Life at the Lewchanin's

Back in School

2009-05-22T13:48:00.000-07:00

I have been so blessed to have had the opportunity to stay home full time with my babies! I wouldn't have wanted it any other way! I have loved it! My plan was to go back to my love of Nursing someday...well the time has come and I am ready to do something for ME! For the past few months I have been in a RN refresher course...required since I haven't worked in 5 years. I had class on Wednesday's and weekend Clinical! I have loved it! I absolutely LOVE being a nurse! My clinical's have been on a Renal Oncology unit...I went in with a very opened mind...and although have really enjoyed it, have realized I miss working with Babies! Spent this past weekend, my last, in Labor and Delivery/Nursery...So plan on going back to what I have always done and loved...

I am so glad I did it! I feel like I dusted off many of the cobwebs in my little brain...and found I did remember a lot! I was really nervous at first...but have loved the challenge. Peter and the kids have been so supportive of my decision! They have had tons of fun together on the weekends I have been at clinical! And I have returned home full filled and happy! The best part was how happy the kids (and Peter) were to see me! They did miss me!

I have now been looking for something in Georgia! Stay Tuned...I'll keep you posted on what I find!

Were Moving...

2009-05-11T14:06:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we were in Atlanta House hunting! CRAZY!! A few weeks ago Peter got a call and request from his prior company asking if he would consider returning to Atlanta! WHAT?! Bittersweet... Our move to D.C. was never permanent...but we thought it was definitely going to be longer than is was! The state of the economy helped make our decision much easier! I have been really sad about leaving this fabulous city! The kids, Peter and I have enjoyed living here so much!!! I am so glad we did it! I have the best friends in the world in Atlanta and have loved living there...so that will make the move easier...but I will miss D.C. SO MUCH!

Above are some of the things I have missed in Atlanta!! Our wonderful friends! Seeing the joy in all the kids eyes was priceless! We had so much fun with our short visit with them!

We had luck house hunting! I have fallen in love with older house's...our D.C. house was built in 1936! We found and feel in love with a fabulous house...and made an offer! It's older and needs work...but we really like it! I'll keep you posted!

Muffins with Mom

2009-05-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

I spent the after noon with this handsome little boy! What fun! After enjoying some delicious Muffins....we were showered with wonderful handmade (absolutely priceless) gifts! My favorite was a card created by Zach with a letter inside:

My Mother's name is Sandy and she is pretty. Her favorite colors are blue and orange and her favorite foods are chicken,rice, and beans. She likes to play with me and likes when I do silly things. She is unhappy when I am being mean. She laughs when I am being silly. Happy Mother's day. Love, Zach

Go Pumas!

2009-05-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

Mady has been taking recreational cheering! She is loving it!!! They had their first competition today! The girls were great!! They came in 2nd place! Go Pumas!

No School=Fun Day!

2009-05-01T13:43:00.000-07:00

The kids didn't have school today! We headed to open gym for lots of fun!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T13:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

Special Visitors

2009-04-10T13:10:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this sweet Baby!!!!

How lucky are we!!! Kelly, Ali, MoMo, Baby Jack, Marcella and Kenzie drove up from Atlanta to visit US! We all had a fabulous time...Stayed super busy! There's nothing like being together with friends!

D.C.'s 2009 Cherry Blossom's

2009-04-06T04:42:00.000-07:00

This blogs for you...Dad!! Sorry you missed being here! We spent a fabulous day at the Cherry Blossom Festival! The trees were gorgeous, as was the weather! Here's what D.C. looks like in bloom!!!!

Breakfast with Mady

2009-04-04T03:51:00.000-07:00

Zach and Mady LOVE eating Breakfast at school!! So every once in a while we make it over and they are happy little people!! Mady is helping teach Zach how to carry his tray...he will be there next year!!

Best Pizza in the world...

2009-03-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

Lombardi's nestled in Little Italy/SOHO is FABULOUS!! There is always a wait...so worth it!! Great atmosphere...fantabulous fresh pizza...WE love it!! Hey... it's even Rachel Ray's favorite...

The Naked Cowboy

2009-03-28T10:08:00.000-07:00

I just had to make my way over to this crazy guy and get some pictures for my friend Marcella! Mady was appalled that he was only in his underwear...she keep asking why MarMar would want to see him!! Too Funny!! This guy sure rakes in the $...people line up to have their picture taken with him !

He may have some competition soon...got me thinking...Peter????

Central Park

2009-03-28T09:52:00.000-07:00

The weather was wonderful! The kids absolutely love playing in Central Park...it's fabulous! Peter played with them and rock climbed. Me?...I sat and people watched...listened (well eavesdropped) on conversations New York Mommies were having, and watched my 3 favorite people play and have fun!

I was walking over to meet them when I keep hearing someone call Sandy...Sandy ...I of course ignored it...cuz I don't know anyone in New York! Well how about I run into a friend also their with her family!!! SMALL WORLD!!! Mady and Emily got to play together in Central park... how cool! Then off we went to have Beers and Shirley Temples!!!

I have no pictures of them because my camera battery died...so upset!

Mady enjoying the BIG Apple

2009-03-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

Watching the Ice skaters in Rockefeller Center

Window shopping on Park Ave

Times Square

Mady loves NYC! I can so see her living here!

Miss Independent on the BUS!

My little poser!

She loves riding in the cab...sans Car seat...it makes her feel so grown-up!

Waiting in line for a cab!

Ferris Wheel Ride

2009-03-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

The Toys R Us in Times Square has a Ferris wheel inside the store...we rode the Monopoly Cart!

NHL store

2009-03-28T09:11:00.000-07:00

Zach had a freaking blast in the NHL store! He wants to play Hockey so bad!!

The Sorcerer's Apprentice Filming in New York

2009-03-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

Abracadabra Amazing! Earlier in the afternoon we saw film and cast crew setting up right next door to our hotel. After we ate dinner we noticed all the lights and action...so we went to check it out! They were filming Nicholas Cage's new upcoming movie...it was awesome to see him and watch the filming!

Birthday Dinner

2009-03-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

We had a fabulous dinner and the best NY cheesecake ever...

Time for a break...

2009-03-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

we went back to our awesome room for a rest! We stayed in the Upper West side...love that neighborhood!

New York City...Police Museum

2009-03-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

Zach was so excited to visit this museum...

He was listening and watching all the different sirens on the ceiling!

Mady and Peters Mug shots...

Checking out the toilet in the jail cell...

Zach was really nervous about the jail cell...(notice he's not in the picture) he thought he was going to be locked in...It was So Very Funny!

"Papa would like this Momma"...Zach keep saying!

Old school patty wagon...Zack loved it!

Staten Island Ferry

2009-03-27T06:50:00.000-07:00

This Girl LOVES NYC!!

The Birthday Boy(and Me)!!

Brooklyn Bridge

fabulous views from our ferry ride...

Ellis Island

Police Boat

Daddy's Birthday Weekend...

2009-03-27T06:21:00.000-07:00

Yes! We are in New York City!!!!

LOVE THIS CITY!!!

On the Train from D.C. to NYC...on Daddy's Birthday!!

ZACH loves the Train!

Mady and Mommy on the train...this litttle girl was awake and dressed at 3:30 a.m. So excited about the trip! We are celebrating Peter...the most amazing daddy and Hubby...let the fun begin...

Happy Birthday Daddy!!!

2009-03-26T06:10:00.000-07:00

We surprised Daddy with a early Birthday wish when he got home tonight! His favorite...Carrot Cake!

Spark Lab Fun

2009-03-26T05:13:00.000-07:00

I spent the day with these two kiddos at the Spark Lab...part of the American History Museum! What a fun day!

Monkeying Around

2009-03-25T05:02:00.000-07:00

Spring Break fun...

COYOTE

2009-03-24T04:25:00.000-07:00

COYOTE

A Trickster Tale From The American Southwest

by Gerald McDermont

Starring

Madyson Lewchanin

as CROW

Finally a little warm in the air...

2009-03-23T04:16:00.000-07:00

Can I tell you how much I appreciate warm temps after a cold winter!!!! Welcome Spring!! We headed over to our favorite park after school today!

The kids all screamed and ran to check out the cement mixer up close!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-22T14:25:00.000-07:00

Once again we were visited last night by those mischievous sneaky little Leprechauns!! They sneak in on St Patrick's Day night and make messes and play tricks on us! I caught a picture of the kids as they were running down stairs screaming telling all the pranks and messes they made in their rooms, then they saw the dining room! All the chairs were upside down! The good news is that they leave chocolate coins (well this year it was Hershey kisses and mini snickers...because Mommy couldn't find gold chocolate coins at the last minute)! They also made our milk green and toilet water green!

Zach sporting his Rugby shirt Daddy

brought him home from Ireland a few years ago!

My little Leprechauns!!!!!

Green Cake

2009-03-22T05:36:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is St Patricks Day! So, after school today the kids and I made a special cake! They did a fabulous job! It looked and tasted great!

Astronaults

2009-03-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

Zach and his friends have been learning about Space! I spend once a month with these great kids! It was fun coming up with ideas for them today! We are astronauts today! We made a rocket and decorated it, Astronauts helmets(out of milk jugs), built a fruit rocket and blasted it off with a count down and a spray of ready whip (kids loved this)!!! After they made their helmets we paraded around to the other classes...they looked adorable!! What a BLAST we all had today!!

Astronaut Zach!

Fruit Rocket!

The Crew!

Making our Helmets!

Fun in our awesome rocket!

Smile

2009-03-08T05:05:00.000-07:00

Oh... Happy Day Lunch!

what they say about me...

2009-03-04T10:14:00.000-08:00

1. What is something Momma always says to you?
I Love You!

I Love You!

2. What makes Momma happy?
Hugs and Kisses

When we listen

3. What makes Momma sad?
Not being good

When Daddy is not home

4. How does Momma make you laugh?
Being Funny

When your silly

5. What was your Momma like as a child?
You were like Mady

I wasn't there, but you were pretty!

6. How old is your mom?
Your a Teenager

31

7. How tall is your mom?
Looks at me from toe to head...about this tall(as he's measuring with his hands)

3 3/4 ft

8. What is your Momma's favorite thing to do?
Play with me

Cook

9. What does she do when you aren't around?
Clean

Clean

10. What is your Momma really good at?
Everything

Cooking

11. What is she not really good at?
Shoveling snow like Daddy

Your good at everything

12. What does your Momma do as a job?
Helping People

You don't have a job

13. What is her favorite food?
Noodles

Curly Mac

14. What makes you proud of your Mom?
When you clean up my room and Mady's room

That your my Momma(as she hugs me) :)

15. If she were a cartoon character, who would she be?
Nurse Flood (from Fireman Sam)

Miss. Piggy

16. What do you and your Mom do together?
Play, Cook and go to the park

We do crafts

17. How are you and your Momma the same?
We have Brown and Brown shirts on...

We both have Brown hair

18. How are you and your Momma different?
I am a Boy and you are a Girl

That I'm 6, and your not!

19. How do you know your Mom loves you?
Lays with me and reads me books at nighttime

You let me have playdates with my friends, and you let me stay up late, and you give me special bedtime kisses!

I sat with Zach and Mady and asked them each of these questions...these were their answers...

Round 2

2009-03-04T08:02:00.000-08:00

Zach and I picked Mady up at school this afternoon...and the first thing out of her mouth was "CAN WE GO SLEDDING?"

So we came home had a snack, changed and back out to play in the snow!

Mady and Melany...ready to go!

Zach decided the park needed to be shoveled...this little stinker...shoveled the entire time!

I love this picture! Mady LOVES sledding! She was a Happy girl today! How can fresh snow not make you Happy?

Say Cheese Zach!!

5 inches of Snow + 2 Hour School Delay = Priceless Fun!

2009-03-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

It's 7am and I open the front door to this! Yes, I am heading out...we have no coffe in our house! Off to the Broad Branch Market ...thank Goodness for this place...

It's 8am...and off we go to play in the snow! The kids are so excited!

The NOT so fun part of SNOW!!

We were the first ones out this morning...

Daddy joined us for some fun, too!

SNOW ANGELS!!

LOVE THIS PICTURE of my boys!

WEEEEEEEEE!!!

Now we off to get ready for School and Work!

National Gallery of Art

2009-03-02T04:35:00.000-08:00

We are very lucky to live in such an amazing city with so much to do! We are ALWAYS on the go here with the kids...we want to take in as much as we can while we live here. We have only been one place that the kids weren't very found of...in fact, I believe their exact words were"THIS PLACE IS BORING" , the last time we took them. But, today we went again! Peter and I wanted to see Robert Franks The Americans exhibition. I love photography art. Art museums are such a peaceful place...too me! The kids were really well behaved and actually enjoyed themselves this time! It was a great exhibition!

So, yes...as we walked out of the museum...I had the B&W photography artistic bug... Hey...I can pretend(for a very short lived moment) that I am Robert Frank...

I NEVER get tired of the sites in this city...OUR NATIONS CAPITOL... I still can't believe we live here!

the best part about today...Coffee and Apple Tart

2009-03-01T06:44:00.000-08:00

So today was one of those days!!! You know we all have them...so don't act like you don't!! I woke up...still not feeling good(this is the never ending virus), very annoyed at everyone and everything! Just to look at you would have annoyed me:) Much less adding 2 kids, that apparently either had a case of what I had...but for some reason my children don't have the ability (like humans) to just say...I am having a bad day, and need my space....OR...realized I had a short fuse and wanted to see what they could do to make me explode! This is horrible to even say...but, I will...just the mere sight of these creatures got to me today!

Usually, Peter...or I...if he is having one of these days, can balance each other out...but today was not that kind of day!

I know my not feeling good just made it so much worse...a person can only take so much loudness, complaining, whining, annoyingness(yes..it's a word)!

Peter offered to take them for a while...but, I did feel like getting out of the house would maybe help my mood...NOPE!

We had a miserable quick lunch out ...and then off to IKEA. This old, small house has minuscule closets...and the portable hanging closet we have collapsed the other day!

I walked in to IKEA...still listening to the unhappiness...when I saw a slice of heaven(well..o.k. that is an exaggeration) IKEAS kid area!!!!!! Peter had taken Zach to the potty and I had already made my way over to the line...THERE IS A GOD!! He asked what I was doing..."These 2 are going in here" We then locked eyes and SMILED!! Then these two creatures of mine stared up at me confused!! Zach was of course excited...Mady not so much "I don't want to go in THERE"! I don't care...I thought!

They have a 1 hour limit! After dropping them off we headed to see if they had what we needed...NO LUCK! Peter HATES crowds and shopping(or browsing)! But, it had only been 5 minutes of peace and quite and we weren't ready to go back to that crazy life! He said "You know I would never spend an hour in here, but today we will..want to go have a coffee and dessert" Does a bear shit in the woods? We sat together and enjoyed our coffee and dessert...kid free! Thanks IKEA!!

When we picked them up I was refreshed and actually happy to see them...for a Milli-second...here we go again...

my sweet Mady

2009-02-27T04:35:00.000-08:00

So...on Thursday I finally lost the battle with the GERMS! And boy did I...I keep telling myself...I am not getting sick...I'm fine!! NOPE! It hit me like a Freight Train...being a sick Mommy SUCKS! I have never experienced having such a high temp (104.5)...I was "OUT of ORDER"!! It took everything I had to stay a float...

I woke up the next morning and on the nightstand was this letter and gift from Mady! What a wonderful surprise!! The bracelet is actually beautiful! Her Daddy helped her make it...so impressive! Mady is such a sweet thoughtful little girl...

Hockey Game

2009-02-22T15:16:00.000-08:00

We had a great Sunday afternoon watching our Washington Capitals! They played the Penguins and...we WON!!

Bowling Fun

2009-02-21T14:33:00.000-08:00

Mady has been wanting to go bowling together ever since she went to a friends Bowling Bday Party! So today we went! What a BLAST!!! If the kids weren't bowling they were getting their groove on!!

...I will say I almost fell over when I went to pay and the kid told me I owed $55.00!!!!! For 1 game of bowling and 4 shoe rentals!! My gosh!! That doesn't count the $6.50 I had just paid the cute little server who brought us a Diet Coke and a Sprite!! Thank Goodness we went with full tummies and didn't have to order food!!

Valentine's Day Surprise

2009-02-14T11:31:00.000-08:00

Peter surprised us and booked a Family Getaway for Valentine's Weekend! Just one of the many reasons I love that Man...He is so spontaneous and always full of fun travel surprises...LUCKY US!! Mady, Zach, and I were thrilled! We headed up to Seven Springs Resort.

The Resort was extraordinary!!! Our days were full of fun skiing and our evenings were full of tons of fun playing mini-golf, swimming (in the indoor pool), playing pool, fun in the arcade! We didn't have time to go bowling, or roller skate! Maybe next time!

We had a super fun Valentine's Weekend...Thanks Daddy!!!

Jump Rope for Heart

2009-02-12T04:14:00.000-08:00

I spent the day today with Mady and an entire Gym full of kiddos ready for some Jumping Fun!

Mady came home from school a few weeks ago telling me she need "5 million hundred dollars"! Really? For what I asked!! "To help people with sick hearts...Mommy" she said with such a matter of fact serious tone!!

This was her first fundraiser...and she was so excited about participating in it! She wanted to immediately start raising money! She wanted me to help her design her own website and send it to everyone I knew asking for money! So...We sat and she designed(all on her own) a great page and stated her cause "I'm Jumping to help people with sick hearts...give some money if you can. Thank You for helping me raise money!" Madyson

I have a hard time asking people for money...especially in this economy! So...I DID NOT...send it to anyone, but shh...she doesn't know that!! Peter and I donated! We are so proud of Mady!

She did a fabulous job jumping!!!

She danced and cheered her group on while they jumped!!!!

CHICKEN NUGGETS??!!??

2009-02-11T15:40:00.000-08:00

Today two packages came in the mail...one for Mady and one for Zach! As hard as it was Zach, he agreed NOT to open the packages until Mady was also home with us...

The second we picked Mady up from school Zach told her about the special delivery from the mailman...and "It's from Papa" yelled Zach!

They walked in and opened their packages...Zach had his torn open in a Milli-second! I was in the kitchen getting sissors when I hear him yell..."Papa sent me CHICKEN NUGGETS???!!!??? It was so funny he really thought that's what it was...and I decided to let him believe it for as long as I could...seriously it was hilarious!

Mady opened her package, then opened the box, and in it found her special Valentine! All the while Zach was sitting staring at his Tyson Chicken box talking endlessly about the fact that Papa is so silly to send him nuggets, while watching his sister open her box and pull out chocolates. When he saw Mady's chocolates he said "Mannee you got chocolate?"...she told him to open the nugget box...he finally found the chocolates...

I can't stop laughing!!!

Warmer temps

2009-02-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

We had some fabulous warmer weather this weekend! When the weather is nice(especially after weeks of frigid temps) the city has such a vibrant feel...everyone is out!! I could just sit on a corner cafe table and people watch! We just had to head down to the Mall and play! The sun felt so good on my skin! Although we still have several more weeks of winter...according to a certain little Groundhog, today made me realize it's time for me to start exercising and get rid of this winter hibernation weight! Spring will be here before I know it and clothes aren't as forgiving...

Liberty Mountain

2009-01-31T14:28:00.000-08:00

Just a short drive from our house(about 1 hour) is Liberty Mountain! We spent the day there enjoying the slopes for the second time this month! Mady has really taken to the sport...and is getting pretty darn good at it! She never fell and at one point passed Peter and headed down an intermediate slope...Go Mady! Zach loves it, but doesn't have the leg strength to ski long alone, so he ski's with me or Peter...and yells "Go Faster!!!!" the entire way down!!!

Mady loved the quad lifts! I love that our kids enjoy skiing as much as we do! What a fun family day!

Sledding

2009-01-27T14:07:00.000-08:00

The kids and I have been anxisiously awaiting our first snowfall...WHY? Sledding!! We have an awesome hill across from our house and have been waiting and waiting to use our new sleds!

After school we hit the hill...for 2 1/2 hours! What a blast!

My little helper

2009-01-27T13:55:00.000-08:00

After walking Mady to school we came home and Zach said "Mommy I will shovel the walkway for you"!

First D.C. SnowFall

2009-01-27T13:37:00.000-08:00

We woke up to a winter wonderland...FINALLY!! We have been waiting and waiting! We walked Mady to school in the snow! Snow is so magical...love it!!

Mady's Style

2009-01-25T13:20:00.000-08:00

My Mady has always had a mind of her own! We can really butt heads when it comes to her wardrobe...I want to dress her all cute and girlie...she wants to be unique! So, I have decided it's so not worth the battle! One of her favorite outfits is jeans and a skirt over top! Today she did match...but that doesn't always happen! This drives me crazy! She is such a free spirit...doesn't care what others think...NOT a follower...This I love!! She should would have loved living in the 70's...my little flower child! Maybe some day she will be a famous fashion designer...

Oh my...

2009-01-22T11:48:00.000-08:00

I walked down to the basement today and saw this written on Mady's board!

"Zachary is the worst boy in the world"... Mady is always writing notes everywhere...on paper taped all around. the house, on her board, post its, ...until today they have always been sweet kind words. She was REALLY mad at him yesterday... I had to laugh!

Proud to be an American!!!

2009-01-20T05:04:00.000-08:00

Today we braved the crowds and went down to the Nation Mall! I am so proud to be an American! I am Proud have the opportunity to live in our Nation's Capitol...and have my children experience this lifestyle! Life is too short and I am so glad we made this move and have experienced this fabulous city!!! Memories my children and I will NEVER forget! This is a Historical Day! The 44th President will soon be sworn in, and I think it's awesome that we live here in D.C.! I wanted my children to see first hand what an Inauguration is like! REGARDLESS of MY political views...I took this an as excellent teaching opportunity! I am very open minded and want to teach that to my children...to always be respectful of others beliefs and views...EVEN if don't agree!!! It is a Historical Day! That's what makes The United States of AMERICA so GREAT!!!! God Bless our New President!!!!

The Potomac River ...Frozen!

It was so cold walking along the River!!

The Jefferson Memorial across from the Tidal Basin...also Frozen!

Mady has learned all about MLK in school this past week...so we took her to see his Memorial .

Police Motorcades were all over...Wonder who was in those Cars??

A Wreath placed at the MLK Memorial

This city is so beautiful!

Zach and Mady...check out the snow clouds coming in...

I never get tired of seeing them run along the mall...and the views around us!

Mady takes the stage!

The National Mall...Large T.V. screens lined the Mall from the Capitol to the Washington Monument!

This as close as we could get to the Capitol! I have never seen so many people! It was crazy! There was such an enthusiastic crowd...they were playing the concert from Sunday on the Jumbo T.V.'s! Music filled the air, and people sang along!

News Room were set up all along the National Mall...Anderson Cooper was reporting LIVE.

I have NEVER seen so many Potty's!!!!!

Daddy, Mady, and Zach playing Chase!!

What a Beautiful site!!

I am so PROUD of our MILITARY Men and Women!!!!

Dentist Visit

2009-01-19T16:08:00.000-08:00

Mady and Zach had a visit with their Dentist this morning!! I am proud to report...NO CAVITIES!!! YIPPEE!! Thus far...neither one has ever had one, hope it stays like that!! The did fabulous!! Mady has her six year molars(all 4) almost completely out!! After the Dentist visit we headed off to the Diner...have to celebrate...with MILKSHAKES!!!

The Best Breakfast EVER!!

2009-01-18T15:13:00.000-08:00

This morning Mady and her Daddy braved the extremely frigid temps and walked 2 blocks to the Bakery for the BEST donuts EVER!! Papa finally tried the fried donut smothered in delicious dark chocolate!!!! It was heavenly!!

Then Peter and I got ready and went skiing for the day...Papa stayed home with Mady and Zach!! What a treat!! Mady and Zach had a blast with their Papa!! And Peter and I enjoyed a wonderful day together, without kids, IT WAS A FABULOUS DAY!!!

A special treat...for Mommy!

2009-01-16T15:32:00.000-08:00

Papa is in town visiting...he sure is enjoying his retirement!! This morning HE braved the extreme cold and walked Mady to school, while Zach and I sat near the cozy fire!!

Kids Night

2009-01-13T04:28:00.001-08:00

This southern girl LOVES Chick-fil-A!! And, SURPRISE, SURPRISE...so do my kids!! In, Atlanta we had a new Chick-fil-A across the street from our sub-division! After moving here I sadly learned there are NO Chick-fil-A's in D.C.!!! WHAT!! I did find one in Maryland...just a few short miles from our home...so I didn't call the moving truck to take me back to Atlanta!!!

One day while chatting with a friend, a D.C. Native, I learned she also LOVES this place!! We instantly BONDED!! Tuesday is KIDS NIGHT! Tonight Mary and I bundled up the kids and went to dinner!! The kids had a blast with the Clowns and Mary and I actually enjoyed a nice...Yummy...dinner!!

This Chick-fil-A is in the city, so it is small and has no play area! It still works for ME!! I will confess that every once in a while I will drive to Virgina(30 miles) to the new one...that stands alone and has a play area!!

Bye Bye Poconos

2009-01-03T12:44:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up and had coffee and watched the sun come up! what a beautiful site!! I had an absolutely fabulous time here with my 3 favorite people in the whole world!! Til next year!!!!

Good Times!

2009-01-02T16:12:00.000-08:00

Mady has learned so much in ski school! Today she didn't go to ski school...but skied with us all day!!! We are so proud of her!!!

Dinner

2009-01-01T16:40:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous day skiing!! We found a great place for dinner...we were all STARVING and super tired!! And we had a super silly girl on our hands!!!

FYI!! She ate every last crumb of THAT HUGE Burger!!! That's my GIRL!!!!!!!

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-12-31T14:24:00.000-08:00

Chocolate + Graham Cracker's+ Marshmallows=SMORES!!!!!!

After a great day on the slopes we celebrated New Years Eve with our children!! We did trick them into thinking they stayed up until mid-night! Thank Goodness they can't tell time...YET!!!! We did an entire count-down to mid-night...at 8PM!!!!!

Mady and Daddy roasting marshmallow's!

YUMMO!!

Zach didn't like the SMORE"S...he said they were SLIMMY!! Guess who ate his? ME!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! YA"LL!!!!

Ski School

2008-12-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

Mady + Zach +Ski School x 3 Days=Happy Mommy and Daddy!! And some alone adult ski time!!!

Mady do you like it? THUMBS UP!!!

My little man!!!

They LOVED ski school! So did we! Seriously they learned A LOT!! Especially Mady!

Family Ski Trip...YIPPEE!!!

2008-12-30T12:10:00.000-08:00

WERE HERE!!!!!! While Daddy checks in...we stretch our legs and the kids are thrilled to see snow!

All Bundled up and ready for an evening of Tubing!

Zach is so excited about Tubing!

Tubing hill...it's so much higher than this picture makes it seem!

Our Little Dare Devil!

All of us have been so looking forward to our annual ski trip! WE ARE HERE!! Although we are a little sad not to be joined this year by our great friends, we are looking forward to time alone with just our Family! After checking in and getting settled we heading out to go Tubing... A First for us all. YIPPEE! When we got there and Mady saw the tubing hill and how fast everyone was coming down the hill...she quickly changed her mind! After we already paid for her ticket...gotta love THAT!

Peter and I went skiing in Colorado(with his cousins) 11 years ago and fell in love with the sport and have truly enjoyed making it our annual winter trip! Since we want our kids to LOVE it as much as we do...we wanted this to be a FUN memory! So...we didn't force the issue and make her try it...it was our first day of many more here and we really wanted her to ski in the morning! Zach on the other hand couldn't get enough of it!!! Peter and I were both actually a little nervous ourselves...you FLY down that hill!

After 2 hours of tubing...we were ready to leave! When of course guess who now wants to try it! YUP...Mady! So, I decide to take her when we see a rider coming down the hill...he never stopped...keep going through the safety net...then down the step hill full of rocks...OUCH! Can I tell you how fast that little girl said..."That's EXACTLY why I didn't want to do it...It's dangerous"!!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-29T17:16:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful Christmas we had!! Peter and I stayed up all night and survived the 12 hour drive down, while Mady and Zach snoozed! We had so much fun spending time together with our family and friends! We welcomed the warm Florida weather! They kids even made it down to play on the beach!! I had a so much fun cooking Christmas dinner with my Dad...even taught the "Master Chef" some new cooking tips!! Christmas Eve at Grandma'

Zach and Mady with Grandpa and Grandma on Christmas Eve!

Zach and Mady with Great Grandpa and Great Grandma Deline!

Nick helping Zach play the piano on Christmas Eve!

Mady loves Aidan!!

Getting ready for Santa and his Reindeer(Mady made special reindeer food)

Sprinkling the reindeer food with magic glitter to help them find Papa's house! While they were doing that, Peter and I saw a flashing red light in the sky! When we showed the kids...they stared into the sky...thought it was Rudolph's nose...and were ready to go in and get in bed...QUICK!

Papa and Zach

Cousins

Mady LOVES her new Ruthie doll!

Zach and his Helmet Hero's! Him and Ethan had so much fun playing!

Baby Aidan with his Bee Bop Band drumstick....

The Monkeys eating Bananas!

I love my Ethan bug!!

Me and Kyle...How handsome is he???

Nick, Zack, Ethan, and Kyle!

The CUTEST baby in the whole world!!!!!

Our trip ended with lunch at our favorite seafood restaurant...we made the LONG trip safely home! Well worth it! Spending time with Family made Christmas absolutely wonderful!!

Happy Birthday Zach!

2008-12-20T13:09:00.000-08:00

SURPRISE!

Mady set the table...all by herself!

Today Zachary turned 4!!!!!! We celebrated his Birthday with...Of course a Fireman theme party!! Mady and I decorated the basement and surprised Zach! He was so happy all day! What a fun time we all had!!! Mady was "in charge" of the party! She started by having everyone color, then gave them all Firetruck tattoos! The pin the Hat on spot the fire dog was a huge hit!! So was playing in the Firetruck Tent!! After eating pizza, pringles, and grapes (Zach's menu choice) we had yummy cupcakes! Happy Birthday Handsome!!

Zach's School Surprise

2008-12-19T14:10:00.000-08:00

Papa, Mady and I surprised Zach at his class Christmas party...with BIRTHDAY cupcakes!!!! He was so excited!! Mady was too...she wanted to be there for her brother! We picked her up early and she was so excited to help out at his Christmas party!!

Pestinos

2008-12-18T08:03:00.000-08:00

One of my childhood Christmas memories is of my Mom making Pestinos! A traditional Spanish holiday pastry! They are a more savory dessert...ingredients are..flour, white wine, and olive oil seasoned with lemon and anise! Then you fry them and...drizzle with honey and sprinkle with powdered sugar...kinda like a donut! I haven't had one in over 20 years! So I researched for a recipe and wanted to attempt to make some. The smell as I made them almost made me cry...as I remembered my Mom making these every Christmas!

Want some Helen???????? They are so freaking YUMMO!!! My Dad and I ate the entire batch in 2 days!!! I'll make more on Christmas!

Fun with Mady's Class

2008-12-18T03:21:00.000-08:00

I spent the afternoon with Madyson's new kindergarten class! Her class was separated in groups of 4 into each of the other kindergarten classes. Mrs. Hill's leg injury is very serious and we are unsure of her return! I was so sad for Mady and all her classmates to have to go through this huge change...BUT she has adjusted so well!! MRS. ALLEN IS FABULOUS!!!!!!! And I love her new class!! These are her friends from Mrs. Hill's class... they sit together! Jenna, Luke, Madyson and Doug! Mady now goes by Madyson in her new class...she has a Maddie in ther too!

The Masterpieces!

WE LOVE MRS. ALLEN!!!

Each kiddo got to decorate their own individual Gingerbread house!! I had a blast with this wonderful project! When Mady brought hers home Zach said it could be the outhouse for our Gingerbread house!!!

Pizza Party!! I loved spending the day with these kiddos!! Especially since Zach was home with his Papa!!

Letters To Santa

2008-12-17T08:07:00.000-08:00

Tonight the kids wrote their letter to Santa!!

Mini Ballet Recidal

2008-12-16T04:27:00.000-08:00

Tonight, Papa, Zach, Daddy and I, enjoyed watching Mady...her ballet class held a mini recital! She loves Ballet! Then we headed home to celebrate her! Her request for dinner...my homemade curly mac-n-cheese, and Italian chicken cutlets...one of her favorite meals!!

Outdoor Lights

2008-12-15T04:05:00.000-08:00

We Finally got around to putting up some outdoor Christmas lights!

Baltimore with Papa

2008-12-14T19:29:00.000-08:00

Papa, Zach, and Mady

The potty!!

We took Papa Pete to Baltimore to visit the Harbour and tour the 4 ships docked! We had a great day! The submarine was my favorite! Mady and Zach had so much fun there with Papa! The beds were a HUGE hit and of course the potty!!

Navy beds...Papa used to sleep on beds just like this!

Beds on the USS Constitution...the kids loved these!!

Captain Mady!

Mount Vernon

2008-12-14T04:38:00.000-08:00

Peter and I took the kids to Mount Vernon today!! What a beautiful place! I remember visiting this amazing place as a little girl! It was so much fun sharing this experience with the kids. They REALLY enjoyed it!! They love seeing how people lived in the "OLD DAYS"!!

What a beautiful view!

George Washington used to have a Christmas Camel every year! This little guy is 11 months old! So adorable...Zach and I loved petting him...He had the worse stinky breathe EVER!!!

Now this is a Ginger bread house!!! The White House pastry Chef made this Masterpiece! He was there and we got to meet him! I told him his was nice, but he should come over and see ours!! He didn't have a good sense of humor!! Oh Well...he has a great artistic ability!!

The kids checking out the Fire place and Chimney that Santa used to come down!! This cracked me up!!!

One of Mady's favorite things... "I wish we could still ride in these Momma"!!!!!!!!!! she said!!!

I really love this Kitchen...this was my favorite part of my visit as a little girl!

What an amazing back yard!!

The kids LOVED the Necessary! Can you imagine...!!???!! So thankful for indoor plumbing and privacy!! Although...I bet Cousin Christy would like one of these for the twin Girls and Brayden!! A potty party!!!!

What a fun fun family Day!!!!

Firetrucks everywhere...

2008-12-14T04:16:00.000-08:00

Zach was so excited today...as we walked home from dropping Mady off at school he noticed a firetruck on our street, then another, and another. Unfortunately, or neighbor had a fire in her basement, she was o.k.! Our entire street was lined with firetrucks and Zach sat outside and watch in amazement as the firefighters worked furiously to put out the fire! What an exciting day!

Family Ornament Painting Night

2008-12-13T05:48:00.000-08:00

Tonight we had a fabulously fun family night! We sat by a cozy fire, giggled a lot, and painted ornaments for our Christmas tree!

Advent Day 12

2008-12-12T04:23:00.000-08:00

We went to watch the Washington Capitals play tonight!!!! We all love watching Hockey...it's so exciting! We WON!!

We played the Ottawa Senators...Cousin Becky's favorite team!! We thought about her, Jake and Lucas...wish they were with us!!!

Advent Day ...Canned Food Drive

2008-12-11T05:54:00.000-08:00

After explaining to the kids the reason behind this food drive, I told them to go to our pantry and put things for us to share with others in the bag! Funny how SO many
veggies got donated!!

Advent day

2008-12-10T03:34:00.000-08:00

One of Mady's ideas for our advent chain was to invite one of her "after school care" friends over for a play date! Her good friend Brooke came over today! We baked cookies and the girls played, played, and played! They had a great afternoon!

Advent Day 9

2008-12-09T17:57:00.000-08:00

After school today the kids and I baked some cookies! Then the kids make homemade Christmas cards for our neighbor, she lives alone next door to us! The kids were so excited to walk over and give her their cards and goodies! They also told her all about how they "HAVE TO" to nice things for others during Christmas and how we included her in our Advent Chain! She as so delighted and so thankful!

Advent Day 8

2008-12-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

Today Mady had the day off from school...Parent/Teacher Conferences! So, this morning I asked the kids what they wanted to do from our Advent Chain! " WE want to make our GINGERBREAD HOUSE"!!!! Mady made the frosting!

Zach, as you will see couldn't STOP tasting it!!! He keep saying "This is SO good"!!

TA DA!!!!!!!!!

Mady keep telling Zach to STOP eating the candy, other than that they worked so well on this project together!!! They hardly had any help from Mommy!! While the walls dried we played games! I LOVE our GINGERBREAD HOUSE!!!!

Zach cracks me up! When they were finished he said "What do we do wit it now?" I said we'll put it on the counter for a beautiful Christmas decoration. "That's NO fun", he said and ran off!! Then this morning I caught him on the counter trying to pry off a piece of candy...How long do you think our house will be adorned with candy?

Advent Day 7...Merriment in Georgetown

2008-12-07T14:52:00.000-08:00

Today we spent the afternoon in Georgetown with our friends, Eileen, Kevin, Julia and Caroline at the First Annual Merriment Christmas in Georgetown! Although, it was very cold and very windy...we had a lovely time! We saw Santa, listened to Carolers, enjoyed the beautiful Christmas decorations, sipped on Hot Chocolate, made a stop by Santa's workshop and made ornaments, and spent a fun afternoon with friends! Mady and Zach visit with Santa! Mady asked for Ruthie and Zach wants a Firetruck!

Mady looks so short!!

Christmas Carolers!

Mady gets a Bracelet!

Mady and the Sugar Plum Fairy!

The Sugar Plum Fairy with Caroline, Mady and Julia!

At the Craft table! Did you notice Zach? NOPE!! He said all the stuff was for GIRLS!!!!

Walking back to our car, along the Georgetown waterfront...it was freezing cold!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Advent Day 6...Oh Christmas Tree!

2008-12-06T04:08:00.000-08:00

Today was a Lewchanin Family 1st! We drove out to Homestead Farm in Maryland
to choose and CUT our Own Christmas TREE!!!!! The boy's going to get a saw!

So many TRESS!!

Homestead Farm!

It was VERY cold! Perfect weather for Tree Picking!!

THIS IS IT!!!!! I gave the kids total control over picking our 2008 Family Tree! Not an easy feat for my type A personality! Only rules...remember it has to fit in our small living room!!

The kids had a blast running around!

The leader of the group! And ultimate decision maker...she did a fabulous job!

Daddy had a few helpers!

TIMBER!

Mady wanted to take my picture...too! I look like Rudolph...my nose was soooo cold!

Any away we go!

I ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY, LOVED, LOVED, LOVED THIS FAMILY ADVENTURE!!!

While Mady and I stayed in the car trying to defrost...Daddy and Zach went in to pay and came out with treats!!! Warm Apple Cider and Caramel Apples! Could today get any better? YES!

The snacks were YUMMO! A perfect end to our day on the farm!! Thanks Daddy!

We drove home so excited not only because we were going to decorate our tree, but because it started snowing!!!!! Absolutely MAGICAL! As we decorated our tree by a cozy fire, listening to Christmas music, watching the delight in the kids eyes as they pulled out all the ornaments...we watched the snow fall outside!!!!

Every year since Mady was born, I have purchased a special ornament for the kids...usually one that reminds me of something special about them for that year, and I write them a letter, in it I write about their past year, why they are so special to me, and why I chose that ornament for them. One of my favorite thing this time of year is opening the ornaments and re-reading each letter! One day, I plan on giving each of them a box full of their special ornaments and letters to decorate their own tree!

Our Beautiful Tree!

Advent Day 5...Toy Drive

2008-12-05T09:56:00.000-08:00

Zachary's pre-school is participating in a toy drive. On Wednesday of this week we saw they had put of the tree and choices of child and age. I was actually subbing for his teacher today and since Mady was at a friends playing, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to teach and share this experience with Zachary!

We went over to the tree to make a selection. I asked Zach if he wanted to buy for a girl or boy! Boy, 5 years old...it was! I explained to Zach that this little boy and his family were not as lucky as we are and we are helping them have a Happy Christmas! To which he replied"Why doesn't he just ask Santa if his Mommy and Daddy don't have extra money"? LOVE the innocence of CHILDREN!!

We then headed over to the toy store after explaining this was about the little boy we were buying for NOT for us! I asked him what he thought he wanted to buy for him. Zach immediately said"I know exactly what he will love, Mommy...A race car!!!"

We went into Child's Play and Zach picked his toy, a very cool race car. Zach has one and it is a huge hit at our house! After playing for a few minutes with all the cool display toys...we paid and we left WITHOUT a meltdown!

Today we are going to school and taking our gift in! Zach has keep the race car in his room for 2 days. I knew there might be a chance he would open this box...he didn't! I told him to go get his toy for the little Boy...here he is bringing it down!

And looking at it!!! Love this picture!

Zach placed his toy in the basket and ran in to class to tell Mrs. Apella what he did!! I am soooooooo PROUD of him!!!!!

Advent day 4...Nativity Set

2008-12-04T17:39:00.000-08:00

When Mady came home from school today we set up our Nativity set!

Advent Day 3...

2008-12-03T03:49:00.000-08:00

Today was a very busy day of running errands for Mommy and Zach! We are headed to the local craft store...I am making cards and a craft with Mady's class tomorrow! Unfortunately, Mady's teacher fell and broke her leg...she is in the Hospital and will need surgery! Sadly, she will need quite some time to heal!

Our move to this MUCH smaller house, resulted in MANY items of ours NOT fitting in! We have donated some items to a local shelter. I had a few things that I thought I would try to sell first, and today I sold my first item on Craigslist. One of our stops was to sell our item! With my cash from the sale in hand Zach and I continued to run our errands...when we saw a Homeless Vietnam Veteran asking for help...I gave him the money. Although, I have no picture for this post to share...the smile on that mans face and the gratitude he showed will live in my heart...

Snowflakes

2008-12-02T18:06:00.000-08:00

After dinner tonight the kids chose another item from our Advent Chain! "Let's make SNOWFLAKES"...they said!!! We thought they came out beyond fabulous...not bad for first time snowflake makers!! They make our Kitchen window look so festive! I had so much fun with my kids...Mady and Zach drew the designs and Mommy cut!

Legend of the Snowflake Long ago... a glittering star led the way to a Holy Child, And today it is said that snowflakes are tiny pieces of that very star sent to lead our hearts anew to Jesus the Light of the World Author Unknown

Sending Birthday Wishes, Hugs, Kisses and Miss U's!

2008-12-01T18:49:00.000-08:00

Today is my Mom's Birthday...and although it has been 21 years since she passed away...I miss her more everyday! I miss that my children have never had her in their lives...she would have loved them! Today we talked about her and that it would have been her Birthday today...then we filled up some balloons, wrote messages and sent them up to heaven...

Advent Calendar

2008-11-30T18:44:00.000-08:00

They were so proud of themselves!

This year we want to start teaching and help our children learn and understand the TRUE meaning of Christmas! Last week I sat down with them and I explained to them that this year we would make an Advent Calendar or Chain, (they chose the chain) and come up with a list of things we would add and do each day! It IS better to give than to RECEIVE, I told them! We would do fun things together as a family, BUT we would also think about those NOT as lucky as us and give...

I then asked each of them to come up with some ideas of their own to add to our Family Advent Chain...

Mady's Ideas..."give more than a quarter to a homeless person...invite one of my after school care friends over for a play date, so they won't have to be alone until their Mommy gets off work...leave a snack or drink for the mailman...take some of my toys to a little girl that isn't as lucky as me"

Zach's Idea..."take the firemen some cookies, and drinks and thank you cards to thank them for their hard work, and buy them new helmets, hoses, and axes in case theirs break"

Today we made and hung our beautiful chain!

The kids are so excited about all of our ideas, they can't wait to start...I am so proud of them!!

A quick stop by the ZOO!

2008-11-29T18:18:00.000-08:00

We were almost home from taking a drive through Mount Vernon...When Zach announced he had to pee NOW! So into the ZOO we went to use the potty...and take a peek at a few animals!!

What I feel like today!!!

Natural Museum of American History

2008-11-28T18:09:00.000-08:00

Of course Miss Mady wants a pair!!

Today...along with TONS of other people with the same idea...we went to see the newly renovated museum! It was way to crowded!! It is beautiful and full of some very cool things!! We will have to go back...when all the tourists go home!!!!!!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T14:54:00.000-08:00

I love waking up on Thanksgiving ready to spend the day cooking!! This year I had willing helper!! I remember the first year my Dad had me in the kitchen prepping the Turkey...I was actually scared to stick my hand in it's cavity!! Mady was an awesome sous chef!! We enjoyed the Macy's Day Parade, Grandma, Grandpa, and Uncle Jay(even though they weren't feeling well), watching Football, playing games, sitting by the warm fire, talking to family and friends on the phone, and most of all...spending the day together and counting our blessings!! My Sous Chef!!

Mady BASTED our Yummy TURKEY!!

US with VERY FULL Tummy's

Mady set most of the table herself! Grandma and Mommy helped very little!

Mady handmade every one's place cards...each included a personal message and picture!

Grandma and Mady played games while the Turkey Roasted!

After Dinner we burned off some calories by playing outside and riding bikes!

Mady was shocked when she saw Daddy was riding HER bike!!

Zach getting in on some racing!

Mady riding FAST!!

The sun began to set...

And a beautiful sunset it was...

We are so Thankful for all our BLESSINGS!

Thanksgiving Eve

2008-11-27T06:54:00.000-08:00

MOMMY DOES NOT COOK on THANKSGIVING EVE!!! Pizza it IS!

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T06:26:00.000-08:00

Love this time of year!!
Tonight we snuggled on the couch and watched one of my childhood favorites!

Mady is such a wonderful BIG Sister!

She read to Zach while they waiting for the show to start!
So Sweet!!!

Coloring with Grandma and Grandpa!

2008-11-26T05:52:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Grandpa Lewchanin came for Thanksgiving!!! They have unfortunately been under the weather...so we have just been hanging out...but still having fun!

Madyson's Thanksgiving Day Feast

2008-11-25T16:32:00.000-08:00

The Kindergartner's at Lafayette Elementary Celebrated Thanksgiving Today! I spent the morning with 17 FABULOUS kids making STUFFING to bring to the Feast! What a HOOT!! They had so much fun, MEASURING, POURING, STIRRING, and BAKING! Each class brought a TURKEY and a dish to share! Then they sang a few songs and celebrated with their friends!

A few of my Sous Chefs!

My FAVORITE one!

Mady's Place mat!

All 5 Kindergarten Classes Sang for us!

Mady and Peter!

Zach loved hanging out with the BIG kids!

YUMMO!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Concert Night

2008-11-23T05:47:00.000-08:00

Tonight Mady and Zach put on the BEST concert Peter and Have EVER been to!!

ROCK ON!!!!!!!!

Our ThankFul Tree

2008-11-22T04:55:00.000-08:00

I have SO much to be Thankful for! And now that the kids are getting older and understanding so much more, Peter and I want to teach them about being Thankful and really begin to teach them and help them understand the TRUE meaning of the Holidays...especially Christmas! So...in an attempt to do so... Last night our family planted a bare Tree (well really a branch) that we found in our wonderful park across the street! It was Sad and needed to come alive with Thankfulness!! So we traced our hands and wrote what each of us is Thankful for in our lives!! WHAT an amazing time we had...definitely a NEW family tradition!

SOME of the REASONS I am so BLESSED!!

Bundle Up

2008-11-21T05:11:00.000-08:00

How cute was Mady all Bundled up to brave the cold?

My Sweet Boy

2008-11-16T12:04:00.000-08:00

Love Him!!!!!!!!

Veteran's Day Fun

2008-11-15T13:09:00.000-08:00

Owl Butterfly

Totally different view of monument with the bare trees

Both kids said"Papa will love this"

SQUID

When I told Mady THAT was Calamari!!!!

Happy Day!!!!

Since today was Veteran's Day and NO SCHOOL and we live in the Nation's Capitol!!! I thought it would be appropriate and fun to go see the sites downtown, see the monuments, explain to the kids what this day means, and of course Have Fun! We had a blast...we also stopped by their favorite museum! Saw some beautiful butterflies...and got to see the new OCEAN HALL...it just opened!!

Fall Fun

2008-11-12T11:00:00.001-08:00

Cool DUDE

The last of the leaves are hanging on the trees in Rock Creek Park...we went down yesturday to take pictures for Christmas cards...and back today to enjoy this beautiful Fall day! Soon the trees will be bear until spring:(

Zach is sporting his Rugby jersey his Daddy brought him home from Ireland last year!!