An Incomplete Education

As Bill Gates said, "If our public schools were run like a business, they would all be bankrupt." I agree with the Gates' assessment of our public school. Our schools are in dire need of serious reform.

Ashish and I do our part to help and support our community as we want it to be a great place to live. It's not only disappointing to wittiness the system fail, but frustrating as a parent. When it comes to our children, we need to be proactive and do what we feel is best for them. I don't think that many current school districts have the best interest of the children as a first priority.

I personally wanted to see where our state stands in regard to education- standards and the system that evaluates those standards- so I recently started contacting our representatives for answers. We also are seeking to hear what other parents in our situation have expressed. That is, parents that choose to enroll their children in the private sector because district in which they pay taxes in doesn't meet academic standards, doesn't promote an environment conducive for learning and offer progressive opportunities. Which some people may agree or disagree with. We obviously feel strongly about it.

We had friends in last week that are educating their daughter at an excellent Montessori school in the Chicagoland area. It was interesting for me to listen to their experiences in regard to grants, vouchers and contacting their elected officials over the matter. Claire, who is in grade school, has been Montessori educated since pre-school. This year her parents will be paying $10,000 for her academic year. Claire's parents tried to enroll Clarie in a top notch Chicago Lab School for a 3-week summer school session (ironically the same school Obama's daughters attend), and it was a little over $1,500 for three weeks. Furthermore, for Nursery School (Half Day) $11,442, Nursery/Kindergarten (Full Day) $16,674, Grades 1 - 4 is $18,492, Grades 5 - 8 is $20,286 and Grades 9 - 12 is $21,480. I would think those numers would be depressing for any 'average' or even upper middle class family.

So why have I gotten my soap box out...again? Well, I as a parent, advocate of children and lover of all types of minds, I am seeing more and more of a great divide in our country in regard to education. Those obviously with the means will go to the best schools available, which leaves the rest of the children in less desirable school districts that have administrators, that despite increased funding, can't manage.

During the 2008-09 school year, our district will receive $8,257 per student in general education revenue from state and local sources, compared with a statewide average of $9,063. State funding is $7,436 per student, compared to a statewide average of $8,182. Referenda revenue totals $821 per student, compared to a state average of $881. After viewing the "general Fund" and summary from our district, I put it in terms that were concrete to me. This means a classroom of 25 kids equals to the amount of $206,425. A Classroom of 30 kids equals to $257,710. Yet, administration can not manage a classroom on that budget and asks for more funds.

Likewise, Ashish and I will not only be paying taxes into the school district in which we live, but we will be paying a tuition fee of $6,000 for 9-months, Monday through Friday, 3 hours a day, toward a Montessori pre-school. This, of course, doesn't include a $200 material fee, $50 application fee, active participation and volunteering in the community, supplies, etc.

Ashish and I wish there was a grant, voucher or tax break for those that take their children out of district to educate them. This doesn't mean that people still wouldn't pay taxes to the district, however there could be a percentage applied to the district of choice and parents would be responisble to make up the difference. I know we are not alone when I say that we are don't want the government to tell us how our children should be educated. We also don't want to subscribe to the idea that our current school district is good enough, "will do" or hope and pray that things will be okay and work out fine.

I for one, was educated in a mediocre public school. If it was good enough for me, it is good enough for our children, right? Wrong. Having worked in both private (Montessori) environments and public, I know there is a distinct difference. Public school with it's 'quick to label' system (remember, the more labels a school has- ESL, LD, even gifted, mean the more funds it receives) of over-crowded classrooms and low-expectations is not what we want to subject our children to.

Learning is a natural process- enrollment in school should be a natural one too. This is our new quest. To seek answers about education in our state and push for freedom of choice- whether that be private, public or home based. This doesn't mean that we judge people accordingly as to how they choose to educate their children- as we hope you don't 'judge' us. It simply means that this is something that is important to us...

Some things I have since learned:
When children reach the ages of the K-12 system, Minnesota's education tax credit and deduction provides limited help to families, as do Aids to Nonpublic Students that help offset some costs related to transportation, textbooks and counseling.

Once of kindergarten age, the state also has extensive school choice options that open up many public options to your family outside your resident borders for no charge. Many such options will require you to provide transportation however.

Legislation in some states has created tax breaks for contributions to scholarship funds that can then be awarded to help fund educational expenses for families in both traditional private schools and in public school programs where fees or tuition is charged. In Minnesota, the advocacy group that has taken a lead in advocating for such legislation is the Minnesota Independent School Forum.

Lanterns & Birthdays

Konnichiha (pronounced as konnichiwa, "hello" in Japanese)!

As parents, we hope to rear compassionate, loving, generous children- not just life long learners. The essence of the well-rounded individual... I see the process beginning to form with Nishad. There have been so many moments when my heart beams with pride. Already, he speaks softly, with kind and gentle words and is so careful not to hurt any one's feelings intentionally. Today, while at the Japanese Lantern Lighting Festival in Saint Paul, I told him of how I always wanted a 'twisty' sucker, but my parents never gave me one. He looked at me with those big,brown eyes filled with love and compassion and said, "Momma, you can get one. Have a lick from mine." I took him up on that offer- and we both laughed after.

This was our first year attending the Japanese Lantern Lighting Festival, although it's been charted on our calender since April! We planned out entire summer out in advance this year as we had such a long winter- we wanted to soak up as much of the summer as possible. We will definitely be saving the date for next year's festival! This was an amazing festival and cultural buffet for the mind! There were so many people from varying backgrounds. Wonderful performers delighted audiences, Japanese traditional clothing and crafts abound and amazing food to satisfy any crowd. We had sushi (salmon, shrimp), Inar (a type of sweet rice and tofu served in a type of pastry boat), vegetable egg roll, vegetable rice, crab ragoon, chicken on a skewer (hot, hot, hot and a little sweet!) and too much green tea! Nishad had a blast playing the Japanese fish game (He won a train and a mat for the train- surely made in China, though from the Japanese festival!). Both boys really enjoyed the Japanese drums. Anything that involves music and they are instantly captivated. There was a traditional lion dance that Nishad and I went up close to watch. I gave Nishad a dollar to feed the lion.

Here's where my faith in humanity has been fully restored, by the act of another small boy, who was about the age of 9 or 10. We were standing waiting to feed the lion (as anyone wanting good-luck would do!) and a ton of kids crowded around us (the lion was headed for Nishad) and pushed by. Being that we try to teach Nishad not to be obnoxious, loud, or rude, I simply held his hand and silently thought, "Ok, obviously we will all get a chance to 'feed' the lion" without pushing our way forth. Just then this boy grabs Nishad's hand and announces, "Make way please! We're coming through to feed the lion. We have money to give the lion." Just like that, kids moved...it was like the parting of the sea...Not knowing who this other child was, I let go of Nishad's hand, taking a breath and I trusted that things would be okay. Just as I got a little nervous that my baby, who was towered over by a lot of bigger kids, would be pushed or stepped on (as the crowd started growing again and pushing forward), I heard a voice say, "Make way please! We are done feeding the lion and need to step out of every ones way." I suddenly saw this boy appear, with Nishad in tow. Nishad then told me about how he fed the lion and how he put his fingers in the lions mouth. To 'feed' the lion brings good luck upon you. Many returns to that little boy befriended Nishad.

On to the Lamp Lighting! We staked out a spot prior to the event by leaving our blankets in front. Our view didn't disappoint. What a beautiful ceremony. As a matter of fact, I was so surprised when I Nishad and I approached the man that lit lanterns to find him so friendly. He had a nice little conversation with Nishad and even spoke in Hindi to him (he knew some Japanese too). Nishad instantly put his hand together when he said, "Namaste" after we explained that the name Nishad is a Hindi name, meaning the note of "Ni" in Hindi, which converted on the Western musical scale is "Ti." He told Nishad how beautiful and unique his name is and Nishad had such a proud smile.

Later, during the ceremony, I walked over to take a picture. The same man turned to me as he was lowering lanterns into the water after lighting them and said, "Is there anyone that you would like to dedicate a lantern to in memory of?" My heart smiled with this gesture as my eyes began to swell with the out pour of emotion. "Yes, my mother, Wanda," I said. In such a peaceful and respectful voice, he raised the lantern and said, "This one is for Wanda." I watched her lantern drift, until I couldn't see the outline of the lantern anymore- only the light from the lantern was visible. (Her lantern is pictured with the man placing it into the water.)

Ashish and I were such late night owls! Reminded me of our dating days. We haven't been out this late with the kids, since before Arun was born. We stopped over at Taco Bell on the way home and looked at one another while waiting in the drive-through, "We haven't been here in a LONG time!" Yes, it was at least 2 years. We were back by 10PM. All in all a GREAT day.

We had two birthday parties this weekend! On Saturday we went to Elm Creek to celebrate Jaxson's birthday- Nishad's friend who lives down the block. He turned 3 years old. We always enjoy seeing the Bean's and their family is so nice to chat with. Jaxson shared his new toys with Nishad and they "drove" them all around the park. Both Nishad and Arun needed baths by the time we came home!

Today, we also celebrated another friend's birthday that lives down the block, Baby Lucas! Who is no longer a baby as he is now on the go, go, go and 1! Lucas sure isn't short on supplies for toys! Nishad knew exactly where his house was as there was a big bouncy house in front. They are another family that has such nice relatives that made us feel right at home- such gracious people.

PS Check out the upside down draggon in the cloud picture? :)

Fast Times in August

After a whirlwind of excitement, I'm finally back to tend to my 'garden.'

The weekend seemingly evaporated before our eyes- as most weekends do. We've not had the air conditioning on in days...an all too familiar reminder that a change of season is about to take place. Days are definitely shorter. As I watch my annuals begin to dwindle away, I feel positive that we did so much this summer, but sad that summer days will soon be a thing of the past.

I face Autumn with mixed emotions. Both my boys were born in Autumn, my birthday is in the Autumn and our anniversary is in the Autumn. My baby Nishad will start pre-school this Autumn. Autumn is actually my favorite season- and most magical, thanks to our boys. If only Autumn could convince Winter not to rear his ugly head.

Monday we had wonderful guests that visited us while on a 18 day vacation of the upper mid-west; Claire, Francesca and Kieth stayed with us. Claire first danced into my heart when she was a little older than Nishad. I still can picture her, like it was yesterday- a pink tu-tu, slippers and her hair in a pony tail with such big eyes looking up at me in an angelic voice, "Hi, Miss Beverly." She was a student in my pre-ballet class and quickly advanced to Ballet I. Claire also read the poem, "If Roses Grow in Heaven" at our wedding. She and her Mom were at my baby shower too. When I told Nishad that they were coming to visit he replied, "I don't think I've seen them in a long time." He was right! It's been about 3 years since I've seen them. Claire is growing into quite the beautiful, intelligent and talented young lady filled with grace and courtesy (Montessori child that she is!). Claire is 9, a gymnast, plays the piano and loves to take photographs (she showed me 500 of her pictures she took while in South Dakota, North Dakota, Sioux Falls and Montana). Nishad loved having a gymnastics buddy. Keith serenaded us with his guitar- amazing! Francesca warmed my heart with her laughter and smile.

They are such an inspirational family. They have a beautiful repore with Claire. Nishad *loved* being carried around my Francesca. Arun even went to Keith to be held while Mom took pictures at the Zoo. Seeing them made me miss where I grew-up. There is something so familiar about certain people that you can instantly relate with- I think people from Chicagoland are like that. Very genuine. Keith even gave me his sour kraut recipe. He told me that he lives next to "Josie"- the lady that owns Josie's restaurant that you can order dumplings from online. He said that if he opened a restaurant next door to Josie's, he'd put her out of business. I believe him! At one point, Kieth, Fran, Claire and I were all talking about kolacky, rye bread and houska. I laughed and said, "See, Honey! There are more of us out there that are like this!" Though I knew they have to get back home, I was sad to see them leave.

Roses Grow in Heaven
If roses grow in Heaven,
Lord please pick a bunch for me,
Place them in my Mother's arms
And tell her they are from me.
Tell her I love her and I miss her,
And when she turns to smile,
Place a kiss upon her cheek.
And hold her for awhile.
Because remembering her is easy,
I do it every day.
But there's an ache in my heart
As I'm missing her today.

Yesterday, we received a letter from Nishad's teacher, Brenda. Looking at the school calendar, we are going to have quite the packed social year as there seems to be a lot of family gatherings, speakers, coffees and festivals! Exciting! A whole new community. The first is for a parent to attend on the 26th. The same day we have an ice cream social where Nishad will meet other children, we'll meet other families and the staff. Under the advice of his teacher, we went out and bought Nishad a pair of Croc's to be used as his inside shoes. We have to buy a plant for the first day of school so he can find a spot for it in the classroom. His teacher said this will give them a sense of ownership of the classroom from the start, divert their attention from the separation of their parents and...the classroom gets beautiful new flowers each year! There are so many things to sign-up and volunteer for as parents. We look forward to doing our part an parents and taking an active role in Nishad's education.

Last night was one of the longest park and rec. meetings I've been to in some time. I think it was also one of the better meetings although, at times, it seemed a bit heated, it was productive. It's great to have new people on board, and to have opinions and to be able to back-up your belief in those opinions.

Ashish worked from home today- he's gone from manager to taking over a directors job. Boy has he been busy lately! The contractors also started siding our house today. I worked on some stuff for my business today, as well as a flyer/save the date, that I volunteer my time creating for our park and rec. events. Pumpkin Patch day will be here before I know it!

I'm learning to be more assertive with my business. I don't take anything personal, but I must admit, a few people have placed me in odd positions in which I've had to be blunt after repeatedly being questioned. It's not fair that I would charge someone else for something and not another. Plus there is the issue of time. Time is so important.

As business owner, one has to accept that some people may not like your decisions. I need to be true to myself, my business and ethics. I am so excited to be able to offer something unique, personal, custom and creative- a fresh alternative. Flash a smile and create a memory! That's my business plug! :)

Ashish is wonderful at supporting me- as are a few of my good friends. I actually was signed on another photo session! I'll be taking 'action' pictures of a dance troupe on September 15th. Then they scheduled me for portraits as well. I'm really looking forward to that! Right now it's nice as I can pick and choose what I really have time for, as our kids our are first priority. I try not to do any design work while they are up during the day as I'm a stay at home mom for a reason...to be with them, teach them and spend this precious time with them.

I feel I'm a bit blue today...The thought of Nishad going to school, a very good school in which he's ready to thrive in, also makes brings me to the reality that my little boy is growing...and soon, he won't be with me ALL day long. Funny, there were times when I thought that after we filled out his application and heard about his acceptance letter I would be doing the Hallelujah dance. I'm still excited for him. I'm just not dancing over not seeing him...albeit three hours a day...but he IS my baby. Hard to let go.

One World One Dream

Today was an opportunity for Nishad to get acquainted with the Olympic Games, but most importantly for Nishad to learn that the message during the activities is one of friendship and peace. People playing and working together in peace and friendship makes for a better and beautiful world.

As we watched the Opening Ceremonies, we made sure to cheer for countries with smaller representation- not just the popular ones. I feel that it's the people from those smaller, poor countries, that really bring forth the Olympic spirit as they are there representing their country, against all odds. Despite the annoyingly bias and 'political' commentary the hosts, it was an impressive show.

There were so many highlights and how could there not be on a 300 million dollar masterpiece? I have to admit that one of my favorite parts was the dancers who seemingly used their body's as an extension of a pen. As they danced, Chinese calligraphy 'magically' appeared and trailed behind them. I also found it very moving when they had the boy from the earth quake zone walk in the parade. They certainly did the Olympics proud. I've almost forgiven our NBC for upsetting my hubby by not broadcasting the ceremony live.

Our celebration began this afternoon. In preparation of the games we learned about China, made a Chinese lantern to decorate our dinner table and created a panda bear stick puppet. This weekend we'll continue on with our Olympic theme by creating a torch, flags and playing some Olympic, tot-size games.

For dinner, I made a better-than-take-out Chinese dinner! On the menu was Ma Po Tofu and Shrimp with Lobster Sauce. FANTABULOUS! Below are the recipes- You simply must try them. Your taste buds will jump up and down and give you a "perfect 10!"

Ma Po Tofu (Auntie D's recipe)
Ingredients
1 (1-pound) package reduced-fat firm tofu, cut into 6 slices
1/2 cup vegetable broth1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 to 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce (such as Lee Kum Kee)
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 tablespoon grated peeled fresh ginger (recommend mincing)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup chopped green onions
Preparation
Place tofu slices on several layers of paper towels; cover with additional paper towels. Place a dinner plate on top of covered tofu; let stand 30 minutes. Remove plate; discard paper towels. Cut tofu slices into 1/2-inch cubes.Combine broth, cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili garlic sauce, stirring with a whisk.
Heat a large nonstick skillet with 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add green beans; saute 8-10 minutes or until cooked and crisp. Add ginger and garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add tofu; cook 7-8 minutes or until golden, stirring frequently. Add broth mixture to pan. Bring to a boil; cook 1 minute or until mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
Sprinkle with onions.

Shrimp with Lobster Sauce
This is the recipe for shrimp with lobster sauce (without the black beans) that is often featured at Chinese take-outs and restaurants.
Ingredients:
Fresh shrimp, deveined and butterflied, 10 - 15 per person
4 to 8 spring onion (green onions, scallions), chopped
2 large garlic cloves, chopped or minced
2 cups of chicken stock (*I substituted vegetable broth)
4 tablespoons of sweet white wine, such as sweet Glen Ellen White Zinfandel
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons of Cornstarch and 1/2 cup of water
4 egg whites, beaten with 1/4 cup of water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil for stir-frying
Preparation:Rinse the shrimp in warm water and pat dry. Rinse the spring onions, drain and chop. Chop or mince the garlic cloves. Combine the chicken stock, white wine, soy sauce, and sugar and set aside. In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch into 1/2 cup water. Whisk the egg whites into 1/4 cup water and set aside. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok, large pot, or frying pan or skillet on medium high to high heat. Stir fry the garlic and spring onions for about 30 seconds to a minute, taking care not to burn the garlic.Add the shrimp and stir fry for 2 minutes.Add the chicken broth mixture, bring to a boil and boil about 1 minute.Re-stir the cornstarch and water mixture and stir it into broth. Immediately afterward, slowly pour in the egg whites, breaking them up by gently stirring them with a fork (stirring them twice across and then twice across again in a tic tack toe pattern). Be careful not to over stir the egg whites. The dish is ready when the sauce begins to boil and thicken.

Nutritional Breakdown (based on 3 servings, with 30 shrimp total: Each serving includes: Calories 250, 14 g Carbohydrates, 19 g Protein, 10 g Fat, (1 g Saturated Fat, 6 g Monounsaturated Fat) 91 mg Cholesterol, 1 g Fibre, 2005 mg Sodium, 338 mg Potassium. Note: To reduce the sodium, use store bought low sodium chicken broth

Apples of my Eye

As easy as pie- or apple cake as it is in house this evening. My darling husband moonlighted as a pastry chef this evening with his talented and innovative assistant, Nishad. I went out for mere 45- minutes and when I returned, the aroma of something good baking in the oven lured me in, nose first. My guys made their very own apple cake!

Our neighbor, Kris, who has only been kind and nurturing toward us gave Nishad a Tastefully Simple Nana's Apple Cake to make. He was so excited that he carried the box through the house for a few days as if to remind me that we need to bake it. This was the first time he and Dad baked together, without Mom. He must have been in 7th heaven with his Daddy at his side. There is no doubt that he loves me, but his Daddy is the apple of his eye- no pun intended! :)

This morning we took a bike ride. Back in June I purchased a bike trailor for the boys to ride in along with a new bike for myself with some of the proceeds from the garage sale I had (Yes, we were clearing out baby stuff). I really needed an adult bike- after having kids, things have changed... I described it to a few people as an old-lady bike. There's no frills about it- and I love it! I guess it's good that I went for the bike ride earlier being that there is cake in the house now!

Arun is really ready to walk. He loves to kneel on one knee and suddenly jolt up forward in the air as though he's trying to spring to his feet. He cruises just about anywhere and everywhere. One of his favorite places to stand is at the patio window, looking out at the deck.

Nishad has been expectational and so loving toward Arun this week. He's always made sure we include the baby in our prayers or if we mention we are going somewhere, "And baby Arun too!" However, he's really starting to display his love for Baby Arun physically...in such sweet, precious moments.

Picnic at Daddy's Work

We started the day with grins and giggles! Off to the park in our wagon we went. Both boys didn't want to get off the swings. We're lucky to have a neighborhood park literally a stones throw away from our house. Only one of the perks and reasons why we chose this house and lot.

By 10:30AM we were on the road! Destination surprise picnic style lunch with Daddy at his work! After calling Daddy we learned that his entire day was packed with meetings and he only had a time frame from 11:30AM-noon open. Perfect! The boys and I made a stop at Noodles and Company and hand picked lunch. There is a park trail, pond and golf course adjacent to Daddy's work so we found a nice shady, grassy spot and had a beautiful picnic. We kept seeing all these employees coming out on their walks, run and bike rides..and here we were having a great dose of family-time in the middle of the work day.

We made a stop to a store after, and then headed back for home. It was already a bit beyond nap time. However, the nice thing about being a stay-at-home Mommy is that you can be flexible and let your kids take the lead. Sometimes, I admit, it feels like you are a slave to nap times, but it's all relative. For the rest of the week, we are going to try to take it easy and hang out as a family. Life gets way too busy! In only 2 1/2 weeks, Nishad starts at his Montessori school!

Nishad, my garden assistant, was helping me harvest all the ripe veggies this evening. We picked out first zucchini! Hurray! We've had so many cucs, and the cherry tomatoes are so good that a lot of them don't even make it in the house between Nishad and I. Nishad and I also spotted our first WATERMELONS growing! They are bigger than a golf ball now and a dark forest green. I think I may have to expand my garden sooner than next year. The watermelon and the cantaloupes are REALLY spreading out, so I'll need to make additional room. Spread the love out...that's right!

National Night Out

Pictures speak volumes. That is one reason why I enjoy taking pictures and opened a business- to preserve these precious moments that document not only the event, but the emotion.

We decked out Nishad's little bike in red, white and blue and headed to the park for National Night Out! This was the 3rd Annual National Night Out that our neighborhood has had. We have two great neighbors that continue to organize and coordinate the event. We're so lucky to have the neighbors we do. I designed the neighborhood flyer (good practice for my business and builds my portfolio!). A week earlier a bunch of us set out to paint the town in flyers- well, our subdivision at least!

There was an amazing turn-out this year. Hard to believe it started from being hosted in a garage with a hand full of neighbors. It was great to see people that we've not seen in a while and meet new neighbors.

NNO started with a kiddie parade. What a hoot! It was a hit! It ended with the park sprinkler system going off too! How's that for an ending? Then I ran the crawl, hop and run races. The babies were too cute! The sat there a bit confused and then suddenly one little one took off! Arun was happy hangin' out with Vada on the grass, until they both realized they were on grass. Then they were all about being picked up! Next up was the toddler "hopping" race. All hopped well. Nishad was practicing today- my little Honey-Bunny! His friend Jaxson was there too (Vada's brother). As a matter of fact, when we were walking up to the park we could here Jaxson yell "MOM! Nishad is coming!" That instantly put a familiar smile on Nishad's face. We just love Jaxson's spirit and enthusiasm! After I made the kids run around to a tree and them tossed candy in the air. It's raining C-A-N-D-Y! I have to say, they were ALL so polite and well-mannered. I heard so many thank yous! Great kids. Next came the water balloon toss, which was a hit too! It seemed to be more of a splash pad at the park though! Pop, pop, pop!! I think the kids enjoyed getting wet the best! Last, but not least by any means, was the ever so popular fire-truck and Sheriff visit! Nishad takes on a different persona when he thinks he becomes a "fireman." He even grins differently! He was so happy and excited to see real fireman and fire-trucks.

Nishad and I hung out and chatted with a few lady neighbors until 9PM at the park. It was a nice way to cap of a great event. This would be the perfect neighborhood and place to live and retire if it didn't get so cold! It's nice to have such good people live so close, that care.

Mr. Table Manners

Behold the fork, plate, chair, and table has made an appearance! It's time to transition and Nishad is excited to be a role model for his baby brother! I was surprised at how quickly Arun knew exactly what to do. He seemed so proud to be able to feed himself with a fork and to be sitting at a table designed with him and his brother in mind. Pancakes never looked so good!

Today was Arun's 9-month wellness visit. he got a shining bill of health. His stats: 25lbs and 29-inches long. He did his best to charm our pediatrician...She couldn't believe how calm he was while she examined him. He just silently analyzed her as if to say, "Are you looking at me? Or, am I looking at you?"

Love for Maria

"Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed." ~ Maria Montessori










Nishad not only takes pride in not only clearing his plate after he eats, but now serving himself and on occassion, making Mommy and Daddy's plate too!

"Hello, Family! We are a family!" I love it when Nishad says that to us. There are so many moments in the day in which he says something, so beyond his years, that makes me pause, smile, giggle, kiss him and thank God that we are blessed with our boys.

Lately he 'thinks' he needs to parent his baby brother, which tends to get him in a bit of trouble. We're working on helping him understand that while he can help the baby, he doesn't have to parent the baby- That is what Mommy and Daddy are for.


We couldn't understand why he was not playing nicely with his brother. We would tell him, "Now how will you make your brother feel better?" He then goes over to Arun and hugs and kisses him and says, "It's okay baby. Don't cry." While I recognize that he's more advanced than most adults by doing this, it was a good reminder to me that I need to work continuously on grace, courtesy and manners with the boys. I'm pleased to say that last night, while I was making dinner, Nishad was 'entertaining' him brother. Arun was laughing so hard at Nishad, he was turning red and sounding off with sounds of joy! When he gets that happy, he seriously sounds like Donald Duck.


I have to say that I'm really pleased with the way he willingly shares his toys with others and how he interacts with other kids. He's not a loud or uncontrollable. He's especially good in public. I'm glad that he had the opportunity to live in a sheltered world, until pre-school, when it's the right time for him to start interacting daily with children and engaging in social activities.


We also feel confident because he's going to be attending a Montessori school in which he will thrive in! What child wouldn't? After working in both public and Montessori, we knew there was only one choice for our children's education.


We as parents will be a part of a new and exciting community that have similar goals as us; ranging from academic, nutritional, and life style. Nishad will play a role in a community that has respect for ones self, others, all living things and materials. I recall a directress I worked with, Suman. She had three classroom "rules" for the children. The three W's; Walk, Work and Whisper. I've tried to carry that on when I taught in classrooms. We live in such a loud society! Everyone is always yelling or speaking so loud that you can hear their conversation across the street from you.


Nishad will also be in a culturally diverse atmosphere. That was really an important factor for us. We wanted to him to attend a school that had represented the ever changing face our our country- our world. Of course, good things aren't cheap- it all comes with a cost.


Before applying at this school, I toured, observed and interviewed directors at 15 other Montessori schools. Having a bit of a background in Montessori helped. I preferred and AMI school over and AMS school. I personally worked in 2 AMS schools (which, by the way, were both highly respected and wonderful schools). I preferred an AMI as a parent as Maria Montessori started AMI. Another key factor was that the architecture of the school had to abide by the standards of AMI. Fellow seekers of Montessori beware- "Montessori" isn't trademarked. Therefore, there are a lot of schools that have the Montessori name on the school and they are not Montessorians.


Nishad's school has a gorgeous outdoor environment, much like the Montessori school in Shoreview where we enrolled in the parent-infant class. There are four children's houses in the school and one toddler community. There is a open area atrium where children can walk outside of their classroom and do yoga. Sign me up! :) Don't you feel so deprived as a child compared to all the wonderful academic opportunities children have today? I know I would have benefited as a Montessori child. Often, working in a Montessori classroom, I had the urge to let loose when the kids weren't in the classroom. haha. There are actually adult Montessori classrooms so you can experience it in a similar manner that a child does. I would love to attend one of those conferences.


As a parent, there are some great resources online in regard to Montessori. If you're ever up for a good read that directly impacts the most precious people in your life, I recommend these:

• The Joyful Child



• Montessori for Everyone



• AMI



• AMS



• Montessori Services

Clink here for a comparison chart of Montessori -vs- traditional.
"The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, "The children are now working as if I did not exist." ~ Maria Montessori

Bubba-Lu

We have a new addition in our house! A white and gold, tail splashin' friend, in which Nishad named, "Bubba-lu!" When I asked Nishad if he would like to get a pet fish, he said, "Oh, yesss!" So I looked at him and said, "But the fish will need to eat. Who will feed him?" He quickly replied, "OH, I will Momma!" Then I said, "I imagine his tank of water will get dirty. Who will clean it?" He stood up, "Me! I will keep his home clean!"

That night we all ventured out in search of the perfect pet fish and fish tank. It was love at first bubble- Nishad needed no time to make up his mind. He pointed directly at the "fishy" he wanted to take home, care for and love. He had already named the fish by the time we got to the car. He held him proudly all the way home.

Welcome, Bubba-lu! We hope you are having a swimingly good time at our house in your new home!

Day Out WIth...

Thumbs down for the silly face train (as Thomas is known in our house) organizers for "Day Out with Thomas" in Lakeville, Minnesota's Tumbleweed Express. Last year the venue was in Stillwater's Minnesota Zephyr. Though we aren't Thomas fans, per-say, we did enjoy the event and all it offered in scenic Stillwater.

The people that organized this event seemed as though they were not prepared. After parking, you were to walk down a road, with no shoulder. Upon reaching the front gate, a lady looked at our tickets and told us to be across the street in 15-minutes for our train. We ambled around the games and activities, which were not of the same quality and 'professional' staff that the Stillwater experience consisted of. We walked over to get in line for our train, where we were to leave our stroller, in no particular order, along side the road. As people got off the train before us, they had to pull out strollers and search for their own, which meant all the people in line that had strollers were now displaced. As more people added to the line behind us, people were standing in the middle of the road! One of the organizers was yelling to people to stay out of the road...as he tried to direct cars around them and the people around a bend to the adjacent parking lot.

The train ride was nice, but by far, not as scenic as Stillwater. No one ever took our tickets either. It lasted a mere 25-minutes long. Just good enough for Nishad to have his fill. As we excited, the organizers had a "new system" in place for those boarding the train. They had lawn chairs wrapped with rope around them to form crowd control lines. In addition, they moved the location of where you can park your strollers. However, when I had to step into the line to get my stroller, a few people were very quick to tell me that they moved the parking spot for the strollers. Ok people, I know it's hot but all I want to do is pick-up my strollers as I alrady rode the choo-choo! One lady stepped on the rope to help me guide the stroller out. Then suddenly a pack of people exiting the train enveloped the people in line to make a path to their strollers. Apparently, we were one of the first people off the train. I told Ashish to start walking back to the car and I would take a few pictures of the front of the train. I was amazed at all the bickering people- in front of children! They didn't want to pay the photographer to take a picture with the child at the front of the train so they decided to stand on the railroad tracks to snap a shot. People were upset that people weren't 'taking turns'- Imagine! Perhaps they need to have the adults sit down and watch a Thomas DVD on manners! It also didn't help that the line to take a picture and the line to board the train were in the same spot.

Honestly, he wasn't that excited this time. Maybe because he just went on a 90-minute train ride in Duluth a few weeks ago? Perhaps he's had his fill of trains! I told Ashish today, by the time we move out of this state, we'll have been to every train depot around as we've been to the depots in Duluth, Still Water, Jackson Street Round House, Bemidji, and St Croix for the pumpkin patch train! Anyway, it was great to get out on this beautiful sunny and warm day as a family. At $17.00 per ticket, I think we'll chugga-lugga past this stop on the ride of commercialism. (Yes, by going I am fully aware we are part of the problem. ha,ha.)

We stopped over at IKEA and had lunch and bought a table for the kids. We had a cheap chair and table for them, but we wanted to upgrade. We picked out the table ($34.99) and chairs ($19.99 each) from the Kritter collection. A little spendy, but we wanted something that was stable and would last longer. It's bright and very cute! It's in our kitchen now and I can't wait to have breakfast with the kids at 'their' table!

Sprinkler Buddies

Let the sprinkling, splashing and lesson in hydraulics begin! The Beans' paid us a visit today in the morning- We enjoy visiting with the Bean's. The boys play so nicely with one another. I think Nishad gets a kick out of Jaxson!

Baby Vada and Baby Arun even muddled around in the wet grass- Vada really wanted to go into the sprinkler! Arun just woke up from nap, so he was still adjusting to the daylight. (ha,ha)

Daddy was working from home today, so Nishad and I had a special lunch date. We went to Space Aliens. Where else can you "fill up your inner space" so close to home?" It's kinda of like a Chuckie Cheese...which I've always viewed as a large alien anyway! The loaded baked potato was pretty good and Nishad enjoyed his pizza. Nishad played games and won a bunch of dinosaurs and a snake. After we went shopping and I let him pick out an outfit, on his very own. He 'had' to have the basketball shirt. When I asked him why he wanted it he replied, "I can wear it when I play basketball." Sounds reasonable to me! After we came home and it was time for nap, and time for Arun to wake up from his nap.