May Days

May has really been all over the place around here. The beginning was particularly rough, with Lia and I both sick (again!), but it feels like I often write about the “challenging” things going on, so this time I’m choosing to focus on the positive, of which there have been many!

Mother’s Day was very special – brunch at my sister’s house, Skyping with east coast family as they celebrated my mom’s surprise 65th birthday/mother’s day lunch, then a lovely afternoon as a family at the Oregon Garden. We picnicked and strolled around the beautiful acres of grounds, soaking in the warm sun and delicious smells – all the while getting inspiration for our own yard and garden. I’ve been having fun getting our herb and vegetable garden going and am experimenting with some new things this year.

Liana has finally reached the solid food phase, and has taken to it like a fish to water. With the first bite of rice cereal, we swear she babbled something that sounded like, “Aaahhhh. Finally.” It’s cute to see her sitting in the booster seat with her food-smattered bib, mouth open like a little bird waiting for more. Some days she’s more interested than others, but so far she hasn’t completely refused any particular food. (Surely that day will come! :-)

We recently welcomed a new member of our family! His name is Bob and he has three wheels and a leash. Yes, we are in love with our “BOB” jogging stroller, having already used it a number of times for runs along the Portland waterfront. It’s provided us with a win-win situation: The adults get some much-needed exercise while the baby gets to watch the world whizz by in the comfort of her own cozy seat, complete with blanket and teething toys. We’ve been thoroughly happy with our (not cheap!) purchase.

Liana also had her first true babysitter last Friday night, giving us a much anticipated dinner out at Higgins – my favorite Portland restaurant. Our neighbor, whose two boys are in high school and college, was elated when we asked for the favor and she had a lot of fun getting her “baby fix”. It’s neat to be the youngest family on our small cul-de-sac, and Liana really gets her share of attention from everyone.

Liana is much more engaged in her toys these days, smiling and laughing when she likes something. Here’s a cute video of her enthralled by one of her new, favorite discoveries: a balloon.

And finally, another one of Lia's favorite things…blowing raspberries.