Vincent Ville & Myra Metro

Animal Kingdom

2012-01-30T09:30:00.002-05:00

We visited Magic Kingdom to ride some of the favorites again, such as Peter Pan's Flight, Winnie The Pooh's adventures, Tomorrowland speedway, and peoplemover, and of course, Buzz Lightyear. Then the Aladdin carpets and Jungle Cruise. Then headed to Animal Kingdom and caught a safari ride where we saw most of the above animals (gorillas were a short walk away). Then we played in the Boneyard and caught the Lion King show. All in all, it was a very satisfying day.

Aloha

2012-01-29T21:48:00.002-05:00

And welcome to the Polynesian resort....

...where the vegetation is lush...

...and you'll find you can see Cinderella's castle from your comfortable beach hammock...

but Myra and Vincent's favourite place to be is the Magic Kingdom....

To infinity and beyond

2012-01-28T07:23:00.004-05:00

We're heading out to magic hours at Hollywood Studios today. Vincent is so excited for the toy story mania ride and Myra for the beauty and the beast show. Here's a few photos from our awesome day yesterday at Magic Kingdom.

Dreams come true

2012-01-27T22:00:00.003-05:00

A private audience with the main mouse himself. Lunch with Winnie, Tigger, Piglet and Eeyore. Meeting Aurora, Belle and Cinderella. And it's only day 1.

He can read he can read he can read he can read he's bad!

2011-12-17T02:36:00.001-05:00

Vincent read us his first book today. It was called "The lazy pig."

He was very proud, as were we.

Suuugaaaaaaar!!!!

2011-11-23T08:02:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T23:00:00.000-04:00

Happy 5th Birthday Vincent

2011-10-18T06:34:00.001-04:00

Dear Vincent,

Each year as the night air turns crisp and cool I’m reminded of the night you were born. That night (well, early morning technically) 5 years ago at this very moment I think of the mad rush to the hospital and those 13 days in the NICU before you were allowed to come home with us. Those days remain the longest of our lives. Sitting by your isolette, waiting for the chance to hold you, watching the leaves change colour and fall.

I look at you now, so handsome, so confident, so *full* of life and I am so thankful to have you as my son. You are the most sensitive little guy, still trying to fit into your Grandma-knit Winnie the Pooh sweater from 2 years ago because it is the last thing she made you and you miss her so much. You are so in touch with the emotions of others, giving a hug or kind word long before others even notice there is something wrong.

You are a proud big brother and a fierce protector of your family. You hold Myra’s hand to cross the road and praise her for using the potty. Your words are sincere, never forced.

You shy away from confrontation and like things to remain in balance and harmony. Your intensity defines you to this day. You feel everything passionately, fully, with a force that is unmatched (even by your mama…scary, really). You adore ‘family hugs’ and you still love to snuggle under the covers before nap (yes, you still nap in the afternoon!).

Still, you are growing up. You don’t need help zipping up your jackets anymore. You choose your clothes alone and bring your dishes to the sink. You play a little game with your Toy Story guys and tidy up, all without a word. You need to remind us sometimes that you don’t need us to help you with everything anymore, “I can do that myself, Dad”.

Yes, you can, Vincent. You can do anything you set your mind to. We love you so much and we are so lucky to have you in our family. Happy Birthday our beautiful baby boy.

We need a hand for Halloween

2011-10-09T22:24:00.003-04:00

They can do anything under the sun

2011-09-26T22:37:00.001-04:00

All aboard!

2011-09-24T23:13:00.002-04:00

Gabi and Reese met up with the V-man and Moo-girl for some farm fun. Pics of the day:

Myra fed a pig. a goat. a sheep. a cow. well, not the cow. she was afraid of the tongue.

"It's taking a long time for this train to go anywhere! why isn't it moving?"

Yee-haw! All this riding is getting me tired. Get it? TIRE-d? he he he.

And Daddy had fun too.

The Four Freaks

2011-09-07T22:58:00.002-04:00

I dunno. Still trying to find a name for what will inevitably be a cool hipster rock band. It looks like they've already found the look for the front and back cover photos of their 12 inch vinyl release. Taken while hanging out with school chums Matilda and Tadhg at the Beach.

Happy Third Birthday Moo!

2011-07-19T01:02:00.000-04:00

Dear Myra,

Happy 3rd birthday our little Myra Moo, Myra Mae. You make us smile every time we look at your sweet face. You are the most beautiful, funny, caring and devilish little girl. You have a wicked sense of humour and we love (and are slightly afraid of) your sly grin.

You are effortlessly cool and possess a fashion sense that is all your own. You are an amazing sister; always flexible and patient with Vincent yet you can stand your ground when necessary. You are brave and defend those you love, taking on anyone who wrongs you or your brother.

You love guiding family and friends in make-believe play…often creating elaborate scenarios involving elves or Great Wolf Lodge. You love painting, colouring and listening to stories. You sing cute little songs complete with skipping dance moves when you think no one is watching. From your sweet version of “High Hopes” to the Oompa Loompa song, you are ridiculously cute.

Your favourite movie this year remains Elf and you love pretending to be Santa. You have a love/hate relationship with the little red riding hood movie…you love it but it scares you. That is so you – you are fascinated with things that frighten you.

You continue to love the good things in life – gourmet food, leisurely bubble baths and being pampered.

When we think of all that you have brought to our family – the sweetness, the humour and most importantly, the balance, we simply can’t imagine life without you. We are so lucky to have you in our lives. "Absolutely!"

Myra Grad

2011-06-30T01:49:00.003-04:00

Graduating preschool is a funny thing.

For the parents it seems like a cute display marking the end of a short-lived era.

For the children it's a strange mix of emotions:

Pride.

Shyness.

And morphing into the Village of the Damned!

Daddy love day x/o

2011-06-19T09:03:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day, our love.

Thank you for keeping it all in balance.

Myra's Spring Concert

2011-06-10T01:34:00.001-04:00

Myra, coming on strong from a supporting role in Vincent's spring concert, makes a stunning debut at her own concert.

It all started off well...

She even went back to her spot in the circle after giving Mummy a nervous hug....

Vincent encouraged her by showing her when in the program the Cowboy Song was coming.

But Myra already knew, holding out for the songs in which she could wear hats. Indeed, she would retreat to parents until it was a song involving a hat for a prop, when she would then rush forward to teachers Mary and Debbie, declaring, "It's my turn to sing! It's my turn!" They couldn't argue with that, so Myra got her hats.

I do declare!

2011-05-23T08:37:00.000-04:00

Vincent say: It's official. Summer is coming.

Happy Mummy Day

2011-05-08T01:04:00.009-04:00

Dear Mummy,

I got something to tell you.

I love you.

Because you get up with me in the morning and give me a shnack. Even though you don’t like me burrowing into your armpit, you put up with it every day. Because you and me? We’re the same, mummy. Mummy? Mummy? Happy mummy’s day.

Love Vincent.

ps: You forgot something!!! A hug and a kiss!

Dear Mummy,

YES! It’s mother’s day and I love you too much. More than olives. More than Barney. More than hot showers. More than great wolf lodge. More than breastfeed. Well…not more than breast feed. That’s my favorite part of the day. What’s your favorite part of the day, mummy? Do you remember?

Love Myra.
ps: You forgot something!!! I give a hug and a kiss too? And a nooney nooney nooney.

Easter at Milford II

2011-04-24T10:50:00.000-04:00

Myra laments eating part of the Easter Bunny's carrot.

Easter at Milford

2011-04-23T10:58:00.001-04:00

The excitement builds as Vincent prepares to march in the Easter Parade. Having only ever watched parades, Vincent wonders aloud where he will get the candy that he has to throw to the kids. Note the tricked out Easter scooters that Vincent and Myra customized.

Daddy is recruited to ride an adult tricycle. Vincent and Myra squeeze into the back and enjoy the ride with a view of the millpond. However, the extra weight made climbing the hill to Mount Tabor a challenge.

The egg hunt on Mt. Tabor was much fun. The rain stopped long enough for it to not be a completely soggy mess. We forgot our camera and had to rely on cell phones to capture the moments.

Milford Waterfall

2011-04-22T11:01:00.001-04:00

You better work

2011-02-23T10:11:00.000-05:00

Hey Vincent, when you gonna unleash Magnum on us?

The man in the mask

2011-02-07T14:05:00.000-05:00

So today we whiled away the winter blahs with some craft projects. Of course, Myra made another Elf hat. She keeps wearing them out.

And Vincent decided he wanted to try making a giraffe costume, inspired by one he saw at the store that was too expensive to come home with. It's a little more Jason than giraffe and is sure to cause some nightmares.

Snow Day!

2011-02-02T13:45:00.000-05:00

We took a snow day today...the white stuff just fell and fell and fell. We had to shovel it off the deck so we made a short sled run, and a snowman. And when it got too cold we warmed up with hot chocolate, oatmeal cookies and an Elf movie (yes, still...wait til you see the post about the craft hats).

New year's eve at Milford

2010-12-31T12:33:00.001-05:00

For new year's eve, we skated on the mill pond...until we heard the sound of ice breaking up. Sort of a cross between an underwater cannon and a muffled pile driver, at first we thought it was the construction happening on the north side of the pond. But as daddy made a turn and heard a cracking sound, we knew this mild new year's eve was bad news for the ice.

We quickly rounded up the kids, got off the ice, removed our skates and loaded the car with tobaggans and pails and shovels and headed to the dunes at Sandbanks. We had the whole beach to ourselves. Of course, it was hovering around the freezing mark,and no one dared to swim, but it was a lot of fun. We had a snowball fight lasting 2 minutes because we used up all the snow, made snow/sand castles, and attempted tobaggoning down the dunes. Unfortunately, the sand was wet and the friction too great. Better luck with dry sand in the spring.

Apologies for the quality of the pics...we had only our cell phones.

Post Christmas Crazies

2010-12-26T22:59:00.001-05:00

Myra (sorry, i mean Elf) and Vincent heard we were going tobogganing so they felt they needed to practice.

And when Vincent is away the Elf will play (the drums, that is).

The best part of Christmas Baking...

2010-12-24T22:52:00.002-05:00

...is not licking the spoon, but having someone small offer to clean up the mess!

Trim Trim Teree

2010-12-22T22:47:00.001-05:00

Myra is making and eating a Santa sandwich. She now says "Call me Elf." We suspect it's because she's realized the great responsibility of delivering the gifts all on one night. Plus she told Daddy that she doesn't like to go into chimneys and fireplaces.

Tree Trimmin Two: Electric Boogaloo

2010-12-19T22:38:00.003-05:00

Mummy found some old-timey tinsel so it was back to the tree. Please note that tree adjustments are undertaken at one's own risk. Entanglements can lead to strangulation so trim with caution.

Further adventures of Woody and Buzz at GWL

2010-12-16T21:20:00.002-05:00

As we check in with our heroes, it seems they have lost their mummy while looking at a massive gingerbread house.
Woody looks left.

Then he looks right. No sign of her anywhere.

If Mummy doesn't show up soon, Buzz will go home with this snowgirl.

Buzz and Woody at Great Wolf

2010-12-15T19:25:00.001-05:00

Tree Trimmin

2010-12-05T19:22:00.001-05:00

Vincent picked the tree. He walked up to the firs, scratched his chin, poked his head behind one of the front trees and pointed at a bagged 7 footer and said, "that one!" It was a perfect fit and smells beautiful.

This year, all hands can decorate. Myra got in on the action too.

Few ornaments were harmed in the trimming of this tree. Well, one elf lost its legs but that's what crazy glue is for.

This is Vincent. Without eggnog. Rumballs. Wine. Beer. Without any excuse really. Yes, he's hiding under pine boughs and wearing a mask.

Snow angels

2010-12-05T19:14:00.002-05:00

Although our first snow fall of the season left little on the ground, the kids insisted on wearing snow pants and making a snowman. When they realized there wasn't enough white stuff for that, they settled for snow angels. Grass angels?

Gingerbread house

2010-12-03T19:18:00.001-05:00

Today's big activity: Decorate a gingerbread house!

After chasing one too many round candies off the table and onto the floor, we soon learned the importance of containing the hard candy in small bowls.

It didn't take long for Myra to discover the candy was not just good for decorating but for eating too.

And this was the stickiest project of the season...until we put up the tree.

Myra is Santa

2010-11-30T19:32:00.005-05:00

Myra comes up with some good ones now and then. But the most favourite in Myra Metro lately is her insistence that she is Santa.

Example:
MUMMY: Myra?
MYRA: Santa!
MUMMY: Sorry. Santa?
MYRA: Wot?

And when she went into school and saw that someone brought in a stuffed Santa for show and tell, her first words when she saw it were, "Look, Daddy! It's me!"

Mummy found Myra taking her food from her plate and seeming to put it under the table. Curious, she asked, "What are you doing, Myra?"
"SANTA!"
"Right. Sorry. Santa? What are you doing with your food?"
"Feeding my reindeer."

Daddy has been asked everywhere we go to make sure that the reindeer are tied up securely. Apparently, shopping carts and car seats are "Santa's sleigh."

How long can this elaborate game continue?

Kids' first pizza

2010-11-23T19:17:00.002-05:00

Today Vincent and Myra made their first pizza. Myra really liked blending the ingredients of the dough together while Vincent especially enjoyed rolling out the dough. Myra is very particular about the placing of the pepperoni and achieves quite even spacing between them. Vincent liked shredding the cheese although Daddy was concerned about having little finger slices on the pizza so he took over early in the process and let him spread it on top instead.

When the pie was done they were so proud they insisted on taking a picture of it with their cameras. It tasted good whether the photo is upside down or not.

Myra and the Totoro Gourd

2010-10-31T19:22:00.003-04:00

The colour and shape suggested "Totoro!"

Thanks Auntie Ellen for the design.

And here's the Black Pearl pirate ship in the cool light of day. It was also the site of a rollicking party by night where the kids carved pumpkins and pinned the parrot on the pirate. A fabulous Milford Hallowe'en.

Pepe and Kitty

2010-10-30T19:17:00.004-04:00

One skunk, One cat, One pirate. Two Hallowe'en parties at two schools. Separating the skunk and the cat was not supposed to be so easy. At least, Pepe Le Pew never made it so easy.

Mreoir!!

An excited little stinker who can't wait to go to school...

Hard to contain the excitement long enough to get a photo together!

The Island of Dr. Huxtable

2010-10-29T19:26:00.003-04:00

Time to check out Vincent's new birthday gadgets including the science kit home genetic splicing game. He tried it on himself. First his head began to melt and distort...

Then something new and terrifying emerged...

The mad scientist's face began to take shape.

Not sure if it's an improvement or not, but the sweaters that were fitting tight over his head now slip on with ease. So that's something, i guess.

"Has it ever occurred to you that you may have totally lost your mind?"--David Thewlis as Edward Douglas.

Happy Birthday Mummy!!

2010-10-26T06:13:00.000-04:00

Dear Mummy,

I breast feed?

Myra!

Wot?

It's mummy's birthday. Let's give her a break. I'm going to sleep in until 5am.

I'm going to make her coffee double double.

Daddy said he's taking her out for breakfast.

Can i come?

No, Myra. You have to go to Mary Debbie school.

I come for just a little bit. I want to go with you.

I'm not going. I have school. We are Beaches we are great. We have to get going and we can't be late.

Stop singing Vincent. Now.

MUMMY!!! She's awake, Myra! MUMMY! I knew you were not sleeping. I wake you up! I love you. You make my heart happy.

Mummy, I love you too. Hug.

Mummy. Say you love me. Say it!

OK, Vincent. I love you.

I love you too, Mummy. Happy Birthday.

Thanks guys.

You're welcome.

I breast feed?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TARA. HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY!

Happy Days

2010-10-25T23:33:00.000-04:00

Relaxing at home in Milford

Wellington Park

2010-10-24T23:25:00.000-04:00

Mummy and Daddy's favourite park...lakeside, natural wood and a Tall Poppy cafe down the street.

Crazy Park

2010-10-23T23:22:00.000-04:00

Vincent and Myra's favourite park: the new youth park in Picton

Going batty

2010-10-22T23:29:00.000-04:00

Pumpkinland

2010-10-21T23:16:00.002-04:00

First school field trip...children of the corn

pumpkins. precious pumpkins.

Happy 4th Birthday Vincent!

2010-10-18T06:34:00.002-04:00

Dear Vincent,

It is now exactly four years ago you rushed into the world to see us and you’ve remained so ‘you’ even though your third year of life has seen so many changes – starting school, learning to use the potty and the birth of “County Vincent.” You remain the weirdest, coolest, most off-beat little guy ever and we are so happy to have you in our lives.

We love how protective you are of Myra. You take it upon yourself to look after her and make sure she is always safe and happy. You hold her hand when she’s scared or to slow her down when crossing the road.

You are very concerned with justice and fairness and enjoy sharing what you have with your family, even if it’s your favourite candy. You have the biggest heart and feel things deeply and with your whole being. You are especially in tune with the feelings of others and know just what to say to make things right or what to do to make things better.

You love little rituals and embrace routines and rules. You are GPS boy and recognize a cue in the landscape and know instantly where we’re going. It’s remarkable how you can remember minute details about places we’ve been and what happened there the last time we visited.

We love how outdoors Vincent is still the happiest Vincent. You light up when at the beach, throwing stones in the water. You like to go on ‘adventures’ exploring new places and seeing where paths go…straying off the path but finding your way back again. Of course, in a corn maze you would rather wander into the plantings than follow the established path, always looking back mischievously to see if we are still with you. You love to ride your bike and have become very confident at turning sharply at speed and riding up the ramp at the Milford church. You haven’t mastered braking yet which has made for at least one good story about the time you landed in the bush without a helmet.

You are a thrill seeker. Whether it’s an unfenced outcropping of boulders several feet above a rushing waterfall, or a giant new slide at the playground, you delight in adventure and don’t have the same regard for danger as your mum and dad. Yet you also surprise us when demonstrating that you are aware of limits and tell us that something is “not safe.” For a while you thought the expression was “that’s too safe.”

You are incredibly good at puzzles and building elaborate train tracks. Trains make you lose track of time, and you are very serious about them. You continue to show a real love for dance and have developed some incredible floorwork. Lately, you’ve been obsessed with learning to tell time and reading. You update us on what time it is throughout the day. Going to the library remains one of your favourite pastimes. On library day at school you have been working your way through the Little Men series. You are becoming such a big guy -- always eager to go to school and see your friends each morning (even weekends!) And you like to recount your favourite parts of the day, and tell us “That’s what I like!”

Vincent, thank you for being you and sharing yourself with us every day. We are so glad you chose us as your parents. Happy 4th birthday Vincent. You’re the best.

Fall Fair

2010-09-30T22:40:00.000-04:00

The fair was exhibiting a wonderful new technology for parent sanity. Called a "play pen" you put your child inside and then relax, have tea (or coffee), bonbons, etc. without worrying about your child getting hurt or needing care and attention in any way. Rabbits optional.

We put Vincent in to test it out. We will return for him, soon.

Myra's "pretties"

2010-09-28T22:22:00.000-04:00

Get a good look now while you can. It only lasts a matter of seconds before Myra is pulling out the "pretties" that turn her hair into cuteness. What would it take to keep her hair like this? We've tried many things.

Milford fair

2010-09-23T23:12:00.000-04:00

Painting pumpkins at the Milford fair.
Note the candy necklace, acquired by a kindly stranger during the parade. Myra couldn't quite get over the fact you can actually wear candy. She nibbled on it all day with great delight.

Lazy days of summer

2010-09-22T23:15:00.000-04:00

We love the old timey feel of this photo of Myra and her great grandpa hanging out on the porch in Milford.

School days

2010-09-21T23:06:00.003-04:00

Vincent during his first 'special helper' day at school. He loved the responsibility of shaking the shaker to signal the beginning of school and enjoyed sitting in the rocking chair. His show and tell item? A seashell. But only after much deliberation (Scaredy Squirrel was also in the running but Vincent was concerned it might get ripped. He also considered taking his drum but decided it was too special to risk leaving the house)

First day of school

2010-09-10T22:13:00.003-04:00

Cirque can't beat umbrellas and puddles

2010-07-25T09:04:00.000-04:00

When Vincent and Myra saw their first Cirque du Soleil show, it was a big deal. Vincent cried at the intermission because he did not want the show to stop and he refused to leave his seat because he was too excited to see more. He kept insisting we go back in the tent.

We forgot our camera so these are all cell phone pics taken to capture the newfound fun that surpassed the thrills of Cirque. First, the umbrellas. Purchased as a functional souvenir as the rain started when the show ended, the umbrellas soon became the point of the whole evening.

Ah....but then it was discovered that cobblestones make great puddles, and many of the puddles are unavoidable.

Soon, the mother of all puddles was found and since feet were already soaked and a change of clothes already on hand, the imps were permitted to splash to their hearts' content. Passers-by seemed alternately amused (jealous) or horrified (also jealous). Consequently, we were given the nod as BEST. PARENTS. EVER. for allowing such fun. Everyone wants to jump in puddles, right?

One group passing by slowed to watch Vincent's rendition of "singin' in the rain" and then engaged in a heated conversation among themselves. Finally, one turned to us and asked, "Avez-vous un change?" "Oui," we replied and nodded at our diaper bag. They seemed satisfied and continued on without dialing Children's Aid. Another snatch of conversation between a couple: MAN: Inaudible...inaudible...but how can they let that happen?
WOMAN: Because, it's fun! Look at them. They're doing what we all want to do.
MAN: [bemused shrug]

Celebrating all things Moo

2010-07-19T01:02:00.003-04:00

Dear Myra,

Our sweet, sweet Myra Moo. You are a bundle of joy and we are so lucky to have you in our lives. You are everything that is right in the world -- a beautiful example of tenderness, kindness, and love.

You are filled with calmness and joy. You don’t walk, you bounce with happiness. You take such good care of us. You ask us ‘you okay?’ if the slightest thing appears to be wrong and you dole out kisses and hugs as required. You even fix us ‘double double’s in your play kitchen or at park windows.

Right now one of your favourite things to do is draw and paint. You have been practicing making the perfect circle for weeks and implore us constantly to help you draw happy faces.

You love animals -- cats, dogs and cows especially. You still love water and live for bathtime. You’ve recently discovered the joys of swimming in the lake. You are bold and brave in the water…jumping in face first even though you can’t swim. You adore picking peas from the garden and insist on opening them up for yourself. You have an incredible need for independence. One of your most common expressions is “Let me do that!” and it applies to almost everything…putting on your own shoes, dressing yourself, fastening your own carseat belt…the list goes on and on.

You are playful. You bait the men in your life…giving Grandpa and Pere that sly look. You meow like a cat and blow wishes with dandelions. You humour Vincent by playing along with his antics and are a patient, accommodating sister. You are also a bit devious and no amount of babyproofing can stop you from trying to get into the medicine and hand sanitizer.

You love the good things in life -- a delicious meal, a nice backrub, lazing around with a book. You have a remarkable number of words and have been speaking in complete sentences for months now. You are very clear about what you need: “more cheese!”, “breastfeed!” and you know how to stick up for yourself and defend those you love.

Thank you for choosing us to love, Myra. We will continue to try to live up to the honour of being your parents. Happy 2nd birthday our beautiful baby girl.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T08:42:00.007-04:00

To Jean-Paul for your kind heart and your selfless dedication to your family.

To big Vince for being the best Pere and for teaching Jean-Paul to be the amazing father he is.

And to Grandpa for everything.

Anatomy of a Port Hope Photo-op

2010-06-18T13:45:00.001-04:00

The photo.

BEHIND THE SCENES:
Vincent scouts out the perfect location to see the river, possibly a fish (wrong season, but he's ever hopeful), and brother and sister smiling. He's found the tree, but can't convince his Myra Moo to stand with him. Says Myra: "Vincent, I will."

Finally she comes but no one will look up.

Quickly, the handholding won't last long...

And as soon as it happened, the Moo disperses. Forget the fish, off to get chips with Mere. Not Sturgeon, but pretty good.

La Myra the ham

2010-06-17T13:31:00.002-04:00

While in Montreal, Myra attempted to perfect her French pout. This look has been embellished with the delightful phrase: "Go AWAY!"

But she still likes to pose for the camera...

Parc La Fontaine

2010-06-16T13:15:00.003-04:00

Vincent and Myra did not want to leave this place. Even with promises of chocolate.

Montreal vu par Vincent et Myra (part deux)

2010-06-15T13:06:00.002-04:00

Vincent and Myra checked out the Biodome on the rainy day. And stayed awake long enough for Mummy and Daddy to get their Le Commensal fix in for lunch.

Montreal vu par Vincent et Myra

2010-06-15T01:22:00.000-04:00

If you look carefully you can see Mont Real in the background with its distinctive cross. Forest fires made it smoggy the days preceding this picture but this was the clearest it was visible all week. Vincent is looking for dogs to pet. Myra wants a rest. Mummy is having no luck convincing Daddy that the slope of Avenue du Parc is more than 15 degrees and that if she is forced to walk it there may be a runaway stroller. Daddy is freaking out about being late for his presentation. Vincent is now saying that it has to be the same dog that he pet two days previously.

Shiny happy people

2010-06-14T14:09:00.000-04:00

A few happy, proud faces in Montreal. More to come...

"I want my tutu"

2010-06-06T19:07:00.001-04:00

C'mon Carrara. I wanna dance.

Back in business

2010-04-03T21:19:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the long silence on VincentVille and MyraMetro. These past few months have been filled with much fun and joy.
A few milestones:
-In early February Myra started asking 'why'? to everything. The most hilarious thing is hearing Vincent answer and pose a few why's? of his own.
-Myra has been going through a major "I do that!" phase along with her love of being "na-ked!"
-Vincent has been showing a real love of dance, requesting "Vincent music" at every opportunity. Vincent music has been interpreted (we think correctly) as anything punky and fast. Dead Kennedys and Joy Division are particular favourites.

And so it begins...

2010-02-04T06:11:00.000-05:00

Dinner is served

2010-02-04T05:51:00.003-05:00

What are they building in there?

2009-12-18T17:31:00.000-05:00

Lady in black

2009-12-16T17:06:00.000-05:00

The stockings were hung

2009-12-15T17:09:00.000-05:00

Another view

2009-12-14T17:16:00.000-05:00

And we thought that window nook was for cooling pies...

APB

2009-12-13T17:13:00.000-05:00

The kissing bandit has been spotted in Milford

Parlez-Vous Francais?

2009-12-12T17:11:00.002-05:00

Trimming the tree

2009-12-11T17:04:00.000-05:00

The strange creative genius of a 3-year-old.

Homeward Bound

2009-12-10T17:29:00.001-05:00

Santa comes to the County

2009-12-10T16:59:00.001-05:00

Ahoy, I see pirates.

Myra is not impressed

The big man himself

A talking moo

2009-12-03T23:10:00.000-05:00

some of the words that Myra is saying lately:

"Sit!"
"I know."
"Tickle!"
"Oh no."
mmmmmm
more
all done
i love you
breastfeed
hello
hi
bye
goodbye!
apple
look
that?

and what would a post be without a little dose of V:

Happy Halloween

2009-11-01T13:03:00.002-05:00

Thanks for bringing the camera, Auntie. We hope you recovered from the dragon/monkey attack.

What evil lurks in the hearts of big brothers?

2009-10-30T02:10:00.000-04:00

In Loving Memory

2009-10-21T08:09:00.009-04:00

Grandma holding Vincent for the very first time in the hand-knit gown she made him.

Grandma holding Myra for the first time.

From your 'going in the car car' to the game of "button button who's got the button?" your tickling toes in the car to your weekly delivery of 'choco' we will never forget everything you are and everything you have given us. We treasure our days with you and they will never be forgotten.

Joan Katherine Harper (nee Adamson)
August 10, 1933 - October 20, 2009
We will miss you forever Grandma.

Happy Birthday Vincent

2009-10-18T06:34:00.004-04:00

Dear Vincent,

Wow these were the longest and shortest three years of our lives. Three years ago today, at this very second, we got to see your beautiful face for the very first time. This past year has been filled with so much growth and joy and we are thankful every day that you are our son.

Getting to know ‘talking Vincent’ has been a fascinating journey (and a little scary) and we are so grateful to know you. Now that you have words we are learning so much more about who you are and what you are thinking and feeling. And you know what? You are just as fun and strange as we always suspected.

You are a natural born entertainer. One of the most wonderful things this year has been seeing how much you enjoy performing -- tap dancing, piano playing, guitar playing -- it all comes so naturally to you. We’ve loved watching you ‘sing in the rain’ and ‘watch dance show’

We enjoy seeing how much you love Myra (even though you still address her as ‘baby’). You are such a a fierce protector of your family and would do anything to keep things in harmony. You have a natural ability to read people and are very in tune with others’ feelings. You feel hurtful words as pain and it breaks our heart to see you try to play with other kids who don’t reciprocate your joy.

You have helped us in so many ways. You always manage to lighten our mood. And you take care of us in the most precious, loving way; holding our hand or confirming ‘you okay?” You even sing us lullabies when you think we need calming.

You are so polite and helpful…a favourite phrase is ‘thank you so much’ and are always contributing to the family and wanting to do your part (while singing your ‘teamwork’ song…so very cute). You love building things with your daddy…helping hammer anything, build chairs, or carry bags in from the car.

You love visits with your family so much. Not a day goes by that we don’t hear ‘ I want Grandma' (or Pere or Auntie Lindsay etc). 'No, I NEED Grandma.'

You still are not an easy child. You feel everything so passionately…you are either very HAPPY or very SAD. There is no middle ground with you. And you still are a little dictator. But now your ‘do do do’ has changed to be more specific, like ‘you go in the bath’ or ‘you go to the library’. One thing is for sure -- there’s never any mistaking what you want.

Vincent, you are so very you. There has never been anyone like you and never will be again. How lucky we are that you chose us as parents. Happy 3rd birthday…we look forward to many more adventures with you in the years to come.

Bunny my honey

2009-09-08T21:26:00.004-04:00

Just like my cuz...

Today, Myra mastered the art of walking. Yes, she has officially joined the biped club.

"I did it!"

2009-08-31T01:33:00.000-04:00

Setting the trap

2009-08-30T00:02:00.000-04:00

First Myra lays the bait. Then she bides her time....

Soon, a curious Vincent approaches. Until....

Caught! in the treacherous tentacles of a monster larger than life.

And sadly, it wasn't the first time for this family...

Who you calling fat tuesday?

2009-08-28T22:19:00.000-04:00

It is August, so the moo is perplexed to see a Mardi Gras parade approaching. Auntie seems to find it all very funny.

Vincent gets into the fun once the beads are thrown his way.

"People do WHAT for beads? Mummy! No way, ok, no."

A pleased Myra looks back one more time to see if any more marching bands will be turning the corner.

And I'm spent. Draw my bath, parents.

The Kisser

2009-08-28T00:51:00.008-04:00

This is an All Points Bulletin. Be on the lookout for a baby kisser. Whereabouts unknown but most likely in the borough of East York. The assailant plants smooches on unsuspecting babies then disappears as quickly as he arrived. Has also been spotted in Cobourg, and Ohsweken. The public is warned to keep their distance and avoid carrying timbits as they may attract his attention.

All about Moo

2009-07-29T19:09:00.001-04:00

We celebrated Myra's first year with a trip to Mummy's hometown, Port Dalhousie
Lots of mucking about in the lake and a few spins on the 5 cent/ride antique carouselMoo.

More than a party...

2009-07-26T19:21:00.002-04:00

Myra and mama at Myra's 1st Birthday Party

The goods: Banana cake with vegan cream cheese frosting & Chocolate cupcakes with 'buttercream' frosting

Myra: "What do you mean I have to do the dishes?!"

Great Wolf Splash

2009-07-26T19:13:00.003-04:00

Happy 1st Birthday Myra!

2009-07-19T01:02:00.001-04:00

Dearest Myra,

Our little Myra Moo, Myra Mae….we love you so much. You have a gentle spirit and are kind, sensitive and thoughtful. You are patient, unassuming and generous (but you can also be ferocious when you perceive a wrong or want something badly enough)!

You have a wicked sense of humour. You love to make us laugh and will go to great lengths to get Vincent in on the joke. Your giggle is infectious and delightful.

You are passionate about good food and love long, leisurely meals and nursing sessions. You enjoy nourishing others and sharing your food with us.

You enjoy listening to and creating music - drumming especially. We love how your little index finger waves in time to a song…it’s as if you are conducting your own personal orchestra.

We love the face that you make when you discover something new. And how you raise your eyebrow just a little to make sure we’re in on a good joke. You’re a bit of a flirt and can charm anyone with that look.

You are sweet and gentle, tender and loving. A true girly girl.

There is this strangely athletic side to you as well. Daddy is constantly amazed by your ability to throw and catch a ball with such precision and force -- and at such a young age.

When we think back to how you came into the world (and it was at this very second one year ago today) your birth was so much like who you are now. You waited until just the right moment to begin your journey…we asked you to wait until that very day. And you did. When Mummy was upset being in the hospital you stopped your labour to let her come home and rest in bed with Vincent. You knew just what we needed and were happy to oblige.

Myra, words can’t express how grateful we are for you every single day. We are so fortunate to have you in our lives. We are blessed by your presence and appreciate the balance you bring to our family - you have made us complete.

We are truly humbled and honoured to be your Mama and Dada. Happy 1st Birthday our sweet little one.

That's how I roll...

2009-07-08T21:08:00.000-04:00

At the market

2009-06-27T21:12:00.000-04:00

Said Picky Vincent to Market Myra, "Let me taste your wares."

"For you, five dollars! C'mon, everybody! Look at this loaf! Fresh baked today! Can I interest you in some pickles to go with? Three for five! THree for five! Have I got a deal for you?"

"Mmmmmm. Pears."

Myra shows some skill with a mortar and pestle.

"Mmmmmmmm. Pears."

School's out for summer....

2009-06-24T23:53:00.002-04:00

Vincent had his last day of school today. Though we're pretty sure every single morning in the summer will still begin with Mary. Debbie. Debbie. Debbie. Okay. Go!

Personalized cupcakes made the day even sweeter. Please note that in the 0.12 seconds it took us to grab the camera half the icing and the entire edible portrait of Vincent had 'mysteriously' disappeared.

Myra was the proud sister, clapping and cheering Vincent on as he received his diploma.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T00:01:00.002-04:00

Dear Jean-Paul,

This is the moment I knew you would be an amazing father.

When I met you I knew you were beautiful, funny, smart and that I would know you forever. What I didn't know then is how devoted you would be to your family. How selfless you would be with your time and your love.

Watching you father our children has made my love for you deepen and strengthen in a way I could never have imagined. You truly amaze me every single day. You are raising our children to be the kind of people this world needs more of -- the kind of person I see in you.

Happy Father's Day
x/o
tara

The holy grail of parenting

2009-06-16T21:02:00.003-04:00

Two children in the swings at the same time.

All about Myra

2009-06-15T21:16:00.003-04:00

Origami goddess.

Where's the fire?

In the driver's seat.

Dressed up for a night on the (C)-town (on Carrara's fourth b-day).

Check it out! No. Really. I'm checking out. Your cash is what I expect right now. Pay up.

Vincent of Arabia

2009-06-14T20:52:00.005-04:00

Vincent in pyramid: "I want my mummy."

Myra: "Vincent, you do not have the skills. You are merely an adequate opponent."

Myra: "Hmmmm. Sore loser."

Vincent of Arabia: "Look. The air is filling with sand."

Myra of Arabia: "Four out of five babies prefer camels."

Happy Mother's Day 09

2009-05-10T00:01:00.005-04:00

This is Myra's first Mother's Day.

That's why she's in all the pictures.

Like this one...

...and here too.

"It's always Myra, Myra, Myra!"

You are the best mummy ever. You are so caring, loving and fun. You give everything and more to ensure the best for Vincent and Myra and that's why they always say "MUMMY!!!" with smiles and laughs that emanate from their entire bodies. Thanks for being the best mummy ever. Happy Mother's Day!

what a month...

2009-04-25T23:30:00.002-04:00

Myra got her first tooth and loves standing. Vincent's latest phrase is a proud "I did it!" accompanied by rounds of clapping. But it's been a tough month. Sickness and pneumonia has continued to stalk the family. Here's looking forward to a better May....

Toddler run (better late than never)

2009-04-24T21:46:00.000-04:00

Go. And build me a pyramid. There.
who died and made you pharaoh?

Hmmm. How does Vincent do it? He can defy gravity and complete the loop!
[Pay no attention to that girl next door by the computer]

This new learning astounds me!

She blinded me with science

2009-04-22T21:52:00.000-04:00

Some old pics from Vincent and Myra's first visit to the Ontario Science Centre. Myra was wowed by the lights. Vincent liked to climb and hit things.

Thursdays with Grammy...

2009-03-19T07:00:00.000-04:00