Music to My Ears

I had just been telling people last week that as much as the twins like music - they don't sing much, other than their ABCs.

This morning they gave me the ultimate birthday present. Judson took the day off, so we were able to "sleep in." Instead of waking to calls, or demands, for us to get them out of bed, we woke to the glorious sounds of Frosty the Snowman and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. They would take turns and even help each other out when a word or phrase wasn't known. This went on for a good 20 minutes!

We spent the morning lounging and getting ready for a puppet show at the Indiana State Museum. The puppet show was fabulous and the kids were on the edge of their seats (or our laps). They clapped and cheered. Afterward, when we were able to go see some of the puppets, the twins wanted to see the young ballerina (live human). Thomas was quite enamored.

We followed the puppet show with a walk around the museum while awaiting our reservations at the L.S. Ayres Tea Room. Veronica and Thomas are now big fans of the Chicken Velvet Soup - one of Daddy's favorites from his memories of the original Tea Room.

Home for another holiday nap. We split up on our way to dinner so that I could go to the library. When we met at Italian Gardens, I was greeted by a couple kids saying, "Happy birdy." The dinner was delicious. T&V decided that Daddy's spaghetti looked more appealing than their ziti, so Daddy was nice to share. Thomas, for one, decided that the spaghetti was much more fun. A man passing our table noticed to, "There's that cowboy who knows how to lasso spaghetti." Thomas enjoyed the fact that he could be a cowboy and reminded us of that the rest of the evening.

Judson took the kids home and put them to bed while I did some art supply and grocery shopping. We ended the evening by the fire eating our favorite Italian Gardens dessert - Fried Apple Ravioli a la mode with caramel on top.

Great birthday.

Santa, Baby

As promised, Santa came to our house this morning since we weren't here on Christmas. He must have thought there was something wrong with our chimney though because he decided to knock on the door. I answered it and told him "Merry Christmas." The twins heard him and starting crying, "I want to see Santa!" Santa quickly put their gifts under the tree and left... we had to explain to the kids that children are not allowed to see Santa on Christmas because it could spoil the magic.

They quickly recovered from this news when they saw the gifts under the tree. We spent a great morning playing with our toys - especially cooking with our new kitchen and using the new train set. We then watched a Frosty as a family.



After a glorious nap, the twins and I headed to Plainfield for the Kluegs' annual Euchre party. There were a lot of kids there so it was quite overwhelming at first. I told the Kluegs that I didn't want to play because I thought I would have my hands full, but they put me in anyway. Someone filled my spot until the kids were ready to play a little more independently and I had the honor of teaming up with Anita's dad. We had a really good run until the last game. All the while poor Mary, the young girl in charge of the kids, spent most of her evening carrying one twin or the other up the stairs to me. Every time she would leave, however, they would want to go back with her. She was awfully patient and this gave us all a chance to have a good time.

Princess

We spent the night in North Vernon to let Judson get his work done. So, it's always fun to wake up at Mak & Pa's house!

It was a gorgeous day outside today. All we needed were sweatshirts to head outside to the neighborhood park. Upon reaching the top of the slide, Veronica proclaimed, "The princess go down the slide!" The princess?!?!? Uh, oh - here we go!

Shortly after nap time we loaded up to relieve Daddy from his work and check out the zoo trains again. While in the car, Thomas must have been considering Veronica's new title. He must of thought it was a cool one because he announced, "I a princess!" Our littlest princess was not too happy about this. She thought there was not enough room for more than one princess in our kingdom. So, a royal meltdown ensued from the female portion of the rear carriage. Hoping to keep peace in the kingdom, I told Thomas that a boy is a prince. This seemed to satisfy them both.

Because there was no waiting to go see the trains, we did the Hardee's-monorail-view-dinner again. The line at the zoo was much longer for the train this time because the weather was nicer. It took all the twins patience (they were very good about it!) to wait, but they were satisfied with the trip. We returned to the indoor display again as well.

Judson and I settled in to prepare for Santa's visit. He had agreed to come to our house late since we were to be gone on Christmas.

York

Another rockin' party with the Yorks. Unfortunately, Judson had to work, so we went to Madison without him. So many wonderful people there - the twins seemed rather comfortable too.

Thomas got to play a guitar. Veronica spied a cat. We watched Uncle Paul juggle while listening to Harlan's band. (Veronica would clap and say, "Play it again," after each song.) And, at the end of the evening, when most folks were gone, Aunt Peggy brought in her new dog Sally and let the kids love all over her!

Born on Christmas Day

"Where are the angels?" This was the first question out of Thomas's mouth this morning. Then, he decided to go toward the nativity scene (which he cannot see without being held) and requested to "kiss the baby." What beautiful intuition.

We went to church were the twins gave us quite a surprising treat and wanted Mommy and Daddy to hold them for most of the service (instead of the usual request - Mamak and Pa, or the special visitors - Danny and Dawn).

After Mass, both Veronica and Thomas needed to go see Baby Jesus, Joseph (Josess) and Mary (Murray)... and the cows, donkey, and sheep. Thomas also got a kick out of watching the Marvelous Martin McClellan play the recessional on the piano.

After Mass, we returned to the Struck Scene and played some more with the fabulous gifts (and received more - Pooh animals and a tea set!)

After a good Christmas nap, we were headed to The Cheathams' for more festivities. Veronica and Thomas settled right in. They had a great visit and play time with their soon-to-be four-year-old cousin Jaclyn. Jaclyn was a great sport when it came to sharing. She not only shared her NEW toys, but she also made sure everyone always had something to play with.

Twas the Night before Christmas

December 24 - starting new family traditions. Not all the Strucks could get together on the 25th, so this year we are Christmas Eve-ing it!

Mom and Dad still had the kids from Monday. (I couldn't make it down yesterday as someone decided to include me in a tire-slashing rampage at the hospital). With one new tire, I headed down south hoping to get in on the festivities early. (Judson was coming later, after work).

My first stop was a visit to the cemetery to see Julianne and David's resting place. We put an engraving of two lambs (our littlest lambs) next to the Baby Jesus. Christmas is an interesting time - it's wonderful and lovely, but there will always be something - someones- missing. It's a bittersweet thing. I love to imagine them up in Heaven celebrating Jesus's birthday with Him. But, that still doesn't make me long to hold them any less. Today and decided to sing some carols. I love Christmas carols, but several hit me a little hard. They are reassuring, yet heart wrenching:

Silent Night

Sleep in Heavenly Peace. (I know that's what they do every day now.)

Away In a Manger

Be near me Lord Jesus
I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever
And love me I pray.
Bless all the dear Children
In Thy tender care,
And take us to Heaven
To live with Thee there.

I arrived at Mom and Dad's house still unable to control my tears. Fortunately, my family is super-loving and they all made me feel as if it were a normal and proper thing to do.
By the time Judson arrived the party was in full swing! Veronica and Thomas had a ball! Danny, Dawn, Thad, Paula, Mamak, Pa - all in the same room!! And presents to boot! First gift opened was Mr. Potato head, compliments of Danny and Dawn. That was fun. Almost didn't need anything else. They played and played and played with it! The tension in the room grew though as you could tell the rivalry between uncles for a great holiday gift. Then, viola! Uncle T and Aunt P pulled out the amazing basketball goal! I think this game was tied!

A little lesson in money from Uncle T...

...the old coin-behind -your-ear trick!

Playing Superman with SuperDan!

Reindeer in a Mask

I have a doctor appointment tomorrow morning, so Mak and Pa have been gracious (as always) enough to keep V&T overnight. The catch? They both had appointments in Columbus, so we had to meet them there.

Mom's appointment was at Dr. Rudolph's office, her dentist. Dr. Rudolph is a wonderful guy who had been my dentist for most of my life and he was the father of twins. So, Mom requested I bring the twins into the office to introduce them to Dr. Rudolph. They were a little shy in the waiting room. Dr. Rudolph peaked our and said hello - they just stared in return. He told us she'd be a while longer and that we should pick up Dad first. All was well until... a hygienist walked by in a mask. Thomas became quite upset. We left in a hurry. On our way to pick up Pa, Thomas said, "Why reindeer where mask?" (Get it? Dr. Rudolph?)

Garfield is the new Tigger

Looking at the comics this morning... we were quite interested in "Tigger" (aka Garfield).

Christmas Trifecta

We had three Christmas parties to attend today. The one in the middle included a visit with Aunt Nana and Uncle Dave, so we thought we should open her birthday presents before we did anything...

Thomas went first (naturally, he's really into the gift-opening). .. "Wow (with awe), Cars. (with awe again)." Veronica then opened hers... She hopped up before anyone else could see what she had, "Where Amy? Where Amy?" She was running around the house - She got baby bottles in her gift.

First Christmas stop - Community East Hospital to meet our friends Carol, Emily, and her Grandmother. They had a great set-up. First we got to pet a live reindeer (or Veronica did anyway). Then, we waited to see Santa. They both said they wanted to. We suggested stepping out of line once or twice, but they were ready... until we got there.

Then we settled ourselves down with some cookies and a carriage ride. That was probably their favorite part. (It took the ride though to convince them that the white horse was not cow though. They new the black one was a horse.)

A quick snack was followed by a drive/nap to Jason's house where he and Nora had planned quite a party! Delicious food, great decorations, and lots of our favorite people!

The ever-so-gracious host and hostess!

"Madwin & JuJu"

We stopped at Culvers' for dinner where Thomas learned a new (and apparently hilarious) catch-phrase: "Enjoy your food!" When he wasn't reciting this on the way home, it was requests for Mommy to sing songs. However, the requests became a power-struggle. Thomas would as for Jingle Bells. Veronica would cry, "No, my turn!" When given a turn she'd ask for... Jingle Bells.

Finally we were at our finally party of the day - a nice neighborhood party offered by Heather and Art. The twins were quite impressed with the blazing fire and thought is was an amazing candle!

It started this morning...

"Why?"
"Why?"
"Why?"
"Why?"
"Why?"

In stereo!

Judson says it actually began last night when he had them to himself. And so it begins...

In other news we had quite a play date at Carolyn's house today. Four mamas and 7 kiddos. Excitement all around!

In the evening we went to pick Daddy up from work for Christmas at the Zoo... and trains. I goofed and told the twins what we were going to do. So, they were not in the mood to grab dinner. Compromise... Go to the downtown Hardees and sit near the window where we can watch the train (monorail). Worked well.

It seemed to be a "warmer" day, so we decided to check out the lights at the zoo first... we didn't count on the wind and the windchill it brought. So, with chattering teeth, we rode the zoo train!

In Santa's workshop we were able to see a live reindeer - the twins did not want to leave it!

Onto the toy train exhibit (indoors!). We were slowed a little to get there as we had to pass the gift shop. Veronica picked up almost every stuffed animal and hugged and kissed them.

The toy train set-up was beautiful. It had us all awe-filled! :)

names

Today we were playing at Robert's house. There was a little toy (probably from a Happy Meal) that was a 3 inch tall boy. He has a removable mask. Thomas is drawn to this toy. Today he asked me what the boy's name was. I started naming boys names. After each suggestion he would say, "No." Finally he pondered for a minute and said, "Jimmy." So, of course we got permission (Thanks, Robert!) to take Jimmy home.

Veronica watched all of this and then asked me what her baby's name was. I just turned the question over to her (learning from the session with Thomas). She thought for a moment and told me, "Amy."

We carried Jimmy and Amy to the car, getting frustrated each time Jimmy's mask popped off. Finally, they both insisted on taking their naps with their new friends. At least we compromised that no one sleeps in masks. Whew!

TwosRUs

Today my babies turned two. My little tiny miracles show me miracles every day as they grow into bigger miracles.

We decided to throw a party in North Vernon as to reduce the travel for most of the attendees. It worked that we were actually able to do it on their birthday!

We drove down yesterday in the late afternoon. Dad was waiting at the door, ready to hand us tickets to a great show. What a great birthday gift to Mommy and Daddy... a night out... with live music! The show was a Christmas special starring Brenda Williams. She was a fabulous jazz singer. Her guest star was quite a performer... Jimmy Guilford, a talented star who's career spans five decades. (http://jimmyguilford.com/) We didn't want the evening to end... so I **gasp** drank coffee. I enjoyed the company so much, it didn't matter what I was drinking!

This morning Judson caught up on some much needed sleep and I worked all morning on the cake/cupcakes. The twins didn't seem to notice as they had Mamak and Pa all to themselves!



The party began at four. We had a good time playing with Paula, Thad, Jaclyn, Mary Beth, Mama, Daddy Gayle, Mamak, Pa, Dawn, Danny, and Peggy. There were only three toddlers in the house, but with all those people crammed in there, it seemed more like12!

We at pizza before moving onto gifts. Veronica and Thomas showed off their skills, opening a few presents until... da da da da.... the digger was opened. (thanks Uncle Thad and Aunt Paula!) I guess that was all they needed as it occupied them for quite awhile!



Really, think they became overwhelmed with it all as after things slowed down they were ready to play with ALL their presents - and even open a few more.

Then... onto the cake. I brought cupcakes out before lighting the candle. Thomas was NOT about to wait for those formalities. he wanted it... NOW! So, we let him dig in while we got a second set of cupcakes out with the candles. They are naturals, I tell you. No practice whatsoever and they blew those candles right out. Thomas then returned to his precious cupcake. I think he ate 90% without hands or utensils. Veronica, on the other hand, used her spoon to savor every granule of sugar in the frosting. Blue smiles abounded!

Christmas Firsts and Fun

Today we went to cousin Julia's pre-school Christmas pageant. The twins were amazed. Kids, music, props... too much fun! Thomas was especially taken by it. He sat on the edge of his seat (Daddy's lap) and was the first to clap after every song, "Yay! Good song!" Both kids want to do that someday they tell me.

After a nap recovering from all the musical excitement, we put up the Christmas tree!!!

Thomas and Veronica were quite interested. When it was up they wanted everyone to come over and see it. They settled for calling all our relatives and telling them what we had done.

What's in the box?

Decorating

Playing with the Nutcracker ornament.

"Man jump!"

Enjoying the finished product.

"Daddy Stinky" and other Christmas Cheer

Today we spent a wonderful morning just hanging out as a family. While sitting on the couch together, I knew someone had a dirty diaper. So I asked, "Is somebody stinky?"

Veronica's normal response, "No."

Thomas's normal response, "Sissy."

Then Thomas pulled up the tail of Judson's shirt to check... "Daddy stink." It seemed definite the way he said it, but we were all questioning the stink, so I asked, "Thomas is that a comment or..." Before I could finish, Thomas interjected, "A question."

After a family nap, we all piled in the car for a trip to Clayton for the our friend's annual Christmas party. The twins were pretty excited that there would be a Christmas tree and lights in the house (as they hadn't seen that anywhere yet). When we arrived to all the glory of Christmas, they were sucked in... not needing the cuddling and protection they often do when they first arrive somewhere. They buddied up right away with Isaac (4) and Chloe (3)... and all the toys. We had a fabulous dinner including venison meatballs and the kids had their own table.

Presents were then opened and Thomas and Veronica acted like they'd done it for years! They got some really nice gifts... including lemons from Deanna. (See Food Fun, 12/1/08)

Isaac helping Veronica

Then, it was on to the annual game of bingo... a twist on the normal white elephant exchange. The men didn't participate, but the kids sure did!

Isaac and Chloe calling Bingo.

Thomas taking his turn.

Without knowing, time had slipped to 10:30!! None of the kids were cranky or anything... just party animals! So we jammied everyone up and took a final picture. Thomas fell asleep quickly in the car, but Veronica waited until we were home... at almost midnight! Party on!

I Want Jesus

Yesterday morning we went to visit my cousin Emily and her 3-year-old and 8-week-old. It was a fun time, of course, a great kid, new toys. They even got to finger paint. While they were painting, I got to hold the baby. Thomas even crawled up next to me to help hold him. The whole way home, both were talking about it... "Mommy hold baby."

They also have a very enthusiastic lab puppy. Thomas didn't quite find the balance between not enjoying Opie running off with his hat and the enjoyment of handing his hat over to Opie. Even today they were saying...

Veronica: "Opie dwop it."
Thomas: "O-E op it!"

This morning we went to our friend Kasey's for a play date. Now we have a new word in our vocabulary... "Bonkeroonies!" Thomas learned to read on his back after reading the Jesus Loves Me book with Kasey. Upon returning home, Thomas decided he wanted that book and would tell me, "I want Jesus."

This evening I forgot that it was a Market Day pick-up. They called me while the kids were in the high chairs to remind me. Fortunately, Dodie was able to come over to cover for me. When I returned, the twins were laughing hysterically. Dodie had been telling them stories about her dog, Reilly, and they found it hilarious.

Even when we left for our evening plans, they continued to ask, "Where Dodie?" and "Dodie go?" Dodie had a sinus infection and so did her husband. "Dodie went to the doctor."

That brought a whirlwind of questions. "Dodie K? Don K? Reilly K? Daddy K? Mommy K? Thomas K? Veronica K?"

We went to pick Daddy up for a work break to see an art exhibit. As we got closer to the State House, I quizzed them on where Daddy works... "Ace ouse!" However when we got parked next to it and were waiting, Thomas decided that Daddy worked at Church....

Where does Daddy work?

The "Ace Ouse" or "Church"

Tickle Ball

Today was full of fun activities. As the twins have been telling me that they are riding on a train when they are walking, I decided to show them how to set up some chairs to ride on a train. This was amazing to them. "All aboard!" I would shout. This would bring them up one at a time from their seats to come and put their face in mine and smile. Then we would go back to the train cars and pick a destination.

"All aboard!"

Chillin' on the train.

As Judson was working, we took a bath without him. He must have been on Veronica's mind though because she drew a picture of him on the tub. She told me "Daddy." and proceeded to put eyes on her figure.

"Daddy": Bathtime art by Veronica

After the bath, Thomas felt re-energized. He grabbed a ball, and a "helmet" and decided to play "tickle ball." (football)

Thomas's "helmet."

Food Fun

It was quite the dining out experience today.

For lunch we went to Blimpies with our friends. It was a little later lunch as both families had obligations in the morning. Robert, Thomas and Veronica did pretty well through lunch. Robert even shared his meatball sandwich... which Thomas found delicious and hysterical. "MEATBALLS!" Thomas would scream and crack up the two other toddlers. There would be a returned "MEATBALLS!" from his friend and then a lot of running around the restaurant. No wonder they fell asleep on the way home.

For dinner, we met our friend Deanna at Houlihan's to use a coupon. They immediately brought the twins some carrot sticks and ranch dip. The twins were much more interested in the lemons they brought for our water. Between the two of them it was likely that two whole lemons were eaten. Veronica even found it tasty to dip them in the ranch dressing. The main course of the meal was smooth (other than ranch hands being dipped in my water). The twins' dinner came with "ouce keem" (ice cream) for dessert. So, of course, Deanna and I had to order the clove doughnut holes with Kahlua and Baileys sauce to dip them in. While we were enjoying the doughnuts, Veronica was patiently trying to eat the hard ice cream with her spoon. This didn't go as fast as Thomas, who found it easier to eat with his hands. He even passed Veronica a few bites!

Another fun day.

All Kinds of Companions

Whew- It's already been a fun family "weekend" with lots of relatives and great things to do. Can it get any better? Of course! Our families are always up for more fun.

Thad and Paula invited us to Cincinnati in the evening to watch the recording of Prairie Home Companion at the Music Hall. Mamak and Pa were gracious enough to watch the kiddos so Judson and I could take our maiden voyage to IKEA as well that day. Oh, my! We had a great time at IKEA. So many wonderful things... for us and the kids! (and very affordable!)

We then finally saw Thad and Paula's "new" place. Lots of character (the apartment and the company!) Thad and Paula took us to a local pizzeria and we had a delicious dinner. Then off to the beautiful, historic (like most of Cinci) Music Hall. I couldn't quit smiling through the whole show...

Garrison Keillor (right) in the Cincinnati taping of

A Prairie Home Companion. Musical guests were Andra

Suchy, Jake Speed and the Freddies, and The Boys of the Lough.

Then MORE fun, off to a neighborhood pub to have more quality time with the Cinci Strucks. After a cozy evening on what I like to call "the sleep number bed of air mattresses," we had a great breakfast and got to try Goetta at Echos. Paula was then off to work while Thad, Judson and I toured a local children's bookstore and toy store. Don't worry - we were able to practice restraint... we actually came out of ONE of the stores empty-handed.

Upon returning to the NV Struck abode, we found there had been a lot of fun made there, too! They went to church where Thomas was certain to point out he "want other church." (He misses Fr. Bob!) But, the service was redeemed when Thomas heard I Have Loved You. He did not hold back on the applause and commentary from the front row... "I like that song." Apparently some around him agreed.

Pa did not hesitate to teach them about football [fopo] while we were out. Thomas caught on to the tackling quickly. He would run through the house and through himself on the ground, "TICKLE!" With the opportunity to watch more of the glorious sporting event, Veronica learned that she needed to be on top of Thomas when he did this.

The ride home was a little hairy as neither found a nap important that day. However, with a promise to visit "Elmo's House" [Mike's Car Wash], some patience was found.

A-cause

Despite the extremely late Thanksgiving bedtime and all the tryptophan, Veronica and Thomas were ready to pounce on Pa & Mamak in the morning. After some more playtime with the Struck grandparents, Mamak, the twins and I headed to Seymour. We had a great visit with Julie and her clan. All four kids played well together with Jeff's gorgeous Marbleworks creation. I headed out early to watch Twilight with Aunt Peggy. Mamak said that as they were leaving Vince looked up at Thomas and said, "I am so glad you came. You are the best boy, Thomas." Vince truly has a sweet disposition! (and he's smart!)

Apparently the twins did not have a nap in their plans, so when I returned to the Struck Ranch after the movie I did not know what to expect. Judson and I loaded the car with the twins and headed back for another visit with the Kring grandparents. We had such a great time in Madison on Thanksgiving that we wanted to extend it. We picked up a fish meal and shared it. Veronica and Thomas went back to work on exploring the house, but were a little worn out (cranky). So, we packed up and headed back to our beds in North Vernon.

The drive was fabulous because it was the first glance at Christmas lights the kids had. We took turns pointing out the lights and talking about Jesus's birthday. Thomas had a keen eye for spotting "A-cause." [Santa Claus] He even let me sing Christmas songs with the radio. (This is a feat as it's fine to sing a Capella, but don't interrupt the radio!)

Turkey Talk

Our first Thanksgiving feast of the holiday was had at Mama and Daddy Gayle's home. Aunt Nana and Uncle Dave put together a delicious feast!! When the meal was over, the twins sat on Aunt Nana's lap to investigate the leftovers while Daddy & Mama were deep in conversation.







Veronica really loved the "strawberries." [cranberries] She had multiple helpings during the meal. Afterward, she sat on Aunt Nana's lap and let her face hover over the bowl... inhaling and viewing, viewing and inhaling. It seemed so appealing I thought I should give it a try, but I didn't think she'd share.

Thomas, on the other hand, was interested in trying "strawberries," but was quick to notice that they were not strawberries when they hit his tongue. He preferred the Jello salad. He really got into the whole holiday craze, too -- He asked Uncle Dave for "piece of turkey" for almost three hours solid.






After Thomas finished the Kring turkey, we had no option but to go find more at Mak's house. It's like the sermon on the mount there... a tiny 3 bedroom house somehow fits 50 people and their potluck surprises year after year. I think Veronica and Thomas had a good time their as well because I never heard a word from them! The after-party was great too. Thomas and Dawn collaborated with their artistic skills while Veronica helped Mamak give Danny a "back" rub.