herself, so Allison didn't bother to mention that it was on backwards.

Weekend

2011-10-23T19:19:00.002-05:00

Nils had to work this weekend, but was home this morning to do some colouring with Sophia.
Meanwhile, Isabel played in her favourite kitchen cupboard.
Sophia was helping Doggy have a nap. Looks like she's resting too!
Some fun in the pool this afternoon.
Sophia has gotten pretty good at doing real puzzles (and not just ones where you fit the wooden piece in the hole). Here she is working on a new one.
Sophia was cold the other day, and decided to put socks on her hands to warm up.

Library storytime

2011-10-19T19:14:00.001-05:00

We went to library story-time today. Sophia enjoyed the "monsters" theme, and Isabel wandered around.
They also had a mask craft, and Sophia wore hers all afternoon.

Playing together

2011-10-18T19:21:00.003-05:00

Sophia played really well with Isabel this afternoon, for quite a long time. They didn't even want Allison around. Here is Sophia chatting away with Isabel and playing with the doll house.
It was cute because Sophia was bouncing up and down on the ball, and Isabel started going up and down too.Sophia took Mommy's chair and magazine and read for awhile outside.
Isabel had an appointment with the ophthalmologist today and had her eyes dilated, so she was a bit under the weather. She doesn't usually just lay down and relax outside. Unfortunately the doctor's visit (for possibly drifting eyes) was inconclusive and we have to go back in about 3 months. Isabel isn't the most cooperative patient!
Putting the ball to sleep.
Sophia had on Nils' shoes the other day, and was giving a "talk at work."
We worked on Benjamin Bunny's scrapbook this weekend so Sophia could bring it back to school on Monday to share with her classmates.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-15T14:42:00.003-05:00

We went to Dewberry Farm's pumpkin patch (about an hour away).
Not quite sure what they were looking at.
On the tractor ride out to the pumpkin field.
Pumpkins!
Isabel wore her outfit that Allison sewed. Pretty cute, eh?
We stopped at Ikea for lunch on the way home. Isabel started doing this where she scrunches up her face and closes her eyes. It looks silly but is pretty funny.

Day at home with Grandma

2011-10-14T18:56:00.001-05:00

Reading stories with Grandma. Sophia was helping Isabel drink her water too.
Taking Benjamin Bunny for a bike ride.

Isabel's new climbing spot.

Art class and outside

2011-10-13T19:18:00.002-05:00

Sophia took Benjamin Bunny to art class.
Having some fun outside.

Children's Museum

2011-10-12T18:37:00.003-05:00

We went to the Children's Museum today. Our first stop was the grocery store, where Sophia loves the check-out.
Even Isabel did some shopping.
Taking a break at the restaurant.
Sophia is taking our food order.
Allison and Isabel spent some time in the tot spot. Isabel liked this toy, which had windows to open and dollhouse scenes inside.
Working away.
A sneak peek at what Allison and Audrey are sewing for Isabel (it's not finished yet). Happy to be showing Benjamin Bunny her work desk.