A Little of Jane and Lucas

Growing up ...

2012-01-07T22:23:00.000-05:00

It's officially Autumn

2011-10-28T22:35:00.002-04:00

I feel so fortunate for my family...

Did you know...

2011-06-16T18:42:00.004-04:00

Did you know I take a photo a day of my babies? Yep. That's 4.5 years for Jane and 1.5 years for Luke. That's a lot of clicking. I use all sorts of cameras too, from the Holga to my Nikon. It's a wonderful archive of looking back on their lives.

Recents...

2011-02-02T15:20:00.005-05:00

I realized I am not the best at consistencies - especially with updating this site. I apologize... We've had lots of snow, lots and lots and lots of snow; but it's fun. (At least that's what we pretend anyway...)
Here are quite a few recent pics to update you:

Ride 'em Cowboy!

2010-12-13T15:56:00.005-05:00

Lucas turned ONE last week. Yes. ONE! We are in awe of his sweet character and his silly ways. He has started to "walk" with assistance of a chair being slid across the room, or his little vintage walker we bought for Jane and kept. We are so blessed to have 2 amazing kids, every day I think of this.

For his birthday we went ahead with a Cowboy theme. Not totally gangbusters, like everything being bandanna pattern and country music galore. Not at all. It was an easy going theme, perfect for our wee little one....

Yes, there is a theme this year...

2010-12-01T13:40:00.004-05:00

... and Snow White is it.

For Jane's 4th birthday we hired the REAL Snow White. It was pretty neat because she sounded, acted, danced and played JUST like you think she would. I know she's an impersonator, but this is as close as you can get to the real-deal, and she was wonderful...

Here's how Jane's day unfolded:

7:00 a.m. Jane woke up to a room FULL of pink and white balloons to celebrate her 4th year.
8:00 a.m. A breakfast for champions including her candlelit toast.
10:00 a.m. A little bed jumping and family wide dance party.
11:00 a.m. I arranged for a private 1 on 1 play-date with Snow White at our home. And, as expected Jane was in her total glory. (See movie.)
11:30 a.m. A playground extravaganza with 11 of her best girlfriends (No boys allowed she said!) and the magical Princess of Whiteness.
12:00 p.m. Snow White took over and transformed the girls into princesses with sparkly make-up, lip gloss, magical wands and of course, song and a birthday cake. (Provided of course.)
1:00 p.m. A fashion show on a doily red carpet with a private escort from Snow White herself.
1:15 p.m. A rumpus of bike riding, cake eating and playground swinging.
2:00 p.m. Goodbye dear friends!
3:00 p.m. A nice long relaxing 2 hour nap.

Ahhhh. The life of a 4 year old.

Halloween happiness....

2010-11-02T21:40:00.004-04:00

Even though it took us much longer than we anticipated to get out of the house all dolled up - we had a blast touring the neighborhood, ooohing and awwwing at all the passer-byes and even passing out candy of our own on the front stoop. We ended up freezing a handful of our candy, and gave most of it (back) away to the many door knockers....

Apples to good use...

2010-10-13T09:52:00.003-04:00

I found a fantastic way to use up some of the 3 million apples we picked - homemade and healthy, fruit roll-ups... AKA fruit leather. I like the 'roll-up' name better, calling something 'leather' that you put into your body just doesn't seem right to me.
Anyway, if you want to see how, and do it yourself, it's super easy-cheesy - I did a step by step HOW-TO here: http://bit.ly/auanMB

Our little dumplings...

2010-10-01T21:41:00.006-04:00

We, like many people in New England went apple picking in this beautiful early Autumn air and had a total blast. We now have an uber amount of apples and have tried almost every apple inspired recipe; yet still have a ton left over. Anyone have a new idea for us to try? I was going to freeze some, or give some away. Need any?

I've been invited!

2010-09-19T20:23:00.005-04:00

I've been humbly invited to show off some of my photography at a fantastic shop called Zume. The opening is October 16, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. - I would love if you could come by and say hello and see some of my work. It's from some of the most amazing days of someone very special over the past (almost) 4 years... ;)

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Jane quotes...

2010-08-16T10:51:00.004-04:00

"Did you know the potty is like a swimming pool for my poo-poo, my pee-pee, and bugs?" Friday, August 13, 2010

"MAMA! MAMA! I got a Kitty Cone. Cats like ice cream too!?" Tuesday, June 22, 2010

"Your forehead is a parking lot for your eyebrows." Early this summer sometime.

Chocolate Bunny

2010-07-02T20:57:00.001-04:00

Snow white wonder...

2010-06-06T20:46:00.004-04:00

Jane and I took a girls-only day on the train to see Snow White at the Wilbur Theater in our neighboring city of Boston. After meeting a very good friend of mine with her 3 children, we stopped off at the Public Garden, rode the carousel, and fed the park's very-well-fed squirrels, we headed off to see the play. Jane's eyes were aglow as she watched the interpretation about 5 feet from the stage, she even told Snow White "Noooooo don't do it!" when the evil queen tried to offer the dreaded poisonous apple.

After the performance, we asked the man-in-black (the introducing front-man) if Snow White was to make a debut - his answer was kindly "No, I'm sorry" Jane's eyes filled with tears of disappointment as she buried her head into my shoulder. The man-in-black saw her sadness and signaled "Wait" and ran to the back of the stage. About 5 minutes of an overly excited waiting, Snow White came out and hugged Jane tight and thanked her for coming. She also signed a Snow White book I brought and giggled when handing it back in that high pitched Snow White voice. On our way home Jane pleaded; "Can Snow White come over and play? Pleaseeee? She can even bring her "Kisser Man" (the prince) because I know they love each other."

Photography contest

2010-05-08T14:48:00.006-04:00

I entered my first ever photography contest. I would be wonderfully happy if you went there and voted for me, it's at the bottom of the page here: www.artistswanted.org/nanvan They say you can vote 1X per day, so if you'd like to frequent the site, and vote a lot :: even better...! *oxoo*

Growing at leaps and bounds...

2010-04-09T13:02:00.005-04:00

Our lil' baby Lucas is now officially a 4 month old - today! Happy day our lovely boy.

Hello spring!

2010-03-10T10:33:00.006-05:00

Finally, it seems our loooong winter days are rearing to an end. Last weekend we enjoyed an early morning hike on a balmy 50 degree day. We found a swing in the middle of the woods, a lizard under a rock, and a fab walking stick for my city-slicker husband.

2010-02-16T18:49:00.004-05:00

I meant to post this for everyone to see... but opted to email it personally. So it's a wee bit late, but the feeling is still there. Love!

Stripe-y-Sunshine-y

2010-01-21T19:21:00.002-05:00

The large main windows in our apartment allows us to watch the sun rise and set easily - as a result, we have magnificent warmth for our family (and plants!), wonderful napping spots for our cat Daisy and, since installing our new wooden plantation blinds we can manage the sun beams through-out...

Welcome little brother!

2010-01-14T16:03:00.003-05:00

Jane has become a beautiful and wonderful big sister as of December 9, 2009. She is as expected; the biggest helper, the sweetest and most kind sibling a boy could ever ask for...

Officially the big "3"

2009-11-23T21:23:00.009-05:00

A few weeks back our little-one officially turned 3. We celebrated in true fair with 3 parties;

1. With her entire (local) family at home
2. At her school with her classmates and a handmade birthday crown and everything
3. With 10 of her best buddies at her gymnastics studio - included was a customized obstacle course and a true gymnastics lesson for everyone!

After her 3rd party - Marc and I took her to play miniature golf with the big-orange-dinosaur mentioned in an earlier post. When we got out of the car as the mid-afternoon sun was quickly resting she said "I got bigger!" As she glanced down at her beautiful loooong shadow...

Hip hip hooray!

Autumn is here!

2009-11-08T20:49:00.006-05:00

The leaves are bright and beautiful and can offer hours of free fun for us, especially when you least expect it. The side entrance to our home offers a spot full of possibilities. The wind blows what seems like alllll the leaves from our neighborhood in one small corner, and sometimes it makes us a few minutes late....

Trick or treaty...

2009-10-31T23:20:00.011-04:00

At 3:00 Jane was a cowgirl for a party with Marc and I in tow to compliment her like accessories; then at 6:00 we transformed her into the beloved Shirley Temple in "Rebecca at Sunny Brooke Farm". While trick-or-treating, people even 'knew' who she was without explaining; You should have seen the little hearts that appeared in her eyes when someone would say to her "Are you Shirley Temple?" (Ah, and yes... that's me 8 months pregnant...) : )

All for just a quarter...

2009-10-12T08:15:00.005-04:00

Jane has adjusted well to her new Nursery School, her big-girl bed and even talks about her responsibilities of being a big sister. Whew, what's next? Oh, that's right - she'll be 3 soon! Ahhhhh, where did our little baby Jane go to? Time does go by quickly, we surely try to cherish every moment.

Here she is riding along the old horsey outside of our local Market Basket, she can ride and wave; a new accomplishment too - Make sure to watch the movie to the very end, a visitor stops by....

The 1st day of the next 19 years... (Or so)

2009-09-01T16:22:00.007-04:00

Today was the 1st day of Nursery School for lil' Jane, she is 2.9 years old, the prefect age for her grand entrance they say. She was excited from the moment she woke up and had her back pack all suited up and ready to go. We're sending her to a small school in a beautiful town next to ours; Winthrop by the Sea. About a 10 minute drive along the ocean and through the small town. She had a pretty fab 1st day of school, winning an award for "Having a great 1st day" from her teachers Miss Alice and Miss Lois. Afterward, we celebrated with her requested "pink" slush (watermelon) and a walk around the neighborhood...

The big orange dinosaur ...

2009-08-17T10:57:00.003-04:00

We drive by the big orange dinosaur a lot on our daily travels - and I always promise "We'll visit once the weather gets nice" and, sure enough, the days have turned more friendly for our stop and, we did. It was during the week so Jane and I pretty much had the entire golf course to ourselves. The orange dinosaur is one of many animals who live at the miniature golf course who decided to amaze her - others are "Happy Jumpy" (As Jane refers to Humpty Dumpty), Lions, Hippos and more! She loved it. The woman didn't even charge us - Jane charmed her and granted us access...

BIG NEWS!

2009-07-21T09:45:00.009-04:00

Setting: Sometime in early December 2009.
Doctor; "It's a.......... BOY!"
Us; "Yipeee! Yahoo! Jane you're going to be a BIG SISTER!"
Jane; "Whoaaa, all this playing was for practice? You tricked me!"

Setting: Sometime shortly after.
Jane; "Alright, I love you baby brother, even though I wanted you to be a girl."

Setting:Really soon after that:
Jane; "Wait a minute... you do know who's boss around here don't you? Don't forget who was the 1st baby in town was or there will be deeeeep trouble mister."

Yipeeeee!

2009-07-14T00:06:00.017-04:00

Last week it rained for the one millionth time in a month's period, we weren't the only ones who were sick of it, but Jane decided to voice her (strong) opinion of it all. She stood in front of our large south facing windows and explained several times "No rain! It's not your turn anymore, go away and come back another day!" Well, I guess beautiful ol' Mother Nature listened because the next several days were sunny, bright and wonderful.

We celebrated with a little chalk, hopscotch and an illustration. (I only helped with the 'dancing' shoes as she requested, she did the rest by herself.)

Beautiful Brooklyn

2009-06-17T22:02:00.007-04:00

We went to Brooklyn for a trip and after preparing Jane weeks in advance for our 'vacation' she adjusted just fine and had an absolute blast. It's a total different world, but we loved it for sure. Besides, where in Boston can you slide along a 22 foot long piano?

Red velvet...

2009-05-07T23:31:00.009-04:00

(It's a MOVIE not just a photo...! Make sure to go to watch it directly from her site...www.janerust.blogspot.com)

We go to this wonderful story hour on Thursday, we've made lots of new friends and look forward to "Ms. Janet" reading every week. Lucky for me there is a small coffee shop close by that serves up a fab vanilla latte and better yet, homemade red velvet cupcakes for Jane.

Jane is into...

2009-05-06T19:10:00.003-04:00

We bought a new bed - ahhhh. In between the mattress was this HUGE piece of cardboard. So, of course I asked them for it. Jane loves to color real big.

Jane is officially official. Hip Hip Hooray!

We have some fantastic friends, we're so darn lucky...

Lots of little things...

2009-05-06T18:54:00.016-04:00

Boston rocks for picnics, you can find all these secret spots and run havoc with strollers on the grass.

Jane takes a weekly gymnastics class with several of her other 2.5 year old friends. She has a hoot balancing, doing somersaults and even hanging (and swinging!) from the uneven bars. Here she is sporting her latest 'outfit' before class.

Spring in New England is like no other. One day it's sun shining hot, then the next fah-reezing, then rain rain rain! It's ok. It fits her well because jumping in puddles in a sun dress couldn't be more satisfying.

Easter request...

2009-04-16T14:13:00.009-04:00

One of Jane's daily requests were granted this past Sunday; candy in the morning! Seeing that the Easter Bunny came hopping through our home the night before, he left a few things behind for her pleasure...

Zoo to go...

2009-04-15T19:36:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was pretty much one of the 1st nicest days of our short-lived Spring here in New England. It was nearly 55 degrees. Ahhh. We woke up early and ventured over to the "Franklin Park Zoo" - we were welcomed by an over zealous ostrich, a heard of calming zebra's and soon ventured over to the primates. The Lion, in true Lion form roared so loud it was almost make-believe. It lasted about 5 minutes straight, and after he was finished he plopped down on the ground in the bright bright sun and fell fast asleep. Jane below is asking me "Why would he do that, I want to hear him again!"

"Papa is supposed to..."

2009-04-03T00:31:00.005-04:00

It's a movie this time so you don't need my colorful explanation. However, I do apologize about the delay in posting this, clearly it's about a month (or so) old. Spring has sprung and the nice weather has just begun! (Whoops, I couldn't help but to write 'something' especially in rhyming format..) :)

Ride 'em Cowgirl!

2009-03-29T08:29:00.007-04:00

Ok, I'll admit it, we are a family of heads-on-the-bigger-side, it's ok. You get used to it, plus it's fun because we can all sport the same hats with ease. Here she is trying on my new fancy cowgirl hat from the beloved Target - Marc bought one too, although his is brown and without the chin strap. We wear them 'inside' like slippers or something, I don't really know why?!

(Don't forget to check out the lil' pics posted on the right side there via Flickr, there a ton more of proud parent moments.) ---> I'm also trying to get my act together to post a 'Flip Video' or two. Sooooon!

A few other things...

2009-03-03T21:31:00.006-05:00

Marc scored a sweet new desk from Ikea so we kept the box for some big-time coloring. She loved reaching "way up high"!!

It was super duper nice out the other day, like 45 degree's Fahrenheit. Although, still a bit chilly. We were so excited, and Jane could hardly wait to get back out onto the patio and jump around in excitement. After she came back in, I explained to her about the 'goosebumps' on her arms- she thought it was super duper funny.

"Animal's all around"

2009-03-03T21:20:00.003-05:00

Jane's big into sitting on the big black chair and having us pile "all the animal's around" - Here's the proof. After we do it to her, it's wonderfully our turn.

And, the animals listed in order counter-clockwise from top left:

1. Babo
2. Beaucoup baby
3. Mimi
4. Ah-Gee
5. The butt of Casa
6. Lucas
7. Pink bunny's bum
8. Soft new bear
9. George
10. Barbie
11. New Bear
12. The arm of 'little girl'
13. Marshmallow
14. Donkey

Snow walker...

2009-02-03T23:16:00.005-05:00

Click on the image for a much much better view...

Two Jane's...

2009-01-18T14:46:00.003-05:00

There is a mirror in our 'mud room' before you exit our home - we typically will check ourselves out in it before we go. I guess like anyone would if there was a mirror to be had.

The interesting part is, the other day when we were about to leave Jane said to me "TWO Jane's" and I said proudly; "That's right, there's one Jane here (as I pointed to her) and, one Jane in the mirror" (As I pointed to the image of her in the mirror) She then claimed; "THREE Jane's" I replied as a Ms. Smarty Pants would... "No honey, there's only 2 Jane's" (As I pointed to her and the mirror again) But, as I looked closer, she was pointing at the bevel in the mirror's edge, where there were clearly TWO Jane's showing in the mirror's reflection. So, she was right, there were 2, and then 3.... :)

'Brush-a-brush-a-brush-a..."

2009-01-05T09:21:00.001-05:00

She's officially a "big" girl.

New Day...

2009-01-04T21:01:00.003-05:00

This is the holiday card we sent out this year to a handful of friends and family. Feel free to click on the image for a larger view!

What's their electric bill? Ah, who cares...

2008-12-20T14:35:00.005-05:00

There is this neighborhood, not too far from us on the North side that totally over does it w/ Christmas decorations - it's super fun, super big and super expensive I imagine. Here is our little one getting psyched for the big day... Watch the movie to find out why...

All her Ni Ni buddies...

2008-12-19T15:37:00.006-05:00

Jane has 9 things she sleeps with every night and every nap - (with an occasional visitor) these are her permanent residents. Yesterday a little frog made it in, but she quickly took him out the next time she climbed aboard. She'll play with them and her many other toys from time to time outside of the crib, but for the most part they happily live inside their gated community awaiting her sweet arrival. Starting with the friend in her arms, counting counter-clock-wise is:

1. Pony
2. Mi mi
3. New Bear
4. Ball
5. Buddy
6. Ah-Gee
7. George
8. Ba Bo
9. Blankie

Thankful...

2008-11-26T10:23:00.003-05:00

... for you, and us, and Jane.

Artsy...

2008-11-18T20:43:00.004-05:00

Since having the wonderful opportunity of doing photography w/ my bro-in-law as my "2nd" job, I've grown a whole new perspective of taking photos of Jane. I've learned a bunch of techniques and 'rules' of the trade, and it's shown to be super fun. He makes it easy and enjoyable. It's something I've loved my whole entire life existence, so it seems natural to me. Although, I do have to admit she now will come in front of the camera when I'm not even taking a picture of 'her' since I'm always snapping away anyway .... (I was taking some photos of items we're putting into our wonderful (not really!) new storage place, and she peaked her head in for a few star appearances.)

A park...!

2008-11-08T09:09:00.003-05:00

Jane enjoys an afternoon stroll to the park with her very dear friend Emmett.

Big hair and all...

2008-11-07T16:37:00.002-05:00

... I can't quite decided what to do with her hair. I like it anyway it could possibly be.

Halloween Horror

2008-10-31T17:14:00.003-04:00

We have been going to the same library "class" once a week since Jane was old enough to sit-up on her own. She has made a ton of friends as a result, and she looks forward to it each week. Saying "Class!!" when we drive close.

Her session this week was a little different than usual. We dressed all the kids up in their Halloween costumes, had a pot luck lunch with entertainment and even a costume parade. She mostly just stared the 1st half hour to recognize her friends I think, but after that it was party party party!

An apple a day...

2008-10-14T21:51:00.007-04:00

Like many people who live in New England we spend a ton of time outdoors during the month of beautiful October... For a few reasons: 1. The fall foliage is like no other 2. The weather is soon to be not-so-nice 3. The apples!

To the zoo with mr. magoo...

2008-10-01T15:38:00.006-04:00

Marc took Jane to the local zoo on Sunday, rain or shine it was their destination. They made friends right from the start with this friendly lil' peacock that followed them for their journey the entire day. There was also a lion who roared so much that they are STILL talking about it. Next time it's my turn. (To go to the zoo, not to roar!) ;)

Lil' Monster...

2008-09-25T15:27:00.008-04:00

We are lucky. Jane has 2 cousins just a wee bit older than her that so kindly provide us with the coolest hand-me-downs a girl could ask for. Aside from the $ savings, I think it helps the world go 'round just a bit smoother. You know that whole thing; reduce, reuse, recycle. Just like pressing the "walk" button to cross the street. It really works.

Little helper...

2008-09-21T10:01:00.010-04:00

We have this pretty cool iRobot vacuum cleaner guy that runs around the apartment whenever I think about initiating it. Jane likes to help it "stop" and "go" too and will scream in delight as it runs amok. Today, I tried on these darling "2T" clothes that I thought wouldn't fit her (because they didn't last week) but, they sure did this time. She looked like such a big-girl that it brought tears to my eyes. It's weird how a pair of small jeans and a t.shirt can make my eyes leak.

Busy bee....

2008-09-16T12:54:00.005-04:00

She's been busy as a little bee, buzzing around with friends and cousins in the big city with me....

Walking in the rain...

2008-09-09T22:44:00.009-04:00

Today Jane and I finally got to test out her new green boots that she's been marching around the apartment in for the past few weeks. Before we walked down the stairs we peaked out the big windows in the hallway to see if there were any puddles in sight. She was so excited she could hardly contain herself saying "Rain! Rain!" I brought her a small umbrella we have because I knew once she saw mine, she'd want one of her own. It was just her size and did the trick. We marched around the neighborhood stomping in any and every single puddle we could find.

On our way home, we stopped by the corner store to buy Rice Krispies to make those tasty treats, but Jane had a different idea in mind... :)

A few more end of summer updates...

2008-09-03T11:57:00.002-04:00

A few end of summer updates...

2008-09-03T11:48:00.002-04:00

A friendly welcome...

2008-08-11T16:05:00.013-04:00

On our recent trip to France, one of our favorite things to do was to look for the big passing by boats along the Seine filled with tourists and wave to our hearts content. It's such a fantastic feeling to have people wave back, especially for Jane:...

Oh my.........

2008-07-27T17:18:00.003-04:00

Oh my...

2008-07-27T16:49:00.003-04:00

Summer cheat sheet Part i:

2008-07-18T17:42:00.009-04:00

Here's some of what we've been up to:

Summer cheat sheet Part ii...

2008-07-18T17:20:00.016-04:00

Here's a quick peak part two:

The racketeer of running...

2008-06-25T20:53:00.006-04:00

We found this fantastic park out in beautiful Brookline (of course) that had this wise old tree with low hanging branches protecting the park. It was wonderfully magical. In addition to the friendly people we met, adjacent was a turfed (yes, you read right) soccer field. Jane and I decided to take our shoes off and run wild....Here are 2 movies and 2 photos to show you how:

And then, if the day couldn't have gotten any better...

... it did...

...it really did.

Story telling master...

2008-06-17T09:57:00.006-04:00

Jane has been 'telling stories' for a while now, chatting away like she's a master. It's almost magical. We were in the beloved Market Basket a few weeks ago. She was talking to me as she sat in the shopping cart in front of me as an older woman walked past us in the other direction. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw her stop right near us, then she held her heart. Hoping she was ok, I turned quickly only to see her smiling with tears filling her eyes. She joyfully said to me "I'm sorry, I just had to stop and listen. I haven't heard this baby banter in 47 years. It has brought back such wonderful memories for me." As she softly clutched her chest I knew Jane had just made her day...

Summer heat...

2008-06-10T10:32:00.002-04:00

Living in New England is mostly magnificent; the ocean, the mountains, the 4 seasons, the history etc... but, man oh man, when it gets hot, it gets steaming. The past few days have been in the mid-to-late-so-so-so-hot-90's. All I can say, is thank goodness for central-air and a nice afternoon nap to take the edge off.

Nap time...

2008-05-29T20:41:00.005-04:00

Jane is an 'ok' napper, she takes 1 to 2 naps/day which usually last a 1/2 an hour to an entire hour, depending on lots of things I haven't been able to figure out yet. She has some other baby friends her age that take marathon naps (like 2 to 3 hours at a time!) which she's never even come close to. I don't mind of course, she's so easy going and fun to be with it's my pleasure that she's awake with me all the time.

Anyway, to get to the point of the photo... often times after a few moments of rustling once her nap is over, she calls my name, 'Mama!!' and greets me like this: (Seriously)

Oh, does life get any better?

Squirrel scammer...

2008-05-19T11:02:00.004-04:00

A dear friend let us borrow a VHS tape a couple of years ago, it was for our cats, Ace Freehley and Daisy Buchanon. The problem is that it got stuck inside the player, and we haven't really 'tried' to get it out. With DVD's and all now-a-days we don't ever need it. Plus, our friend is so nice, she doesn't seem to mind we've never returned it!! It's fine by us because the cats love it like crazy and, now Jane too... (I suppose it would be nice to buy a new movie and return it to our friend. I'll add it to my list of things to do...)

The best yet...

2008-05-09T20:50:00.008-04:00

Last week a dear dear dear friend came over to visit with her very sweet daughter in tow - the girls walked hand-in-hand to a local park where we colored with chalk, patted a dog named Charlie and picked flowers from the many blooming trees nearby.

On our way back, my amazing friend captured this shot of lil' Jane. I can't believe she nabbed such a moment. It might be my most favorite picture to date, I mean EVER. Thanks a TON Joanne you are amazingly talented and deserve success. If you would like to see some of her other work click HERE.

Neighborhood stroll...

2008-05-06T10:56:00.002-04:00

We go for looooong walks around our hilly neighborhood, it's a blast because we get to meet other families, pet some friendly animals, and even snoop around at some ants crossing the sidewalk from time to time. Plus it's good exercise. Jane takes it upon herself to peak into places to say "hi!" to neighbors in their yard. It's usually quite fun because people will stop what they're doing and say hello.

The world of Jane...

2008-05-06T10:44:00.004-04:00

When my brother and I were small, we had a Village, a School and a Farm House equipped with all the people, cows, school teachers, beds, chairs and cars needed to create our own little world. Marc and I love to watch her in action. I have some fantastic memories of it all and now Jane is doing the same. I was lucky, my folks have a basement where a lot of these treasures were stored and taken care of, until they needed to be played with again. Yeah for sentimental value on inanimate objects!

A few of her words...

2008-04-23T10:05:00.000-04:00

Jane has really taken off with her talking lately - she has an inventory of about 30 words I would say. Here she is speaking some of the ones I remembered off the top of my head as we sat in the car waiting for Papa....

shetalkstome from marcandnanda on Vimeo.

Our little helper...

2008-04-18T09:45:00.004-04:00

We're not starting her out early on chores, not really that is. She adores "helping" in her own way, so of course we hook her up with the proper tools and she has a blast with it...

unloadingthedishwasher from marcandnanda on Vimeo.

Baby bath time...

2008-04-11T11:48:00.004-04:00

A new little pleasure that Jane has is giving her baby a bath. She undresses her, washes her, and plays with the mini-rubber ducky with her. I have learned though that they get equally soaked when it's all over!

At first she liked it.

2008-04-04T17:08:00.009-04:00

She was all smiles at the begining, then...

...luckily she knew a few words to tell me how she really felt, watch the movie to find out how... :

Horsey from marcandnanda on Vimeo.

She was born with it...

2008-04-01T12:18:00.007-04:00

Jane has been given the wild-hair gene from both Marc and I - she was even born with a full head of hair, and, it's one of the things people have commented on when first seeing her; "Oh! What hair!" "My goodness, look at all that hair!" "Was she born with a lot of hair?" I think it's funny that people have to say "something"... Like, "Did you have heartburn when you were pregnant?" (Because they say lots of hair on a newborn explains why a Momma might have this feeling of heartburn. I didn't feel anything like this during Jane's 9.5 months while she stayed with me, so, it's just one of those urban myths I suppose.) Anyway, it's great of course, she sports barretts, pony-tails, and even has bad hair days already! She even has accepted my hairstyling techniques in the tub too...

Three little birds

2008-03-23T22:59:00.002-04:00

I know they say all babies like to dance, and I know they do, but a parent can't help but totally love the moves that their own-baby does... oh the glory!

Snow eater.

2008-03-08T14:44:00.004-05:00

We've all done it - Jane just happened to get caught while I had my handy little camera in hand....

It's potty time! (Not for those who might get offended)

2008-03-05T17:33:00.004-05:00

Some say a sixteen months is old for learning how to use the potty (Alright, alright - My 89 year old grandmother is the only one who said this; she also bragged at having her 5 boys (including my dear ol' Dad) all trained to use the potty by 1. "One?!" I said. "Really?" I couldn't believe my ears. She continued to tell me this was the "norm" in those days.) It sure was endearing to hear my father could use the potty perhaps before he even mastered walking, but this isn't the reason we gave it a try. We did it because she seems aware of when she's "going". That is, #2 specifically. She travels to the same spot in the room every time and does her business, in her diaper of course. So, it seemed to make sense...

So, we went to the evil Babies R' Us and purchased this cool potty called a "boon potty seat" - I had all these % off thingy's so, instead of dishing out a wopping $29.00, I paid only $12.00. Goodness, I kind of feel badly. Actually, not really. That store is a monopoly of craziness and perhaps it made me feel really really good.

Anyway, to make a super oober long story short - she's gone #1 now 3 times in her new fancy potty. Below is her 1st time. Don't look if you don't want to see it, but it's pretty darn cute. Even for pee pee.

ABC for you and me...

2008-02-19T10:12:00.005-05:00

Even though we have to pick up the pile of books on the floor from Jane's bookshelf about 10 times a day, it's worth it. She loves taking them out, and having access to all her "stories". Most of them came from a baby "book" party my ol' work associates and friends had for her over at Arnold before she was born. Such a great idea!

You'll see in one of the shots she is saying "Whooo Whooo" for the Owl sound...

A small find...

2008-02-12T22:36:00.005-05:00

It has been so SO cold outside lately it's nearly unbearable. But, we like it, or, I suppose we have learned to like it. We bundle up and bear the harsh New England weather because it actually feels pretty darn good breathing in that cold air. You know, that really deep breath where you can feel it all the way into your lungs? Ahhhh.
We're lucky, there are a few pretty decent parks around where we live - showcasing dogs, new friends and friendly shop owners. We decided to go to the one in the center of our small neighborhood. There are a ton of old trees and as a result, a whole lot of cool fallen leaves and seed pods that Jane just adores exaimaning, holding, and bringing home. I now have a bunch in a vase because it's her treasure, and now ours...

Who knew what was so funny!?

2008-01-11T11:54:00.000-05:00

Jane cracks up at things we didn't even think was funny until we see her laughing. Even when we're not *trying* to make her laugh, she giggles like crazy. I guess it's like when you present a new toy, sometimes the box it came in is equally interesting!

Lunch and munch

2008-01-04T18:57:00.000-05:00

I guess by accident, Marc and I have this lunch box collection. Well, maybe it's mostly me since 3 of them are mine, and we only have 4. Anyway, Jane has taken a liking to them and will carry them all around the apartment giggling at every step. Especially this one my brother bought me...

Splashy splash splash

2007-12-27T19:20:00.000-05:00

Life is so wonderful with her, we couldn't imagine what it was like before.

Winter Blueberry Delight

2007-12-26T18:52:00.000-05:00

Jane loves blueberries so I froze a bunch and will take them out for her when I remember they are in there. Felix snapped these shots on Christmas of her after enjoying a few... mmmmmmmmm, blueberries rule.

So much has happened...

2007-12-11T12:23:00.001-05:00

Our little-one now can walk like a pro, dance the jig, feed herself with a spoon AND say a few words like "uh oh" "yucky" and "all clean". Here she is showing off her latest love, coloring! We can't tell if she's a righty or a lefty yet, she uses both her hands pretty equally....

She walks!!!

2007-11-12T19:56:00.000-05:00

Some of Jane's friends around her age were walking at her birthday bash. The day after, Jane decided that it was time she did the same! She is now walking all over the place, with help, and without!

Bundle up!

2007-11-12T19:53:00.000-05:00

Well the cold is here! No time to wait for it either. All of a sudden, Boston got cold. Here is Jane enjoying the brisk air.

A bunny in the night

2007-11-01T10:08:00.001-04:00

First Halloween ever! She was a good sport and really enjoyed going from house to house in the neighborhood. We didn't know we had such nice people living around. Jane sure was a head-turner. Here she is happy on Momma's shoulder.

Oh, those were the days...

2007-10-29T13:52:00.000-04:00

This yellow number Jane is sporting was mine when I was just a wee-little-one. She liked the mini-dress, but didn't really care for the barrette I tried to have her wear for this quick photo shoot, the second she felt it, she would pull it straight out. Oh the trials of beauty! (There are more photos w/ out my commentary to the right -> on Flickr if you would like to see more of this series...)

Fancy free....

2007-10-03T16:52:00.000-04:00

We bought this lil' vintage Jaymar piano at a beautiful flea market nestled in a small town up on the North Shore last weekend - As we drove home with her latest treasure we propped it beside the car-seat and she played it the entire way home. Here she is practicing a prelude in Ga-Ga major!

The balancing act

2007-09-30T21:03:00.001-04:00

Everyone said how "fast time flies" when you have a baby, and, even though I believed it - I didn't understand what speed meant until I met Jane. Our sweet little-one is now practicing standing (without holding on) as shown here in this glamour shot taken last week. She cruises along furniture and, will push chairs around the apartment at 100 mph while walking quickly behind it. She is growing up so fast I kind of want to put the brakes on, or, maybe I'll just take the back-road instead of the highway.

Making new friends...

2007-09-12T17:01:00.000-04:00

Today you-know-who and I went out to a working farm in Lincoln, Massachusetts - the GPS took me some beautiful back way which was great for a little nap for Jane while I enjoyed the scenery. She was amazed to see some of the animals come to "life" from her "Noisy Farm Animal" book that her Uncle Kirk and Auntie Gail gave her, including this little woolly lamb. Gosh, does life get any cuter than this?

Jane and friends

2007-09-09T20:20:00.000-04:00

Jane went to Margaux' 1 year old birthday party at the beginning of this month. Here she is sharing some of her excitement for this monumental event.

Peek-a-boo-boo

2007-09-03T17:39:00.000-04:00

We took a nice long walk today - around and about, avoiding the large hill that sits in the middle of our neighborhood. Not on purpose really, but it worked out just dandy. We ended up up at this fab playgound in the next town over with tons and tons of people and kids, it was great. I had an idea to take Jane's photo through this tube in the playground.... it didn't quite work as planned, but, I still like it a lot.

Hanging out with Daisy

2007-08-17T12:34:00.000-04:00

Ok. So, of course it's a wee-bit stressful bringing in our baby with 2 cats who have been the ruler of the roost their whole lives. Well, we couldn't be more fortunate with how they have welcomed her with open paws. (Showing no claws of course!)

Standing room only...

2007-08-17T11:55:00.000-04:00

Guess who can stand on her own now? Yep. You're right. She can easily pull herself up from any possible position as long as there is a willing couch, cat or friendly participant near by. Here she is showing off with one-hand-only... this all happened about a week ago, what's going to happen next week!?

Water baby

2007-08-10T14:39:00.000-04:00

Here she is again, sporting her lil' brown flowered suit. She loves her time in the water in the pine-grove backyard!

Vintage

2007-08-10T14:37:00.000-04:00

A friend told me the other day that Jane looks like a "Vintage" baby... I like that.

Flying Jane

2007-07-30T22:33:00.000-04:00

Oak Bluffs has the famous "Flying Horses" which is an indoor super super old carousel ride, it's pretty cool because you feel like you have stepped back in time. Here is Jane at her first go around.

Swinging on the Vineyard

2007-07-30T20:40:00.000-04:00

During our recent trip to the Vineyard, we discovered Jane loved swinging in the hammock....ahh, the life!

Sweet summer sun.

2007-07-20T14:35:00.000-04:00

Jane LOVES the water, and being in her little pool at her grandparent's is excellent!