Upstate for Feb School Vacation

OK so it isn't Florida but it is always fun to visit Nana, even in the cold. Our trip up was delayed a day because Clare and I caught a stomach bug (and then gave it to Nana - more on that later), but we had a good time for the five days we were there. Here we are in the playland in Colonie Center after visiting the LL Bean store. Clare also started a new series of paintings, trying out a new type of canvas - paper plates. It was amazing how excited she was to paint and cut out the plates. A very good 79 cent investment on Nana's part.

We bought a house!

Just a small bit of information I have neglected to mention. We are all very excited. Not sure if Clare fully understands she won't be seeing her school friends everyday, but it will be an adjustment for all of us.

First Steps - February 16, 2008

She did it. Gwen took her first steps. It was only two but they were without assistance.

Fun in the Sand

We spent the first day of Clare's school vacation hanging out with Dylan, Steve and Taylor. We played at a very windy Maxwell Place playground for a bit before heading over to the 'beach'. Dylan and Clare had a great time digging in the sand and filling up whatever we could find (i.e. the bag from our bagels). When we got home, Clare left behind little piles of sand from her pants cuffs all over the apartment.

Look Ma, No Hands

Gwen is testing her balance a lot these days. She'll be walking before long. Oh help us!

Valentine's Day Party at School

Clare's class had a very fun Valentine's party complete with lots of junk food and crazy dancing!! She received loads of sweet Valentines from her classmates.

Opening Valentine's Gifts

Nana and Annie sent a fabulous selection of gifts, as usual. Nana also sent along very special handmade Valentines. Here is the opening frenzy.

Making Valentines

Clare made all of the Valentines that she gave to her classmates. She was very focused on the whole project, coming home from school and painting a few at a time. She did a great job.

HFA Cabin Fever

We went to Cabin Fever for the first time this year and certainly got our money's worth. Clare and I were there for almost 3 hours. (Paul took Gwen home for a nap after about an hour.) Clare made Valentines, got her face painted, danced, played ping pong with Amanda and got a really cool balloon sculpture hat.