Family Ice Skating

A few weeks ago I was looking back at my past blog posts and saw that Zahara went ice skating for the first time right around the age Asher is now. At first Dan and I laughed, and thought it impossible to imagine Ash on the ice right now. But, he's made huge leaps recently and is much more agile competent at walking than before. I'm always astounded how a few weeks can make a huge difference in skill level. So, as we were looking for something to do on a random weekend, we thought we'd give ice skating a go.

We had very low expectations for the day. We thought if we could manage thirty minutes of cry-free time, it would be a huge success. And, that's about what we got! Both kids did great, actually. Zahara loved it, but was really sad she wasn't better. She kept looking at some older girls who were taking lessons and saying: "But they can do twirls, why can't I? It's no fair!" So...ice skating lessons might be in her future? Hopefully not for a while. I'm not ready to get up at 4 am to drive her to practice every morning.

Asher thought it was great, and weird. He liked it, but was confused about what he was supposed to do with his feet. We mostly had to just hold him by the arm pits, which is a bit rough on the back after a while.

It was fun, and I'm glad we went. If for nothing else than to see the cutest little ice skates you ever did see! I mean, come on!

See Zahara's first time ice skating here

Dear Asher: 21 Months

Dear Asher,

Happy 21-month birthday! Another great month in the books. We went to Dallas for Passover, we had friends come visit, and we finally got to enjoy some warm weather. You're just getting more and more fun.

Just like last month, you've gone through some major developments. You are chatting up a storm now, with tons of new words every day. You're like a parrot, repeating everything we say.  You know a lot of shapes, objects, vehicles, and sounds. You're especially good at animal sounds, and have even started making jokes pretending that a cow says baa and a duck says moo.

Speaking of jokes, you are a little comedian, making up jokes and doing silly things to make us laugh. This is the first month where it seems you are intentionally changing your behavior to get a certain reaction. I love it!

This is the first month also where you are able to understand and complete simple tasks. If we ask you to bring us a specific item, you can do it. You will (most of the time) listen if we ask you to bring your shoes in the morning, for example. Shoes are an easy one though because you are OBSESSED with being outside. You love walking and biking outside and will have a meltdown if we don't let you out--even in the cold and rain! Hearing you say "outside, outside" in your little voice makes me smile.

We think you're getting your two-year molars now. You've been a little sadder than usual and your hands are constantly in your mouth. Hopefully those pop out soon and you can get some relief.

Ash, we can't believe what a big boy you are. From sitting in your own seat, to brushing your own teeth (with help), to being a great little brother, you're turning out to be a wonderful little boy. We are so lucky to have you complete our family!

April Thoughts by Z

These thoughts give me a little glimmer into Zahara's future. I'm not sure if I should be proud, or scared.

Thought 1:
Z (to Dan after he said she could only have one snack): Because of how you're acting, when it's my birthday you have to leave the house and can only watch through the window. And you can't have cake.

Thought 2:
Z (to me): I know I'm not supposed to correct you, but I'm just correcting you for fun.

Thought 3:
Z: I'm going to be a president. Presidents are in charge of everyone when Hashem (G-d) is not here.

Thought 4:
Z (Putting a sparkly headband on me): You look better with a little bit of glitter.

See previous Thoughts by Z here