Henry Goes to the Beach

Lindsay Bell — Wed, 23 Jul 2014 11:16:51 +0000

Every summer for over twenty years I have gone “Up North” to Harbor Springs, Michigan. Spending summers there is something I am very grateful for. I’ve made new friends over the years, catch up with old friends, experience new things, and, in most recent years, spend extended time with my family. This experience has become even more special since Henry has come into the picture.

Our family.. plus a little too much ice cream

Living in Chicago comes with many advantages. There’s an abundance of culture, people, and endless amounts of “things to do.” However, it can also be very busy, overly structured, fast-paced, and stressful. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE CHICAGO, but taking a break every summer is awesome!

Henry relaxing and enjoying a nice snack on the beach

Last summer was the first summer Henry was exposed to parts of my childhood. It was fun–he learned to walk, ate sand for the first time, and dipped his toes in the Michigan side of Lake Michigan. This summer is even better! Henry is sturdy on his feet and has said new words like “beach”, “watermelon”, “boat”, and “bug-gy.” His eyes light up when he realizes he’s on his way to the beach. He’s not afraid of the water, loves to chase the birds, and has tripled his vocabulary since arriving. I’m thankful for this time and sharing these new experiences with him.

Our little man goes kayak shopping

I am also grateful for my husband. Without his hard-work, understanding, and love for his wife and child, we would not be able to spend such a long period of time in Michigan. We are grateful when “dada” can be with us, but appreciate the sacrifices he makes so we can spend extensive time at the beach. We love you, Dada (Bob!). Henry is also lucky that he gets to spend a week in South Haven, Michigan with his Chicago family. He is surrounded by people who love him and want him to be part of old family traditions. Sharkball, Lobster Parties, and dipping your toes in the lake aren’t a bad way to spend your summer!

We’re so blessed in our life and look forward to all the new experiences and memories we will create as he gets older.

Happy Summer!

-Maureen is a Sitter2Mom, a working woman (our Chicago City Coordinator), and mother of Henry!

Twas the Night Before Christmas Part 3

Alison Gore — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 17:51:55 +0000

Turning back the hands of time for me during the holidays means special memories of my childhood that have then developed into my children’s memories through traditions and storytelling. I’ve shared with you my mother-in-law’s chocolate pie and I’d like to share one more from my grandmother. As a child, every Christmas Eve I would anxiously await the arrival of Grandma and Grandpa Smith.

Merry Christmas from the Bells!

They’d come in with big smiles carrying presents and piles of plastic containers filled with Christmas goodies. Straight to the laundry room counter they would go. There was extra room there. My brothers and I would take turns sneaking into the room to get cookies. She made the best nutroll. She taught me how to make them and I have continued the tradition with the help of my kids. I’d love to share the recipe but it’s a pretty long recipe, so try this simple but yummy butter cookies recipe instead which you can make with your lil’ darlings.

Christmas Butter Cookies

3/4 cups butter, softened

1/4 cup sugar

1 1/2- 2 cups flour

Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in as much flour as the beaters can handle. Roll out dough and have fun with your cookie cutters. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes.

-Merry Christmas from all the Bells! And to All a Good Night!

New York Nanny Center » tradition

Henry Goes to the Beach

Twas the Night Before Christmas Part 3