Monday was a vacation day for me so I could celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. It was also Madison’s first full day with our family. We had a quiet morning at home and then went to an afternoon children’s service at The Birmingham Temple. There were about 30 kids there and it was perfectly paced. 20 minutes of “service” and 25 minutes of associated activities. Two of the activities focused on bees. Bees give us the honey we eat with our apples on Rosh Hashanah and they’re in danger so, in the spirit of Tikkun Olam, we built bee habitats and then did a bee craft.

Ready to celebrate!

Making our bee habitats with string, pvc pipe and hollow bamboo sticks.

Our bee craft. Steven didn’t want to dip his thumb in the paint to make his bees so he tried doing it with a popsicle stick. When that wasn’t effective, he recruited my thumb.

Amaya’s bees

Steven’s bees

Sammy’s bees

The kiddie pool was set up for tashlich. We talked about things we want to focus on in the new Jewish year (rather than transgressions from the prior year). Sammy wants to focus on doing a better job pouring his own cereal from the box. Steven and Amaya want to focus on staying in bed in the morning to earn more prizes. All worthy efforts.

Tuesday, the kids didn’t have school but I returned to work. But not before putting together this then &  now of Steven and Morminer. Best buds forever.

On Tuesday, Steven finally got his 6th star and earned a lego set. He was so excited! (Since Tuesday Steven’s earned just one more star. It’s a work in progress.)

Madison did some Rosh Hashanah art with everyone.

Steven’s art was immediately obvious to me from the worm set parallel to the words.

Sammy made it through the painting before he was on to other things. Also obvious to me which was his.

And Amaya’s. It’s interesting to me that both Steven and Amaya are writing their S backwards, though Steven did write it correctly later in the week.

Tuesday night was soccer practice. We had our own little warm up when we first arrvied.

Can you see Steven sitting on the ball? He spent most of practice there. He just wasn’t interested in playing. There was whistle blowing and cheers of “go sis!” and “go brother!” and Coach G said it was fine as long as he was watching to learn while he sat.

Blowing his “whistle”.

Amaya stayed focused (and eventually took of her skirt) for the chance to ride home in the coveted 3rd row seat in my car. It had been Sammy’s turn but Sammy completely lost focus and ran off so Sammy’s consequence was Amaya’s gain.

On Wednesday, I returned to dance class after a 24 year break! I signed up for adult tap class at the same studio where SSA dance. I even have my tap shoes from high school. I love seeing my name written on them from all those years ago. The class was challenging but within reach and I’m excited to go back next week. It worked an entirely different part of my brain and it was fun to see what my body remembers. Though there was no finesse. At this first class, all I could focus on was my feet.

On Thursday, Steven, Sammy and Amaya returned to their dance classes. This year it’s tap and jazz! The kids are SO excited for tap. They’ve been talking about it since last fall. After class Amaya told me, “They taught us to shuffle but I already knew how because you taught us.”

Stretches! Amaya is in the 2nd row with the black jazz shoes.

It’s nice to see Amaya willing to partner up with someone besides Steven or Sammy. That’s been an issue doing partner work during soccer practice.

To continue a busy week, after dance class Madison brought the kids to my office so I could bring them to their back to school picnic. These pictures are a series of shots Jason took as the kids realized he’d arrived. Such joy!

Sammy continued developing his ability to secure food on his own. Like a big kid, he walked up to the pizza table and got his own food to bring back to his picnic blanket. It’s such a far cry from a kid who’d hold on to my pants at these type of events. It’s a testament to both how old he’s getting and how comfortable he is at the JCC.

Ms Shannon! Oh, how the kids love Ms Shannon, the center director. Especially Sammy. He literally vibrates with excitement when he sees her. It’s so sweet.

Sammy got a little creative early on Friday morning when he asked me to take a picture of him holding his camera displaying a picture he took of me.

Sam-Man also got the thrill of helping his Daddy shave!

On Wednesday night I got home from dance class and mentioned, to Jason, that a colleague bought me sushi for lunch. Amaya, tucked in bed, yelled downstairs, “Did I hear you say sushi!?!?” 🙂 I promised to bring some home later in the week and Friday was the night, as a post-dinner treat. The exciting news was that even Steven tried some this time and professed to like sashimi tuna. We’ll see if he eats it again. Amaya then also wanted to try some, when she usually just eats rolls, so Sammy shoved all he had right in his mouth as fast as possible so I couldn’t give any to Amaya.

Saturday morning was game #2 for the Airtime Tweeters. Steven insisted on jersey #3, instead of #2, and I agreed because I’m also someone who gravitates toward specific numbers. I understand his need.

This week’s game was better than last week’s in that Steven went in to play 5 or 6 times but it was still a bit of a struggle each time and he generally only went in for one play at a time. Sammy went in (mostly) willingly but spent his time primarily wandering around the field. He seemed to have very little interest in getting in the mix. Steven did run after the ball but complained that he wasn’t fast enough. Amaya probably got the most game time of the three and is still a little hesitant to get in the fray but I think she did kick the ball once or twice. Everyone was excited that Megan and Taco came to watch the kids’ game!

We all hit up the park after the game. Amaya got a kick out of pushing her brother in the swing.

Last week I connected with a new mom friend. We met via my work and then bumped into each other in the park last weekend. Her son will be in kindergarten with SSA and she’s relatively new to the area. After we saw each other, she sent me an email inviting us all to Owen’s 5th birthday party at their house. I was excited to go because I don’t yet know any other Thornton Creek school moms of kids who are the same school year as my kids.

We knew there would be bounce houses and, luckily, there were two. 🙂

The absolute hit of the party was a battery powered dune buggy that Steven, Sammy and Amaya took turns driving almost the entire time they were there. Steven, in particular, was beside himself!

The other hit of the party was the pinata and all the candy that came pouring out. All three kids were beside themselves. Everyone indulged a little and then their bags full of candy conveniently disappeared.

Sunday started with hours of painting. Steven had me up in the middle of the night for way too long so the morning also included a very long nap for me. I woke up just in time to rush off to another birthday party – this one for a pre-k classmate.

Ready to party!

This time the bounce houses were more our speed. One was just for jumping and one had a slide that Sammy and Amaya were thrilled with. Steven even tried it, too, which is a big step but he thought it was too fast and was “never going on that slide again.”

Who doesn’t love a “tree house”? Steven said, “there’s even a balcony!”

Steven’s first twisty slide. I love seeing that Steven, Sammy and Amaya are becoming less hesitant on play structures. He loved this one!

This afternoon it was time for pink!

“Post for a photo of your new hair color.”

Amaya said, “Take a picture of all of us with our carrots.”

And we wrapped up the day with selfies.

Aunt Sara nicknamed Steven “cuddle bug” and I think it’s spot on.

That’s a wrap! Have a great week!

It seems fitting that this blog is at the start of Rosh Hashana – the Jewish New Year. This time of year is about new beginnings in the Jewish calendar and it’s also about new beginnings in our family. We’re making the transition from Megan to Madison. Steven, Sammy and Amaya started pre-k this past week. They had their first soccer game on Saturday. Next Thursday starts the new dance season – tap and jazz, this year. Even I’m getting in the game. I signed up for adult tap classes! It’s been 24 years since I’ve tapped but I still have my tap shoes from high school and and I’m ready to go.

SSA were all ready for school on Tuesday. Knowing they have Ms. Bri as their teacher was definitely a motivator.

This year, Steven said he wants to be a firefighter. Amaya wants to be a princess. Sammy wants to be a popcorn seller. 🙂

The progression from 2016 to 2017 to 2018 is really incredible to see.

I tried to do pictures of the kids individually but Steven insisted on a photo with “my sister”. He told Sammy to “go stand somewhere else”. 🙁 I let Sammy know he didn’t have to leave the photo but he said, “it doesn’t matter” and wandered off. Of course I worried that it did matter. It’s so hard to know and I feel like there are two lessons that need to happen in those moments. 1. Don’t exclude people. 2. People will exclude you sometimes, so how can you persevere without letting them get to you.

It’s hard to navigate because Steven has a right to a photo just with his sister but he needs to be taught how to articulate that differently. In hindsight, instead of bringing Sammy back into the photo after taking one of Steven and Amaya, I think I would have suggested he have his own photo with Amaya afterward and immediately coached Steven on how to make his request more kindly. Or maybe I overthink it too much. We’re all learning together.

But Sammy was excited to jump back in and link arms with Amaya for this next picture and didn’t seem particularly phased.

The chaos of taking pictures.

Heading in like pros.

Two years ago it took us foreeeeever to get up and down these stairs. The Cline Kids were always at the back of the pack on stairs. No more!

Amaya and Steven dove right in to their new room but Sammy was a little nervous about me leaving. As soon as Ms. Bri took his hand, though, he was totally fine. No tears!

Funny faces for Madison at the end of a great first day. Yay!!

Me: “Why do your signs say 20?”
Steven: “Because that’s our birthday day.”

Tuesday night was the 2nd soccer practice and this time I was able to stay the whole time. Madison dropped the kids off and I met them there.

Steven is both the first to want to sit and the most competitive. There was a game where you kick the ball at the coach and, if the ball touches him, he’ll make any animal sound you want. Steven was determined to catch coach. (He picked a monkey. Sammy picked a lion. Amaya picked a unicorn.) In the second part of the game, you had to catch the other kids with the ball. Amaya was the last one standing! Steven was determined to get her and he finally did.

It was HOT. Steven spent about 1/3 of practice just sitting down.

Sammy spent about 1/3 of practice picking flowers. 🙂

This big kid was in it from start to finish. I’m absolutely shocked at how old Amaya looks in this photo. Bye bye, my baby!

Madison has learned that the way to Sammy’s heart is letting him help prepare food. 🙂

Amaya showing off her new sneakers, and her crazy pattering mixing lol.

Afternoon playtime on Thursday

We had a slow start to mornings as everyone got used to the new routine. The mornings are longer, because we leave at 8:15am instead of 8:20am, and Madison’s taking the kids instead of Mommy & Daddy. It’s been particularly tough for Sammy who was going through a rough patch at drop off as it was. By Friday, though, he was all smiles and ready to roll when it was time to head off to school. Whoo hoo!!

Friday was officially Megan’s last day. It’s really hard to believe. I can’t help but replaying the last 4.5 years over and over again in my mind. Megan’s been with us from the beginning so this transition feels as much about their care as it does about a recognition that we no longer have babies. I’m remembering our first walk with the babies. How I’d make us stop at the gas station on the way to those early, early dr appointments to be sure they were still breathing in their car seats. Putting the kids on a schedule. Starting solids. Early intervention. The first year of preschool.

Megan was part of navigating so much of Steven, Sammy and Amaya’s early years and, with the start of pre-k, I can’t help but think about all we shared together and how far these kids have come from little 33 weekers.

Here’s Megan’s first photo holding all three babies and one taken on Friday afternoon. <3

Sillies. 🙂

]

Steven and May May, a portrait by Steven.

Megan, the kids and I went out for dinner at Garage together on Friday night. Not for a “last” hurrah, because there will be more, but for a “new beginnings” celebration.

A last selfie after our tears.

As a parting gift, Megan took the kids to make me this keepsake. It’s an amazing compliment to the footprint piece she made for my first Mother’s Day. It’s perfect, and I love it.

Saturday was our first soccer game!! Steven powered up by recreating the pancakes on the pancake box. 🙂

Ready for our first game. Go Airtime Tweeters, Go!!

Amaya and Sammy, out huddling with the coach and two teammates.

Sammy, ready at the line.

Halftime powwow.

“Amaya, are you doing a great job?”
“Yeah, I am!”

Amaya and Sammy went right in to play. Amaya chased the ball but seemed nervous to actually get in the mix when everyone was was kicking and getting aggressive. Sammy runs like the cutest little guy every but needs to remember to run to where the ball is. Steven absolutely refused to play for the first three quarters of the game. We finally got him to go in with a promise of visiting the on-site playground after the game. That was all it too, after three quarters of whining! In he went and, when asked, said he had a great time! Of the three kids, he was probably the most aggressive about going after the ball.

The Cline Trio. Coach G was great and let them all go in together during Steven’s first turn out of the field.

Numbers 2, 3 and 4 – ready to play!

Amaya, throwing in the ball.

Made it to the playground! Next week we’ll think to bring sneakers. Cleats aren’t great for running on wood.

Amaya can actually do monkey bars!

Under her jersey is an inside out, silver and black sparkly cardigan, paired with her Frozen leggings. As you do.

Steven, Sammy and Amaya have a new freedom as of this weekend. We now let them play in the backyard while we’re in the house. Previously, we’d only let them on the deck if we were inside. It’s a flight of stairs down to the grass and sight lines aren’t great. Also, it’s not a fenced in yard. But SSA seem to clearly understand the boundaries of where they can go and we can hear them easily with the back door cracked. On my watch, I checked in every once in a while and so far, so good!

I’m taking Amaya to CA the first weekend of October and we were talking about how we’d bring presents back for the Cline men. I told Amaya she’d get a souvenir from the trip and she burst into tears. “What’s a souvenir?!? A souvenir isn’t a present!!! I want a present!!” Poor kid, thinking all she’d get is a trip to CA with her mom. 😉

SSA made Rosh Hashana cards at school and Steven wrote his in Hebrew! שנה טובה means “good year”. He did a great job!

This morning, the kids made hammocks and got comfy to listen to music. Steven started it all with a fort but, once Amaya made a hammock, the boys wanted in on that fun.

For lunch, it was a Daddy/Sammy adventure to Benihana! Sammy even dressed just like Daddy for their lunch date.

This guy loves his Daddy.

“Don’t leave me, brother!”

Steven’s still really into the Statue of Liberty lol.

For Rosh Hashana eve, we were invited to the home of one of the kids’ classmates. They’ve been in class with Shoshana all three years they’ve been at the JCC and her parents generously invited us to dinner with her family.

Amaya decided she should wear her “wedding dress”, a bun and a tiara. Then she suggested we tell Shoshana’s family that Amaya is in the “hostipal” and so we had to bring Princess Aurora with us, instead.

I asked if she wanted to pose for a photo and this is what I got lolol.

<3 <3 <3 At dinner, Amaya said she wanted to tell me a secret. The secret was “I love you the most”. That is quite a gift from my daughter who is very careful to keep her emotions guarded. Steven is the child who tells me he loves me with practically every other passing breath, while Amaya shares those feelings with me much less frequently.

Steven and Amaya were quick to play when they saw all the new toys. Steven, in particular, dove right into to pretend play with Shoshana. Sammy was more hesitant, which wasn’t surprising. For a good part of the evening, he wanted to stick close to Jason or to me.

After a while, we did convince Sammy to open up the chair next to him and convince Steven to sit with the kids. I think it was their first real “kids table” that included people they don’t know.

Amaya and Shoshana put on fancy shoes. I asked if they were dancing and Shoshana said, “no, we’re rock stars.” 🙂

They even got up on “stage” for a performance. Steven was insistent that the overhead lighting be turned off with just the fireplace lights on to shine down on the stage. He had a very strong sense of how everything should be, which isn’t surprising.

I’m off from work tomorrow for the holiday and will take the kids to an afternoon family service – our first together, and I’m looking forward to it!

For all of those celebrating, Shana Tova. And to everyone reading, have a great week!

This week started a big transition period for our family. After 4.5 years, we’re getting ready to say goodbye to Megan as our nanny and welcome Madison. This has been in the works for 6 months but it’s hard to believe the time has come. Megan has helped care for Steven, Sammy and Amaya since they were two weeks old. She has spent more waking hours with them than I have, and she and I have spoken every weekday, at length, about the kids and our lives. Megan’s been a tremendous partner for us in the kids’ care and will, hopefully, always be a part of SSA’s lives.

And if this week is anything to go by, we hit the jackpot with our transition to Madison as our new nanny. She’s caring, she’s insightful and the kids are already comfortable with her, in part because she was able to spend time with them throughout the summer. This coming week is one last week of overlap between Megan and Madison and then the transition is official.

The kids didn’t have school this week so Madison took on the first half of the day. We started off washing the myriad of shells that came back with us from New York. (And how was that only a week ago!?!)

It’s not specifically dresses that Sammy likes. It’s twirling. 🙂

One year ago, a triplet mom friend told me about an app called Artkive. You can upload your kids’ artwork and then have it made into books (or gifts). I started saving Steven, Sammy and Amaya’s art in the app last September and, at the end of camp, I had one year’s worth of art turned into books. They are spectacular. The process to create the books was simple within the app and the quality is even better than I hoped. They’re amazing keepsakes and it’s allowed me to avoid holding on to waaaaaaaay too much artwork through the year. I’m so excited to start their pre-k collection!

By Tuesday morning, Sammy was ready to help Madison make oatmeal.

Madison also got fancy with Amaya’s hair!

This year, SSA are taking tap and jazz class. We transitioned from ballet to jazz because they really want to take tap and it’s back to back with jazz. To get ready, Megan and Madison took them to buy tap shoes, jazz shoes and new clothes. Amaya was so excited to pick this new leotard.

The boys, trying on their new tap shoes. So cool.

Tuesday was also the first soccer practice! I had an Ele’s Place event that night so Penni took them to practice, I met up with everyone there, and then headed out to the event just before practiced ended. It takes a village…

The coach (Coach G, the kids will tell you) had the patience of a saint. He’s really good with little kids and seems to expect the (low) skill level and poor concentration. Steven was into it right away. Amaya played it cool in the beginning but then got into it. Sammy was hot and cold – sometimes right in the mix and other times wanting to stand by my side. Overall, it was a great start!

I love this picture that Penni took. Beyond the field, across Grand River Ave., you can see the circus tent set up for the state fair.

Go team!!

Another new hairstyle by Madison.

Steven did his own hair, and was very proud of his effort.

On Wednesday, SSA got outside and painted their newly cleaned shells.

Thursday night cuddles with Samscicle.

After bed on Thursday, I went to a goodbye party for a regular at my sushi place. Sammy and Amaya asked that I please bring them sushi for breakfast. Their wish is my command. California rolls plus sashimi tuna and salmon for Sammy. I just ordered them some training chop sticks so I can stop rigging them with rubber bands every time.

Thursday afternoon was a special one. As our thank you gift to Megan, we got her a photo shoot with Steven, Sammy and Amaya. She and the kids met the photographer at a local playground for their photos.

They got in some play time beforehand…

I love this dress on Amaya. I’m glad she’s finally wearing it because it will likely be too small by spring.

Bedtime shenanigans with Daddy

Friday morning I finally got my act together and set up Pandora on my tv. Dance Party time!

Steven the Shape Bandit, supporting St. Baldrick’s.

Reference point – the Shape Bandit is a “bad guy” in an episode of Team Umizoomi. Steven’s always careful to have his sock-gloves on when he’s the Shape Bandit.

Both boys earned these walking, oinking pigs for staying in bed so of course they needed leashes.

I was able to leave work early on Friday so Megan and I decided to take the kids for a picnic dinner at Maybury Farm. It was a gorgeous night and a fun, unusual dinnertime adventure.

This little face.

This is what Amaya looks like when she’s proud of herself. She was explaining that she did something on her own. I said, by yourself? “Yes, really!!”

Amaya wanted to pet the bunnies. We’ve come a long way.

We wrapped up our afternoon in the play area. Boy these kids know how to have fun with wooden vehicles. It’s fun to look back on h

On last stop to pet some horses before we left for the night.

I thought the kids’ first soccer game was on Saturday but it’s next week. The good news is that I realized before we left the house. It mean that everyone was up and raring to go by 8am. Amaya got out some energy climbing.

Sammy: I needed to get to the end of the roll so I could make a telescope.

Jason had to go into the office on Saturday so I decided to try a solo trip with the kids to the JCC pool. We left the house a little after 10am and had a full day, getting home around 3:30pm. It was quiet when we arrived but got more crowded as the day went on which was nice for SSA. They seemed to like it even more when they had school friends to play with.

Amaya was in the water immediately. In fact, she probably spent a good three hours in the pool. She loooooooved getting to wear her puddle jumper and showing me how she can “swim”.

The pool has a nice concession stand with a grill and it opens at 11am. Immediately, upon our arrival, Sammy announced that he was hungry. We had to wait a bit but he was eyeing the window and, as soon as he saw it open, he came to tell me that he thought he could get food now. I told him to go and ask if they’re open. “I don’t know how.” “Go up and say, ‘Excuse me. Are you open?'”

And he did! It was so cute to hear his little voice up at the counter. This is the face of a cute boy running back to tell me about his accomplishment. I know he was nervous but he was also determined.

This was the start of food runs for all three kids. They had a blast taking my credit card up to the window to order food on their own. <3

Playing in the big chair! (Or my kids shrunk.)

Can’t go to the pool without the pigs. (When their friend Shoshanna arrived, Sammy ran over to give her a hug and then immediately showed her his pig. 🙂 )

It took a while for Steven and Sammy to warm up to going in the water. Sammy got there first, with the help of two pool noodles to supplement his puddle jumper. Once he was sure he felt secure, he was fine. Steven took longer. Eventually I offered to hold him and then pushed the issue to show him that he could stand easily and also float. At first he didn’t want me to let go but, within 5 minutes of getting him fully immersed in the pool, he was asking me not to touch him.

Having so much fun!

It was another great day at the pool. I can’t believe I waited until August to start going. Next summer we’ll get there as soon as it’s warm enough. Hopefully we’re also able to get the kids (really) swimming by then, too.

Saturday was State Fair day!!

Amaya was excited to wear a new Charlie hand-me-down and messy bun. 🙂

It was another amazing day. We spent almost 5 hours at the fair. No wagon. No stroller. No diapers. No sippy cup. No nap schedule. No meltdowns. All I brought for them was extra sunscreen. Amazing.

After the success at the July 4th festival (“festibal”), we got the kids ultimate wristbands so they could go on as many rides as they wanted to. Similar to last time, Sammy and Amaya were comfortable on a wider variety of rides but Steven was able to find 6 that he liked, including ones I’m not sure he’d have tried in July (tea cups). Sammy even went on a “grown up” ride. He needed an adult to join him and I was the sacrificial lamb to spin every which way for what felt like forever. But, in the middle of the ride, he yelled, “This is amazing!” Amaya and Sammy went on ride after ride after ride. Twice they had to stop to take Amaya off (roller coaster & honey bear) but they kids all did great!

Amaya and Sammy went on the ferris wheel with Daddy.

“Whoooooooah”

Jason took a lot of great video at the fair but this 5 second clip is my favorite.

There was also a ton to see inside the venue including more rides and lots and lots of animals. Steven was obsessed with a Lego training going around the track – so much so, that we’ll likely take the kids to the Lego event there later in September.

We wrapped up our day with facepaining and airbrush tattoos for Steven, Sammy and Amaya.

First we had two unicorns.

Steven had a very difficult time deciding but eventually settled on R2D2.

After a busy Saturday and Sunday, we took today easy and had a pajama day. As Sammy keeps saying, “It’s a holiday!”

“Look at my Js!”

There was a lot of art time in the morning. I drew pirate ships, R2D2 and C-3PO for the kids. When I wasn’t sure I could draw C-3PO, Steven told me not to worry if it wasn’t exactly like the picture. Taking the advice I give to him, I went for it and surprised myself.

My C-3PO

There was a mommy-led tap class in the basement. Only Amaya was really into it but she was super focused on our “routine”. Steven did join in to choreograph. “How about this? You try ‘tap, tap, tap and spin’.” And so we did!

Between music, tv and movies we also tried a little play doh outside. (Turns out they needed tin foil to roll it on instead of paper.)

I’ll wrap it up with this last photo of Steven. He popped into the living room and said, “I’m the Statue of Liberty!” 🙂

Tomorrow is the first day of pre-k. Incredible!! So much anticipation and so much potential as we start a new school year. Steven, Sammy and Amaya are excited to have Ms Bri as one of their teachers this year. Sammy’s also excited to see Ms Shannon again. He told me that, every Friday at Shabbat, he runs to give her a hug. As I was for the past two years, I’ll take them to school on their first day. I can’t wait!

Have a great week!

After a long, wonderful week in NY it’s always a little surreal to look back on photos from Monday and realize that was just one week ago.

Coming to NY, Steven, Sammy and Amaya had one wish – to see the Statue of Liberty. We did some research and decided to take the Staten Island Ferry past the Statue so the kids could get a good view without all of the drama of actually going to Liberty Island. At least at his age.

We started our journey over the 59th St bridge. Steven was obsessed with fire escapes, pointing them out right and left. “Oh, my good. There are fire escapes everywhere!” The plan was to build a subway ride into the adventure – the kids’ first.

My friend, Erica, took the day off to join us!

It was fun to see how each of the kids reacted to the subway. Sammy was the most comfortable from the get-go. Steven was very nervous and sat on my lap, with my arms wrapped around him the entire time we rode.

We had a loooooong lunch at Fraunces Tavern. Lots of interesting history there but the everyone’s patience was tested while we waited an hour for lunch. I was really impressed with all the kids. Even I was starting to get testy!

Making our way to the ferry, Erica offered to hold Amaya’s hand. I don’t know if you can see those eyebrows but she wasn’t having it. She wanted to walk by herself.

First view of the Statue of Liberty from the ferry dock!

There she is!

We took the ferry back and forth which is about an hour round trip. The view was perfect and I think the boat ride itself was as exciting as seeing the Statue of Liberty.

On the way back, Amaya threw some sort of fit about something that I never quite understood. Erica took this picture while I was off watching the view with Sammy.

Eventually she got over it. Whatever “it” was.

Such a fun adventure!!

On the way back uptown, Amaya and Sammy got the hang of standing on the subway. Sammy even did a fist bump with a group of talented subway musicians and handed them some change.

Nana and Papa got the kids souvenir snow globes. When Amaya’s broke, Savta came to the rescue with a Statue of Liberty she had at her house. And when Sammy’s broke, she found another for him! Anticipating that Steven’s might break, Savta gave him a replica of the Empire State Building complete with a working thermometer. From here on out, the ESB will be known, to Steven, as “the thermometer building”.

Tuesday was our first beach day of the trip!

Amaya was thrilled to get in the big pool and “swim”. The water was freezing and the pool was practically empty but our girl persevered.

Sunbathing…

SSA remembered digging holes last summer and wanted to do it again. “Mommy! Chasey found dug down to water!”

We read lots and lots of books while we were in NY.

Wednesday, Amaya had her first haircut!! She’d been a little nervous but, with Charlie to go first, she found the courage and loved it!

Lock of hair. I said I wasn’t going to keep any but, when the moment came, I couldn’t help myself.

All done!!

Adding a pink extension.

Back at Aunt Sara’s house, the boys passed time playing War with Savta.

When we returned, we learned there was a police officer feeding his horses in the parking lot behind Aunt Sara & Uncle Dave’s dead end. We all headed over to check it out and the officer was nice enough to let us pet his horse.

Books at bedtime! The kids did a great job sleeping and staying in bed. We brought our Ok to Wake clock and Sammy & Amaya stayed in bed every morning. Steven made it 4 of 8 which might be better than his track record at home. Even better, the kids just came and got me if they were up when the green light went on and let each other stay asleep. I hope we can continue that at home.

Amaya cuts her own fingernails and toenails now lol.

Thursday we were back at the beach.

Sammy started off eating lunch with Steven and Amaya but, eventually, wanted to be by himself. He had a lot of this during the week. There were times of “I don’t want anyone to look at me” and “‘So-and-so is too close to me.” I can understand that the constant energy could be a lot for him so I tried to find ways to give him space and honor his requests when he specifically requested alone time.

Our first trip down to the ocean. Amaya was ready to go!

Sammy and his Savta. “I wish I could be with you all the time. You’re so much fun!”

Together through the years… 2015, 2016 and 2018. I’ll have to look for a photo from last year. I’m sure I have one. It’s Sammy and his Savta, after all.

In the ocean! We started off slow with around-the-waist grips on the kids as they got used to the waves. They were a little nervous at first, too.

Steven looooved it! After everyone went back to the cabana he asked to stay down at the ocean with me. “This is the best day ever!,” he said.

Earlier in the day, Steven had said to me, “I love you, Mommy. I wish I could make a copy of you so I didn’t have to share you. How can we do that? You won’t fit into the copier at school. We need three copies. Actually, we need a copy for Chasey and, I guess, one for Charlie so we need five. How can we do that?”

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Checking out his shells.

Nana, the five kids and I went out to eat after the beach, before Chase’s baseball practice. It was a gorgeous night for dinner on the water.

Steven tried fried shrimp!

Story time! Nana & Papa had some Disney Princess books which were a huge hit this week. We liked them so much that they came back to MI with us.

Even Charlie found a princess story she could read to the kids!

Back to the beach on Friday!

This time it was Sammy’s turn to pull the cooler.

Someone needed her pool time.

Steven tried to get in the big pool, too. He was a little nervous but made it on to the steps.

Only Sammy and Amaya wanted to go down to the ocean on Friday. Nana joined me since we need a 1:1 ratio in the ocean.

Shoveling seaweed.

Off on a shell hunt with Nana.

The kids are always excited for Shabbat with Nana.

All things considered, Steven, Sammy and Amaya got along phenomenally well through the week. It was a lot of together time, out of routine, and they did great. It’s a lot of fun to watch them together.

Steven wanted to make a clown for Nana with some of the shells he found at the beach. Papa did a special CVS run to get glue for him so he could work on his crafts, and Amaya joined in on the fun, too.

The finished product!

Saturday was our final day in NY and one last beach day. Aunt Sara and Charlie came over early to get in some extra time.

Auntie even joined us at the beach. (Steven and Sammy love to make their own sandwiches.)

One last trip down to the ocean. This was the best one yet. The waves were super mild and all three kids had a blast jumping in the waves and hunting for shells.

I even got in deep with Chase which was a blast.

I promised ice cream on our last beach day. Amaya got ice cream. Sammy wanted these frozen lemon and lime balls but he needed to be sure it was junk food. “Are they unhealthy? Are they as many units unhealthy as ice cream?” lolol

Steven doesn’t generally eat ice cream but he really, really wanted a treat. He settled for an ice cream sandwich and eventually decided it would be best if I could just peel off the outside cookie layer and leave the ice cream behind.

On the way home we had our first “fake sleeper”. She was so funny and carried through with it all the way into the house!

Amaya has also taken to wearing her goggles in the bath and shower. “Now I don’t need a towel over my eyes when you wash my hair.”

True photo of my post-beach shower. The only thing staged about this was my request to Sammy to get my phone off the counter so I could get a photo of my experience. He had to be as close to me as possible. 🙂

After dinner Nana, Papa, Savta and Aunt Sara we called it a wrap on a perfect NY week! The best yet!!

Off we went, back to Michigan! This time our travel was perfect and we even landed early. The kids and I have a great routine down, too, with everyone knowing what’s coming next all along the way.

Steven saw this sign and said, “D-E-L-T-A! It says ‘Delta” like on my airplane cookies!”

Today was Amaya’s first time sitting next to a “friendly stranger”.

Steven had an incredible view of Manhattan while we were climbing. “Mommy! I see the Thermometer Building!”

Back in MI!

And back home. ♥

Have a great week!

This week I had a group of remote team members come to Novi for a meeting and, like last year, I hosted the group at my house for a pizza party. The local team came, too, and many of them came with their families. Before everyone arrived, SSA were excited to start eating chips & dip. Big night lol!

We ended up with 21 adults and 8 kids (5 and under) at the house. It took a little while for everyone to warm up but, soon enough, everyone was playing together. Steven liked to direct the activities and Amaya spent time standing on as step stool surveying her domain. Sammy took a near immediate liking to my colleague, Lisa.

Steven, showing off his Frozen tattoo.

Feeding Strawberry!

Thursday was “Fancy Day” at camp. Amaya was thrilled to get to wear her wedding dress and wedding shoes. Steven immediately knew he wanted to wear the dress I always tell them is “too fancy” for camp. Sammy just likes clothes that twirl.

Steven has still struggled to stay in bed at night but finally, finally earned the 6 stars needed to get his watch. Only another 345,564,765,274 days until he earns his next 6 stars. 😉

Amaya had a fever on Thursday night and couldn’t go to her last day of camp so, since we were home together until Megan arrived, we decided it was the perfect time to add a little summer color to her hair. This time she picked red and orange.

Next thing we knew, it was Friday evening and Steven, Sammy, Amaya and I were off to NY for the week!!

The four of us are getting into a good routine. TSA > Potty > Snack Run > Happy Meals > Watch Planes At Gate. This trip, Sammy even wanted to try the moving walk without holding hands. He was nervous but proud.

Our flight was scheduled to leave at 8pm and arrive at LGA at 10pm. Just prior to boarding, we got word of a weather related ground stop in NY which put a hold on anyone boarding the plane. I thought we were done-for but, by 7:45pm, we were getting on the plane. Again, we have a nice routine down. Sammy was excited to sit across the aisle next to a “friendly stranger” and Steven took up his usual window seat.

The kids settled in and we were ready to go! Only New York wasn’t ready for us to arrive. 🙁 We waited and waited and waited and waited. Thank goodness for the new airplane with tvs at every seat. That isn’t typical for my NY flights and, with only one tablet for Sammy to use, I’d have been totally screwed.

Spirits staying high as we waited!

At 9:45pm (2 hours in), we were given the opportunity to get off the plane for an hour with an update and reboarding expected at 10:45pm. I decided it was best for us to stay put. Everyone was settled, and tired, and I didn’t see much to gain from taking all our stuff off the plane only to have to get all settled again an hour later – especially since the kids were relatively content watching shows.

Everyone reboarded just before 11pm and we were set to take off for NY when the seemingly inevitable happened – another ground stop in NY which meant that our current crew would time out. We weren’t going to NY.

This is what we were contending with.

At 12:15am – 4.5 hours after we boarded – we got off the plane with a new flight time of 8:15am. It was crazy. I tried so hard to get a room at the Westin on the airport property but, as the agent was reserving my room, someone else snatched it up. We didn’t have a car at the airport and, at that point, calling Jason to drive out to get us only to turn around 4 hrs later seemed nuts. I called around quickly for an airport hotel that had an available shuttle bus for us.

The Comfort Inn came to the rescue and SSA were thrilled to ride the bus. Amaya made a point to tell her brothers that she also rode a bus like this “at Texas”. Steven said the ride was the “greatest ever”. So, in the end, I had happy, excited kids at 1am in MI when I expected to have happily sleeping kids in NY.

We slept from about 1:30am- 6am when I bribed the kids with juice at the continental breakfast and we hopped back on the shuttle bus for our flight. Our luggage was still on the plane so we had just the carry-on items we brought on the plane with us. In the end, that worked out well because it was less stuff to schlep around but I might pack a few more necessities in our carry-on next time.

Back on the shuttle!

And back on the airplane!

This time, for the first time, we mixed things up and Steven sat across the aisle.

You can’t see it here but he made friends immediately, as he does.

Before the flight, Sammy saw our pilot and went over to say hello. He told us to come by the cockpit when we landed and we took him up on it. He was so generous with the kids. It was a wonderful end to a wild travel adventure.

We made it!!!! I can’t say enough about how spectacular Steven, Sammy and Amaya were through the entire ordeal. They were cooperative, helpful and calm. Amaya, in particular, seemed to sense when she could make a sacrifice to help her brothers be-it changing seats on the airplane or sharing a toy. I am so proud of all three of them.

We got to NY and I promptly fell asleep from 12pm- 2:30pm. Then again from 3:30pm- 6pm. Amazingly, the kids just jumped right into fun. Amaya and Sammy each napped for about 20 minutes in the car but I honestly have no idea where they got their stamina. Youth, I guess.

Steven, laughing at something Chase & Charlie said.

Sister-Cousins

Hugs with Nana

Missed it all. 🙂

Fresh air.

Finally, ASLEEP.

Today Amaya got dressed and put on ALL her skirts. “I have a long dress, don’t I? Send a picture to Dada.”

We had a lazy morning with the Goldbergs and, after lunch, got ourselves together to go to the mall for glow-in-the-dark mini golf.

First time for Sammy and Amaya!

Savta started indoctrinating the kids into the world of perfume/cologne at Neiman Marcus. The kids are all obsessed. “Smell my arm.” Sammy said, for his next staying-in-bed prize he wants 5 bottles. “If one runs out we’ll have another. And if that one runs out we’ll have another. And if that one runs out we’ll have another. And if that one runs out we’ll have another. And if that one runs out we’ll need to buy more.”

For dinner, Auntie, Dod Shuki, Jake and Naomi came over. Lots of kids and lots of noise!

We wrapped up the day with TV and now everyone is fast asleep.

After a rocky start, we’re off to a great start of our week in NY! Have a good one!!

Sammy was proud Monday morning when he earned his next prize for staying in bed. “This Little Golden Book Belongs to Sammy.”

Amaya was next on Tuesday with her Princess Sofia high heel shoes.

They went perfectly with her crown and gloves from previous prizes.

I love this multimedia art that the kids did at camp this week.

The cousin is Charlie. No surprise there.

On Tuesday afternoon Ashley came to visit! It’s so cool that she’s still a part of their lives almost a year after her summer with us. <3

Sammy had a rough week getting off to camp. He really, really didn’t want to go. I don’t know if it was the summer cold he has or something else but it was a struggle to get him out the door – enough so that I moved up “wake” time by 10 minutes. Not only was it hard to get him out, but one morning Jason was stuck there for about 25 minutes. I’m hoping this week is better and, if not, that the two week break between camp and pre-k (!!!!) will be a reset.

On Wednesday, just before the start of his cold, Sammy was tired enough that he fell asleep on the way home from camp. He’s most likely to fall asleep in the car but a drive-home nap hasn’t happened for a while.

My mom brought this V-tech laptop with her a few months ago and it’s a huge hit. The kids are getting more and more proficient with it. It’s so interesting to think about how comfortable Steven, Sammy and Amaya are with technology that was barely a dream, if that, when I was born.

On Thursday it was Amaya’s turn for a sleepover at Grandma’s house! She was ready! She also wanted to be absolutely certain that Grandma knew she could sleep in nothing but a pull-up.

At home, the boys had some pj bike rides. For some reason Sammy has decided he’s scared of his big bike and just wants to ride his balance bike. We’ll have to try to figure out what that’s about.

Dinner with Grandma Sunshine!

Here’s some art that came back for me. Lovely buildings!

The kids – Steven and Amaya in particular – are really into all sorts of pre-literacy activities. One of the big ones right now includes writing down our dinner orders (and then making it for us). They both take meticulous (unintelligible) notes. Amaya tends to serve me pretend food while Steven spends time in their play kitchen preparing my meal.

The matchbox car race track was a big focus this week.

Saturday morning we were back at order taking!

My delicious meal, compliments of Steven.

The front of the packet of construction paper has a picture of these hats and Amaya wanted one, which soon meant everyone wanted one.

Amaya said, “put your arm around me, Sammy.” Sammy tried to put his front arm around Amaya and she said, “No, just the back one. Like this.” 🙂

Daddy’s turn!

This week signed the kids up for soccer! It’s through the city of Novi with practice once a week at 6pm on Tuesdays (late for us) and Saturday morning games. The whole season runs just 6 weeks which is a nice taste for the kids. To prep, we headed to Dick’s to stock up on cleats, shin guards and socks.

But first, picking flowers.

I’d called ahead to be sure they had cleats in the kids’ sizes. Sammy and Amaya picked neon yellow/green and Steven picked pink.

Ready to play!

There’s a track around the shoe department which provided a great opportunity to test out their new cleats.

After Dick’s we had lunch at the mall where everyone wanted a turn on the “rides”. Steven was insistent that his rides not move, so much so that he made me put my hand over the coin slot while he was in one of the vehicles. Amaya and Sammy wanted them to go, go, go.

This weekend it was Amaya’s turn to come with me while I got my hair cut. Amaya planned to color the whole time but my hairdresser, Ashley, had other plans.

Look at Ashley’s helper! Ashley was awesome, letting Amaya get in on the action.

Her fee: Ice Cream. (I really, really dislike mint flavored foods. Turns out I have two kids who love mint chocolate chip ice cream.)

Trying on our gear!! SSA chose their shoes, socks and soccer balls!

This morning started with soccer practice with Daddy.

Back to the images on the front of the construction paper packet, Steven saw some paper folded accordion style and asked me to make those for him. Once I was done he asked me how to write, “This blue zig zag,” and very carefully wrote it out himself. I only had to help him with the U, S, and the first G. (Recently Steven has been making his “S” on it’s side and he’s trying to practice doing it correctly.)

I’m so impressed with his letter knowledge. I didn’t realize he was this proficient. He also wrote “This black zig zag” and knows his C and K, too. “C is for ‘Cline’, mommy!”

Oh! Another accomplishment for Steven… he started writing the U incorrectly. That’s something that would normally set him off but, instead, he deiced to just draw that circle/heart around it and draw a new U inside. I was very proud.

This morning there was a big Robot Party in Kellogg Park in Plymouth. Lightening Robotics, in partnership with local school robotics club, puts in a big annual event. It was awesome! Tons of science activities for the kids plus real robots!

Making “lava lamps” with water, oil, food coloring and salt.

Tinfoil penny boats. Sammy was the Cline Family winner for the most pennies.

Making rockets with straws, card stock and clay

3-2-1 Blast Off!! We got in line to shoot our rockets over and over and over again. It was a huge hit.

Circuit insects! These guys helped us build complete circuits that light up the eyes. The insects’ bodies were clothes pins with pipe cleaner legs and exoskeletons.

And then the real robots!! Steven was enthralled. There were robots of all different sizes and he couldn’t get enough.

Our turn to “drive” the robots. Sammy was eager to go first. The could make the robot “car” move around and also launch a ball. So cool.

We wrapped up our morning with lunch out. I love eating outside. I love summer.

When you decide you don’t want pepperoni after all…

So proud! Amaya pet a dog!! Earlier in the day, Steven and Sammy both pet another dog but Amaya was too scared. This dog was outside the fence by our table while we ate and I think she was able to see that it was a calm pup. It’s owner was awesome and made sure to keep control the whole time and keep the dog’s head toward her. That helped a lot. One step at a time.

We wrapped up our day with a little swimming, where Amaya and Steven decided they needed their puddle jumpers and Sammy was happy to have the science equipment all to himself.

I’ll wrap up this week with a video Jason took of Steven’s barbershop.

Have a great week!

Monday morning I flew off to NJ for work while Jason was starting a week long vacation. It was the perfect time to build much needed box springs for the boys’ beds. He had 3 eager helpers underfoot.

No more toddler rails! Steven and Sammy were so excited to show me. “Close your eyes, Mommy. It’s a surprise!” And, “Now our beds are high like Amaya’s!” Hopefully more comfortable, too.

Last week the kids tie died t-shrits at camp and Tuesday was the day to wear them.

Tuesday afternoon, Jason got in some batting and catching practice with Steven, Sammy and Amaya.

Jason and I crossed paths on Tuesday. I was in the air flying home from NJ when he headed off to Cleveland for the National Sports Card Collector’s show. On Thursday morning, half-way through the mornings on my own, I decided to follow in Nana and Daddy’s footsteps and take the kids to Starbucks for breakfast.

Breakfast of champions! While Steven chomped on a chocolate chip muffin and Amaya had lemon pound cake, Sammy ate cheese, crackers, apples and grapes. He especially liked the brie, about which all the kids said, “It’s like Ms Bree!”

Amaya successfully bartering food with her brother…

This is a Rapunzel dress but it’s purple like the dress Sofia the First wears so Steven’s a fan.

He’s wearing his Sofia amulet but can’t look away from his trucks while he shows me. (“No, Mommy. It’s AM-bu-lent.)

Jason sent some videos of his experience in Cleveland which thrilled Steven, Sammy and Amaya.

SSA are still earning prizes for staying in bed until their green light goes on. I’m pretty sure Sammy has lapped Steven at least twice by now lol. For his most recent prize he asked for a ghost costume so he can scare people. He’s such a funny kid. I had to let him try it on before camp on Friday.

Maybe it’s because Jason was away, maybe for no real reason, but Sammy had a hard time saying goodbye to me at camp this week. Fortunately for us, Ms Bree made sure he was cuddled and cared for when I left.

This picture came home with Amaya. 🙂

Some artwork from the week!

Steven drew “swimming in New York with Mommy”. <3

Amaya drew herself swimming.

Sammy drew himself on a slide.

Sammy continues to be our most adventurous eater. On Saturday morning he tried sardines in mustard sauce. Honestly, it was hard for me to even serve it to him but I put on my game face and got the job done with an encouraging smile.

Saturday, my friend Courtney and her family were visiting from Indiana for a family party and we were able to meet up. First at the playground and then back to my house for lunch. We had Amaya and 6 boys lol.

So proud he climbed up that ladder.

The loooooove this little twisting, spinning thing.

I think all 6 of the triplets are in this photo. SSA call this this the “garden” and the love to spend time there when we go the playground.

Courtney’s oldest son, Andrew, was playing minecraft and Steven, Sammy and Amaya were enthralled. They climbed right on her husband, Jake, to watch.

Sammy wanted to scare the other kids in the playground lol.

Steven took a turn, too.

The whole gang!

Today, Madison and I took the kids to Martindale beach at Kensington Park. How have I not been spending my summers on MI lakes? Lakes are amazing! Calm, clear water. No riptides. Warm. We had SO much fun and everyone loved being in the water, too! They’re already asking when we can go back.

Amaya went right in. Nothing was stopping her.

This was the first time using puddle jumpers. I told Amaya she’d be able to float in the water and she went for it immediately. No fear.

Steven and Sammy really impressed me with their willingness to get in the lake, especially Steven who even worked up to floating a bit. It was awesome.

Madison started a hole digging contest. Steven won for widest hole. Amaya won for longest hole. Sammy won for deepest hole.

Chilling.

Amaya is fiercely independent but sometimes she still needs her mommy.

Just a perfect, perfect day. We were there for 4 hours and everyone was disappointed when it was time to leave. Like the kids, I can’t wait to go back.

Have a great week!

Monday, at camp, the kids were tie-dying shirts and we were told to send them in clothing they could get dirty. These shirts fit the bill and the boys added to the ensemble with their winter hats. It was only 80 degrees. Why not?

Can you tell that Amaya did her own hair? She sat, very focused, in front of her vanity mirror.

Nana took the kids to Starbucks for breakfast before camp. When she got to the table where the kids were waiting, the couple next to them commented that Amaya was a big sister with twin brothers. When Nana corrected them and said they were triplets, the couple said that Amaya had told them that she was 5 years old and the big sister, and her brothers were both 4. Apparently she totally sold it. This girl.

Fun with nose plugs.

Watching the washer.

Always safe with Morminer.

Eating a cracker sandwich for breakfast lol.

Megan’s mother was out of town this week so Taco was an afternoon visitor Tuesday-  Friday. <3

The kids love Mikey! Megan says they love him more than they love her. I challenged that but she says it’s because he never tells them what to do. Which is true. But still not reflective of who they love most. 🙂

Steven was so excited to uses the “big” vacuum. The best thing about this is his outfit. He looks like a crime fighting baseball playing cleaner.

Amaya has been obsessed with their teacher, Miss Bree. In fact, if she’s angry with me she’ll tell me that she’s going to live with Miss Bree. Last night she told me that we’re her pretend family and Miss Bree is her real family. Hearing all that, I had to get a picture of them together – and they made it very easy. I love that the kids love the teachers at their school so much.

I was in Orlando Wednesday and Thursday and was happy to see that, Thursday morning, Amaya earned her newest prize for staying in bed – a Princess Sophia crown!

Picture for Mommy while I’m away.

Did I mention that Amaya loves Mikey? She wrote that herself and even drew the heart.

Friday morning SSA had a 2nd trip to Starbucks for breakfast, this time compliments of Daddy!

Friday afternoon was more bike riding…

Even Taco joined in.

After last weekend’s success at the pool I wanted to try it again, this time in the outdoor pool the kids use during the week. Everyone was excited and I had Madison with me for an extra set of hands.

Someone wore TWO bathing suits.

This part of the pool is 3 feet deep. Amaya went in right away and Sammy was coaxed in pretty easily. Amaya’s always in the pool during camp and Sammy has ventured in a few times. I could barely get Steven off the steps. He was so frightened and kept insisting that the water would be over his head. I took a cue from last weekend and convinced him to let me hold him in the pool. Then I lowered him down a few times so he could see that his feet touched the bottom. It worked! Most of the time he didn’t want to leave the side of the pool but he went in and was incredibly proud and excited to be in the water.

Chitchatting with Amaya.

A granola bar break. Afterward, I showed the kids how I can jump off the diving board. I forgot how much fun that is! Another swimmer then showed the kids how he dives, which absolutely enthralled them. Madison wrapped it up with canonballs!

After our break everyone got back in and Amaya came across a very sturdy pool noodle that got everyone’s attention. Fortunately, we came across two more.

At first Steven still wanted to hang on to the ledge but eventually he got the hang of it and said, “It’s like having a ledge everywhere I go. Now I can go everywhere I want.” Sweet boy.

Great afternoon! We can’t wait to go back!

Swimming wipes you out. I love how Sammy lounges. Always have.

Jason got Amaya a canopy for her princess coach bed. It’s perfect! Steven calls it a “parachute carriage bed”.

A month or so ago, the kids potted vegetable seeds at the Maybury Farm Festival. Amaya dumped out most of Steven’s dirt and he’s been disappointed that his plant isn’t growing so he and Jason went to Home Depot to get new supplies. “It’s not dirt, mommy. It’s soil.” Steven is back in action!

Compliments of Sammy… want to entertain 3 young kids? Let them play “Cat” for a while. It was so funny. They absolutely loved it.

Today we went to Kensington Farm Center with my friend Bethany and her trio, who are the same age as SSA. We packed a lunch, suncreened up and headed out!

Amaya is definitely past her fear of farm animals. Yay!! She even fed a goat.

Sammy’s turn feeding the goat.

Quickly snatching his hands back when the goat took his food. 🙂

Steven was thrilled that there was a brown sheep at the farm. “It’s Morminer!!”

Lifting 20lb bags with pulleys.

Our tall girl.

The whole gang! Bethany and I have been friends since before our kids were born so it’s awesome to watch them grow up together.

Amaya picks flowers wherever she goes so guard your gardens, folks.

When we left the farm, we were delayed while everyone took in this very large butterfly. Massive. Humongous. Enormous!

Jason’s getting ready for the National (ball card show) and Steven’s helping out and playing “ball card show” along with Daddy.

Cuddling & singing with Daddy, too.

We wrapped up our Sunday with pool time. Even here, Amaya wants to put her face in the pool and blow bubbles.

5 years ago TODAY, Jason and I learned we were having triplets. And here we are today. The wildest news turned out to be the best news.

Have a great week!

Bedtime dance party! I love any picture where the kids are holding hands and playing together. I’m so curious how their bond will evolve and change as they grow up. I hope, hope, hope they stay close.

We’re still working on our star charts for staying in bed all  is night. Sammy and Amaya are motivated and earning prices pretty quickly. (Here, Sammy is with his new Shimmer doll.) Steven is having a harder time. We’re going to try buying the prizes in advance so there’s something very tangible to work toward.

Tuesday was a picture perfect day so Megan made the most of the weather and took SSA to a splash pad.

Madison came to babysit on Tuesday night while I plans out. Before bed, everyone got busy making dream catchers. The kids made them at school when Steven was at Grandma Sunshine’s house so Megan had the idea of making them at home because Steven wanted one, too. Amaya has made about 30 since lol.

Out on a boat with 7 other local triplet moms. It was such a good time. I had the oldest kids with the youngest being about a year old. I have it a lot easier right now than the moms in the thick of young toddlers.

Wednesday night was Sammy’s turn for a sleepover at Grandma’s house. He was so excited that he wanted to pack before camp.

While Sammy went off with Grandma, Megan took Amaya and Steven to Maybury Farm. Amaya was SO brave and actually pet the animals – a horse and the bunnies! I’m proud of my girl for trying. (Everyone was in yellow because it was color war day at camp and their bunk’s color was yellow.)

Is this the best, or what? Someone is beyond excited for an ice cream brownie.

Thursday morning… look at the waves in Amaya’s hair from a braid in her ponytail. <3

While Steven and Amaya were at camp on Thursday, Sammy and Grandma Sunshine hit up two local parks.

I finally printed the third year blog! Whoo hoo! It’s always a relief to know I’m not relying on digital files. This takes us through when SSA turned three and now I’m on to year four. It would be great if I could get that done before they turn five. I’m determined to catch up one of these years. 🙂

It been a week of Lincoln Logs. Lots and lots of houses and barns have been built. SSA aren’t quite adept at building on their own yet but they’re getting there. Working around the doors and windows is still tricky for them to figure out.

Our perfectionist. One who gets pissed.

Chilling out before bed. Shimmer’s getting a lot of love.

Nana came to visit this week and arrive on Thursday night. We ordered sushi for dinner and got some extra which Sammy and Amaya devoured for breakfast on Friday morning. I love watching them eat sushi. I still haven’t taken them to a sushi restaurant but that might be on the docket soon.

Friday afternoon, everyone showed Nana how they ride their new bikes!

Can’t end Friday night without Shabbat with Nana. 🙂

It was a rainy, rainy weekend so we made the most of it by going to the pool at the JCC. Amaya loves to swim and the boys have some nerves so this was a chance to get Amaya more time in the pool and work with Steven and Sammy on their comfort level.

The kids swim Tues, Wed and Thurs at camp, usually in the outside pool. Their inside pool is used during the school year and on rainy days. It’s zero entry and has a shallow side blocked off from a deeper side. On the deep end, there’s a two foot shelf the kids can stand on before it drops to 4 feet. The deep side is where the instructors hold lessons during the year.

Amaya was ready to come over to the deep end right away.

She just wanted to jump and jump and jump.

Sammy warmed up pretty quickly. He didn’t want to go underwater but he liked when I helped him swim but holding him under his arms and letting him kick.

Steven wanted to come over to the deep end so badly but he was really scared to do it. There was a long period of hemming and hawing and false starts before we finally made it happen. At first he just clung to me but, soon enough, he loosened up. He still stayed in the one corner but he was happy and proud to be there.

Sammy blowing bubbles. And even Nana got in the pool!

It was a lazy, grey Sunday morning in the Land of Cheltenham.

Helping Nana prep for tonight’s dinner.

Piling on Daddy

Building with Nana

A million books read!

We spent the afternoon back at the pool building on what we tried yesterday. For almost the entire time there we were the only ones in the pool!

“All aboard the underwater train!”

In the background you can spy Nana with Sammy. She graciously jumped in when I was too cold to keep on swimming. These kids have stamina!

Amaya takes after me and gets cold fast. You still have to drag her out of the pool though!

It was a great weekend. I’m curious to hear if this weekend’s time at the pool has any impact on them at camp this week.

Have a great week!

This week Amaya and Sammy got back into taking selfies. We had a few starts and stops to help them coordinate pushing the button and looking at the same time.

Watching animal videos that Grandpa Homey sent us.

My friend Hannah got us this book about problems. Steven looked at it and said, “Oh, his problem is a big rock in the sky! Or maybe a big thundercloud, actually.” Lol

Just a cute face. <3

The kids still love “science” on the deck.

Except for days like this when Sammy is the last man standing after Steven and Amaya were chanting, “We hate science. We hate science.”

Steven had a PLAN on Wednesday night. And the plan was that he and Amaya would sleep together in the big bed and Sammy would sleep with them on the floor. He brought everything into the room and got it ready. Poor kid had to live with my “no” after all that work.

He still slept in there, though, after saying that Amaya had been meant to him and he didn’t want to sleep with her. At least they have options.

Thursday night was a sleepover at Grandma Sunshine’s for Steven! The first of the season!! He packed himself and was ready.

Safe and sound, and having a great time!

I was AZ for work on Friday and took a red eye home on Friday night so I slept all morning on Saturday. We’re transitioning to new dishes so storage lids made for great lunch plates for SSA.

We recently returned to a star system to motivate Steven, Sammy and Amaya to stay in bed until their green light goes on and it’s working!! Whoo hoo! We generally give them small prizes but they’re ready for new bikes so we used this as an opportunity for an upgrade. It was Wednesday morning when they earned their 6th star so everyone was eager to get shopping on Saturday afternoon, especially after their test rides the weekend prior in Cleveland.

Steven and Amaya chose to wear my shirts which had to be pinned in back.

Hello Target!

Sammy’s new Storm Trooper bike!

Amaya’s new princess bike. She looks so OLD!!!

Putting air in the tires. 🙂

Steven is still most comfortable on a “bike with three wheels”. When he’s ready, we’ll upgrade.

This morning Jason spent more time outside with the kids teaching them how to use the breaks and turn their bikes around.

Last night the kids wanted to eat dinner out on the deck and it was an easy yes. Stuff like that is what I loved about summer. I do wish we had lightening bugs in our area, though.

Deep in conversation.

Steven and I went for another bike ride in today’s scorching heat. This boy, man. He’s so self-assured and aware of his interests and disinterests.

Sammy wanted to taste the “spicy” drink Amaya had in Texas. Jason made it happen and supplied everything needed to make Sammy a Shirley Temple. 🙂 Kid loved it.

Just two more photos this week.

One from 4 years ago. Look at these boys! I want to go back in time and scoop them up for hugs.

And I’ll end with Poppy Steven. On Monday, 7/9 we remembered 35 years that he’s been gone but, for sure, he is never forgotten. He even lives in the hearts of 5 grandchildren who never met him but know how important he was, and is.

Have a great week!