Adventures in Pinkdom

Sunday in the Park

2010-04-18T14:28:00.000-07:00

If there has ever been a perfect spring day . . . today was it.

So after church, we skipped over to the park.

Charlotte explores.

Audrey inspects.

Ava builds sand castles.

Miss dickens

Miss mischief

Playing together.

That spring sunshine will do you in.

Milano

2010-04-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

The magnificent Duomo in Milan. Our last stop in Italy.

We managed to find a ward in Milan, so we went to sacrament meeting, and then to the Duomo. (I really enjoyed singing Easter hymns in Italian). We got lost trying to find the church with The Last Supper, and ended up eating lunch at another church that was having a fundraiser . . . it was fun 'crashing' this Italian parish, eating homemade lasagna and risotto with the locals.

Audrey tests the bed at the Westin in Milano . . . what a beautiful, classy hotel (and the only hotel we had in Italy that provided washcloths--not even the Hilton in Venice had them). Schatzi has mastered the art of researching online to find out the exact hotel hotwire will give you in its 4/5 star category . . . he's scored some ridiculously cheap accommodation this trip.

The girls love hotels . . . all the free pens and stationary, multiple phones, t.v.s . . . it's the perfect play place and they waste no time setting up their offices. Daddy brought us some fabulous take out including pasta fagiole that was "just like Nana Doc's". Charlotte loved it!

One last gelato for the road. On the way to the airport, we had to stop at one of Schatzi's approved artigianale gelato shops. The nerve-wracking race to the airport afterward was totally worth it. Oh Italy, we're missing you already!

Venezia - Venice

2010-04-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

Venice! We really loved our two days exploring this amazing city on the water.

Venetian "streets", full of water taxis, water buses, gondolas, etc.

Being goofy.

Daddy's romantic gondola ride.

St. Mark's square

The view from the bell tower (campanile) at Piazza San Marco.

It finally happened . . . a bad meal in Italy. We knew it was coming in Venice, which is notorious for tourist-trap food. Photo compliments of Ava.

Charlotte watches intently as mommy adopts local custom and talks with her hands.

Detail of the Doge's Palace.

Audrey's reaction when asked to step away from the water. I was relieved to learn that the canals are quite shallow, so I was all set to jump in feet first should occasion arise.

And Venetian masks for souvenirs (Audrey's is purple, mine is blue, and a little baby one for Charlotte, too).

Soave and Padua

2010-04-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

After Lake Como, we headed east towards Padua and spotted Castello di Scaligero on a little hilltop and just had to stop. (Besides, it was time for a gelato break anyway.)

After storming the castle, the muskateers had their gelato while mommy did a tv interview with the Armed Forces Network that was there in Soave doing a series on travel in the region (so random!)

On the outskirts of Padua, we stopped for dinner at a restaurant housed in a former terracotta tile factory. Ava rejoices as she realizes "Every night is Friday pizza night in Italy!" (We usually have pizza Fridays in Bucharest.)

Pure enjoyment.

Luckily, we didn't get kicked out of our hotel in Padua due to Audrey's over-tired screaming-before-crashing-to-sleep fit. When the manager called, I offered to leave, but he was very good about it, and spoke with Audrey on the phone at which point she realized the gravity of the situation, promised not to scream in the hotel, and went peacefully to sleep. The next morning, Audrey apologized to the manager in person and I think she's a changed woman--that little brush with the hotel "police" really impressed her. After checking out of the hotel, we checked out Padua and the famed Scrovegni Chapel with its colorful frescoes by the Italian master Giotto.

"Touch me not"

Schatzi has quickly become a gelato connoiseur, seeking out gelaterias that are "artigianale" or artisanal/housemade. The one in Padua was superb!

Lago Di Como

2010-04-07T14:22:00.000-07:00

We spent the past two days exploring around beautiful Lake Como. I've always wanted to visit the Italian lake district--at last! It had rained the night before we arrived, dusting the mountain caps with snow--picture perfect!

Flawless beauty.

The town of Varenna.

Staying at the Hotel Olivedo was like a trip back in time . . . not much has changed in this place.

A room with a view.

Red sauce heaven.

Self-portrait in the gardens of Villa del Balbianello

Playing on the shore.

There's something really lovely with how an Italian villa ages . . . somehow there's beauty in that decay.

Ava seriously studies the menu: will it be a panino or pasta with red sauce?

Audrey discovered her favorite gelato combination: chocolate and pistachio. Ava prefers fior di latte and strawberry or coconut. I have a hard time resisting the lemon paired with strawberry or coconut.

In the gardens of the lovely hotel Villa D'este in the town of Cernobbio.

Daddy-daughter stroll along the promenade in the town of Bellagio.

Bergamo

2010-04-05T13:29:00.000-07:00

Our first stop in our Italian adventure: Bergamo. We spent Easter Monday exploring the citta alta, which was packed with like-minded Italians doing the same (today's a major holiday). The old city is perched atop a hill, and we rode the funicular train to get to the top.

Italy is just so darn tasty . . . we're trying hard not to gorge ourselves, but it's difficult, even for the girls. Ava ate so much pizza last night, she complained that her tummy hurt.

I mean, look at what we're up against. The line was out the door for this place. We enjoyed our take-out in the main piazza.

And then of course, we had our gelato.

Naturally, we'd need a snack later, so we bought a delicious polenta e osei (polenta and bird) cake--a Bergamo specialty. Not actually made from polenta, just made to look like it, with little molded marzipan birdies atop. The center of the cake is a creamy hazelnut concoction. We loved it! We'll have to track down a recipe.

Bergamo rooftops

Ava insisted on her photo with the lion.

We took an elevator ride up the tower to gain this nice perspective.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T04:21:00.000-07:00

Our Easter started off in Bucharest and ended up in Italy! Here the girls enjoy their baskets at home in the morning. He is risen!

Later in the morning we went for a walk through Herastrau park (no church today because of General Conference).

We enjoyed the beautiful sunshine, spring flowers, and Easter decorations in the park. Ava enjoyed the slide.

Later that afternoon, we hopped on the plane to Italy. The fans took care of Rockstar during the entire flight. Give me a plane full of Romanians any day!

She borrowed their sunglasses.

Easter dinner was a little different this year . . . We ate at Ristorante Da Franco in Bergamo, a darling ancient city on a hill, about 40 km from Milan. I chose the house-made ravioli alla Bergamasca, with its regional sauce involving butter, sage and bacon . . . delicious. No, we didn't have that chocolate cake for dessert; we opted for some heavenly gelato (so good, that I sent Schatz out to get a second round after we got the girls to bed in the hotel!) La vita e bella!

Pelisor

2010-04-03T04:22:00.000-07:00

We headed up to Sinaia today hoping for some snow to take Ava skiing, but it had all melted on the lower hills and we didn't have time to drive further into Poiana Brasov. So instead, we visited the sweet little Pelisor castle. Charlotte was a dickens during the tour, running off everywhere, but capturing the hearts of the tour guides and guests with her impish grin.

Ava enjoys her schnitzel at Cabana Schiori for lunch.

Audrey couldn't wait for her chicken soup.

Strawberries! A woman was selling them on the grounds of the castle in these cute little baskets.

London & Love Never Dies

2010-03-31T11:52:00.000-07:00

That's right! I escaped to London for 24 hours! Schatzi was already in the UK on business and planned a nice day out for Mommy, including tickets to the musical, Love Never Dies, the sequel to Phantom. What about the girls? Oh, don't worry, the girls were well looked after in Bucharest by a friend from church.

While Schatzi was in the office, I hit Oxford Street for some civilized shopping.

Tasty cupcakes at Lola's in Selfridges department store (which used to be the largest department store in London; now the honor belongs to Harrods.)

Of course, I spent a significant amount of time daydreaming here, primarily on the 4th floor among the heirloom quality children's wear. There was at least a 1/4 acre devoted to darling dresses!

Hamley's is the London equivalent of FAO Schwartz . . . toys, toys, toys. I found a few little souvenirs for the girls.

More lovely shops . . . this one close to the Ritz.

Somehow, I even managed to squeeze in some house-hunting and found the perfect little place for us in the country . . . if only it were pink.

Cheery window boxes everywhere!

My stop on the tube.

Practicing "Look right".

Lover Never Dies . . . I didn't even know that a sequel was in the works . . . pitiful considering it takes both of my hands to count the times I've seen Phantom. But my ever-faithful Schatzi keeps his eye out for me and was anxious to take me to see the show (which doesn't open on Broadway until 2011).

I kept eyeing the Haagen Daaz ice creams during intermission, but in an amazing act of restraint, I held out for dinner.

At the stage door after the show with Sierra Boggess, "Christine."

With Ramin Karimloo, "Phantom", who complimented me on Miss P (the dress, remember?). "Oh, thank you! It's vintage from Hong Kong and I just love the wiggle of the fringe" (at which point I swiveled to demonstrate). Without a beat, he replied "And I bet your friend likes the way it wiggles too", nodding at Schatz who was snapping our photo. As you see, I buttoned my sweater and recovered pretty well-- at least I wasn't blushing too badly for the photo.

Post theatre dinner at Rules, the oldest restaurant in London.

I was delighted to find this gas burning "coal" fireplace at Rules--just like at home in the pink house (well naturally, where do you think ours came from?) (You can spy the infamous fringe on my dress . . . if only you could hear it swish . . . I'll have to post video.)

The food was delicious--I can't wait to go back! A perfect meal for me: "Innes Farm Bosworth Goat's Cheese Fritters with Damson Relish, Bacon, Little Gem & Avocado Salad."

A sight for sore, bloodshot eyes . . . do I really get to sleep in?

As wonderful and civilized as London was . . . the best part is arriving home with your sweetheart and picking up your daughters from gradinita!

Party 'Til We Drop

2010-03-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

It was nonstop partying today as we spent the entire day making appearances at birthday parties. Here's some of the fun that caused these rockstars to crash in between gigs:

Charlotte took advantage of the open bar at the first party.

Audrey rocked it in the bouncer.

It just wouldn't be a Romanian party without pyrotechnics on the birthday cake.

A relaxed group shot at the second party (Charlotte was still sleeping in the car).

Ava's Photo Safari

2010-03-26T11:01:00.000-07:00

All the girls like to play with the camera. This morning, before Mommy and Daddy stirred, Ava went on a photo safari. And now, may I present: Through Ava's Lens.

(apartment building across the street)

(Audrey climbing in or out of Charlotte's crib)

(my favorite shot)

(Charlotte in her crib)

(kitchen cupboard)

(whimsical Dutch clock we picked up at the flea market)

Sister Love

2010-03-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

Charlotte loves her big sisters. She gets such a thrill when she holds hands with Ava. She'll take Ava's hand over mine. Tonight they looked so sweet walking home from tennis.

Catch and . . .

Smooch!

Chalk Art

2010-03-25T10:39:00.000-07:00

The girls enjoyed the spring sunshine on the terrace while creating some chalk art this afternoon. Ava recently learned to draw hearts. Notice how her characters are all thinking about love.

Ava's self portrait. I see hints of cubism.

Reminds me of someone else I know.

My expressive Boo.

Dinner al fresco

2010-03-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that just 10 days ago it was snowing, snowing, snowing. And now, where's winter? Gone, gone, gone. Today was so lovely, even warm--no jacket required. Everyone has moved outdoors, ourselves included. We ate dinner on the front patio, leftovers of Daddy's Sunday red sauce. Pofta buna! (bon appetit!)

Sinaia Snow

2010-03-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

As if we hadn't seen enough white powder in the past three months, we decided to drive an hour and a half up to Sinaia where there is still plenty of snow. The day was gorgeous . . . so "warm" we ate lunch on the terrace of Cabana Stana Regala in the bright sunshine. Even though we've been surrounded by snow this winter, it has been too cold to want to play in it . . . until today. It was simply the perfect fun in the sun and snow day.

Primavara

2010-03-19T14:36:00.000-07:00

I think it's safe to say: Spring is here! This week's sun has melted last week's snow and the whole world seems to be out celebrating. We're back at the park in the afternoon, enjoying the change. The girls were disappointed that there was no ice cream at the snack shop . . . ok, so it's not that warm yet!

"She loves the free, fresh wind in her hair, life without care . . ."

Inspired by the latest Barbie movie (Barbie & the Three Muskateers), the girls enjoy fencing with each other and the posts along the sidewalk. Toti pentru unul si unul pentru toti! (All for one and one for all!)

Audrey strikes the BEST fencing poses! She cracks me up.

Well, the park may not have had ice cream, but rest assured, our freezer is rarely without. Ava enjoys her reward while Audrey continues to work on her broccoli. . . only the lure of an ice cream cone (complete with whipped cream and sprinkles) can get these girls to eat their broccoli!

Home Sick

2010-03-12T10:49:00.000-08:00

Charlotte uses the popcorn bowl as a hat

We have all been battling these nasty colds the whole winter it seems, so finally, I let the girls stay home for a few days to "rest" (we were sort of ordered to stay home by the kindergarten teacher because of Ava's dramatic cough). So we watched movies as the snow (it's back!) fell down. After three days of being home sick, the girls were ready to get back to gradinita today.

Speaking of being home sick, we had been homesick for a good cake. So when Schatzi returned from his trip to San Francisco, he brought us back a delicious lemon flavored cake by Just Desserts (a Bay area baking company).

The girls swoop in on Daddy to savor the last piece of cake.

Ava tries to steal another bite.

Rats! Charlotte's just a little too short to grab it.

I'll wager this was the first time a Just Desserts cake was flown in to Bucharest. Well done, Daddy!

Romanian Mother's Day

2010-03-08T10:45:00.000-08:00

After church today we had a little "ladies only" refreshment in honor of Mother's Day, which is officially tomorrow. Nothing focuses the girls quite like a plate of sweets.

Charlotte receives assistance from her special friend Jetta. After church Jetta showed us photos from the fire that destroyed her home when she was just 12 years old back in 1980. Her baby sister who was four at the time died in the accident. Jetta loves the girls as they remind her of her little sister Jordana. Jetta is always thanking us that she can be with the girls, but we're the ones who are thankful for all her help!

Ava was thrilled with the strawberry covered sponge cake that the other American family brought. (Her dress is darling--thanks Nana!)

Lu's First Movie & Haircut

2010-03-06T10:44:00.000-08:00

Yet another fun filled Saturday. First we took in the latest Chipmunk movie. Kids get in free (now you're speaking Daddy's language). It was Lu's first trip to the movies where she actually watched some. When we first came to Bucharest, the big girls randomly started calling Charlotte "Baby Lu". Then we found out the Romanian word for baby girl is "bebelusa", so the nickname has stuck.

After the movie, it was on to Kidi Coaf Club, for Charlotte's coiffure as Daddy was tired of the hair in her eyes.

Lifestyles of the spoiled rotten.

In the evening, we headed over to church for the mother's day activity. (Mother's day is celebrated March 8 here). Nothing like sugar cookies at 6pm to make a good dinner. With Daddy's assistance, Ava recited a little poem about mothers. I can't get the video to post, so you'll just have to imagine her Romanian accented English.

Miss P

2010-03-04T10:41:00.000-08:00

Schatzi and I went out to dinner tonight in belated celebration of Valentine's and his birthday (which happened while he was back in the US). We checked out Thai Moods, which is allegedly the best Thai food in the region, but that's not saying much. Now don't get me wrong, it wasn't bad; we're just spoiled San Franciscan food snobs!

Well, if dinner disappointed a little, my dress certainly did not: Meet "Miss P"

"What, this old thing? Why I only wear this when I don't care how I look!"

Allow me to drool a bit more over this dress. You get a better idea of the SPARKLE from this photo, which still does not do it justice. Miss P is a vintage 1950s wool knit gown, entirely covered with sequins and beads all sewn by hand. I came across her on ebay, just randomly, and fell in love. Just before Schatz left for the US, I sighed about how I was obsessed with this dress on ebay and he brilliantly mentioned that he wanted to get me something for Valentine's . . . now why hadn't I thought of that?

I was so giddy when I put it on . . . and you should hear how the beaded fringe swishes when I walk! It's really delightful for me to be able to wear a dress (my time in dresses has been cut short in recent years due to pregnancies/nursing--worthy causes, though). A beautiful vintage dress is my "thing", and I feel honored to add this one to my collection. Dankeschoen Schatz!

We hoped to go dancing after dinner and headed over to Hard Rock Cafe because they had advertised a party "La Vie En Rose": an evening of French food, songs and dancing. Regretably they covered the dance floor with additional tables and chairs. So much for the dancing. I consoled myself with a brownie sundae, and we did enjoy the live chanteuse accompanied by the accordion.

Martie (March)

2010-03-01T10:39:00.000-08:00

"Spring is here, there's no mistaking, robins building nests from coast to coast"

The snow continues to melt as the sun works its magic. Right on cue, the snowdrops appeared on March 1, announcing the Romanian holiday of martisor, basically an homage to females and the anticipated arrival of spring. As the tradition goes, the boys give the girls little charms which are worn like a brooch during the first week of March. Read all about it here.

The girls were very excited to show me all the little martisor that they received from the boys at gradinita. "Mommy, do you have an empty jewelry box that I can put mine in?"

Schatzi's colleagues told him he had better get his wife flowers for martisor. Nice work. Stargazers, oh I love a good lily, and these were huge and gorgeous.

I couldn't resist these little flower fairies: one for each of the girls. I picked them up over the weekend at a festival at the country museum. There are little festivals and street vendors everywhere selling the martisor.

We also celebrated with some charming traditional gingerbread type cookies.

After a winter here, spring takes on new meaning. Our neighbor exultantly airs out their basement dwelling with beautiful tulips. New life is in the air.

Happy spring! O primavera fericita!

Restaurant Satya

2010-02-27T10:28:00.000-08:00

With Schatzi back, we'll continue on our culinary tour of Bucharest. Today we took the girls to Satya, a vegetarian restuarant located in a lovely restored villa. The food was tasty (lots of avocado), very filling (all those whole grains, you know), and it felt good to eat, too (no guilty conscience).

Upstairs the villa has a reading room, where you can meditate, or as the girls did, run around and jump in the pillows and bean bags. So our time in the reading room was short.

The girls also enjoyed taking the little quotes from the bowl out by the elephant statute and incense sticks in the foyer. Audrey brought me this wise saying from Buddha: Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth. When I asked her where she got it, she replied: "From the elephant, mommy."

Piano Lessons

2010-02-26T10:25:00.000-08:00

Ava had her first piano lesson today at gradinita. I can't but help she'll love it, but, no pressure. Unlike her other classes, her piano instruction is in Romanian, which she is picking up very well. She puts together little sentences now, such as the other day when we were leaving gradinita, she said to a classmate, "Uite, pot deschide usa." (Look, I can open the door). It's so fun to watch the girls learning and growing.

In summary, Ava's extra-curriculars are: tennis, karate, modern dance, singing with guitar accompaniment, French, German and now, piano. Phew! And we'll be adding swim lessons soon, too.

Sometimes it just hits me, and this is one of those times: Isn't it random that we wound up in Bucharest, Romania?

Welcome Home

2010-02-25T10:27:00.000-08:00

Yeah! Daddy's home! The girls were at gradinita late today for a smashing birthday party (the second one this week), when lo and behold, guess who showed up at the end.

The puppet show at the birthday party was all about eating fruits and vegetables. Immediately following, they brought out the cake, cookies and juice.

Charlotte didn't notice the incongruency.

Reunited.

Daddy, I was a good girl while you were gone.

We've been so good Daddy, what did you bring us?

Surveying the loot. The girls were so excited with their Christmas presents and goodies that Daddy brought back. Multumim! (Thanks!)

Meltdown of the Century

2010-02-20T22:27:00.000-08:00

I had a very nice Saturday afternoon planned for the girls: lunch at McDonald's to be followed by playtime at the park (finally, sunshine!) and then the new show at the circus. Well, en route to McDonald's, Audrey decided she had different plans. As I parked the car, Audrey announced "I don't want to go to McDonald's. I'm tired. I just want to stay in the car and sleep." Yeah, right. I tried coaxing her out of the notion but she would have none of it, all the while Ava is whining about how HUNGRY she is, and can't we just go inside. Finally, I just had to wrestle Audrey out of the car and carry her, screaming, into McDonald's.

I try to get in line to order, but Audrey is trying to run out the door and as I grab her, she flails her body to get loose, manages to kick off her rain boots and prostrate herself right smack in front of the door, blocking the patrons who are ready to leave. Meanwhile, Charlotte is having the time of her life as she heads over to climb the staircase (how many McDonald's have staircases?), and Ava continues her cries for food.

Luckily, there are always lots of helpful folks who come to tend my children when I obviously cannot. "De ce plungi?" (Why are you crying?) Although the question is addressed to Audrey, the questioner is usually looking at me. (If I knew and could fix it, would she be crying?)

I know that it is just a matter of time and this storm will blow over. So I let the Romanians try and figure her out while I grab Charlotte and place the order. A group of 20-somethings interrupted their lunch to snap photos of Audrey on the floor. Two of the young men even came over to our table once we were seated to check on Audrey.

But the crowning moment was when the food was ready and the helpful employee carrying our tray also decided that she needed to hold Charlotte's hand (no one can resist Rockstar) and . . . you guessed it . . . dumped the tray with the drinks spilling all over the floor. Ava went into hysterics, fearing that she wouldn't get another apple juice (because when she spills at home she often doesn't). Somehow, I got them all seated in the back corner booth, where Audrey continued to cry, but with less force, and I consoled Ava that she would get a replacement juice.

After Ava, Charlotte and I finished eating, Audrey decided she really did want a happy meal after all. See, storm over. We almost had a relapse though when we tried to order dessert and there was no chocolate soft serve. Out came Audrey's bottom lip and she started to stamp off, but I pointed out the chocolate muffins and she graciously decided that was a suitable alternative.

Daddy, you missed a good one.

Charlotte enjoying her lunch.

At the park after McDonald's. The girls made a friend. I pulled them away from playing to walk over to the circus only to be informed by the box office attendants that the show wasn't starting for another month! (That would have been a really useful piece of information on the posters, huh?)

Progress Report

2010-02-18T04:40:00.000-08:00

Well, we're surviving without Daddy. Charlotte has discovered photography. Here she's captured the market stand. The patio is just about clear of snow--the sun has been slowly melting it away.

I've watched a little bit of the olympics . . . this shot of the coffee table leg and tv is Charlotte's creative photography.

The girls have been staying 'til 6pm at gradinita and taking naps there in the afternoon. Which translates into not wanting to go to bed and running around wild. One night they snuck out of their room and actually fell asleep on the hardwood floor in the hallway.

Self portrait.

Charlotte loves cleaning day. Her preferred scrubber is the toilet bowl brush--she uses it on everything.

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T04:16:00.000-08:00

Love you Dah-DeEE! (Romanian inflection in "daddy")

I love you Mr. Daddy

Thanks for the roses Schatz. Like the vases?

The girls and I headed out to church this morning and Daddy headed for the airport. Off to San Francisco for a business trip. The girls have promised to be on good behavior in hopes of receiving some nice surprises when Daddy gets back. We'll miss you Daddy!

Hansel & Gretel

2010-02-13T14:37:00.000-08:00

Today was our last day with Daddy before his trip to the US. Preparing the list of everything we want him to bring back got us thinking about things we miss . . . so Daddy treated the girls to breakfast at the Marriott hotel where they relished their pancakes with maple syrup.

After stuffing their little bellies, we took them to the opera to see Hansel and Gretel. Sung in Romanian with supertitles, I translated what I could, but the girls are familiar with the story so they knew what was going on in general and enjoyed the show. Charlotte was more interested in walking up and down the aisle or climbing the stairs at the exit.

After the opera, we headed over to the other meetinghouse for the party celebrating the 20 year anniversary of the church in Romania. Good times . . . traditional Romanian singing, and dancing in the round, followed by dinner with, yes, fresh lemonade. La multi ani!

Under Water

2010-02-12T00:21:00.000-08:00

The headline in the paper ran "Bucharest Streets Under Water". Truer words were never spoken. As we warmed above the freezing point, it rained two nights ago, melting snow and creating a huge, slushy mess. Seriously, we could have rowed a dingy over to gradinita. The girls pants were sopping wet when we got to school. After walking to tennis, I had to take Audrey's pants off and dry them over the warm air being pumped into the tennis court enclosure/tent. So, last night I went to the mall and purchased rain boots for the girls. We're going to need them.

Nothing cuter than Charlotte in her tiny rain boots

Pics from a past flood in the city:

Snow Shots

2010-02-10T15:20:00.000-08:00

Sunshine! Ah, yes, the sun came out today. I did mention that it snows in Bucharest, right? Lest we forget our glorious winter, here are a few shots of the snow. . . before it melts.

Fixer in the snow

Walking home from gradinita

Our street

Snowball maker

Snowball target

Do you see the impression the car left?

This was last Sunday driving to church. What a difference a little sun makes!

Ava Ski Video

2010-02-10T13:16:00.000-08:00

A few reels of Ava in the powder at ski camp last week. Enjoy.

(The last video showcases Ava's Romanian yodeling.)

Tabara Postavaru (Ski Camp)

2010-02-09T11:53:00.000-08:00

Ava has returned triumphant from her week-long ski camp at Poiana Brasov. Here's some of what we, the less fortunate ones who had to stay home, missed out on:

Ski buddies: Kaspar, Teodora and Ava

Mrs. Pic kept us apprised of Ava's doings via online chats once the kiddies were in bed: One day she described Ava as "eating like a wolf", the next day it was "like a bear."

Ski school

Ava crashed into Kaspar during one of her "runs."

Morning drills

Down, but not out

Relaxing (aka watching tv) in the "mess hall"

As if skiing by day weren't enough, check out the kiddie disco that rocked the cabin by night.

I just had to post another. We can't stop smiling watching 5 -7 year olds rock out.

In Memoriam

2010-02-07T11:06:00.000-08:00

Last week at church, I noticed several of the members crying, and wondered what was wrong, but didn't get a chance to ask until after church. It was then that we learned that two of our Elders serving in the city of Timisoara died in their apartment from natural gas asphyxiation. Such news is so shocking, it stuns and numbs you as you try to make sense of and process what you've just heard. Immediately, you think of their families, and you pray that Heavenly Father will comfort them as only He can.

Today during fast and testimony meeting, Sister Lundberg, the wife of the mission president, shared some of her impressions from the past week and her experience as she has been in regular communication with the families. Check out Sister Lundberg's blog (and don't miss her link to Romania Mission Miracles.) It was comforting to hear from her that the families of these special Elders have expressed their faith and well-being in the gospel of Jesus Christ that will give them the opportunity to reunite with their sons eternally.

A neighbor who had heard the sad news, expressed her condolences to Sister Lundberg and remarked that she didn't know how Sister Lundberg could deal with such seeming tragedy. Sister Lundberg's response was that she didn't know how her neighbor does it--how do people face mortality with its trials and hardships without the gospel?

Indeed.

This tribute is on the bulletin board in the foyer and the flag in front of the church has been at half mast.

A Week Without Ava or the Adventures of Audrey & Charlotte

2010-02-06T14:36:00.000-08:00

Ava came home today from a week long ski camp. Boy, was I glad to see that girl. We all were. While Ava was learning to ski, Audrey was home (no school) with mommy and Charlotte. We kept busy, as you can see:

Goodbye Ava, hello chocolate: Audrey started and ended her week with chocolate macaroons

Charlotte models Audrey's ski helmet

Of course, we spent time at the mall (Charlotte's enjoying the chocolate fountain sample)

Audrey enjoyed being the exclusive big sister: Charlotte sits on her lap while watching a video

Audrey teaches Charlotte more tricks (while eating chocolate sundaes)

Charlotte, a quick student

Tubtime, just the two of them

Playing at Kidi Coaf Club while mommy got her hair cut

Voice Lessons

2010-02-05T03:32:00.000-08:00

Rockstar wrinkles her nose approvingly of my singing (or for the cookie).

Yippee! I finally got around to scheduling a voice lesson with a local opera singer, Egle Chisiu, and it was wonderful. She's from Lithuania originally and met her Romanian husband while they were both studying voice in Italy. He sings with the opera here in Bucharest. I'm so excited to get some professional instruction . . . now I just have to make time to practice. See Egle and her husband singing here. According to Egle, Romanian singers are well known in the world's opera stages, as they receive excellent training here and then go abroad for performing opportunities (after all, there's only one major opera house in the country).

Raise those soft palates girls. (No, they're not really practicing vocal technique, just goofing around with photo booth.)

Look Who's Walking

2010-02-04T13:03:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday I was playing the piano in Primary and trying to keep Charlotte from being too much of a distraction. I needed to play a song, so I rolled a little toy car away from her, and to my utter amazement she stood up and waddled six or seven perfect little steps over to it. Charlotte has not been overly interested in walking, preferring her signature scoot, but apparently nothing motivates like a toy. It was like she divulged a great secret . . . well, word is out now, walk, baby walk!

Soare cu Dienti

2010-01-28T11:03:00.000-08:00

The Romanians have the perfect saying to describe the deceptively warm looking sunshine that we had today: Sun with teeth. Big, sharp teeth. We hit -17 Celsius this week (and that was during the day). That's about 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Brrr.

The girls love the icicles.

Today they were glittering in the sun.

"Om de zapada" on the terrace.

Indoor afternoons.

When Charlotte sees a camera, this is how she reacts.

Sorry the video's so dark . . . this was before the sun made an appearance.

Corrupted

2010-01-25T14:03:00.000-08:00

Budding Picasso

Fun and games . . . it's all just fun and games

Charlotte's days of innocence are over. Last week we officially labeled her corrupted. She has figured out how to "write" and has a definite preference for walls over paper. She also prefers markers to pencil or crayon. Just like her sisters. Just what we were afraid of. But she's so cute when she's naughty and she knows it. She smiles wide and wags her finger to say "no, no, no" or "nu, nu, nu" if she's feeling Romanian. And most importantly, she has discovered the power of biting as self/toy defense. (Audrey has been the sole recipient of Charlotte's fangs . . .)

Audrey inspired us to read "Parenting the Strong-Willed Child" and we have started its five-week program to "successfully manage disruptive behavior" . . . as you can see, we'll have plenty of opportunities to practice.

In other news, Charlotte took her first step last week . . . and did three little steps in a row today!

Spargatorul de Nuci--The Nutcracker

2010-01-21T13:26:00.001-08:00

Back in December I had been so disappointed to find that the single performance of the Nutracker was offered at a time when we couldn't go. Happily, Schatzi checked the opera schedule again and found that a second performance was offered in January. So last night the entire family enjoyed the beautiful music and dancing of the Nutcracker at the Opera Nationala. A perfect end to the holidays.

Ticket prices range between $2 and $18. Talk about value! Granted, the production was not the spectacular and opulent show like the Nutcracker at the San Francisco Ballet, but it was also just a quarter of the price.

It was rush hour on the way to the opera which meant wall to wall people on the subway and in the station.

Ava snapped Daddy in the hall. The opera house was built in the 1950s and is quite pretty, but a little shabby . . . When we arrived, just as the show was starting, there were people in our seats, people sitting on the stairs, people in the aisles . . . this is all normal. So we sat close to our seats, but no one seems to mind and somehow it all works out.

Ava and Audrey made it through the whole show and enjoyed it. The only issue was getting Audrey to whisper her commentary to me. Thankfully, she got the hang of it. During the Arabian dance, Audrey noted the sequins on the harem costumes: "Look mommy, they have sparklies on their breasts. You want those? You should get some sparklies for your breasts." (pronounced breast-tez).

Audrey's Birthday Party

2010-01-21T12:38:00.000-08:00

Last Friday Audrey had her little class over to the apartment to celebrate her "la multi ani". She had made it very clear that none of the older children were to be invited, just the "grupa mica". She graciously made an exception for Ava.

Petru couldn't resist the frosting . . . that's right, enjoy that silky buttercream while you can get it. Lucky for us, our friend at the US embassy had given me two boxes of powdered sugar, so I recanted my vow not to make another cake in Romania and we savored the smooth frosting. (In case you forgot, the powdered sugar available here is grainy.)

Birthday girl.

We played traditional children's party games, like pin the tail on the donkey. (I painted "Pedro" the night before). Perhaps this was the only kids party in Bucharest without face painting . . . the children still managed to have a good time.

Audrey's sweet teacher, Mariana.

8 kids and two adults return one block to Kindergarten in this compact car . . . yeah, they do things like that here, but don't worry, this is one custom we are not going to adopt.

The aftermath.

The birthday dress. I am absolutely delighted with it. There is something extremely satisfying in creating a beautiful dress and then watching your little girl wear it. Ahhh.

Yes, that's 10 yards going around the final tier of the skirt! Let's just say I spent a few nights gathering material.

Aren't the silk roses luscious? (Did I mention I love this dress! It's hanging out in the dining room where I can stare at it.)

O happy day!

Mini Ski Camp

2010-01-21T06:10:00.000-08:00

While Daddy was in Istanbul, we went to the mountains January 6-9. The lodge we stay at, Cabana Postavaru, is very old (1800s) and well known in Romania. Getting there can be adventurous. When the gondola is not running, you might trek up the mountain on the Pisten-Bully, as the girls did.

Audrey at the wheel. Have mercy. No room for Charlotte and mommy, so we went up about an hour later with the lodge owner in his "tank", a Land Rover Defender. One of the scarier rides of my life thanks to the icy mountain path and lack of shocks. Once the Defender could take us no further, we were treated to a snowmobile run through the Romanian wild. In the dark, too. Don't worry, Charlotte didn't notice the bitter wind as she was sandwiched between the driver and me. Oh, if only I had a photo.

Ski school with friends from kindergarten.

Ava and ski instructor Paula.

Audrey went skiing with Paula too, but I don't have those photos yet (they're on a friend's camera.) I'll have to post an update when I get them. Both girls did great!

Romanian natural beauty as seen from the lodge.

Ava skiing. You'll hear her kindergarten teacher "Mrs. Pic" . . . at the end of the second clip she asks them to "stay there, I'll take a photo".

Istanbul

2010-01-20T00:11:00.000-08:00

We got back to Bucharest from Vienna on January 3 and by January 6 we were off again . . . Schatzi went to Istanbul and I went with the girls to Poiana Brasov for a mini ski camp. A trip to Istanbul is perfect to add to your Bucharest itinerary. . . it's just an hour flight from here and so very fascinating. So check your calendar and let us know when you're coming!

And now, Schatzi's adventures in Istanbul:

Land of mosques.

Inside Hagia Sophia.

The ubiquitous Scott Porter . . . this guy is everywhere.

Welcome to the Grand Bazaar . . . let's go shopping! Chad says you could spend two weeks just in the bazaar.

Turkish wares.

Turkish spice.

Turkish kebap.

Turkish bath.
This is just the changing area. . . see the the interior here with its heated marble slabs. (This bath was built in 1584!)

Turkish princesses. The slippers are adorable . . . I want a pair!

Of course, Turkish delight.

Aufwiedersehen Wien!

2010-01-19T14:17:00.000-08:00

After a perfectly wonderful holiday, we had to say adieu:

Goodbye friends! (That's Chad's first companion from his mission! We went to church and had family home evening together, shared several meals and even had a sleepover! Dankeschoen Helmut & Julia!)

Tchuess Haus der Musik!

See you in Istanbul Scott!

Later boyfriends!

Goodbye toy stores! (I think we hit just about every single one!)

Come see us in Buc, oh sweet stroller friendly elevators and escalators! (Chi Chi, one of Audrey's toy purchases rides the escalator in the subway station.)

Schnitzel Queen kisses it goodbye!

Please just one more for the road!

So long makeovers on the streets of Vienna.

'Til next time gingerbread houses.

Bye-bye hotels!

Ciao, Strassenbahn.

Auf Wiedersehen Schoenbrunn.

Ta ta your Highness!

I'm going to miss you Krapfen and Apfelstrudel!

Au revoir, chandeliers.

See you next time, Vienna.

Hello Romania!

Rockstar is back . . . just moments off the the train in Bucharest, the fans whisked Charlotte away. They literally took off her booties and kissed her feet. Bine ati venit!

New Year's Eve & Kaiserball 2009

2010-01-18T13:43:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve at the Rathaus in Vienna.

Special appearance from Alvin! Can you spot Audrey on Daddy's shoulders?

A random man with a Christmas tree strapped to his back.

Amazing architecture on that city hall.

After enjoying the festivities and grabbing a bite to eat at the Rathaus square, we headed to Helmut and Julia's apartment for the sleepover party. Their boys are 5 and 2 1/2, and the girls had such fun playing with them. Samuel told his mommy he thought Ava was "frech" (sassy) and asked her why are all the cute girls blond?

The dress hunt: Earlier in the week, I went shopping for a ball gown as I left all mine in San Francisco (you know I have a few that would have worked). The Kaiserball deserved a debut dress anyway. I had seen this one in the store window and went after Christmas to check it out . . . naturally, all of the other dresses were on sale but this one. With a price tag of 379 euros, I kept looking and scored my bargain ensemble: a 20 euro dress! paired with a modest bolero jacket and black gloves.

After the children were sleeping, we got ready for the ball. Here I am all blurry and mysterious.

As Mutti would say, she cleans up well.

To the palace!

At midnight, the bells of St. Stephens ring wildly and the band strikes up the Blue Danube waltz. Did you see the fireworks through the window on the left? They were bursting all over the city.

Whirly, swirly ballroom dripping with chandeliers. It seems I have always loved chandeliers . . . I think it all started with the beautiful chandelier in the Ventura stake center chapel that fascinated me during church as a little girl.

A glimpse of the small ballroom.

Herzlich willkommen! but not until Schatzi purchased his bow tie at the door . . . they wouldn't let him in without one!

We even danced the quadrille. Viel spass! It's so amusing dancing with strangers.

An entrance (and exit) with flair.

My hopes for future balls: the ultimate Daddy - daughter date. (Did you notice the beautiful red and white flowers? Austria's national colors.)

Happy New Year!

La Multi Ani Audrey!

2010-01-13T23:37:00.000-08:00

She's FINALLY three! It seems like Audrey has been two forever . . . or rather, she just seems wise beyond her years, so now she's catching up. Audrey spent her birthday morning opening presents in the hotel room.

The coveted cell phone . . . it's all she really wanted (I guess she's been missing the five or so toy phones she had to leave in San Francisco . . . now the count is up to three in Romania)

Note the balloons and streamers that mommy positioned while everyone was asleep so Audrey would wake up and know it was her day.

Then it was off to the Hofburg and the morning training session of the Lipizzaner stallions at the Spanische Hofreitschule. There we are outside the entrance to the palace grounds.

The arena is wunderschoen! Audrey sat in the front row with a stranger who kindly offered the spot on her lap! Audrey chatted animatedly about her birthday and was truly enjoying her day.

Lunch at Demel's (imperial chocolatier). Daddy and the girls enjoy the Viennese cafe culture. The other day Audrey asked to go eat at the place with the pumpkin soup. This is that place and the soup was excellent! (Sadly, a little too far from Bucharest to fulfill Audrey's request.)

Audrey selects her chocolates.

Steering clear of chocolate, Ava found a marshmallow mushroom (Glueckspilze are everywhere--they are a traditional symbol of good luck and fortune popular especially around New Year's.)

A Viennese beauty.

After lunch we hit the Christmas market at Schoenbrunn Palace.

We tried the apple cinnamon pretzel . . . and a Kaesebrotscheibe, and Schlumpfnudeln and . . . snacking at the Christmas markets is the best!

Warming up with hot cocoa.

Last call for ornaments.

Enjoying the Christmas carols played by the brass band.

Inside the children's museum where you can learn what it was like to grow up in the imperial household.

Audrey's five o'clock shadow is actually from the hot chocolate.

Happy Birthday Boo! (I think she had three or four pieces of Sacher torte during the trip.) We sang in English, German, and Romanian!

Christmas in Vienna

2010-01-11T14:38:00.001-08:00

Christmas day was slightly pathetic. Audrey threw up during the middle of the night (Christmas eve), followed by Ava Christmas day, then Chad had his problems which I won't detail. Charlotte seemed to have a little spit up, but not bad. So I was the sole healthy survivor.

The girls bounce back quickly . . . Audrey had the hardest time staying out of the giant gingerbread house in the hotel lobby. Santa found the girls stockings all the way in a hotel room in Vienna and the girls enjoyed playing with their goodies.

I'm mortified . . . yes, that's Christmas dinner at McDonald's! We had ordered room service for lunch, and this was the only place within walking distance from the hotel (we were not in the city center). Oh well. The girls certainly did not mind the happy meals. Daddy stayed back in the hotel room recuperating. So much for Christmas goose . . .

Ava inspects the carriage Christmas Eve.

Silver hooded sisters.

My favorite holdiay light: Those gorgeous chandeliers "am Graben" (on Graben street).

Heilige Abend

2010-01-07T09:34:00.000-08:00

Christmas eve at the famed Wiener Christkindlmarkt in front of the Rathaus (city hall).

Taking in the manger scene in front of city hall. Refreshing to see overt displays of Christendom everywhere!

Only two more days of age two!

A little train ride through the Rathaus garden.

Audrey chose a baby Jesus and Ava an angel from the selection of Italian nativities.

The beautiful Burgtheater across from the Rathaus.

Daddy navigates the tired girls through another Christmas market, this one in between the natural history museums.

Ava proudly display her five euro note she found in the subway elevator. LOVE stroller friendly public transit! Wien ist meine Stadt!

Mass at Stephansdom, tourists non-stop.

Lighting candles.

And before dinner at the Hofbrau, a delightful carriage ride.

The holiday lighting is amazing . . . chandeliers, snowflakes, streamers of lights dangling above the streets . . . such a magical mood.Views from the carriage.

Frohe Weihnachten!

Night Train to Vienna

2010-01-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

After agonizing over our travel options (plane, train, or car?), we decided to take the night train to Vienna.

We left the afternoon of December 23. Here's Charlotte that morning as photographed by Ava . . . that's me passed out behind her after the all nighter working across time zones to get our visa papers in order. (Thank you Celeste!) After all, it would be a pity to get stuck in Vienna.

The girls were excited about the dining car. I was relieved to be safely underway. After rushing to the train station and almost losing Audrey down a gigantic gap in the subway platform, we were ready to relax! (Really, I was sobbing through the metro station in gratitude for a strong grip and the unseen angels that helped me pull Audrey up when she stepped into thin air as we exited the subway.)

2 a.m. border crossing with accompanying passport control. And they were all sleeping so nicely . . .

Charlotte studies her passport. Might as well since we're all up.

We made it! 16 hours later we planted our feet in Vienna. Ready to hit the Christkindlmarkt.

(Alas, I'm having troubles uploading my photos . . . and tomorrow we are heading to 'ski camp' in the mountains; I'll have to continue the Vienna posts when I get back.)

We Had a Ball in Vienna!

2010-01-04T13:41:00.000-08:00

We got back from Vienna last night, so stay tuned for a bunch of posts regarding our imperial adventure. Today it was laundry, but wait 'til tomorrow when I tell you about New Year's Eve! By the Kaiser's order, I have to go to bed now. . . .

Ward Christmas Party

2009-12-23T01:27:00.000-08:00

Saturday night was the church Christmas party. Above you see the precious dancing Christmas kitties that were displayed during the carols. I doubt we'll ever witness such variety at a ward Christmas party again. When was the last time you heard Elvis' "Only Fools Rush In" performed right after "O Holy Night"? Well, the song does mention wise men ("wise men say, only fools rush in, but I can't help falling in love with you"). It was awesome.

Hold still girls!
After church on Sunday we went over to the Marriott hotel to snap a few photos.

It was naptime, poor Charlotte.

So we're taking the train to Vienna today . . . it will be another adventure. So it may be a while before I'm posting to the blog. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Show

2009-12-19T17:13:00.000-08:00

The English Kinder Christmas show was quite the extravaganza. Ava was an angel and said all her parts very well! In addition to the Christmas story, there were songs, dances and poems.

Audrey refused to say her part. We considered it a success that she simply was on the stage!

Pouting, after I told her no gift from Santa unless she recited her part.

Finally, Audrey recites her part. Nothing motivates like a toy!

The grand finale: a karate demonstration, of course.

Iarna Este Aici!

2009-12-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

A light dusting on our street.

Our snow covered terrace.

Bringing the girls home from school.

On the way to Kindergarten.

Winter is here! We had our first snowfall on Saturday and it's continued to snow this week. Snowplowing seems to only happen on the main streets, so all the little residential streets are covered with snow. Ava likes the snow. Audrey likes it as long as she doesn't touch it. On day four of the snowfall, Audrey remarked, "Mommy, it does not snow in San Francisco. I want to go back to San Francisco."

Open for Business!

2009-12-15T16:28:00.000-08:00

I'm in business . . . back in the saddle . . . good to go . . . . I'm pleased to announce that I'm sewing Audrey a dress for her birthday, as is my tradition. I borrowed a sewing machine from a very nice Swiss lady who responded to my email plea to the Bucharest Moms group (a network of expat moms here in the city). It's heartwarming, the kindness of strangers!

BitDefender Christmas Party

2009-12-14T16:02:00.000-08:00

Chad's company hosted a family party Monday evening. Audrey shows off her balloon art.

Mos Craciun arrived with individually wrapped and labeled gifts for the children. The Romanians have a lovely tradition requiring the children to recite a poem to receive their gift from Santa. Audrey recites her poem she learned in school: "When Santa comes to my house, I would like to peek. But I know he'll never come until I'm fast asleep."

Charlotte was thrilled with her toy from Santa.

Charlotte was not so thrilled sitting on Santa's lap.

Social dancing!

Could it be a party without face painting?

Audrey loved the buffet.

Talks and Callings

2009-12-13T06:07:00.000-08:00

Chad and I spoke in sacrament meeting. Unfortunately, the highlight of our talks was probably the flash going off as Ava photographed the pew. Or maybe Charlotte's pointing at Chad and repitition of "DaDa DADA DaDa" was more memorable. Well, we can't leave Audrey out . . . at least she waited until the end of Chad's talk before rushing the pulpit. Yes, Circus Heinrich was in full force. Seriously, we spoke on helping our families develop testimonies and drew from Elder Bednar's wonderful last conference address.

We now have official callings: Chad and I will be serving with the young men and primary, respectively.

Fabrica Spiridusilor

2009-12-12T05:42:00.000-08:00

Hotel Caro is hosting Santa's Elves' Workshop this month. We just had to check it out. The Romanians put together some very interesting combinations of activities: in addition to the Elves' Workshop, there were classes in CPR and other emergency preparedness presented by SMURD, the Romanian first response unit. We didn't see Santa's sleigh anywhere, but they had ambulances, police vehicles and even a helicopter!

The girls made a variety of crafts. Charlotte specializes in removing all the googley eyes.

Hard at work on her Christmas tree figurine.

Rudolph!

Audrey painted her Snow White a striking and festive red and green.

Photo Shoot

2009-12-11T04:16:00.000-08:00

It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas

2009-12-10T14:37:00.000-08:00

in Herastrau Park . . .

. . . in Kiseleff Park . . .

. . . at the dentist . . .

and at the apartment (that's our front terrace . . . we moved last week to the bigger apartment).

Karate Kimonos

2009-12-10T14:16:00.000-08:00

The kimonos finally arrived. Don't they look serious in their outfits?

La Multi Ani Charlotte!

2009-12-06T14:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday sweet baby Charlotte!
Her birthday dress is compliments of Mayoral, a very cute children's line from Spain. . . (I really need a sewing machine.)

Dr. Dana says: self-feeding exclusively!

Big girl loves all the fuss!

Baking here is no fun. The granulated and powdered sugars are much coarser here. Yes, even the "powdered" sugar has a slight grain to it. Ugh. So I did the best I could with what I had, but
I don't think I'll repeat the endeavor. Charlotte didn't seem to mind, though.

Mos Nicholae

2009-12-05T14:17:00.000-08:00

December 6 is St. Nicholas day when the children in Romania leave their clean boots out for St. Nicholas to fill with small surprises. This weekend we checked out the festival at the Romanian Country Museum and purchased some traditional crafts and treats.

Mos Nicolae catches Ava pouting . . . uh oh.

My kind of candy shop.

Mommy and her vintage linens.

Masks of characters from folklore stories.

"Gingerbread" cookies.

Charlotte can't wait.

Poiana Brasov

2009-12-02T13:23:00.002-08:00

For the long weekend leading up to National Day, we went with some friends from Kindergarten to the mountains of Poiana Brasov. Elena, the founder of the Kindergarten, has been coming here for years and was very excited to share it with us.

After taking the cable car up the mountain, we hiked in to Cabana Postavaru, the quaint cabin hotel and restaurant that was originally founded by Germans. Formerly, there had been a large German population in this area.

Cabana Postavaru has been expanded since the first cabin was built. The views are wonderful from the terraces.

Arriving at the cabin at sunset. It was cold!

Beautiful.

Ava and Antonia share dinner.

Some traditional tunes after dinner.

A dusting of snow in the morning.

Time for a cocoa break.

Mommy enjoys the dining room with its painted and carved woodwork.

Trying to get a shot of the three sisters.

Enoying the Christmas trees in the main square of Brasov on our way back to Bucharest.

National Day

2009-12-01T23:25:00.000-08:00

La multi ani Romania! Today was the big national holiday celebrating the unification of the states that form modern day Romania.

The parade through the arc de triumph featured various military units and vehicles. My favorite part was the firing of the cannons during the national anthem.

Later on we celebrated by making pie crust cookies with the leftover dough from Thanksgiving.

There is one thing I don't like about California (well, maybe only half-a-thing) and that is the trouble of buying dragees (those pretty, tiny, shiny balls for decorating cookies, etc.). So I went a little crazy when I saw them at the grocery store here and bought a bunch of packages back in September. Ava covered her Christmas tree cookie with a variety in sparkling pastel hues. It was a very satisfying moment.

Downtown

2009-11-30T13:12:00.000-08:00

A week ago Saturday, the big girls went downtown with Daddy.

After a pizza lunch, Ava ponders dessert.

Where's Audrey? She just plops down when she's had 'enough'.

"Things will be great when we're downtown . . ."

These boots were made for walkin'

We've heard that the manhole covers are sometimes stolen and sold as scrap metal. I think you could sell them as art.

Reunited

2009-11-27T12:18:00.000-08:00

On Monday we rendezvoused with Viki at the arc de triumpf, as she doesn't want to come to the apartment building. The plot thickens . . . apparently our other housekeeper, Elena, has been fired as well. (See the previous post, "Scandal.") The new woman, Petruta, is working "nonstop" as they say here. I'm hoping this will at least ease Viki's pain and hopefully we can convince her to visit us at the apartment.

Charlotte models her new jacket from Viki. It's a bit large, though (it could fit Ava!).

Viki teaches Charlotte to walk . . . she'll stand up on her own, but she's not taking steps by herself yet.

I have so many picture of leaves! I just can't get over the colors: Red, brown, gold, green . . .

Charlotte's chicken pox are much better now than earlier in the week when this video was shot.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T23:05:00.001-08:00

Our turkey and sides thanks to the Marriott hotel. Two of the teachers from kindergarten joined us for dinner.

Dueling pies: our Romanian guests preferred my version of pumpkin pie on the right. (Ava had three slices.) I used our precious can of pumpkin that we got from our friends that work at the US Embassy and I had to make evaporated milk, but it turned out ok. Charlotte fell asleep before we got to dessert . . . she'll have to try her first pumpkin pie the day after.

Dearest family and friends, we miss you! Hope everyone enjoyed the day wherever you were!

Primary Program

2009-11-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

A week and a half ago the Primary put on their sacrament meeting program and Ava said her part by heart in Romanian: "Familia mea creste cind zambim mult." (My family grows when we smile a lot.) My unofficial calling is primary accompanist, so I played the piano during the program. We offered a part to Audrey, but she didn't want to participate; however, she had Ava's part memorized as well!

Turkish Dinner at the Golden Falcon

2009-11-25T14:51:00.000-08:00

The Golden Falcon's golden grill.

Spicy meats over pink coals.

The result: Our kebabs.

The funniest part of dinner: after finishing our appetizers, the server came by with a dustbuster and vacuumed up the crumbs. Efficient, but noisy.

The Bloc

2009-11-24T14:38:00.000-08:00

One of the major architectural contributions of Communism in Bucharest is the aptly named 'bloc' apartment complex. There are miles and miles of them. Today I visited one for the first time. The bathroom faucet water had a distinct brown tinge . . . I guess the pipes need updating. Today I am grateful not just for running water, but relatively clean running water. (Our water may not be brown, but we've still been advised not to drink it.)

Scandal

2009-11-21T14:50:00.000-08:00

When I pick up the girls from gradinita in the afternoon, Ava always wants to know which housekeeper is on duty. So Thursday afternoon I told Ava and Audrey that Viki should be there. The girls eagerly run into the apartment foyer but are not met by Viki. Instead there is Cornelia, the apartment manager, along with another woman. Ava asks "where's Viki?" and Cornelia responds that Viki no longer works here, and introduces us to Petruta, her replacement. Shocked, Audrey starts to cry and prostrates herself on the floor. This isn't just the cleaning lady we're talking about, this is bunica (grandma) Viki.

The next day I ask the other housekeeper, Elena, where Viki is. "Viki nu mai vine." (Viki is not coming anymore.) "De ce?" (why?) "Nu stui." (I don't know). Something doesn't smell right here. There is no way bunica Viki would have left us without saying goodbye.

Luckily, Elena knew Viki's telephone number, so I called with the help of Ava's teacher Catalina, to get the scoop (this story was going to be beyond my Romanian comprehension!).
Apparently, the apartment manager just showed up and fired Viki--for no reason and without notice. There are strict laws regarding the termination of employment here; there has to be a significant cause and then a notice period is required. Viki wanted to come see us, but was told that she couldn't, she just had to leave.

Outrageous. So now I'm stewing about what, if anything, I can do. Viki is looking into getting an attorney. In the meantime, we're not taking it out on the new cleaning lady. We gave her bon bons today.

Varicella (you know, chickenpox)

2009-11-20T22:34:00.000-08:00

"Bad news" Chad announced after dropping the girls off the second day at Kindergarten back in September. Well, September passed with no sign of the 'pox in our household, then October, and we were getting close to making it through November, but poor little Charlotte finally succumbed. Since the announcement of the first illness in September, a steady chain of kids has had it, and now our sweet baby. Charlotte is a trooper, though, and hasn't given us any trouble or complaint. So far Ava and Audrey's vaccinations seem to have shielded them (Charlotte was too young for the vaccine).

Party Like It's Your Name Day

2009-11-19T15:34:00.000-08:00

Oh, this country loves a good party. The three "Mateis" at English Kinder had a party celebrating their name day . . . this is as big of an event as a birthday party, complete with dancing, presents, pizza, cake, and circus performers.

These rockstar parties are starting to wear Audrey out.

The cake with explosives was a huge hit.

For the circus finale, a snake charmer.

Ava gives the hula hoop a whirl.

Chow hound

La Multi Ani!

2009-11-18T12:54:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday Pop Pop, or as they say here, la multi ani! (sorry we didn't get this posted earlier!)
Love you!

Dent Estet 4 Kids

2009-11-17T13:28:00.000-08:00

The girls had their first dental appointments today and did great! Audrey even sat in the chair, although she didn't go for the cleaning bit . . . next time.

Charlotte tries out "Mr. Thirsty".

Audrey shows off her pearly whites.

Ava practices her brushing technique in the waiting room. This dental office specializes in children's dentistry. Notice the toys and cartoon playing in the background. They had three aquariums with turtles and fish, a playstructure outside, two playrooms inside and cartoons projected on the walls for the kids to watch while in the chair. Who needs Disneyland?

Tennis Movies

2009-11-16T15:15:00.000-08:00

I just can't get enough photos of Ava playing tennis . . . 5 year olds with racquets are so cute (and some of them are really good, and a little bit older). This was shot a couple weeks ago.

La Mandragora

2009-11-15T16:12:00.000-08:00

We dined last night at the very pretty La Mandragora restaurant with Emi and Saskia, new friends we met last week during the expat event at Artmark. They speak German (he is Romanian and she is German), so we got to sprinkle our English with Deutsch which was fun. Romania has been hit by the financial "criza" like everywhere else, as evidenced by the empty dining room (although more diners came later on--our 8pm seating was early by romanian standards). The real estate market here also experienced the big boom in recent years and now the bust. (And yes, I ordered my fresh lemonade . . . even though it's getting cold here, you still need to drink lots of lemonade because they turn the heat on so high. We really haven't needed to use our heater in the apartment because there is so much ambient heat filtering in, so much so that Chad still opens the window or turns on the air conditioning to cool off!)

Bucharest Zoo

2009-11-14T22:09:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed the little zoo very much . . . highlights included the lions, tigers, jaguar, puma, a white bull, and a huge burmese python.

The girls browse through the pirated knock-off toys.

These pelicans were as big as Ava!

There was a sign outside the wolf exhibit concerning the "bushmeat" problem in Europe. We decided it would be safer to grab lunch at the mall, rather than one of the roadside stands outside the zoo with the rustic looking sausages. . .

Here you see the nice policeman drive away. Chad survived his first traffic stop on the way to the zoo. . . apparently that left turn across the double white line is a no-no.

We couldn't stay away from the newest mall, Palace Cotroceni, for long. Ava did great at its indoor ice skating rink.

Go Ava!

Dinner at La Mama . . . don't worry Audrey, Daddy will help you eat that. You should have seen the dessert.

Balthazar

2009-11-12T22:16:00.001-08:00

Our culinary tour of Bucharest continued last weekend at Balthazar, a restaurant with an internationally themed menu: We ordered fish dishes "France" and "Japan". And my chocolate cake was in the shape of a pyramid.

Don't you love the french awning?

I'm so glad we went and saw this. Amazing. Chad, Scott and Ryan would have seen the greatest concert, but alas, rip MJ.

"Oh wouldn't it be loverly." My inner Eliza Doolittle surfaced as we drove through the flower market, I hopped out and bought a beautiful bouquet of giant mums. The street was hopping with vendors and it was almost midnight. Noapte buna, Bucuresti!

Backhand

2009-11-12T15:39:00.000-08:00

Ava started practicing her backhand tonight at tennis. Another milestone . . . my baby is growing up! Sniff, Sniff. A huge tent with lights and heat was placed over the clay court so tennis will continue through the winter. I meant to take a photo of the tennis instructor's beer can on the table at the side of the court, but I got sidetracked when one of the kids got a bloody nose . . . I'll have to snap it next time. . . it's either a beer or espresso and you should hear his rendition of "It's a Barbie World" that he sings especially for Ava. She LOVES it.

Envy

2009-11-11T02:21:00.000-08:00

Sunday evening we had dinner with the other American family from church. The LeBarges have been here a couple years, the father works at the US Embassy as the economic advisor. Although their three kids are older than ours, the girls sure had fun playing, eating salad with ranch dressing, Pillsbury croissants and pumpkin pie! Ava had three servings. Plus, they sent us home with some goodies they got at the commissary: a box of Lucky Charms and a can of pumpkin (no such things in the grocery store here. Not so tragic for the Lucky Charms, but the lack of canned pumpkin poses a problem for these girls and their favorite fall dessert!) "Mommy, can we eat dinner here next Sunday?"

Your toys are better than my toys.

Romanian Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship

2009-11-10T15:49:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I took the girls to the rythmic gymnastics championships here in the land of Nadia Comenici. Audrey watches in awe.

wow.

Ava's favorite is the ribbon twirling.

The event center, Sala Polivaleneta, is in a beautiful, very large park that we had not been to yet.

Artmark

2009-11-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning found us at Artmark, a beautiful art gallery, where we (Chad and I) participated in a lecture and discussion on Romanian culture and architecture.

The girls got to play upstairs with crayons and crepe paper.

Charlotte wants to sculpt.

Afterwards, enjoying the yummy afternoon weather at Titan Park, which was recently renovated with great play structures.

Jackets

2009-11-06T15:25:00.000-08:00

The girls tested out their new jackets at the park today. It was a nice misty afternoon.

Tubtime: Ava performs for Charlotte "Since You've Been Gone" using the hand-held shower for a mic. The weekend has begun.

Fixer

2009-11-04T12:54:00.000-08:00

I fell in love with it the moment I saw it. This dream of a fixer is waiting patiently to be restored. It's hard to see in the photo, but the roof is crumbling off, the conservatory (yes, a conservatory!) has lots of broken window panes, and the yard is a jungle. Can you say "potential"?

After expressing a desire to leave their country, Romanians often will ask me what I think of Bucharest, how do I like it here. I tell them I like it very much (and realize that my life here is not the life of an average Romanian). Like this old villa, sure there are lots of problems, but you see the beauty in spite of them, and recognize the potential to be achieved through time and lots of hard work.

Girls' Night Out

2009-11-03T14:44:00.001-08:00

Look how happy they are. Bellies full of mac n' cheese, and a dance floor all to themselves! It was Friday night at Hard Rock Cafe with friends Gabby and Evelyn.

Kidi Coaf' Club

2009-11-02T14:26:00.001-08:00

Audrey shows off her new haircut. We found the CUTEST salon /spa/party center: "KidiCoaf'Club". That's right, moms and dads, sit back, relax, and get your hair done while the kiddies play upstairs. As it was Halloween, we happened upon their festivities.

Well of course it's in a pink building.

Mommy's vampire stylist.

Face painting, crafts and fun upstairs.

Halloween Charity Ball Bucharest 2009

2009-11-01T12:52:00.000-08:00

The Halloween Charity Ball at the Palace of Parliament was spectacular! It's a benefit for Ovidiu Rom, a charity emphasizing the improvement of children's education.

Making myself at home in the Palace.

Alison and David cut the rug. Like us, they have three girls. They are expats from Canada. We met them by chance in September at Hard Rock Cafe. They live about 5 hours north of Bucharest and came down for some "civilization" this weekend. We had a fantastic double date! Check out Alison's blog here and see what it's like outside the comforts of Bucharest.

In my glory: at a palace, dressed up, and dancing!

Schatz and Schoene aka Cowboy and Indian.

School makes you great! The ad campaign for the charity.

The beautiful ballroom.

My new buddy: actor Ethan Hawke. (He wore a "Great Expectations" ensemble with coat and top hat, not seen here. His mom founded the charity.)

Your wish is my command. After hitting road blocks in my quest to make a flamenca costume (such as there are no patterns here . . . you just take your fabric to the dressmaker), I was pleased to find this Princess of India/Genie ensemble at a costume rental store.

Regretfully, The End.

Off to the Ball

2009-10-31T10:53:00.000-07:00

Will tell you all about it . . . later!

Halloween Party at English Kinder

2009-10-30T15:25:00.000-07:00

Romanians know how to party: singing, dancing, food . . . what a petrecere!

Charlotte gets into the spirit.

Special guests: Canadian princesses

Cowboy and sidekick

The pumpkin gallery.

Ava bobs for apples . . . a first!

Charlotte's Firsts

2009-10-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

Charlotte is now clapping, and she has added two top teeth to match her bottom ones. She continues to scoot rather than crawl and now can pull herself up and stand for a second or two. Any bets on when she'll be walking? Her Romanian words include "la revedere" which sounds like "la la la LAH la" (she's got the accent down). She leans her head in when you say "kiss". Her favorite word is "mama", especially in the middle of the night. But Daddy started giving her "the treatment" this week and she has been denied access to Mama during the night. She behaves very well for Daddy--didn't take her long to figure out that she may as well just go back to sleep when he shows up.

Bears and Brasov

2009-10-27T14:25:00.001-07:00

"Mom, are there bears in Romania?" Ava queried as we drove through the woodsy hills on the way to Peles castle. "Oh, there aren't any bears at the castle sweetheart. Don't worry." 30 seconds later, we see the warning signs posted to the trees: "Pericol Ursi!" written underneath a picture of a snarling bear. "Ava is a Brown" sighed Schatzi. There were bear warning signs everywhere, but more dangerous are probably the packs of "community dogs", ie strays, that are much larger out here in the woods than in the city. Still, we gave our lunch leftovers to the dogs hanging outside the restaurant, that's why they're there afterall.

The gondola ride that almost never was. When we first boarded the gondola, we took our seats and then it stopped. We waited, thinking this stop was a kind gesture to allow us to get the children settled. No. The gondola had stopped unexpectedly. After quite some time, the operators finally asked us to get off. They did get it running, super slow, and were able to unload the other cars/cabins. So we bravely returned the next day and it was smooth sailing.

At the top.

The girls posing in the main square of Brasov. We went to church in Brasov and terrorized sacrament meeting: Imagine a chapel with a tile floor, Audrey's hard soled patent leather shoes (tap, tap, tap), no other children in the congregation, and did I mention Audrey was tired and hungry. Ay, ay ay. Anyhow, Brasov is a lovely, quaint city, with a lot of German influence in the architecture.

Peles Castle

2009-10-25T14:09:00.001-07:00

Saturday morning we headed up to Sinaia (about 2 hours north of Bucharest) to visit the lovely Peles Castle. It was a picture perfect autumn day. I must have commented on the beautiful fall foliage a hundred times. Peles is one of the nicest 19th century castles we've toured anywhere. The interior is stunning: the original furnishings are intact and well-preserved, showing what a splendid royal home this was once upon a time.

The architect of Peles was Austrian . . . can't you tell?

Schatzi and Snookie take in the statue of King Carol, who built Peles.

We ate lunch on the terrace of a nearby ski lodge and enjoyed the view.

Grounds full of lions.

Profesor de Dans

2009-10-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few quotes from our dance instructor, Costi:

"I thought maybe you were from Sweden with your blond hair and blue eyes. You are very beautiful." (Our first dance)

"Don't be afraid to squeeze my foot." (during Tango)

"His misfortune is our gain." (After I explained Chad's absence due to physical therapy for his back. (He's going three times a week.))

"You do not look like you have had three children." (Just think of how he can flatter in his native tongue.)

"Let me kiss you." (Really, he's harmless. It's the traditional Romanian greeting, kissing each cheek.)

"Do not wear dirty shoes on the dance floor." (Chad danced in his socks after that.)

And these are just the things that I feel comfortable enough to post on the blog without turning beet red. By the way, Costi has a Masters and PhD in physical education and sport. He holds a ton of dance championship titles and he's currently the vice president of the National Romanian Dance Sport organization. As he would tell you, he's very good.