Showing posts with label Vienna. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vienna. Show all posts

Friday, February 4, 2011

Memories of Oma

My wonderful Oma passed early this morning in Vienna. She was 90 years old and around 9 am she stopped breathing. The funeral was done soon after in order to have it done before shabbos, so many family members were not able to make it.
I have posted about her a few months ago. And just a few weeks ago, on my visit to Vienna I got to see her for the last time. I don't know if she knew I was there but I spend some time just sitting with her on a few different occasions so that her care taker could have a break. The last time I went, when I said good-bye, she opened her eyes for the first time. She looked at me although I do not know if she really saw me.
I have been thinking a lot about mourning not the grandmother of the past few years who was merely a shell of the vibrant, loving person I knew. Rather I am mourning the Oma of my childhood, the Oma who was a constant presence when I was growing up.
So, this weekend, I am planning on sharing lots of memories with my husband and children. I want them to get to know her and I want to remind myself of all the wonderful times we shared. I hope it will bring me comfort and meaning. Yehi zichra baruch.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Happy Birthday Baby M

Today is my little baby's second birthday. Although he is not so little anymore. He is turning into a big boy- one who loves Elmo, Ernie and Uncle Moishy and who says the funniest things in his little squeaky voice. He is mischievous and a troublemaker and has the greatest smile. The kids adore him and he loves them too, especially his big brother Y. I love the way they hug and greet each other each day when Y comes home from school. I cannot imagine our family without him.
For those of you who like to read birth stories, you can find it here.
In other news, it was raining and too warm today for skiing because everything was wet so we were not able to go skiing. So I spent some more time walking around the center of town which I love and, of course, shopping. The truth is, I haven't even bought that much, I just like to look.
Can't believe tomorrow is Friday already. Am definitely enjoying myself but am also looking forward to going home to New York on Sunday....ready or not, here I come.

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Vienna Update

I have been remiss about blogging since I got here, partially because I am jet lagged and also because we have been busy relaxing here :)
First of all, the flight was really smooth. Flying with one child, especially a cooperative one, is definitely easier than flying with three. I also took a carseat along for the plane which I HIGHLY recommend doing. M is at that age when he has a hard time sitting still. The seat ensured that he was sitting safely for take off and landing and also made it more comfortable for him to sleep.
I have spent most of the time here going for walks (have I mentioned how much I love just walking around the city?), shopping (great sales!) and chatting with family and friends. I also visited my Oma twice and stayed for an hour so her caretaker could go out for a bit. Unfortunately, she is not aware that I am there, as she sleeps most of the time and doesn't really open her eyes. My husband says I should take a picture of her with M but I don't know if I want to remember her looking like this.
Today I was pampered a bit when I went for a facial and shoulder massage. Then we celebrated M's second birthday (which is actually tomorrow-wow!) with a little party. My aunts and cousins came over for home-made pizza, fries and cake. Kudos for my mom for putting it all together and making all the yummy food.
Tomorrow I am planning to go skiing with my Dad. I have not skied since I have been married or possibly even longer which means maybe 7 years or more. But there is a place an hour away and I figured- why not? Who knows when the next opportunity will present itself to ski. Probably never. I hope it's like riding a bike, something you don't forget.
On the NY front, the kids and hubby are doing well. Everyone is dressed and fed, goes to school and goes to bed on time. My husband has told me has been getting lots of accolades from the other moms in A's class for being such a great Dad. And he definitely deserves them. We have been skyping every day which has been really great because we get to see each other and not just talk on the phone.
Soon enough I will be back to reality but for now I am enjoying my little break from regular life. Anyone else planning any vacations or escapades anytime soon?