A Brownie in our Midst

For the past two years, Big Sister has been an active participant in the Daisy Girl Scouting Program. I do not think there has been one activity, program, craft, adventure, or experience she has not enjoyed. Her first year as a Daisy, had her participating on an international level where she had the privilege of being invited to many Japanese Girl Scout sponsored events. It truly provided a worldly perspective on the Scouting program.

When we started school this fall, her first request was to sign her up for Daisy Scouts again as an extra-curricular activity. I was concerned as to what I perceived as a "grander" scouting experience and that she would not be as enthusiastic. No need for concern. She had a fabulous time selling the beloved Girl Scout cookies, competing in the Powder Puff Derby, and attending a Camporee. Earlier this week, the Moloko clan attended her "Bridging Ceremony." This signifies that she is eligible to move onto the next stage in the Girl Scouting Program. Big Sister is now a Brownie Girl Scout.

Just walked across the bridge
One happy Brownie

HALL MONITORS

Without fail, my three beautiful boisterous children never cease to amaze me. Especially when it comes to pointing out when each other does something wrong. I would like to think it is because of their strongly developed consciences. However, I do not think that was the case this afternoon. For some reason, they each decided THIS was the day to "rat", "tattle" and "inform" me of all wrongdoings. Let me just say for the record they were mere annoyances and all minor infractions.

About a year ago, my dear neighbor from Okinawa labeled the Moloko siblings as "HALL MONITORS." I have chuckled at that analogy and used it on occasion myself. Well, after about an hour of the shenanigans, I decided to do something I have never done before. The scolding technique did not seem to work, so, I took out the camera. I made them line up together to take their picture. They were baffled by this until I told them I was going to put it up on the blog!

INTRODUCING...MOLOKO HALL MONITORS

Cute, huh?

Big Sister's Purchase

Let's face it, My Twinn, American Girl and other dolls of that ilk, are a HUGE investment. Perhaps even a scam? However, it is what Big Sister along with most 5-10 year old girls dream of owning. I am always amazed at the marketing that is spent on these beloved 18-23" dolls. Outfits, accessories, books, furniture, and the list goes on. I have become rather savvy in my online searches for unique doll clothes made by others to fit these dolls at less expensive prices.

Over the past couple of months, Big Sister has been drooling over one outfit in particular made by a seamstress outside of Philadelphia. I stumbled upon her website by chance and just knew it would be an item Big Sister would want to add to the never-ending "wish list." It was a bit steep in price but so perfect! With some money she received from her First Communion, she asked if she could place the order. I consented.

Big Sister & Chrissa

Cinco, Go, FIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Little Dudes five years ago...


Present Day 2009...

Best of Buddies...

Happy Birthday Little Dudes!

Gone Fishin'

Fishing...not what one would initially associate with a Mother's Day activity. After a week of rain, the weather was picturesque and the kids were eager to do "something fun." Hubby was home for the first time in three years on Mother's Day, so a fishing expedition was planned. The Moloko Five headed to Lunga Reservoir in search of fun and fish. We rented a motor boat and spent three lazy hours out and about. We managed to find a quiet little spot and caught around seven fish which we released. It was a successful adventure and the enthusiasm and joy made it a wonderfully memorable Mother's Day. Definitely time well spent!

Little Dude M - First Catch of the Day

Big Sister & Fish

Moloko Gals

Such concentration

Way to go Little Dude B

Those are some smiles!

Little Dude M & Mom

Happy Mother's Day 2009

Shared Saturday

This past Saturday was a busy and momentous day in the Moloko household. Big Sister's First Holy Communion was held. This prompted great grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins to to travel from all over the United States to help mark this event in her sacramental journey of Catholic faith. Many relatives in attendance were also present at her Baptism which made the event even more extraordinary. No one could have prepared me for how quickly we would reach this milestone, a mere seven years after her birth.

Saturday, Hubby and I also celebrated our 11th Anniversary. We decided we needed to mark the day in some way, so, at 10pm, after all of our guests had retired to their various hotels or treks back home we headed out. Seeing as we had dessert with our guests, a sweet treat and a Starbucks trip was not an option...too late for coffee. Hubby was adamant we "do" something" so, we ventured to Wal*Mart. We actually had a good time browsing the aisles and chuckling at our impromptu Anniversary date.

Sunday Adventure

Spring-like weather has been sparse, so, when temps on Sunday promised to be in the 70's, we piled into the car and headed to Washington, DC. The Cherry Blossoms were to be at their peak and we figured it was worthy to carry on our Okinawan tradition of making a special trip to view the blossoms.

We were among the many throngs of people who too were in quest of the beautiful blossoms. The multitudes of white and pale pink blossoms along the scenic Mall did not disappoint. They were breathtaking which only enhanced an absolutely perfect afternoon. As we walked along the Mall, we managed to see the Navy Memorial, World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and finally the Lincoln Memorial.

The kids were great troopers as the hike from the Metro stop to the Lincoln Memorial was a haul. Little Dude B's response was definitely worth taping. He had high expectations from the books we have read and the many discussions we have had about President Lincoln.

Perhaps I was a little over zealous in "talking up" our adventure to see "Mr. Lincoln." I tried to tell him that President Lincoln had the best view in DC and he quickly retorted "He is not real Mom. He is made of stone." Something tells me that trying to sell Little Man B on another trip to the Lincoln Memorial will not be easy!