Autumn Kids

Numbers 2 and 3 aka Benici and Clara have celebrated their birthdays this past fall. In the past, I had written dedications to my little ones on their birthdays here on this blog. This year, however, I poured my energies into parties that have left me depleted of birthday mojo. But for archiving purposes, I have to report a few things about them.

Benicio: Five Observations Since He's Turned Five--1.I have come to the hard realization that he absolutely no longer can wear a size 2 in clothing. (He's had a few pieces that I really could not part with.) 2. He recently said, "I don't want to do it because I might not be the best." 3. I predict that he will be a Forensics champion. 4. He has precise and beautiful handwriting like my Dad. 5. On his birthday, he chose to go bowling and have lunch with Geoff on campus. The evening ended with a quiet birthday dinner at home. Neighborhood friends surprised him for cake and an impromptu dance party. Benicio cutting a serious rug encircled by a few friends and his sibs, what more could you ask for?

Clara: What can I say about my right hand girl? She came with me on a school tour today and I was reminded of how she came with me the first time I toured this house. She is composed, silent and wise beyond her years. However, when she wants to, she is startlingly assertive as in, "No Mommy, you're not sharing your mimi's!" or "It's not a-tay, Beecio!" She is now the chairman of the Nomenclature Bureau, naming her dolls- Tana, Meena. Also, there's the elusive "Mr. Battamuna." We don't know who this refers to. All of her names sound vaguely Japanese. We are thinking she might have a wheat aversion so we also have her diet seeming vaguely Japanese as well. She gets the elegant little fruit plate when the others get a little thicket of pasta. Or she gets a little octopus-shaped hot dog beached beside his wave of catsup while the others get PBJ pita wedges.

the photos: Benicio at his Suzuki lesson. He would have me note the little bug that remains perfectly balanced on his violin. Below: Clara could not be more thrilled to have her friend Kayla move here from Beantown. These two play so harmoniously, it's so sweet.