Olivia's Pick--20 December 2008

There's a little hill just down the street from our house that, when blanketed with 10 inches of snow, transforms into a peak of sledding perfection. Neighborhood kids, bundled up to their eyes, can be seen tugging their brightly colored, plastic discs and toboggans toward the hill, long before the snow stops falling.

Of course, we took Olivia last year. We pulled her through the snow, avoiding the steepest part of the hill.

But this year, she was ready for the real deal. Layered in Thinsulate and making that "swish swish" noise as she walked, we trudged down the block. We could hear the laughter before we even arrived. She was mesmerized, watching the other, older kids go zooming down. I had thought she might be scared or slightly intimidated but now, she just looked excited.

We climbed onto our two-seater, no frills, red, plastic sled. "Let's go, Mama!" she yelled.

"Hang on," I said.

A small push and we were off! Her laughter rang out as we bumped and bounced down the slope. Giggling and cold, we skidded to a stop at the bottom of the hill.

She turned back, looked at me from behind layers of pink outerwear and said, "Again?"

Olivia's Pick--14 December 2008

Maurice Sendak's whimsical illustrations + E.T.A. Hoffman's original "Nutcracker" legend = Olivia's favorite new book. This story is the mother of all Nutcrackers, the inspirational blueprint Tchaikovsky used to create his ballet monopoly on Christmas.

Sendak's illustrations illuminate this fanciful and slightly haunting tale in such a delightful way that, upon closing the book for the evening, Olivia will inevitably look at me and say "again!"

Plus, we've added the complete ballet recording to her musical repertoire, layering her experience of this holiday classic. Next year, she'll be ready to see the ballet live!

Olivia's Pick--7 December 2008

Honestly, what is better than the magic of the Christmas season as seen through a child's eyes? Especially a two-and-a-half year-old child who doesn't remember her two previous Christmases!

The wide-eyed wonder on her face when we lit up our tree was priceless. And now, whenever we get in the car, she makes it her job to find and point out every decoration or bundle of lights visible from her car seat. She's even learned several Christmas carols.

I know that as her Mama, I face the challenge of teaching her the true meaning of Christmas, and helping her learn that giving feels better in your heart than getting ever could. And I am already trying to weave these ideas into the fabric of her mind.

But right now, this Christmas, she's still only two-and-a-half. And it only takes lighting up our Christmas tree to put a smile on her sweet face. She's experiencing the magic of Christmas for the first time (even if it is really her third time). And witnessing that is, frankly, one of the best gifts this Mama could receive.

Olivia's Pick--30 November 2008

Horses. Ponies. And more horses.

What can I say? During our week-long, Midwestern, family-filled, Thanksgiving Odessey we managed to get in a visit to a cousin's farm where they had--you guessed it--horses! Olivia took her very first pony ride on Bonnie, a patient brown and white little pony.

Since then, she's talked of little else and I have a sneaking suspicion that her little, plastic, toy horses at home will simply not measure up to her latest experience.

We might have to start an "Olivia's Pony" fund. In the meantime, maybe I'll pick up a copy of Anna Sewell's Black Beauty.

Olivia's Pick--23 November 2008

This past weekend, Olivia flew on an airplane, something she'd been looking forward to for weeks. She would fly around our living room, arms out, flapping her wings, saying "I'm flying like a plane!"

I'm not the best flyer, and I was afraid that, once faced with a real airplane, she might be nervous, too. I gave her the window seat, while I took the aisle, managing books, snacks, juice and my nerves. As we rumbled down the runway, I swallowed my anxiety, reading to her from a beautifully illustrated children's version of "A Midsummer Night's Dream."

We shot into the air and I concentrated, silently willing the plane to stay in airborne, trying not to vomit or lose consciousness. Next to me, buckled in tight, Olivia still managed to bounce happily in her seat. "I want to fly, Mama! Let's fly!" she shouted.

I couldn't help but laugh."We are flying sweetie, see?" I pointed out the window at the receding earth below as the plane turned at a nauseating angle.

"Oh. OK," she said, pressing her little nose to the window. "This is pretty fun."

I guess we'll have to do this more often. Maybe I'll even learn to enjoy it.

Olivia's Pick--16 November 2008

Perhaps I will regret this one day, when she's 15 years-old and this particular Pick of the Week somehow surfaces from the depths of this cyber sea and rears its ugly head. But I'm too excited to keep my mouth shut about this.

This week, Olivia's favorite thing is using the "big girl potty." That's right, she has unceremoniously left her diapers behind (except for bedtime) and she is immensely proud of herself.I am beaming with pride as well, but for me, this milestone is bittersweet. My baby is becoming a little girl, and a bigger little girl by the day.

When I brought her home from the hospital, everyone said "It goes so fast, you won't believe it! Cherish every minute." But I'll admit, I had no idea just exactly how fast it goes. Now, I don't want to blink, for fear of missing something.I've read a lot and written some about being a "present parent." And while no Mama can stop herself from being distracted some of the time, I am recommitting myself to this goal.

Because it really does go by so fast, so fast, I can't believe it. And I want to cherish every minute.

Olivia's Pick--9 November 2008

This week, Olivia's feeling a bit under the weather, so she's less into stuff and more into snuggles. But between sneezing and coughing, she's been enjoying books as much as ever. This week, she's discovering the magic of The Polar Express by the talented Chris Van Allsburg. This Caldecott winner tells the story of a nighttime journey to the North Pole and an exhilarating encounter with Santa. Van Allsburg's signature mysterious illustrations turn this book into a real adventure for the imagination.

Olivia's Pick--2 November 2008

I suppose it had to happen, sooner or later. As much as I tried to put it off, I knew that one day, Olivia would discover the magical pleasure of chocolate.Yep, that's right. She went trick-or-treating on Friday, with the rest of America. And she came home with a bucket full of candy. I sifted through her stash and removed all the the jaw breakers, Starburst, and bubble gum that are too sophistacated for her little 2 year-old jaw. But after all her hard work and excitement, she deserved a taste of her earnings. And she had it, in the form of several small Hershey's bars. She jigged. She ambled. She smeared chocolate on her face, her hair, her costume. She was, I'm afraid, totally blissed out.

So, that's it. The seal has been broken. She now knows the meanings of the words "candy" and "chocolate" and there's now turning back.

I just hope she'll be kind hearted enough to share a Hershey's or two with me.

Olivia's Pick--26 October 2008

A couple of weeks ago, Olivia and I picked up a copy of "The Wind in the Willows," by Kenneth Grahame. We began making our way through it slowly and I was impressed by her focused attention, considering there were only about five illustrations in the whole book.

Last week, she received a beautifully illustrated copy in the mail. (Thanks Grandpa!) It is now officially the only book she wants to read. We're 147 pages into this gorgeous tome, illustrated by Inga Moore. I have little doubt we'll finish it this week. At which point, she'll probably look up at me and say, "Read it again, Mama."

Olivia's Pick--19 October 2008

We've been baking some seriously delicious pumpkin bread around here lately. Olivia is in Seventh Heaven while we bake together. She holds the eggs gingerly, before I break them. And she helps to stir our batter to silky smooth perfection. She watches with glee as I pour our mixture into the pan and put it into the oven.

I think that my little gourmet has fully graduated into Little Kid-dom, because today, I caught her reaching up to the counter top to dip her tiny finger into my freshly poured brown butter glaze that was dripping over the sides of our freshly baked loaf.

Olivia's Pick--12 October 2008

This weekend, we revelled in cool, cloudless days that can only mean autumn in the northeast. Blessed with such weather, we experimented with having some "free fun." We packed our weekend with outdoor adventures that didn't cost a dime.

We took in some sun on the swings at our lovely beachside playground. We visited a nearby farm and "baa-ed" at the sheep and "moo-ed" at the cows, and even made friends with the affectionate barn cat. We invited over some friends to share dinner and were treated to a scooter stunt show, while the littler ones pushed wagons and collected leaves. Olivia assembled a beautiful bouquet of Maple and Dogwood leaves just for her Papa.I

t was a lovely weekend and Olivia had more than her share of fun. As for us parents, we were reminded of something Olivia knows intrinsically: The best fun, the richest experiences don't cost a penny. And the memories are priceless.

Olivia's Pick--5 October 2008

In a moment of respite from the rain and wind this weekend, we were blessed with a sunny afternoon. We took the opportunity to drive to a nearby farm for some good old-fashioned pumpkin picking. Olivia was in her glory! After struggling with a few "big ones" she decided the "small, tiny ones" were more easily managed. Together, we filled the wheelbarrow with our harvested treasures and went in search of further adventures.

We discovered a wonderful hayride over the picturesque grounds. We lost ourselves in an authentic corn maze. And we giggled at the cute, but decidedly "stinky," pigs. Finally, we purchased a bag of the freshest and most delicious apples we've had all year.

Olivia's joy over experiencing autumn on a real farm was infectious. And as we were piling into the car, sharing an apple, she said "Can we do it again?"

Olivia's Pick--28 September 2008

This weekend, Olivia was gifted with some new puzzles, manufactured by the fantastic Melissa & Doug. Made from real wood and painted with sweet, whimsical images, these puzzles have captivated her in a way I never would have imagined. They're sweet, simple and--best of all--safe.

Olivia's Pick--21 September 2008

This weekend, our little town hosted its annual Barbecue and Blues festival. The food was great, the weather was even better and the music was fantastic.

The best part, however, was our discovery that Olivia digs The Blues! She was a little wary at first, but after some first rate barbecue pulled pork she was hooked. We grooved out to some great music and she danced her little heart out!

Now, she's ready for some Muddy Waters or Buddy Guy. For the uninitiated little one, Taj Mahal's album for kids, "Shake Sugaree" is great introduction to The Blues. You're on your own for the pulled pork.

Olivia's Pick--14 September 2008

Last week, I lamented my little one's growing feet and how they were outpacing my shopping capabilities. Fortunately, we have been able to make some new footwear purchases since then, for all kinds of weather.

Olivia's new favorite? Her Wellies.We bought them in the midst of a total downpour, and so she wore them home. But when we got to our house, she didn't want to take them off! She wanted to show them to Papa, to our dog, and to all of her animals. She wanted to eat lunch in them. And then, she wanted to nap in them.

Somehow, with much coaxing, we managed to remove them before naptime. And she has resigned herself to not wearing them around the house.They remain, however, her go-to footwear for every outdoor activity. She hasn't worn them to the playground at the beach yet, but she does enjoy wearing them to the supermarket.

Olivia's Pick--7 September 2008

Olivia has found a new favorite book. A soft, sweet story by Karma Wilson, beautifully illustrated by Jane Chapman. We picked up the book, Bear Feels Scared, as a further study in the emotions which were brought on by her in depth experience of Peter and the Wolf. My goal was to deal with the emotion of fear, which she was experiencing and expressing through the Prokofiev classic.

This book, Bear Feels Scared, is simply wonderful in this capacity. With illustrations you feel like you could crawl into--which Olivia tries to do saying "I want to get in the book!"--this sweet story of a bear lost in an autumn storm, and his animal friends who form a search party to find him is, quite simply, heart warming.

The best part--the entire reason I chose this particular book, for this particular reason--is that, at the end, the search party locates Bear. They warm him with hugs and lead him home.

At the end, cuddled in a heap, warm and cozy with those he loves the most, Bear feels safe.

Olivia's Pick--31 August 2008

This week marks the symbolic passing of summer and launches us, feet first, into the promise and adventure of autumn. I anticipate that, this autumn, some of Olivia's favorite picks will be:

-Heading to an apple orchard to pick some of her favorite snacks.

-Running through the pumpkin patch, choosing all the pumpkins--big and small--that we will use to decorate our yard.-

Taking our dog to the beach, once the summer people have gone home and we have our piece of shoreline back to ourselves again.

-Going trick-or-treating for the very first time!

-Running and playing in the brisk autumn air, smiling through ruddy cheeks.

-Warming up with warm apple cider, from a nearby farm.

Olivia's Pick--24 August 2008

A few weeks ago, I told you about this awesome version of Prokofiev's classic, Peter and the Wolf, narrated by Sting. Honestly, it doesn't get much cooler. We've been listening a lot these days to Sir John Gielgud's version, which is dramatic and spectacular, even if it lacks the 80s rock factor.

Olivia has been having so much fun listening, that we decided to check out an illustrated book version, to enhance her experience. We found this lovely copy, with folktale style illustrations by Ian Beck.

The child is now obsessed.

Returning again and again to the page where "big, grey wolf" comes out of the forest, she will say "I'm scared," just as she does at the same point in the recorded symphony. But she can't get enough! She talks about Peter all day long, and tells me that she wants to go into the meadow with him to catch the wolf.

And so I must warn our poor, old Jack Russell terrier, lest Olivia decide to cast her in the role of "Wolf" in her first production of Prokofiev's childhood masterpiece.

Olivia's Pick--17 August 2008

Apart from my absurdly cute little nephew and his (only slightly less cute) parents, we are separated by hundreds and hundreds of miles from our extended families. Now that we have a family of our own, this is less fun than ever. We are, however, blessed with families who will travel, who will cross oceans and mountains to see us. Okay, to see Olivia.

But that's the point. She's been absolutely reveling in the revolving door of familial house guests we've had this summer, which is really bittersweet. I love to see her loving--and being loved by--her family. I love to see her building relationships that will endure through her life. But it's sad, because each visit comes to an end, one that's not punctuated with "See you next week."And while it's true, all these visits have made me a bit nostalgic for my own childhood summers filled with fun and family, I still think it's true that family is her pick this week. Love and laughter abounds and she is truly, deeply happy.

Olivia's Pick--10 August 2008

Olivia's always had a love of music. But recently, she's discovered the piano. We were visiting a relative who has a piano, and from the moment she was introduced, Olivia couldn't get enough! While not quite as skilled on the keys as one might hope for so prolific a player, she still thoroughly enjoyed herself. And though her fingers are still rather short, I honestly believe she shows promise...in a loud, banging sort of way.

So, it looks like we might need to invest in a piano of our own.

Or something.

Olivia's Pick--3 August 2008

We're in the midst of a mini baby boom over here. Last week saw the introduction of not one, but two sweet little angels into our midst. Olivia is loving every second of it. Between her brand new little cousin and her new friend, Olivia is getting a taste of what it's like to be The Big Kid.

And you know what? She's handling it great. She's gentle with the babies and likes to help make them comfortable. If her little cousin needs a teddy bear, Olivia's happy to bring it to him. Socks for the baby? She loves to assist in warming the tiniest of toes! Plus, it's good practice for putting on her own socks!It's sweet to watch her gain a new level of confidence and independence, while also seeing her behave in such a loving and compassionate way.

So, I think it's official: Olivia loves babies. Good thing we know of at least 3 or 4 more on the way!

Olivia's Pick--27 July 2008

Without a doubt, Olivia's pick for this week--maybe for the whole year--is Birthday Parties. Specifically those held in her honor. This weekend, the backyard was packed with kids indulging in our Messy Art Party. By the end of the afternoon, children were wandering around in sugar-induced hazes, caked with frosting and paint, diapers sagging from splashing in the pool. From the sunshine to the pinata to the cupcakes to the Pollock-rivaling masterpiece the kids created, the day was simply perfect. And everytime I caught Olivia's eye, she would meet my gaze with that smile that makes me melt.

A couple of months ago, we were considering not throwing a birthday party at all. She's young and won't remember, we rationalized. But then I spoke to a wise and wonderful Mama I know and she reminded me how few moments there are in life for us to truly celebrate, and that we should take advantage of each one.

Boy, am I glad we did.

Olivia's Pick--20 July 2008

Nothing says summer like bowl of fresh blueberries! Olivia can't get enough of these delicious treats. I'm loving that she's loving them because they're a really healthy food, full of antioxidants and vitamins. She'll eat them plain, in yogurt, over ice cream or in whole wheat pancakes. Yummy!

Olivia's Pick--13 July 2008

So this week's pick is more of a perpetual pick. Olivia's been loving her copy Puff the Magic Dragon for quite some time and her interest hasn't yet abated. Yes, Puff comes in book form now, with the original lyrics and some lovely new illustrations by Eric Puybaret. There's also a CD included with a new recording of the song. I'm actually enjoying this as much as she is!

Olivia's Pick--6 July 2008

It's summertime for sure and that means a lot of running through sprinklers! Olivia has been running mini marathons in the backyard, splashing her way through the afternoons. It's a fun, healthy activity for kids. And the bonus for Mamas is the great sleep the little ones get after a day of outdoor play. Splash on!

Olivia's Pick--28 July 2008

Likely spurred on by our "overly ambitious" most recent art project, lately, Olivia just can't get her fingers out of the finger paint! Finger painting is a wonderful way to spend a giggly half hour. I know, Mamas, I know what you're thinking. Finger paint?! What a mess! But these finger paints from Crayola are extremely washable, so cleaning up after is no stress. And for the true IronMom, here's a recipe for homemade finger paint. Let us all know how that goes...

Olivia's Pick--21 June 2008

An entrepreneurial Mama I know who owns the cutest baby store in town gave me a suggestion that has turned out to be Olivia's latest favorite: Ballet on YouTube. We're not big on TV around our house and Olivia is generally nonplused by it when she sees it. But show her a video of a twirling ballerina and she just can't get enough! Within moments, she's spinning, trying to point her toes and stretching for her best arabesque. It's a quick and cute distraction that's brought both of us a lot of smiles.

Olivia's Pick--15 June 2008

Maybe it is the influence of last week's pick that has inspired a creative surge in Olivia. She's creating masterpiece after masterpiece with her Do a Dot art set. Part marker, part paint set, Do a Dot is the hybrid of toddler art. And yes Mamas, the paint is totally washable.

Olivia's Pick--8 June 2008

Olivia has officially added Impressionism to her ever-growing list of interests, thanks to the lovely book, "Degas and the Little Dancer," written and illustrated by Lawrence Anholt. A sweet story of a young Parisian girl with big dreams, this book manages to introduce Degas and his artwork in a completely natural way, through the story. Unlike so much of what's out there these days, this book doesn't promise to make your kid the next Leonardo Da Vinci. Rather, it is a story worth reading in its own right, with the added bonus of an introduction to one of history's more celebrated artists.

We can't wait to read more in Anholt's Artists Books for Children series.

Olivia Pick--1 June 2008

Beach, beach, beach! She can't get enough of our pretty little piece of coastal heaven, and truthfully, I'm loving it too. But Girls of Summer need gear, right? Shade on the shore is a must, but you don't need to break the bank on a good beach umbrella. Castle building goes green with this Sand Play Set by Green Toys. Made from recycled plastic, this playset is manufactured, assembled and tested in the USA and is BPA and Pthalate-free. And no day at the beach is complete without snacks. This summer, skip the hot dogs and nachos and freeze some fresh fruit the night before, to keep it cooler, longer. Cut up watermelon, mango, pineapple or whatever your little one loves and freeze it. Then, pack it on ice for your day of fun in the sun! And Mamas, don't forget the sunscreen!

Olivia's Pick--25 May 2008

The sunshine is here, even if summer doesn't officially begin for a few more weeks. And Olivia can't get enough of just being outside. We spend hours sketching masterpieces, sculpting great works or just blowing bubbles. Before I know it, she'll be ready to ride with the big girls.

Olivia's Pick--18 May 2008

The latest gift from Grandma hit a homerun. Olivia won't go anywhere anymore without her fancy new handbag from Manhattan Toy. The bag comes complete with compact, cell phone, wallet, cash and credit cards and looks good with just about everything. Now she can pick up the tab at our favorite local Mexican Cantina. Gracias, Grandma!

Olivia's Pick--11 May 2008

Maybe because she's half French, and certainly because she's all kid, Olivia can't get enough this week of Bonjour Babar! This book has all six of the original Babar stories by Jean de Brunhoff. These stories are just as magical and unique as they were when I was a child, which means that I enjoy reading them to her, almost as much as she enjoys listening to them.

Olivia's Pick--4 May 2008

5/1/08
Being a fan of real music, we don't listen to very many kid's CDs around our house. But I have to say that Putumayo does a terrific job of producing albums that kids love and parents can stand. This week, Olivia is grooving out to Putumayo Kids World Playground. Hey, it's not The White Album, but we have time, right?