WinrightFamilyPortrait

Pumpkin' Picking!

2011-10-24T10:41:00.002-05:00

10/21/11

We went to Eckert's to go pumpkin picking. It was a very chilly, windy day but the girls had a blast. Picking their own pumpkins and riding in the wagon (plus seeing some animals) made for a great part of Clare's Fall Break from school.

Long Time, No Blog.

2011-10-24T10:32:00.005-05:00

Okay, so it's been almost a year since the last entry. We've been busy with both girls and the blogging has gone as a non-priority. However, I've gotten some emails over the past few months asking if (and when) I'm going to do some updates. I'm going to try to keep up, but there'll be no promises.

The REAL Santa

2010-12-22T20:39:00.002-06:00

I took Clare to the MO Botanical Gardens to see Santa. Clare said he's the real one because she felt his beard and it was soft and real.

Meeting Rudolph after was a huge (surprise) and treat!

Make You Smile

2010-12-22T10:48:00.005-06:00

Lydia at 4mos laughing. I'm going to watch this when I have a bad day.

2010-12-22T10:34:00.002-06:00

"La Posada" at Clare's School

2010-12-22T10:08:00.003-06:00

La Posada is a Mexican religious and secular winter celebration. Since Clare is in the Spanish School, her school hosted this event. Clare's class made pinatas, and prepared and performed a traditional Mexican song and dance.

All dolled up with someplace to go.

Clare in her classroom and SO excited!

Someone's a little Posada-ed out.

I worked in the classroom to help the kids make the pinatas. They turned out great, and the kids had a fun time making them.

My little Rudolph.

Clare and friend, Amelia, waiting for their food. With friends Jasmine and Mara in the back.

WHACK!

Lots of candy!!!!

Lost: 7 Knocked Out: 3

2010-12-22T10:06:00.001-06:00

This is Clare's 7th lost tooth since July. It is also her 3rd loose tooth that has been knocked out. Good grief, I'm going wrap this girl in bubble wrap!

Happy Baby

2010-12-22T10:04:00.000-06:00

These need no captions.

Dragon Clare to Church

2010-12-22T10:01:00.002-06:00

This is our church bulletin. Clare drew dragons blowing fire on it. I know she's angry because women can't be priests, but this might be taking it a little too far. :)

Bee of the Week!

2010-12-20T10:21:00.003-06:00

Clare was the Abeja de la Semana (Bee of the Week) at school, which is a special priviledge for those who do good work. She was featured and each day there was a special activity for her including lunch with mommy. She also got to be the important role of line leader.

Lydia's First Solids

2010-12-20T10:11:00.002-06:00

She is only 4 months, but is also only in the 4th %tile for weight and height; she is 10lbs, 4oz. The doc suggested we get her on solids so that she can gain weight AND help keep down what she already eats. (She has bad acid reflux and spits up most of what goes in.) She got rice cereal and apples. She could do without the cereal and just eat the apples. :)

Pictures courtesy of photo-journalist and big sis, Clare.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-20T09:46:00.004-06:00

All of the kindergarteners met in Clare's classroom for a Thanksgiving snack as a "family".
We took Clare out of school early and travelled to Angola, IN to Toby's family's Thanksgiving.

Maymie and Clare making goodies at Gma Pat's. Having a Tgiving feast there on Wednesday evening.

Lydia enjoying being held by Gma.

Lots of admirers!

Arm wrestling cousin Wyatt.

Blakeslee Thanksgiving - about 80 people this year.

Enjoying Aunt Norma

AND Aunt Lu!

(Great) Granny Winright - who was turning 90.

Big smiles for cousins Morganne and Maymie!

Lovin' Aunt Bonnie

Breakfast with cousins Will and Russ and having a great, giggling time.

Painting in the craft room at Potwatomi Inn with cousin Maymie.
Leaving Gma Pat and Gpa Mel. :(

Stopping in Indy on the way home and friends visiting us at the hotel. We had not seen them in 4 years!!! Traci, Hayley, Dale, (and Will who is swimming with Clare).

Hayley, Dale, and Lydia

The "Hell Freezes Over" Haircut

2010-12-20T09:40:00.002-06:00

Massive, horrible bedhead. It took 35 minutes and lots of tears to comb this out. She then decides, it's time for a new doo--a shorter one.

So healthy and tangle free!

Clare's Last Soccer Game

2010-12-20T09:30:00.001-06:00

Our good friends, and Lydia's godparents Guy and Chris, came to the game.

Pizza Party afterwards!

Gets a trophy and so excited!

Halloween Festivities

2010-12-20T09:22:00.004-06:00

Trick or Treat!!!

My little sweetpea being held by Kirsten who immediately calmed your fussing down.

Wee Goblins Party with friends...Sarah Ann, Max, and Seigo.

Picking out pumpkins.

"This one will be great for Lydia!"

Halloween party at school.

Parade through the other classrooms.

So happy about the party!

Finally!

2010-10-19T21:02:00.002-05:00

Toby finally has his book published!!! It is now out in the bookstores. It'll be fun to hit Borders and some of the other local bookstores to find it.

Lydia's "hello"

2010-10-19T19:59:00.002-05:00

Lydia has been parroting "hello". It's kinda cool and kinda creepy at the same time. It's fun to get her to say it.

Lydia Talking with Daddy

2010-10-19T10:44:00.003-05:00

Here's Lydia happily chatting it up with her dad. She is 11 weeks old. She's been waking up in the morning doing this, and even does it for her big sister! We are having fun with this.

The Jenny Kavanaugh Band and an Afternoon of Friends

2010-10-19T10:36:00.002-05:00

Jen Kavanaugh has had her own band for years. She happens to be a good friend of ours AND was Clare's preschool teacher last year. She was singing for kids (and adults) at the Royale.

Jam session (wish I could turn the pics vertically).

Clare and good friend Olivia.

A hug from a very beloved teacher.

Rhonda (Olivia's mom) getting some Lydia time. Rhonda is the founder of Clare's immersion school.

Awwwwww....old friends and fellow language immersion school mates.

Friend Sarah Ann and her little brother, Ben, join the crew.

Clare's former sitter, Annette, gets to meet Lydia.

Lydia's Baptism 10.17.10

2010-10-19T10:27:00.002-05:00

This one speaks for itself.

Fr Tom and Lydia

At brunch afterwards. Dad, sister Barb, Mom, and C.

Godparents Guy and Chris.

The fam.

Clare's first "Big School" Field Trip

2010-10-19T10:20:00.002-05:00

We went to Eckert's Orchard Fun Farm to pick apples. However, when we got there, the orchard wouldn't allow us to pick apples, but let the kids get a small pumpkin out of the patch instead. Clare was more excited about riding the school bus. I went as a helper, and we had a great time.

Clare and friend Isabela.

My "Pumpkin Pie-o from Ohio" found her own perfect pumpkin.
Watching a live show about pumpkins. Thatcher and Clare are snuggled up close. Should I be worried? At least this little boy is sweet.

Family Love

2010-10-19T10:16:00.001-05:00

Clare & Toby on TV

2010-09-28T11:10:00.003-05:00

Clare's soccer team was picked at Team of the Week from a local news station. Toby helps out at practices and games (thankfully) because the coach didn't show for this game (he had written down the wrong time). So, Toby jumped in and coached the girls who did really well and ended up winning. You can see Clare's toothless grin in the beginning, and her stopping a goal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPFZShIC8iI

Jurassic Dark

2010-09-28T11:00:00.002-05:00

The MO Botanical Gardens are less than a mile from our house, and the Climatron is crawling with dinos. In the evenings, the use lighting and fog machines to make it spooky.

Searching for dinos.

Playing in the children's garden....

Billy Jean is Not a Lullabye

2010-09-21T10:02:00.001-05:00

In the car.
Lydia..."WAAAAAAAAA"
Liz: Clare please sing to Lydia, maybe she'll calm down.
Clare: Billy Jean is not my lover.....

SOCCER! Clare's 1st game 9.12.10

2010-09-21T09:53:00.003-05:00

Clare had her first soccer game and was very excited (but not without just a touch of nerves).

Sarah Ann, Clare, Greta, Joy, and Megan--the starters.

Clare volunteers to be goalie and LOVES it. She blocked 3 goals. Her "go-get 'em-ness" really shows through during soccer. She jumps right in the madness, and even as goalie, will get right down and grab the ball. (Since she'd never practiced being goalie, daddy who is one of the helper coaches, explains to Clare what to do.) Uncle Guy has some awesome action pics...and needs to email them to me.....eh hem...Guy.

A very proud momma.

Greta, Sarah Ann, and Clare having an after-game snack.

Mmmmm...a Greek soda afterwards to celebrate some hard work!

Native American Festival - Pere Marquette State Park

2010-09-21T09:48:00.002-05:00

Clare is fascinated with how the Native Americans lived and their love of nature (not unlike her own). We took her to Pere Marquette State Park (IL) just an hour east of us for the their NA Festival.

Trying out the drums.

Our true Clare with her tongue out.
Showing off her sucker that looks like a feather.

Let's try that again....

Private Matters

2010-09-21T09:47:00.001-05:00

Liz: "Clare, mommy bought you new underwear, okay?"
Clare: "Well, they'd better be the wedgie-free kind!"

Another Tooth Falths Outh

2010-09-21T09:40:00.002-05:00

A Fifth tooth comes out (while wrestling on the bed with daddy...it was really loose anyway). A new grown up one is popping through on the bottom; that's good, because she has 2 more loose ones and if some of her grown up teeth don't come in soon, it'll be pudding and applesauce for this girl!

Clare Niahm Weed

2010-09-21T09:37:00.001-05:00

Nope, the W is no longer for Winright. It's for Weed because she is growing like one. 1" in 3.5 months.

One of her NEW jumpers for school no longer fits as we found out this morning. :(

Random Pics

2010-09-21T09:30:00.002-05:00

"Please, just tell me when it's over."

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Lydia - 1 month

Clare feeds Lydia for the 1st time.

Sisterly love. Although Lydia doesn't look like she's really feelin' it.

"I'm beginning to feel like mom works for the papparazzi."

Stroller ride video

2010-09-14T10:43:00.002-05:00

Lydia's 1st stroller outing.

The Body Parts Song en Espanol!

2010-09-14T10:11:00.004-05:00

First Walk and Fourth Tooth Folly

2010-09-14T10:05:00.002-05:00

Lydia had her first stroller ride. Thinking of how much she hates the car seat and car ride, we were prepared to hear her scream. Quite the opposite. She didn't mind the stroller at all. Big sis Clare enjoyed pushing her sister, although she probably needs to attend Stroller Pushing 101 as many times as she went off the sidewalk into the grass.

Earlier in the day, Clare's teacher called to say that Clare's loose tooth had come out and she had accidentally swallowed it. She was upset, of course, thinking the tooth would hurt her tummy AND that the Toothfairy would not believe her and subsequently not come that evening. After reassurance from her teachers, she was okay. The toothfairy was kind enough to come that night as well.

This Little Piggy.....went to the doctor

2010-09-04T17:50:00.002-05:00

We had Lydia's 1 month appointment. At birth she was 5lbs-7oz and she went down to 5lbs -2oz in the hospital. At 2 weeks old, she was 5lbs-14oz. Two weeks later at her 1 month check-up, she is 6lbs-12oz! This girl has been doing some serious eating!

A Medal-Winning Day!

2010-09-01T10:46:00.002-05:00

Clare's teacher gave her a medal at school for trying SO hard to speak Spanish, when most of the kids were not. Her teacher was very proud of her. She also got a trophy for doing "the twist" so well in gym class. :)

Random Lydia pics....

2010-09-01T10:44:00.000-05:00

Man, the bottle CAN be a best friend!

Sleeping...well...like a baby.

Soccer!

2010-09-01T10:39:00.002-05:00

Not only was it the 1st day of school, but it was also the 1st evening of soccer practice. We're not "serious soccer parents"; Clare needs help with coordination and to help with her leg stiffness, and soccer was one of the recommended sports. She is also on a team with two good friends, Greta and Sarah Ann, who go to kindergarten elsewhere. It makes for a good way to see each other.

KINDERGARTEN!!!

2010-09-01T10:32:00.002-05:00

First day of school: 8.16.10.
Clare was not thrilled about doing to kindergarten. It was going to be boring and she didn't want to be away from mom for so long. At one point, she said, "I wish I could skip kindergarten and go to the big school (college) and then retire and have a party." Me, too, Clare. Me, too. Keep that idea for when you can be the President, and you'll be a shoe-in. The first week was tough, but by the middle of the 2nd, she was actually liking it.

Clare goes to St Louis Language Immersion School where she will learn everything in Spanish.

In the hall awaiting her turn to go into the class.

Being greeted by her teacher, Profesora Maribel.

Finding her seat!

A sad "goodbye" from mom.

Hermione Granger or a flight attendant?

Help from Family & Friends

2010-09-01T10:23:00.002-05:00

Pat (T's mom) was with us the week Lydia was born to help out because I was on bedrest for my blood pressure; it was so nice knowing Clare was taken care of while I spent extra time in the hospital after Lydia was born. When Pat left, my parents came to help out. When my parents left, our friends took turns bringing us dinner. We hadn't cooked in close to a month! We are so thankful to have such wonderful people in our lives!

Liz's parents, Larry and Jeanne.

Family story time before bed.

More Lydia...

2010-09-01T10:12:00.002-05:00

Another day, more visits from friends and family.

Such a happy sister!

A happy family.

Finally home!

Not even home for a few hours and Clare places a dino in Lydia's hands....and she hangs onto it for a long time!

Clare and Gma Pat made welcome home signs for our doors!

Lydia Maeve Arrives! 8.3.10

2010-09-01T09:35:00.004-05:00

Wow! What a day this was. Lydia Maeve arrived at exactly 9:30 in the morning of a very hot August day! She was 3 weeks early and only 5lbs 7oz and 19-1/4" long. A very little peanut! But, she was beautiful and healthy, and that's what matters.

Lydia is Greek and means "noble one".
Maeve (pron. May-v) is Irish and there was a Queen Maeve, and means "intoxicating".
Lydia's name was picked out during the Easter weekend. Coincidentally, she happened to be born on St Lydia's feast day. Go figure.

Okay, most are unaware of what exactly happened to me following Lydia's birth. To spare you the gory details, here it is in a nutshell. I hemorraged following her birth, and after 2 hours of trying to get the bleeding to stop, I went into shock. To save my life, a blood transfusion was started and I was whisked off to the OR to get the bleeding to stop. After 2 hours in the OR, I was back in my room, but in critical condition; did the surgery stop the bleeding? would my kidneys shut down? or both? I was given 6 bags of red blood and 4 bags of "fresh frozen platelets" as a result. If one or the other happened, I would have to go into surgery and my prognosis would be slim. THANKFULLY, neither did. I am here, and eternally grateful to my doctor and medical staff at Barnes Jewish Hospital; they are life-savers.

Lydia's first few moments.

Daddy is the first one to hold her.

Me following surgery. All swaddled like Lydia! Guess we're making a fashion statement by dressing alike! :) Seriously, my body temp was so low due to blood loss, that I was wrapped up in lots of blankets.

First time holding my new daughter...over 4 hours since she was born.

So peaceful!

Clare and Lydia meeting each other for the first time! Although there wasn't supposed to be any visitors under the age of 14, my nurse let Clare come in.

The 4 of us.

Clare getting to hold her lil' sis.

Singing to Lydia.

Proud Grandma Pat!

Friends Guy and Chris visiting!

My "hero": my nurse, Christine, who was there the entire day and was wonderful. She deserves a big raise!

Baby Par-tay!

2010-08-30T11:05:00.003-05:00

Although I was sent home from the hospital on bedrest, I joined my girlfriends for a baby party. Time with good friends is good for the bp, right? We were supposed to go to dinner and then to a hotel to spend the night, but due to my bp issues, we just did dinner. We had a wonderful time!

At Trattoria Marcella with Nancy, Angie, me, (Celeste who had to leave), Kirsten, Mary Lisa, Rhonda, and Susie.

A Barnes-Jewish Vacation

2010-08-30T11:02:00.003-05:00

After a routine OB visit, it was found that my blood pressure was severely high. I was admitted to Barnes-Jewish Hospital for 24 hour observation and tests. Toby was in Italy, I get to go to BJH! Thankfully, my parents were in town to be with Clare.

Clare gets me a get well balloon!

Clare's Big Sister Class

2010-08-30T10:58:00.002-05:00

We took Clare to a Super Sibling's Class on 7.25.10. She was the oldest one there AND the only girl. Although she was hesitant to go (she already knew everything about being a big sister), she certainly had a ton of fun!

Practicing holding a baby doll.

Getting a backpack and a coloring book. Too fun!

Trip to Pere Marquette

2010-08-30T10:51:00.002-05:00

We took a fast trip to Pere Marquette State Park just across the state line into IL. We wanted a little family vacation before the baby comes and before Toby leaves for Italy. We had a wonderful time.

Walking around the small, cute town of Grafton right on the Mississippi.

Playing the piano in the Great Room.

We played life-sized chess many times! Too fun! Outside on the "porch"of Pere Marquette Lodge.

Clare is great at checkers! The Great Room has tons of games to play. It was nice having family game time.

ANOTHER tooth

2010-08-30T10:49:00.002-05:00

After eating a banana, a 3rd tooth comes out! There are 2 other really loose teeth. The toothfairy needs a loan!

The Terrible Two-Tooth Tumble

2010-07-10T17:33:00.002-05:00

July 6th, 2010. Clare was climbing head-first off our bed, and to get down on the floor, she brought her knees in and socked herself in the mouth with her knees. The bottom tooth was really loose and that got knocked totally out. The top tooth was just getting loose and was only knocked partially out. Toby was teaching night class (thankfully, or the sight of all the blood probably would've made him pass out, and then I would've really had my hands full), and I had no idea what to do. Is it a doctor issue? ER? I knew dentist offices were closed. After a call to a pediatrician friend, her own pediatrician, and her pedontist, the pedontist talked me through it and scheduled her for an emergency appointment first thing the next morning. The dentist had to end up pulling the top tooth. Clare was such a trooper through the whole thing! The toothfairy came twice in 2 days.

Actually, it's a secret, but Clare is training with the NHL. She'll go pro next year. :)

Using my toothfairy pillow that I had when I was little. Getting ready for visit #2 from the good ol' TF.

Turkey Run State Park

2010-07-10T17:22:00.004-05:00

We stayed at Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, IN at Turkey Run Inn. This area has 39 well-preserved covered bridges. The Inn was built in 1919. We really enjoyed it.

A Jurassic Park pinball machine in the arcade. She couldn't have been happier.

Clare, who first saw me putting Jenga together said, "ugh, this is going to be BORING". Little did she know, it'd become a favorite! The big "den" at the Inn had it to play.

Some game time after dinner and swimming.

Covered bridge, which you could not drive on, but it was fun walking through.

Outside the window of the bridge.

A spooky drive through the next one!

The Inn at night.

4th of July Weekend in Angola, IN

2010-07-10T16:56:00.006-05:00

We went to Angola, IN for the weekend. We saw Toby's mom, Pat, and Stepdad, Mel, and Toby's brother Tyler and his family. We had good swimming, good fun, good food, and good company.

A visit to Granny Winright (Toby's grandma) and Aunt Bonnie

Crooked Lake Beach--so nice! We had a lot of fun.

Working hard!

A visit to Grandma Hug.

Cousin Maymie (10) and Clare having a race in Gma Pat's backyard.

Father and daughter enjoying some time together.

Maymie and Clare catching loads of fireflies.

Riding "Sable" at Pokagon State Park. The ponies were all taken, so she got to ride a big horse. She was thrilled.

Mmmmmm....ice cream.

A trip to Tom's Donuts; they are too good.

A stop at Sam's for a Mose Hopper. Clare has a MOSEtasche.

Cousin Maymie and Clare....you can tell they're related!

Another trip to Crooked Lake and another sandcastle.

The family mingling at the beach.

Fireworks in Gma's backyard. Maymie, Merceides (17), and Clare.

Fish Folly

2010-07-04T08:08:00.002-05:00

July 3, 2010
Clare told everyone that she was going to fish out of Grandma Pat's "pond". She announced, "I'm going to go fishing. Catch and release, that is."

Beach Blabber

2010-07-04T08:07:00.004-05:00

July 3, 2010
Clare told the kids at the beach, "I'm 5. My dad is 45. He could be a grandpa right now, but he's not; he's my dad." Looks like sunblock blocks everything but the mouth.

Animal Crackers Can Really Make a Girl Cry

2010-06-21T22:03:00.003-05:00

I had gotten Clare a box of the good ol' Barnums Animal Crackers in the box with the string. She ate a few and then began crying very large tears. When I asked her what was wrong (thinking that one hurt her loose tooth) she said, "I just ate a bear. Do you think that's okay?" I think my little animal rights activist/future PETA President has gone a little too far.

Clare, MS (mad scientist)

2010-06-21T22:02:00.001-05:00

Clare was in her room was really engaged in play. When I asked her what she was playing she said, "I'm harvesting DNA so that I can make new animals for Scooby Doo and the gang". Huh?

Tilles Park Fun Run 6-4-10

2010-06-13T21:54:00.003-05:00

Clare loves running races and was excited to do the Tilles Park Fun Run one early Saturday morning. This park is only 1.5 miles from our house, and Clare affectionately calls it, "Marshmallow Park". Although it was early, the air was thick; standing was all the effort you needed to put forth to make you sweat. We were joined by friends Allison, Andrew, Theo, and Mia.
Clare and little buddy Allison.

STRETCH!

Clare coming in dead last, but was still proud of herself.

So proud of getting a ribbon.

Friends Andrew and Theo.

Free snowcones afterwards...could it get any better?

Memorial Day Weekend with Pat and Mel

2010-06-13T21:40:00.004-05:00

It was great having Pat and Mel visit us! We all kept very busy.

Walking around SLU's campus.

The Science Center!!!

Grandparents and Clare (aka T-Rex food).

Molly's in Soulard; in a cabana enjoying some cold drinks and playing Uno.

Exploring around The Lemp Mansion---one of the top 10 most haunted houses in the US.

Somewhere UNDER the Rainbow

2010-06-13T21:36:00.000-05:00

On to Kindergarten

2010-06-13T13:19:00.002-05:00

Clare's last day of preschool........(sniffle, sniffle)

Summer in the Lou

2010-06-13T12:54:00.006-05:00

We enjoy our old, historic neighbhorhood and patronizing the local businesses. Summer is a great time to get out and enjoy our fellow neighbors.

La Tropicana is a Cuban, Caribbean market and restaurant. We love eating there, especially outside when they have live music.

Clare making a friend, Sydney, and Sydney teaching Clare a dance.

Something's funny.....

Enjoying Tower Grove Park, which is at the end of our street, and is the 2nd largest city in the park. In the middle of the park, there are two playgrounds with fountains to play in and a wading pool. On Saturdays, May-October there is a Farmer's Market next to the playground with local produce. Saturday mornings, we usually have lots of fun, all within walking distance of our house.

She learned to swing all by herself a few months ago. It is now a favorite activity of hers.

Performers from Circus Flora showed off their talents at the Farmer's Market.

Toby's Tenure Party at the Royale

2010-06-13T10:47:00.002-05:00

It was supposed to be a rainy evening, but it turned out to be beautiful. We had Toby's (along with the 2 other professors who also got tenure, Trey and Ruben) tenure party at the Royale. The Royale is our 2nd home and just a block and 1/2 from our house. Steve Smith, the owner, treated Toby, Ruben, and Brian to this party; and we were treated like royalty.

Guests enjoying great food and drink.

What a spread!!! Appetizers like hummus, veggies, and pita bread; spinach and artichoke dip with chips; grilled pineapple, fresh salad. Shrimp skewers and ribs from the grill.

Sitting back and relaxing while Clare plays with the other kids.

The 3 tenure guys: Trey, Ruben, and Toby.

Mother's Day '10

2010-06-13T10:08:00.005-05:00

I had a wonderful Mother's Day. The weather was perfect, so we took a nice walk around St Louis University's (SLU) campus. We walked around the ponds and then stopped at Llewelyn's in the Central West End to have dessert.

Feeding the fish in one of SLU's ponds. She's such an animal lover that she was petting them and trying to catch a few.

Tree climber.

stopping to watch a softball practice.

On your marks.....get set.....

GO!

Hanging out at Llewelyn's!

Clare's Creative Corpus

2010-06-13T09:57:00.002-05:00

Clare had her teacher trace her body, painted it, and then added anecdotes about her senses. She took a while to finish this, but had a great time doing it.

"I use my brain to think. I like to think about dinosaurs. I use my imagination to pretend I'm a dinosaur. I use my imagination to think about what my baby brother/sister might be like. When it's Easter I think she might try to take my Easter candy. " (Ahhhh, the worries of a 5 year old.)

"I use my mouth for eating a piece of broccoli. I use my eyes for looking outside the window to see the houses and stuff. I use my ears to listen to Harry Potter music. I use my nose to smell cinnamon."

"I use my arms for eating and drawing. I use them for climbing. I grab onto the climber and I pull. I use my arms for drinking. I use my arms to throw balls into my basketball hoop."

"I use my hands for grabbing a ball. I use my hand for crafts, art, beads, gluing. I use my hand to my daddy make coffee."

"I use my legs and feet to kick the soccer ball. I like to run a face. I use my legs to run and play tag and chase at school with my friends."

Sundays with Neighbors

2010-05-03T11:23:00.003-05:00

We've started a habit of getting together with both sets of neighbors every Sunday (we live in between both sets). Each Sunday, it's at a different house. This past Sunday was our turn, and we had a great time! It ended up being a beautiful evening. We had great food, drinks, and conversation; we even ended up in tears from laughing so hard. We look forward to the next one.
Steve, Adrienne, (Clare), Chad, and Farida. (Where's Elam???)

Happy Tenure Cake

2010-05-03T11:19:00.003-05:00

Toby received the official word that he got tenure! Nine years in the making and lots of publishing (in addition to excellent teaching), this is a huge accomplishment! Clare made her dad a Happy Tenure Cake, candles included.

Toby with his official letter.

Swimming Clare

2010-05-03T10:46:00.003-05:00

This is Clare's first round of swimming lessons ever. She really loves them, and is happy to be joined by her good friend Andrew. They are the only two kids in the class, which is great because of the special attention they get. She is hesitant to try some things--like jumping off the ledge into the deep end--but she does end up trying and then is proud of herself.

Andrew and Clare learning how to doggy paddle.

In the deep end, learning how to jump in, and then how to be able to climb out all by themselves.

Splash!

Listening to their teacher, Miss Meghan, talk about safety.

Bedtime Voicemail

2010-05-03T10:44:00.004-05:00

Liz: "Clare, it's bedtime."
Clare: "I'm sorry, but you've reached Clare's voicemail."

The Tooth Fairy will Visit Soon

2010-04-26T11:22:00.003-05:00

Clare has around 6 loose teeth! Better notify the Tooth Fairy to take out loan to pay for them all!

Ultrasound 4/22

2010-04-26T11:16:00.003-05:00

We had a 2nd ultrasound this past week, and everything looked great, including the heart. Whatta relief! This child is proving to be a stinker like their big sis, and not cooperating much during the ultrasounds. Although, s/he took some time to wave and say, "hey Clare" during part of it. The baby is 1 pound 1oz.

Clare with pics, baby card, and sucker in hand is a happy big-sis-to-be.

We're Baaaaackk!

2010-04-23T11:52:00.004-05:00

It's been close to a year since I've posted anything. With all of the relatives on Facebook, it seemed redundant to post updates on both. But now, with not everyone on Facebook wanting or needing to hear every update about our family, I've decided to come back to blogspot. This way, you can check out updates when you want, not having them being thrown at you on Facebook.

Where-oh-where Could those Easter Eggs be?

2009-04-27T08:17:00.004-05:00

Easter in Ohio

2009-04-26T21:31:00.003-05:00

We spent Easter in Cuyahoga Falls, OH with Aunt Linda and Uncle Bob. We had a nice dinner and a relaxing day.

Here are 2 actual Winright family portraits. :)

Coloring the eggs with a special marker before dying them is extra fun (and messy).

"Look, there's where the Easter Bunny hid my basket!"

Peee-Ewwww...he even hid one in her shoe.

Helping the beloved cousin Anne make "present" rolls (aka crescent rolls) for Easter dinner.

Toby's Bday

2009-04-25T19:55:00.002-05:00

Clare had a wonderful time making daddy's birthday cake, and even put the candles on all by herself!
She made yellow and blue (Notre Dame) colors for the frosting.

Ta-da!

The Puddle Jumper

2009-04-25T19:48:00.003-05:00

After a nice warm March rain, Clare got to put on her boots and go stompin'. Sometimes, it's the little things.....

La Fheile Padraig (Happy St Patrick's Day in Irish)

2009-03-19T20:42:00.002-05:00

We started celebrating St Patrick's Day on Saturday, March 14th by going to O'Malley's to hear live, traditional Irish music. Clare liked the songs from her "homeland".

Captured her enjoying herself.

Having a snuggle with daddy (I think someone's a little tired).

Tuesday, March 17th on our way to the Dogtown Parade with our friend Alex. (Dogtown=Irish section of STL where thousands of people go on St Patty's Day.)

Okay, so probably not a good pic to have your kid holding a bottle of whiskey, but they didn't know what it was and had fun pretending to be leprechauns.

Thousands upon thousands of people. The parade go-ers were 5 rows deep.

Striking a pose to sport her Irish garb.

There's our beautiful Irish lass.

Later that day......to the Royale (our favorite neighborhood hang-out) to hear more Irish music. Apparently, the harpist is in the top 5 of Irish harpists in the world.

Both of us enjoying the day and the festivities.

St Patty's Festivities Video

2009-03-19T20:26:00.003-05:00

Sat, March 14th at O'Malley's listening to live Irish music and Clare trying to get the clapping parts right.

This is our Irish Lass O'Dancin' to live Irish music on St Patty's Day!

Bowling-videos

2009-03-14T20:16:00.004-05:00

Bowling's Right Up her Alley!

2009-03-14T20:08:00.002-05:00

This morning, Clare saw a commercial for bowling and decided that that's what she wanted to do since she had never been bowling before. Since it was Toby's spring break, he managed to take a little time out to go bowling with us. We went to Flamingo Bowl, which is downtown STL. This is the the average bowling alley--they serve sandwiches, appetizers, and martinis! We had a really good time and Clare loved it! She bowled a pretty good 67!

"Go ball go! Go ball go!"

Waiting to see the knock-down.

So happy!

Jumping and cheering with excitement!

SLU Women's Basketball Game

2009-03-14T11:53:00.002-05:00

On Weds, 2/25, we took Clare to a SLU women's basketball game at SLU's new arena. We stayed the entire game (we were surprised Clare lasted as long as she did). We had a really nice time.
Seats really close to the action!

"Defense, defense" Clare would yell no matter who had the ball!

She loves that Billiken.

Resting on her daddy's shoulder. Way past someone's bedtime. Toby usually goes to bed at 8:00. :-)

Clare's "neighbor" birthday party

2009-02-23T20:56:00.004-06:00

This past Sunday (2/22), we had Clare's annual "neighbor" party, where we invite our close neighbors, but we're finding that our definition of "neighbor" is branching out into other parts of the city. See the video at the bottom.
A very happy guest of honor.

Dancing with Chris.

At her request, Liz made a yellow T-Rex cake with red polka dots.

Opening presents with the help of neighbor-friend Abby.

Clare entertaining our newest neighbor Elam (3mos).

(L-R) Abby, Clare, Chris, and Annette (Clare's babysitter)

(L-R) Chad, Jeffrey, Carrie, and Phil

4 Years of Clare

2009-02-23T20:47:00.002-06:00

The "real" birthday....

Happy 1st!

2nd.....

3rd.....

4th

Interview with an Almost Four-Year Old

2009-02-21T21:17:00.004-06:00

I think this speaks for itself.

Happy 4th Birthday Clare!!!

2009-02-21T21:02:00.004-06:00

I can't believe our baby is 4!!! Where has the time gone? We had a busy morning. It was off to playgroup to celebrate her birthday--with a TRex cake and a pinata. Then, it was also her good friend, Anna's, birthday party--coincidentally, Anna had a dinosaur party, too! No wonder they're such good friends. After the party, we were greeted back home by Gma Jeanne and Gpa Larry who arrived from Des Moines to help celebrate her birthday. Clare was all smiles and had a wonderful birthday!!!
Waking up to find a T-Rex balloon and a dinosaur birthday bag of gifts!

"I LOVE these! Thank you, thank you!"

Birthday party at playgroup. The pinata was a big hit (pun intended).

She picked El Paesan's Mexican restaurant for her birthday. She got to wear a sombrero and this man serenaded her! She said, "this is what makes a birthday happy."

Patiently waiting to open gifts (while daddy goes back to the restaurant to retrieve a certain lost blankie). Enjoying grandpa as he reads her a new book!

More Bday Weekend Fun!

2009-02-21T20:47:00.007-06:00

Clare had her mind set that she was going to take Gma Jeanne and Gpa Larry to see (A T-Rex Named) Sue exhibit at our Science Center. So, off we went on Saturday morning!

Can barely see Clare as she is dwarfed by Sue.

The paleontologist at work: chipping away at REAL dino bones.

Liz and Toby had a fun that weekend, too. Tickets to see Joel McHale!

It was so nice to have Gma Jeanne and Gpa Larry babysit while we have a (much needed) Valentine's night out to see Joel McHale.

Unfortunately, Toby ended up with a stomach bug the next day and we had to postpone Clare's annual neighbor birthday party. To pass the time, Gma, Gpa, Clare and I went to the zoo! It was kid's day (when is it NOT kids day at the zoo??) and Clare got her face painted.

TA-DA!

American Idol, Season 20

2009-02-19T20:38:00.004-06:00

Right now, American Idol is in Season 8. By the time Clare is 18, they'll be on Season 20, so I thought we'd by-pass the long audition lines and get this sent in way ahead of time. (She had no idea I was taping her while she was singing in the bath. She says "sorry" to her dinosaur who she accidentally drops out of the tub.)

Gymnastics Girl

2009-02-19T20:25:00.002-06:00

Clare is now in tumbling at the Y every Thursday morning. It's the highlight of the week!

Warming up. (Our future Olympian is in black.)

Waiting patiently for her turn and showing her goofy side.

Being a diligent student and listening carefully.

This trick was tough at first....

Looks so easy!

Not gonna be tightrope walking any time soon.

No Business Like Snow Business

2009-02-19T20:17:00.003-06:00

We didn't get our first measurable snow until the end of January, so we took full advantage of it while it lasted (3 days).

We had planned on making a regular ol' snowman, but after we were almost done, Clare decided to make a snow Scooby Doo. She is adding one of his ears.

Not quite done.......

"I love him, he's my best buddy." Not sure if this is sweet or sweetly tragic. Does she know that her best buddy will see a watery demise? Maybe we should give her that sister named Daffodil after all.

Our hard work finished!

Chi-town (Jan 8-11)

2009-01-16T22:21:00.004-06:00

We visited the Windy City as T had a conference there. Clare was very excited to go and I was looking forward to seeing a friend I've had for 21 years, but hadn't seen in 10! The city managed to get 12" of snow while we were there, which made getting around interesting since we hadn't brought our boots or any snow gear (the weather report didn't happen to mention a threat of a blizzard....), and I guess the one thing that I didn't stick with me from Girl Scouts was "always be prepared."
It was so great to see Kate who now lives in Chicago. Clare enjoyed her, too!

Clare took our picture for us and was delighted that she got asked to do such a "big girl" thing.

On Saturday evening, T was at a work dinner, so we met up with our friends Emily (the mom), Zeke (4) and Agnes (2) and took the El to the Rainforest Cafe.

Patiently (and very hungry) awaiting the next train.

Watch out Clare! I think you're about to be snake food!

Taking a minute to look down at the robotic growling crocodile.

Okay, so us moms opted for the volcano dessert. The kids deserved it after such a crazy trip to the place.

On Sunday morning, Clare and I went to the Shedd Aquarium. We enjoyed it, but it was jam-packed. Her main agenda was to see the seahorses and the hammerhead sharks; both of which she accomplished.

She loved watching the rays swim and all of the beautiful tropical fish. Most of the fish would swim up to her, some would even follow her, which became an eerie occurence throughout the morning. Is she the fish-whisperer?

Good thing this guy didn't take an interest in her. The Anaconda, which was around 20' long! She took an interest in him, though, and said, "I love snakes."

Ciao!

2009-01-07T19:26:00.004-06:00

Tobias has been chosen to receive a fellowship to do research and write in Trent, Italy this summer. Right now, it looks like he will be there for the month of June (and he may just have 2 stow-aways with him). Ciao!

Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa's!

2009-01-01T14:25:00.005-06:00

On 12.26, we headed for Des Moines to Gma Jeanne's and Gpa Larry's house for some more Christmas celebrations. Clare was very eager to see her cousins!

Gma's 3 granddaughters.....sorry Emily, that you were sick.....Katie (10), Gma, Clare, and Megan (10).

Clare couldn't miss the being involved with Katie and Megan's instrumental concert.

Sneaking a smile at mom.

THE COUSINS!!! Back row: Megan (10), Jason (17), Will (14), Christopher (15)

Middle row: Katie (10), Emily (14). Front row: Clare (3-3/4)

Clare's impromptu "Rudolph" solo.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T16:24:00.003-06:00

Clare was so excited when she went to bed that night, that I expected her to be up at the crack of dawn, but she slept 'til almost 8:00am. When she woke up, the first thing she said was, "it's Christmas Day!"
Seeing her toys from Santa!

"Can I really unwrap it?"

Dinosaurs.....big surprise.

Already playing with the first present before she opens the others.

Friends and Christmas Eve

2008-12-30T16:04:00.004-06:00

We enjoyed being with our St Louis "family" on Christmas Eve. The Kesselring's (Jason, Sonia, and their 2 kids, Andrew and Allison) invited us over to their house so that we wouldn't have to spend CE alone. We had a really great time at their house with good food and good company!
Getting the cookie and carrot plates ready for Santa and the reindeer's visit.

Daddy and Clare enjoying How the Grinch Stole Christmas as Sonia reads it.

Clare digs dinosaurs---literally! Our good friends, Guy and Chris, spoiled her with a paleontology kit, which included a block of sand with dinosaur bones to find!

"Hellllllooooo, can you see me?" The kit also included a paleontologist's outfit.

Clare's Christmas Concert 12.18.08

2008-12-21T19:59:00.007-06:00

Clare's first ever Christmas concert (preschool) was a fun-had-by-all event. Clare made quite an impression on the audience, to say the least. Below is a link to the concert, if you wanna see what kind of a character she is. Yes, the laughing in the background is at her....well...not at her, with her...maybe? (This video is from our friends who happened to be in the front row taping their daughter a few kids away from Clare.) Everyone said that Clare's reminiscent of Mary Katherine Gallagher (Molly Shannon's character on Saturday Night Live). The picture's a little grainy...Clare is the one with the red sweater, white t-shirt, black plaid skirt. Yes, she bows at the end. I love the juxtaposition of happy, singing Clare with the crying, singing girl next to her.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8275666180482481661&hl=en

Anxiously awaiting their place on stage.

Giddy.

Clare and Greta enjoying their conversation.

A proud momma of a reinClare.

Clare's Christmas story she wrote.

Can't stop being silly. Enjoying some good cookies.

Good friend (and classmate, Jacques,) joins Clare in the cookie gobbling.

BONUS--ding--ding--ding! A visit from Santa.

Clare on stage, smack-dab in the middle.

Nollaig Shona Dhuit! (Merry Christmas in Irish/Gaelic)

2008-12-21T19:49:00.004-06:00

We visited The Kerry Cottage here in STL on Dec 14th. This was a very cordial Irish Santa who talked to Clare for quite awhile. She enjoyed it!

Listening intently to what he has to say.

Telling him the things that she wants (and doesn't want).

Clare's Sillies

2008-12-06T16:14:00.002-06:00

--Attention: Clare is NOT getting a sister named Tallulah. She's getting a sister named Daffodil.

--One of her preschool teachers used the word "butt" and Clare piped up and said, "butt's not that nice of a word, please choose a better one."

Breakfast with Santa 12.6.08

2008-12-06T16:08:00.003-06:00

Clare's preschool had a breakfast with Santa, and we couldn't get to the school fast enough because "Santa's got lots of other girls and boys to see"; Clare certainly did not want to miss out.

She climbed right up without hesitation.

Oops, she'd already gotten down before she realized that she hadn't told him what she wanted. Apparently, unbeknownst to mommy, her list has changed!

When we left, she ran over, hugged him and told him, "I'll have cookies and milk waiting for you. Have a safe flight back to the North Pole."

Parade in Montpelier, OH

2008-12-06T15:56:00.004-06:00

Aunt Bonnie got awarded "Citizen of the Year" in Montpelier. So, she got to ride in the Montpelier Christmas Parade and asked Clare (and me and Toby) if we'd like to ride with her. It was an honor and a good time!

Awaiting Bonnie's chariot.

Aunt Bonnie looking gorgeous as usual.

Hanging out until it's our turn to jump in the line.

Cold, but happy.

Toboggan at Potawatomi

2008-12-06T15:44:00.005-06:00

Potawatomi Inn has an old 1/4 mile toboggan run, which we've been talking about doing for years, but have never done it....until now.....

Clare had this as "first to do" on the agenda for the morning. The slide behind Toby and Clare is the first part of the slide.

Touching the her first snow of the season.

At the end with our large toboggan. We went about 30mph on it and Clare loved every minute. Daddy screamed, but Clare didn't!

It's lonely at the bottom.

Other Ohio Fun!

2008-12-06T14:42:00.006-06:00

Clare (and the rest of us) had a great time enjoying all the things at Potawatomi Inn!

Playing air hockey with cousin Wyatt in the game room.

Painting a toy airplane (she could've spent all day in the craft room). It was nice that Gma Pat could join us! Thanks Grandma!

Two happy cousins.

Working very diligently.

"Look, there it is!"

Trying to do a 500-piece dinosaur puzzle in the hotel's library....but pieces were missing....darn it (wink, wink)!

Clare found a cozy chair by the fireplace to enjoy some pre-bedtime stories.

Thanksgiving in Blakeslee, OH

2008-12-06T14:30:00.005-06:00

Another great Thanksgiving in Blakeslee with a surprise show-up of Tyler and company!

A tryptophan induced smile. Will you all quit avoiding the camera and smile? Thanks Morganne!

Clare and Maymie at the craft table!

Could be sisters.

Some of the Winright crew (sans Tim and Wyatt...the showed up later).

November Leaves

2008-11-25T09:13:00.002-06:00

This past Sunday, it was a gorgeous 55 degrees. (Gorgeous temps are relative this time of year.) Clare spent some QT with daddy playing and helping rake leaves. She's a great helper, and it's nice to have free manual labor....until she learns the word "allowance". It was a great time had by Clare and daddy--lots of laughs, smiles, and giggles.

Being goofy and unable to take a nice, smiling picture. She even has daddy's sunglasses on her head.
Ready......Set......

Go!!!!!!!!

Goofy, silly face.

Ah, finally, a genuine smile....only after daddy told her a knock-knock joke.

I told my friend that I loved her baby's toothless grin....now she tries to do one, too.

Getting swallowed into the belly of the leaf pile.

Helpin' out!