Our thoughts on today

What an amazing an interesting day. Definitely one for the history books, and the baby books -aka blog at this house. Today was one of those days where I was intent on having a memory of where I was - as in, where was I when the Challenger blew, on 9/11, on the day Diana died. I think it is interesting to remember all the little details of those days, and how they stick with you.

Today was Red, White and Blue day at Holy Trinity. I guess Nate could have worn his uniform, since the school colors are red, white, and blue, but he was given the chance to 'dress freely' and that he did. Right down to his shoes (blue) socks (white) and undies (red with white stripes). Ian went as batman. I suppose I could infer some kind of connection between superheros and the 44th President of the Untied States, but really, it was just about wearing a mask and a cape.

So I dropped Ian off at school at 8:55am, hearing that they were running 15 minutes behind in the ceremony I thought I would have time to make it to the gym and jump on a treadmill, but no such luck. Shortly after pulling out of the lot I hear them announcing the Chief Justice to swear in Biden and knew I was out of luck. I was about 45 seconds from my dear friend Lisa's house so I hit speed dial and stepped on the gas and crashed in on her during Yo YO Ma, just in time to see the swearing in.

Nate and I watched it again tonight (HT showed it for grades 3-8 only). Interesting to hear the perspective of a 5 year old. "Push pause mom, I can't see the bible. How do you know it was Lincoln's? Is Lincoln on the penny or the dollar. Who was the first president? Did you know grandma made fake money once with Lincoln on it? Do we know anyone there?" (yes, we do, Aunt Cindy) We promptly texted Aunt Cindy and Nate peppered her with questions mostly concerned with whether or not she got one of those tiny flags everyone was waving (no, but she got a button) and why can't we see her on tv and next time, he advised, she should try to stand closer so we can see her on tv next to the President.

He gets that it's a big deal that this is the first "brown" president, but not why quite yet. And there at two "brown" kids in his class but they are just like everyone else and Thien even knows as much about Pokemon as Andrew. Don't you just love this generation?

Huly Hoops

Ian's favorite show in the whole wide world right now is Charlie and Lola. And Lola loves to Huly Hoop, now every day Ian asks to go outside and Huly Hoop too (yes, I know it is hula, huly is a Lola thing). I have spied him practicing in his school gym too. He tops out at about 3-4 revolutions since the whole hip swivel thing isn't happening as much as arm waving and head shaking. But it is his favorite and his best and it's cute.

Dirty Rice

From the mouth of Ian at dinner tonight:

"Mooooooom, I need some soil for my rice please!"

He likes soy sauce.

Hoops

Well here is a small milestone at the DKNI household - Nate has decided to play basketball on a team. That's right - a team sport. Why is this a big deal, you ask? Nate has been vehemently opposed to team sports for all of his short life. Flat out refused to play his beloved sport of baseball last spring and was in tears at the mere mention of having a (gasp) coach, and (gasp gasp) team practices.

Growing up, a little peer pressure, and a boy in his class that he idolizes and we are signed up on a YMCA team with 8 of his classmates and 4 other local kids. They had their first practice today with their coach and 2 assistants. It was a bit chaotic but they managed to get in some dribbling, passing and shooting practice as well as scrimmage. Nate is by far not the most skilled player, but does well and seems to really enjoy it. My 'helper' and I got a few blurry shots off before the camera battery died - more to come in a week or two.

Oh, and a boy after my own heart - it's all about the new shoes. That put him over the top!

Hooked on Phonics

I found this note taped to Ian's door. It is from Nate, to Ian, giving him instructions. Can you guess what it says? (answer below)

Bring Stuffed

Animals

Your Favorite
Bonus Room

Arctic blast 2009 - The theme this time is Get Ready to Riot

After 23 days of no school due to a week off for weather (see Arctic Blast 2008) and Christmas break THIS is what happens to us beginning at about 4 this afternoon. I'd say we are up to about and inch and a half. Hhhmmmppphhh! There will rioting in the streets of Beaverton if they close school tomorrow. (Update: 01/05/09 - school's on. It rained over night!)

Bringing in 2009 with a lot of noise!

Let the party get started.
6 boys getting their grub on
One minute to go and it's really loud.

5, 4,3, 2, 1...Happy New Year (NY time)

Gotta have some roman candles and leftover 4th of July fireworks to bring it in properly.