Why We Love Venice

Pictures from today's Abbott Kinney Festival...obviously taken by Mama because I was sleeping!

My Birthday Party!

Even though my party didn't start with the cake, I thought I would on my blog entry. I didn't eat much of it, but I sure LOVED it. How could I not? Elmo, Big Bird, Abby, Cookie Monster and the ocean all in one cake? Here I am with Gracie....can you see my smiling Grandpa in the background just to the right of Gracie?

Michael, Zoe and Evan trying to make a monkey

Judy, David and Saya

Steven having tea with Meaza in the tent!

Playdoh snake by Meaza

Gracie, Zoe and me

Nyla!

One of my boyfriends (Melese)

Ariel and Isabel (chatting with Julie and Melese)

Shhh. My other boyfriend, James.

Daddy nibbling my elbow

Ring around the Rosie with Nyla

Meaza in the stroller with a baby

Sad at the end of the party....with Richard and NannyG

Bye bye...

My Birthday with my peeps....

Today was my birthday....my 2nd birthday! I woke up and had a wonderful breakfast with my peeps (Mama, Daddy, Mema, Pepa, Grandpa and Grandma). I put on my Elmo hat, gave Camille a kiss and was ready to start the day!

We went horseback riding! (well, I did)

Hugged

Had some popcorn

And rode the train

Then, after ALL that and a little nap, we dove into my cupcake

We played a little music. Grandma and Grandpa brought back this guitar for me from their cruise to Mexico last week. It has my name on it!

And, Mama gave me this toaster so that I could make her a complete breakfast (instead of just eggs and tea)

At night, we went to Gaby's....a mediterranean restaurant. We didn't just go there because it has my name in it, but we actually love the food. I went there when I was only 5 days old. While waiting, I tried out every bike there was.

And, Pepa took me for a ride!

After a long day, I conked out while everyone enjoyed their dinner.

Two Years Ago Today....by Mama

Two years ago today was one of the happiest days of my life...we waited and waited and waited for this day. Thirteen days after you were "due", you were here. I never could have imagined I would be rewarded with such a funny, sweet, compassionate, affectionate, energetic, smart daughter. You give me and Daddy so much joy every day. I never could have imagined I would have so much love for a little 8 lb baby and then that love would continue to grow. My heart is so full today as it is every day when I think about you. How lucky I am to be your Mama.

My 2 Year Appointment with Dr. Hamilton

Today, we went to the doctor for my checkup. I am now onto the routine and not happy about it. Before I was brought back to "the room", I was crying and said "No Doctor", "Mama Car".

This is a picture of me after Dr. H checked me out and the nursed weighed me, but before the dreaded shots. Mommy was going to bribe me with the carrot of a lollipop for after my shots, but I was so upset that she gave it to me before the shots to calm me down. For the most part it worked.

So, here are my stats....I am 35 1/4 inches (only 3/4 inch before I can ride the 3 foot minimum height requirement rides at the Santa Monica Pier) -- 80th percentile for height. I grew 1 1/2 inches since my last appointment in April. I weighed 28 lbs (75th percentile for weight). I put on 1 1/2 lbs since April. Doc says all is good and he will see me in 6 months (well, I heard some whispering and I might have to go back for some missed shots before then).

My friend, Elena (by Mama)

I have so many friends through my struggle to become a Mom. Elena is one such friend. Her struggle was harder than mine and was filled with more heartache than anyone should have to bear. She is a mama to 5 children and 1 incredible husband. Unfortunately, three of her children are not here with her, but are held very close to her heart. I learned last night about some horrible news that will once again test Elena. Really, though. Hasn't she had enough? Look at this lovely couple. Their strength is awe-inspiring and will get them through the coming days.

Have you ever seen a more beautiful smile?

Today, Gabrielle and I visited Elena and her family. Elena's husband and children need her. Please give her the strength to fight and win.

School Picnic in Temescal Canyon

This morning, we went to a picnic for my school with 40 other families. Unfortunately, my webmaster isn't comfortable posting photos of others, so that you can get to know some of my new friends, so you will have to keep with me through words. Here Grandma and I were taking turns bouncing on the ball....."Grandma's turn".

And, Daddy was teaching me how to fly.

Wouldn't be a school outing without paint. Patricia thinks paint should be everywhere!

We played music and listened to a performance by a friend of Jim's. He was able to make all kinds of animal sounds through a hollowed out tree.

And, of course, I am the baby magnet. Her mama even let me hold her!

We had a wonderful time. My new friends are so much fun and they have very cool Mommies and Daddies. I look forward to going every week!