The Next Voice You Hear

new blog

2010-02-18T10:15:00.002-06:00

I've been posting mostly over here: Baking With Erin, which is more of a project-oriented blog. It started as a baking blog with Erin but has evolved to include gardening projects. Check it out if you're looking for more Zuniga info!

gender

2009-11-11T10:06:00.002-06:00

So, last night in the bathtub, Erin was exploring gender differences. Here's our conversation.

Erin: Mama, you're a girl?
Me: Yes, I'm a girl.
Erin: Mama, Dada's a boy?
Me: That's right, Dada's a boy.
Erin: And I'm a girl?
Me: Yes you are a girl. (pause) What is Rory?
Erin (exuberantly): a fairy!

Catching Up

2009-10-05T21:55:00.002-05:00

What's new, you say?

Well, Erin is under the weather. This means we haven't had a chance to continue our culinary adventures. What culinary adventures, say you? Well, check them out here!

Please think happy happy thoughts for little E right now for her fever to go down.

On the Rory front, we've got lots of sitting up and laughing. Don't believe me? Check it out:

5 months old.

Progress?

2009-09-16T20:15:00.002-05:00

Potty training is not really going forward or backward, but rather, in a whole new direction.

Yes, that's a diaper on her head.

Rainy Weekend

2009-09-14T09:29:00.005-05:00

We had lovely lovely loverly rain in Austin all weekend, which we desperately needed! The ground got a great soaking.

This meant we had to amuse ourselves in other ways:

This was great fun and I think we'll even take it outside one of these days since the weather is cooling off. Rory is in the bumbo in the wagon, btw.

Also, Rory tried rice cereal for the first time this weekend. Crazy girl, she's going ape about trying food so we're starting her a little earlier than we did Erin. She seems very ready and willing. Next stop? veggie city.

Last, at dinner last night, Erin announced that we "have poop in our bodies." There's nothing like a two-year old to just lay the facts out there.

2009-09-08T08:48:00.003-05:00

Outside: 77 degrees
Listening to: The Pogues
In the Bento: Sweet Potato and Lentil curry, basmati rice, baby carrots, strawberries

We had a good, if busy, labor day weekend.

A tree fell on our house; we're hoping it didn't do too much damage, but we need to have it cleared away. When we heard it fall, we were reading bedtime stories to Erin. David told her it was just an animal jumping across the roof (really, we hadn't been outside yet, and didn't know the situation). In typical two-year-old fashion, she became obsessed, asking more questions than we could ever answer before bedtime.

She was still talking about it the next day. By then, according to Erin, it was a raccoon named Walter who was wearing a hat and jumped off of the house and onto the sidewalk where he was heading home to get help from his mama.

I'd like to meet this Walter and talk to him about what really happened.

i want a new blog

2009-09-02T10:59:00.002-05:00

Outside: 85 degrees
Listening to: Passion Pit, Manners

I think it's time for another revamp. Why? Because there are so many categories of coverage I need - kids, writing, recipes, music, sewing projects, movies, books, things I just want to share that don't fit the other areas. Plus, I'm way behind on my links to other sites I love. Now that my iPhone has organized my RSS feeds so that I can keep up with other blogs, I'm getting a desire to reorder and organize my own little space on the internets.

I don't know when I'll get this accomplished and I'm going to investigate some new technologies to make it all more seamless and easy so that Facebook posting doesn't lure me away from posting the way it has lately.

A quick update on what's new in my world:

It's not a zillion degrees in Texas (yeehaw!)
I'm gearing up for a couch to 5k running program to get back in the running groove (and cuz all my peeps are doing it)
I'm working halftime at UT while I get used to having two wee ones
Wee one number one started Montessori
Wee one number two smiles a lot and is rolling over
I purchased a tin whistle and have visions of myself playing with an Irish band
To this end, I'm trying to get back to my Gaelic lessons
I am absolutely obsessed with The Mighty Boosh
This is my birthday month and I'm planning to drink beer at the Flying Saucer and eat food at Mandola's to celebrate
I saw the latest Harry Potter movie, but only once, which was a first for me
I can't decide what to be for Halloween, but I already have my scary movies lined up in my Netflix queue to celebrate the season
I'm intent on digging through the sewing projects piled up under the bed in my spare room - starting with the black and orange felt Halloween countdown calendar I designed. Stay tuned . . .

this was supervised

2009-08-24T10:53:00.006-05:00

Happy 4 month birthday, RoryBear (it was Sunday).

I'll get back to the writing soon, I've been composing the lines in my head. Next step: typing.

oooh, a long absence

2009-08-10T09:34:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the quiet on this front of late. I've been obsessed with Facebook (who isn't?). And, my computer crashed.

Here's a new pic of Rory - simply adorable:

And, I've been inspired to follow Anne's lead and try a little more writing and a little less visual shortcuts here on the blog, perhaps I'll even move it to another place so it doesn't get mixed in with the family updates.

I may try 5 lines in 5 minutes or 10 lines in 5 minutes, or 5 lines in 10 minutes like Anne. We'll see what's doable. And I can't promise I'll do it every day, but here's my first post:

Music has gotten stronger lately. As if my ear has suddenly opened up, I feel more desperately the angst, more deliciously the fine tune. It may well be the fatigue. Interestingly, I don't want to run off and be a singer songwriter like I used to suppose myself to be, back in the heyday of my youth. No, I want to simply be a listener on a slightly different plane, not unlike the way I way I want to enjoy a good beer instead of guzzling it. Did it take hitting forty to crash the musical party?

That was 7 lines in 6 minutes.

They grow up so fast!

2009-07-08T15:49:00.000-05:00

birthday!

2009-06-11T09:22:00.011-05:00

Erin is two. I can't believe it! She had a great birthday, in spite of teething (that just seems wrong!).

The two of us went out to breakfast at Whole Foods yesterday morning before I dropped her at school.

Then David, Rory and I showed up for her snack time in the afternoon with scones, whipped cream and berries (big hit among the two-year-old set!) and then took Erin for pizza where she was introduced to some classic video games like Frogger and Pole
Position.

After dinner, we drove home listening to ABBA (Erin's choice) and then opened presents. She got a full size Radio Flyer wagon from my parents, a toy piano, a stuffed frog and, perhaps the biggest hit, a copy of Lllama Llama Red Pajama from baby sister Rory. I wish I had the camera on her when she opened that one and cried out "Llama!". This is a book at her daycare so she's familiar with it. During the first reading, she acted out each and every page with enthusiasm.

There was simply too much celebrating yesterday to add cupcakes to the mix so Erin had her strawberry cupcake for breakfast (after some healthy yogurt).

Rory "talking"

2009-06-01T22:03:00.002-05:00

BTW, Rory wanted me to let you know that she was not, in fact, "stinky" - just wet, thank you very much.

more Erin!

2009-05-14T08:58:00.001-05:00

Mother's Day singing

2009-05-10T20:08:00.000-05:00

pictures!

2009-05-10T10:06:00.001-05:00

Some shots of the girls together first thing in the morning:

Rory sleeping in "superman" pose:

Erin's 'do:

And from another angle:

footage!

2009-05-04T12:09:00.002-05:00

Erin riding a mini-coaster at a birthday party this past Saturday:

And Rory having some floor/window time today:

The Baby Sister Song

2009-05-01T16:16:00.000-05:00

Catching Up

2009-04-27T20:20:00.003-05:00

She's here!!

For those of you not on Facebook, Rory Caroline Zuniga arrived at 8:23 am on her due date, April 23. She weighed 8 lbs, 5 oz and was 21 and 1/4 inches long. She is, of course, beautiful.

We were aiming for a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After C-section) and got about 15 hours into labor when it began to get intense and then it stalled. 15 hours of stop-start labor later and with our doctor's advice, we determined that a c-section was the way to go and it was a lucky thing too since I was in danger of rupturing around my old c-section scar (a very rare occurrence). Rory stayed up very high until Dr. Schneider went in to get her so thankfully she wasn't putting a lot of pressure on the uterine scar.

Here we are after the section.

I was pleased that I was back in the room and had her with me within a half hour. David stayed with her the whole time. Our doula Amy stayed with me.

Here's David with new babe.

And here she is sleeping in the hospital bassinet.

It was really hard being away from Erin. David's Mom and my parents were in town to keep her company and she did really really well for being only 22 months old and away from Dada for 2 nights and Mama for three.

On the day we took Rory home, Erin tried on her doctor look.

And here's proud big sis packing up baby sister.

Now Erin's having to learn that what baby sister mostly does is sleep. A lot.

Still, she loves giving Rory hugs - here's a three-way hug with David and the girls.

Another angle.

So, now we're a family of four. All doing well. I'm still recovering, Erin's coping as best as any toddler could, David is being a fabulous support and Rory - well, Rory's just a perfect baby. We feel supremely blessed.

still pregnant

2009-04-20T20:36:00.000-05:00

yes, still pregnant - I don't know what else I can do to get prepared!

5 days from due date

2009-04-18T20:53:00.002-05:00

Stiiiiiiiiiiiiill waiting.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T08:06:00.001-05:00

wee conductor

2009-04-09T10:09:00.002-05:00

So, Erin figured out a long time ago that "The ABC Song" and "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" are sung to the same tune. Last night, she made it clear that she wanted Dada to sing ABCs at the same time Mama sang Twinkle, Twinkle. She held her arms up like a conductor and meted out our respective parts. And we complied.

When we were done she clapped and cheered uproariously.

And speaking of music, she also likes to hold a plastic plate to her chest and say "guitar," pretending she's playing it.

The girl will clearly need music lessons one of these days.

inching closer

2009-04-07T19:41:00.002-05:00

Here's the newest Zuniga, at 37 weeks, 4 days gestation:

I love this picture. Amazing.

We took a tour of the hospital on Sunday evening and took Erin with us so that it won't feel so unfamiliar to her when she comes to visit "baby sister". She was full of energy and spent a lot of time running around an LDR room. I had to give her a set of headphones to keep her occupied and away from a stethoscope she wanted desperately to play with.

She seems pretty excited about baby sister and I'm afraid she might be a little disappointed with the lumpy newborn stage.

I'm officially waiting for labor to start, which I never really experienced with Erin since she arrived at 36 weeks. I have practice contractions, sometimes quite intense. I can't sleep for very long at a stretch and I feel anxious. It feels like there's a whole new world on the other side of this birth - for the four of us - and I know it'll be here soon.

I just hope I can get all my errands run before it's upon us!

Meant to post this yesterday

2009-04-02T19:18:00.004-06:00

It was a year ago yesterday that I set a goal of blogging daily about Erin's development. Little did I know that I would be pregnant again in, oh, about four months. That has since derailed the daily blogging, though I do try to keep up (it's just that in the last, late stages of this pregnancy, fatigue often wins the evening battles).

Still, this has captured a lot of amazing changes in the last year. Here's Erin last April:

And here she was this evening (eating a digestive and totally aware that her picture is being taken):

Wow. That's all I can say. One year and look at the growth.

I also notice that she's wearing the same shirt as in the post below. That's because she loves polka dots. She also loves Bob Marley. And pasta, playground slides and birthday cake. One of her favorite words is "population." She also loves rhyming. Yesterday, when I was speaking of my doctor, Dr. Schneider, Erin chimed in "Dr. Schneider, apple cider". That's my girl - a real little person with her own personality.

And just wait for what next April brings - we'll have a one year old and an almost three year old. Holy hell.

2009-03-27T19:25:00.002-06:00

So, this hair is adorable:

another angle:

And from behind (as she's feeding Sadie chocolate chip bunny grahams):

But let me tell you, meltdown ensued when we tried to get the "ponies" (as Erin calls them) out of her hair. I think I may have to ask her daycare teachers to refrain from putting her hair up.

I was the same way as a kid - extremely sensitive headed.

It's just so sad because I'll say it again - that hair is adorable!

toddler's view of the world

2009-03-25T08:20:00.002-06:00

So this morning, Erin was getting in the car and she referred to the wheels as the cars "feet" and the side mirrors as its "ears"!

pictures!

2009-03-24T19:55:00.003-06:00

Here's Erin at her friend Kate's birthday party:

(taking off her shoes - way to get comfortable)

(eating chocolate cake)

(still eating cake)

And here she is making "duck face", which she does on demand these days. :)

dandyblows

2009-03-20T20:33:00.002-06:00

This is what Erin called dandelions today. [heart melting from the cuteness]

Today's pregnancy diet

2009-03-19T18:54:00.002-06:00

I'll say it up front - it's just not easy to always eat healthy. Even when pregnant.

-half of a Taste No Evil blueberry bliss muffin (sharing with Erin)
-half of a carton of strawberry yogurt (sharing with Erin)
-queso and chips at Curra's
-potato, bean, and cheese breakfast taco at Curra's
-iced tea
-chocolate malt from Amy's
-gingerbread cookie from Mr. Natural
-half of a strawberry lemonade from Mr. Natural (shared with Erin)
-Odwalla Mojito Mambo
-pumpkin pancakes made from Kerbey Lane mix
-watermelon
-glass of 2% milk
-easter bubble gum eggs
-popsicles

And, of course, lots and lots of water.

Thank god for New Chapter prenatals. On the other hand, it was like a took a culinary tour of South Austin today.

Imagination

2009-03-18T20:40:00.003-06:00

So, I still haven't retrieved my camera. Ugh. Spring break is turning into a busy busy time!

Erin's been upping the imagination ante lately. Chunks of melon, cheese puffs, crayons - these become phones and cars. Today she made a car out of ginger snap while she rode in the grocery cart at Central Market. When she zoomed it around the edge of the cart handle she called out "Up a hill! Up a hill!".

Note: in my pregnancy-induced forgetful state I later ate that very same ginger snap when she offered it to me.

She's been making "dinner" in the yard by mixing leaves, dirt and broken pieces of windchimes in her bucket.

And today, she carried two rocks into the house in her pocket, took them out, touched them together and said "kiss kiss".

quick note

2009-03-17T10:30:00.001-06:00

I left my digital camera at a 2 year old's birthday party and a I need to get it back! As soon as I do, I'll be posting pics. I know I caught a shot of Erin eating chocolate cake. She's learned to say "chocolate", btw. I knew the day was coming. :)

I hear the secrets that she keeps . . .

2009-03-09T09:32:00.002-06:00

So, Erin's been talking in her sleep. Evidence, I'm sure, of the turning of the developmental cogs in her fast accelerating understanding of language.

During Saturday's nap, David heard her call out, "puppies" and "feet."

Last night, I heard "door" "up" "go" "no" "Katie" and finally "Mama". I think she was partially awake for the last one.

And yesterday evening before going to bed (er, that's before attempting to go to bed. Hyper Daylight Savings Resistant Girl was up until 9pm!), she wanted to follow David out of the bedroom to the kitchen for milk. She stood by the bedroom door saying "open, open" and when I began to open the door for her, she twirled out of the way and said giddily, "Watch out, Erin!"

Yay, pictures!!

2009-03-04T19:40:00.002-06:00

I borrowed a friend's memory card reader, so I finally have pics to display!

Early morning Erin:

Cool chica:

Grey lady (for grey day at her school):

tortilla fiend!

At a friend's birthday party:

Look how big she's getting. She looks like a real little girl here - and she crawled up on top of this chair all by herself.

In other Erin news, we just got word today that she got into the preschool we wanted her in for next fall. Woo! I can't believe we have to plan like this - she's not even 2! But I'm happy happy happy - it's a wonderful place and David and I are terribly enamored of it.

I remembered

2009-03-03T21:01:00.002-06:00

That is, I remembered to get the cord out of the nightstand before Erin went to sleep - only, it wasn't in the nightstand. Ugh. I think it must be in my computer case at work. So, sadly, no pictures again today. Can I blame this kind of forgetfulness/scatterbrained-ness on pregnancy??

I promise . . .

2009-03-02T19:49:00.002-06:00

That I will remember to get the camera's card reader out of the nightstand BEFORE I put Erin to bed tomorrow night. That way, I can upload the adorable pics I have taken over the last week.

Also, tonight, I asked Erin what her Dada's name was and she called out cheerily, "David!"

the doctor was right

2009-02-27T10:57:00.003-06:00

So when I queried my doc about the combination of pregnancy and picking up/carrying around a 25 pound toddler, she assured me that I couldn't hurt the baby. She stressed these last two words emphatically. The baby. Her meaning, of course, was that I could hurt myself.

And I have. Ouch. I've re-aggravated an old S-I yoga injury. Now, I'm having trouble walking. This is making it even harder to pick up/carry around a 25 pound toddler. When Erin gets into one of her "melty" stages (as in getting close to meltdown), all she wants is for me to walk her around in circles. Six or seven go-rounds (through the living room, kitchen, breakfast area, den and back to living room) seems to calm her but man, has that gotten hard! Nothing else seems to work - pushing her in the stroller, having David carry her for the circumambulations, or simply sitting in our comfy rocker and rocking our way through the stage.

I should at least get some Tibetan prayer wheels so we can make it worth our slow and painful while.

I'm going to try a chiropractor, which I've never been fully comfortable with. If that doesn't work, the doc has recommended physical therapy. After 12 weeks of therapy with a running injury, I know I don't like that!

We're in the 33rd week. Sometimes April can't come soon enough and sometimes it feels far too close. Sigh.

hugs

2009-02-25T21:12:00.003-06:00

Erin was in a hugging mood tonight. She saw a picture of a hug in one of her books (well, actually it was three monkeys arm in arm in Hand Hand Fingers Thumb that she designated as a "hug"). So, then she hugged Dada. And Mama. And Sadie.

And then she proceeded to hug the wall, the giant stuffed chicken, a Snoopy doll, the table, the chair, a box that came from Amazon, the sofa, and her two toddler chairs.

She then wanted to hug the cat. The cat's not so good at hugging. We're still working on this, especially because her hugs often include pulling tails and feet.

Cuteness in words

2009-02-22T21:01:00.003-06:00

Erin's vocabulary is still expanding by leaps and bounds - we thought she was moving fast months ago but lately she's been going crazy with the words, words, words!

Still, in her lovable 20-month way, she doesn't get all of them quite right but what she comes up with is, of course, adorable. Here are a few of my latest faves:

"olly-by" for lullaby
"pokee-doe" for polka dot (she LOVES polka dots, btw)
"peekey-boo" for peek-a-boo

Also, she requests a few songs thusly:

"more? star?" means Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
"'pider. more." means Itsy Bitsy Spider
"beep beep beep, car" means The Wheels on the Bus (as in "the horn on the bus goes beep beep beep."

Her latest crazes? Owls, Pat-a-cake (in a nursery rhyme book we checked out of the library), her Raggedy Ann doll (whom she calls "Katie"), pouring water into bowls and bottles in the bathtub, outside (going outside, noticing that pictures were taken outside, noting that Sadie has gone outside [to pee pee]), tacos. The latter is especially strong. When I ask Erin what she wants to eat, no matter the meal, she says "tacos!" exuberantly. Which actually works in Texas due to the breakfast taco craze. Her favorites? egg and cheese or bean and cheese.

She's also learned to correctly identify cold. She's known hot for a long time (and often accompanies it by pursing her lips and blowing - as in, blowing on hot food) but now she tells me that the diaper wipes are cold or that she is cold in the car. I know as time passes that she will be able to tell me her wants and desires, like and dislikes, and eventually moods. It's amazing to watch the transformation.

And speaking of emotions, she's a little caught up in "sad" and "cry" right now. In Mama Do You Love Me?, the mother says she will be sad if the little girl ran away and stayed with the wolves. Erin is intrigued. She says "Mama sad" over and over. And sometimes, when she perceives that something hasn't quite gone right, she asks "Mama sad?" or "Dada sad?". I cuddle her and assure her that I am not sad, but it makes me cautious about using that phrase too often, especially in a disciplinary way. She's also very keen about pointing out when others are crying and will even say "Erin cry" when she has been upset herself.

I can see the little empathetic wheels turning . . .

Putting the word out about little Ike

2009-02-17T15:41:00.001-06:00

And we think we've had it hard with our sleep issues. Everytime I read Kari's posts, I tear up.

Day ???, Insanely Behind

2009-02-15T19:38:00.004-06:00

I think we have hit the point - the one where, even though I pledged last April 1 to blog daily about Erin for a year, it is clear that I can't keep up the pace.

I think I'm going to have to go back to sporadic blogging, which will sometimes be daily and sometimes, like now, when I'm feeling c-r-u-s-h-e-d, will be not so regular. The pregnancy is the not-so-proverbial truck full of logs that broke the camel's back.

Things are, overall, though, going okay. Erin is still very clingy, but our new bed routine seems to be working okay. There was a moment last week when it seemed to quit working for us, but things turned around. The only problem now is that Erin doesn't stay in her little bed all night. Every night between 12:30 and 1:30 she crawls into bed with me. I don't mind really. Except that because I'm pregnant, when awakened I find that I have to pee like crazy - which means I hold it until she falls back asleep. Not good while pregnant, I know. There are also the nights that she's practicing being Flopsy McFlopsalot. And, I still don't know what we'll do when the next little one comes home.

She's definitely teething again. Our doctor has also confirmed that she has allergies (and cedar's been high lately). And then there's the new baby. Whenever I try to talk to Erin about impending changes, she won't even make eye contact with me. How's that for a smartypants?

This will pass. Things will change. I know this. But I'm so freaking exhausted that I can't keep that in focus very easily.

Hope everyone had a happy Valentine's. Listening to Erin attempt to say Happy Valentine's was one of the most adorable things I've ever heard. And she pulled in a bevy of cards from friends and neighbors and family. Sweet girl.

Day 323, Catching up - pictures!

2009-02-09T12:47:00.002-06:00

This was from a few weeks ago.

Erin's teachers are SO much better at getting the pigtails in than I am!

And yesterday, we took Erin on the Zilker Zephyr. You can tell she was thrilled.

She did perk up a little after when we took her to play on the playscape.

She didn't fully perk up though until we took her to Trudy's for queso and tacos. Ah, a child after my own Tex-Mex heart.

Day 319, a step forward

2009-02-05T14:28:00.002-06:00

For those of you who've been following our sleep issues, here's a post I made to AustinMamas this morning:

So, just a quick update - last night, we made a big production of moving Erin's crib mattress into our bedroom and setting up a special "bed" for her in our room. We cleaned and organized (read: toddler-proofed) the room. And then David carried the mattress, I carried the linens and she carried all of her little crib buddies down the hall parade-style. We had also gone to Bed Bath and Beyond to get her a special pillow. She loved the new bed.

I laid down beside her at 7:30 and it took her a little while to drift off to sleep (I imagine everything just felt new) but hallelujah I wasn't having to sit in a chair and hold her around my pregnant belly. And we had no crying/screaming/hysterics. I was able to leave the room at some point, check email, have a snack and chat with David. She slept soundly until 3:15 when she called out for me and seemed about to cry. Going with the flow, I just scooped her up and put her beside me in bed where she fell right back asleep and slept until 6am.

It's been three weeks since I've had such a peaceful night. I felt like a new woman this morning. And I felt like I had my sweet daughter back. I can honestly say that now I believe all of you guys who said we'll get through it.

The next step will be allowing Dada to put her to bed instead of me.

Fingers crossed that we're in a new phase. And I guess we'll just figure out what to do once the new baby arrives. I can't imagine all four of us sleeping in one room, but I guess we'll see!

And it's such a nice day. I want to go the Shady Grove and sip a Shady Thang. Darn pregnancy.

Day 318, this is not about sleep

2009-02-04T14:57:00.001-06:00

I just had to post this from a Cookie Loungers FB email I received:

Something just out today is our made-to-order Dark Belgian Chocolate Mookie (our answer to what's a cupcake) filled with molten chocolate and paired with Vanilla Bean ice cream, Cherry Compote and topped with Toasted Almonds and chocolate drizzles. Awesome. $5.50 hot out of the oven.

Wow. I so want this.

I really believe, too, that this will solve our sleep problems.

way behind

2009-02-02T21:10:00.004-06:00

I know I'm way behind on blogging, but honestly, I just spent an hour tonight crying and trying to put Erin to bed (yes, that was me crying - at times we were both crying). She is more clingy than I ever imagined, seems not to want to be held by anyone but me right now, and I can't put her in the crib without waking her (due to being very very pregnant). After four tries tonight, exhausted and at my wit's end, I handed her off to David.

She has quieted down now, after 45 minutes of torturous screaming, and I feel like total crap.

Everyone keeps saying, this will pass. I keep saying, when???

And never mind what I said above, the crying just started again. Poor David.

Days 307-309, pic

2009-01-26T20:47:00.003-06:00

It's been a rough couple of days with our sleep issues (I feel pretty sure that Erin is sensing the looming changes associated with my pregnancy), but she's still awful cute!

This is her "wearing" her penguin visor that we use for rinsing hair.

p.s. Anyone have any ideas for getting that caulking cleaned? I don't imagine re-caulking is in the plans for quite some time!

Day 306, too tired to post

2009-01-23T19:51:00.002-06:00

We're in a little bit of sleep hell. Last night was awful. Truly awful. Erin was awake off and on throughout the night - and if she wasn't being held by me or kicking me in the face while she lay in bed with me, she was screaming something awful.

Tonight it took an hour to get her into the crib and asleep. I dread dread dread the night that may be in store for us.

At least I got a plate of enchiladas at Maudie's tonight and I just made some lemonade because I was craving it. I'm going to do a little reading and try to get some sleep.

I guess this is a post after all. What do you know.

Day 305, caught in the act

2009-01-22T20:18:00.002-06:00

As I mentioned yesterday, Erin loves to spread stuff around the house.

Here she is reaching for books on the nightstand.

Watching them fall to the floor.

And then looking for what she can pull down next.

It's an endlessly fascinating activity.

Days 302-304, parenting

2009-01-21T20:34:00.002-06:00

Parenting. We're in the throes of it. Seriously? Like, here's a list of things from this week that prove it:

1. I haven't slept through the night in, oh, about two weeks. This is due mostly to a coughing toddler who wakes herself up.
2. I spent two solid hours in the doctor's office this morning trying to keep a 19 month old entertained.
3. I spent 15 minutes flying down the freeway to our daycare afterward so that said 19 month old would not fall asleep on the way (thus ruining lunch and nap and an afternoon where I could get some work done).
4. Yes, I was very late to work because of all of this.
5. I just had cereal for dinner. Again.
6. I had no idea my house could be this messy. Erin finds every stray scrap of anything, pulls it out, perhaps decides it's "twash" and distributes it from end to end. This includes: maxi pads, underwear, crayons, stuff that belongs to the dog, clean and dirty laundry, mail, random papers, toys, shoes, stuff that's piled on my dresser in an attempt to get it out of her grasp, rubbermaid containers - I could go on and on. All of the above and more is spread throughout my house.
7. It did not phase me this evening that I had baby poop on my jeans.
8. I did take the jeans off once it was discovered (thankfully, quickly) and simply went pantsless for the rest of the evening.
9. I often do not have the energy to watch a movie - two hours is simply far too much time to spend on one activity most evenings.
10. And 10pm feels very very very late these days.
11. Loading the dishwasher and the washing machine are never-ending tasks.
12. I was proud that Erin put a coherent sentence together tonight in the form of "[name deleted to protect the innocent] bite." Especially since he's the one I suspected left those teeth marks on her forehead.
13. I feel like I keep the baby Motrin brand in business.
14. I buy more milk these days than I ever thought possible.
15. I actually bought creamed corn today - in an attempt to get a vegetable other than cheese into Erin. Yes, cheese is a vegetable to Erin - it is, in fact, all four food groups and more.
16. I find it hard to breathe with a 27 week fetus inside of me and a 25 pound toddler on top of me.
17. The words "bedtime" can send shivers down my spine. It's been so tenuous lately.
18. My car is a disaster - it is filled with baby jackets, stray toys, bits of goldfish and crackers, and tissues. Lots and lots and lots of tissues.
19. It is also covered in bird poop. I park under trees so that the inside doesn't get too hot so that when I go pick Erin up for the drive home I have some chance of a non-cranky child. I know it's winter. Habits are hard to break.
20. I no longer have any privacy.

I could keep going. Sure, I could. But I'll stop for now. Thanks for letting me vent.

Days 300 and 301, toddler photography

2009-01-18T19:44:00.002-06:00

Erin and I were sick all weekend. And cranky, the both of us.

Yesterday, though, we were playing around with the camera in bed, which made for some weird angles.

Here's the pic Erin took. I guess it's too early for any Ansel Adams comparisons.

Day 299, Fun with Pigtails

2009-01-16T19:49:00.001-06:00

Day 298, germs

2009-01-16T19:46:00.001-06:00

[posted a day late]

Erin's got a new cold - the cough, the runny nose, thankfully no fever, but the grumps, definitely the grumps.

None of us are sleeping well because of it and we're all feeling a little rough around the edges.

Days 295-297, product promotion

2009-01-14T10:28:00.002-06:00

This doesn't have much to do with Erin, except that I like the idea of giving her vegan cookies instead of regular ones, but I have discovered, truly, one of the best store-bought cookies I have ever tasted in my life.

They taste homemade. They taste fresh. They are yummier than any other store-bought cookie I have ever had and yummier than most bakery cookies I have had. Because they're vegan, they don't leave that greasy after-taste or leave you filling over-full. They are still sweet (vegan sugars), and overall really really awesome!

What are these amazing cookies?

Uncle Eddie's Vegan Cookies. I specifically have been eating the peanut butter chocolate chip.

Here in Austin, I got them at Wheatsville, though I believe I've seen them at Whole Foods too. You can even order them through Amazon. Go! Try!

Erin will be trying one on the drive home today (food as traffic distraction).

Days 292-294, kick ass

2009-01-11T20:07:00.002-06:00

This was a busy weekend.

First up was a surprise for David - an Austin Kick Ass Award. He didn't know for sure that he was getting it (thought I think he suspected). I arranged the babysitter ahead of time, took him out for an early dinner, and tried to "casually" drop by the event at Book People. He caught on pretty fast.

But that was only part of the surprise. His best friend Marion flew in for the event and the weekend to really REALLY surprise him. David was blown away. It was awesome.

Here he is receiving the award from Spike:

And here he is with Marion at Curra's.

Erin loved her Curra's breakfast taco.

As you can see.

And she also loved playing with the sugar and creamer packets.

Erin also turned 19 months this weekend. I took her down to Whole Earth Provisions one afternoon to entertain her. Check out what a kid wonderland this is.

And later, Marion and David put up her new swingset, a Christmas gift from my parents.

During construction, Erin decided to wear a planter as a hat, creating a chimney sweep effect.

She got a little tired watching the guys work.

But she helped supervise too:

Checking out the swing we're going to add to the swingset.

Success! It's not yet complete here, but we let Erin have an early ride before final completion.

It was great seeing Marion; Erin loved him. And thanks to all the friends who came out and made Friday night so special for David!

Day 291, night out

2009-01-09T12:09:00.001-06:00

[posted one day late]

I actually got to go out last night. And though I didn't stay out too late (b/c it's always a given that Erin will be up around, oh, 5:30 or so) it was so nice - even if I had to give myself a little internal shove to get out the door.

Days 278-290, wha??

2009-01-07T19:44:00.002-06:00

I guess it was going back to work that made me drop the blogging ball. And I haven't taken a picture since Saturday.

I was going to post last night, but we had Major Toddler Meltdown (MTM) at our house. David and I were seriously in recovery mode for about 2 hours after. The good news is that Erin slept until 6:45 this morning.

Today, I'm having trouble breathing. All weekend, I think this baby was on top of my bladder; apparently now she's moved to my lungs.

It's a crazy, pregnant world in the Zuniga house.

Days 275-277, last days of vacation

2009-01-04T19:19:00.002-06:00

So, that's it. Vacation is officially over, really - since this is feeling like any other Sunday night. It was a cold day, so we mostly stayed inside, and Erin was teething, so tensions were a little high. Well, it couldn't all be perfect. In fact, it seemed to go downhill from New Year's. Hmmm, that was the day after Erin got her latest vaccinations.

Erin's been all about hats lately, because her new baby doll wears one. So at some moment in the day, everyone has to put on hats. Erin's sense of humor is definitely emerging because she thinks it's really funny to wear my hat, which is too big. (speaking of humor, she also thinks it's hilarious to pretend that things that don't need to be thrown away are "trash." This will send her into a peal of giggles!)

I just think she looks awfully cute in my (too big) leopard hat:

In other news, today was the first day in about two weeks that I steered clear of the cookies and candy. Really REALLY good idea at this point.

Day 274, happy happy

2009-01-01T21:11:00.003-06:00

Well, New Year's never turns out to be quite as fun as I hope. That just seems to be a standing tradition for me. Oh well. Erin was in a mood today - most likely a carryover from yesterday's vaccinations.

We also spent about an hour and a half putting her Kettler trike together. And then we took her for a ride which went okay at first, but for some reason when we turned the corner off of our street, all toddler sanity went out the window - I think it was post-vaccine crankiness plus fatigue.

After the major toddler melt-down and a nap, we attempted to go out to lunch. We tried brunch at a pub but they had almost no vegetarian fare and wouldn't let us order off of the menu. We decided to go elsewhere, but while we were making this decision Erin crawled under a table, stood up abruptly and banged her head hard.

So we tried a restaurant across the street and they had an hour wait. During all of this, my pregnant hunger is increasing by leaps and bounds. We ended up driving back toward home and found that our standard Chinese take-out place was open for lunch until 2:30. It was 2:35. Thankfully, they graciously let us in to eat. By this time I was famished and wolfed down my lunch.

On the way home from lunch, Erin poured water all over herself and her car seat (and giggled like crazy). We changed her, got her a new diaper and a snack (since she hadn't eaten anything in the restaurant but a bite of fortune cookie). And right after snack, her diaper leaked something crazy. Still don't know why - some of these just remain a mystery. So, we changed her again.

Playing outside this afternoon, Erin dumped a bucket of dirt on her head. Which I don't mind, but when we tried to wash her hair this evening, Miss Crankypants emerged again and she threw a fit. So, her hair is still not completely clean. I did my best with a squirming, screaming, wet toddler.

Also, I made hoppin' john. Which was good. But also stressful. I didn't realize that I had to cook the peas before they went into the pot (they were refrigerated, not dried). So that threw my timing off. At least we got some of them down for the new year. Erin refused to even taste a pea - though she was very good about calling out "pease" upon finding each of the few I tossed into her sweet potato and apple.

Still, I'm calling this the Year of the Baby Sister. Because it will be. I'm 24 weeks pregnant and inching ever closer to the start of the third trimester. Yikes.

Double Yikes.

Here's a few catch-up photos.

First up, a new outfit from Grammy and Grandpa:

Next, snack time at the zoo yesterday - for Erin, the goat and the llama (that's my friend Lucinda's daughter Naomi doing the animal feeding). Erin is, of course, the little one eating goldfish next to Daddy.

We got this together this morning:

And here's Erin going for a ride - pre-meltdown:

I hope everyone's new year was a little more calm than ours - or at least didn't involve so many wet toddler outfits.

Days 272-273, . . .

2008-12-31T14:22:00.002-06:00

Erin is wearing five band-aids. Two Hello Kitty ones from home that cover the bug bites she keeps wanting to scratch and three Snoopy ones from the doctor that cover where she received her vaccinations.

Yes, it was vaccination day - late, since these were her 15 month ones. I just feel so awful subjecting her to the process. We declined the hep B but pretty much stayed on schedule with the others because they sounded so serious - things like pneumonia and pertussis and diptheria. I still don't really understand why they don't spread them out more. Personally, I'd prefer to have her get one shot on three occasions then three all together. You should have heard her screaming "Mama!" by the third. Well, actually, thankfully, you didn't have to.

We took her to the zoo right after to make up for it (our little Austin rehabilitation zoo) and she slowly perked up. By the time we got home, she was a in a good mood and hungry - shoveling pumpkin pie and macaroni and cheese into her mouth.

She's napping now, whew.

And later, I'll try to post a zoo pic.

Day 271, weather swings

2008-12-29T21:20:00.003-06:00

So, this is how I dressed Erin for outside play this morning (temps in the high 30s):

By 4pm, it was 70 and sunshine-y. I'm trying not to complain, but I grow weary of the wild swings. Makes me think of Mr. Toad, in a weather-y sort of way.

Forgive me, I'm feeling sort of Mole-ish over this.

p.s. Isn't Erin cute? I think this is one of my favorite ever pics.

Day 270, playnasium

2008-12-28T19:00:00.003-06:00

We took Erin to Goin' Bananas (a "playnasium") today and she had a blast. Just check out the pics below.

In the toddler area:

Resting with Mama:

Pushing a grocery cart around the place:

Heading into an inflatable pirate ship with Daddy:

She was quite nervous about the 3 and under inflatable she had to play in by herself, but once she got the hang of it, she loved it!

Getting crazy silly:

Brief rest:

Back to crazy silly:

In the boat:

Days 268 and 269, back to normal

2008-12-27T21:11:00.002-06:00

Yesterday we laid out Erin's new letter and number mat that she got from David's parents. This is the first step in turning our tiled den into a play area so that we can get our front living room somewhat toy-free. Yay!

Erin spent some time today on the phone talking to who knows. She's on the phone as much as a toddler can be, chattering away and making beeps and buzzes. Note that this is my phone. So far, substituting her toy phone with my real one isn't always effective.

Also today, we purchased this cool visor to use in the tub for hair washing. It's designed to keep the suds and water out of her eyes. It worked like a charm this evening and Erin was thrilled when the water didn't wash over her face during the rinse cycle!

This was a set of two. She's wearing the fish here. I was required to wear the penguin during bath time tonight.

Day 267, merry merry

2008-12-25T19:07:00.002-06:00

Mornings are always a little magical in this house (if not a little hectic sometimes) - Erin is definitely a morning person like me and though I don't like the early early early rising, it is nice to have some time in those pre-dawn hours just for being together.

And Christmas morning is especially magical - especially now that Erin is getting old enough, if not yet to fully understand, at least to get excited about new toys.

Santa definitely paid us a visit. Note the stockings hung with care:

I was afraid we'd be tearing into these at about 5:30, but Erin decided to sleep until 6:30 - what a Christmas gift to Mama and Dada!

Here she is checking out her new doll and accessories.

We also caught some video of the Santa discoveries (sorry it's dark - it was 6:30 am).

She was especially intrigued by the stroller and wanted to ride in it herself. She would attempt to sit in it, look up and plaintively call, "ride ride".

And because baby doll was wearing a hat, Erin wanted to put one on too. Note that I'm literally carrying two children most of the time.

Later in the morning after breakfast, it was time for the stocking.

Finding the bounty inside!

self-portrait with Mama - you can probably tell we're both a little sleepy here. It's about 9:30 am, 3 hours past Erin's wake time.

Her new little cell phone was a big hit. Now maybe she won't need to play with mine all the time.

Panda puppet!

Opening presents.

Taking baby for a walk in the cul de sac.

And we caught video, where Erin is obsessed with trash on the street.

Day 266, Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T19:05:00.002-06:00

What a lovely, relaxing day we've had here in the Zuniga house!

Here's what we did:

-Early morning trip to Starbucks for decaf mochas while it was still grey and foggy outside.
-breakfast of Crispix/Christmas cookies/coffee/cider
-lovely walk in the neighborhood
-visits to neighbors to deliver gifts
-lunch of tacos
-naps
-more visits to neighbors
-playing outside in sunshine
-even more visits to neighbors
-dinner of grilled cheese, fries, and tomato soup
-opening Erin's Christmas eve pajamas
-bubble bath
-reading Twas the Night Before Christmas
-bedtime

The dishes are washed, the tree is lit, Christmas music is playing in the background, and David is wrapping gifts in his study. We are going to watch Elf in a little bit and get Christmas ready for tomorrow.

Happy Christmas to all.

Here are some pics:

Erin's ready to stroll with two Snoopys and a Buddha baby

Reading Twas the Night Before Christmas in her new holiday pajamas

Giving Sadie a "hug"

Looking for a ball under the sofa with Dada

Going "night night"

Last burst of energy before bedtime

Truly sleepy. Ready for "ilk" (milk/bottle)

Day 265, cookies!

2008-12-23T19:43:00.002-06:00

So, cookies is one of Erin's favorite words. She uses it to describe crackers and sometimes cake or cupcakes. It's like the quintessential good treat.

And what's better than a plate of good old-fashioned Christmas cookies?

We let Erin have one of these this afternoon (sans icing), and she went a little nuts - running all over the house roaring and giggling. I guess there really is a difference in the organic "baby cookies" we buy at the grocery and the real thing!

Day 264, ho ho ho

2008-12-22T22:35:00.003-06:00

Someone must know it's only 3 days until Christmas. She put this hat on all by herself with no prompting from Mama.

Later, we were going to the post office and grocery store in about 30 degree weather, so we had to bundle up! Note Erin's "purse" too. ;)

Day 263, cold front

2008-12-21T20:06:00.003-06:00

Erin had a busy day today, in spite of staying inside all day since it really didn't get above 40. I took not a single picture, though.

Erin helped make Christmas cookies, took a long nap (and I completed the last of my Christmas shopping during said nap), enticed the dog into chasing her around the house (by holding a cookie in her hand), and played and played and played.

We also ordered Chinese take-out and Erin got her first ever dish - veggie fried rice minus the onions. It was a pretty big hit - except for the stringy stuff. And she is a new fan of eggroll sauce!

Also, we've had an exciting development - Erin is becoming very attached to her Dad. She was quite perturbed when he was out of her sight today. I know riding around on his shoulders has helped facilitate her new attachment, but it's more than that too. He's popular!

Day 262, Wimberley

2008-12-20T19:07:00.005-06:00

We were supposed to spend the weekend in San Antonio, but since Erin was sick last weekend and we've had a rough week sleep-wise (you parents of young children know what I'm talking about!), we decided to can it at the last minute.

Instead, we made a day trip to Wimberley, just 35 minutes from South Austin. We had never stopped before (only driven through). And what a lovely little town it is. We barely skimmed the surface of the shops and did not make it down to the park and nature trail - things to do next time!

Here we are at Wimberley Cafe on the Square:

Erin found her dream car in a toy shop (and made us move all of the stuffed animals who were occupying it so that she could give it a try).

She also tried out the fire truck (after I finally got her to understand that I could not ride on it - I doubt it's made to withstand my pregnant self).

I picked up some last minute stocking stuffers at another toy shop (Blue Bacon Toys - fun!) and indulged in chocolate covered cherries (the real, chewy kind) while David braved the cupcake waffle cone (wow, is that decadent!) at the Wimberley Valley Candy Company.

Erin took her nap on the trip back to Austin and since it extended beyond 35 minutes, we just kept driving and ended up in downtown visiting Book People and Whole Foods. I have one more gift to get and my shopping is done! hallelujah.

Later in the afternoon, Erin learned how to ride on Dada's shoulders.

We only had one tiny mishap with the lamp. We'll learn.

Now we just have to get prepared for the cold front that's blowing in tonight. It's supposed to be 29 by 8am. Right now it's 70. Yes, Virginia, that is 41 degrees of difference.

Day 261, a day in her pajamas

2008-12-19T19:39:00.003-06:00

Erin's pajamas were so comfy and cute and since she's on vacation after all, we just let her wear them all day.

Here she is gathering up Christmas hats for all (as well as the case to Miracle on 34th Street - on which she correctly id's Santa, if not Natalie Wood).

Later, she went to a Christmas party (in her pajamas) and Christmas shopping with her dad (in her pajamas)

And here she is (dangerously) putting our cat Jackson night-night with a pillow - you may be able to spot his tail sticking out the edge. Yikes!

After picking up Sadie from the groomer, playing outside and having dinner in her pajamas, we gave her a bath and put her in different pajamas. Aren't pajamas a wonderful thing?

Day 260, the f-bomb

2008-12-18T13:22:00.001-06:00

Yes, Erin dropped it today - sans the "f" - right after she heard me say it when I spilled my soup all over the table and onto the floor. Even without the initial consonant, I knew what she was saying and why am I surprised when she repeats everything else I say?

I knew this time was coming. Time to be more careful around those listening ears!!

Day 259, brown rice over cookies

2008-12-17T19:32:00.003-06:00

Though she's not always this health conscious, tonight Erin wanted more brown rice instead of a cookie for dessert. Of course I made the rice, on the recommendation from a fellow vegetarian mama, with tamari and nutritional yeast. She goes crazy for the stuff! She was shoving it in her mouth and trying to shove it in mine too. It's just so good she has to share!

Hopefully this made up for the three slices of American cheese she ate this morning during snack.

Days 257-258, feeling much better!

2008-12-16T20:17:00.004-06:00

Erin's been feeling so much better the last two days. She had an especially happy happy evening tonight. We had our little Christmas tree lit, ate tamales for dinner, and played with legos and books. She also took a long bath (with bubbles! a rare treat!). It's nice to have a happy baby back again!

Also, after dinner tonight, trying on Mama's leopard hat . . .

. . . produced some wild hair!

Days 254-256, sick babe (again!)

2008-12-14T19:22:00.002-06:00

Well, Erin came home from daycare Friday with 103.5 temperature. Poor little thing. She was utterly miserable. We canceled the babysitter for Saturday and missed two cookie exchanges this weekend. Erin was feeling better after lunch on Sunday, so we braved the mall to see Santa. Pictures below.

On Friday evening, as she half-slept fitfully on top of me in our bed, I pulled up pictures of puppies on the computer to ease her fitfulness. She lay looking at the computer, eyes half closed, and every so often, a wan and hoarse little voice called out weakly, "puuuupy". It seemed to ease her discomfort a bit.

A moment of feeling a little better on Saturday:

Playing in the leaves Sunday morning:

Santa:

Checking out a giant windchime at Great Outdoors when we stopped to get our (little) Christmas tree:

She was in bed by 6:30 this evening - exhausted, coughing, teething - but thankfully not running fever.

Day 253, potluck

2008-12-11T21:01:00.002-06:00

I don't have pics, but Erin had a great time at her little school's holiday potluck tonight. I could not be prodded to cook or bake, but I picked up two pies from Sweetish Hill. The Linzertorte was especially delish!! Who knew?

My only concern is that Erin didn't eat enough. She wolfed down a handful of mac and cheese, nibbled on a veggie egg roll and ate a fig newton. That's all I can say for sure that went in. But she had a great time wandering the church hall and checking out all of her little buddies. She even climbed up the stairs!

I wish I'd thought to bring the camera.

Day 252, 18 months! plus, snow in South Austin!

2008-12-10T21:43:00.002-06:00

Yes, it snowed in South Austin - which is telling since the communities north of Austin sometimes get dustings and we don't. I tried to point out the snow to Erin this morning, but I don't think it really sunk in. Someday . . . (it's hard when you live in Texas).

Erin, by the way, turned 18 months today.

We had cookies to celebrate.

She's still getting used to chocolate. But these cookies were mostly plain shortbread, I just drizzled chocolate on the top. It left quite a mess in its wake!

Happy 18 month birthday, Bear Bear. A whole year and a half! I'm sorry you have to go see the doctor this Friday as part of the momentous occasion.

Day 251, climbing

2008-12-09T21:36:00.002-06:00

It's all the rage these days!

And check out how long Erin's hair is getting!!

Day 249-250, night night

2008-12-08T19:43:00.003-06:00

Erin is obsessed with putting things and people "night night".

Here she is putting herself night night:

And here she's putting the bears night night:

She is particularly fond of putting "babies" night night (dolls), which is apparently all the rage at her playschool. She lays them face down, covers them with a blanket, and gives them pats while saying "night night" in a soothing, sing-song voice. We figure anything involving babies is a good idea at this point since there will be a real live baby in the house in about four months!

Last night she put her frog sponge night night in the tub, complete with a blanket made of a wet washcloth (that was my idea, which she found intriguing).

This goes over so well that we have started to use it to our benefit. When noisy toys need to be put away or when we want her to leave the cats and dogs alone, we simple tell her they have gone night night.

Days 246-248, tired

2008-12-06T19:22:00.002-06:00

Erin is so active, I can barely keep up with her. I am an "older mother" after all (and pregnant to boot). And I admit it, she wears me out. She's wonderful. Lovely. A joy to hang out with. But after an entire day with her, I'm completely spent.

She gets more engaging by the day, though. Currently, we've been reading a book called "In My World." Erin has started her own little ritual with the book. During sing like a bird, she trills out "la la la", during dance with the butterflies, she bounces up and down, and during smell the flowers, she leans her head in close, sniffs and says, "mmmm".

I haven't taught her any of this and I don't think they have this particular book at her school.

Today we baked shortbread, shopped at Target, had coffee and milk at Starbucks, played outside, raked leaves, ate a lot of goldfish, and built with legos, just to name a few of our activities. And in the flurry of all this activity, Erin took a teeny tiny 30 minute nap. I'll admit, I was quite disappointed, having been looking forward to at least an hour to myself all morning.

I did catch a few pictures of David's return to the states on Thursday. He brought Erin a bear pillow.

And here she examines all of his zen accessories.

With all this excitement of Daddy back and my Mom visiting, we've had a very full week. I apologize for the spotty posting. I hope to be back to regular updates soon.

At least I can say that I have most of my holiday shopping done. Hooray for that. On to the rest of the baking.

Day 245, Double Pigtails

2008-12-03T20:06:00.001-06:00

Day 244, no photo

2008-12-03T20:05:00.000-06:00

[posted one day late]

Oh, how I wish I had had my camera Tuesday night when Erin tried the remains of my ranch dressing. She loved it. And had it all over her face at Kerbey Lane Cafe.

After dinner when we went outside, Erin threw her head back, pointed and said enthusiastically, "Mooooo!" (moon). The girl loves the moon.

Day 243, Application of Knowledge

2008-12-01T19:53:00.001-06:00

Erin had a slight rash on her thigh this evening, I guess from where her diaper may have chafed. I pointed it out to her and said "rash." She pointed at it and said "rash," then she pointed at the freckles on my arm and said, "rash."

Days 237-242, gigantic lapse!

2008-11-30T19:28:00.004-06:00

Thanksgiving took a bite out of my blogging! That, and getting David off to Korea early Saturday morning. Here are some catch-up photos.

We went downtown to breakfast at Whole Foods and watch the Turkey Trot. Erin is on the sidelines with her milk.

Later in the day, everyone was sleepy.

And even later in the day, Erin tried her first lime at Hyde Park Bar and Grill!

Friday was all about getting Dada packed and ready for his flight to Seoul.

Saturday we woke up to rain.

And today, I was able to coax Erin's hair into a pigtail that seemed quite a bit longer than those in the past.

From the top:

Hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving! This is it - the holiday season is upon us!!

Day 236, boys

2008-11-25T08:36:00.001-06:00

[posted one day late]

David needs a few things before he flies to Korea on Saturday and last night he looked at me innocently and asked, "Do you think stores will be open Friday?"

Days 233-235, catching up

2008-11-24T09:39:00.004-06:00

Well, Erin was sick all weekend. Friday to Sunday. Okay, actually, she was feeling better Sunday but since we spent the morning in the ARC after hours clinic having her checked for everything from strep to a UTI, I'm still counting that as a sick day.

I did manage to catch a few pictures though. You can tell by the photos that Erin was definitely not her usual happy self. We had a rough couple of days. Cranky, clingy, feverish baby + a severe lack of sleep does not equal a carefree weekend for any involved. I did get my hair cut (thank god!) and we watched Sicko, but it just depressed me and made me angry AND made me want to move to France. Wow, that's a good documentary - the best Moore has done in my opinion.

Okay, on to the pics:

It was cold on Friday morning. Erin and I ran some errands when her fever went down to try to break up the monotony of being stuck in the house.

On Saturday, Erin tried to get excited about playing with the ladybug, but her heart wasn't really in it.

On Sunday, Erin spent a lot of time laying down. The only nap she had all day long was a mere half hour. That's pure hell on parents.

I hope we're all recovered in time for a quiet, relaxing holiday. I want to get Erin outside for a time to have some fun with her Dad before he takes off to S. Korea for a week this Saturday.

Days 231 and 232, sick (again)

2008-11-20T19:51:00.005-06:00

I was just thinking to myself that it'd been a while since Erin had been sick. Of course, I wasn't counting the runny nose, cough, everything else proceeds as normal kind of sick. I meant the real sick.

And then yesterday, it hit. Her fever spiked and suddenly her last few days' crankiness was well-explained. She's been miserable and David and I have been juggling work (and sleep) and oh I hope that her fever stays under control tonight and that she's feeling better soon.

She always seems so little and vulnerable when she's ill.

Day 230, Mine Mine!

2008-11-19T09:02:00.003-06:00

[posted one day late]

Okay, I'm really getting tired of this "Mine, Mine" phrase. Erin seems to be using it when she wants anything at all (tangible or intangible) which makes it nearly incomprehensible about half the time. In this way, it has replaced "More" "Up" and "Mama" - all used in similar fashion. I guess I'm just bristling a little with the new change b/c it sounds so selfish. I know it's what her little school is teaching the toddlers to say in order to avoid screaming and slapping during arguments over toys, but geez it's getting old. Time to learn new words, Erin. Which isn't really fair since she seems to learn on average 5-10 a day. This morning? "ug, ug" (hug) - now that's a word I can get used to! :)

Day 229, Still New to Motherhood

2008-11-17T20:02:00.003-06:00

Erin and I were on our own tonight again since David was doing a taping at KLRU.

Sometimes, when it's just the two of us, I am reminded of how new this current reality still is. Occasionally, I feel that Erin is a much-anticipated houseguest and I want to make sure she's happy, comfortable, and entertained. Does she like the dinner I'm serving? Does she have clean towels? Does she find her bed comfy? A little wave of nervousness sweeps over as I check all the items I can control.

But only sometimes. Sometimes it feels as natural for the two of us to be together alone as if she's just a part of me and always has been.

I suppose this is just one of those parental mysteries that will grow less mysterious over time. Or perhaps it's a sign that Erin is growing up. I can already feel that she's got private thoughts and personal desires that have nothing to do with me. There's an excitement in these developments, but a tinge of sadness too. Already I find myself looking back on the early days - the pudgy ball of baby days. Perhaps it's the pregnancy and knowing that I'll soon have those early days all over again with a new baby.

At least my special little houseguest enjoyed her meal tonight, had a delightful bath, and went to sleep easily and gently. I guess she's comfortable after all.

Days 226-228, weekend!

2008-11-16T20:23:00.003-06:00

Friday was a wash - busy busy, quick dinner, erin to bed. One bad thing? We watched Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Ick.

Saturday, though, was my day to sleep in. Lovely. Truly lovely. And a cold front blew in and the temperature plummeted. Still, Erin and I braved the farmer's market later in the morning. Here she is all bundled up. Check out the awesome hat!

We had dinner at Hyde Park Bar and Grill with my sis and Erin loved looking at the Christmas lights already festively lit around the building. She also loved eating mac and cheese. No surprise there!

Sunday, we had breakfast at Curra's, went grocery shopping, and Erin spent the day bundled in cow-print fleece. Check it out:

Erin's new thing? She's learned to say "mine, mine" about anything she wants. She insisted an entire loaf of Pepperidge Farm Seven Grain bread was "mine, mine" this evening.

Day 225, results

2008-11-13T20:40:00.002-06:00

We got preliminary results from the amnio today. All is well.

(yay!)

Days 223 and 224, rest

2008-11-12T21:12:00.002-06:00

We all need rest. We've all been sick. David's still got laryngitis. And yesterday, I had an amnio. I found it more emotionally wrenching than I expected. Watching that needle go in so close to baby (and baby moving around a lot) just about tore my heart out with fear and anxiety. Thankfully, it's over, and the doctor feels we'll get all good news by Friday. But I'm glad it's over. And now I'm resting.

And we found out it's a girl. (yay for recycled clothes!)

And today Erin came home with fancy hair. Check it:

I wanted to put on some hip hop music and let her dance with her club hair. But I'm oh so tired. So tired.

Day 222, 17 months

2008-11-10T20:25:00.003-06:00

So, Erin wanted to wear her moccasins with her diaper and eat cookies today. My feeling is, you only turn 17 months once in your life. Happy b-day, Bear Bear.

Now let's hope we all get well soon. We're battling bronchitis and laryngitis and other germ-y itises.

Days 220 and 221, toilets, jackets, et al

2008-11-09T20:14:00.003-06:00

We got Erin her very own toilet over the weekend. Let's see, she stood on it, stood in it, turned it upside down, put the removable basin on her head, and sat on it and said "pee pee." That's a little progress, I guess.

And is there anything cuter than a baby bundled up in the cold? Here's Erin sporting her new fleece jacket from REI.

I bought it in a neutral color in case the next baby is a boy.

Day 219, moccasins

2008-11-07T09:07:00.003-06:00

It was chilly enough in the house this morning that Erin got to wear her moccasins.

Such a cutie:

The face she made when I first asked her to stand still for the picture:

Day 218, girls night

2008-11-06T21:00:00.004-06:00

Erin and I were all alone tonight since David had to work late. We went grocery shopping, had dinner, bath, and bottle.

Erin spent a lot of time in the bathtub kicking her legs. I think she'll have fun when swimming season starts again!

Oh, and she's gotten really good at pointing out her cheeks (and mine) - that's quite a few body parts she can name and identify: hair, eyes, nose, mouth, teeth, cheeks, ears, belly, belly button, feet, toes.

Day 217, Words Just Aren't Necessary

2008-11-05T08:16:00.000-06:00

Days 215 and 216, waiting . . .

2008-11-04T19:57:00.003-06:00

We've been nervous the past few days and now we're sitting on the sofa listening to KUT's coverage of election results. Please please please go Obama's way before I head off to bed!!

Days 212-214, Halloween and more

2008-11-03T16:03:00.003-06:00

Erin was pretty tired for trick or treating. We hit about four houses on our street and then she was done.

But she looked awfully cute!

On Saturday, Erin and I had a busy busy day. My parents were in from out of town so we met them for breakfast in the morning, did the ALS walk after, met my parents for lunch and then went to the Texas book festival and grocery shopping. I did manage to snap a picture when we finally settled down for dinner that evening. Erin was fascinated by my dad's car noises.

Also, I was so embarrassed by the huge mess she made at the restaurant. It was the worst ever. I guess toddlers, rice, and carpeted floors are not a good mix.

Sunday was daylight savings time, which means that Erin was ready for bed about 5:30. She hung in like a trooper until 6:45. And then was up at 1:30 (2:30?). I didn't take any pictures all day and I left a sweet potato in the oven for about 24 hours (thankfully I did remember to turn the oven off after a while, but then forgot that it was "cooling" in there). Yeah, it was that kind of day.

Day 211, pumpkin carving

2008-10-30T19:30:00.003-06:00

We carved our jack-o-lantern this evening!

That's the pumpkin Erin painted at Fall Fest next to Jack. Also, she tried putting pumpkin seeds and guts back into the carved pumpkin. So thoughtful.

And now the house smells of roasting pumpkin seeds. So autumnal.

Day 210, sleep

2008-10-30T08:30:00.002-06:00

Erin was very very tired last night (due to being up for 3 hours during the previous night) and went to bed at 7pm (a bit earlier than usual for her).

I followed suit.

And even though I was up by 5 this morning - I still got about 10 hours of sleep.

Holy cow, that was awesome.

Day 209, busy day

2008-10-28T18:56:00.003-06:00

In the midst of a busy week, this felt like an especially busy day. I know that I had meetings all day and then I had to leave work a little early to pick up Erin for her flu shot. The rest of the afternoon was spent keeping her occupied in case she was going to decide that the flu shot was pretty awful. Thankfully, we kept disgruntlement at bay.

And, Erin ate a huge dinner - a combo of our meal from Torchy's and baby staples like string cheese, veggie booty, pureed veggies and whole grain graham crackers.

Not surprising, then, that she felt the need to lounge after dinner:

You can see the band-aid where she received the flu shot, poor bambina.

She got silly again pretty quickly.

And she crashed about 7:10 pm. A busy day indeed.

Also, we've had a lot of progress in the last few days. Erin has started to tell me when she's gone poop and tonight she told us she wanted to go "night-night". She also learned how to turn on the water in the bathtub by herself (the horror!). She also spent a lot of time in the parking lot at the doctor's office giggling at her reflection in various cars. She may simply be tired from all the serious toddler-advancements. Growing up is exhausting!

At least she was spared the hassle today of putting on a certain monarch butterfly costume!

Day 208, Fall Festival

2008-10-28T12:05:00.003-06:00

Monday was Erin's Fall Festival at her little playschool. She wore her costume but it was a little chilly, so she had to wear her (way too cool) spider jacket over it.

She painted a pumpkin:

Stuffed her face with cupcake:

And got a ride in a wagon (which she loved; it was hard to get her out):