The Adventures of Luca + Max

Chess

2011-11-25T21:12:00.006-05:00

Luca has been taking chess afterschool once a week for about 2 months now. Tonight he played a game with Daddy after dinner. He has a great understanding of the game, but not so much stamina to play for an extended period of time. So rather than playing until a king is taken, they played until someone captured 7 of the other's pieces. Luca won! Below is a video of Luca setting up the board a few days ago.

Fireside chess

Board setup

(sorry for vertical format)

1st Day of Kindergarten

2011-09-12T12:09:00.000-04:00

Power breakfast

Doing what I do best

Watching the U.S. N.Y. Ship pass by - made from
World Trade Center debris, it pulls into town for 9/11 tribute

Two handsome guys ready for a big day

Meeting in the courtyard before entering the school

Coloring a page that will be cover of his "Notes Folder"

Reading the calendar with today's activities

Max 18 Months

2011-09-11T17:37:00.000-04:00

Wow, its been months since our last post!

Better view from up here :)

Max is now 18 months. A few of his latest tricks include shaking his head "no", nodding "yes" (as of yesterday), enjoying cappuccino, climbing to the top bunk of Luca's bed, climbing on the coffee table, trying to jump from the coffee table onto the sofa, moving chair next to counter and climbing up onto counter, turning on bath and then the handshower to flood the bathroom, exfoliating his face with Mommy's expensive face creams, "washing" his hair with diaper cream, wearing socks on his hands, and eating large live beatles off the patio, to name a few.

Remember when we thought unrolling the toilet paper was cute?

Here's a sweet little video of Max eating dinner last night where he makes all his cute faces and nods "yes":

If you can't see the video, click this link:
Max eating dinner

5 Year Old Check-Up

2011-06-29T21:43:00.003-04:00

He got two "ouchies" -

"The best thing about getting 'ouchies' is the lollipop. The worst part is that it hurts."

40.8 lbs (50%)
43-3/4" (75%)

Grew over 3" and gained 4.5 lbs since last year.

Here he is drinking celery soda at Bubby's, out to lunch with Mommy after dr appt -

Luca's 5th - Bowling at Chelsea Piers

2011-06-26T22:44:00.001-04:00

Luca's 5th Bowling, a set on Flickr.

The birthday celebration continues...

Luca's 5th Birthday

2011-06-25T00:36:00.005-04:00

Luca is 5 years old! This much anticipated birthday was a huge success. Luca had a fabulous day and passed out cold in 2 minutes once in bed. Here are some of the highlights (most including sugar) -

Skyping with cousin Sophia over breakfast. Mommy bought some of the junky sugar cereal Luca always covets (and is repeatedly denied) as a special treat. This was so enticing he overlooked all presents until he was done eating :)

"Just what I wanted!!!!"

Well, that wasn't hard for us to guess since Cartoon Network played the commercial every chance they could this week, and he hasn't stopped talking about this Lego set...

Building Cars 2 vehicles

New Automoblox car -

When I was pregnant and we learned it was a boy, Gioel ordered every Automoblox car ever manufactured at that time (about 12). He has gotten one for every birthday and Chanukah every since he was born. This is almost the last one in the set. I wasn't sure how he would respond to the car gift since he doesn't play with these as much these days, now that he is more into Lego and fighting toys, but he was sooo excited and he loved the story of Daddy buying them back when he was still in the belly. (Don't be deceived by somber expression, he was just bored of my snapping pictures)

Thumbs up for 5 years!!!!

Off for an afternoon with Mommy. Fancy lunch (he did manage to get some healthy veggies and grilled arctic char before consuming the remainder of his sugary treats), visit to Mommy's office, then Daddy's office -

Chillin' at Bloomberg -

Cupcakes on the terrace at BB -

Arcade at movie theater with buddy Tristan -

CARS 2 Movie!!!

Enjoying litchi/mango ice cream cake from Tristan. What a great day!!!

Father's Day

2011-06-21T23:47:00.006-04:00

We had a great brunch with Great-Grandpa Zoom and Anita, Uncle Steven and Aunt Julie. Not sure why I didn't even think to use my camera earlier in the day? Sorry about that. We spent the afternoon in the park where Luca launched a rocket Grampy gave him as an early birthday present.

Luca took his dad out for a "boys night" dinner. He was eager to wear his sportcoat and tie, just like he now sees Gioel wear everyday to work. Gioel wasn't too excited to have to suit up on a 85 degree Sunday evening to go to a super casual chinese restaurant for noodles and dumplings, but he was a good sport for Luca.

All dressed up - Luca insisted Daddy also wear tan pants and plaid tie, just like him.

Super proud kid!

Max 15 Months

2011-06-08T23:44:00.000-04:00

34-1/4" tall (above 95%)
27 lb (90%)

Finally walking!

Father's Day In The Park With The Molinari's from Steven Fleisher on Vimeo.

1 yr Old Snuggle-Beatdown

2011-05-25T23:22:00.002-04:00

Max's First Steps

2011-05-21T23:57:00.001-04:00

This was taken exactly a month ago (May 21st) but I never posted. After this miraculous afternoon of walking all over the house for the first time, he didnt really walk again for about two weeks. Now he's the master walker after a week of building his confidence and enjoying his new upright view of life!

Anyway, here's footage of the actual first steps.

Luca Reading

2011-04-24T21:16:00.001-04:00

Passover

2011-04-19T22:43:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Aunt Celia and Uncle Eric for hosting such a lovely seder last night at their home. Luca proudly brought his own matzoh (a gift from Chabad) and a "seder placemat" that he made at school. Below is picture of Luca with his seder items, then a video of all the older cousins singing the four questions, led by Herschel.

(If you can't see the video, click on the link at the bottom of this email that says "The Adventures of Luca & Max" to open the blog website and you can view it easily there)

Here is a video of the kids singing the four questions:

Bathtime

2011-04-19T22:13:00.002-04:00

Luca: "I always wanted a baby brother who was this silly!"

Some April photos

2011-04-19T21:57:00.004-04:00

Luca and our neighbor Tristan on their scooters at the park. This is the “open spot” in front of our building, right on the river, where Luca rides every day (in Spring/Summer/Fall) in big circles, doing tricks -

Daddy using his “Garden Leave” to build remote control Lego masterpieces with Luca (and Max)

13 Months old today (photo taken 4/8)! Playing at the Community Center near our house, where Luca and Max both have swim lessons -

Luca smothering Max. Max loving every second of it -

More hugging -

Luca and his friend Oliver at a “Tot Shabbat” sing-a-long Saturday morning at school. All famililes and kids, all ages welcome. We brought Max as well, but no pictures since I don't think he would sit still. This photo was taken as the Passover story was being told. Boys were having a blast together. They were two of the oldest kids and they felt very proud to be able to answer all the questions about the story and participate. Oliver is one of Luca’s best friends in his class. Coincidence they are dressed alike!

Max will only eat a banana if he can hold the whole thing. Wearing weird X-Mas themed PJs. I got them on sale back in the day for Luca not realizing they had red and green gingerbread men!

Max Into More Trouble

2011-04-12T07:54:00.002-04:00

Max can now stand up at dining table, pulling off whatever is in reach. See example:

Max's 1st Birthday

2011-03-08T20:45:00.000-05:00

A quiet afternoon at home, we celebrated after Luca got home from school, so essentially Max ate his cake as an appetizer before his dinner entree. We got a special cake for Max and another cake for the rest of us. That was Luca's request: a cake with no frosting for the rest of us, since he doesn't love buttery icing. We selected a strawberry shortcake that was made with pound cake, berries and what looked to be whipped cream, but turned out to be kind of cream-cheesy. That was a fail. Luca hated all the cakes and I didnt like how heavy it was either.

Max found his cake satisfactory. He ate a few bites, smushed the icing a bit. Then ate his dinner of chicken and vegetables right off the tray that was still covered in the colored icing and cake remnants. This kid will eat anything and everything. No reservations whatsoever. I'm sure this will end at some point, but for now, we are enjoying his pleasure with all things edible!

He does have a few favorites - mostly fruits: watermelon, strawberries, raspberries, orange, grapefruit, apple. He also likes all green foods (as does Luca). From any entree he will pick out all green vegetable and herbs first and eat them before moving on to the rest of the food groups. Also likes grilled cheese, mac-n-cheese, omelettes with veggies and cheese (today he devoured a frittata with spinach, basil and goat cheese), couscous, lentils, chicken, salmon, all other fish, zucchini, peas, mango, yogurt. Not crazy about banana. Prefers warm cheese over cold.

Erenia got Max a "Rody" bouncy thing. Will post a video of that soon.

Luca selected a special "Playmobil for babies" racecar and carrier truck - which he picked out at the store, unwrapped for his brother, and spent the rest of the day hoarding. Didn't matter. Max was content with just the discarded wrapping paper. As the month passed, he now is really into the toy. Good selection Luca!

This post is a little overdue. Max is now 13 months. He is ALMOST walking. Over the past few days he has been letting go when cruising and stands quite sure-footed and balanced. Today he ventured away from the sofa and took about 2 steps before squatting down to his knees. Speaking of knees, the poor guy has totally calloused knees from crawling! I can't recall Luca having rough knees. Doesn't bother him at all. Then again, nothing really does. He's such a tough guy!

Max gets around

2011-02-20T20:56:00.002-05:00

I found Max at the front door with a dining chair this afternoon. I grabbed the camera and took a video of his getting around the house walking pushing the chair for support. He was pretty amused with himself!

Busted!

2011-02-12T19:43:00.002-05:00

If you come to our house and use the bathroom, you might just have to find yourself a few squares from the pile on the floor since I'm pretty over rolling the paper back up.

Reading Italian

2011-02-08T21:55:00.001-05:00

Luca testing out his new Italian flashcards

Max 11 Months

2011-02-08T13:39:00.002-05:00

Max refused to sit with his sign, so here he is posing in his favorite spot in the apartment. End of couch where he can pull all the pillows off onto the floor, or cruise to our wobbly metal and glass top end table in attempt to capsize the whole thing - glass, lamp, picture frame, remote control and all...

- 9 teeth (as far as I can tell when he lets me check) - the 4 top front, 4 top bottom have been here since before Xmas. A new molar that busted through gums a couple days ago.

- Standing, cruising

- Opening and closing doors

- Loves to put the top on his bottle after he drinks it. You would think by his reaction that this is the most special thing to do in the entire world :)

- Says Dadda to Gioel (and to everything else in the house) - but also says "ba-bba" a lot too. Luca can repeat an entire monologue in "Max talk" which amazingly enough picks up all the particular sounds, tones and inflections his brother can make. I can only distinguish Dadda and Babba for the most part, until Luca mimics his brother and suddenly I realize there are a whole slew of sounds! Will have to capture Luca on video and post.

- Eating mostly all table food, not too much puree stuff now. Although he loves to suck the babyfood fruits right from the pouch.

- Brushes his own hair if you give him a brush. Too bad he doesn't really have any hair to brush - otherwise this trick would be awfully useful!

- Deliberately snuggles (we love this of course!)

Max Beating on Luca

2011-02-07T00:33:00.001-05:00

Here Luca and Max play in the warm laundry I just pulled out of the dryer. I pulled it out to fold and Max was cuddling in it when Luca came over, dove in and then Max went to town climbing all over him and giving him a good pounding (which Luca enjoyed oddly enough!)...

Luca and Max playing in the clean laundry from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

Luca's 1/2 Birthday

2011-02-07T00:03:00.002-05:00

When a child in Luca's class turns 5 there is a little celebration. So the summer birthday kids aren't left out, there are "half-birthday" parties too! Here we are over a month late celebrating since pre-Holiday Vacation the original date got cancelled due to a virus that had half the class (including Luca) out for over a week, then again cancelled in January for snowy weather. Finally, Luca got to have his chocolate cake (his choice over last year's Tofutti Cuties) and parents in class for the party. His friends in class presented him with the most special gift - a book they made in which each child decorated a page with pictures for Luca and quotes about why he is such a great friend. Thanks to Luca's teachers Sima, Shira and Sarah for arranging such a nice celebration!

Here Luca greets Mommy & Daddy in the school cafe where we were waiting to be brought into the classroom...

Sitting at head of the class...

Thinking about his wish...

Story time. Luca chose his favorite book in his classroom for Mommy to read. "Rabbit's Gift" about a rabbit who shares his turnip during snowy weather with the other animals. Luca announced to the class this is his favorite "because I love turnips", although we all really know its because he loves sharing ;-)

Max 10 Months

2011-01-17T19:56:00.004-05:00

Pulls up to stand on his own

Impossible to change his diaper since he immediately, aggressively turns over and crawls off

8 teeth - 4 on top, 4 on the bottom

LOVES to eat, especially when he can feed himself.

Some favorites:

Peas, zucchini, carrots, watermelon, cheese, yogurt, turkey, strawberries, broccoli, cauliflower

It been wonderful to watch Luca and Max together. Luca is so affectionate and caring, always taking good care of his brother and giving us reports of what Max is doing. Max adores everything about Luca. If he is eating in his highchair or sitting having his bottle and he hears Luca in the other room, he cannot focus and refuses to eat. He needs to immediately be put down so he can crawl over to be near Luca.

Playing with Luca

Luca on the Slopes

2010-12-26T13:24:00.002-05:00

5th Day Skiing! Here Luca flies down with Mommy, Grandpa and cousins Scott, Neal and Jamie. It was our first time watching him ski out of ski school.

Max 9 Months

2010-12-11T11:03:00.003-05:00

Someday I'll get the 7th and 8th month pictures off our old camera. Skipping ahead to 9 months...

Weight: 25 lbs (between 90-95%)

Height: 30-1/2" (95%)

Teeth: 4 on the bottom, 2 top center, 2 incisors about to break through

Crawling, sitting, pulling up to knees, but not to stand

Laughing

Babbling - according to Luca, here are some of his "words": glee, glegh, ungoo, da-da-da, um-buhh, ha-ha-ha

Clapping, Raises hands about head with hands in fists

Passing things from hand to hand

Eating puffs, but not much chunky food

Max's 1st Hanukkah

2010-12-01T23:41:00.001-05:00

Luca excited in front of the ridiculous amount of present accumulated from Mom, Dad, Grandparents and cousins... What to open first? He opened an awesome off-roader from Andrew and Justin and an Erector Set from Grandma/Grandpa. Pretty great 1st night for Luca!

Uncle Steven joins us for the 1st night

Luca lighting Uncle Steven's menorah since Mommy forgot our family menorah in the Connecticut house.

Luca lighting the wicks set in oil in his menorah that he made at school

Max opening his first present. Luca eventually jumped in to help. The gift was a toy car for infants to push when learning to crawl, little popping balls jump around inside. Whoops, didnt get a picture!

Max Crawling

2010-11-30T20:55:00.001-05:00

Obviously I'm catching up on blog posts tonight. This the last one for today - tomorrow hopefully I will be on point to upload the 9 month pic (along with months 7 & 8 which are still on the camera) after his check-up in the morning...

Here is one of the first moments crawling. Thank goodness for iPhone video so I catch the moments fast when I don't have camera handy! Here is is scooting across the floor in the playroom in our building.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-26T23:30:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving 2010 with Gioel's family at JMR's Chamard Vineyard. What an incredible setting for the holiday meal.

Daddy and Max dressed alike in their red cords and button down shirts -

Nonna and Max

Immediate family shot. (We missed you MICOL!)

Cousins!

Posing with Tante Judi:

The traditional Thanksgiving Reading, Uncle David leads -

Mommy and Luca follow along -

Some of the food. Aunt Bonnie organized some fabulous catering. (Jason, we expect to eat one of your turkeys again one of these years!)

...and by the end of the weekend Max started crawling!

Max - 6 Months

2010-09-08T13:09:00.009-04:00

WOW! I am really growing fast!

21 lbs, 29" long

Still maintaining my record of 95% height and weight.

(We cross checked the stats with Luca's growth. He hit this height and weight at his 8 month check-up. At 6 months, Luca was only 17.5 lbs and 26.75" long).

Milestones:

Nearly sitting up on his own

Drooling everywhere, we expect more teeth any day now!

Loves to watch his brother and his dad

Watching mommy blowdry hair has strong calming effect

Eating 3 meals a day solid food, tried his first proteins - poultry and egg yolk

Passing things hand to hand

Enjoying tummy time

Prefers sleeping on his side now instead of his back

Favorite toy: that trendy rubber giraffe chew toy

and

Still quite bald!

We couldn't get a smile from Max during photo session (you can't even imagine the stunts I was pulling behind the camera, yet he was determined to remain serious and pensive!) We brought Luca in to help. The boys had more fun with the sign and together refused to smile or look at camera. These few pics capture the moment well :)

Napa Visit

2010-08-20T17:19:00.002-04:00

A little belated - we're trying to catch up on posts!

We had a fabulous week in Napa last month visiting our old NYC neighbors and dear friends, the Dragoos. Luca and Austin were so happy to be reunited - they remembered all their old games and funny made-up words. We were so happy to meet Austin's new brother, Hayden. Max and Hayden will be good buddies one day! They are exactly 2 months apart, just like Luca and Austin. We spent every day outside at the local parks, eating well and just relaxing together like old times over here at the Riverhouse. We miss you guys!

Big boys in car

Little guys in car

Both babies! Everyone kept asking us if they were twins. must be the hairstyle!

Lunch at Taylor's Refresher

Me and Ali with the babies at the St Helena Farmers Market

Boys playing at park at St Helena Farmers Market

Bad Guy! Gun!

At Austin's 4th Birthday Party at Scientopia

Morning cartoons in jammies. Holding Lego weapons...

Max - 5 Months

2010-08-09T22:07:00.002-04:00

I realize its been exactly a month since our last post. I have a bit to catch up on!

Max is 5 months and still topping the charts measuring over 95% in height and weight.

Height: 27-3/4"

Weight: 19 lbs, 14 oz.

Last week he got two teeth, one on 7/28 and the other on 7/29. The pediatrician had us start him on solids early since he had started waking in the night again. Apparently a 4 month old as large as Max needs more than just breastmilk to be satisfied! So far he has tried apples, pears, banana, sweet potato, squash, chayote squash, prunes, carrots, oats and rice cereal. He doesn't care for bananas.

Max 4 Months

2010-07-09T16:15:00.004-04:00

Started teething,
Makes raspberry sounds with his mouth,
Laughs out loud,
Rolls over almost from back to his front - makes it about 160 degrees,
Enjoys tummy time for a short while,
Cooled off with Mommy at the Verbano Club for his first swim in the pool,
Eats 5-6x/day, drank a 7oz bottle today,
Loves having his cheeks tickled...

...and here's Luca helping Nonno make Pizza!

Luca Turns 4

2010-06-29T04:03:00.009-04:00

Riding the metro to the center of Milan to visit the Ferrari Store (Its a surprise, at this point he still doesn't know where we are going)

"I'm 4!"

In Michael Schumacher's F1 Ferrari Racecar

Eating nice lunch outside with Mommy and Daddy. Gnocchi with pesto and focaccia.

Picking out supreme gelato for dessert

Milk chocolate, his favorite (this week)

Special Ferrari cake

Refused to let us sing Happy Birthday and light candles, but he still wanted to eat cake. I think he was a little worn out from the trip to the center!

Passed out after a long day! New car from Ferrari store in lap, new hat on head :)

Arrival in Italy - Gignese

2010-06-29T03:03:00.006-04:00

Airport with Grandpa

Watching Toy Story on the plane

Nonno and Grandpa playing with Max

Bisnonna (Great Grandma)

Grandma Ellen with Luca

Luca at work

Orata Gianpiero made for dinner

Max - 3 Months Old

2010-06-09T17:39:00.005-04:00

Despite spitting up non-stop, Max is definitely growing.

STATS from today's check-up:

Weight: 16 lb 8 oz (95%)
Height: 26-1/4" (OVER 95%!!)
Head circumference: 16-7/8" (90%)

At least he's proportionate!

(Shout out to Tante Judi! "Matching outfits!" xoxo)

This is why they call him "Zoom"

2010-05-18T18:30:00.000-04:00

Luca rode his scooter home from dinner last night. His great-grandpa Zoom ("Grampy") chased after him. 87 years young, Zoom ran 5 blocks home after Luca and didnt even break a sweat!

Mother's Day

2010-05-10T21:41:00.000-04:00

It was a wonderful Mother's Day! Mainly a lazy day at home since the weather was a bit gloomy, but we had a great day nonetheless. Micol was still here and enjoyed lunch with us. Later in the afternoon Steven and Julie came over for a while. Grandpa Zoom returned from Florida and arrived in time for dinner...

Gioel took Luca to a special shop called "Lobster Place" and they brought home fresh live lobsters. He made one of my favorite lunches - lobster rolls and chips. It was incredible!

With both my boys before dinner:

Wolfgangs for dinner. Max was completely passed out. That worked out nicely. Luca ate nearly half a porterhouse - his favorite.

Check out the dessert. Luca's eyes were glazed over before he even took the first bite!

Family shot

Thanks to everyone for making my Mother's Day so special. Thanks to my own Mom for being such a great teacher - you are so loving, selfless and thoughtful. Thanks to my boys for bringing so much joy and love into my life!

Zia Micol's Visit

2010-05-09T21:33:00.000-04:00

Its always so incredibly special to have Micol visit us!!! All the way from London, she brought her magic here to NYC for 5 magnificent days. We wish she could've stayed longer. At least we can look forward to seeing her again in Italy this summer when our trips coincide! YAY!

Luca was in heaven with his super fun Zia! They spoke Italian, English and a new made up language called "Sciacchaino"

Max slept through breakfast at le Pain Quotidien:

Max slept for nearly 2 hours while Mom and Zia tried on almost every item at Anthropologie:

Max slept some more when we went for pizza at Motorino in the East Village:

Micol and Gioel at the Highline Park:

Max is finally awake!

Max - 2 Months Old

2010-05-08T07:22:00.001-04:00

Max is a little bit larger than Luca was at this age. But then again, it seems he is bigger than most babies! Maybe he will be taller than him when they are grown!

Length = 24.25", 95th percentile

Weight = 13lbs 8oz, 90th percentile

Celebrating with Zia

Both boys in their "Gnomie" shirts:

Dressed in Nonno's colors

2010-04-30T21:34:00.000-04:00

First Smiles

2010-04-30T18:41:00.004-04:00

Some of Maxs first smiles yesterday!
(Thanks to the Clarifi team for the onesies!)

During our photo session Luca passed out on the sofa. Notice the little car tucked in right under his chin ;-)

Then again today he fell asleep on the sofa after school. Car in hand, again!

Funny stuff Luca said today

2010-04-28T22:35:00.003-04:00

Luca was scratching and itch in his ear. When he pulled his finger away, he slowly brought it to his nose and sniffed. I said "Honey, ears dont smell!" to which he replied "Mine does. Its smells like earth and brioche."

Luca licked Max's head tonight when we were reading in bed at story time. He said "Mom, I just licked Max's head because its so perfectly round like a lollipop top."

Peas outfit - Thanks Anna!

2010-04-09T10:11:00.003-04:00

Max in the peas outfit, 4 weeks old:

Flashback: Luca in peas outfit, 4 weeks

Max - 1 Month Old

2010-04-09T10:02:00.003-04:00

I never did the month-by-month photo post of Luca, so attempting to be diligent about this time with Max. Here is our first installment, taken yesterday on his 1 month birthday.

Giving Max a bath last week - one of Luca's favorite things to do...

Snuggling on the bed

Daddy and his boys

2010-04-07T10:17:00.000-04:00

Luca singing John Jacob & Sharing Song

2010-03-25T09:17:00.001-04:00

Luca Singing from Ellen Fleisher on Vimeo.

Luca Playing the Guitar for Grandma from Ellen Fleisher on Vimeo.

First Days at home with Max

2010-03-25T05:00:00.004-04:00

Luca and Austin

2010-03-24T15:16:00.004-04:00

A few great shots of Luca and his best friend Austin -

Riding scooter and bike at "the open spot"

Playing office in a fort they nicknamed "the bibby house" in a local playroom

Playing at Thomas table, finally not arguing over who gets which train

Hanging with the Daddies at the park this past weekend

New baby brother

2010-03-19T02:30:00.003-04:00

Gioel: Do you like your new little brother?

Luca: Yes! He's an epic win.

Max Ezekiel Molinari was born March 8th at 1:26pm, 8lbs 9oz, 20-3/4" long

Shaving

2010-01-11T22:32:00.002-05:00

After Luca got his haircut last week (which he gets at a kids salon/toy store) I let him choose a new toy present from the bath section. I thought this would be a good incentive to get him enthusiastic about taking a bath since he has been giving me a hard time lately, claiming he "wants to stay dirty". He chose this shaving kit. BIG success! He loves the kit and took his shaving VERY seriously. In fact, he wouldn't even let me touch his razor, insisting that its too sharp and dangerous. Glad my lessons on razors have sunk in ;-)

Also here's a cute pic taken last night during storytime with Daddy...

Big Snow

2009-12-21T15:14:00.003-05:00

Tossing snowballs

Hiding under jungle gym with Austin

Showing snowball to Daddy

Warming up with some Italian hot cocoa "Ciobar" after a fun morning outside

"Chasing the Bad Guys"

2009-12-21T15:06:00.000-05:00

Luca and Austin Chasing the Bad Guys from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

8th Night of Chanukah

2009-12-18T21:28:00.000-05:00

8th Night of Chanukah from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

Luca's Little Composition

2009-12-08T23:02:00.002-05:00

Blowing Bubbles

2009-11-05T16:42:00.001-05:00

Bubble Blowing in Connecticut with Grandma from Ellen Fleisher on Vimeo.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T20:41:00.002-04:00

With decorations in our lobby:

Posing with Mommy before trick-or-treating:

We visited a Halloween Fair today in our neighborhood -
There were all sorts of strange characters in costumes. Luca found this tap dancing skeleton and they performed together until Luca got upset that his shoes weren't making the cool tap noises and quit the show.

Dancing Skeletons from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

Truffles are in Season!

2009-10-31T20:22:00.002-04:00

Gioel got some fantastic truffles last week. We had risotto with porcini mushrooms with the truffles shaved on top. Luca enjoyed it very much. If you recall from last year when Gioel served this dish, Luca ate only the truffles off the top. This year he did a better job of enjoying the dish in its entirety!

Apple Picking

2009-10-18T17:59:00.002-04:00

Apple Picking from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

Jack-O-Lanterns

2009-10-15T23:02:00.006-04:00

Luca and his buddy Austin carved these pumpkins. Ok, maybe not. But they did have fun assisting in the process and they especially had fun making hash out of the innards during and after the pumpkin clean out. The weather was beautiful in CT this past weekend and the boys had fun collecting leaves, digging in the mud and racing remote control cars.
(Scroll down for pics below the video)

Jack-O-Lanterns from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

Throwing rocks off the hill

Our friends Ali and Austin visiting for the weekend

Carving pumpkins Sunday morning

Austin working hard

In jammies, ready to drive back to the city. Making funny faces for camera...

Pumpkins and Firetrucks

2009-10-10T13:45:00.002-04:00

Today in Connecticut we went to the little center of town where the firemen had their trucks on display and there were pumpkins for sale. Luca picked "the perfect pumpkin" and got to sit up in the drivers seat of the truck - he was in heaven!

The fireman is Luca's buddy Austin, our neighbor from NYC, who is up here with his mom for the weekend...

First Visit to a Hobby Shop

2009-10-03T17:23:00.001-04:00

Hobby Store from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

Luca in his Classroom

2009-09-17T11:47:00.001-04:00

With classmate Eden and teacher Cybele at the sand table. His favorite spot. This morning he woke up and told me he didnt want to eat breakfast - he wanted to go straight to the sand table at school. Of course I was excited that he likes school so much, I wasn't exactly thrilled that this happened at 5:30 a.m. and he wouldnt go back to sleep!

Luca Riding his Bike

2009-09-16T17:58:00.003-04:00

First Day of Preschool

2009-09-16T17:34:00.002-04:00

All set in the lobby of our apartment, ready to walk to school.

Breakfast at Bouley Bakery across the street from preschool. Luca enjoyed an orange muffin he picked out at the counter.

Pictures at the school were off limits to reduce commotion - although there was a mother who was snapping away at her daughter in the classroom while she and Luca were playing together at the sand table at the start of class. I asked her to email me the pictures so hopefully I can get those up on the blog too very soon!

It was a great first day. Luca has class in the same room as his cooking class at the JCP last semester. Finally, all the toys that were pushed aside and off limits to him before were laying out on display for his use! He was so overjoyed he forgot I was even there. After 5 minutes watching him play from the sidelines, I told him I would wait for him out in the cafe at the school and come back in an hour. He said "OK!" and didnt even look up from what he was doing!

Today was just an hour. Tomorrow is a bit longer and after about 2 weeks he will be completely phased into his regular 3 hour morning, 9-12. He has 12 kids in his class and 3 teachers - Cybele, Chloe and Run.

What is a Gazebo?

2009-09-15T23:43:00.002-04:00

Three Little Birds

2009-09-02T17:23:00.002-04:00

Singing Song from Wall-E

2009-05-25T08:26:00.000-04:00

Singing song from Wall-E from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

Living the Good Life

2009-05-23T11:57:00.005-04:00

Lunch at the Verbano Club in Stresa

Playing on the rocky beach of Lago Maggiore at the Verbano before lunch:

Lunch at the Verbano from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

Playing with Italian Cousins

2009-05-22T19:14:00.001-04:00

Giocando con Cugini Italiani a Gignese from Gioel Molinari on Vimeo.

Il Nostro Primo Giorno a Gignese

2009-05-22T17:04:00.004-04:00

Of course all we do is eat!

Nonno made more pizza:

We played all afternoon with cousin Lucia's son, Pietro, who is about 6 months younger than Luca. Then we went over to the bar for gelato. Both boys chose their own treat, then once they saw each others they only wanted what they didnt have!

Making Pizza with Nonno

2009-05-21T13:03:00.001-04:00

Fa Una Pizza con Nonno from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

Reading Recipes

2009-04-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

This video is about a month old - I just forgot to upload to the blog.

Luca loves this little book of risotto recipes from Erenia. Our little chef in the making!

Reading Recipes from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

Intrepid

2009-03-15T22:24:00.004-04:00

We took Luca to see the Intrepid Museum today to expand his fascination with land vehicles to air and sea. He got to see war planes, helicopters and tour the inside of the Concorde. There was a submarine docked too, but its not open for another couple months. We'll have to take him back again!

CLICK HERE to see the full album.

Luca in a Box

2009-03-13T15:04:00.001-04:00

Visiting the Donos

2009-03-13T14:45:00.004-04:00

We just got back from a super fun visit with the Donos at their new home, just outside Philadelphia. Luca and Pierce are the cutest buddies. They are like little twins playing side by side and always looking out for each other. A lot of credit goes to Pierce for this - he is the most compassionate, caring child, always making sure Luca is having fun, eating enough food, trying every toy, right along side him.

Probably appropriate to mention that the boys are pants-less and debuting their new undies since they are getting potty trained this week.

CLICK HERE to see video if its not showing in your browser.

Hanging out in the fort, pretending to go for a trip on an airplane:

CLICK HERE to see all the pictures from our visit.

More Coloring & Chatting

2009-03-12T23:47:00.001-04:00

CLICK HERE to view the video if it doesn't show up...

Coloring from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

Big Top Circus

2009-03-01T23:49:00.004-05:00

Today we took Luca to a UJA event called "Big Top Circus" at Chelsea Piers. It was perfect for the little ones - a circus show with acrobats, clowns, bounce-house, carnival games and arts&crafts projects. Here are a few pictures of the highlights for Luca.

Luca's first cotton candy. He was enjoying it so much I couldnt get him to pull it away from his face for a good picture!

Playing baseball...

Time to head home. More sad to leave Uncle Steven than the circus...

New Big Boy Race Car Bed

2009-02-25T22:47:00.004-05:00

New car bed is a total success! I keep finding him snuggling in it during the day just for fun.

Tonight is his 3rd night in the bed. The first day we assembled it, he was too excited to take a nap and even at bedtime he was pretty wired. After a while trying to calm him down - nearly 9 pm after a napless day - I told him "Luca, lay here for a couple minutes while I unload the dishwasher. I'm only coming back to check on you if you don't cry or get up." I went in the kitchen, moved a couple things around, made a little noise and when I went back in 3 minutes later to check on him he was out cold. Probably should've tried that technique 30 minutes sooner!

He still calls for me in the morning and doesn't get out on his own. Old habits die hard? We thought we might find him standing next to our bed at sunrise, but he is sleeping until his usual time. Can't complain - I love running in his room when I hear him calling to find him lying there, looking up at me with that giant smile. Just the same as it has been since he was an infant when I would first get him in the morning. Sigh....

We highly recommend this goofy bed for anyone who can handle the excitement.

Coloring with Markers

2009-02-25T09:46:00.003-05:00

Practicing drawing a frame around the page. Not sure where he got that idea? Also, I try to coax him to speak his thoughts on the color pink ("Its for girls")...

Coloring with Markers from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

CLICK HERE to view video if it doesn't show up in your email.

Making Music

2009-02-10T08:18:00.002-05:00

Luca plays his guitar and sings his own version of "Where is Thumbkin?" meets "Frère Jacques"...

CLICK HERE to view video

Making Music from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

Playing with Daddy

2009-02-10T08:03:00.003-05:00

Luca plays with his magnetic pattern shapes toy with Daddy. They are discussing the shapes in Italian. When Luca can't think of the Italian word for trapezoid, he makes up his own word rather than using the English. He does this from time to time and its quite funny!

CLICK HERE to view video if it doesnt show up in your email.

Playing with Daddy from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

Making Muscles (video)

2009-02-09T23:51:00.002-05:00

CLICK HERE to view video

Bedtime Routine

2009-02-09T22:55:00.003-05:00

Bath, Brush Teeth & Storytime

Craft Project

2009-01-22T12:48:00.002-05:00

Luca having fun making wooden bead necklace "for mommy". He was so proud of the finished product!

Luca's Favorite Song

2009-01-10T18:47:00.001-05:00

Atlanta Aquarium

2009-01-06T08:58:00.004-05:00

On our way home from Colorado we made a pit stop in Atlanta to visit with Zio Jasone and Aunt Allison at their beautiful new home. They took us to the fabulous Aquarium - we all had a great time!

Snack break with Daddy:

In spalla con Zio Jasone:

Driving the boat:

Touching tank:

New Years Eve 2009

2009-01-02T22:51:00.004-05:00

We had a very special New Years with MJR, Tante Judi, Andrew and Justin at a great new restaurant in Avon called Avondale. Luca was in heaven with his cousins!!! Was no effort at all to sit for 2 hours at the table when he was getting all that attention from the boys :)

Cheers! Sparking cider and milk :)

Colorado and Steven's Engagement

2009-01-02T22:32:00.003-05:00

CLICK HERE to see a few more pictures from our two weeks in Colorado - including some pics from Steven and Julie's engagement party.

Happy Hanukkah!

2008-12-27T02:49:00.004-05:00

This kid LOVES opening presents!

We have been enjoying nightly Hanukkah celebrations here in Colorado with all our family and friends. My parents brought their menorah that was a wedding gift from my Dad's grandmother, given to them nearly 35 years ago. Tonight was a particularly special candle lighting as we toasted Steven and Julie to celebrate their engagement! Mazel Tov!!!

CLICK HERE for a few more Hanukkah pictures!

Luca's first day on Skis

2008-12-27T02:24:00.005-05:00

CLICK HERE to see a few pictures of Luca's first day on skis.

After a session of kicking and screaming in the house as we dressed him in all his snow clothes, he calmed down and got excited to get out there. Once outside in the snow he forgot all his worries. We were actually surprised how willingly he clicked into his ski boots and skis - not at all traumatic like the ski pants he hates putting on. Luca loved getting on the "people mover" that brought us up the bunny slope. I thought for sure he would be a little nervous about that, but he was totally calm and commented "Its just like at the airport!" Once we started down the mountain he wanted to go FAST!!! and kept begging me to go faster, "SPEED, MOM!!! SPEEEEED!!!!" We did about 10 runs then went into the club for some hot chocolate and lunch. He was exhausted - and so was I!!!

Playing the Colorado Snow

2008-12-24T12:10:00.005-05:00

It already snowed 18" since we arrived here and we expect 10-20" more by Xmas day! Luca didnt want to get his gear on yesterday, but after we were outside he immediately forgot his worries! Finally the sun is out today and we are taking Luca skiing for the first time. Hopefully it will be a success and we can post those pics tonight...

Luca the Pool Shark

2008-12-18T00:21:00.001-05:00

Luca playing pool from Ellen Fleisher on Vimeo.

Thanksgiving in Florida

2008-12-16T23:53:00.008-05:00

THANKSGIVING NIGHT - THIS TIE STAYED ON FOR 30 SECONDS

PLAYING WITH PRETEND SUSHI WITH ZIO JASONE

SWIMMING AT MIMI & PA'S

COOKING STUFFING FOR T-DAY DINNER

PLAYING CARS WITH GREAT-GRAMPY

POSING WITH MOMMY AT PARTY FOR BABY ETHAN PERLYN

What an AMAZING trip we had to Florida for Thanksgiving! We were so lucky to have two whole weeks with Zia Micol and Alex who came all the way from London, Nonno and Nonna who came from Milan, several days with Zio Jasone and Aunt Allison - as well as all our "usuals" - Uncle Steven, Julie, Great-Grampy Zoom, Mimi & PA, MJR clan, Omi and Big Al, the Cohens and all people related to the Cohens, who did I forget? My dear friend Emma and her beautiful 3 kids too! So sorry to have missed out on catching up with friends (Adriana! Michelle! Barb!) but we were running constantly with family and trying hard to make up for lost time with Gioel's family from overseas who we dont get to see often.

CLICK HERE to see all the pics from Thanksgiving.

Video at the park

2008-12-02T01:34:00.001-05:00

P1000278
Originally uploaded by ronni912

Here is Luca climbing on the playground out front of our apartment. It was a nice autumn day before the weather got too cold.

Luca eats his first truffle

2008-11-15T00:09:00.002-05:00

As a belated anniversary celebration Gioel bought white truffles for us. We also thought it would be a good opportunity to test Luca's adventurous palette. He is quite daring and willing to try new things - earlier this week we took him out to lunch and ordered him a kiddie burger and fries. He didnt want to eat his food - instead he wanted to try my mussels in saffron broth. We ended up trading dishes. I ate his meal and he ate mine in its entirety.

Tonight we had handmade tagliatelle with butter, parmeggiano and the shaved truffles. Here is a video of Luca tasting his first truffle...

Truffles from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

Daddy and Luca discussing cars

2008-11-11T00:27:00.001-05:00

Italian Conversation with Luca from Ellen Fleisher on Vimeo.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-05T23:15:00.003-05:00

Luca was a race car driver for Halloween. An obvious choice for his costume since he is pretty much obsessed with cars, motors, wheels, racing and speed...

He went to a Halloween party in the park for lunch. The weather was beautiful. We trick or treated in our building later in the day. One of the pictures here shows him trick or treating with Grandma and meeting some other characters. He was a little stunned by their strange costumes!

Playing in Daddy's helmet

Trick or Treat practice with Grandma

2008-11-05T23:05:00.000-05:00

Trick or Treat Test Run from ronni Molinari on Vimeo.

Chicago Trip

2008-10-15T10:06:00.000-04:00

We're FINALLY uploading the pictures from the past couple months - its been so busy with our recent move and delayed internet hook-up in the apartment I got too sidetracked and forgot to post a few different events on the blog.

Mid-October we went to Chicago for Mat & Tara's wedding. They were married at the beautiful Arboretum.

Of course we couldn't visit Chicago without quality time with our favorite Chi-towners, the Bonecks. Maddy and Luca had a blast playing together at home and during a trip to the Zoo.

CLICK HERE to see the rest of our pictures...

Luca reading letters

2008-10-05T20:58:00.003-04:00

Luca was reading the side of a box tonight and I actually had the camera right next to me so I quickly taped the tail end of his session. He loves the Letter Factory games and DVDs - that is where he learned the "B says Buhh, O says ohhh, etc". (Thanks again Barbara for that refrigerator LF puzzle - he has been playing with that a lot over the past year and it definitely helped him learn his letters!)

CLICK HERE if the video doesn't show up in your email...