Friday, January 31, 2014

January updates

James loves classic rock, or as he calls it “drums and guitars”.  My favorite time of day is driving James to daycare when we rock out to some music.  Alma prefers classical.  And if an opera is on the radio (especially if it isn’t in English), she will interpret the entire thing as a Disney movie.

BBC CBeebies Radio is a favorite in the house.  Favorite downloads include Raa Raa the Lion, Big and Small and especially Sarah and Doug. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/cr)
James fighting name would be: James “Big Hug” Chisholm.  He is constantly asking for big hugs, which means being picked up.
Alma’s list of bedtime demands now includes a slice of bread.  The process goes: dinner as a family, dancing to music, PJs, brushing teeth, reading books (both with James and then in her room by herself), fan on, lights out, prayers, songs, Mom or Dad coming downstairs, Alma coming down 5 minutes later claiming her is hungry, giving her plain bread and water to eat in her room by herself, then when we check on her room about 45 minutes later, the lights are off and she is sleeping in bed.  Silly but we aren’t going to argue with it. 
Alma is shy at school, telling the teachers “I don’t know” when she is feeling too shy to answer a question.  She is friends with a boisterous little girl named Mya. 
James, who is not quite as shy, only whispers to me in front of others.  The cutest is when he whispers goodbye to me when I leave him at daycare.  He always has a big smile because I think he realizes how silly it is.
The kids have lots of silly made-up words between the two of them.  They enjoy going back and forth repeating each other’s silly words and giggling. 
Alma has some chores of taking care of James, which makes life a lot easier for us.  She takes off his shoes and unzips his jacket when we come into the house.  She also clips his buckles for his booster seat at the table.
James loves Thomas the Train – mostly the books, but he also occasionally watches Songs from the Station (a Thomas sing along show we stream through Netflix).  It is amazing how quickly he learned all of the train’s names and could identify them.  I still cannot tell them apart beyond their colors but he seems to know based on their faces.  When asked, the other day he pointed out that Edward and Thomas (both blue trains) have different noses.  Fascinating.

Sleeping Beauties


I love sneaking in their rooms and seeing them sleep.  So perfect.

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Recent Parties

Our family celebrated James birthday mid-January and Grandpa Thompson's birthday which is towards the end of January.  It is so nice for the kids to have time with their cousins and my cousin's children.  Plus, for my father's birthday, we were able to surprise him with a party.  What fun!


















Monday, January 27, 2014

Last Day of Ballet Class




The last day of ballet class is an observation class for the families.  So cute to see the girls all dancing.  They each add such a unique element to the class.  Some being silly but dancing with all their might, some distracting and others pointing out how the distractors should be paying attention.  Alma is very serious and on task but shies away from doing big movements. 

Monday, January 20, 2014

Sweety Boy


My little Jamers at his 2nd birthday party on Saturday.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Twitter Tweets

All of our private Twitter tweets between when we first became pregnant with Alma until the day before James's second birthday (in reverse order):

2013-12-24 James counting style: "one, two, six, eleven"

2013-10-07 James calls himself Jim.

2013-10-07 James = yelling for me to pick him up while I was making dinner. Asked Alma to kindly take him into the lv to read. It worked. Awesome.

2013-07-01 We have been thinking that James saying "sis-sis" when pointing to Alma's things was 'sister's'.  Ends up he was trying to say princess.

2013-06-26 Watching Swam Lake (youtube) w the kids. Alma in a tutu and pink ballet slippers, James in black ballet slippers. Fun to discuss with Alma.

2013-06-24 Just in the last two weeks, James has started saying mama.  I love it.  He also said Alma to Joshua and Amy but I missed hearing it.

2013-06-24 Alma's best joke: singing the entire alphabet but replacing the last word with pretzel ("won't you sing with pretzel!")

2013-06-24 When I woke Alma from her afternoon nap, which was going too long, she exclaimed "oh, I forgot to wake up!"with a laugh.

2013-01-06 James knows the sign for thank you.

2012-12-17 Happy that Joshua took Alma down to DC to visit Emily.  Nice to have time with just James but miss my little Alma. The house is too quiet.

2012-12-17 James is a great napper: 10am-12noon and 3:30-5pm. Sleeps 7pm-7:30am. Still up at least once a night to nurse.

2012-12-17 For the last week, James has been taking a few steps between eager arms. Today, he got up and walked (from the stairs to the fridge).

2012-12-14 Alma's first Nutcracker this morning with Nana and me.  In awe for 1.5 hours. Jumbars for lunch where told she is so good (as always told).

2012-12-14 James keeps walking across the room.  So fun to see his joy.

2012-12-06 Blew up at Alma this morning and broke her dust pan.  Feeling the pressure of full time parenting, working, party planning and no excersize.

2012-12-04 James 1st swim lessons tom. Wed is costume birthday play date. Thur is school party then Kate and Neal come. Fri birthday. Saturday party.

2012-12-04 Joshua in Cali for work. Alma asked me in sad voice if I miss Daddy tonight. Otherwise feels like a normal day when he works late.

2012-12-04 Such fun at the park with the kids today. James went down the slide for the first time, we buried each other in leaves, beautiful weather.

2012-11-30 "When I grow up, I could be a librarian."  Usually it is all ballerina from Alma.

2012-11-24 James first steps with Joshua while Alma and I were seeing Christmas lights downtown with Nana and Grandpa.

2012-11-18 Our neighbor Jordie (& her mom) babysat tonight.  Alma decided that she "wasn't tired" and hung out with them for a bit.  James also fussed.

2012-11-18 Love that Alma calls her good friend (Penelope) Nelope.  What a cute nickname.

2012-11-17 Maia's party at Wesley. Fun that I know tons of parents in the area.  Alma had fun with the balloons and Penelope.  James happily watched.

2012-11-15 The happiest sound ever: James throwing and then crawling after a ball over and over again.

2012-11-15 Alma basically never ate mushy baby food.  James has had a good run that seems to be coming to an end as he learns to feed himself.

2012-11-12 For the past month, Alma is able to climb in/out, close the car door and do her top buckle.  Independence comes faster than I often expect.

2012-11-12 Excited and a little nervous for Alma's intake meeting at Grace.  Alma will do great; nervous to afford the school over the long run.

2012-11-12 Jellybeantown in Nazareth with Liz and Anmarie.  Grateful for friends I feel so comfortable around.

2012-11-10 Alma & Joshua at storyhour; James & I went for a walk in the leaves; now home,  he's eating a piece of bread (machine honey whole wheat)

2012-11-08 Alma still takes a two hour nap every afternoon.

2012-11-07 James loves spending time with my parents.  He doesn't even freak with "I forgot I missed you" crying when I come home after they watch him.

2012-11-07 For a long time, Alma stayed in her twin bed and yelled for us in the morning (~8am wake ups). Now she gets up on her own (~6am wake up).

2012-11-02 Alma quote of the day:  "Jello? Jello?!  But it's brown."  (She thought the name was a derivative of yellow, I guess.)

2012-10-26 Sucks fingers and twiddles earlobe with left hand's fingers

2012-10-25 Every day for preschool in her John Deere lunch box, Alma gets a note.  It always contains pictures of our family, including the pets.

2012-10-25 Other hobbies: holding onto the side of his crib after a nap and jumping, holding onto my legs while standing and sucking his fingers.

2012-10-25 James favorite game to play: he throws a ball and then happily, with plenty of cute baby noises, crawls after it.

2012-10-19 Josh: "then they spent many years together getting to know each other and learning that they shared similar values..." #newhappilyeverafter

2012-10-16 James first day at the daycare at the gym.  He was tired from the morning (dropping A at Wesley) but was a champ. Only 20 minute workout.

2011-08-05 Grandpa = bop-paw; cute to see her amazement at his magic napkin trick, although she figured it out a week later at Grandma Gerri's funeral

2011-08-04 Boo-boos = blueberries, Alma's favorite food

2011-08-03 Alma has taken to running around the table (us) and joyfully screaming after she's done with dinner. Dad: so this is how caravans felt, huh?

2011-08-02 Now that she can say so much more, it's like I'm hanging out with someone else all day instead of just talking at a little being

2011-07-28 Even though she is extremely steady on her feet, she still goes down single steps backwards on all fours. Very cautious.

2011-07-25 Allofasudden Alma is suddenly very loud.  Especially in stores.  Mamamamamamamamamama!

2011-07-23 For the past few weeks we noticed that Alma says "one" for "this"; maybe because I often say "this one" or "another one"

2011-07-23 Can put on and take off her boots by herself

2011-05-27 I have now thrown up 19 times in two weeks. A total of 23 for the month of May, thus far.

2011-05-21 This is a stressful time for J and me. He's working so hard and I am too; just looks different these days so we both want to feel validated

2011-05-21 Stopped nursing Monday. Since have a similar routine for naps, the transition has gone remarkably well. Was just sad to tell her we're done.

2011-05-21 Belly button love is still absolute. Difficult to zip pjs and usually oneies go unsnapped to allow access during the day

2011-03-28 Things that don't exist: babysitting fathers, baby sign

2011-03-28 Finding word similarities (pear bear - growls at breakfast fruit), (belly)button, peas cheese -signs cheese at the veg)

2011-03-14 Alma did the sign Toilet after having a movement, all on her own. How can I feel this proud?

2011-02-22 I'll admit it, ice cream for dinner since Joshua is at a board meeting

2011-02-17 Carried her in the sling carrier I used when she was a baby for a hip (and back!) carry today at Target. Fun and felt like a cool mom!

2011-02-17 She doesn't feed the dog as much from her high chair these days. Think she is realizing that the food cannot be eatten if given to him.

2011-02-17 Started watching the first 15 minutes of Sesame Street with Alma in the morning (10am). Is this a slippery slope?

2011-02-16 Alma is singing along with Bjork surprisingly well.  Should I be proud of my daughter or embarassed for Bjork?

2011-02-16 cat is said by making lip smacking noise while putting thumb and index finger in mouth

2011-02-15 Everyone is mama and dada is now a rare word

2011-02-14 Keeps exclaiming bop! So we have the song by EnVogue that starts with mmmmbop!

2011-02-14 Dancing with both hands doing sign for milk is really snapping. Guess I dance and snap a lot. Makes dolls dance too.

2011-02-14 Good at sharing toys with older kids

2011-01-29 she is usually so close at hand, think of her as being big; then when see her from across the room, realize that a precious tiny being

2011-01-27 Holds hands together behind her back as she walks around

2011-01-27 Chores: wiping down surfaces (coffee table), sorting recycling, empty silverware)

2011-01-21 Wants to tickle everyone and everything (cat, stairs, mail, etc)

2011-01-21 Tall enough to look out dining room windows, just barely.

2011-01-21 I'm her security blanket and used to love holding my hand to walk -- now too independent for that (and often wants to go her own direction)

2011-01-21 Says dad very clearly. I'm still nana, at best. Says apple, eye and others.

2011-01-12 Back to echoing us, this time more in sound than mostly the tone like last time

2011-01-12 Lunch at Alma's new Ikea table and chairs (french toast and toast left over from breakfast). She likes it.

2011-01-11 Put together Ikea furniture (she used the screwdriver and hammer without prompting) and then baked oatmeal raisin cookies together (mixer!)

2011-01-07 Starting to wean,don't offer, don't refuse method,but she still won't drink milk; dr: no more bottle but finally got over that battle - ha!

2011-01-07 Eats bananas now (for some reason this was the most exciting thing ever)

2011-01-07 Learning signs fast -- this morning: snow; funniest sign is light because she can always do it (x-mas time!)

2011-01-07 Still cannot put too many things on her tray at once

2011-01-06 tapping forehead to the floor when upset, playing with my old kitchen and tea set

2011-01-06 shaking head, kicking feet while riding horse in backyard, watching Pilar stack blocks and then copying, playing in the shoe bin

2011-01-04 Alma has found a fondness for the horse in the backyard. Reminding her to "kick-kick-kick" makes it even more fun. Pets "his" head too.

2011-01-04 ... Items are highly sought after and fought for with the dog. We call it "floor meal". Other parents give us dirty looks when we explain it

2011-01-04 Sometimes Alma won't eat what we give her for meals and throws it on the floor. But then when she is out of her high chair these food ...

2011-01-03 Learning lots of new signs (bunny, boy) quickly but easily forgotten; also fine tuning her existing signs (cat is now different from milk)

2011-01-03 Animals make demonic noises

2011-01-03 Walked the morn of xmas Eve (1 year,2.5 weeks); now at home standing constantly (walk along walls/furniture as before with lil solo trips)

2011-01-03 Shakes head and laughs, drinks out of cup, eats adult meals (which means I have to be more intensional and cannot just rely on nursing)

2010-12-26 Alma started walking across the living room yesterday. Very exciting for Grandma Chisholm to see.

2010-12-16 Bad cold. Poor kiddo. Hope it clears up by Monday's flights to Oregon.

2010-12-10 Somehow none of my pants fit. After haing a baby I seem to now have even less in the bootey and hips department. (Size 4 -> swim in 2)

2010-12-09 Often times the loudest noise coming from the room where Alma is playing is the doll's heading bashing into things as Alma plays with her.

2010-12-09 Figured out how to get the rings on the stacking stick. Now to figure out the shape sorter.

2010-12-07 First steps this past weekend.

2010-12-07 Alma has been saying "duc-a, duc-a" all day.  Sounds like Dr Evil from Austin Powers.


2010-12-02 Hanging out in the childrens section of the library is my favorite way to spend the afternoon with Alma. Hers too!

2010-11-29 So very tired of family issues. Why can't we all assume the best of intentions from one another?

2010-11-29 Stood for a solid 5 seconds by herself today. Also started blowing kissed ... or doing the sign for 'thank you' (hard to tell).

2010-11-29 Peekaboo has never been a big thing with Alma (she looks confused) until this past weekend when she would be the initiator. Little crouch!

2010-11-29 Everything can be worn as a hat. Also, putting hats on your parents is just a fun. And offering it to them to eat is acceptable.

2010-11-21 Is it weird that I miss Alma after I put her down for the night? It's like forgetting my ring and, even though its fine, it just nags at me.

2010-11-21 Still feels like a vacation house in some ways. Roomy, things in weird spots, odd decorating (kitchen), not knowing people in the area.

2010-11-21 In the last few months, Alma has become more schmoopie. The more she sucks her thumb, the more she wants to hug with her head on my shoulder

2010-11-21 Love watching A look through her books. She has become skilled at testing each side to see which one opens. Usually it is still upside down.

2010-11-18 Alma is imitating what we say in a much more immediate fashion. Neat to hear her echo version.

2010-11-18 Yesterday, while Alma was upset, Shanti walked by. Alma started petting her and calmed down.  So neat to watch! (Shanti didn't seem to mind)

2010-11-12 Tooth number 7 has officially arrived. Gosh, it was such a tease for so long!

2010-11-10 First (and second) flights for Alma.  Going to Pittsburgh to see Aunt Kate and Uncle Neal!

2010-11-07 Alma fell asleep on the way to the grocery store, so Joshua and I are enjoying down time in the car in the parking lot (J=nap,me=Blackberry)

2010-11-05 Alma heard me listening to a message from Joshua on speakerphone and said "dada."

2010-11-03 Nursed Alma during my first meeting with my new bosses at the University of Pennsylvania.

2010-11-03 Monster/machine noises that remind me of Hayden and a fake laugh that is all her own.

2010-11-03 Everyone's sneezing (including her own) is always funny.

2010-11-03 Today Alma sat in highchair and screamed until I gave her chicken. She really likes it!

2010-11-03 Tooth number 7 (and possibly #8) has peeked through on the bottom next to the two little teeth that get a lot of attention these days.

2010-11-02 Pointing and saying OOO is both cute and useful for knowing what Alma is interested in exploring. Birds are the big hit this week.

2010-11-02 Goodbye and hello get immediate waves these days. Usually both hands open and close and wrists twist (similar to her sign for all done).

2010-11-02 Walks along furniture, walls, fences at a pretty good speed. Very comfortable on her feet and stands barely holding on these days.

2010-11-02 Saying goodbye as Joshua goes to work is part of the morning routine for Alma, Simon, Shanti and me.

2010-10-29 Often, Alma will pick up all of the items from her high chair tray before putting them all in her mouth at once.

2010-10-26 Alma's imitations of everything (words, sneezes, dog's bark, trucks passing, garbage disposal) are facinating and make us all smile.

2010-10-19 Baby is sleeping in the car while I play with the dog in the backyard. This is becoming a regular thing around here.

2010-10-19 Crawling around the dining room table repeatedly after the cat. Poor kitty.

2010-10-18 After playing around with the mirror in the car, now she knows "where's your tongue?" It is hilarious! I showed the neigh. and groc. clerk.

2010-10-18 Some nights I realize how much Joshua is missing due to night meetings. Hope it is worth it for him .. and us.

2010-10-16 Yesterday with a fussy baby crawling after me felt very in the season of Halloween ...like a zombie moaning and reaching out for me.

2010-10-16 Taught Alma giving high fives but now when offer hands to pick her up, she hits them with a big smile!  Ha!

2010-10-12 It feels so good to be making all of these maps for St Joes Carpenter Society on ArcGIS.  I missed really thinking hard and problem-solving.

2010-10-07 I fed poor Alma too many steamed veggies at once and now (yesterday and today)she has an awful tummy ache.  Poor kiddo.

2010-10-05 If I let her, Alma would happily overdose on strawberries.  Getting them in the shopping cart without her screaming for one is a challenge.

2010-10-05 Always struggle w the quiet that comes after a lot of activity like a move; it's difficult to sit and enjoy the stillness wo feeling lonely.

2010-10-01 Alma's crinkle nose smile is too much.  And the raspberries that she blows back at people are equally as charming.

2010-10-01 Watching Alma play in the rain on the front porch after our day filled with two house closings was magical and perfect.

2010-10-01 While we don't fully consider them her first words, Alma can say or imitate bye, g'night and barking like a dog. She says mmm for milk.

2010-10-01 The little bit of hair at the back of her head is so soft and I cannot help but to twist the tiny thin curls around my fingers.

2010-09-28 So far I'm finding that Bethlehem is full of graveyards, crazy tree-lifted sidewalks, friendly helpful folks, and lots of crickets.

2010-09-23 First sushi lunch with Alma.  She had the avacado rolls.

2010-09-08 I am so done with living next to John the high school drop out and his band of friends who hang out on our block all day.

2010-09-08 Another trip to the zoo with just Alma. Love watching her watch the animals. Can't wait until she can tell me what she thinks of them.

2010-09-07 Alma is a serious thumb-sucker today. The index finger is even starting to make its way up and over her nose (like I did as a child).

2010-09-02 Alma's favorite toy choice: books! But up until this morning, she never quite got the hang of flipping the pages by herself (only with help)

2010-09-02 Awesome to see her sitting on the living room floor by herself flipping through a book and looking at the pictures (Baby Colors). Love it!

2010-08-29 Yesterday morning when we brought Alma into bed with us for "mush pot" time, she looked in the mirror and clapped (for the first time ever)!

2010-08-29 The day before: waved at a picture of Simon that was hanging in the hallway. Last night: climbed three steps unassisted

2010-08-29 Clapping and waving all day yesterday and today. She seemed to be practicing after her nap this morning.

2010-08-28 Alma pulls up to her knees often.

2010-08-28 This move is stressful. Each move in my life has gotten more stressful. Is it the addition of stuff, people or age?

2010-08-23 Love when Alma sweats when nursing. Like Anchor Man (movie), during hot day, "milk was a bad choice." In her case, warm milk -- ha!

2010-08-23 Alma thinks chasing the animals is hilarious. They don't agree.

2010-08-23 Crawling around objects on the floor is nearly impossible for our mobile little cutie.

2010-08-19 First bath without the little tub insert, Alma still wants to stand up (and slip).

2010-08-18 Alma enjoys strawberries, cold baby carrots, whole milk yogurt, avacados, watermelon, grapes and sharp cheddar cheese.

2010-08-14 In the spirit of unattachment, gave all my art pads (paper) and h.s./college art classwork to Melissa the neighbor girl. ...

2010-08-14 ... Her complimentary thank you note totally made my day. Like the new neighbor who said that J & I were so handsome we needed more babies.

2010-08-14 Good thing Alma can sleep through hammering in the hallway outside her room, 'cause she has had to do a lot of it recently.

2010-08-09 Joshua talks about how his love for Alma makes his "heart ache". I just don't want to look away or blink or miss anything ever.

2010-08-07 While Alma could crawl forward last weekend, today she put all the skills together in a consistent way. Very traditional crawling stance.

2010-08-06 While playing by herself, Alma often pauses to reach out and touch and drool a little on my arm.  You know, to make me feel included.

2010-08-06 Alma only gained 4 oz in the last two months. Now 17 lbs, 15 oz.  The gain probably slowed due to the heat and how much her teeth hurt me.

2010-08-01 Alma officially made forward progress while crawling today. So amazing to watch her learn these skills!

2010-08-01 Realizing that I'm the type of person who always needs something big to be happening. How many times will I re-learn this?

2010-07-29 Today, for the first time, I felt Alma's top teeth while nursing. Ouch they are sharp. Not the worst, just surprising.

2010-07-27 Alma has been watching the trucks go by as we drive on the highway back up to Bethlehem to see some houses.

2010-07-25 Having a bad cold makes me realize how much energy goes into taking care of the baby. Usually I brush it off; today I'm feeling it.

2010-07-25 Alma will keep kicking a surface if it makes a good noise.  It was neat to see her discover the hardwood floors a few weeks ago.

2010-07-24 First mom and daughter breakfast together at the New Moon Cafe in Bethlehem before we spent the day driving by houses that are for sale.

2010-07-23 Alma is up on her knees, ready to start crawling instead of always just sliding backwards on her stomach.

2010-07-23 While we were at Old Navy getting some unstained tee-shirts for me, Alma started grinding her teeth.  Oof, I hate that noise!

2010-07-23 Three or four teeth are coming in on the top all at once. Along with a runny nose, she has not been the happiest camper.

2010-07-19 Enjoyed throwing the ball for Simon at FDR in the rain while we had to be out of the house for a showing this morning. Very centering.

2010-07-16 When we bought this house, we were so excited for the back yard. Turns out, we needed more green (and grass) to make it work for us.

2010-07-16 Joshua's wk has been rough as he tells folks that we are moving. (Keep repeating "Alma needs to see nature on a regular basis while young")

2010-07-16 Alma has started screaming when I leave the room and she sees me go.

2010-07-15 FDR park with Simon and Alma as the first house showing happens.  Nervous excited! Alma's playing with leaves. Simon's under the pic table.

2010-07-15 Alma hasn't figured out that she can take her pacifier out of her mouth, which is great for keeping other things out of her mouth.

2010-07-09 On 7/7  Alma started officially crawling. It requires a good bit of her face smooshed on the floor but it was still pretty awesome.

2010-07-06 Timing the baby's morning nap w the postman's arrival just doesn't work. It entails too much policing of the dog so he doesn't bark as much.

2010-07-01 Almost gasped as I rinsed Alma's swimsuit after swim lessons this afternoon ... the moment made me finally realize that I'm someone's mom.

2010-07-01 Alma doesn't stick out her tongue nearly as often as she used to, although it still seems to be out more than other kiddos her age.

2010-07-01 Alma closes her eyes and mouth before going under water. So neat to see how quickly she learned this!

2010-06-30 Alma is starting to roll multiple times in a row, thus moving across the floor. Can also scoot forward and back on her stomach a few inches.

2010-06-29 First bike ride with Grandpa and Mama on the rail trail starting in Newville was a success!

2010-06-26 Second bottom tooth is peeking through the gums.

2010-06-24 Alma updates: seems to know her name, has one tooth, claps vertically (flaps, really), loves water/pools, roars like a dinosaur often, ...

2010-06-24 ...not just spitting out food (eats some), looks for me when someone else holds her (then doesn't always look me in the eyes when close), ..

2010-06-24 ... gets tired of watching the dog play fetch (didn't think it was possible), 3 naps a day, still nurses every 2 hrs, up 2-4 x a night, ...

2010-06-24 ...wakes up on belly and lifts head (if plug w paci, falls -literally- asleep again), no control of crawling so gets stuck in crib often, ..

2010-06-24 ... gets the giggles around 5pm daily, likes trees and pulling out grass, was most excited baby at 1st swim lesson (even with dunks!).

2010-06-16 It is amazing how much I can accomplish during an hour-long nap (... as long as I am not tempted by the internet)

2010-06-14 Alma's first tooth is now officially a little white line.  No sign of the second one yet.


2010-06-14 Laying on her tummy (on a quilt on the living room floor) Alma can scoot herself both forward and backwards a few inches to get toys.

2010-06-14 I finally stopped recording her sleep in my book in an attempt to let go of the process. (She hasn't been sleeping well -- maybe b/c teeth?)

2010-06-14 Alma likes the book Where Is Baby's Belly Button? and books with photos of babies.  She smiles and flaps arms while I read.

2010-06-14 Was finally feeling excited about (maybe just okay with) being on Sartain St for a few more years, now J has the chance to work in Allentown

2010-06-14 If we move, I'll miss the accessability of the city. Walk to most everywhere I go. Moving may mean getting in a car to get out of the house

2010-06-14 So fun to watch Alma in the hotel pool; surprised by how well she floats! She is full of such joy and love for us. Being a parent =the best!

2010-06-14 Alma seems to have stretched out in the last month.  Now she can reach the top of her head!

2010-06-08 Alma cut her first tooth yesterday (her 6 month birthday). Can't see the tooth (just a dark slit), but can feel it (like broken glass).

2010-06-08 Weighed in at 17 lbs 11 oz this morning at the doctors (90th percentile). Cried (screamed) during the ear check again.  More shots, too.

2010-06-02 Laying Alma down in her crib for the night is such a satisfying feeling. I love the way she rolls onto her side.

2010-05-15 Nice to see Vickie ... now we are just waiting for Scott to deplane.  Excited for this weekend of guests, a big party with lots of friends.

2010-05-14 Alma can easily turn toward noise, turns to look over the opposite shoulder when the dog walks behind her, and may even recognize her name.

2010-05-12 Baby yoga (Simone and Alma held hands) then three hour walk along the Wissahickon with Samantha, Elias and Alma in the Ergo carrier.

2010-05-12 Did I mention that Alma can nearly sit up by herself? Yup, yesterday she did it for almost a half a minute. Today was even longer.

2010-05-11 I love that Joshua and Kate always have my back.

2010-05-11 I've taken to cooking dinner during Alma's morning nap.  Today's fare: chuck roast!

2010-05-10 Ordered Alma's baptism cake from Terminis: vanilla with buttercream frosting, orange and blue flowers, "Our love is upon you, Alma Kateri"

2010-05-10 When at the Temple lab for a science experiment last Friday and being held by a lab tech, Alma reached for a toy with both hands.

2010-05-10 Shanti: learning that little kids are a good source of "pets". Alma: reaching to grab the cat. -->fist full of fur in the mouth soon enough.

2010-05-09 Planted seeds in our plot in Brother Jerry's Garden in Camden; borrowed "the office" from Amanda

2010-05-09 DJ Alma can cut some funky beats while hangin' in her office.

2010-05-04 First nap (~ an hour after wakes up) is 1.5 hrs; an hour ~10 am; ~ noon she usually falls asleep on couch while playing by herself.  Cute!

2010-05-04 Just now: Alma = tummy time with toys in front of her -> she "crawled" (face, feet) to the paci and put it in her mouth -> fell asleep

2010-04-30 Things Alma likes: watching me eat, kicking legs intently during bath (spinning class), moving arm back and forth (hammering her body).

2010-04-30 Enjoyed a nice long walk in the Wissahickon with Liv. Although Alma didn't. (fussy in jog. stroller; fell asleep 100 ft from the car, again)

2010-04-30 I love how "square" Alma's hands are. Like mine! I also like how she is obsessed with playing with my hands. Favorite toy, for sure.

2010-04-30 After 21 job offers from the Census, finally told them not interested. Committed to SAHM, but Alma no longer taking a bottle was the kicker.

2010-04-30 Alma does long "tummy times" if has a view of the dog. Will roll onto back to follow him with her eyes. Rolls other way in attempt to nurse.

2010-04-29 The bug caught me. Darn.

2010-04-28 Since Alma is under the weather, she wants to nurse constantly. Today tried a paci (first time since she was little) -> love _and_ sleep!

2010-04-27 Erica and Kira visit (Wed-Mon) - good to see how life with toddler looks. Now it's nice to have a quiet house and not chase the dog all day.

2010-04-27 Alma = cold (snot running down her face); Joshua = stomach virus over weekend; me = healthy (although a little sleep deprived as always)

2010-04-27 When Simon comes near, Alma blinks like crazy because his visits often result in a big wet kiss on her face.

2010-04-20 Alma isn't especially excited about toys that light up with music. She simply seems to endure it with a look of confusion.

2010-04-20 Loves watching her sheep-jumping-over-fences mobile as it spins silently (window fan blows it). After naps, she watches and eats her toes.

2010-04-19 Since it was difficult to keep Alma off the ground until her baptism, Dad officially make her human this past weekend in their backyard..

2010-04-16 In Carlisle visiting N and P. Hoping Alma will sleep better here.

2010-04-14 Alma loves babbling to Simon.  When she is crying, just looking at him can calm her down instantly.

2010-04-12 Enjoying my birthday
tho feeling oddly emotional about it. Being loved is just too much some days. Have such a good life, it makes me teary.

2010-04-10 Yoga, finsh baptism invitations, Bartrum Gardens, lasagna, chocolate birthday cake, making tutus for Maddy and Alma. Good day/psudo b-day!

2010-04-09 Yesterday Simon got out the front door. He ran in a completely predictable path, straight to the high school where the squirrels are.

2010-04-07 Accidental private baby yoga class; afternoon shopping. People commented on my cute little boy was since Alma is wearing brown, with planes.

2010-04-07 I have a feeling that it is going to be a long, hot, shade-seeking summer for Alma.  She is already so sweaty and it has just begun.

2010-04-07 Alma finally was able to catch her feet yesterday and has been enjoying their company again and again today. Can't wait for her to eat 'em!

2010-04-06 Poor baby really cried hard when she got her shots this morning. Now she is sleeping deeply at home.  (4 month, 16 lbs 3 oz, 24.25 inches)

2010-04-06 Got to see Pat and Carrie yesterday.  They just returned from a trip out to LA where they saw Aggie, who is in the ICU ... and my prayers.

2010-04-06 Main reason I'm anxious to move out of South Philly: the screaming, smoking, swearing neighbors who are always around. Dreading the summer.

2010-04-05 Alma spends a good part of the day trying to "catch" her incredibly long tongue with her hands.

2010-04-04 Not switching Alma to her crib yet; I would just miss her too much. As a reward, last night she slept from 8-8 only getting up once at 5:30.

2010-04-04 Morning yoga, afternoon hike, dinner of delicious focaccia bread, AND ordered a fancy SRL digital camera for my birthday. Happily spoiled!

2010-04-02 Wait. Why did I grow my hair out before I became a mother? Alma's death grip may make me regret that decision.

2010-04-01 Last night tried switching to A in the PnP in our room. Too noisey and she woke every hour or two. Tonight: crib in her own room ... maybe.

2010-04-01 Alma has been making more noise recently. Seems to be testing out her voice. Until, inevitably, it turns into crying 'cause lonely/bored.

2010-04-01 More trees are going into our block's sidewalks this weekend. I couldn't be more excited. Here's to a cooler summer and prettier street!

2010-03-31 Ordered last wills online for Joshua and me through LegalZoom. Isn't as odd/sad/creepy as I thought it might be. piece of mind, actually.

2010-03-31 Waiting for Joshua at FDR with a tired dog, a sleeping baby and a picnic dinner of pretzel-dogs. Hooray!

2010-03-30 A few days ago, I let Alma lick an apple I was eating. She liked it! Since then, I let her lick a pear (love!) and a sugar cookie (hate).

2010-03-30 Didn't realize mothers could nurse every two hours for MONTHS. I thought by a month-> three times a day. Supportive environment = necessary.

2010-03-30 Currently researching: plants to put in our garden plot, flat tvs to put on our wall, cameras to buy myself for birthday, wooden toys for A

2010-03-29 Alma's a whiney one today (& most Mondays). Only wants to eat until falls asleep again. Is it from the weekend of guests always holding her?

2010-03-28 Visit with AntiKate and Uncle Neal was great. So grateful we live close enough for a weekend visit. Worry they are thinking of heading west.

2010-03-28 All love songs are now sung with Alma in mind.

2010-03-27 Came to the Romero Center event at Rutgers to see J get his educator award. Very well deserved. Alma slept in his arms during the keynote.

2010-03-26 Yesterday consisted of errands around the neighborhood with A in the Ergo. People love seeing her. Josh got home early; went to bed at 6:30.

2010-03-26 While A was sleeping from 10pm-4am for a while, this week she's been going down by 9 then waking @ 2, 4, 6 and up at 7. Do I ignore the 2am?

2010-03-25 Feeling like crap -- clogged milk duct and whole body is aching from the car accident.

2010-03-24 Baby yoga then zoo w Samantha. Good to talk out my feelings of being judged  on baby-related decisions.Hope she didn't think I was too much.

2010-03-23 So happy that my cell phone ringer is no longer my voice saying "ring ring"!

2010-03-23 While oil is changed at Pep Boys, got a new drivers license photo. This afternoon we have story time and veg/fruit shopping at Whole Foods.

2010-03-23 After two hours at Pep Boys, they asked how to take the tires off. I explained again that I only wanted an oil change - another hour wait.

2010-03-23 Rear ended a pickup today when they stopped suddenly near the Italian Market. Everything was okay, but now my neck aches from the whip lash.

2010-03-22 Alma is J's best alarm clock. After I feed her in the a.m., she drifts back to sleep and I do housework. When she wakes, J is responsible.

2010-03-21 Alma is starting to grab things with her hands and bring them to her mouth to lick them. So cool to watch her learn how to use her body!

2010-03-20 Alma's 1st b-day party: Drew's 2nd celebrated at the YMCA. He had a really fun time. Of course, everyone commented on Alma's huge eyes.

2010-03-19 Attended our first story time at the Charles Santore branch. Now going to Temple to see Cathy, Dr. Mennis and possibly others.

2010-03-19 People who ride the subway often know to sit down so that they are out of the way. Newbies seem to think it's cool to stand.

2010-03-19 So very nice to see Dr. Harris, too. Don't know why I've always felt close to him but I hope that we always stay in touch. He's wonderful.

2010-03-18 Simon is horrible when anyone else is in the house. Making up for restraining himself all day, since he knows I won't tolerate a bad dog.

2010-03-18 Second year in a row when we have to sign up for MORE channels to save money on our Comcast bill. We are saving $10 a month. Weird.

2010-03-18 Keep contemplating how awesome it would be to go running. Maybe I should put forth more action and less thought... Maybe tomorrow morning?

2010-03-18 Alma has been loving tummy time today. And out of the blue she rolled over from her belly to her back. It surprised both of us!

2010-03-18 Oh man, we have a channel that is showing rugby. I'm officially going to lose my husband to the television.

2010-03-17 I am so blessed to be able to spend my days with my baby.  She is a delight beyond my expectations. So loving and pure.

2010-03-17 Moms and Margaritas was fun although I may be getting tired of talking about babies and their sleep habits.

2010-03-16 Went to FDR with the dog and baby. Now sitting outside Black and Brew in the sunshine.

2010-03-16 The warm weather is making me excited for summer. Although I really enjoyed this winter and all of the snow it brought. My favorite winter!

2010-03-16 Wish I lived in the same town as best friends and parents so that we could talk face-to-face instead of chatting on phone about next visit.

2010-03-15 LOVED my date with Joshua: Fancy dinner at Alma de Cuba then a Henry Rollins lecture. I married such an interesting man whom I love to date.

2010-03-15 When my parents come to stay for a few days, I realize how much I love having more people in the house.  Tiring at times, but I prefer it.

2010-03-10 When I'm driving and Alma is sleeping in her car seat, it is easy to forget that I'm a mom. These "breaks" are nice.

2010-03-08 Sad for St Anthony's loss of Bro Jerry. Hearing from his adoptive son was touching. It was kind of Father Jud to give Joshua Jerry's Bible.

2010-03-06 Fun to see Amanda, Dominic and Heather and introduce Alma. Now off to Randy's 80s-themed surprise 30th birthday party.

2010-03-05 This week yielded a new baby quilt, food (and beer) in the house, banana bread loaf, 3 dozen oatmeal cookies, park trip and a visit to Ikea.

2010-03-05 Crazy to think that I was so excited that A was sleeping "a whole 2 hours in a row" at the end of January.  (Now she is doing 7.5 hrs!)

2010-03-03 Rest in peace Brother Jerry Hudson. You will be missed by all who knew you and all those who were looking forward to knowing you, like Alma.

2010-03-03 So happy that I always have Baby Yoga to look forward to every week. That class brings me joy and balance.

2010-03-02 Alma gave a big charming smile to herself in the mirror this morning. Boy does she love mornings.

2010-03-02 Love singing Big Rock Candy Mountain to Alma. It was one song I always imagined singing to a little one. Can't wait 'til she can sing it too

2010-03-02 How funny that I am officially The Boss's Stay-at-Home Wife. Weird.

2010-03-01 When I read Brown Bear Brown Bear to Alma, she looks back and forth between the pictures and my face and smiles.

2010-03-01 Alma's hair looked very red in Dottie and H's very sunny house on Wednesday when we stopped by on the way to Carlisle.


2010-03-01 On Saturday morning, Col Tierno really made Alma laugh and Alma made Mrs. Tierno very happy. I'm grateful they have been a part of my life.

2010-03-01 Alma can put both of her feet in the air. This may be the beginning of rolling over.

2010-03-01 Started watching 30 Rock episodes on Netflix while nursing during the day. Now I see why it's been so popular.

2010-03-01 When in her sling, Alma can suck her thumb consistently and fall asleep with it in her mouth. So cutie!

2010-02-28 Sweet that Paster Yoder was so touched to see me with a daughter; Mrs. Yoder is lovingly baby-crazy; Kate is still in awe that I'm a mom.

2010-02-28 Nice that Mom and I are a similar size. Every time I go home to Carlisle, I get to snag some stylish clothes. Mom shops, my closet is full.

2010-02-27 Driving by snowy fields of Lancaster County on the way to see the Yoders, including Auntie Kate and Uncle Neal.

2010-02-26 Issues: 1. Alma has had a little cradle cap; only on her brow; comes off with a bath 2. Her fingernails are starting to scratch her face.

2010-02-26 Seems no one but Joshua can get Alma to sleep without the sling during the daytime. Cute to see Nana and Padre wear her.

2010-02-26 About to go for an hour-long massage, my parent's treat. My body needs it from all the nursing I do, which is hard on my arms and posture.

2010-02-25 While I commend Alma for sleeping from 9:15 pm-3:45 am last night, I would now like to request naps w/o the aid of the sling during the day.

2010-02-25 About to enjoy Alma's first tea party with Nana's friends, Sandy and Maria.

2010-02-23 How can Alma be this young and so distracted while eating? Also her favorite thing today seems to be looking at the room while upside down.

2010-02-23 It's so flattering to have Alma flip out with excitement every time I smile at her. Legs kick, arms flail and cute little noises abound!

2010-02-23 Surprisingly excited (nervous?) about traveling home to Carlisle tomorrow w Alma. Haven't been since April, when we announced our pregnancy.

2010-02-22 Warmer weather today. Airing out the house ... At least until the neighbor kid started smoking right below our window. School, anyone?

2010-02-22 Sunday's grocery trip: I feed A in the coffee shop, Joshua shops. Now the house is full of hidden treats!Even a block of cheese is exciting.

2010-02-22 Alma loves her hands, esp. her thumbs. So much that nursing has become a competition. Alma is not rooting for her hands, but they often win.

2010-02-21 Mass at St Joes, met Rosa and saw Father Bob again. Then to Target for a fun dress and hula hoop. Alma snoozed on the dressing room floor.

2010-02-19 Alma's face is getting more square as her cheeks get larger and hang from her face. Also, her hair is slowly coming in. Amy sees some red.

2010-02-19 While Simon is always trying to lick the baby's hands, Shanti prefers her head.

2010-02-18 Monday night 5-hour stretch of sleep; Tuesday = 6-hours; Wednesday = 6.5-hours

2010-02-18 Libery Bell and short tour of the surrounding area. This sort of excursion reminds me that I need a new sling, one that is nicer to my back.

2010-02-17 It's nice to have a little guy in the house. Seeing him sing to himself while playing is so sweet.  Also, seeing Simon ignore him is great!

2010-02-16 Dr Shawl said that he would like to see us have another child in the next year.

2010-02-16 At the Please Touch Museum with Amy, Hayden, Joshua and Alma. H is the perfect age for this place, although he could use a partner in crime.

2010-02-14 Our Mommy and Me yoga teacher Ali recognized Joshua as Alma's father as they walked by each other on the street.  She said it was the eyes.

2010-02-13 Last bit of snow fell on Wednesday, but the streets around our house are not plowed.  We got stuck on our street on the way to the store.

2010-02-12 Joshua seems to be enjoying his P90X workout videos.  More inspired workouts. He is already so strong but I can't wait to see the results!

2010-02-12 Someone returned Joshua's wallet, which they found on the beach.  How awesome (and a little "I told you so").

2010-02-12 Just watched Alma see the cat for the first time. She smiled, cooed and did not look away for a long time.  Shanti was washing her own face.

2010-02-12 Joshua calls every night during his drive home.  Simon figured this out.  After the call, he sits in front of the door waiting for his love.

2010-02-10 All of my underware is stretched out due to wearing it while I was pregnant.  That's why I'm constantly doing a weird pants-dance.

2010-02-10 I love A's morning smiles -- so charming.  Once the sun comes up, she becomes wide awake.  Wonder if she will be a morning person like me.

2010-02-10 Cannot get a decent photo with our camera (too slow to capture moment, too washed out) or Flip video (blurry). Best photos come from my Bb.

2010-02-10 Yesterday at A's 2 month check up, she weighed in at 13 lbs 8 oz (97 percentile) and 22.25 inches. We really like Dr Daniels and his staff.

2010-02-10 Heat's still out, gas company guy cannot find parking, snow is falling heavier. Hope it's a problem with the pilot light and not the heater.

2010-02-09 Alma took her first dose of infant Tylenol today to ease the pain of the shots. Wish it could also warm the house since the heater is out.

2010-02-09 Just made nachos for myself. What's happening to me? First I start liking tortillas, now this.

2010-02-08 Alma's had been waking up @~ 12, 2:30, 5 and 7:15 for a week straight. Last night she fell asleep at 10:45 and woke at 1:45, 5:45 and 8.

2010-02-08 Alma has spit up "spells" every few days, which are a blessing compared to all the babies who have severe reflex problems these days.

2010-02-07 Alma switched and started sucking on only her left hand a week ago. Now she switches back and forth between the two, with left favored.

2010-02-06 Even though A only sleeps approx 2 hrs at a time during the night, she goes back to sleep (after eating) very quickly which makes it easy.

2010-02-06 Joshua and his mum kept remarking how A's "upturned" nose is like mine.

2010-02-06 A is surviving her first cold. Started Tuesday night and, now Saturday, it is almost gone. Mainly just a very runny nose/congestion.

2010-02-06 I'm getting better at taking days off. Although sitting and enjoying a book is still difficult as I keep thinking of things I "should" do.

2010-02-05 Before A was born, I imagined I would nickname the baby Pip (regardless of gender). However Paco seems be what escapes my lips thus far.

2010-02-05 So happy that Joshua was able to work from home this morning so that I could go to yoga. Yum, it was delicious to have some time to myself.

2010-02-05 Discovering that it is far easier to bite the baby's nails instead of using the clippers.  Am I creating bad habits? (... for me?!)

2010-02-05 Poor Joshua didn't realize that he needed to test the bottle to make sure it was warm -- hungry crying baby for 45 minutes until I got home

2010-02-04 We have such great neighbors = called Erin, went over for an hour to show off the baby and share a dessert (frozen lemon custard).Happiness.

2010-02-04 Nice visit with Kelly and Maren at their house in Drexel Hill. Have to admit to feeling jealous of her well-decorated house in the 'burbs.

2010-02-03 Signed up for baptism classes at St. Anthony's then meet Helen at Black and Brew. Fun to see Bernadette's 8-month old smiles & interaction.

2010-02-03 Have difficulty getting Alma to sleep without a feeding.  Thank goodness for the sling and some radio music. Simon enjoys the dance, too.

2010-02-03 Excited to learn from Helen that Alma means "apple" in Kazak. Before Gwen. Paltro did it, I loved Apple as a little girl's middle name.

2010-02-03 Went into a doll shop while waiting for yoga class to start. The shop owner gave us a small stuffed animal. People really like babies.

2010-02-03 Instead of clothing gifts, I wish ppl sent gift cards. Have yet to purchase anything b/c A has too many clothes. But what's the fun of that?

2010-02-02 Last night: 4 hours followed by 2 hours in the basket. The only problem with this is that when she doesn't sleep as long, it's disappointing

2010-02-01 Yesterday = miss Mass, see Jackson & fam, treat ourselves to Dunkin, drive back to beach to look for wallet, Everest show & happy bath for A

2010-02-01 First breastfeeding group (besides LaLeche League); nice to meet other young mothers in the city.

2010-01-30 Alma's 1st beach experience was short lived (maybe two minutes total). Next time we won't go during a winter storm warning (too much snow!).

2010-01-29 In the last week, A's eye lashes have really started to come in. So pretty! And now her eyes are even more expressive.

2010-01-29 Spent so long thinking @ girl names, hard to stop. [before preg=Sasha, first preg=Monica, middle pregnancy=Natalie, end=open to inspiration]

2010-01-29 Our simple game of hide and seek is no longer possible as Alma is able to follow our faces with her eyes and by turning her head.

2010-01-28 First bus ride with da bey-bey into the city to meet Shawn for tea. It's nice to talk about some non-mommy related topics with a friend.

2010-01-28 Happy to have my Bb back up and running with the internet.  With only one hand during feedings, it's nice to be entertained by this device.

2010-01-28 A "good night of sleep" is a relative term these days. For example, Alma's two-hour stints in the bassinet at night are exciting.

2010-01-27 Turns out Mommy and Me yoga may be open to papas too.  How great would that be?!  (As long as Joshua could take the time off from work....)

2010-01-26 Alma has slept most of the day ... probably because she didn't sleep much last night. (The night before: the most bassinet sleep yet, 3-2-2)

2010-01-25 Puddles and mud with Simon (+beloved tennis ball), Alma in the sling and my new galoshes. Passerby warned me that the dog would need a bath.

2010-01-24 Alma's 1st Thompson family event yest.: Tommy's homecoming from Iraq.  Nice to see ppl & happy Christine was so touched to be A's godmother.

2010-01-24 Nana and Padre think Alma (since birth) seems very sure of herself. "A strong individual" "Feet firmly planted" "Like her parents"

2010-01-23 Yesterday, Simon walked past a tree to pee on the baby's car seat, which was momentarily placed on the sidewalk.

2010-01-23 While enjoying a fun dinner at Robin and Bobby's house last night, Alma projectile spituped. (This is two days in a row at exactly 8:15 pm.)

2010-01-22 Alma being awake for more hours of the day presents a new challenge to getting things done but the awards (smiles!) are well worth it.

2010-01-22 Usually love doing our taxes, but this year I'm especially excited to see the final numbers.  (Collecting the forms is my favorite part.)

2010-01-22 Simon is unable to use his back leg to scratch itches.  Can catch a ball like a champ but cannot master this basic skill. Poor pup.

2010-01-22 Alma's morning nap (after her large morning feeding) is the longest and most independent of the day.  It is a productive 1.5 hours for me.

2010-01-21 The first time I saw someone breastfeed, it was me.

2010-01-21 Whenever Alma is fussy and cannot get herself to sleep for a nap, putting her in the peapod sling always does the trick.

2010-01-20 Alma sat quietly through yoga class today, watching the instructor Ali. Then we went to neighbor Marie's house and slept in Marie's arms.

2010-01-20 Rocking baby in car seat, throwing ball for dog, watching movie from library. Hooray for making us all happy.

2010-01-20 People keep telling us that Alma, or Allie as the neighbors have nicknamed her, looks like Joshua. Big blue eyes, strong brow, short hair.

2010-01-19 Half way through the 65+ thank you notes we owe folks. We are so blessed. It is difficult to keep up with the generosity!

2010-01-19 Just watched an informative baby care DVD. There is so much to this parenting business! Based on the video, Alma finally has a clean face.

2010-01-19 I love feeding Alma in a quiet house when I can just concentrate on our connection ... and maybe the blog I'm reading on the laptop/my Bb.

2010-01-19 Found out that I received a 97% on the employment exam for the Census.  That means I only got one of the 30 tricky questions wrong. Go me!

2010-01-19 Family walks are the best part of my day. I love talking to my husband and getting time outside.

2010-01-18 Alma's first trip to Camden to support her daddy.

2010-01-18 When Alma poops it sounds like fireworks are going off in her pants.

2010-01-18 Alma is starting to find her hands (back of her right hand, mostly) more often as a form of comfort.

2010-01-17 I cannot get over how absolutely cute Alma is.  It is unbelievable and I feel like I could just stare at her for hours.  She's delightful.

2010-01-17 Love listening to radio programs. This mornings selection: This American Life.

2010-01-17 Going to Whole Foods for organic fruits to take care of my sweet tooth. Along with the oatmeal cookies I made this morning, I should be set.

2010-01-17 Alma eats every two hours very consistently both day and night.

2010-01-17 Joshua is able to play video games without end. I don't get it but try to be neutral. Yelling at Madden helps him decompress/turn off brain.

2010-01-16 Feel bad texting Joshua that it would be awesome if he got home before 10pm on a Friday night. Wait, why do I feel bad again?

2010-01-16 Under the covers and warm - crying; remove the covers and moving toward basinet - no crying ... repeat over and over all night long

2010-01-16 Craving foods that aren't appropriate for breastfeeding or my cold. Chocolate, milk, ice cream, coffee, sugary sweets. Feel whiney about it.

2010-01-16 I have a bad habit of making plans with friends when I'm not feeling well.  Good thing I have Joshua to talk some sense into me and my plans

2010-01-16 My bum gets sore from sitting so much ... feedings plus baby sleeping on me.  There is a def dent in the couch where I always sit.

2010-01-14 LeopardPig is bummed; the library is closed again. It's difficult to get books when they make up new hours each week

2010-01-14 Staying at home is all about finding projects that can be accomplished in short spurts and, if interrupted, quickly hidden from pets

2009-08-17 Today's 25-week doctor's visit: all is good!  I'm up to 144lbs  -- that's 7 lbs gained in the last 4 weeks -- yipes!

2009-03-21 Dropping the dog off at the sitter in prep for a wild weekend in NYC in with Joshua ... to celebrate my grandma's 90th birthday.  Woo hoo!

2009-03-20 Writing my presentation for the geography conference in Vegas.