The FIrst Night of Hanukkah

On the first night of Hanukkah, Gigi got a Peace Outfit from Mama and Daddy

And, a box full of Chanukkah games (Chanukkah Bingo), hats, mittens and slippers from Grace.

Jordan got a wheelbarrow from Mommy and Daddy

And a box full from NannyG including this Chanukkah puzzle.

Daddy made yummy latkes.

And, Grace helped with bookmark making

Latkes, yum!

Hanukkah Hop from Mama's trainer, Marco

And, the ball popper for Jordan from Marco

Lovely evening

Some Developmental Updates

Jordan....he is talking some. Words like Mama (referring to Mommy AND Daddy), Gigi, Juice (even Orange Juice at Thanksgiving), Ball, Mil (for Milk), Go, Shoes, More....and that's about it. But, beyond words, he talks with his body A LOT! He loves shoes and clothes. He is wearing his sister's shoes above, but he is often donning Mama's or Daddys or even Gigi's princess shoes. He takes shoes off and wants us to put them back on....off and on. In general, he hasn't liked toys. But, from the first 3 nights of Hanukkah, it appears, he is starting to take a turn in the I like toys direction. Or maybe he just likes unwrapping presents. He really seems to get it. Allen's colleague put a gift up in his gift area and he kept reaching for it, wanting to open it. Jordan is also teething A LOT. Gigi didn't really teeth so we don't really know what to do with it. He also loves anything electronic (the vacuum cleaner, Ipad, Iphone, TV remote) and MUSIC. He loves to dance, play music. He really has the beat.

While Mama was away in "Yew Nork" last week, Gigi learned to write her name. Sometimes the "hook" on the G goes in the wrong direction, but we are starting to improve as to how often that happens. Gs are a ball with a "J". If she remembers that, we are good to go.

The making of the Gingerbread Man 2011

Last weekend, Daddy and I went to Trader Joe's and bought the gingerbread man kit. It was Sunday night. Mama was tired, but Daddy (my hero) worked with me to decorate the guy. Fun and tasty!

The Venice Canal Boat Parade 2011

The Venice Canal Boat Parade is an annual event every December. This year, like every other, it was a lot of fun. There are often boats with political messages, some are just decorated, others have performers and this year, there was one with a baby not older than 3 months and an 11 year old doggie (with their Mom). The air was crisp and cool.

Tati and her family joined us as did M&m, Julie and Steven and NannyG and Richard. There were at least 2 Hanukkah boats and a Duck-u-py the Venice Canals. After some fun, we went back home for more playing and snacks.

The Post-Recital Show

After our recital this morning, Tati and I had lunch and decided to put on another show at our house.

This show required audience participation.

First, Daddy was up and gave us his best ballet tree pose.

Then, Mama and Janine did a duet.

Even Tati's grandma got up and danced but the pictures came out blurry so no proof!

My first ballet recital or "show"!

I have always loved putting on "shows" with my friends when playing at home (or at their house). We usually dress up as princesses and make up a show. Today was my first ballet recital. I have been taking ballet since September. Mama didn't tell me that we were having the recital until yesterday (she said it was just in case I would be nervous). When she told me I was going to be in a show, I was SO excited.

Here I am anxiously waiting for my turn (our group was second up).

Mama didn't get great still photos, but she has a few great videos (more technical difficulties - she doesn't know how to get them off the new camera!)

This is me with Laura, my teacher.

After the show was over, we had a dance party on stage and Tati and I boogied away.