lilukids

Just a short note

2011-02-07T22:16:00.004+01:00

There are days like these, when my husband is on a business trip and I am at home all by myself. And I catch myself thinking about how lucky I am. I - honest to god - have no unsovleable issue with my husband. I have healthy kids. I have a life, friends and a career. And knowing that times will not always be this good I want to say that I worship it all. I love to be with my little family, I love to be with my husband and I love my life. Even if I could, there is not a single thing I would change. I wouldn't want to look different, live somewhere else or love someone else. That means I am a very very lucky girl - and I have to say that I experience all of this JUST BECAUSE I married the right man, the man my heart fell for. And I would very much advise all the single ladies out there to do the same. You only have one life to live. Go and get yourself the best man you can think of. Uwe, there are no words to describe how I feel about what you do to me, every day.

December 2010 - Christmas Dinner

2011-02-07T08:37:00.004+01:00

And then I got to cook the Christmas Dinner in front of a lot of people. A LOT. And days after people still mailed me about the recipe. It is nice to have feedback from time to time. As you can clearly see: I am a Thermomix girl :-)

My little man

2011-02-07T08:34:00.002+01:00

This guy is truly unbelievable. As soon as my husband is on the road he will climb in my bed in the middle of the night to be at my side. This is his face expresiion for: YEAH, made it once again. I love you, Ludwig.

December 2010 - Doing more things

2011-02-07T08:31:00.002+01:00

As the year went on my time spent on TV increased. Nicest part: I got to decorate the christmas tree twice this year. I did this one at the end of January and put the same decoration up on our family tree in December.

November 2010 - Doing things

2011-02-06T22:01:00.002+01:00

When I started what I now call "that thing on TV" I began to do a lot of things in front of a lot of people that I normally do on my own or with my family and friends. Well, during this process I started to realize that it is a gift to do things in front of 1.6 million people and be able to not even think about it because - hell, that is quite a big number. I can honestly say that the TV thing brought lots of fun and new opportunities my way - something I was yearning for after my little kids time - whoever has been there knows what I mean. Doing grown up things can be very fulfilling - even if it means playing with kids as always - just in front of the camera. Whoever helped me on my way: A heartfelt THANK YOU. It feels so much better to be back to the woman formerly known as Svenja. Follow my adventures at www.meinesvenja.de

October 2010 - Halloween in the Jungle

2011-02-06T21:50:00.005+01:00

As you might know, the end of October always is a little hectic at our house. Ludwig, my son, is born on the 28th of October. My daughter Lis at the 31st - which always ends up in a Halloween bash. Ludwig, already tired. But trick or treat got him running round and about later. The whole gang - and a lot of girls form Lissys new school.

My son asked for a jungle themed party. All in all, I crafted and painted a whole week to meet their expectations (high, as spoiled, partydecorationwise). But things turned out quite successful and they were happy. Let aside my sons near breakdown when he realized that he wouldn't be first in every birthday game planned. Well, I guess the treasure hunt made up for it.

My kids, already in jungle mood. All happy waiting for the guests. And even happier when the party started.

October 2010 - Kindergarten Octoberfest

2011-02-06T21:44:00.003+01:00

As we live in Bavaria there is no way you only dress up for one Octoberfest. Our kindergarten celebrated a big kids Octoberfest and it was pretty cold outside, but everybody was in the best of moods. I really enjoyed it. Take a look at my favourite people in the world.

October 2010 - Wiesn

2011-01-18T16:17:00.004+01:00

As we live in Munich we HAVE TO go to the Oktoberfest with our whole family.
You gotta go there by public transportation and everything is pretty crowded - but still fun.
I am just posting some pictures - you can probably tell, which are on the way to the Fest and which are on our way back - we look slightly tired...

September 2010 - I SO love this girl

2011-01-18T16:05:00.005+01:00

She is funny and talented, helpful and sweet, loves people and loves her family. I couldn't ask for anything more.

Oh - and I almost forgot - she loves reading so much that she falls asleep and will not let go of the book.

September 2010 - Let's organize

2011-01-18T15:58:00.003+01:00

Somehow my kids rooms seem to be a mess the moment I turn around. I try to get them to clean up, but there are things that they just can't do on their own - like organizing their playmobil. So this is some of the unorganized amount of playmobil scattered all over the house. This is my son, watching from above, all happy that he does not have to help a bit.

Just the colour-sorted animals (some of them). I really organize all playmobil in these really cheap boxes from the hardware store - but it SO works for the kids.

14th of September 2010 - School begins II

2011-01-18T15:53:00.003+01:00

Just some more pictures I wanted to share with you. We are so proud!!!!!

14th of September 2010 - School begins

2011-01-18T15:42:00.004+01:00

My daughters first day at school was a total success. She absolutely loved it. No tears, just plain excitement.
Naturally, we had to pose for the classic first day of school pic in front of our house.

Look how excited she is.

This is her sitting at her desk for the very first time. Shortly after we had to leave and school started - just for one hour, but still.

I was so happy when the door opened after that hour and I looked at her face and saw pure joy. You know how you can tell by one look at your childrens face that EVERYTHING is GREAT. Well, this is her "GREAT" look.And this is Mrs. Wagner, her first grade teacher. Doesn't she look just like the woman you would have loved to have as a teacher? She is so lovely.

The Missus was not lazy

2011-01-18T15:08:00.005+01:00

There is so much happening in my life lately - and all at once. I knew that life would change, as the children grow up - but I wasn't expecting something like this. It has been so much fun being me lately. It also brought about some changes, e.g. a new (professional) website, called http://www.meinesvenja.de/. Here you can follow my latest adventures on TV and see me all dressed up - not like here, always being Mommy :-)

The planning and designing of the website as well as the TV thing took a lot of my free time away, so I completely stopped lilukids - for the moment. To fill in the gap from August last year to January 2011, I decided to put up some posts that'll show you what happened over at our house in the meantime....And I have to tell you, that I TOTALLY was not lazy - I really got in shape for the on camera thing and am now pretty fit as a result. Or as Jay Z says: The amount of work you put into something equals what you will get out of it.

Kids in Bavaria

2010-08-24T17:12:00.003+02:00

Some weekend impressions: How children live in Bavaria (when the sun is shining and summer finally IS here!).Riding the boat in the morning.Playing at the lake at noon.
Living the moment in rubber boats.
Still living the moment - in a bikini.
Drinking hot chocolate after spending hours in the freezing lake. Naturally served by Mum, who was on standby the whole afternoon.

Schliersee 2010

2010-08-24T17:06:00.004+02:00

There is nothing nicer than to live in Munich, hop in the car on Friday, drive 40 minutes and arrive at this magic place called Schliersee. I just had to share these with you.Perfect breakfast at the cottage.Typical bavarian style windows.Morning view from the cottage.
I LOVE this lifestyle. Whoever wants to visit, please feel invited. I'll show you around.

Alike

2010-08-17T22:09:00.004+02:00

I have wanted to post these for a long time.

What I see when I wake up.

What I see when I look down.

What I see when I made coffee. And yes, I know how blessed I am. I am sharing my life with the best man in the world and I have a son who is growing to be a man just as fine as his amazing Dad.

Dinner with friends

2010-07-28T21:10:00.003+02:00

One part of the shooting was a dinner with friends. I just looked at the material and had to take some screenshots. So sorry for the poor quality - but I just had to share the good times.

Shooting. Part 2.

2010-07-27T18:49:00.005+02:00

And who knows me, knows that it so wouldn't be me to appear on TV only pretty. Therefore the brave girl in me recorded an episode that will show me without any make up (as seen above) and in leggings. I think it is better not to take yourself too serious sometimes.

Shooting. Part 1.

2010-07-27T18:37:00.003+02:00

Because of a lot of helping hands and great supportive friends (as well as companies, who were so nice to let me use their products) I had a fantastic experience this weekend. Here is part 1 of 2.

LOVE HER

2010-07-22T07:42:00.001+02:00

This summer could last forever.

Daddys' boy

2010-07-22T07:39:00.003+02:00

Thanks to my very talented friend Julia, once again. Ynd yes: He resembles his father.

All new

2010-07-21T20:53:00.002+02:00

Guys, this is a time of gathering props, having fittings and buying and ordering last minute things. Hell, what a ride. If I had known that those before the camera moments would be marginal compared to all that preparation. Well, sometimes you need to go all the way (implying perfection, perfection and perfection) and keep your eyes on the details to think: Fine, this is what I want everyone to see. Anyway, I have been blessed (once again) with fantastic girls to inspire, encourage and keep me going. Thanks to Julia and Yvi, Jessica, Almut. Alex and Anja, Megan, Laurie, Linda and Simone. Thanks for lifting my spirits and believing in me. And last but not least: Thanks to my husband who always knows what I need.
Keep you posted.
Svenja

New aera

2010-07-05T22:22:00.002+02:00

There are no words to describe how my life changed lately. I started a challenge 10 weeks ago and not only lost 5 k but also put on a lot of muscles. All in all because I got a project rolling which puts me in front of the camera. The ride has been amazing and it truly is one journey. I have been facebooking a lot but there is just no time to blog. More about all of this later. Truly amazing times.
Full of love. Svenja

The moment you let go

2010-06-26T21:44:00.004+02:00

Life is strange. I wrote a post some time ago (actually on the 31st of December) that was called "No New Year's Resolution". Believe it or not - 6 months later I find myself in the middle of that post. It was about how I will live this year of my life doing the things that come easy to me. EASY was to be the theme for the upcoming year. Well, and easy it was. I recorded something in February and it got picked up. Which means: me in front of the camera doing things that come easy to me. And holy God, was I shocked when I looked at me. It was bliss jumping in my face. What can I say? I wasn't the only one, who got it. Interesting enough, all of this happened the very moment I let go. Let go of what I thought was right for me, was my dream all of my life, was something I was trying to achieve. So this is what I got out of the experience so far: If you ever WOW yourself, you better stay on that path. Something else that is remarkable: The girls that got me going were not surprised at all. So this is to you, Julia and Yvi, two of the bravest women I will ever know: Thank you.

Soccer WM

2010-06-14T12:04:00.002+02:00

4 goals = 2 flags and 2 happy children.

Unbeatable

2010-06-14T11:50:00.003+02:00

Like every mother I adore my children, BUT I SWEAR, my son is the sweetest. He loves to play with my brothers old tin soldiers and gets all excited about it (look at the red cheeks). This time they were fighting dinosaurs - childrens worlds are easy, you can pack together all sorts of items and just let fantasy take you away.

And then there are moments like these, where he jumped in the pool and only came out to eat strawberry cake. He was SO living the moment, I thought it was unbeatable. He always reminds me to enjoy life to the max. And by the way, I love it how he looks just like his Daddy.

Summer of style

2010-06-14T11:33:00.002+02:00

There is nothing better than experiencing a summer in style - and by style I mean fresh flowers (at home), great food (at Julias and Phuongs) andfantastic locations (in combination with great food: Le Moissonnier, Cologne, 0221-729479.)

Yummie!

Picture perfect Sunday

2010-04-25T22:05:00.003+02:00

We went to the "Maibaumwache", where they prepare a big tree trunk to be put up on May first. Traditionally it is painted blue and white. Today we got to sit on it and take our picture - it is soon going to be put up for 5 years.
Afterwards it was fun in the sun at the lake with friends. Everyone was happy - and is now sound asleep. Picture perfect.

Among friends

2010-04-25T22:03:00.003+02:00

The other night, we spent 3 hours talking to friends in Seattle via skype. Lin and Ken - you are extra-special to us and it is always fantastic to talk to you and envision the future!!!
LOVE from both of us!!!

...and the living is easy.

2010-04-10T11:38:00.000+02:00

Summertime.

All I ever wanted

2010-04-09T11:34:00.003+02:00

When I was pregnant with my first child I wanted it to be a girl. No, this doesn't really explain how it felt. I was desperate for a little girl to come into my life. And God listened to me. He still provides me with moments where I can see crystal clear, why this girl had to be with me. This is one of the rare pictures that show how I feel about her. Every day. Every night. Forever.

Chocolate and blood

2010-04-06T19:00:00.004+02:00

We just returned from a short Easter holiday. My children were delighted to spend time with both of their parents, both Grandmas and even one godfather. They ate chocolate day and night and probably think life can stay that way from now on. Bunny number one, executed.Bunny number two, loved.Play doh, freestyle: lake with ducks and rose hedges.View from our holiday home window in the evening.Front tooth number two almost ready to go after a foot-kick from her little brother. How on earth did he get his foot up that high??? You stand, stare and wonder...

Front running

2010-04-06T18:21:00.006+02:00

The other day we had lots of fun in the studio. Uwe and I were trying different things in front of the camera. The unbelievably talented Julia (I will write more about her later this week) as well as "Mr. Eye" Phuong were generous enough to waste their talent and time on us. Praise! Location, Location. Uwe talking. Very interesting. Phuong doing what he does. Nobody knows what it is, but it always looks good in the end. Julia eating, before she let out the antagonist. Me in the Make-up department.

Love, unconditionally

2010-04-06T18:17:00.003+02:00

I just wanted to check on my kids at night as I always do before I go to bed. They were holding hands while sleeping - and I was in tears. Sometimes it just takes a precious moment like this to make me happy. Life is very nice to me.

Friends

2010-04-03T07:24:00.002+02:00

Sometimes all you need is an evening with your friends to catch up, laugh and eat. Actually, I ate so much that I had to get rid of my belt and my shoes. At the end of the meal I couldn't get them on again, almost like after riding in a plane. Well, those girls always lift me up, so it might have been that. Anyway - I had a blast and have to say, that the red-haired girl is the most astonishing 35-year-old I have seen so far. And the blond girl to the right is definitely the only girl I know that orders two chocolate deserts after just having finished 4 courses. My type of women!

Like mother, like daughter

2010-03-18T11:37:00.002+01:00

We just went to look at some studios for a planned shooting. It was a very nice daylight studio and amazing Phuong took these pictures in like 2 minutes. Thanks man, you made my day. I look just as young at heart and happy as I feel today.

Tooth fairy

2010-02-01T20:01:00.001+01:00

Upper front tooth gone. Been there, done that.

It's my party

2010-01-26T13:11:00.002+01:00

On my birthday I invited my girls from Munich for an evening out at my favourite Japanese eatery. Thanks girls for being there and sharing that day with me. It meant a lot.

In the studio

2010-01-19T20:00:00.003+01:00

Yesterday we checked out a friend's studio for an upcoming promo we want to do. The children came with us so we had some family fun. Just wanted to share the green screen pictures we took as part of the fun.

Date night

2010-01-03T12:34:00.002+01:00

Sometimes you need your husband to take you out on a date. I am not giving you any more details, just a quick look at the bar to let your imagination run wild. Have a wonderful Sunday, my friends.

Girls

2010-01-02T15:16:00.004+01:00

Just came back from breakfast with the girls - those who never met in real life but only on facebook before. Actually - I knew them from real life, but they had not yet met each other. It was fun from the very first second on. We went to daylesford organic who just opened a shop/restaurant in downtown Munich. Sad enough, they didn't allow us to take pictures so I can show you only the one that I took before they told us not to. Don't be misled by the nice surroundings. It was cold (the only warm place was the washroom, indeed!) and the waiters were not overly motivated or friendly. Furthermore, the food (eggs benedict) took them 30 minutes - and we were the only guests. My recommendation if you want to go there: Bring fun girls along, otherwise it'll be rather disappointing.

My 100th post

2010-01-01T20:32:00.004+01:00

When I started the lilukids project it was planned differently than it turned out - in a good way. Right now I can't believe I made it to post number 100. Hooooray! To celebrate this big number I am posting 2 pictures: This one showing our private little kids fireworks party yesterday at 6 p.m. with the neighbours and this one showing those guys who gave this blog its name: LIs and LUdwig from LILUkids. This year will be special and there will be so many new stories and ideas featured here - I am really looking forward to all of it. Thanks to all my readers - those I do and those I don't know yet - for staying with me for such a long time.

Love, Svenja

Katharina

2010-01-01T20:23:00.003+01:00

My husband has a godchild named Katharina. 2008 she lived with us for half a year and then went on to spend a year in the States as an AuPair. This Christmas she returned and we met her and her family on the 26th of December. Katharina was beaming with energy and was so full of new plans and influenced by the way she lived and by what she experienced that past year, so full of stories. It was amazing to see how that young girl turned into a woman while being away. In the picture you see Katharina, Lis and me, all smiles.

Shopping

2010-01-01T20:16:00.003+01:00

The other day we went shopping in the supermarket and my children wouldn't stop taking pictures. It worked out well - everyone was happy and we got all shopping done in absolute minimum time. That's what I call a win-win.

Sueddeutsche Zeitung, canteen

2010-01-01T20:02:00.003+01:00

I wanted to post this for a long time but somehow never got around to do it. My husband and I go out for lunch almost every day at the fantastic canteen in the new Sueddeutsche Zeitung skyscraper. The food is unbelievable - they have at least 4 front cooking areas and the freshness is breathtaking. Anyway, whenever I tell someone that we are going to a company canteen they look at us as if we are crazy. Just to show everyone once why I think we are NOT - this is what the food typically looks like.Yummie! Wanna come????

No New Year's Resolution

2009-12-31T16:38:00.006+01:00

I don't believe in New Year's resolutions. Maybe that is because I never managed to quit smoking on the 1st of January, but did so in 5 seconds when I found out I was pregnant. What I do believe in though is to find and live a theme every year, like a motto. To find a motto for the next year was very easy - who am I to kid myself or you. My life is almost back to normal as my children are big. I spent the last 6 years nurturing them and (pat on the back) did a pretty good job. At least they know how to behave as soon as we are in public, so it doesn't matter that much if they forget all about manners as soon as we are home again. Anyway, I won't stop nurturing them in the future, but I will stop to complain that there is no time to live and celebrate my old self. Which includes - and everyone who knows me in person knows exactly what the next word will be - writing.

I know, that was quite some introduction for my 2010 motto, but here it is: EASY. I am only going to do things, that come easy to me. Because just as Joseph Campbell always told us: "If you follow your bliss, doors will open where there were no doors before and where there wouldn't be a door for anyone else. It's something about the integrity of a life that the world moves in and helps."

For me, the concept of EASY is not to sleep and be lazy, but to do things that create a flow and a pull at the same time. It is not about being a coach potatoe but about hard work and discipline to back up a talent and get where I belong. The moment I set my mind on this theme, doors opened (and the New Year had not even begun). I met amazing women (you know who you are) who support me in my wish to get back the girl I was formerly known as and go forward as the woman I am supposed to be. For some instance, it needed to be girls to give me the "Go". So girls, watch out, here I come. Easy.

Season Greetings

2009-12-24T21:33:00.004+01:00

I am wishing all of my readers a Merry Xmas. Along with my season greetings I am posting my daughters Xmas ballett school pictures. Those little ballerinas always make me smile - I hope you feel the same way. And now: Light all those candles and be romantic. It's CHRISTMAS-Eve!!!!

Pure love

2009-12-11T08:41:00.003+01:00

Yesterday evening my son didn't want to sleep and kept calling me downstairs. When he did that for the tenth time I went down and started my monologue about how I want him to sleep and how I am not coming down those stairs one more time and that now this game is over. When I was ready, staring at him in my fiercest youdowhatmommysaysorsomethingreallybadwillhappen manner, he simply said: "Mommy, when will it start to snow?" The innocence of this question and how he never listens to me when I am in my "I want it my way" rage and how he is just like his father, never tired of seeing a wonder in some sunray or flower I burst out laughing and we started a round of serious cuddling. I am so glad that this is my life. So this is the picture of the day:
Because without you guys it just wouldn't be Christmas. Thanks for being in my life.

Hotel Louis, Munich

2009-12-10T11:59:00.006+01:00

It's been a while, as we moved to another house. I spread the word on facebook and just didn't find time to blog as well. Anyway, yesterday was my "return to womanhood" day. After getting a haircut I met a wonderful friend from Cologne in his hotel in Munich. I had a manicure in his room and we proceeded to the bar/dinner section. He stayed in the Louis Hotel , a pretty new place located directly at Viktualienmarkt, next to amazing Kustermann. The food concept is: share your meal. You've got to experience yourself - it was a feast. But beware: They are fully booked every evening of the week, giving away every table twice during the evening. So: call in advance. All thumbs up and fingers crossed.

Days go by so fast

2009-11-12T20:28:00.005+01:00

Playdate on a cold autumn day with outdoor buffet.
Burger King - I wasn't in the mood to cook dinner.
Saint Martins' event, just a few hours ago. My life really is full of precious moments. Sorry for the bad picture quality, but since I started my iPhone era I am just too lazy to take my camera with me. Thanks, Steve.

Birthday party

2009-11-12T20:20:00.005+01:00

Just some pictures for you to enjoy. We had a blast.

Happy birthday, my little man

2009-10-28T12:04:00.009+01:00

Reality check - could it really be that my baby boy is turning 4 today? Time has flown by and I still think of him as my "little" man. Anyway, I woke up this morning to find my two favourite boys in my bed - don't even start to ask yourself how much sleeping space was left for me...Then I took my iPhone from my nightstand and took a picture - and then another one - to find that my son has brought his favourite knife ever to our bed. He loves it, because when you hold it up, the blood vanishes, you hold it down, the blood is all there.
It almost made me cry, because that is SO him. Ever since he could carry things he always put stuff next to his bed and as soon as he woke up (no matter if it was in the middle of the night or in the morning, asking if he's allowed in our bed) he grabbed that item and took it wherever he's headed. Seeing him lie there with his giraffe, that he had since he was a baby, and his knife, which is his coolest toy at the moment, I was so happy, that I have him in my life. Happy about all these mornings when he sticks his little cold feet between my legs, he pulls me close and makes these funny noises that are supposed to mean: I like this VERY much. Sweetie, you are the very best little man this earth has to offer and I will help you become the most wonderful friend, boyfriend, husband and father - every step of the way, anytime you need me. I love you with all my heart.
P.S.: When we were driving back from kindergarten today, your father said to me: "He is already four. Let's have some more children real fast." Well, I don't think so - what is there left to discover after having you?

Lotti

2009-10-19T18:19:00.003+02:00

I have been very occupied by preparations and traveling lately, but now the book fair is over and it is back to normal. I realized that I really have to start the writing of some of my projects. So on Thursday I will be having breakfast with Yvi, mother of Charlotte. I am writing a series about mothers who face special challenges with their children. Lotti has MLD and is going to die. She is the same age as my daughter. She is as pretty and lovely - but her time on earth might be shorter. She touches my heart in a way that is hard to explain. I will tell you more, as I progress.
Love for today!

Leisure time

2009-10-03T20:37:00.003+02:00

Today was so nice - we got a phone call this morning from our close friends Markus and Jessica. They invited us to a barbecue at the Isar - so off we went. While the children were playing in the water we had such a nice afternoon at the riverside (and some glasses of wine). Sometimes the spontaneous settings are definitely the best. Right now I am glad that the kids are off to bed and I'll be going to sleep soon as well.

Keith Johnstone Workshop

2009-09-30T18:40:00.006+02:00

The master himself.
Julia at breakfast.
Me, all smiles.

It started as an idea and went on to change my life. I really wanted to see Keith Johnstone (the inventor of Improvisational Theatre) once in my life, so my friend Julia and me booked his workshop in Cologne and I have to admit it was pretty life changing. Not because of all the games we played, not because of the way he teaches and not because of his experience. But there is something about learning from a master that you only get later, in real life. In that sense, Keith taught me something - as he would put it - I already knew, but he reminded me of. To let loose, not to try to be the best and have fun. Oh - it IS nice to not try all the time but enjoy. So for a change - why don't you try not to try so hard and have all the fun along the way.

Wiesn 2009

2009-09-30T18:34:00.003+02:00

I am glad I went to the opening act this year - terror warnings and all that don't really make you wanna go this week. Here are some images from my Wiesn trip with some mothers from kindergarten. Tourists kept stopping us to take pictures so we had some fun.

Ballet lesson No 1

2009-09-17T17:09:00.004+02:00

Lis is telling me how much she wants to dance ballet for 1 1/2 years now, so I finally gave in today. Not being much of a dancer myself I have to admit: it was the cutest sight. All these little girls in their pink ballet dresses and Jasmin, the teacher, all in black. We will be part of this for a long time to come, I can feel it. If you are in Munich check out Jasmins ballet school, she is VERY good. Lis is all happy now, practicing her new moves in the living room.

Denmark, last episode

2009-08-25T13:43:00.005+02:00

We've been home for almost two weeks now, but I still wanted to post some final Denmark pictures that show how great it is to have a family. Honest to god - there is nothing more encouraging and more important. Today, my friends, I wish you all well and hope you can spend quality time with your own wonderful families.

A day at a time

2009-08-02T17:46:00.005+02:00

As I am in the middle of a book project with my husband we are trying to take it a day at a time now that we are away in Denmark. The mornings are for writing and then we take off with the kids.
Yesterday we went into Aarhuis' splendid store magasin, you can see the children lying in the reading corner - they loved it there.We also went to a toystore and got a fantastic bubble-kit. Lis and Ludwig spent the rest of the afternoon and early evening making bubbles. I was tempted to try, too - especially with the panoramic background. I love our yellow danish house.

Another day at the beach

2009-08-02T17:36:00.004+02:00

We had the first day of REAL sunshine since we arrived in Aarhuis, Denmark. So the kids went crazy and we stayed at the beach for 4 hours straight- thinking this chance might not come back. My daughter underwent some serious costume changes while my son loved it to be naked. I just know now that I will look at these pictures one day and think of that day as being pretty perfect. Uwe painted a nice picture while we were at the beach and I got some time off just lying there and feeling the sun on my skin.

2 kids under 6

2009-07-29T18:34:00.005+02:00

Holidays with 2 kids under 6 - everyone who's been there knows, that you will have to visit an amusement park. So we made our way to Djurs Sommerland and did all the little kids rides. Look, suddenly it is me in all of the pictures ;-)

Ludwig was afraid of some of the bigger rides, though. This is him in his new raincoat - Danish design for kids is pretty cool.

And this is the two of them, discussing which ride to go on next. I just love it when they act in their secret sibling mood - and not the "This is my toy" mood.

The big ship, part II

2009-07-29T18:24:00.004+02:00

We went to the harbour next to the ship to find a smaller yacht that was called Lissy. See my daughter standing in front of it with the biggest smile on her face. I am sure she will grow to be a material girl now, she really wanted Daddy to buy the yacht for her. Look at him, he was all ready to do it. Well, I held him back (boring me). Lissy taking over the yacht. Part of the big ship.

My kids steering the big ship.

The big ship

2009-07-29T18:09:00.004+02:00

There is a very big ship in Ebeltoft, called Fregatte, you can go and visit. Well, we went and besides having to tell you that a cannon is very loud when being fired (holymoly) I was surprised by how big the ship's propeller is. It was a wonderful sunny day, too, so this was very rewarding after the last days of not so good weather - meaning temperatures around 18 - 20 degrees, which doesn't sound like a lot of sunny beaches, does it?

Viking convention

2009-07-29T17:58:00.004+02:00

It was crazy, but so much fun. We went to Europes second biggest Viking Convention on Moersgard Strand and I have never seen something like it. The Vikings (and there were 2000 of them) fought against each other and it was breathtakingly aggressive. The children couldn't believe it first but then thought it was fun to see everyone "dying". They have been playing Viking every since and I will probably have to buy some weapons before we go home.

Here you can see our Siberian AuPair Larissa killing a Viking. By now she knows how to shut someone up (good thing!).

Pure bliss

2009-07-24T08:12:00.004+02:00

We spend so much time with the kids that we keep doing such important things as jumping on the trampoline, lying in the hammock and building sand castles. It is quite amazing how much fun it is to spend time with the kids when you can really dive into the experience without being stressed out because of work or having to be somewhere on time. This morning Ludwig and I spent an hour (sadly it was the hour between 6 and 7) playing with a little ball - just rolling and throwing it back and forth. I probably was four when I did that the last time. Denmark rocks! Oh - and my son loves the Danish flag so much that he tried to paint it on his body. Too bad it doesn't wash off, but then again he is busy doing other things like tasting salty water. He SO is daddys' boy. Lissy seems to be more on the safe side with her wetsuit. She SO is my girl.

The beach

2009-07-21T21:11:00.003+02:00

Just look at their faces. Need I say more?

Taking over the house

2009-07-21T20:55:00.003+02:00

Ever thought about exchanging your home during the holiday season? I strongly recommend it. Right now we are in Denmark and totally love it. We are living in a parsonage (pastors house) and it is SO nice and SO big. And there are SO many toys I didn't have to pack. Pure joy, I tell you.

This is everybody, just minutes before we were taking over the house. And everybody did this in his or her very own way.

Ludwig by getting used to new weapons.

Lis by creating a barbie retreat in the meditation room.

Me in the kitchen.

And the master himself at the Danish masters desk. Thanks for this wonderful home, Iben and Morten!!!

Goodbye, ladies

2009-07-18T07:06:00.004+02:00

For the last two years Ludwig and I have been visiting such a fun music school course. I don't know what it was, but all the mothers always said that the course seemed to be more for ourselves than for the children. Anyway, we had so much fun dancing and singing away and it was a pleasure to see all the little ones grow up over such a long time. Last Wednesday was Ludwigs last lesson before he starts to visit the course for the older children (including my daughter) so we had a little muffin and sweets and apple juice feast at the end of the lesson. I even remembered to take a picture of our gang - so here it is. Farewell ladies! We'll miss you for sure.

A pair of wellies and a bikini

2009-07-16T19:18:00.014+02:00

Remember, when a sunny day and some free time were ment to be spend in wellies and bikinis? I don't know what it is about my girl and this summer, but I keep taking millions of pictures, thinking that all these moments go by too fast. You truly are the apple of my eye, sweetie pie.

People I meet

2009-07-15T07:07:00.012+02:00

Scrolling through my blog I realized that it almost looks as if I only spend time with my kids. That is so not true. A) I am working and b) I meet a whole bunch of people older than 5 every week. Let me give you some examples: Meisun and me at RTL, having loads of fun. Kati and Meisun (both Norddeich TV) and me as Charlies Angels. These girls rock. Kristina has been a trainee and friend of mine since I started my very first company (meaning almost 10 years ago). Obviously she isn't a trainee anymore but the friendship remained. We were so excited to see each other again that we couldn't get one shot right. And last but SO not least - my Julia, whom I miss every day. She used to be my husbands assistant but that doesn't AT ALL describe who she is and what she is able to do. Love her.

Thanks, Affa

2009-07-10T20:26:00.003+02:00

About a year ago, Affa from China asked me to be a part of her upcoming book project. I was more than excited. Now, as I am holding the book in my hands, I think Affa did a GREAT job in picking the various crafters and designing the pages. Thanks a lot for choosing me to among all of those talented fellow mothers/crafters. This is truly overwhelming.

At the fire department

2009-07-09T14:48:00.005+02:00

As soon as we saw the first fire engine, we lost it. There was an open house at the fire department Riem in Munich last Saturday and we did it all: ride in the fire engine and
dress like fire(wo)men. After that, the kids needed a break and coloured some fire engine pictures while eating banana muffins and drinking lemonade.

Island of smiles

2009-07-09T13:10:00.005+02:00

We went to our beloved Schliersee (again) the other weekend. As it was raining and raining and raining we decided to take a boat trip to the island in the middle of the lake. As you can see, the rain stopped and we all loved it there. I just think it's the most fascinating thing - as soon as you arrive at an island you feel all adventurous, want to sit down around a campfire, run around the woods and stay forever. Oh, sweet childhood memories.

Larissa, finally

2009-06-25T16:25:00.004+02:00

We have waited for her some month, but it was sooooo worth it. As our new AuPair, Larissa from Siberia, settles in, we realize just how much of a blessing she is. The whole family calmed down. I have so much more time to work and finally get things done without taking someone to the toilet between calls. And last but SO not least: the children absolutely love her. The pictures show my brother Jens and Larissa on her first night in town (I was with them, taking the pictures). We raced up to the Olympic Tower to show her the scenery (always worth a ride up, no matter which weather) and then went for some Bavarian-Japanese food in Haidhausen.

Perfect summer moment

2009-06-25T16:20:00.003+02:00

What more do you need to have fun? A big glass full of ice cubes, coke and lemon. What a perfect moment on a hot day.

Ain't no sunshine when there's rain

2009-06-25T13:43:00.003+02:00

I am NOT going to pretend that the sun is shining today. But I have the perfect weapon against those grey clouds outside: Some fun in the sun pictures, taken last week when the summer finally seemed to have arrived. Well, I am waiting patiently for it's return. Meanwhile enjoy the pictures.

Depeche Mode

2009-06-13T21:52:00.003+02:00

My husband and our AuPair are at the Depeche Mode concert in the Olympiastadion right now. They have a blast - this is the picture he sent me just before the band started playing. Wouldn't you love to be there? Mirya, a friend of ours who lives in Schwabing, called me to tell me she can listen to the concert in her garden. Isn't it just the best to live in a big city???

The lady is a tramp

2009-06-12T13:19:00.004+02:00

Mrs. "I know what I look like" lately visited the Feringasee in order to show off her latest swimsuit addition. How come that girls are born nowadays, knowing the meaning of the phrase "editorial posing"? Anyway, we had a blast and while I took pictures, the Missus enjoyed the moment.

Hotel Abtei, Hamburg

2009-06-12T13:10:00.003+02:00

I just love charming little hotels, especially if they are very private and intimate. Whoever plans a trip to Hamburg, should make this a must-see (or better THE place to sleep or eat). Oh, and if you visit the restaurant make sure to ask Remigio for his wine recommendation. He'll show you heaven.

Food, Poletto-style

2009-06-08T06:44:00.004+02:00

Eating good food is like a love affair - you always come back. I know Cornelia Poletto (take a look at her famous restaurant) back from when we were teenagers. She didn't change a bit, her food changed a lot. I just love her style of dishes and her sunny state of being. If you get a chance, go, taste and enjoy. Just make sure you call way in advance. What a treat!

Old friends

2009-06-08T06:38:00.005+02:00

Almut is my long time friend. We know each other from the day she was born and it was just great to celebrate her birthday over dinner. It is always wonderful to see each other. We are on the phone every day (more than once) and are very much involved with each others lifes. So seeing each other is always about friendship and laughter and being oneself.

Just the two of us

2009-06-08T06:29:00.004+02:00

Weekend getaways can be really romantic and inspiring - this one surely was. We flew to Hamburg on Saturday and had a fun day. After taking time for a short business meeting we went to the "Landungsbrücken", then dressed up and went out for dinner. On the next day we had a lovely breakfast, looked at some hotels and took a cab down to Blankenese to take in the beauty of that fishervillage like part of the city. Back at the airport we had a chat with Kelly Hansen, lead singer of Foreigner, and went straight back to our children. I just love short trips and new impressions.

All about Adele

2009-06-08T06:23:00.004+02:00

Adele is my husbands 89 years old grandma. After having a bad year and some health troubles she is on her way to recovery this year. We went to see her at Schliersee last Sunday, where she visited her daughter Hannis mountain resort. As always, Adele was reflecting on life, talking about God and giving advice. She has strong opinions and I could listen to this brave and wise woman forever.

Daddy duty

2009-06-07T20:41:00.007+02:00

Last week daddy took the kids to a playground nearby in Munich Riem, close to the old airport. It is a really modern playground and while the kids enjoyed all kind of great outdoor toys I was at home, sound asleep, dreaming of a life where you can always do what you want to do and no one expects you to entertain them. Oh, hold on, that was BEFORE we had the kids. Just kidding.

Birthday girl

2009-06-07T20:33:00.004+02:00

What a sweet day! Blue sky, lots of balloons and sweet little kids. May-Britt turned 4 and SO was princess of the day. Thanks to the weather we were able to spend the whole day outside - hunting treasures and playing ball. What a treat. Just wanted to share some impressions - it was a quite editorial setting - all colorful and in the middle of Munich-Schwabing, right in Hohenzollernstraße. Happy birthday, big girl!

Schliersee - The best lake outside of Munich

2009-05-29T11:21:00.005+02:00

The title says it all: My family and me have fallen in love. We found a wonderful house at Schliersee and since then try to spend as much time as possible there.

It is only 40 minutes from Munich with breathtaking views and lots of things to do. The children simply love it - mostly because we always do loads of things and take friends with us.

The house is perfect for two families as it has lots of space, 5 bedrooms and a parklike garden. Wanna come?

Love

Svenja

My little boy

2009-05-28T12:07:00.007+02:00

I can't believe how long it took me to write another post. It seems that each spring is busier than the one before. The kids have been playing indoors way too long - so we took every opportunity to go outside, breathe some fresh air and get some sun. As you all know, this is my sons' first year in kindergarden - and it is also his first real spring. Having two children born in October I always think the spring and summer when they are three are "firsts". Somehow they seem to take it all in and act so grown up. Therefore this post is dedicated to my (not so little) boy, whose sweetness and innocence breaks my heart every day.

A zebra and a princess

2009-02-24T06:34:00.004+01:00

There we go having 500 costumes and every year my kids end up dressing as princess and zebra.
Actually - it expresses quite well how they behave in everyday life.And now look at this: Before and...after. The princess lost her first tooth. It's been some weeks ago, but I never got around to post the news. First there were tears and now she thinks it is the coolest thing, naturally.

The last weeks have been busy again. It is so interesting how each time everyone is speaking of a crisis we are booming once again. See me in a very thankful mode here! And now - tatatata - THE news: We have finally decided to invite an Aupair into our house. I am very excited about it because I think it will be a personal gain for everyone involved. More on that as soon as things are progressing - it might even be the middle of March.

Today it is going to be a long day again. It is kids first, then work, PT in the afternoon, then kids again and a work dinner. I hope there is going to be some peaceful sleep afterwards, with no zebra disturbing me.

Have a great day
Love
Svenja

busybusybusy

2009-02-05T07:02:00.009+01:00

Kleinhesseloher See, Englischer Garten, Munich

Restaurant up in the Olympiaturm, Munich

Sorry, I wasn't planning on being absent for so long. Life has just been unusually busy the last weeks. First we had a stomach flu going on, now it's the real flu. The children are coughing all night long which leaves me all tired and exhausted. Still, I am in a pretty good mood. My husband and I started to work together again. Not that we ever stopped, but we are working on the same projects again, communictaing about professional things more often. I love that as it is always a real highlight to listen to his opinion on things. The other news is: I started to work out with a personal trainer. After being in the gym for quite a while I decided to take my fitness to the next level. And I can only tell the girls out there: get yourself a PT NOW. It is the best decision I made in the last years and it so pays off. I feel a million dollars after working out with him as he is really pushing me over the limit. I will keep you updated on this - it is fun!!!!
As I don't want this to be a post without pictures I am just showing you some of the trips we did with the children lately.
Have a wonderful day
Svenja

Happy

2009-01-13T20:10:00.002+01:00

I have to tell you: I have been very happy lately. December and January have just been great. Me in December, being happy on the balcony of our beach house in Malibu.Malibu always puts me in a great mood. Even when I am inside the beach house.Me, smiling after a night out in Munich with really good friends of ours, Kerstin and Wolfgang.LOVE this picture. The lady in black is my girlfriend FOREVER and this was at the party when her husband turned to be a professor in December. As you can see, my life has been quite nice lately, as I traveled and met wonderful people!
Love Svenja

What traveling does for children

2009-01-04T07:53:00.004+01:00

There are times when you think your children will never grow up. They are fighting with each other as soon as you leave the room, won't dress themselves and leave you dizzy, as you are explaining things over and over again. And then, there are other times. Times, when you are traveling and your children do nothing but surprise you. I couldn't believe it when I read a book for 2 hours straight as they were playing in the living room in the morning. This is, what else my children did on our New Years trip to Ireland:Stand in a milk parlor and help milk the cows for 2 hours straight.Act very relaxed and not shy at all in a new location with nothing but strangers - even eat their pancakes and enjoy the whole experience.
Go on a little trip with one of those English speaking gals you have not seen before in your life. This was my sons' first trip with someone he hasn't known for ages. Their only shared word was "tractor", but that lasted a while. Thanks for doing this Mike!
Being easy to handle in a plane for 2 1/2 hours. See how I am patting his back - I was nothing but happy.Dancing on a beach out of pure joy. I love you, princess.
Svenja

Ireland, revisited

2009-01-04T07:39:00.005+01:00

If you haven't been there yet, I strongly recommend going. Have I ever met more people who are open-minded, up for something new and love adventures? No. Have I ever seen greater hospitality? Surely not. This has been a blast again and I just want to give you some picture impressions:Land of beauty - very romantic secenery, wild and calming at the same time.Ireland beaches - obviously the place to have fun and go family.
Hospitality - it is unbelievable how nice total strangers will be. Try it!
Adventures around every corner. Mystic landscape and interesting people: to die for.And last but not least - the girl who makes it all happen: my dear friend Grett. Thanks for opening your door and your heart. You are one of a kind!
Love Svenja

My relaxed in-laws

2008-12-26T06:19:00.002+01:00

I just have to say: There is nothing more amazing than relaxed in-laws. We went over to my mother in-law yesterday to meet my husbands two brothers as well as one wife and cousin Paula. Look at us playing a game in the middle of X-Mas chaos. It was all fun and comfortable - like home. Therefore I very much enjoyed the day. Hope you had a good day as well. Any family visits?
Today I am back to my desk and off to the gym later. I love X-Mas, but I love going back to normal as well. Which means: it is 6:30 and I am going to join my son in the living room and entertain him.
Have fun you all
Svenja

Dancing with my daughter

2008-12-24T06:56:00.004+01:00

Merry X-Mas everyone! I can't believe it is already Christmas morning. I have been trying to keep up with my blog, but this December was just too busy. Sorry. I will be better prepared in January. We will have a nice family holiday season - it is just the kids and us (well, and for today one brother and one grannie), but that is that. This month was filled with kids celebrations at their various engagements. Today I am blogging some pictures of my daughters' dance lessons Christmas party. It was really cute to see how excited everyone was. Those little girls in pink really break my heart.
It is still 7 a.m. over here and, which means my early bird son and me are the only one downstairs. As much as I could kill for just ONE morning of sleep - I love those quiet hours where it is just the two of us.
Gotta get going to prepare that Christmas grocery list. I still haven't done a thing which I think is a good sign: I am pretty relaxed these days. Anyway - have a wonderful Christmas night and celebration. We are off to Ireland for New Years Eve but I will be posting in between.
Love
Svenja

Article about lilukids at The Storque

2008-12-10T11:09:00.002+01:00

NEWS*NEWS*NEWS*

The fabulous pearlswirl has included me in her shop local article about German based Etsians.
Pearlswirl, thanks a million! I feel honoured to be put up there with amazing German crafters and artists. And all of my lovely readers: Don't forget to look at pearlswirls shop for some fantastic jewelry!

I will be posting some Malibu pictures and more that has been going on in my busy life very soon!

Love - and enjoy the holiday season,
Svenja

Leaving for L.A.

2008-11-26T10:01:00.003+01:00

Oh, how I love to post this. You are welcome to look at my master bedroom for the upcoming 6 nights. I will update you from Malibu - promise. What a view to wake up to, eh? Anyway, I am already missing the children, who are staying home with nanny and grannie.

Excited to go
Svenja

Sir Terence Conran and the Seven Sins

2008-11-21T11:44:00.003+01:00

If you are planning your trip to Munich you absolutely have to stop at this restaurant right at the Stacchus: Lenbach. It was designed by Sir Terence Conran. Its theme, The Seven Sins, is glamouros as well as voluptuous. Food has to be tasted as cannot be described - lets put it that way - I always go back.Interiors are very dark in these pictures, but then again it was nighttime. The ceilings are breathtaking. I love the catwalk, as it is higher than the rest of the restaurant and makes everyone so tall and attractive. Which isn't a must, as there is always a lot of eyecandy around anyway. Enjoy!
Svenja

Claerwen James

2008-11-14T06:25:00.005+01:00

All pictures copyright by Claerwen James

Every now and then you click onto a website and are almost shocked about how much you like what you see. Happened to me when I visited Merrilee's blogspot and found out about the British painter Claerwen James. After studying zoology at Oxford she turned to painting, the love of her life. She specialises in portraiture, particularly of young people, based on photographs. A true artist, isn't she? I would love to have one like that of my children.

Svenja

X-Mas patterns

2008-11-14T06:19:00.002+01:00

I just scrolled the papersource website and love a lot of their this years X-Mas patterns. Thought I'd share those with you and hope to get you in the mood, too. This year very graphic patterns seem to do it for me.

Hohoho,
Svenja

Lollihopp

2008-11-10T06:26:00.003+01:00

This weekend we've been to an indoor playground called lollihopp. It is quite recommendable, as it is huge and has a lot of attractions for the little ones. My husband was in the picture mood, so I finally have some pictures of me and my kids. Most of the times I am the one who is taking the pictures, so it almost looks as if I am never around. Anyway, this proves: they ARE my children. We were having loads of fun. By the way - I love my husband a lot. (This has to be said from time to time, doesn't it?)

Let's start this week...
Svenja