Helena's Crib

We are moving...the blog!

2009-04-13T20:38:00.002-04:00

In light of our new arrival, our blog is moving. You can now find us at:

http://theblibunch.blogspot.com

It's a boy!

2009-04-13T15:35:00.004-04:00

Helena is proud to welcome her new baby brother, Jonathan Ben. He weighed in at 7 lbs, 4 oz. and 19 1/2 inches long. He came so fast this morning that Sara had to do the delivery without an epidural...and her doctor who was racing from the ER. Sara is resting comfortably, and Jonathan is acclimating to life outside the womb. We are looking forward to Helena's introduction to her baby brother. More pictures to follow.

Beard today....

2009-03-10T13:23:00.001-04:00

...gone tomorrow!

Happy Purim!

2009-03-08T14:22:00.002-04:00

Helena dressed as a princess fairy (it's the best of both worlds)

Sitting with Daddy during the Mr. Ray concert

Helena practicing her soccer kick (hopefully she is old enough to play in the fall)

Making a sand art butterfly

Say Cheese!

2009-03-03T19:25:00.002-05:00

Helena thought it was only fair that she got to take a photo of Daddy after he snapped one of her.

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss

2009-03-03T19:21:00.003-05:00

Helena's belated tribute to Dr. Seuss (aka Theodore Geisel) for what would have been his 105th birthday (the celebration got delayed a day because most of her classmates, herself included, did not go to school yesterday because of the weather)

Attention shoppers!

2009-02-23T22:03:00.001-05:00

To combat the recession, Helena has been sent to work as a cashier. What didn't make it into the clip was Helena asking for the child's "Shoprite" card. I guess she has gone food shopping a couple of times!

Please Touch Museum Redux

2009-02-23T21:45:00.005-05:00

Helena made a return visit to the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia. This time she was joined by new friends Mia and Lily. All three girls took excellent naps after 3 hours of running around and playing at the museum (much to their parent's delight).

"Say Cheese"

Hopping on the "Big" piano

Banging the drums with Daddy

"I once strummed a guitar this big!"

Helena liked visiting the Statute of Liberty so much that she imagined it in her own image

Helena and Daddy going shopping (it appears Daddy has a bit of a sweet tooth)

Mia going food shopping as well

"Here's your Big Mac Daddy!"

Mia riding the carosel

Helena and Daddy riding the carosel

Helena and Lily playing a musical instrument

"Here we come to get you!"

Time to Bake

2009-02-20T15:10:00.002-05:00

Helena spent Valentine's Day night with her Grandparents so that Mommy and Daddy could have a night on their own. Helena spent part of the evening helping Grandma bake a cake for Grandpa.

The finished product (who decided to put pretzels on it?)

"Ummm! Delicious!"

The Big Show

2009-02-01T16:36:00.004-05:00

Helena's semester at the Little Gym concluded yesterday with a "Big Show" for parents, grandparents, family, and friends to come observe.

Getting ready to go into class

We aren't sure what this means, but Helena ran toward us in the middle of her class and gave us this sign with her hands

Showing off on the balance beam

Daddy was impressed with how easily Helena did this, both physically and without an adult spotting her

Helena likes this pose the best

Here she is doing it again without assistance

Helena posing after receiving her medal

Helena, her classmates, and her teachers

Helena showing off her medal

Getting inked

2009-01-25T11:36:00.001-05:00

Helena showing off her Diego tattoo on her hand, which she got at a birthday party the beginning of the month (it took several weeks to get the darn thing off)

Ride 'em cowboy!

2009-01-25T11:35:00.001-05:00

First snow!

2009-01-11T19:42:00.002-05:00

It's mid-January, but Central Jersey has gotten its first "real" snowstorm of the winter season (if slightly over 1 inch really counts as a snowstorm). Helena got all dressed up in her new snowsuit to attack the snow.

Helena earning her keep and helping Daddy shovel the driveway. Ironically, her efforts were actually helpful.

Happy 33rd Birthday, Daddy!

2009-01-02T20:35:00.004-05:00

Mommy and Daddy didn't lose all of Helena's college fun in Atlantic City so there was enough money left to go out to dinner to celebrate Daddy's birthday. Thank you Auntie Amanda and Uncle Blair for joining us for pizza at Uno's and homemade cake.

"Come to Daddy"

Helena loves parmesan cheese

Daddy and the birthday cake by Sara (with assistance from Helena)

Auntie Amanda and Uncle Blair couldn't turn down cake

"Can't a girl eat her cake in peace?"

Somebody's in the kitchen with Helena

2009-01-02T20:33:00.003-05:00

Helena helped Mommy prepare Daddy's birthday cake

"I'm all ready, Mommy!"

Icing away

Happy 60th Birthday Papa!

2008-12-29T11:27:00.003-05:00

"Wow! The tower of onion rings is almost as big as me!"

Helena is really into her hamburger

The birthday boy and his celebratory ice cream sundae

Last night of Hannukah 2008

2008-12-28T22:54:00.002-05:00

Tonight brought the close to Hannukah 2008!

Saying blessing before lighting candles

Helping Daddy light candles on last night of Hannukah

Singing song to celebrate Hannukah (and make a nice video to post)

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Helena's basketball moves

2008-12-28T22:51:00.000-05:00

Helena showing off her basketball skills

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Bright Lights

2008-12-28T22:43:00.004-05:00

Springfield, Massachusetts park display of holiday-themed lights and other spectacular light displays

"Happy Holidays Springfield"

Hannukah Menorah

The Cat in the Hat

We liked this house because it had the letter "B" on it

Candyland

Helena on the hardwood

2008-12-28T22:30:00.006-05:00

Who knew that Helena liked basketball so much?

Posing with Daddy on the Hall of Fame court

Playing one-on-one with Daddy

Helena showing off her dribbling skills

Daddy is just a little too short to help Helena dunk the ball into a regulation basket

Helena grabbing a drink after all that exercise

Mommy and Helena watching Daddy in the free-throw competition

Daddy and his competitors in the free-throw competition (the first two kids in front of him weren't even alive when Michael Jordan played!)

Daddy watching his losing shot clank off the front rim

"WNBA, here I come!"
(Incidentally, this was picture no. 2323. Do you believe in karma?)

The Basketball Hall of Fame

2008-12-28T22:19:00.007-05:00

On the way home from Boston, the family stopped at the Basketball Hall of Fame and discovered that Helena has some game on the hardwood (see subsequent post).

"I once caught a fish this big."

Daddy sizing up against the tallest and shortest players ever to play in the NBA.

"Daddy, I'm not going to fall for your tricks and climb in there!"

Daddy in front of the Chicago Bulls display (as taken by Helena)

Daddy trying to sling-shot a ball into a hoop (impossible!)

Daddy trying to guard Michael Jordan (as if!)

Mommy with Larry Bird (where's that right hand?)

View of the Basketball Hall of Fame from our hotel room

Early birthday celebration for Daddy!

2008-12-28T22:15:00.004-05:00

Although Daddy's birthday is not until January 2nd, he got an early celebration with Mommy's family in Boston.

It took a lot of hot air to blow out all of those candles on the two cakes!

Hannukah in Boston

2008-12-28T22:10:00.004-05:00

Lighting the Hannukah menorah for the fourth night, which was celebrated in Boston with Mommy's family

Mommy, what a great holiday! We get to have jelly-filled donuts.
(two dozen of them were in the pizza box shown in the prior picture)

One of these is not like the rest (Helena with her Yossef cousin's Kobe, Gabby, Avi, and Zack)

The Girls - Helena and Gabby

Helena enjoying her gift from cousin Rose - a Disney blanket and a princess book/pillow

New Hairstyle

2008-12-28T21:59:00.003-05:00

Mommy wanted me to get a trim and new hairstyle

Waiting paitently while my hair is cut

The new style! Whatcha think?

Happy Hannukah!

2008-12-22T22:02:00.003-05:00

Photographs from last night's first night of Hannukah

Lighting the menorah with Daddy

Helena loves books

I think the shirt says it all. Thank you Aunti Amanda and Uncle Blair.

Helena the rockstar with her Barbie guitar. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa!

Helena and Daddy - Guitar Heroes

More formal pictures

2008-12-22T22:00:00.000-05:00

Belated Thanksgiving post

2008-12-22T21:53:00.005-05:00

Again, oops by Daddy in not posting these photographs earlier from Thanksgiving. The family was in Boston and made a trip to the science museum.

Riding the seesaw with Daddy...and some mysterious boy who didn't want to wait his turn

"Who you looking at Mr. Skeleton?"

"Look at how tall I am!"

"Daddy, you ready to light this rocket up?"

"Houston, we have a problem!"

Peek-a-boo

I see you!

"This is Helena with Harbor Patrol. Please move your ship to shore. Thank you!"

Oops! Daddy fell asleep and didn't update the blog!

2008-12-22T21:50:00.003-05:00

Sorry fans of Helena's blog. Daddy fell asleep at the wheel and left out some updates to the blog. This first one is from Helena's Little Gym class in November when parents were allowed to sit in the classroom and watch, and the kids were allowed to wear their pajamas.

Just hanging around

Stretching it out

Doing some chin-ups

School Pictures - Fall 2008

2008-11-26T19:47:00.002-05:00

Just her luck, Helena decided to jump off of a bench at daycare and cut up her nose the day before her school pictures. So that should explain the red cut on her nose and the glare of cream to heal her wound in the following pictures.

Trick or Treat

2008-11-01T20:05:00.004-04:00

Helena got to go to one house and see if she would get a treat for Halloween

"Trick or treat! Do you have any candy for me?"

"Wow, thanks for the candy ma'am!"

Helena thankful her Daddy took her out to get some candy on Halloween (usually they don't take your picture after they give you candy...but this house was special!)

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T19:56:00.004-04:00

The annual Halloween parade at Helena's school

Helena as a princess fairy

The Girls - Ella, Helena, Emily, and Alexa

Helena and her friend Emily

"I see you!"

"Can I get some more orange juice, please?"

"It's quicker than taking an airplane!"

Mixing the witch's brew

"Hail, Hail to Michigan..."

2008-11-01T19:54:00.003-04:00

Although they are not having a good season, Helena is still willing to show her school spirit for her Daddy's alma mater, sporting her new cheerleader's outfit (in the background you can see that the game is actually on...and Michigan is not losing - yet!).

Happy Birthday Twirl

2008-10-24T15:36:00.001-04:00

Helena's friends took her for a ride on a parachute while singing her Happy Birthday

Shake that booty!

2008-10-24T10:22:00.005-04:00

Helena and her friend Jackson dancing at Helena's party

Happy 3rd Birthday Helena!

2008-10-23T20:06:00.006-04:00

Helena, Mommy, and Daddy at the Little Gym for Helena's party

Helena's princess cake

Helena hanging out during her birthday party

Helena and her friends waiting to do an activity at the party

Bouncing around

Taking a rest (Helena, in her usual sleeping position with her butt in the air)

Helena chasing the teacher

Helena and her friends relaxing (though Helena appears to be digging for a snack)

Helena's friend Ella pointing out where the real food is at

The pizza

The cake

Helena's haul from her birthday party (lots of work for Daddy to put things together)

Early birthday party in Boson

2008-10-13T20:06:00.004-04:00

The Birthday Girl and her Dora cake

"Make a wish"

Helena and cousin Gabby

Helena with cousins Avi, Kobe, Gabby, and Zach (Avi and Kobe were dressed a little early for Halloween)

The Girls - Lily, Gabby, Helena, and Becca

Helena and Avi (they look like they are posing at prom)

Helena shoveling sand at the park

Helena and Kobe going down the slide

Go Pats!

2008-10-13T20:05:00.000-04:00

Helena showing support for the New England Patriots and injured Michigan alum Tom Brady. Daddy was really happy with the jersey, but Mommy said it wasn't worth buying.

"But I don't want to go shopping anymore!"

2008-10-13T20:04:00.002-04:00

Helena throwing a tantrum in Macy's two weeks ago (it took Daddy time to remember to send it from my cell phone so I could post it).

Belated L'Shanah Tovah!

2008-10-03T14:21:00.001-04:00

Helena wearing a dress by "Helena"

Helena's New T-Shirt

2008-09-28T20:01:00.001-04:00

Although a picture is usually worth 1,000 words, there's not really anything I need to add to this one; the message of the pictures speaks for itself!

Apple Picking

2008-09-21T16:55:00.003-04:00

"Mommy and Daddy took me apple picking today in honor of Johnny Appleseed's birthday on the 23rd."

"Look at all the rules...just to go apple picking!"

"This looks like a keeper!"

Mommy and Helena hiding under an apple tree

"Um! This apple is yummy!"

"Daddy, let's get these apples home so Mommy can bake us some delicious treats!"

Riviera Maya

2008-09-14T19:23:00.008-04:00

Mommy and Daddy took a relaxing, peaceful, quiet vacation to the Yucatan Peninsula without Helena for a couple of days to celebrate their 4th anniversary.

The happy couple ready for rest and relaxation

Brings new meaning to Helena's expression "come to my hut"

Jeff ready for the kayaking trip

Dead tired after rowing against the current to come back to shore

Up, up and away...

Great camera shot, Sara! Jeff upon his take-off in the parasail

Relaxing by the pool

Relaxing by the bar

Relaxing by the pool bar (unfortunately it didn't open until 9am)

The shower was bigger than our master bathroom (pre-remodeling reconstruction).

Hail to the Victors!

2008-08-30T19:29:00.001-04:00

Hope everybody has had an enjoyable summer! Despite Michigan losing its first game of the season to Utah, Helena was excited to show her school spirit for Daddy's alma mater (see the following video). The college football season is long enough that hopefully Helena will learn the whole "Victors" by the time of the OSU game.

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Sesame Place

2008-08-17T10:19:00.006-04:00

The family headed to Sesame Place last week for a fun day of water rides and Sesame Street characters.

Going down a water slide with Daddy

Very refreshing on a hot day

"Daddy, are you sure you are supposed to climb up this with me?"

Watching the Elmo show

"There goes Elmo!"

Slapping high-fives with Zoey during the parade

Wiped out after a fun day at Sesame Place. Thanks Mommy and Daddy!

Wolverine Pride

2008-08-06T21:24:00.004-04:00

Jeff showing off his belated Father's Day gift from Sara - personalized University of Michigan license plates

A Day at the Beach

2008-08-06T21:18:00.001-04:00

Sunday was a great day, so the family hit the Jersey Shore.

Helena showing off her pink bathing suit

Playing in the sand

Statue Garden

2008-07-20T17:39:00.005-04:00

Can you pick out the statues versus the real people?

How about here?

The male statue looks a little annoyed at Amanda and Karen. He was trying to pick up the female statue until they sat down on the bench.

I see the yoga has been paying off for Amanda

Grandpa Harold's way of combating the rising costs of gasoline. It's going to be a long trip back to Ohio on that scooter!

Nice rack (referring to the statue), though that stick coming out of the stomach brings new meaning to an "outie" belly button. And isn't Lee's head wrap the kind of scarf that got Rachel Ray in trouble?

Happy Belated Birthday Grandma Shirley!

2008-07-20T17:19:00.001-04:00

Happy 85th Birthday Grandpa Harold

2008-07-14T17:26:00.005-04:00

Besides celebrating a wedding this weekend, the family also held a belated party for Grandpa Harold's 85th birthday!

Grandpa Harold, holding up one of his gifts for all to say

Grandpa Harold and Granmda Shirley with their four daughters - Sandi, Judy, Janet, and Karen

"So after I finish what is on my plate, I can eat what is on Mommy's plate as well."

Auntie Amanda and Uncle Blair, the day after the big day

Helena with Daddy and Mommy

Auntie Amanda's Wedding

2008-07-14T17:17:00.005-04:00

Helena, getting ready for her duties as flower girl

Helena with Mommy and Daddy

Big smile from the flower girl

Helena with soon-to-be Uncle Blair

Helena with Grandma

Chilling out before the ceremony with the bridesmaids

The new Mr. and Mrs. Rothman

Auntie Amanda and Grandpa

Dancing with Auntie Amanda and Uncle Blair

Dancing with Daddy

Dancing with Mommy

Helena showing off her dance moves on her own

Dancing with Bubbe and Mommy

Mossad meets CIA and DHS (actually, it's cousins Dor and Abram with Daddy)

Daddy with Sammy

Grandma and Grandpa

Grandma Shirley and Grandpa Harold with all of their grandchildren (minus Hadar who was not present)

Grandma getting in one last dance with Helena who is already to go to bed in the car ride home!

She's like the Energizer bunny - Helena danced the whole wedding from the first dance to the last!

The night before the wedding get-together

2008-07-14T14:37:00.003-04:00

Helena demonstrating how she is going to walk down the aisle at the wedding

Daddy's first cousins

Aunt Janet and Aunt Judy

Daddy's Grandma and Grandpa

Uncle Stan and Uncle Micha

Helena with Grandma and Great-Grandma

"Enough pictures. Let's eat dessert!"

Wedding Prep

2008-07-14T14:31:00.004-04:00

The ladies getting their hair done for Auntie Amanda's wedding

Auntie Amanda getting styled

Helena waiting her turn to get her hair styled

"Make me look beautiful!"

"Looking good!"

"Ah! Grandma, we have a lot of work to do on you!"

All styled and ready to take a nap before the wedding. Go Saux!

New hairdo

2008-07-14T14:29:00.001-04:00

"What do you think of this style for Auntie Amanda's wedding?"

"At the Little Gym"

2008-06-22T11:18:00.005-04:00

This Saturday was Helena's last class at the Little Gym, so we thought we would show you what she has been up to for the last 20 weeks!

Helena and Mikey

Drinking up before the exercise begins

"Here are your bells, Mommy"

Mommy and Helena

Having fun in the parachute

"Look Mommy - no hands!"

"Miss Cary, I don't feel so great in this position!"

Supergirl pose

Hanging out with Daddy

Taking a break

Think up your own caption to this picture; I don't want to get censored by the website!

Does anybody else see bubbles, or am I just tired from running around!?!

Lily's Bat Mitzvah

2008-06-22T11:13:00.003-04:00

The family headed to Boston for cousin Lily's Bat Mitzvah. Well, the plan was for Daddy to meet them in Boston...and he eventually arrived after a long trip from Dallas.

Lily and Becca

Helena and Becca

Helena and the Boys

Bubbe and Lily

"Where is Daddy?"

Farewell to the Pacifiers

2008-06-08T13:22:00.005-04:00

The family took part in a solemn ceremony today to help Helena say goodbye to her pacificers (hopefully, for good). For the past week, Helena has been prepared to bury her pacificers in the yard with flowers she has planted with her Mommy over the past several weeks.

Helena posing with her pacifiers one last night

"Goobye pacifiers!"

Watering the flower placed on the site where Helena's pacifiers were buried

Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty

2008-05-25T09:07:00.005-04:00

For her birthday, Sara arranged through her company a special trip to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Helena was happy to have her Bubbe and cousin Becca joining her for the weekend.

The ladies posing in Liberty State Park

Posing in front of the entrance to Ellis Island

Becca, with the Statue of Liberty in the background

Sara and Jeff

Becca in front of the Statue of Liberty

Helena with Mommy and Daddy in front of the Statue of Liberty

"That's a big green girl!"

Sara and Becca with the New York City skyline in the background

As if finding your luggage at Newark Airport is hard enough. Imagine finding it here!?!

Got crack? This guy didn't realize he did for about 45 minutes!

Immigrant family straight off the boat! Cute baby!

Handsome immigrant couple

Lets get cook'n

2008-05-06T21:59:00.002-04:00

All ready to hit the kitchen

I don't know what the dress code is in your kitchen...

School pictures - spring edition

2008-05-06T20:01:00.002-04:00

It's finally spring!

2008-05-06T19:57:00.002-04:00

Helena riding a tricycle at Grandma and Grandpa's house

What Helena's hair looks like when Daddy does it

If you want to join Helena's gang, this is the sign

Showing off the pink dress she wore out for Grandpa's birthday dinner

Helena with Mommy

Helena and Daddy

Cousins

2008-05-06T19:55:00.000-04:00

April, 2008

Playing in the Park

2008-05-06T19:49:00.003-04:00

Helena and Zack getting pushed on the swings by Becca

Helena's head is spinning on this ride!

Kobe playing cricket with the big boys

Even Death has time to take a ride on a swing

Fenway Park

2008-04-24T20:50:00.002-04:00

Getting ready for the tour of Fenway

Kobe at the Green Monster seats

Sitting in the oldest seats in the park

Sara and Jeff

Happy Passover!

2008-04-24T20:37:00.002-04:00

Helena waiting patiently for everybody to join her at the table

The gang's all here!

The Girls

Helena with Rebecca and Avi

Paging GQ magazine

Pool's open!

2008-04-24T20:24:00.003-04:00

Helena doing a dance because she is excited to go swimming

Cousin's picture

Avi, actually enjoying his time in the pool

Snack time after swimming

Overnight at the Doubletree

2008-04-24T20:22:00.003-04:00

During our trip this past weekend to Boston, Helena got to have a sleepover at the hotel with her cousin Rebecca.

Helena and Rebecca ready to go to sleep

Breakfast the next morning

Visiting Papa

2008-04-24T20:19:00.003-04:00

Helena with Mommy and Papa

Going for a ride on Papa

"Thanks for breakfast Papa!"

The Glamour Shot

Purim Carnival

2008-03-23T17:42:00.003-04:00

The Princess, ready for the Purim Carinval

Daddy and Helena on the obstacle course (not easy when one is wearing a dress and the other has to carry the one wearing the dress)

Call the Yankees. Helena has a mighty curve ball.

Throwing a touchdown, with an assist from Grandpa

Sand art created with Mommy's help

The Big Girl Room

2008-03-22T13:25:00.003-04:00

Last night Mommy and Daddy threw Helena a party, attended by Grandma and Grandpa, to celebrate Helena's move into her big girl room. Bye bye crib and toddler bed!

Helena posing on her new bed

A look at some of the other furniture in Helena's big girl room

The calm before the storm of eating the cupcake begins

The cupcake never stood a chance

Finger lick'n good, down to the last drop of icing!

Tubby Time!

2008-03-22T13:24:00.003-04:00

"But I don't want to take a tubby and get my hair wet!" (the goggles are so she doesn't get water in her eyes when her hair gets washed...which is why she does not like going in the tub)

Happy Purim!!!!

2008-03-22T13:20:00.000-04:00

Visiting the new cousin

2008-03-14T08:55:00.004-04:00

Helena and her parents went to Boston to visit Helena's newest cousin, Gabriella.

Gabriella

Mommy and Helena with Gabriella

Daddy with Gabriella

Daddy with Helena and Zack

Zack, a mess after eating a piece of cake

Helena, drilling for something!

Helena giving a kiss to Gabriella

Zack, bundled up in Gabby's car seat and wearing Daddy's Michigan hat

Helena with Auntie

Liberty Science Center

2008-02-06T19:12:00.000-05:00

Lounging around before heading out to the Liberty Science Center

"I know it is cold out, but is it that cold?!?"

"How cute...and pointy!"

"Daddy, don't you think I'm a little too young to be training for the Olympics?"

Helena crawling through the tube

Wasn't this in the Karate Kid - painting up and down?

"Look! No hands!"

Helena and Daddy getting ready for their audition with the Village People

Happy New Year! Happy Birthday! Go Blue!

2008-01-06T13:47:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since all three of those could be said together, but 2008 started off with a bang. Sara threw together a small tailgate party to celebrate the New Year and Jeff's birthday, and the Michigan Wolverines managed to pull out a win in their bowl game. Go Blue!

Helena all ready for the Michigan game

Daddy and Helena

The Birthday Cake (of course, made from scratch by Sara)

Helena's Dora cupcake (she couldn't keep her hands off of it)

The Birthday Boy

Helena helping Daddy blow out his birthday candles

Crayola Factory

2007-12-31T14:18:00.001-05:00

Only an hour from home in Easton, Pennsylvania, Crayola has a factory that teaches how crayons are made, and makes an excellent day trip for kids. Helena had plenty of opportunity to draw and color, and take part in the many activities at the Crayola factory.

Helena coloring with Daddy

Helena working on a project with Mommy

"Do these overalls make my hips look too fat?!?"

Helena drawing with markers on the glass wall

The Bass Pro Shop

2007-12-27T19:37:00.000-05:00

The Bass Pro Shop is conveniently located at Patriot Place, an up-and-coming strip mall next to Gilette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots. Besides being a mecca for camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing enthusiasts, the Bass Pro Shop also contains a small fish aquarium and plenty of "real" stuffed animals to keep Helena occupied and amused (we, amazingly, spent an hour walking through the two-story store, duringwhich we actually made some purchases before heading over to the Patriot Pro Shop to do some further shopping).

"Wow, Daddy, look at all the fishies!"

"I don't know what animal that is, but it is pretty darn big!"

"I think we should get this bed for home!"

"How do you like my new hat?"

"I couldn't hit a fish in a barrel let alone an inanimate object!"

"Soldier of Fortune" coverboy

Sledding Good Time (continued)

2007-12-26T13:04:00.000-05:00

Please make sure to look at the video link in the prior posting. Below are still shots from our sledding fun in Massachusetts.

Helena in her new snowsuit testing out the snow

Helena and Daddy in the snow

Helena getting a face full of snow

Helena sledding by herself

Helena and Daddy riding down the sled path

Cousin Stephanie getting major air over the sled jump

Cousin Robert

Cousin Rebecca

Daddy getting some major air over the sled jump

Wipeout!!!

"Hi-ho, Hi-Ho, it's up the snowhill I go..."

Cousins Gabriel and Adam with their snowman

The girls just chilling out in the snow

Cousin Josh

Cousin Avi riding down with Daddy

Cousin Kobe

"I don't want to go inside! I want to stay outside in the snow!"

Happy (early) Birthday Cousin Zack (and Daddy)!!!

2007-12-26T12:50:00.000-05:00

During the family's recent trip to Boston, an early birthday celebration was held for Helena's cousin Zack (who is turning 1), and her Daddy (who is turning, eh, more than 1). They both share a birthday (January 2nd).

Cousin Zack, happy to be turning 1

The birthday boys - cousin Zack and Jeff

Cousin Kobe licking icing off of Zack's fingers

Helena enjoying her slice of cake (and leaving no prisoners)

Helena with her Dora the explorer balloon

Zack holding up his Elmo balloon with Cousin Rebecca

Helena and Cousin Avi

Sledding good time in Massachusetts!

2007-12-24T18:13:00.000-05:00

During our long weekend in Boston, we visited some of Sara's cousins who have a large hill in their front lawn. Thanks to about a foot of snow, they created several sledding paths, which Helena, her Daddy, and other family members gladly took part in and enjoyed. See the below link for video of our sledding fun, created and graciously posted by Sara's cousin, Gregory. Awesome job!

You Tube Sledding Link

Sometimes I feel like Cinderella!

2007-12-14T13:22:00.004-05:00

While most kids her age come home from daycare and get to play with toys or watch TV, Helena is busy doing choirs, like vacuuming the floor

Say Cheese!

2007-12-14T13:22:00.003-05:00

Helena turning the tables on her daddy, who usually takes most of the pictures, now that she has her own digital camera

Happy Hannukah!

2007-12-14T13:19:00.000-05:00

Thank you Mommy for the Hannukah cookie!

"I love Hannukah - cookies and gifts! Does life get any better?!?"

"Sorry, I'm a slow eater!"

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-12-01T14:10:00.000-05:00

Helena and family celebrated Thankgiving in New Jersey. Despite Mommy and Daddy not appearing in any of the pictures, they were there with Helena to celebrate the holiday (I guess somebody had to be the photographer!).

I've heard of duets on the piano, but this is the first trio (Helena with Great-Grandma Shirley and Grandma)

Helena and Auntie Amanda

Helena with Grandpa

Helena with Auntie Amanda and Great-Grandpa Harold

Helena dressed up and looking good for Thanksgiving

"Blair, I'm the one who is supposed to be two-years old!"

"I'm stuffed! Please take me home to bed!"

Pictures by Helena

2007-12-01T14:08:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not, photographs taken by Helena with a real digital camera (I didn't post the bad shots of people's legs and the floor)

Say cheese for the camera Daddy!!

Don't be shy for the camera Auntie Amanda!!

Rub-a-dub-dub...

2007-12-01T14:07:00.001-05:00

Helena in the tub!

Nice hairdo!

Helena and her girls

2007-12-01T14:05:00.001-05:00

Helena sitting nicely on the couch with her baby dolls, who she named Becca, Lily, and Carol

Dutch Country, PA

2007-11-12T14:26:00.001-05:00

The family headed to Hershey and Lancaster, Pennsylvania for the weekend to visit Hershey's Chocolate World and the many outlets in Lancaster (because there is no shopping in New Jersey).

C'mon! Let's get some chocolate!

Daddy and Helena posing in front of Hershey's Chocolate World

Helena and Daddy on chocolate tour

Please don't make me leave Chocolate World!

Punchbuggy black! Oh wait, that's just an Amish buggy on the highway.

Go Blue - Beat MSU!

2007-11-03T20:05:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the Big Ten Network, Helena's daddy has missed many of the Michigan Wolverine football games this season. This weekend's game against Michigan State, though, was thankfully on regular national TV. Helena's mommy made part of her usual tailgating fare (vegetables and dip), which Helena gladly took part in after she first scarfed down cottage cheese and an apple. It was a good night for all in Helena's house as Michigan pulled out the win with two TD scores in the final eight minutes. Go Blue (next stops Wisconsin and OSU)!

Helena going for a "dip" with a carrot

Helena in her Michigan outfit, with remnants of spinach dip on her!

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T18:49:00.000-04:00

Much like the wild and crazy parades in New York City this time of year, Helena's daycare held its annual Halloween costume parade (though not as wild as those in New York City). The costume parade was followed by snacks provided by all of the parents.

March of the little people in costume (do you recognize the princess in the middle?)

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the cutest baby of them all?!?

Helena as a beautiful princess

Ella and Helena

Alexa and Helena

Helena and her classmates enjoying Halloween snack

Helena enjoying a glass of apple juice with her Halloween snack

Sporty Spice

2007-10-31T18:48:00.000-04:00

Helena getting ready to go to school in her Elmo sports suit

....you've got the cutest little babyface!

2007-10-20T21:33:00.000-04:00

Can you pick out the real "baby face" in this picture?

Happy 2nd Birthday Helena (the finale)

2007-10-16T20:55:00.000-04:00

Two weeks of parties culminated with a final celebration today on Helena's actual birthday. Helena's mommy brought cupcakes to school for snack time, which pleased Helena and her classmates who were used to just getting goldfish or pretzels (it was apparent that at least one of the children does not get cupcakes or cookies at home as she inhaled hers in one gulp). Helena also had a special birthday dinner with her parents and enjoyed more cake. Helena's parents would like to thank all of their family and friends who took part in or sent birthday wishes; we look forward to many more years of celebrations.

"Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me..."

"Bottoms up!"

Helena and her classmates eating cupcakes

Helena and her classmates chilling out in their party gear

A funny face from the birthday girl

Apparently, they ran out of cupcakes.

Happy 2nd Birthday Helena - New Jersey Edition

2007-10-14T18:42:00.000-04:00

It's not even Helena's official birthday yet, but she is already having her second birthday party, this time with the family in New Jersey. After a wonderful dinner out at a restaurant, the family returned home for a homemade cake prepared by Sara (she's accepting orders now for birthdays and any occasion).

Helena making a funny face while out at dinner

Helena, dressed in her party outfit, with Daddy and Mommy

Helena's Elmo Birthday cake (created and prepared by Sara)

"Is that cake all for me?"

Helena eating birthday cake

"I really like this gift"

Tickling Elmo while he is still in the box

Opening birthday gifts

"I'm going to take my own picture if you don't mind!"

Helena with Grandpa and her baby doll Becca

Daddy with Helena and her baby dolls, Carol and Becca

Helena getting ready to go out for a ride on her new tricycle with her baby dolls

Happy 2nd Birthday, Helena - Boston Edition

2007-10-07T22:28:00.000-04:00

Although Helena's birthday is not until the 16th, the family headed to Boston this past weekend to celebrate Helena's birthday with her family and friends residing in Saux country! This is the first of many celebrations that are forthcoming.

Helena playing with her balloons

Decorating baby pumpkins

Helena and her pumpkin

Helena eating pizza with Charlotte

Decorating cookies

Hmmm....I think I need to add a couple of sprinkles (why not just dump in the whole container?!?)

Mommy and Daddy with Helena

Helena's Elmo birthday cake

It's my birthday, so if I want to eat the icing right off the side, I will!

Going for a spin after cake

Helena was so pooped after her party, she crashed back at the hotel

Out for dinner celebrating Helena's birthday at Bugaboo Creek (the waitress is holding a stuffed animal moose head)

Jeff goes to Ann Arbor

2007-10-07T22:18:00.001-04:00

Before it was known that Michigan's football team would start off with a debacle, Jeff made plans to head out to Ann Arbor in the middle of September to see Michigan play Notre Dame the third week of the season. What looked to be a clash of the titans before the start of the season, involving the two winningest programs in college football, turned out to be anything but that (and Michigan almost had to forfeit the game after-the-fact because of a rules infraction). Anyway, Jeff's friend, Mike, who is a Domer fan, was a good sport despite the beating his team took. Hope to make it out to South Bend next season for the annual match!

Jeff posing by the Block "M" in the Diag. It was rumored that if you stepped on it before a bluebook exam, you would fail it. Jeff didn't step on it for four years!

Jeff standing on the Michigan hockey team's bench in Yost Ice Arena

Jeff with Charlie Brown in Yost Ice Arena

Jeff and the Blank Family, friends from college (Jamie, Ella, and Howie)

Mike and Jeff on their way out of Michigan Stadium with two minutes left in the game. You can't see the scoreboard in this picture, but the score is Michigan 38, Notre Dame 0!

I'm so tired....

2007-09-23T16:36:00.000-04:00

Helena was so tired after a hearty meal, that she fell right asleep in her high chair while her Mommy was cleaning up!

But I don't want to be a ladybug!

2007-09-16T20:58:00.001-04:00

Without spoiling what Helena is going to be for Halloween, I think it is pretty clear from the below pictures that she is not going to be a ladybug!

Happy Holidays

2007-09-16T20:57:00.000-04:00

Helena all dressed up for the holidays

I love the Fun Bus Redux!

2007-09-16T20:52:00.000-04:00

By now, it should be obvious how much Helena loves the Fun Bus (or any bus for that matter) - see previous posting from last month. To keep her happy, Mommy and Daddy gladly paid the nominal fee so that Helena could enjoy the Fun Bus once a week for the next two months at daycare. As a sign of gratitude, the Fun Bus company provided Helena with a t-shirt that she now proudly wears around and shows off the Fun Bus (and yes, she never wants to take the shirt off!).

Helena showing off her Fun Bus shirt

Daddy and Helena

Go Blue?!?

2007-09-10T21:35:00.001-04:00

Yes, the Michigan Wolverine's football season has been nothing more than historical. Unfortunately, Michigan has been on the wrong side of history with two embarrassing losses at home. That, though, has not dampered Helena's spirits in supporting her daddy's school.

Daddy and Helena posing before Michigan's debacle against Oregon. Helena especially enjoyed Mommy's vegetables with spinach dip!