Donation to the Incarnation Children's Center

I often wish I was wealthy so I could help others.  I often think about how I need to find the time to volunteer.  I'm not saying this because it is PC.  I am saying it because I mean it.  But I am neither wealthy in funds nor in time.  It doesn't mean I don't give when and where I can at any chance I'm given...it just means I hope and want to do more.   Tonight, a strange little moment happened.  I threw out the suggestion of a new thing and it seemed to crash right into another status update about a place my friend volunteers his time.  Another friend was asking people to give a donation for the holidays.  It shed some light on the following...

The Incarnation Children’s Center (ICC) is New York City’s only skilled nursing facility providing specialized care for children and adolescents living with HIV/AIDS.

This is the time of year to be grateful.  As I spend moments tied up in holiday concerts and special events with my children I never forget how lucky I am.  I am thankful for all that they are and all that they will become.  It makes me sad that children ever have to suffer...anywhere for any reason.   The ICC is taking donations, gift cards and even has a shopping list all set up for specific presents that have been requested.  It is one of the countless organizations that need help.  Please, during this special time of year, don't forget to give back...somewhere.  Anywhere.  Thanks Bryan and Colette for being so awesome!

Winter Concert at Smithfield Elementary

     It was the first time I have ever attended one of these at the new school.  I guess last year we just missed the whole thing.  It was a bit nutty in December and this year we had an extra special reason to go...little Emily made her baritone debut.  Baritone.  I know, I know.  When she came home and said she had picked that particular instrument I was a tad confused.  I have now been listening to a daily practice for months but it was all well worth it.  The band was cute...but seriously shoving all proud mama stuff aside...she was really good.  The sound of the tiny tuba is the backbone of the whole song.  But she didn't just make those plain old low sounds...she even had sweet little melodies.  I can brag a bit and say that she is already playing with the older kids and that she did a nice job but more I am just proud of her hard work and enthusiasm.  Pop Pop was super excited as well...even IF she didn't go for the trumpet.  ;)

Take the Children to Meet Master Nam

     I'd be lying if I didn't say that I had a little fantasy about the Karate Kid.  Not Ralph Macchio...don't get nervous.  I thought about how that movie made us all feel as kids.  Sure it had the heroic feel we all seem to desperately seek but there was also a peacefulness in getting the whole picture.  Tonight we entered the inner sanctum.  We have watched through the open doorway while driving by many a time.  I teach my kids about many things...I might even sway them if given the chance.  But this one...all them.  When your child seems genuinely interested in something you let them explore it.  When they both do and it might be something they can bond over while being fit, learning a new discipline and reaching beyond the norm...it's all bonus, bonus, bonus.  We got to watch the end of a private lesson.  A boy had been going for a few weeks.  We watched kicks and hits and form and technique.  Then, as if out of a commercial for karate itself...Master Nam took out a wooden board.  All of our eyes lit up.  The doubtful child said he couldn't do it.  With the type of guidance you see in Oscar winning films...Master Nam took a stance and said that he could.  And he did.  We clapped.  He beamed.  It was a moment that said...YEP, this is right!  Moments later it was just us and he spoke to the kids. He learned their names and ages.  He had Ethan get up and checked his flexibility and strength.  He was impressed.  I have to say I was as well.  Seems there might be something special with this young grasshopper.  After a few private sessions they will be able to join group classes.  We are all very excited.  I had this feeling a few years back when I first spoke to Emily's piano teacher who wanted to meet with her first...and we all know how that turned out.   If they are this excited over the white belt I can't wait to see what's next!

Celebrate Greta's 3rd Birthday

No child has ever grown three years this quickly...and yet there we were singing and watching her blow out three little candles.  Greta is as clever and adorable and as sweet as a child can get.  She was also quite the host and narrator of all things occurring at her little event.  We went fishing, ate some lasagna (some of us baby bird style but I'm not naming names), gulped down some cake and played a bit of jack-in-the-box.  There were also loads and loads of giggles.  Because THAT is how we roll.  Another fun party to celebrate another wonderful milestone.  Happy Birthday to our special little Bean!!!

the ELF on the SHELF

     I had an elf as a kid but I think someone missed the point because it just hung out on a candlestick every holiday season.  This year...one of Santa's helpers...sent our very own elf package.  We named our elf, Elliot.  We read the story and I can't wait to see where the little guy ends up each day!  A little Christmas magic is just what we need right about now!  Hey, Santa's helper...thanks again!!!

Kids Go Shopping

     They have this little event at school for the kids.  They set up a little "store" and the children get to shop for everyone on their list for the holidays.  I jumped at the chance to help out.  A couple years back Emily was sent to school with a list of people and a budget of ten smackers.  She got some hysterically funny items as well as a sparkly little pair of earrings for HERSELF ...and then handed  her Dad a nickel and two pennies and said that she ran out of money.  I still crack up when I think about it.  So I thought maybe I could help some poor Dad somewhere get more than loose change from his kid. 
     Have you ever tried to buy thirteen gifts with a five?  Today, I met the challenge as I escorted the little ones around the room to find just the right items for their beloved friends and family.  Choices were interesting...I'm helpful not a miracle worker.  So here's to hoping that the Dads like those sports pennants and Moms like the lockets and that Auntie Ann is okay with a pen that says "AUNT" because you can only stretch a dollar so far.  Ho, ho, ho! 

Buster Keaton's Sherlock Jr.

     Brilliant.  Absolutely, positively brilliant.