Birthday Celebration for Daddy

We are still celebrating Daddy's birthday. Last night, Julie and Steven took us out to Giovanni's. I had some bread and everyone else had some version of pasta.



Here I am hanging out with Julie. Thanks, Steven and Julie for a very fun evening!

Taking a Drive with Nanny G

I went driving with Nanny G this week. So much fun!

My 6 month Dr. Appointment!

Can you believe how big I am? I am 27 inches and 16 lbs 15 oz !! Still 70th percentile for weight and 85th percentile for height. And, I think Dr. H said that I was 90th something percentile for head circumference. Mommy always tells me I am smart, but now it is a fact. Below are some of my other weigh-ins for comparison. I am a BIG girl!

Happy (45th!) Anniversary, Grandma and Grandpa

Today is Grandma and Grandpa's 45th anniversary. I'm not sure what that means exactly, but Mommy says it is a very LONG time. I know when I was in Mommy's tummy, Mema and Pepa had their 50th anniversary, but I couldn't make it because Mommy was nervous about flying at that time. Little did everyone know that I would take forever to come out and I was in no way going to make an appearance in July!

Back to Grandma and Grandpa....I really admire that they have been married for so long. When I called this morning, Grandpa was out getting carrots so that Grandma could make carrot cake waffles for breakfast. Sounds yummy. I hope someone will make some for me some day! I hope Grandma and Grandpa have a wonderful day celebrating each other.

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

I LOVE my Daddy. He takes care of me, takes me for walks, makes me delicious food (see me eating my squash prepared by Daddy below), sings to me, giggles with me....basically, I have the coolest Dad ever. Today is his birthday and we had a great day. First, we went to breakfast with Grandma before taking her to the airport. Then, I took Mommy for a drive in my car (see my slideshow for the photo). After I took an almost THREE hour nap, we went to the beach for sunset and Mommy and Daddy had tea afterward. Overall, it was a great day (except that Grandma had to go home). I think Mommy said that Grandma and Grandpa and Mema and Pepa are going to come visit again soon. I can't wait!

A Day With Daddy and Grandma

I spent today with Daddy and Grandma. First, Daddy had to get his haircut, so Grandma walked me around Santa Monica and when Daddy was done (and looking quite handsome), we went to lunch at Marcel's. In the afternoon, we took a long walk and just as we were walking down Abbot Kinney, Mommy called. She was coming home a little early so we met her for a coffee (Grandma and me at the coffee shop below).

For dinner, we had a pre-birthday celebration for Daddy at La Botte. In between counting sheep, I heard a lot of chatter in some language (I think it was English, but it could have been Italian....or maybe English with an Italian accent?).

Old News, but forgot to report....

I have TWO teeth!! I got them when we were in Florida....just in time to start eating solids! Maybe you can see in this picture that I am a drooling maniac. Today, we went to the Duck Park and I went on both the slide and the swing. We also went to Spanish storytime and Grandma learned a few Spanish words. Daddy came home tonight! I was wearing a t-shirt that said "My Heart Belongs To Daddy" all day but he didn't see me in it because I was asleep by the time he arrived.

P.S. Irene -- sorry it took me so long to put up a picture of Grandma and me, but my photographers weren't cooperating!



My friends, Julie and Steven, came by to visit late this afternoon. I'm not sure what Julie was doing while I was a busy girl on my exersaucer (see my slide show because I can't seem to upload it here), but I am really glad they came by.

Another Visit from My Friends, Bryon and Safia

Bryon and Safia came this afternoon for an early dinner. Safia played with me a bunch while I was in my Exersaucer. Here are some pics! Safia helped give me my bath and then she hopped in my crib and tried to tuck me in!

Outside the Box!

Today, Grandma, Mommy and I went to a really fun class (called "Outside the Box") at someone's home in Santa Monica. There were 3 other babies there and 2 of them were 5 and 8 days older than me! We sang itsy bitsy spider, played with maracas, flew in a parachute, got massages and more. It was really fun. Grandma took these pictures of me. I fell asleep right away when we got in the car.

Last Day in Boca

Today was the last day of my visit to Mema and Pepa in Boca. Here is a picture of everyone (except Mommy) at breakfast at Mema's and Pepa's place.

Mommy and Daddy took me for a long stroll before breakfast and took more pictures of me in front of flowers (check out my slideshow). We ate lunch at our favorite seafood place, went to the flea market and then off to the airport. I was sad to have to leave Mema and Pepa behind.

Swimming, swimming....I wish!

Today was another fun day here in Boca. First, Mommy, Daddy and Pepa took me to the swing in the morning. Then, we went to visit one of Mema and Pepa's friends briefly (that was where Mommy took a picture of me upside down)....then, we took a nice long walk around the lakes and golf course.

This afternoon, we went to the pool. I am really not supposed to go in because only kiddos who are toilet trained are allowed. Daddy put me in anyway. You know how he doesn't play by the rules.

Vanilla and Chocolate!

Today, I had vanilla and chocolate cookies. Well, at least that's what Mommy told me. After I stared everyone down at dinner, Mommy decided to offer me the crust of wheat bread and then white bread. I sucked on it for a long time...YUMMY! I can't wait to taste more more more.

FUN in Florida

Last night, we took the red eye flight from California to Boca to visit Mema, Pepa and my cousin, Stephanie. I did great on the plane, though I was up a lot more than when we flew to Florida in November. After getting off the plane, we went to a diner for breakfast while we waited for our rental car to be ready.

At lunchtime, we went to the Whaler's Rib and once again, I had formula while everyone else ate all kinds of yummy food....after lunch, Mommy and Stephanie took me for a great surprise. We went to the beach and I put my toes in the water. Check out all the other photos from today up in my slide show. Later, Mommy will upload a video or two.

Milestones...

At 4 1/2 months old, I was sitting up unassisted.....and today, Daddy had me take a walk and got me on video. Okay, so he is helping me along a little, but I think I am going to walk VERY soon. Watch out!

Sprout Baby! Update

We went the Sprout website tonight and much to our surprise, I am featured 4 times !! Here's the link! See if you can find me.
http://www.sproutkidsclothing.com/photopage.html

Mommy just received the photo they want to use from the Sprout photo shoot. Funny, no one has told me that my back side is my best part (yet)....I am usually known for my smile. Maybe it's good because in LA, you always want to operate undercover. Now, no one will know who I am but I can still collect my royalties!

Shopping....am I ready for Century Village, or what?

After breakfast, Mommy and Daddy took me to Loehmann's and then to H&M in the Beverly Center. Mommy tells me that H&M is supposed to be hip and cool, but honestly, if you look at my outfit on the right, you would think that I am getting ready for Century Village when we go to Boca to visit Mema and Pepa next weekend. Century Village, here I come!

Off to Beverly Hills for breakfast!

This morning, Mommy and I went to breakfast in Beverly Hills with Mommy's colleague, Jackie, her daughter, Katie and their friends. I loved hanging out with Katie. Sure, she is 11 and I am only 5 months, but I think we could be friends.

TGIF!!!!

Thank god it's Friday.

I had a great week but this is a 3 day weekend and we have lots of fun stuff planned.

Tonight my BFF Peri is coming over for dinner and she is bringing me a new brand of baby food that she wants me to test for the company that makes it. I hope it is as good as the food my dad makes me.

I asked Mom and Dad to take me shopping for a new car seat this weekend since I will soon be too big for my infant seat. I think I want it soon so I can put the new car seat in Nanny G's car. That way she can take me to the library during the week any time I want to go.

Also my friend Kent is coming into town again this weekend. He is taking Tango lessons to prepare for an upcoming trip to Buenos Aires. It would be fun to go with him but I cannot go away for that long - Mom and Dad need me to help out here at home.

I think Dad will cook some stuff on the BBQ this weekend and maybe other friends will drop by because the weather here at the beach will be fantastic.

If I don't get a chance to talk to you over the weekend - Enjoy the Holiday

What a BEAUTIFUL day

Today I had so much fun! First, Kent came to visit....then, I had two friends over (Siona and Naomi). After Siona and Naomi left, we went for a long beach walk.... I took a nap and woke up just in time to go down the slide with Mommy. Then, we went to Baja Cantina to meet Kenny for a drink ... I really liked him and smiled a lot for him (see my slideshow where I am smiling at him). Mommy and Daddy then took me to Moth

er's Beach to that swing that I love and did I have a great time. Can't you see how happy I am?

Photo Shoot Today

UPDATE from today....First, I need to thank my agent, Julie, for getting me this awesome gig. They LOVED me. I modeled two onesies and I think they got some great photos. We will post them once we receive them (in a week or so). We were told that they will probably invite me back for another shoot....maybe when their Fall line comes out? Can't wait!



Today, I am going to get my picture taken in clothing from http://www.sproutkidsclothing.com/. I have never modeled before, so I guess this is my debut. They will let me have the clothing I wear and the pictures! I guess if they come out well, I may appear on their website or maybe in print materials.


Here I am in a picture this week with Mystic. I am wearing my cool flamingo bib from my Aunt Donna, Uncle Tom and cousins.

Also, my Nanny G started a "Nanny Times" about the time we spend together. If you click on the link under my Slide Show, you will be able to see a picture of me, Nanny G, Camille and Mystic....

I am a Democrat!

Yesterday was Super Tuesday. After work, Mommy and Daddy and I went to vote at the school on Anchorage. I was barely out of the voting booth when I just couldn't stay awake any longer.

Swinging at Mother's Beach

Today, Daddy and I walked Mommy to the gym. Mommy had a great idea. Even though it was a bit windy, she thought I might like to try the swing at Mother's Beach which overlooks the boats in the marina. Although you can't see my face in this picture (and the picture isn't great quality because it was from Daddy's phone), I was smiling and loving the swing. I wasn't in it for too long because it was a bit chilly....but, we will definitely go back on a sunnier day.



Go Giants! (That was for Grandpa)

Visiting Ella Bella

We went to Long Beach today to visit Ella Bella and her Mom and Dad. Ella shared her toys with me.....lots of books and stuffed animals. Mommy and Daddy ate a delicious meal of salmon and risotto made by Ella's Daddy. I then napped for 2 1/2 hours on the couch. Mommy and Ella's Mommy joined me for the last hour while Daddy and Ella's Daddy took Ella to the park and to get a coffee. We had a really fun day.

Bumbo and Book

Yesterday, Daddy and Nanny G took me to Target and bought me a purple bumbo. This morning, I tried it out while reading my new book from Grandma and Grandpa. I will be sitting up soon on my own and then I won't need the bumbo, but for now, it is fun to be able to sit in it and read.

Proof that I am ready for the real thing

Not Coca Cola....not that real thing. I am ready for solids....but Dr. Hamilton said not quite yet. This morning Mommy was eating a banana and I kept staring at it because it looked like something I wanted to touch....well, maybe eat. Mommy told me that we will start rice cereal at the end of February....hmm, another month to go. Well, at least I tried.

Hungry for more!!!

Today I asked mom and dad to replace all my small 4 ounce bottles with bigger 8 ounce bottles so I can get enough food. I am always waking up hungry and I hope if I eat more I will sleep more and grow more and smile more. There is only one negative side effect (pooping more).

Hedges and Fences, oh my!

Last night, I went with Mommy and Daddy to the Venice Neighborhood Council meeting. First, we went to dinner at Lilly's on Abbot Kinney. I slept through most of the VNC meeting. The purpose of the meeting was for our neighbors to discuss/give feedback on what we all think about enforcing the 1981 law in all of Los Angeles prohibiting the building of a hedge or fence higher than 3 1/2 feet. I heard a lot of noise in between dreams....95% of the people there want their fences and hedges to protect their children from predators and for privacy and other reasons. I don't play in the yard yet and we didn't have a fence/hedge before we started building my new house, but I was glad to hear my other young neighborhood friends who stood up and were against enforcement (including a 6 year old who had a statement!). The picture below was taken this morning at 8 am when Mommy and Daddy came in my room and started singing to me. Off to another day with my Nanny G. I really like her.

Camille sneaking on Gabrielle's blog....

Hi everyone. This is Camille sneaking up on Gabrielle's blog while she is taking a nap. These pictures were taken by Daddy last night....my two dog beds were put on the lounger to dry since it has been raining and Mommy and Daddy caught me sleeping on it. Aren't I cute?

Woof,

Camille

My new trick

I have a new trick....remember how I told you how much I love to lie in my crib and watch my animals up above. Well, as of today, I have figured out how to grab them and put them in my mouth. Mommy and Daddy thought it was funny. They took a bunch of pictures of me. But, I heard them whispering....I think they are now worried that I might pull the mobile down. Hopefully, that doesn't mean they will take it away....I will be very sad.

Naartjie Sale! -- 40% off!!

In addition to going out to breakfast with Isabel on Saturday, Mommy and I went to Naartjie. Little did we know that there would be a 40% off sale. Mommy bought me some cool and trendy new outfits....she wants to make sure I live up to my title "Gabrielle, the Fashionista of Venice". After a long day of shopping, we went to lunch at Gaby's. While Mommy and Daddy ate, I entertained the other customers.

I had a GREAT weekend

This weekend was so much fun. I have been too busy to post to update you on all of the happenings until now.

First, Mommy and I went to breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien with my new friend, Isabel, and her Mommy, Ariel. Mommy and Ariel caught up over oatmeal...Isabel had some of her Mommy's oatmeal, but I was happy with my bottle.

I hope I get to see more of Isabel soon....she has a great stash of toys. Maybe next time we will hang at her house and play.

Happy Birthday Mema

Today was my Mema's* (Grandmother's) birthday and we had a big party at our house to celebrate. She lives in Boca Raton, FL and from what I hear she is having a week long celebration for her birthday. She has so many great friends that she cannot fit all the celebration into a single day like the rest of us.

If you did not yet wish Mema a Happy Birthday please email or call her right away.

* I call her Mema even though her name is Ruth. Mema is a nickname given to her by my Cousin Michael about 16 years ago when he was not much older than me.

Another Celebration

Tonight we were on the "A List" thanks to Helen and Steve Hansen who hosted us at Toscana Restaurant in celebration of their daughter Peri's birthday. Peri is my best friend and I love her very much.

Also in attendance at the restaurant tonight were Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner and their daughter Violet. It was a good thing we had my stroller with the paparazzi shield so I did not have to deal with all those photographers.

Anyway for dinner we had a lot of great food and I highly recommend the restaurant. Whether you are having a Salad and Pizza or Grilled Branzino or Raspberries and Cream, the food is delish (and way better than Similac)!!!

Thanks again Helen and Steve!!!!

Friendship

This evening my friend Safia came to visit with her father Bryon. She is in this picture with me and mom. He and my dad are old friends and I love when I get to see Safia and him because they are really good people and lots of fun.

They arrived in time for us to walk down to the beach for sunset tonight. After the sun went down we walked home and dad and Bryon cooked up an amazing BBQ with Chicken, Ribs, Sausage and Scallops all cooked on Bryon's New Braunfels Black Diamond Smoker that is now at our house because Bryon has no room at his place.

The food was great and the company was even better.

Hurray, it's the weekend

Today we are having a big BBQ with Bryon and Safia and we will try to get to the beach for sunset. Watch for new photos tomorrow of me and those spectacular colors in the sky.

I am asking dad to make some Chili Colorado with any of the leftover chicken from the BBQ. He has a stash of roasted Hatch Chilis from New Mexico in the freezer that our friends Julie and Steven brought at the end of Chili Season this fall. Let me know if you want the recipe - just email me at grs919@gmail.com

Another nap another sunset

This afternoon I took a walk to the beach with Dad and on the way there I fell asleep but thank heaven Dad woke me up when we got there because as you can see from the picture it was a beautiful sunset.

This picture was taken at the Venice Pier which is around the corner from our house. There were lots of surfers out and all the restaurants on Washington Blvd were filling up so I had a lot of fun people watching.

Yesterday went smoothly for all

My new Nanny started yesterday and all went smooth. She calls herself Grace but I will be calling her NannyG as I am BabyG.

NannyG and I hit it off and she gives me unlimited attention and cares for me very well. She took me for a walk on the Canals and then over to the Beach (just like mom and dad do with me). I will post some photos of me and her next week.

Coffee and Home Depot

The line for coffee at Joni's was so long this morning that we went next door to Noah's. Afterwards I went for a very long walk with my dad in the Marina. When we got home he took me to Home Depot (boring) so we could get some extension cords for his temporary "Garage Office". I didn't have that much fun at Home Depot but I did go to see the plants in the nursery department and I saw lots of great colored flowers. I spent the rest of the afternoon playing with my animals and took a nap or two.

Couldn't sleep at all today

Most people worry about sleeping at night - no problem for me!!! But I usually also sleep for a few hours during the day - but today I couldn't.

Not sure why. Maybe it was the weather - one of those perfect clear warm SoCal winter days. Maybe it was one fun event after another - going to the beach, visiting our new house under construction and seeing where my room is going to be, taking a walk with our builder Dan Howard (he s a cool guy) to check out some roofing ideas, visiting with Sharon, Rebecca and Isabella and then going to Trader Joe's with dad.

Anyway the day is over and I am completely exhausted so I am finally going to sleep.

Good night everyone...