Spring in Feb

Seriously...who couldn't use a little "Spring" in the middle of winter? Tiger and I feasted with our eyes upon the vibrant colors! The air was fragrant with the sweetest of lilies and azaleas. It gave me a sense of hope that Spring...new beginnings...was soon on it's way. Well, at least in another 4 months for those of us that live in Minnesota. If only there were 6 weeks of winter left! Mr. Groundhog, perhaps that is true for the rest of the country. However, it's not true here. It's not that it's been a particularly cold winter, but it's been a long winter. Our first snow was October 13th. Things can always be worse- and as I've learned, much, much colder. So, I shall remove myself from my soap box. What a great treat the Como Conservatory blesses us with! Tiger and I enjoyed some one-on-one time here today for lunch, a visit to the animals and lots of hugs and kisses!

A fairy landed just in time for me to snap a picture.

A little curtsy before the Queen.

Little Gymnast

Happy as can be with a spring in his step- Nishad loves gymnastics. He's already swinging around on the bars (spotted) and completes his pass on the high beam unassisted. He's set to go, enrolled in the next session until Spring. It certainly keeps him busy, and us on our toes. He likes swim class as well, which, regardless, living in a state that as so much water, it's necessary that he learn. So, it's a good thing that he enjoys it. In the last few weeks, he's shown a desire to learn to ice skate so he can play hockey. He's not even started his "official" pre-school year, and he's busy, busy, busy!

Merry Theatre!

We met up with the J's in Minneapolis and kicked off the winter break with Zenon Dance Company's, "A Mother goose Nutcracker." Positioned right in the front row, the boys got to see all the action and muscle flexing up close. They set all of Tchaikovsky's music to "modern" choreography, with the introduction of each song being told to a fairy tail. A very creative and a very talented, professional company made this an experience that we look forward to attending again next year! I love when company's engage children and give them the opportunity to appreciate the arts from an early age.

I recall the first theatre performance Nishad saw-- he was only 18 months old. Nervous mother was I, "Will he sit through the show?"..."What if he cries?"..."What if he begins to speak during the performance?" He did none of that- he watched with eyes as big as half dollars. I prepared him prior to the show though, so he knew what to expect. The Flint Hill Children's Festival held in Saint Paul, Minnesota (which will be held June 1-6 this year) offers a great opportunity to expose your child to various arts and theatre performances. Made possible through sponsorship through Target, international theatre performances are offered to the general public at $5 a ticket. The tickets do sell out fast (I purchased out tickets for Eric Carle's, "The Very Quiet Cricket" last year almost 2 months in advance).

It's important for kids to attend different types of performances as well-- not "just" children's theatre. Given children's theatre IS a great start-- especially, if you want to test the waters with your little one. In addition, you want to be respectful of other patrons, and be selective with your topics-- this may not be the time to introduce your 3 year old to "Cabaret."

Both boys attend the Minnesota Orchestra (Tiger and Nishad recently attended the 2 1/2 hour long "Hansel and Gretel" performance, which was beautiful.) When Tiger wants to switch from seat to seat, or my lap to Ashish's and there is an occasional look, I just keep in mind that "we paid as much as anyone else for our seats." And, in this case, it is a children's show. A nice bonus of attending a children's performance is that prior to the show, the lobby is filled with instruments for the kids to try out and learn about.

I do recall when a friend and I took both of the boys to a performance at the Minneapolis Children's Theatre to see "Bert and Ernie Say Goodnight." Her son said something and a man in the back of us "shushed" her son. I turned my head and gave him a look-- seriously, this isn't Les Mis and YOU sir at AT a children's theatre. No "sush" rule applies here in this theatre. Be sure to sign up for updates via e-mail. They have lots of "buy one get one" deals or half off tickets. You'll also learn about special events and classes offered.

note: Photo by City Pages

Red, White and Blue

Though they all came into the court room as citizens from different countries, they all left as citizens from the same country...the United States of America. Though A entered this country a little over 10 years ago, his journey to this moment in time, began long before then. It isn't surprising that he would become a citizen, as one of the characteristics that defines successful Americans is a "hard worker." Another characteristic, "determined."

Born in a hut, on a stormy night, the first born son, his name would mean "blessing." There were no doctors, scales or a way to document this event. His last name came from a teacher who named him, as he didn't have one. It would be years later when his brother would enroll in school that they would learn of the family name, "Kathwal." Accelerated through school, at a grade level higher than what he should have been, he graduated with a degree in computer science. He was offered a full scholarship to get his masters, but his parents refused to let him as they needed him to provide for "the family" and pay for his younger siblings education. He and his brother would work side by side, without anyone ever knowing that they were brothers, as they both had different last names. He speaks of times when he use to lead his Grandfather's buffalo's on his farm, the times when he would avoid getting powder in his face on Holi, and how they would sing Christmas carols. Yes, Christmas carols. Though his mother was Hindu, his father was converted into Christianity. He would speak of the times when his Dad would sleep all the time and play cards. He would convey how he and his brother would go with his Mom to the market to carry all the bags back. Rice was a staple in their diet.

With the first pay check he made, he surprised his mother and bought her a beautiful silk sari. One of the first things that she showed me when I met her in October of 2003 was a big diamond nose ring that she said Ashish also bought her. When his father said she was sick and he wasn't going to take care of her, he went and got his mother and brought her here to seek medical treatment. He was always a good son to the lady who gave him life.

He came to this country with $500, one suitcase and a job offer. A job that he interviewed for back in India. He didn't know anyone here or have any "connections." Yet, he and I, found one another. We grew up on opposite sides of the world, we had vastly different up bringing and childhoods...but here we are, together, married now for 6 years...together for 8 years.

In many ways, he is an inspiration...he started from the ground up and built all he has single handedly--well, with my help some years down the road (ha,ha). Educated and open minded, he respected his "traditions" but didn't let culture bind him or stunt his growth. When his parents wanted him to get an arranged marriage, he didn't--stating that he was going to marry me. I can only imagine the strength it took to stand up for what you believe in and go against generations of "traditions."

The road he has traveled has not been paved with gold...there have been some speed bumps. However, here he stands...in my eyes, no pedestal could do him justice. He is mine and I am his- without the limitation of this life, but rather "forever." What can I say? I simply can not resist him- so handsome, so smart...what a perfect combination.

Congrats, to a most well-deserving man! This is something you did on your own, without any suggestion of mine...You now have a voice in the country that you in, have a family, own a house at, paid taxes to....though you've been here for almost 11 years, "WELCOME!" It was an honor to witness something that we "born" into this country take for granted so easily. It was especially touching to see the people stand that were becoming citizens from Iraq and Afghanistan. All in all, a very moving experience...an experience that reminded me to be a proud American. How proud we were to sit there and witness such a special day.

Rawring into 2

Mr. Tiger turned 2 years old on October 30th. However, we were a little behind with getting his photos done--but, when you are 2, what is time anyway? Days are filled with fun and nights are to be explored! Tiger is our happy-go-lucky, singer that loves to "work" and help. He adores Nishad and has a few friends he is very fond of at school. He's so smart, funny and has the most contagious laugh. I know it's "harder" to rear little boys than little girls, however, Tiger and Nishad have been such a joy to rear...it's a honor to call them our sons. Happy Birthday, Little Tiger! We sure do love you!!

Woo-Woo Choo-Choo

Kickin' off the Season!

Nothing like a little Brotherly Love to make you Melt

All the Mommy's with their babies...minus Mr. Nishad.
Such cuties! Life doesn't get any cuter than this!

This past weekend we painted the town red. We booked a room at the Hyatt in Minneapolis for some "downtown" fun! our room was on the 6th floor so we had a sliding door/private patio that led directly to the pool- very cool! We started off eating lunch at the most fantastic Thai place; Swatdee. Tiger has a new favorite cuisine. He couldn't get enough of the Thai food. Ashish is super excited as they offer cooking classes! He took a few different ones in the past offered through Byerly's, but this sounds right up his alley!

We then headed over to the Mill City Museum where we learned how to feel like a proud Minnesotan, rich in history. The name Minnesota actually came from the Native American word Minnehaha. The Mill City Museum is on a great location, however, I don't recommend the "Flour Tour" for younger toddlers. Tiger was quite scared on the freight elevator and it was rather loud.

After we went back to the hotel and relaxed a bit before heading out to dinner at Salsa a la Salsa. This by far is the best Mexican food I have tasted since Chicago. As a matter of fact, this is the second time this month that I ate here. Shhhh! ha,ha. J took me here for my birthday- so I have her to blame! She shared with me that the chef actually cooked for Julia Roberts.

At 6PM, we made it to the corner of Nicollet Mall and 12th St, where we "saved" a spot for the D's and H's to meet up with us for Hollidazzle! It was a packed parade route, but luck was on our side. We were right at the start of the parade. The weather was perfect and the company- FANTASTIC! After the parade we summed up the night with hot-chocolate and a stroll down the street to take in all the lights. We are so glad the D's and the H's met up with us.

The following day, Tiger and I started off our day with breakfast at "The New's Room" while Ashish and Nishad took a swim. Tiger had the "flip Jack's" while I enjoyed the cranberry-pecan French toast. Hey, "EAT ALL ABOUT IT!" ha. There are tons of flat screens and the walls are covered with "newspaper" wallpaper and between the glass inside the tables you can read antique newspapers. Very neat. I also enjoyed all the Chicago Bear's fans that were downtown for the game.

We all met up and went to Macy's "In the Life of an Elf" and even picked out our annual "special" ornaments there. This year Nishad picked a baby kitten and Tiger picked up a zebra. Of course, in accordance to my tree, I found two little Irish dancers that will do a merry jig on my tree this year.

It wasn't long before it was time to head over to Minnesota Orchestra Hall's production of "Hansel and Gretel." It started at 2PM and was 2 hours long. This was Tiger's first orchestra performance~ Nishad has become an old pro and just loves attending performances. As a matter of fact, he didn't want to leave. The puppets that were in the show were so beautiful- so visually inspiring!

By the time we made it home, it was around 5PM and all of us were pooped! However, this was an excellent way to kick off the season. And, what's better than to be blessed enough to have some excellent friends to do it with!

Busy Times

Busy, doesn't fully describe the Kumar Household! With the boys in school, Ashish taking on a new role at UHG and my photography business we've been on quite a ride lately! All positive things...but not much "down time." It doesn't look as though we will have any down time soon either with the holidays approaching...and my entry back in school for communications this January (I have assignments due prior to my first day of class.) Though it was a hard decision, I'm really embracing my decision to resign as the Chair of the Otsego Park and Recreation Commission now...there is only so many hours in a day.

Let me say that my birthday was amazing this year as I was able to celebrate throughout the month. My friend J took me "downtown" to a Mexican place. YUM. My friend S took me to French Meadows. YUM. My friend A got sick, so we will have to re-schedule our time together. The cards and birthday wishes were exceptionally sweet this year. It's also SO NICE to be surrounded with real, intelligent, fun and caring friends. After living here for almost 5 years, God as helped me sort out the weeds from the flowers in the garden. Thank You for blessing my garden with colors of joy, hope and such beautiful "local" friendships. I have become so found of MB, JH, LC, JG and SK...right in my own backyard. How lucky am I?! VERY.

Today Nishad was invited to a Princess Birthday Party complete with it's own castle and "ball." It was cute to see all the kids from his class playing and celebrating his friend's milestone. On Monday I'm having breakfast with MB at the Original Pancake House- love their crepes (they have a location in Oak Park...so it reminds me of Chicagoland). We're excited to hang out Tuesday after school with SK and her son at Border's for a little picnic style lunch and books. That night I'm attending a parent night at school. Friday of the same week, I'm serving up a Thanksgiving feast with my Minnesota bestie JH at Nishad's school. So excited!

The Wheels on the Bus Go...

Round and Round and to Minnesota Orchestra Hall!

I made it a point to drop off Mr. Nishad by 8am today at school so I could see him off, paparazzi style, on his first field trip! Though this wasn't the first time he's been to Orchestra Hall (we've taken him since he was little for different performances), it was the first time without Mom or Dad at his side. I normally don't do drop off, so this was a treat for me. He was so proud as he boarded the bus, so full of smiles. He sat next to his best friend, J as J's Mom and I saw them off while waving at the bus. Ashish brought Tiger a bit later just in time to capture J's Mom and I seeing our "babies" off. It must be a Mom thing...

4 Boyhood

The essence of what being a little boy is all about. Happy 4th Birthday, my baby Nishad! This was one very special photo shoot for your Mommy.

I love you, Baby! Happy Birthday!

Susan Powers

I finally get what Susan Powers' meant when she said, "STOP THE INSANITY" as I feel like that with germs this season. Seriously!

While Ashish was in SFO, Nishad was sick. They also closed down Nishad's school because of illness. Ashish came back from SFO, and got sick. Now he is on the mend and Tiger is sick- three weeks later after Nishad. Enuff.

I am the most OCD person I know...my close friends can attest to this. With having a suppress immune system this season around (due to pneumonia in May and a severe reaction to shots), I am even more careful. I need to be 100% to take care of my babies. I just may be doing a goggle search on "BUBBLE OUTFITS."

At one point, Ashish called me mean, "just very mean." It's not out of meanness that I roll down a window when someone sneezes or coughs in a confined car- it's out of love for all involved. I didn't allow the kids to be around him when he was sick, not out of meanness, but out of concern so he could get the rest he needs and the kids remain healthy. Which, by the way, I think I figured out how Tiger caught some germs. The sheets I took off the bed that Ashish was sleeping on when sick were in the basket waiting to be washed. I believe Mr. Tiger was playing with them. :( I wish I cleaned those ASAP. Lesson learned.

The CDC also has some great recommendations for caring for someone with the flu or H1N1 on it's web site. One of the things I took from it was "no cloth hand towels to dry your hands" unless everyone has a seperate one (by color, perhaps). They also updated their symptom check to include non-fevers. This was one of the factors the hospital didn't think I had H1N1.

On a side note, while working with Tiger on his Hindi today (as he is home sick) I pointed to a mouse and said, "Chew-haa" (mouse in Hindi). At which he pointed at the mouse and said, "Aah-CHOOO!" haha! :) Very appropriate!

BOO BASH

This has become a "GRAND" tradition of ours; Boo Bash on Grand Ave in St. Paul. It really has that hip, city feel with all the big mature trees, eco-friendly customers, and houses that line the street that are filled with charm and character...when houses were built to last. Yes, much unlike the sterile burbs...this is always a Halloween treat!

This year Ashish was sick, so we missed his company as we strolled up and down Grand Ave. trick or treating, marveling at every one's costumes and being frequently stopped by passer-by's exclaiming how "ADORABLE" the boys are and what unique costumes. This happened so frequently that I think it started to go to Tiger's head. it wasn't before long that he started saying, "I'm cute! I'm cute!" A few people even stopped to compliment me about the choice of costume. They mentioned how refreshing it was to see boys in original costumes that weren't character/commercial costumes like Scooby-Do, Harry Potter and Spider Man. This was Nishad's first year ever trick or treating (minus the Not-So-Scary Halloween Party we attended at Walt Disney World last year at this time). So, he walked up to the first station, and though "Great, I have a sucker now...I'm all done." haha.. Then he caught on. He even went in a few places all by himself.

Of course, the boys amazingly talented and loving Auntie Kelly was the one that created these costumes for the boys! She can add this to her list of achievements like the NYC Metropolitan Opera House and Shakespeare Theatre Chicago (where she is currently employed- plug, plug!). All the credit goes to her as the boys dream of being penguins would not have been possible without her. She took the head accessory back to Chicago to work on them, so I had to improvise by making little caps. So, if it that part of the costume looks odd, it's my fault, not hers! :)

At 3PM, we went to the Stepping Stone Theatre off Grand Ave. to see Hanuman and the Girl Princess. I wasn't sure how Tiger would do as this was his first theatre performance. He did great! I don't know what I was worried about. He sat there so attentive and when the monkey came out he looked at me and said, "BUNDER!" (which is monkey in Hindi). Have I mentioned how I love St. Paul?

Funny story...we actually walked in through the backstage door. Heh. A man, who worked for the company was so sweet...so he showed us through to the theatre and directed us to the lobby doors. He said, "They haven't opened the doors yet, so just go right through and you'll see everyone in the lobby waiting in line." Boy did we ever! I opened the door to an eager crowd that suddenly said, "PENGUINS!" hahaha. Talk about a grand arrival! That's right...the Kumar's are AT the theatre!