Milestones

First Snow

2012-01-26T00:07:00.001-05:00

With the first snow of the season still lingering on the sidewalks, the boys and their father decided to pay a visit to the Avalon Theatre Cafe for a warm hot chocolate treat. The perfect respite from the cold.

1 for 1

2012-01-17T17:10:00.001-05:00

Though it is admittedly early in his baseball career, Miles is currently batting 1000% with one hit on one attempt at the plate. The historic event transfixed the small crowd of die hard Homerun baseball lesson fans gathered in the new Woodrow Wilson High School gym. The league anxiously awaits his next at bat.

The Missing Piece

2012-01-17T17:08:00.001-05:00

Close observers of this photo will no doubt notice something missing from Gideon's crib. It is the sliding gate that once (together with the aid of a crib tent) kept Gideon safely confined inside his bed at night. Now that it is gone and Giddy can come and go as he pleases something else is missing too. That would be a good night sleep for his parents.

Gideon's Smile

2012-01-13T21:10:00.001-05:00

Gideon has twenty teeth. And if you don't believe him, just ask Dr. Nevins. He will also tell you how well behaved his patient was upon the occasion of his very first trip to the dentist.

Happy 2012!

2012-01-04T17:21:00.003-05:00

If the editors here at Milestones can report on Thanksgiving deep into the month of December, surely they can be forgiven for noting the new year just a few days late. Especially if we can offer you a shot of the boys in their new year's finest. Steelers garb courtesy of Grandma and Pap-Pap; bling, hats and bugles by Nana.

X-Mas in Paradise

2012-01-03T21:08:00.009-05:00

Like a flock of birds seeking warmer climes, if not a more restful sleeping environment, the family inaugurated a new winter time tradition and traveled south to Miami Beach for the holidays. We arrived right on schedule - and patiently awaited the arrival of our luggage.

The family shared an intimate room at the beautiful Loews Hotel. At least one of us was able to get some sleep.

The pool was where most of the action took place. Giddy splashed and kicked. Miles swam, and when he emerged from the water he visited a face painter who happened to set up shop nearby.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs may not be on everyone's beach reading list, but it certainly is on Giddy's. And anyone else who happens to be recruited to read it to him.

Who had fun in Miami? (You're an old woman.)

Before the long flight back to cold DC, Miles was invited to the cockpit to visit with the pilots. Once again, it was a good holiday season to let Miles be your co-pilot.

Gideon Enters Toddlerhood

2011-12-28T19:57:00.009-05:00

Astute readers will have noted that a pretty major milestone passed a few days ago without mention. It did not go without notice, however. Gideon's third birthday was celebrated in the traditional fashion - many cheerful children, bagel's & lox, cake and, of course, a performance by the one and only Great Zucchini.

The standing-room only performance was followed by a formal sit-down brunch, complete with a series of juice box toasting with Mimi.

Gideon's request for the cake: the evil queen from Snow White. Some prodding won him over to include Snow White as well. Good and evil never tasted so good.

Giddy's Shabbat

2011-12-21T15:21:00.002-05:00

Another Shabbat, another Shabbat boy. Not to be outdone by his brother's successful Shabbat-hosting, Gideon took to the Shabbat limelight with aplomb. The book he chose was The Tiger Who Came to Tea, of course, and both Nana and Poppy attended the happy occasion.

Here Gideon proudly distributes the ritual challah to Puppies and teachers alike. Photos courtesy of Nana.

Tree Climber

2011-12-16T21:47:00.006-05:00

The new house came with a backyard perfect for adventurous nature walks. Miles enjoys taking visitors on expansive tours of the property. Perhaps his favorite part of the terrain is his clubhouse under the magnolia tree. The web of branches creates a nice place to ascend.

Cousins Eating Ice Cream at Nana and Poppy's

2011-12-16T21:44:00.006-05:00

I think the title describes this scene fairly well. A too-rare occurrence: the Big Six seated in the booth enjoying a frozen treat. The central point of conversation: Gideon's unique style of consuming ice cream on a stick.

Shabbat Boy

2011-12-16T21:41:00.008-05:00

Every day is special for Miles - imagine if your every move was loving and faithfully recorded by a tireless and selfless scribe. But he is even more special when he is Shabbat Boy at the Gan. The event drew his parents, brother Giddy and even Poppy to the Zaytim class.

After the family (plus Max) said the prayers, Miles generously distributed the challah to his classmates and teachers.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-16T21:37:00.005-05:00

The family decided to stay close to home this Thanksgiving instead of making the annual pilgrimage to Greensburg. A difficult time was made easier by family and feasting - fortunately Miles and Gideon know how to baste a turkey.

Grandma Ellie

2011-12-16T21:22:00.005-05:00

Milestones is a record of Miles and Gideon's happy days growing up in Washington, but not every day can be happy. We must report some sad news - the loss of their wonderful Grandma Ellie this November. Grandma Ellie was an amazing person and a loving mother, grandmother and great-mother. She was lucky to see her five grandchildren grow into adults and to know each of her seven great-grandchildren, and they were all very lucky to have had the chance to know her.

She will be missed and remembered.

Play Gym of Their Own

2011-12-16T21:19:00.005-05:00

Perennial bargain hunters, Miles and Gideon's parents know a good deal when they see one. And buying a play gym in November is just plain smart. Fortunately, a mild fall and winter have enabled the boys to get some immediate gratification out of the fantastic new recreation activity in the back yard. It also makes for a great home base if you find yourself playing Gargamel and the Smurfs for two or three hours.

Sitting on the Table

2011-12-16T21:17:00.005-05:00

That is something that the boys are not supposed to do. Much less doing a little jig and throwing loaves of challah. But that is exactly what they are up to in this short video captured by their aghast father.

What would their mother say if she saw them doing this? We won't tell if you won't!

Halloween 2011

2011-12-12T23:44:00.002-05:00

It only seems like the activity here at Milestones has ground to a halt. In fact, there is much to report just little time to share it. We can't let a Halloween pass without updating our loyal readers about the night's activities. It was filled with friendly monsters and a miniature giant bird.

I Hate Butterflys

2011-10-21T11:39:00.001-04:00

Long-time readers will remember the bucolic image of Miles's first trip to the butterfly exhibit at the Smithsonian. It was a magical scene when a lovely butterfly gently descended upon Miles's head and for a moment the boy was at one with the natural world.

Not quite the same moment when another butterfly chose Gideon as his perch. I believe the young man told the butterfly to "go away," before announcing his dislike for the entire species.

The Boys on the Stoop

2011-10-17T16:40:00.005-04:00

Where have the boys been for the past month? Right where we left them - it is their father who has been on a tour of the coasts the past few weeks. But the gang is now happily reunited and all-a-twitter at their beloved father's return. The boys on the stoop are a welcome sight for a weary traveler.

Another Day Another Park

2011-09-24T15:03:00.001-04:00

The boys and their dashing father descended on Chesapeake Park today to see what they could see. Before long the boys both ended up on the playhouse roof. And oh what they could see see see from up there!

Back to School

2011-09-14T21:00:00.001-04:00

The boys are back...to school, that is. After a long not very restful summer, Miles and Gideon are ready to once again hit the books. Gideon is a Puppy and Miles is a Zaytim - or olive for the Hebrew deficient. There is rejoicing in the land!

Homerun Baseball

2011-08-26T15:38:00.000-04:00

The summer time is too special for just one camp - Miles this year followed up his Beauvoir experience with a two-week slide into baseball training with Coach Mac. Here he mastered his stance and worked on his swing.

Lounged on the bleachers with his partner in crime, Max.

And, yes, Gideon was in attendance eating peanuts and cracker jack - or any other crunchy carbs he could get his mitts on.

Kitchen Boxes

2011-08-26T15:31:00.000-04:00

The family has settled in nicely to our new home, however, stray boxes do still poplute the corners of some rooms. Notably, the dining room has served as a holding cell for most of our kitchen equipment as we await the much anticipated grand renovation. Meanwhile, it makes some cooking difficult when key pieces can't be found. Fortunately, Gideon is on the case.

Droid!

2011-08-26T15:27:00.000-04:00

While there is a lot of excitement about the iPhone 5, it is pretty clear where this family's loyalty lies with respect to the mobile operating system landscape!

MMM: Grandma Ellie's B-day Bash

2011-08-19T14:25:00.002-04:00

Join us, if you will, Milestone readers for another trip to a Missed Milestone Moment: Grandma Ellie's birthday bash in April at Nana's house. Grandma Ellie's birthdays are always special occasions, but the day was doubly special for the presence of the very newest cousin to hit the scene: Jenna. Shakir and Hasnae introduced Jenna to Miles, Gideon, Sydney and Eli as Elena, Andrea and Yusif looked on with pride.

First the cousins assembled in assorted vehicles for the ritual road race down Nana and Poppy's driveway, the scene of many such contests over the years. Here Jenna takes an early lead.

Miles, on foot, engages in a contest with Eli, aboard a scooter.

Sydney and Gideon took a slower route down the hill.

Finally it was time for the singing - the group gathered around the family matriarch on the porch.

And then the younger celebrants were banished to the booth to enjoy their just desserts in a less formal atmosphere.

Poppy popped in for seconds before the group bid adieu.

Cunningham Falls

2011-08-18T17:07:00.002-04:00

The boys' father has long been known for his outdoorsman-like rugged good looks, but the perception is, frankly, a fraud. A nice hotel room is more his speed. So it was with some trepidation that he agreed to participate in a father-child camping trip with Miles, Uncle Scott, Sydney and Eli and an assorted cast of DC Wilson Tiger alum. First, Miles had to test out the new family tent...

Gideon's age and fear of tents precluded his attendance at this first annual camping tradition. However, he was thrilled to participate in a dry-run in the basement with his mother and brother...

Sadly, the tent did not make it to the trip, as it was broken in pieces just a few days prior to the outing. This did not bode well. However, Keir (aka Chiefy) came prepared with an extra tent with plenty of room for three (including Bear).

The location, Cunningham Falls State Park, was perfect aside from the 100 degree plus weather. Fortunately plenty of cold drinks and a prolonged ice-chomping session with Jack Steinitz kept the campers cool.

The hardy hikers vowed to return next year, perhaps earlier or later in the season to avoid heat stroke.

Rehoboth Rewind: Catching Crabs

2011-08-17T16:38:00.002-04:00

But wait...one more message from our trip to Rehoboth before we close the books on this memorable vacation.

Here Gideon provides an update on the effort to apprehend sand crabs on the Delaware shore. Please note, no sand crabs were harmed while filming this short.

Rehoboth Parting Shots

2011-08-17T16:37:00.001-04:00

In sum, the trip to Rehoboth was a success. A few parting shots to conclude this Missed Milestone Moment montage.

Pirates of Lewes Beach

2011-08-17T16:29:00.001-04:00

It is an historic fact that pirates once frequented the Delaware shore. Our two stars sought them out on a pirate excursion from Lewes Beach during our summer 2011 vacation. Frankly, it was hard to tell if a few of the pirate staff were acting or not. Gideon has his opinion. Aye-aye, matey.

Funland Revisited

2011-08-17T16:23:00.001-04:00

Long before the boys were even a glimmer in their father's beautiful blue eyes, he visited Funland with his brothers off the Rehoboth board walk. Back in the 80s, it was the USA vs. USSR hockey game that drew most of the attention - these days, long after the end of the Cold War, it is the kiddy rides that attracted our young stars.

Rehoboth Calling

2011-08-17T16:11:00.001-04:00

Loyal readers know that summer time means a trip to Cape Cod for the young family. However, this year the Cape was a trip too far and a closer beach was our destination for July 4th. The boys adapted well to the Rehoboth sand and surf and perhaps a new summer tradition was born.

First a look at the sand and sea...

MMM: The White House

2011-08-15T14:33:00.001-04:00

Another memorable Missed Milestones Moment, this one from way back in March.

Miles and his cousins, courtesy of Nana, paid a visit to the White House one chilly day in March. The cousins enjoyed the experience and fortunately none of the White House china was damaged during the visit.

MMM: Last Day of School Party

2011-08-15T11:51:00.002-04:00

Moving - and life with our two heros - has slowed down the blogging efforts here at Milestones. But it is worth looking back for a moment, though we corrupt our chronological reporting, to pay notice to Miles's end of school party with the Rectangle Class. Better late than never. This is another installment of your Missed Milestone Moments...

The Rectangle's gathered in June for a grand celebration in honor of the school year past. First a look at the teachers that made it all possible - Espy, Dwyane, and Sue.

Miles and his good friend Alyssa.

Bidding adieu to some of the Rectangle girls. Here Miles and Alyssa are joined by Mirabelle and Shayna.

The boys engaged in a final crash-up derby. Here Miles, Jake and Andrew give Alex a push.

Gideon, no fool, made for the kitchen and slinked off with the box of Entenman cookies. He was caught in the act and forced to share a few with his father.

Summer 'dos

2011-08-15T11:33:00.002-04:00

Camillo's has been a family tradition for well over twenty years - so when Miles and Gideon strolled in for a trim earlier this summer they were welcomed like royalty. And you can see from the before and after photos that they boys emerged more glamorous than ever.

Popkin Number Three

2011-08-15T11:28:00.001-04:00

File this under Missed Milestone Moments: Miles and his father joined Nana and Poppy for the drive to Connecticut to attend the June bar mitzvah celebration of Ben Popkin. Here Miles joins Sydney and Eli on the bench outside temple. They weren't smiling this broadly during the service.

Hanging Around

2011-08-15T11:25:00.001-04:00

Gideon has always loved to hang around. His new hangout is the park down the street. As you can see, he has been working out.

Lazy Days of Summer

2011-08-15T11:22:00.001-04:00

The lazy days of summer are not quite as lazy as they used to be - but the boys are willing to camp out in bed (ours) when they arise with the summer sun in our blind-less new home.

CC 2X

2011-08-06T14:26:00.005-04:00

Observant Milestoners will notice something strange about this portrait of Gideon in his new living quarters. No, you are not seeing double - there are two CC's currently living under the same roof. To make a long story short, one CC never made it back from our Florida vacation. Two CC's were delivered by Amazon to ensure a back up. One was lost at the doctor's and quickly replaced. And wouldn't you know it - but CC #2 magically reappeared! And that is why we now enjoy the company of CC and Saw-Saw.

Fortunately, there remains just one and only Bear.

Hall Monitor

2011-08-06T14:22:00.002-04:00

While walking down the hallway between bedrooms in our new home, you may come across a little hall monitor. Don't be alarmed, he is easily appeased and is unlikely to report you.

Summer Fun

2011-07-29T14:39:00.000-04:00

Summer time means spending long afternoons at the pool with friends. Here the boys are joined in the baby pool by brothers-in-arms Elon and Jacob. Adult swim has its advantages.

Gideon Contained

2011-07-16T16:18:00.001-04:00

You can't stop Gideon, you can only hope to contain him. And that is why his father installed a secure crib tent upon the family's return from the beach.

Happy Campers

2011-06-28T18:11:00.004-04:00

Now that school is over Miles and members of his gang have crossed Connecticut Avenue to attend day camp. So far the campers are loving the new setting. But the happiest moment by far is when Gideon arrives with mom for pick up.

Shopping Cart Boys

2011-06-28T18:05:00.004-04:00

Ensconced in their new home it was time for the boys to pay a visit to the neighborhood grocery store. Happily our local Giant boasts state of the art car-shaped shopping carts. Fortunately Bear and CC were there to share the experience if not the pastries that followed.

A Home of Their Own

2011-06-14T17:40:00.003-04:00

Moving into a new house is exciting - and time consuming. Hence the great delay in posting. But, faithful followers, at long last the young family is prepared to put down some serious roots. But before the planting, there was the investigating. Miles and Gideon, sensing that their parents had temporarily lost control of the housing situation, decided to take matters in hand and check out the prospective place personally.

Here they are before the deal was done. At the front door.

And in the flower bed outside the front window to the den.

And now for those roots. What better way to lay claim to the land then to plant an herb garden? On the front lawn, no less. Yes, neighbors, the boys have arrived!

Chevy Chase Farewell Part Two

2011-05-14T22:36:00.005-04:00

Too many memories on Fairfax Road for just one farewell montage. A few more for the scrapbook...

Let's roll, Giddy.

Chevy Chase Farewell

2011-05-14T22:01:00.004-04:00

There is big news afoot here at Milestones. Soon the young family will bid adieu to their temporary but comfortable digs over the border and make their long anticipated return to the District of Columbia. That is right, Milestoners. The long family nightmare of transitory living since the October departure from Capitol Hill is neigh. But first, fond memories of our time in Chevy Chase...

Florida 2011: Parting Water Shots

2011-05-14T21:30:00.005-04:00

Passover 2011 is now in the record books. But before we move on, here are a few final shots of this year's edition of a memorable tradition. Moses parted the Red Sea; in recognition, the Milestones crew stayed close to the water.

But before the splash, here is a quick look at our two stars enjoying the Seder.

Giddy banished to the baby pool at Islands West makes the best of a shallow situation.

Miles and his father brave the bay on a banana boat before capsizing in the frothy seas. Fortunately they were rescued soon after and did not even lose a hat.

Miles and Carly take on opposing cousins in Mikes' pool. Then Miles raises his water weapon (an afikomen treat!) in victory.

Giddy and his father pose in front of the Gulf. Next year in...Sarasota.

Florida 2011: The Cousins

2011-05-14T21:05:00.006-04:00

The beach, sun, pool and matzoh brei are big draws for Passover in Sarasota, but ultimately it is about the cousins and extended family. Miles and Gideon make sure to log plenty of quality time with their cousins when spending time in the Sunshine State.

Miles and Carly relax in the grass outside Islands West.

Sydney gives Miles a boost in the same location.

The Gang of Six gather after gorging on Nana's famous matzoh brei.

Volleyball on the beach at sunset cannot be beat.

And, of course, the classic pre-Seder shot...with the missing cousin just a few feet away.

Special Delivery

2011-05-08T10:32:00.002-04:00

We interrupt this series of Florida 2011 posts with a special delivery and even more special announcement: Happy Mother's Day!!

Florida 2011: Beach Bums

2011-05-06T14:11:00.004-04:00

It is fitting that when the family gathers each year to recall the great Exodus from Egypt through the desert sands of the Sinai, we spend much of the time in the sands of Long Boat Key beach. It is worth asking if our ancestors struggled as much as their descendants do with the problem of removing sand from their swim suits and persons. A timeless travail for sure.

Some shots of the boys enjoying the surf, sun and sand.

Disney World 2011: Day Two at the Animal Kingdom

2011-05-03T22:48:00.011-04:00

The group arose at dawn the next day for their magical safari at the Animal Kingdom. Of course, there was no real need to wake up quite so early for this safari - you are pretty much guaranteed to see all of the animals no matter what time you take the 15 minute tour - but this group did not want to take any chances.

The safari was a great success - we even spotted an enormous duck decked out in safari garb.

And the characters kept on coming - delighting Miles and frightening Giddy.

More friends were acquired.

Rafiki reenacted his famous role with Miles's own baby Simba.

And the boys then had an opportunity to pose with everyone's favorite giant cricket.

After two long successful days at the park it is nice to lay back, reflect on new friends and old and prepare for part two of Florida Adventure 2011.

Disney World 2011: Characters & Slides (Day One continued)

2011-05-03T22:41:00.011-04:00

We learned a few things at lunch with Winnie the Pooh and Friends. Among the most memorable and important was that Gideon is not too keen on the characters. Any of them. Unfortunately, this mortal fear did not dissipate during the lunch as the characters each came happily parading by our table to screams of "NO!!!!". But Miles seemed to enjoy the procession and pretty soon it was like greeting old friends.

At the end of a long half-day, the weary crew heads home on their trusty Wilderness Lodge yacht no worse for wear and tear.

Meanwhile, back at the hotel pool, Gideon takes a dip with his mother and Miles slides. And slides and slides.

Disney World 2011: Day One at the Magic Kingdom

2011-05-03T22:17:00.009-04:00

What do you do when you've lived in three different places over six months, have all of your earthly goods in storage and narrowly survived a long winter of multiple ear infections, a few cases of strep throat, and even a rare bout of mono? You go to Disney World!

And so the young family did. First embarking on the Magic Disney Express bus from the airport straight to the Wilderness Lodge.

And then onto the motor boat from the Wilderness Lodge to the Magic Kingdom...

Next alighting in a fairy tale carriage drawn (pushed) by two adoring parents up Main Street, USA.

(Bumping into a friendly character along the way.)

Before taking off on the famed Dumbo flying elephant ride.

Next it was a leisurely stroll through Winnie the Pooh's garden.

And then some quality time heckling Alice outside the Spinning Tea Cups.

Before lunch, Miles picked up a special friend and the family posed for the memorable shot in front of the palace.

Next edition: Lunch with characters...

Home Run Miles

2011-04-11T11:48:00.001-04:00

H is for home run. And Miles just dinged one out of the park while visiting old Puppy class friends in their new home in the 'burbs.

The Only Living Boy(s) in New York

2011-04-11T11:14:00.003-04:00

Forgive the mixed up order, but Milestones were recorded in New York but left unmentioned. In recognition of their mother's appreciation for the song, here is the only living boy in New York.

And here is the other.

Giddy Up, Cow boy

2011-04-04T12:17:00.004-04:00

With Miles at school and the weather improving, Gideon made his way to the National Zoo for a morning outing. First stop on the tour was the barnyard cows - and like a real cowpoke he would not leave their side for any inducement his mother could offer. At this rate the duo will reach the new elephant enclosure about the time it actually opens to the public.

Weekend in Westport

2011-03-29T17:21:00.003-04:00

Having missed most of the action due to winter ailments when the cousins came down from Connecticut a few weeks ago, the boys decided to take their show on the road and visit Westport for the weekend. Activities ranged from ice cream on a chilly evening, to 1 on 1 soccer, to a visit to the local aquarium and, of course, plenty of playing "baby." Enjoy the montage...

Duck Pin Gideon

2011-03-29T16:17:00.002-04:00

Celebrating your cousin's birthday is always fun, but it is even better when it is at a Star Wars-themed bowling party! Gideon got into the action immediately and took to the sport as if he was born to play. Catch a glimpse of Gideon in action, speed bowling at Eli's February birthday party.

Weekend Black and White Out

2011-03-14T09:35:00.001-04:00

There are many great things about our temporary MD digs - one of these is its close proximity to a first rate bakery. When asked to choose a treat after a Saturday afternoon stroll, Miles opted for the classic black and white cookie. A coincidence that it was far and away the largest item in stock? We think not.

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Miles Swims Again

2011-03-03T16:12:00.003-05:00

Longtime readers may recall Miles's first attempt at swim lessons way back in the fall of 2007. Or more accurately, swim lesson. It was time to try again. So sporting a new bathing suit and with his proud mother in tow, Miles eagerly got back into the water. As you can see, the results are much improved.

Moving On (and Out)

2011-02-21T21:24:00.004-05:00

The actual dates remain in contention and the particulars are even now beginning to fade from memory, but one thing is beyond dispute: the boys and their parents moved into Nana and Poppy's house for a spell in the fall/winter of 2011. That crowded epoch has now ended.

The damage to the wallpaper was minimal yet noted. The ground-in food will one day be steamed from the carpets. The crumbs will vanish from the kitchen (save the morsels wedged into the cushions of the booth - those won't be going away for some time). The likely water damage (yet to be discovered!) from raucous bath time antics, too, will one day be repaired and forgotten. And even now, just days after their departure, the echos of children's screams are fast fading. But the memories will last a lifetime!

Thank you, Nana and Poppy, but we must be on our way...to our new (temporary) rented digs across the District line. Come and visit soon!

Boys in a Basket

2011-02-21T21:12:00.002-05:00

The boys have logged many hours in Nana and Poppy's basement. Though the space might seem a bit constricted to an outside observer, the boys managed to keep themselves occupied most of the time. And some times they occupied a constrictive basket.

Bringing Shabbat

2011-02-21T21:05:00.003-05:00

The generations comingled - and posed - in the sanctuary during a lull in Shabbat sing. This was the day that Miles's family "brought Shabbat" to the Rectangle class. Next year, Giddy will cooperate.

But before the singing, there is the bringing...here Miles distributes challah to Nana and Poppy before taking his place at the head of the table on his special day.

Shabbat Shalom!

A Visit to Grandma Ellie's House

2011-02-21T20:59:00.003-05:00

There are always reasons to smile when the boys visit Grandma Ellie's. In the summer, there is the pool. In the winter, there are the long hallways to race down. And in every season there is a chance to hold hands and enjoy cookies.

Cooking with the Kittens

2011-02-21T20:53:00.001-05:00

As promised, here is a photo of Gideon's first foray into the Kitten class. Though a busy month and a half has passed, our hero is still getting accustomed to his new two-mornings a week home away from home. But lately he has started to get his groove back. You might say he is cooking with grease.

Strawberry Picking

2011-02-16T22:47:00.001-05:00

A bit of a blogging non sequitor, but please enjoy the following footage of Gideon dining on strawberries at Emmett's 4th birthday party on the Hill.

The editors promise a more regular posting schedule in the days to come with details of the family's new exciting whereabouts. Stay tuned, Milestoners, you will not believe where we are now encamped!

Herding Sheepdogs

2011-02-06T14:16:00.001-05:00

Sheepdogs are renowned for herding sheep - but who, you may wonder, herds the herders? When they are running loose in Nana's kitchen it is Miles and Gideon.

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Grapes with Poppy

2011-02-06T14:12:00.001-05:00

Sometimes life's daily events are eclipsed by Milestones. But it is important to catalog them just the same. One day we will look back and wonder, "did we really live at Nana and Poppy's that long?"

Yes, we did. And here is a photo of Gideon finishing a bowl of grapes with a loving and patient Poppy.

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Late Start

2011-01-18T12:04:00.001-05:00

The Milestones keep piling up faster than the editors can record them. Last week Gideon began his two-mornings a week class officially joining the ranks of the nation's student body. But before he left the house he was joined by his brother Miles for a quick communal rest, effectively hitting the snooze button. School photos to follow.

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Way Back Machine: Hanukkah 2010

2010-12-23T15:19:00.003-05:00

The Festival of Lights may have ended a few weeks ago, but we are still reliving the miracle of the oil here at Milestones! The family meal at Nana and Poppy's is a holiday tradition - and this year the commute for Miles, Gideon and parents was as easy as climbing down the stairs! More time for latkas and more time to open gifts!

Way Back Machine: A Visit to Greensburg for Thanksgiving

2010-12-23T14:53:00.003-05:00

In this edition of the Way Back Machine, we visit the boys on a late November, early December visit to Greensburg to visit Grandma and Pap-Pap for Thanksgiving. Even without Idlewild, Western PA never fails to entertain the boys. The train, drum set, tasty victuals (including juice boxes) and bedtime ritual were the usual highlights.

Way Back Machine: Halloween 2010

2010-12-23T14:31:00.002-05:00

The young family has been in prolonged period of transition of late - purgatory, some might say - from the time they sold their beloved Capitol Hill home until the present holiday-related pause in real estate transactions. The transitory lifestyle has hindered our ability to adequately capture the antics and Milestones of our two young heroes. While we do not possess a way back machine, or even an elementary time machine, we do have the ability to go back in time and update our loyal readers with some of the goings on of late.

This first edition covers Halloween 2010. Due to illness, this season's trick or treating was limited to Nana and Poppy's foyer. The pumpkin carving took place in their kitchen. Can you guess this year's costume theme? If you guessed "winged creatures" you would be right!

Gideon's Birthday in Images

2010-12-23T13:32:00.003-05:00

You heard the news, sent cards, made phone calls, showered the boy with gifts and accolades...now it is time to enjoy the photos of the birthday brunch. These shots should give you a good sense of the Big Day.

Almost as good as having Miles and the TP cousins join him was the brilliant image of CC on his birthday cake.

Gideon's Big Day

2010-12-20T17:55:00.001-05:00

Loyal readers know that December 18 is a very special day here at Milestones Media. Gideon's second birthday was the event of the crowded holiday season. The exclusive invite-only affair was held at Clyde's and attended by a close inner circle of family. The blogosphere will have to await actual photos of the event - they are embargoed naturally - but we couldn't allow too many days to pass without honoring our hero.

And many, many more, little Giddy.

Harmonica Man

2010-11-22T10:55:00.001-05:00

Nana came back from New Orleans bearing gifts. Among them, an alligator swamp thing T-shirt and a real harmonica. Miles is a prodigy, unsurprisingly, and always ends his brief performances on a high note and with a low bow. Clapping is mandatory.

He took his show on the road for Tuesday sharing at the Gan and provided musical accompaniment for the farewell song of the day. This piece is called the "Gan Cubby Blues."

Hoop Dreams

2010-11-21T17:24:00.001-05:00

A victorious Giddy cuts down the net (and even the rim) and triumphantly drapes it around his neck in Nana and Poppy's basement court. For good measure he grabbed the pole, too.

The Great Pumpkin

2010-11-05T18:18:00.002-04:00

The nomadic lifestyle is not conducive to blogging or much else - our apologies for the great lapse in updates. But we did manage to pay a visit to Butler's orchard for the annual fall festival. Looking for just the right pumpkin Miles suddenly had the sense that the prize he was seeking was under his nose. Behold - a gorgeous gourd for jack-o-lantering.

Some late additional photos of our day in the pumpkin patch...

Giddy Up, Miles!

2010-10-20T11:38:00.002-04:00

It's not every day that you can ride a horse wearing a shower cap with your Aunt Tiff down by a river - but then again, not every day is the Bedford Fall Foliage Festival!

Giddy up, Miles!

Smell the Roses

2010-10-11T12:19:00.003-04:00

With all of the transition, moving, and changes going on right now, it is important for the boys to slow down on occasion and take a look around. To smell the roses if you will. Here Giddy does just that. Before tearing the delicate flower into a thousand pieces.

State of Flux

2010-09-27T12:33:00.002-04:00

Don't let the lapse in updates lead you to conclude that things have slowed down here at Milestones hq. Quite the contrary. In fact a major life-altering Milestone is in process. Our house on the Hill is under contract and the family is in living space limbo, with an extended stay at Nana and Poppy's. All of the moving has our young stars wondering which way is up and which way is down. Soon all will be known.

A Muffin Before Class

2010-09-22T14:40:00.001-04:00

To celebrate Miles's return to school and evolution from puppy to rectangle, he and his father decided to splurge on a corn muffin before class. A happy start to a new education adventure.

Ice Cream Cousins

2010-09-12T15:25:00.003-04:00

Lining up in age and size order, the DC-area cousins enjoy a frozen treat while gathered on the porch of the Kreeger museum. The collection is impressive; getting all four cousins to pose for a photo is a masterpiece.

Greenberger in Paradise

2010-09-12T15:13:00.002-04:00

The open house festival at the Kreeger museum was a great opportunity to get out of the house, enjoy fine art and double fist frozen dessert treats. No doubt about it, this Greenberger was in paradise.

A Novel Approach

2010-08-29T10:07:00.001-04:00

Some people eat ice cream in cups using spoons. Others enjoy it in sugar or even cake cones. Gideon does things his own way: using his hand as a scooper. A novel and messy approach.

Super Baby

2010-08-22T22:58:00.003-04:00

Sometimes the job of feeding, cleaning, rearing, and raising the boys takes more than two able-bodied adults can muster. Sometimes it takes the strength of Super Baby to get the job done. He arrives without warning...

And exits after a job well done, usually back down the hallway from which he entered, cape flowing in the breeze. Thank you, Super Baby.

A Couple of Suckers

2010-08-22T22:42:00.003-04:00

Popsicles on the porch are a summer ritual on the Hill. If you are looking for Miles & Gideon when the mercury starts to rise, look no further than the stoop in front of the front door. A montage to keep you cool...

Idlewild 2010

2010-08-16T21:59:00.004-04:00

The boys arrive to Greensburg and they barely have time to unpack before they are back in the car headed to that Western PA mecca: Idlewild Park!

It is fun to place balls in the air blower. And even more fun to place the air blower up your shirt.

It is also fun to admire the gravel along the winding path through Storybook Forest.

The average reader would not be at fault for thinking this ballroom was at Idlewild...there is a ballroom at the park, but this one happens to be in Grandma's living room.

Meanwhile, back in Storybook Forest the boys pose with Grandma - and an enormous, rather frightening Jack-in-the-box.

Road Warriors

2010-08-16T21:53:00.003-04:00

Like all good Americans, the family enjoys little more than hitting the open road during the summer months. The boys are always good travelers, as long as they have plenty of toys, snacks, and juice boxes. And, most importantly, if the destination is Western PA to see Grandma and Pap-Pap.

Summer Sprinkler

2010-08-11T11:16:00.005-04:00

There is no better way to beat the intense DC summer heat than a romp through the sprinkler on Nana and Poppy's front lawn. Beware innocent passers-by: you will get wet if you linger too long watching the action.

But just as the lazy days of summer always come to an end too soon, so, too, does the sprinkler fun. And it is sad when it is time to head back inside.

Cape Cod Birding

2010-08-03T17:55:00.006-04:00

Taking a break from the unusually warm weather, Miles and family visited the local natural history museum to take in some birding. We are not sure what Miles saw in terms of the local ornithological inhabitants, but he did love using the binoculars!

Cape Cod Crashing

2010-08-03T17:45:00.007-04:00

Among the many activities enjoyed by the boys at the Cape, perhaps the most eventful was our family bike ride - Miles's first outing on a real bicycle. It began auspicious enough: the shop even had an orange bike on hand, Miles's favorite color! And Gideon kept his helmet on for nearly one minute before heaving it over board.

Miles cautiously pedaled his four-wheeled orange machine, slowing picking up steam and confidence.

But then things started to go down hill, ending up way down hill and into a thorn bush. Miles braved the experience and proudly showed off his wounds once the beleaguered family made it back up the trail with one orange bike and one upset toddler in tow.

Cape Cod Splashing

2010-08-03T17:37:00.005-04:00

Seems like weeks ago, and indeed it was, that the family headed north for their annual 4th of July Cape Cod vacation. To sum up: it was a nice getaway. Restful it was not. But the apple does not fall from the tree and the two boys took to the water like fish. Fish that tend to stay in very shallow waters.

Safe Scootering

2010-07-27T16:37:00.002-04:00

Long time fans will recall that Miles's earliest form of travel was the scoot. Well, life has come full circle as he now proudly mounts his own Radio Flyer scooter to travel to and from Lincoln Park.

As always, safety first is his motto and he responsibly dons helmet, knee pads and elbow pads regardless of the DC heat and humidity.

Father's Day 2010

2010-07-27T16:32:00.003-04:00

The Milestones editors continue to play catch up here at the Milestones headquarters, but the result, dear readers, is an opportunity for you to reminisce about weeks and holidays past. For instance, Father's Day.

How better to celebrate the hallowed occasion and honor the hard work and dedication of the esteemed head of the household than breakfast with the boy's at Pete's Diner?

Old Friends

2010-07-21T12:06:00.005-04:00

Gideon and Rebecca go as far back as they can remember. Old friends are comfortable just hanging out together, they need not fill quiet space with constant chatter. Sometimes they just look out the window, silently observing life on the Hill - and each other.

Soccer Daze: World Cup 2010

2010-07-20T17:18:00.002-04:00

Caught up in the global World Cup fever, Miles braved the early summer heat to embark on his first (semi-) organized sporting event - soccer lessons with a few of his Puppy friends. Long time readers will recall that swimming lessons did not go so...swimmingly...and the class was abandoned after one session. Well, we doubled our record this time around!

Though his attendance was lagging due to distance, vacations and oppressive heat, Miles's passion for the sport was clear. Get ready for years of soccer fun here at Milestones!

The Boys Are Back!

2010-07-20T14:26:00.003-04:00

After a long hiatus due to computer difficulties, the boys are back online! So what caused this Milestones blackout? I would like to blame this on our software provider, but in all fairness a spilled cup of water was found lying on top of the keyboard a while back and that seems to be when the trouble first started. Though we have no direct evidence, and they aren't talking, we do have two "people of interest" in this case. Much like a similar spill far to the south of here, the local inhabitants will be cleaning up this mess for some time.

A Momentous Birthday Party

2010-06-25T03:13:00.002-04:00

If you are having a birthday party on the Hill, there is a good chance that Miles and Giddy will show up to celebrate the occasion. This past weekend the boys climbed aboard the old Radio Flyer and made their way down the steamy street to Lincoln's second birthday party. En route, even Gideon commented on the high temperature - "Mama, it's hot!" - and in the process formed his very first sentence. The two boys partied outside with Lincoln and guests, blowing party horns and shooting squirt guns before saying their goodbyes and piling back in the wagon for the short ride home.

Barber Shop Duet

2010-06-17T15:10:00.003-04:00

With the temperature outside rising fast it was high time the boys returned to Camillo's for their summer cuts. Each boy patiently took their turn in the swivel chair and calmly submitted to the cutting of their gorgeous locks. We think you will like the results.

Puppy Farewells

2010-06-12T20:35:00.004-04:00

All good things must come to an end - and every end is a new beginning. Miles said goodbye to his Puppy friends and successfully completed his first year of organized education. It is a long road, but so far so good.

The day included a rousing Shabbat Sing finale dance number.

And finished with a special farewell to Doris, Frances, Candy and the Puppy classroom. Next year, a shape yet to be determined (Square/Rectangle/Triangle?).

Milestones

First Snow

1 for 1

The Missing Piece

Gideon's Smile

Happy 2012!

X-Mas in Paradise

Gideon Enters Toddlerhood

Giddy's Shabbat

Tree Climber

Cousins Eating Ice Cream at Nana and Poppy's

Shabbat Boy

Thanksgiving 2011

Grandma Ellie

Play Gym of Their Own

Sitting on the Table

Halloween 2011

I Hate Butterflys

The Boys on the Stoop

Another Day Another Park

Back to School

Homerun Baseball

Kitchen Boxes

Droid!

MMM: Grandma Ellie's B-day Bash

Cunningham Falls

Rehoboth Rewind: Catching Crabs

Rehoboth Parting Shots

Pirates of Lewes Beach

Funland Revisited

Rehoboth Calling

MMM: The White House

MMM: Last Day of School Party

Summer 'dos

Popkin Number Three

Hanging Around

Lazy Days of Summer

CC 2X

Hall Monitor

Summer Fun

Gideon Contained

Happy Campers

Shopping Cart Boys

A Home of Their Own

Chevy Chase Farewell Part Two

Chevy Chase Farewell

Florida 2011: Parting Water Shots

Florida 2011: The Cousins

Special Delivery

Florida 2011: Beach Bums

Disney World 2011: Day Two at the Animal Kingdom

Disney World 2011: Characters & Slides (Day One continued)

Disney World 2011: Day One at the Magic Kingdom

Home Run Miles

More New York Stories

The Only Living Boy(s) in New York

Giddy Up, Cow boy

Weekend in Westport

Duck Pin Gideon

Weekend Black and White Out

Miles Swims Again

Moving On (and Out)

Boys in a Basket

Bringing Shabbat

A Visit to Grandma Ellie's House

Cooking with the Kittens

Strawberry Picking

Herding Sheepdogs

Grapes with Poppy

Late Start

Way Back Machine: Hanukkah 2010

Way Back Machine: A Visit to Greensburg for Thanksgiving

Way Back Machine: Halloween 2010

Gideon's Birthday in Images

Gideon's Big Day

Harmonica Man

Hoop Dreams

The Great Pumpkin

Giddy Up, Miles!

Smell the Roses