Bklyn/NYC!

We've just returned from a brief but wonderful trip to NY.  First, we headed to Brooklyn (with lunch along the way at a diner in NJ, of course).  We drove by Mama Jeanne's house on Ft Hamilton Pkwy, and 97 Marlborough Rd, where Rich grew up.  The kids counted 10 different languages on signs as we drove through Bklyn, and spotted many Sukkot.  Then we landed at our destination--Aunt Sandy's house:) Many of my cousins were there, and it was such a treat to be all together. We watched Aunt Sandy's wedding video, the kids told lots of jokes, and we enjoyed a moment of togetherness with my family who loves to hug!
The next day we loaded up and headed into Manhattan. The kids love all of the different bridges and tunnels, and truly take it all in.  We parked on the UWS, and took the M4 to the Met.  We walked through The Temple of Dendor, The Armory, Impressionist paintings, and ended our visit by seeing the Pollacks, Picassos, Calders, and Rothkos.   AlteLu was observant and interested, and Hersh sketched everywhere we went.  He was enthralled, and we can't wait until our next visit. 
Then we took the M86 across town, and walked all the way up the UWS (eating at a beer garden along the way), and ending the day with a street fair and a jaunt through Columbia's campus. 
It was a perfect city day, with the kids enjoying every moment of the adventure, and not being phased by the 3 miles we walked.  See you soon NYC!

Feet on the ground

So much is happening all around us, but I continue to focus on keeping my feet on the ground, and things stable for the kids.  They are happy, eager, energetic, and sweet.  They are enjoying the wonderful fall holidays--friends, family, and LOTS of apples with honey.  We went apple picking and made many trips through the BOO BARN!  We also did a special Taschlich service down by the creek with Sabba and Savta.  On erev Yom Kippur, we focused on gratitude and change in the year ahead.  Hersh is getting better and better at piano, and has started back to swim.  AlteLu is loving soccer, and has a reputation among the mothers of her friends, that she will keep the kids in line:)

Whoa, September!

Well, here we are in September, with lots happening all around us. Jacob has been away a whole bunch, giving his parents the support they need.  The kids and I are staying local and staying focused--school, work, piano, cooking, chores, and soon swim and soccer will begin.  We've had the good fortune of having had a beautiful beach day, and an evening of s'mores with friends.

AlteLu says things like, "My heart is filled with joy because I love you so much," and Hersh's teachers can't say enough good things about who he is. And in every moment, our thoughts are with Sabba, the man we love so, for calm, strength, and healing.