ciuni babe

Videos - Just a Weekend

2012-01-29T20:29:00.000-08:00

Random clips from the weekend.

First, they love doing this: Mia feeds him and he eats.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Next, walking around the beach.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Photo Dump

2012-01-28T13:34:00.000-08:00

I have not posted many photos the last couple weeks, so here is a photo dump from my camera. Its all Emerson because Mia is going through an anti-photo phase. I guess its not cool to be mama's subject these days...

This was his face after spotting a UPS truck. He was stunned. Such a boy!

The only photo of Mia is from a distance where she couldn't refuse a picture. She still managed to give me a dirty look though.

Doodle loves walking while holding on to anything that rolls. This week he did take one single real step too. I haven't been able to get him to repeat it.

Big Sister

2012-01-23T09:13:00.000-08:00

It's a hard life when you are Mia's little brother...

Was I this way with my baby brother?

Mama & Mia at the Mall

2012-01-21T17:04:00.000-08:00

It was raining and Mia had the sniffles. So I knew it was time for another Mama & Mia mall trip. We went to Sephora, rode the carousel and had some lunch. Then we went home happy.

Doodle, he was running errands with Papa.

A New Trick

2012-01-16T20:04:00.000-08:00

The newest trick he does:

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Birthday Plus

2012-01-14T20:35:00.000-08:00

This weekend was my birthday. Pre-children we had a tradition of celebrating my birthday with breakfast at the Montage, the fanciest resort in Southern CA. We'd sit outside with a view of the ocean, comment about the lovely January weather and then gossip or dicsuss work and politics.

This year we went to see Beauty and the Beast with a tired and hungry (= cranky) Mia in tow.

I was emailing a friend afterwards, telling her birthdays just aren't what they used to be.

Well, ice-cream cake makes everything better.

Plus...

There's a benefit to waking up before the sun. You get to see this in the morning from your bedroom window:

Plus...

Mia found my wedding shoes in a box in the closet.

Mia: Oooooh! I love these! Mama, what are these?

Mama: My wedding shoes from when we got married.

Mia: Can you get married again?

Mama: No. You only get married once.
Mia: But I want to get married. Can I get married?
Mama: Sure. When you find someone you love forever.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Plus...

We had a mess of epic proportions.

Plus...

My Director took Papa to the shooting range. And Papa was not bad at all for his first time.

Discoveries

2012-01-08T19:34:00.000-08:00

Today Em discovered ice cream.

And Mia discovered yet another pink, fluffy, girly store that she went nuts over.

That's where she got the hair clips.

(after rediscovering the carousel, that is).

8 Months Old

2012-01-07T19:39:00.000-08:00

Wow, you have grown so much this past month, my little 8 month old. You are so much fun.

If I had to describe you at 8 months in one word it would be PLAYFUL. You are learning how to play by imitation. You watch us playing with instruments, cars, balls, etc, then do the same.

I can't believe how much you play, for such a little guy. You take a ball and throw it against the floor, watch it bounce and roll away as you laugh, then you go get it and do it again. You even know where to sit (on floor, not carpet) for the best bouncing.

The other game you love is pushing cars around. I know older boys often drive cars around, but I can't believe you do it already.

You started saying a few words. Mostly repeating what we say, but sometimes saying them on your own.

"Mama" - you have said it a couple times unprovoked while looking at me. Usually it sounds more like mamamamam.

"A-Go" - This is your way of saying lets go. You say it often after I say lets go. Sometimes when you want me to pick you up.

"Mmmmowm" - This is how you say more. You say it when you want more puffs. You love them puffs!

"Kissssahhh" - This is how you say kiss. Whenever I lay you down on your changing table I say "Kiss" and then kiss your belly and feet. A couple times you repeated it after me. Then a couple other times you said it as soon as I laid you down on the table.

"Umm" - You say this when you want food I'm eating. I think its because I always tell you yum when you're eating.

You make a "ga" sound to a lot of things. Like every time you see a dog. And a "da" sound when you see a bird. Maybe you are pronouncing the last letter of each word? I'm not sure.

Aside from those sounds, you are a babbling machine, babbling all day. And you understand many other words that we say. When we ask you where your truck is, you laugh and get it.

You easily pull yourself up to standing and are walking around if we're holding your hands.

You love pureed fruit, especially apples and pears. You love bananas and grapes. You are not so fond of veggies but I try to shovel as much squash and carrots as I can into you. Your absolute favorite is food is bread. You can gum a piece of french bread for nearly an hour without making a sound. That's how we get through dinner these days.

You started taking Mia's toys away from her, always wanting what she's holding. Of course Mia always wants what you're holding too. And neither one of you likes sharing So the fighting, bickering and sibling rivalry has officially begun.

You're getting a little bit better about strangers and have actually been quite friendly to a select few of strangers. Totally random people are in, like Papa's partner from work, who came over for dinner. Or a friend's boyfriend whom we ran into by chance. Yet you cry when your grandparents want to hold you. You funny boy!

One of your top teeth has peaked out this week, finally. Your teeth are very slow, lingering just under the surface for longer than any of us hoped for (weeks!).

Weight and height will have to be updated on Monday, when we go your 8 month check up.

8 months old!! Can I start planning your birthday already?

Weeknight Madness

2012-01-04T20:45:00.000-08:00

Weeknights are absolutely nuts at our house. I rush in from work around 5pm and begin making dinner, without even having a chance to change my work clothes.

Mia and Emi are either playing or whining. Sometimes both.

I feed Mia while entertaining her with a book or a game (distractions are required to make sure she eats all her meat and veggies). We get done by around 6pm.

Emi is usually going crazy by then. I give him some dinner too. Usually carrots with rice cereal. If he's really lucky, he'll get pears with oatmeal instead.

Papa is done working by 6:30 and we try to have dinner too. This is harder than it sounds. We bribe Emi with puffs so that he's quiet. And hope that Mia finds something to do, which is usually messy. Our dinner lasts about 10 minutes.

Afterwards, one of us cleans up while the other watches the M&Em's. They both start acting tired and wacky. Emerson is too tired to crawl well on the slippery floor and looks like he's on a Slip n' Slide. Mia has had a long day and is yelling nonsense. And Papa is egging on the wackiness.

By 7pm I take Emi up to his room to change into PJ's and have a bottle.

The madness all ends with something like this every night:

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Staycation Finale

2012-01-01T20:22:00.000-08:00

I first heard of the term staycation a couple of years ago. Maybe I was the last one to learn of it. Its a vacation where you stay local, or even at home.

Our staycation ended on Sunday. Mia went back to preschool and Papa went back to work on Monday. I have one more day off, which will be spent cleaning up the disaster.

I'm tired. But its a good tired. Tired from doing all the things that made our time together well spent. Hanging out with the M&Ems, cooking, playing.

So on our last day of vacation I wanted to go to one of my favorite places - the lemon tree park.

Emerson sat by the lemon trees.

He tried grapes for the first time (and liked them, despite the face he made here).

Mia fell in the mud AGAIN! That makes twice in one week. I didn't have another pair of pants for her so she had to wear Em's pants. And they fit (as capris)!

Mia picked lemons from the trees

Then back at home, one last treat for Papa in the evening...

Dulce de Leche Coffee with Whiskey:

Add 1 tablespoon of Dulce de Leche to 2 shots of very hot coffee; stir until completely dissolved.

Make whippe d cream by combining cream with powdered sugar and whipping until stiff.

Add 3 tablespoons Kahlua to each coffee cup. Add 2 tablespoons whiskey or brandy.

Top with whipped cream and grated dark chocolate.

Enjoy cold, by dropping a cube of ice in it, or leave it hot.

Hello 2012

2011-12-31T19:08:00.000-08:00

Our year ended with sunny, blue skies

and greenish grey eyes

one last roadtrip to Seaworld

board games at night

and puppet shows

hot chocolate with all the trimmings

while watching Tangled

things that never get old.

Empanadas

butternut squash soup, a first meal shared with Emerson

and pink, bubbly New Year's Eve cupcakes

only a taste for Emerson

This New Year's Eve I gave Emi his bedtime bottle. When he finished and fell asleep, I held him longer instead of putting him in his crib.

I thought of last year.

Midway through my pregnancy.

It's a boy!

Good results from the amnio.

The words of my doctor music to my ears,

A PERFECT BOY.

And me, joyful but sick as a dog

knowing from experience I had another 5 months of sickness to go.

I thought of this year.

Here with my baby boy

sleeping comfortably on me.

Teething, poor thing.

Perfect, indeed.

I thought of next year.

He will be 20 months old,

a full blown toddler.
Time is a funny thing.

In the not too distant future I will look at my photos of tonight and say, "Can you believe how tiny he was!" Just like we say about Mia.

So if I could just hold for a minute, this baby on New Year's Eve, I will make the moment last.

And while I'm sitting peacefully thinking (this never happens)

I will wish a happy new year to my dear family and friends.

The ones near,

and the ones far, too far.

and a happy new year

2011-12-30T22:13:00.000-08:00

Cleaned Up

2011-12-28T19:14:00.000-08:00

The M&Ems and I went for a walk today and had an unfortunate incident involving huge muddy puddles. We rushed home wet and cold. But all ended well.

This is what followed:

ahhh...fresh babies.

The Day After

2011-12-27T16:27:00.000-08:00

The days right after the holidays are some of the best days of the year. I still have some time off work. Everything is calm. The stress of cooking, cleaning, gifting and visiting is over. I feel refreshed and renewed. Ready for a new year. Ready for Spring. Ready to forget the chaos of the holidays again for another year.

I asked Mia what she wanted to do on December 26th, telling her we could do whatever she wanted.

The girl exclaimed "Park!! Park!!"

And the boy yelled, "Baa Baa! Babababa!"

So that is exactly what we did.

xmas 2011

2011-12-24T22:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas this year was sunny and gorgeous. After a few very cold weeks, it was lovely to wake up and feel the warm sun as we spent the day busy with festivities.

On xmas eve day we stayed in our pajamas till the afternoon. Then we got to work on building a gingerbread house.

I looked online to find a cake to make for Christmas when I suddenly ran across something that looked very familiar.

The name, Turkish Beigli, did not ring a bell. But looking at the picture I could almost taste my grandma's cake. I guess I just never knew it had a name, other than "grandma's cake the one with the nut filling."

I read more and found out it was a very popular holiday dessert in parts of Europe. Usually filled with nuts or poppy seeds, my grandma also fills it with chocolate. I had to make it.

I was so pleasantly surprised when I sunk my teeth into it and felt like I was transported to my grandma's kitchen. Not as good as hers, but close enough.

In the afternoon we went to Nona's house for dinner and gift opening.

We took our annual Worst-Photo-of-the-Year, which has become a tradition. I set the camera timer, run into the picture, as we all look in different directions, making the freakiest faces we can. Fun.

Emerson topped off the night with a piano performance.

Xmas day we woke up to find a couple more gifts for Mia and Emi.

Being good paid off this year.

Paid off big time. Because the very last gift was the one thing Mia has consistently asked for this year.

Twinkle Toe shoes!

After the last gift was opened I begged everyone for a couple hours to clean and cook our dinner. Papa took the M&Ems to the park and I started working.

After dinner and way past bedtime, Emi was still being silly, refusing to sleep. He wouldn't stop laughing to himself, for no apparent reason. I started wondering if Papa slipped him some wine. I finally gave up and watched him laugh until he collapsed into a pile of sleepy sweetness.

Emi drunk on life:

Pre-Weekend

2011-12-23T19:24:00.000-08:00

Our weekend started Thursday night. We went out to buy some stuff for our holiday cooking plans.

And while at the store, we also had some pizza.

Friday Papa and I had a real date! It was the first time we have gone out alone since Doodle was born.

I signed Mia up for Winter Camp so she was still in preschool on Friday. And it was fabulously relaxing.

We started off with breakfast.

Then some shopping. Rings (for Mia) and cupcakes (for Mama).

We picked up the M&Em's and chilled out at home in the soft light of Hanukkah candles.

A Holiday-Filled Weekend

2011-12-18T19:57:00.001-08:00

We did so much this weekend. And we didn't even get to do half of what I wanted to do.
I worked on Mia's table. Its close to being done. I took our cheap, old kid's table and chairs, painted them white, glued beads to the surface of the table, then used epoxy resin to create a plastic coating to seal the beads in.

We made a mini candyland tree.

We painted a dreidel.

We learned to fight back.

We braved the mall. It was as crazy as you would expect it to be a week before christmas. But I was at risk of going stir crazy in the house. And I was too cold to be outside.

We rode reindeer.
And, we even worked on the house. All while Mia and Em still have colds. Man, I am EXHAUSTED.
What we didn't get to:
The Santa Train, seeing our neighborhood lights, making a Gingerbread House. And most importantly, I didn't get to make Mia's treasure box, which will be her Christmas/Hannukah gift from me. So all these things will have to wait till next Friday and Saturday.

Oh! And I finally finished our holiday cards, which will be in the mail tomorrow. Better late than never...

Goodnight.

Love is...

2011-12-15T08:09:00.000-08:00

this little critter, rolling around on my floor, even though he was up since 1am. Love is.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Baking Cookies

2011-12-14T15:19:00.000-08:00

The fun part for Mia is making a mess. For Papa its eating. And for me, just watching them.

Santa's Return

2011-12-11T20:59:00.000-08:00

After our failed attempt to interact with Santa at the mall, we were lucky to have another chance. Our friends had a Christmas party and Santa was, of course, invited. Mia was loving it.

Watching Santa come in...

That look on her face really was priceless.

It was late by the time Santa made his appearance. And Mia was one of the last ones to be called up. Here she is, patiently waiting for her turn to get a gift from Santa...

Finally...

Emerson was sort of interested in the tree. But mostly just tired.

7 Months Old

2011-12-05T15:30:00.000-08:00

This month you have become much more involved in our daily family life. When we eat dinner, you want something too. You play with your sister. You laugh when we laugh. You hang out with us in bed on weekend mornings. You are zooming around the floor, following us like a shadow, either in your walker or by crawling.

You started recognizing some words and you look at the object I'm naming. You know Mia, robot, outside and bath. You also don't like strangers and start crying if anyone suspicious talks to you.

You started snacking on finger foods, and you really do love eating. You love puffs and get really mad when we don't give you more. I think you could eat the whole box, if I let you.

You are pulling yourself up to standing position while holding the couch. You find mirrors very entertaining. You love playing games. Some of the favorites are throwing balls and playing chase. You chase me around the house in your walker. Then run away as I turn around to chase you. It is hysterical how you run away screaming, laughing and waving your arms in the air. The closer I get to you, the more excited you become. The more noise, the better. You are very much a stereotypical boy who likes food and active games.

Yet you have a soft side too when we play. I blow bubbles on your neck, belly and legs. You laugh and laugh. Then you kick until I do it again. I snuggle up to your cheek. Your eyes shine with love. You are so sweet.

This is a very exciting time and I can see your brain working, making connections and learning. You amaze me every day in your development and comprehension. Keep on going, little Doodle.

Mia's Haircut

2011-12-05T08:09:00.001-08:00

Mia got a haircut.

The story: Mia's hair was getting too long and not looking healthy. I decided to give it a trim. 1 inch. But my lack of haircutting skills became glaringly obvious. I had to keep evening it out.

1 inch became 2 inches.

That very same day I was in the garage working on reviving Mia's art table. I was using epoxy resin.

(Perhaps too ambitious of a project. Instead of settling for just spraypainting the table, I decided to create an intricate tabletop with beads embedded on the surface. Photos will be coming soon when I'm done.)

Mia ran into the garage, despite attempts to keep her inside.

Mama: Don't come close, ok? Stay right here.
Mia: I want to see.

Mama: See me wearing gloves? You can't touch this. Its a bad chemical. If you get it on you, it won't come off.

Mia: Can I come see? I won't touch it.

Mama: Ok, but be very careful not to trip. No Jumping. No running.

Mia: OK

At this point she carefully walked over. And carefully bent down, sticking her hair right into the surface. Seriously.

That'll teach me a thing about 3 year old.

We tried washing her hair, but it dried with a plastic-like coating on it. There was no choice. Another 1-2 inches came off the hair.

Cutting her hair made it straight! I LOVE it straight and think she looks so cute and so grown up. And she now looks like me! Especially when I was her age. I think we want to keep it this way. YAY!

Aquarium of the Pacific

2011-12-04T11:10:00.000-08:00

My work gave me 2 free tickets to the aquarium. It was Doodle's first time, MishMash's second. This time Mia was super interested in everything and didn't want to miss a single creature. It was really fun to see her get so into it. She was running around yelling "And what's this?!"

Em too was thrilled about the underwater discovery. He didn't nap at all, but kept kicking in excitement in the Bjorn.

Front row seats on the Papa Bench.

Snacks included
You can't tell from these photos, but I swear I was there too. I was the annoying lady with the truck-sized double stroller trying to snap photos and getting in everyone's way.

Thanks for the ride, Papa!

Scooters and Mirrors

2011-11-28T13:10:00.001-08:00

You may have seen a 6 month old baby's reaction to his reflection before. Its really funny and cute.

But I doubt you've ever seen a 6 month old baby on a pink scooter. Even funnier and cuter...

Crawl

2011-11-27T13:11:00.001-08:00

A Day NOT Made for Photos

2011-11-26T19:30:00.001-08:00

Its funny how some things seem like they would be great photo opportunities,

so you take the kids with high hopes, but then you end up with nothing but this:

And you think, well, I'll get some decent shots when we go visit Santa Claus. But after you take one practice shot just to adjust the camera settings, this evil little elf in Santa's house tells you she can't allow more than one photo if you're using your own camera.

So again, all you have is this:

Ugh...at least Mia had fun.

The New Park

2011-11-25T20:32:00.000-08:00

We kept promising MishMash a trip to the new park once we were settled in. Finally, we were able to come through on the promise...

When we got home we couldnt unlock the front door. And Em had a big poopy diaper. Lovely morning!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T19:22:00.000-08:00

There is much to be thankful for.

Even though I am exhausted.
Even though work has been a battle.
Even though I was doubting if the recent move to our new home was smart.
Even though Em and Mia don't seem to be letting up on the colds (and its only November).

Around 1pm my boss told me to go home and to have a good Thanksgiving. (I am thankful for him).

When I got home Mia was still at preschool. I had a couple of glorious hours to spend with Doodle. We spent it outside, exploring our new neighborhood.

The BS I've been carrying from work started to slip away. Stress from the daily demands melted away too. Time finally gave me a break, as it slowed down to an enjoyable pace. It may have even stopped for a few minutes.

When you take the time to look around, it becomes obvious that there is much to be thankful for. Even those new pesky little teeth.

Progress

2011-11-20T20:45:00.000-08:00

It was cold and rainy all weekend. I guess it was for the best because we were forced to stay home and unpack. That's a hard thing to do with a 3-year-old who is asking for something every minute she's awake and a very cranky, teething 6-month-old.

But we worked on E's room. It's basically Mia's old room with a spacey/robot theme. Good thing the color scheme fits a boy's room.

I had fun reinventing Mia's room. Pink and purple, of course. No other colors exist in her world these days.

We got a good grip on the family room (playroom). I love the way it turned out. Very bright and playful.

The kitchen is fully stocked. We've even cooked a few meals.

The yard is...wet. Though I did start a project out there re-finishing a table.

Th living room is looking good (oops, forgot photos).

And my bedroom still looks like it did the day we moved in.

In the mirror...

And this sums up how I feel this wet Sunday evening:

The Move

2011-11-18T11:45:00.000-08:00

There was a time when Papa and I moved the entire contents of our apartment in the back of his Chevy S-10 pick-up truck. Oh, how I longed for those days last weekend during our move. The words of our nanny kept ringing in my ears, "The less things you have, the easier life is."

So true. So true.

I could not believe the amount of stuff we had. It really was incredible. As many trips as I made to the trash bin, I couldn't get rid of the junk fast enough. And when everything was finally in the new place, I swore to Papa that 1) I will never buy anything else again for myself and 2) I will never move again.

Now we are trying to sort through the mountain of stuff and organize the new place. Our goal is to have a pleasant (NEAT AND ORDERLY) Thanksgiving weekend. Wish us luck!

Mia and Em, by the way, have no problems with the mess.

Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah

2011-11-08T20:46:00.001-08:00

The Girl talks nonstop these days. Her imagination is wild. If she's awake, she's talking. I don't remember what silence sounds like anymore. I can hardly take a photo of her where her mouth isn't moving. Are all 3 year olds like this?

I taped her talking in the bath for nearly 10 minutes straight. I've edited it down to a few clips...

6 Months Old

2011-11-06T20:03:00.001-08:00

One morning, bright and early, you woke up and you were half a year old.

"Little dude, please go back to sleep. I'm so tired. Its still pitch black outside." I pleaded.

But you raised your little head, eyes wide open, and looked for me. You always look for me in the morning then smile when you find me.

I knew you were done sleeping. So I snuck you out to the living room before you could wake up Mia and Papa. Those two lucky dogs were still tucked deep in their warm slumber.

But I was lucky too because we played until the sun came up. You showed me how close you were to crawling - rocking on your knees now. You reminded me what an awesome sense of humor you have as you played peek-a-boo with me. You initiated the game by hiding behind a toy and peering out. You showed me what a short fuse you had when I took away a tube of your butt cream that you wanted to chew on. Oh man, were you pissed when I offered you Lion instead.

Then we spent some time not playing anything, just gazing. You never simply glance at me. No. You gaze into my eyes with a smile, your eyes scanning every fiber of my face.

This month has been tough. You got a stomach virus that really turned your digestive system upside down. We've spent the better part of the month trying to get you back on track. Dr. Lin suggested skipping your 6-month vaccine until you were recovered. But we did get your stats: 20 lbs and 26.5 inches.

You got your first tooth this month. And, as if you needed to get any cuter, you started sucking your thumb!

Also, you stopped sleeping this month. You were doing so well, waking up at most twice a night. Now we're luck if we get to stay in bed for a solid hour without getting up. It hasnt been fun.

But on your half-birthday, at the crack of dawn, I realize I would do it all a hundred times over for you. You're so awesome, little guy.

Just for comparison...to see how far we've come:
0 Months, 1 Month, 2 Months, 3 Months, 4 Months, 5 Months

We're Moving

2011-11-03T20:20:00.001-07:00

In more ways than one! Yes, we're packing and moving. But check out our other mover...

Another Party

2011-10-31T15:30:00.000-07:00

Mia is such a social butterfly. She has been to more parties the past couple months than I went to throughout my entire childhood.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-30T21:16:00.000-07:00

We've known for a long time that MishMash was going to be a fairy this Halloween. So at first I thought it would be cute to dress Em up as a dwarf. Fairies and dwarves seem to go together. Both live in fairy tale forests. But Papa objected, "You can't dress Emi up as an old man!"

What else goes with fairies? Dragons! So I started on Em's costume but ran out of time. I didn't get to make the orange dragon wings that were essential. What do you get when you have a dragon without wings?

With a fairy and a...dinosaur. Of course!

Mia refused to take pictures with Emi. She didn't even want him near her. So I bribed her. "If you hold your brother I'll give you a loli."

My three little pigs. Hard as I tried, I couldnt get a pic of all of them looking at me.
Mining for gold:

We had the best time. Happy Halloween!

My Baby has Graduated

2011-10-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

This kid:

He's graduated from the baby tub to the real tub!

What is going on here? Wasn't he just born yesterday?

Another Wild Ride

2011-10-28T11:31:00.000-07:00

It seems every so often things suddenly change. Life takes us on a ride.

It always happens when we're just comfortable enough to take a deep, relaxing breath. Change is good though. It keeps us on our toes.

The end of this year is bringing on a slew of new things.

First, I've been transferred to a new job. I'm not even leaving my current desk. But starting next week I will have a new group to work with and a new job to learn. I love my current position and am very sad to be training someone else to take it over. It's my friend who is taking over, though, and for that I am happy.

Second, we're moving! For a while now we've felt the walls of our home caving in on us. Even before Em was born things were tight. Then, adding a baby to the mix, we have barely any room to breath. So I'm neck-deep in boxes. We're moving to a house, not too far away. With a YARD to play in! A GARAGE to put all the toys in! The last time I had those things I was still living in my parents house. Around here land is expensive and we've been happy with a little balcony. But the M&Em's need a yard. And more room. Em will be getting his own space now. Papa is evicting him from our bedroom. Packing and moving will be tough. But one thing I love about moving is cleaning house. Getting rid of all the junk we don't use. Starting fresh.

Third, the wonderful nanny we found a few months ago is moving away. Em loves her and she is so great with him. So we've been on the nanny hunt, yet again. We found someone new and are trying her out. Stress!!

So, if all goes as planned, by the new year we'll be settling down in a more comfortable home, with a new nanny. Until the next ride hits us.

Saturday Morning Games

2011-10-22T14:46:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning starts with some playing in bed

And ends in peekaboo between the rails of Em's crib.

Video - Ball!

2011-10-21T13:09:00.000-07:00

Mia and Em's first time playing ball together:

Just Sitting Around

2011-10-16T21:09:00.000-07:00

The most exciting part of the weekend...
Em sitting by himself. With Papa close behind to catch him when he tips over.

Almost Crawling

2011-10-14T13:46:00.000-07:00

So close...

Video - Mia Gives Em a Bath

2011-10-12T08:54:00.000-07:00

Dreaming

2011-10-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, when I watch you go about your day,

playing,

singing,

dancing,

doing nothing in particular,

it all feels like some perfect dream.

Hello Tanaka Farms - Trip #1

2011-10-10T20:04:00.000-07:00

Its that time again when we get to visit Tanaka Farm's Pumpkin Patch. It's the most magical place. Where getting dirty feels refreshingly clean. Where eating veggies and fruit from the ground is the only way. Where the Fall air feels so tingly on your skin. I love this place.

And this year we'll be back for the petting zoo on trip 2.

And Emi

2011-10-07T22:47:00.000-07:00

What do you have to say for yourself?

"Mmmmm feet!"

Laceration: A cut through the skin

2011-10-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

I was putting Emi to sleep and Papa was in charge of Mia. I heard her start to scream. Mia screaming, especially around bedtime, is nothing new so I didnt think much of it. After a few minutes Papa came over holding Mia who was still sobbing. His shirt had blood stains where her face was buried. I took her into the light and saw an open gash on her forehead.

One little monkey jumping on the bed
One fell off and hit her head

After a brief discussion, Papa and I agreed that trip to the ER would be in order. She continued to sob that she didnt want to go. I gave her a giant rainbow lollipop that was supposed to have magic powers to make her brave. Because right now, there is nothing better in her world than a lolli. The dr at the ER also gave her a bear which helped ease the nerves.

Poor baby girl, it was bound to happen.

5 Months Old

2011-10-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

You started interacting with your sister this month, which has been awesome to see. I love watching the way you watch her. You smile at her when she looks your way. You get so happy when she acknowledges you. Its precious. I know you want to do what she does but you just dont know how yet. Soon, baby. You'll be fighting over toys soon enough.

You recently let us know how much you love baths as you yelled with excitement when we were getting ready for one. Since then, when I take off your onesie and lay you down on the bathmat and you know its bathtime. You shimmy around the floor laughing and yelling.

You had your first cold, which actually seemed to last all month long. Its so sad to see you so tiny and plugged up.

You rolled both ways, though you have a preference of rolling back to belly. Then whining till I come rescue you. Its hard to hold up that big bobble head for too long on your belly. You're not sure exactly how to roll back yet, but you've accidentally done it a few times.

We've tried a variety of foods - avocado, sweet potato, carrots, bananas, rice cereal, oatmeal and peas. You love eating bananas. And your feet.

I find your newly discovered personality to be delightful. But your papa jokes that you need anger management classes. I guess the way you get annoyed at baby toys and smash them doesn't seem quite right to him. But all I can see in your face is your overhwhelming sweetness.

Global Village Festival

2011-10-01T19:41:00.000-07:00

For one reason or another, we always miss the Global Village Festival. This year was almost no different. We all have colds and nobody has slept in days. But we made it there, runny noses and all.

No festival would be complete without bounce houses.

This is a hamster ball.

This is Mia in the hamster ball.

LobsterFest - featuring Mia's Camera

2011-09-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to Redondo Beach where we lived about 8 years ago. Redondo Beach was a wonderful place to live after moving out of Hollywood. We needed a change of pace and scenery. Being just outside of LA, with miles of empty beaches and little local bars was refreshing. We got engaged there. And in the Fall we'd go to the Lobster Festival.

Last weekend we took Mia there to the LobsterFest. I was excited to do some photography, but upon arriving discovred my camera battery was dead. Luckily, Mia took her new camera.

And so, I made the most of a children's hot pink camera:

Mia and Papa chasing seagulls:

Beach walk:

Mia's first soda:

Mia's first lobster:

Dog with blue mohawk...i love Redondo.

Come to think of it, there's something kind of cool about poor quality photos and bad cameras. I might need to get myself a polaroid camera.

Pump It Up

2011-09-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

Its the kind of place that, before having kids, I would have sworn you'd NEVER find me in. I would have said, no, not my kids. Ever. Never. The kind of place that serves cheetos on pizza and has a fake cake to blow out the candles.

But, oh my, its exactly the kind of place that Mia needed. I'm not sure I've ever seen her so happy. Not even at Disneyland. When we left the birthday party she said "I love that place so much!"

That's me on top of the slide.

Laughing Even Harder

2011-09-24T15:58:00.001-07:00

Nope, still hasn't gotten old:

Rugrats

2011-09-23T14:06:00.000-07:00

The rugrats this week:

That is all.

Siblings

2011-09-22T11:07:00.001-07:00

This week was the first time I saw it. They looked at each other and smiled, holding each other's gaze for a few seconds. A genuine, tender smile on both parts. It was exactly what I hoped for back when we talked about having a second child. For all the jealousy and sibling rivalry (to come), moments like this let me know it was absolutely the right choice.

He loves her so much, often I notice he can't take his eyes off her.

Moving On

2011-09-21T08:39:00.000-07:00

So, is it really Fall already???

Time to start working on our Halloween costumes. We have 2 to make this year!

Teething & Chewing

2011-09-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

He's teething and will try to chew anything within reach, in puppy fashion.

Like toys:

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Or Mama:

Breakfast

2011-09-18T13:43:00.000-07:00

It's getting just a bit more comfortable going out with the two of them. At least we're over the crying-till-we-can't-breath phase.

Saturday morning we walked to breakfast. The lighting at the restaurant was the best thing about it - soft, natural light. It just begged for photos. I swear, lighting makes the whole photo.

Winnie the Pooh

2011-09-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

We took Mia to see her first movie, Winnie the Pooh. She did very well and sat quietly watching most of the time. She was, however, equally fascinated by the movie theater chairs. I think she was swinging on the pivot seat for the entire movie.

On the way to the movies, playing with the digital camera I got her for her birthday:

Walking into the theater, swinging from mama and papa's arms:
Riding up the escalator:

Movie!

Treats

2011-09-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

There was a time when relaxing meant taking a couple of beers to the jacuzzi after work. Now, with two kids, I consider it relaxing when I get to take a peaceful walk with Em to the market

get a treat for myself,

and a treat for Em.

Cleaning up oatmeal, however, is not as nice.

3rd Birthday Party

2011-09-12T08:19:00.000-07:00

At 7:30am on Saturday, the day of Mia's party, we heard rumbling outside. I looked at Papa in total confusion. "What is THAT?" Papa returned the look of confusion. And about 30 seconds later we heard the sound of rain.

Thunderstorms are very rare here. But the chance of thunderstorms in early September is nearly unheard of. August and September are the driest, hottest months of the year. We didn't even have a back-up plan. I ran to check the hourly weather report online. 11:00am looked better. But would anyone come to the park after such rain?

Then the phone calls started from parents asking if we were still having the party. "Yep! It will clear up by 11:00." I said, faking the confidence of the weatherman. All the while thinking to myself, I can't believe this %$!*#@ @%$&!!

And then we implemented the original plan. We went to get balloons:

We set up at the park:

The rain had stopped but it was freezing. We heard it was hailing up in the valley. What in the world!? And the strappy, violet summer dress I bought for the party (with matching nailpolish!!) stayed at home. Boooo!

And then we waited to see if anyone would show up.

They all did! Hooray for friends!

The girls (and one token boy!) decorated cupcakes:

The Mickey/Minnie sprinkles were my favorite. But absolutely lost on the kiddoes.

We made jewelry:

Then it was time for the gorgeous cake that Nona made:

It was so cold and windy that we couldn't light the candles. But we pretended to blow them out. Mia went along with it.

Poor Emi, aboslutely froze outside. But was a very good baby for the party.

Then Mia's favorite guest showed up - Auntie Lizzie!
With Minnie Mouse toes! YAY!!
They checked out the giant 3 balloon.
Then the giant 3 attacked mama's brother. And Mia didn't care because she was too busy playing with her favorite guest.
We went home to open gifts and found a puppet theater.

And the most beautiful pettiskirt I've ever seen.
While Mia played, I sat down to relax with my little Emi and watched my happy princess.

Happy 3rd Birthday to Mia!

2011-09-09T08:23:00.000-07:00

MishMash,

Though you'll always be my baby, you're no longer a baby by any means. Look at you - a brilliant, fun-loving, beautiful girl with gold, curly pigtails. Your beauty is radiating. It's a tangible, bold, in-your-face beauty that you have. Nothing coy or demure about it. And now, armed with your 3-year-old beauty and smarts, you have a new agenda. Hello nailpolish, tutus and jewelry! Welcome to girlhood.

You’re full of life, finding treasures in the everyday. A simple trip to the park turns into a voyage. A game with your dolls unfolds into an exciting tale of mischief. You leap from our couches, toss yourself on the ground, climb the ottoman and shriek as you fly into the air. You try to climb the wall while you look at me and exclaim, "I'm bored, Mama!"

You’re a climber, a hider, a runner. You're an adventure seeker that never runs out of steam. After a full day of summer camp, going to the pool and running around with your friends, you still come home full of energy. Naps are a thing of the past and a full night's sleep was an event we only briefly enjoyed. Your battery, Mishmash, is always charged.

Your creativity has sparked this year as you make up games and songs and ways of doing things that only your untrained little mind can do. You weave tales of friendships and hardships, races and lessons. Imagination can be a tough thing though. It comes with fears of the dark and a belief in monsters that live in our closets. Imagination can make you cry when there's no reason to cry at all.

You've made good friends this year. You come home from preschool and show me a dance that Lucy taught you. I'm actually quite impressed as I watch you perform Britney-Spears-style moves. I see photos of you at school sitting under a tree with your friend reading books. You look so grown up sometimes.

Along with your physical luster, you also have a huge emotional side. You pick up even the slightest of changes in my expression. If I'm worried or concerned about anything at all you observe me for a few seconds before asking "What, Mama?" You want an explanation for my expressions. You smile when I smile and get sad when anyone around you is upset. You desire our approval and consent. When you do something wrong you always await my response. "Are you happy?" you ask me after banging on the tambourine and waking up your baby brother.

This was the year you became a big sister to Emerson. The year you learned there was no alternative but to share mama's and papa's attention. It was the year you learned how to open your heart to an innocent, tiny brother. You're gentle and loving with him (until you bang on that tambourine). If he starts crying, you can't stand it and run away to another room. You're also very protective. I'm proud of what you've learned. I'm proud of you. I'm so happy you gave up the bottles and baby stuff for the big girl stuff.

I'm also proud of myself for sticking to what I believed was right for you. For pushing and teaching you when I knew you needed to be pushed and taught. For letting things slide when I thought you needed to discover on your own. It's a tough balancing act, trying to discipline while also letting you discover good and bad. Achieving that balance and finding the right amount of discipline is what makes good parents. Sometimes you have to reject other people's opinions. You have to toss aside the parenting books. You have to trust your parental gut. I'm still learning. There's nothing I take more seriously than making sure you are well taken care of. I thrive on seeing you happy, healthy, laughing and discovering the world. We get there together, you & I.

You teach me something every day. You're my inspiration and motivation. You help me be a master of patience. Energy seeps out of you and into me. You challenge me, push me to do more, go an extra step and laugh a little longer like a child. When you make snoring sounds that startle Em, I can't help but laugh, feeling like a 3 year old myself. You fill our days with life and excitement. You are the chili pepper of our family, the spice in our lives.

Happy 3rd Birthday, Big Sister!

4 Months Old Em

2011-09-06T08:39:00.000-07:00

There's a look you save just for me. Its a look of recognition that makes your eyes sparkle like glitter. You're 4 months old. You know me well now.

4 months is my favorite age - still an itty bitty, yet more cognizant of life. You play games and flirt. You grab your feet. You have preferences and moods. Its the age where your personality begins to display itself. The age when you can start to taste real food and show us what you love and hate. Yet you still curl up, tiny, into my chest like you did the very first time. It's the perfect age where newborn sweetness meets baby cuteness.

Every night around 8pm we go to your room (our room). I give you a warm bottle and burp you. You are tired but you still want to talk. We look at each other. You start to coo softly and smile, locking your eyes on mine, studying me. You know me.

The window is open. It has been a hot summer. The sun has set and the sky is illuminated in leftover shades of purple, blue and pink. The room is warm but the ocean breeze is cool. You love this weather. You lay on me in just your onesie, exposed thighs looking like delicious donuts.

I wonder if I should eat you up whole, or piece by tiny piece, to savor the sweetness.

I can't decide. I settle on a long kiss on your cool cheek and inhale the baby scent.

Your blinks get longer. You're ready to sleep. I cradle you closer and rock you. Sometimes standing, looking out the window. Sometimes sitting, looking at you. You look so content being held and rocked like this - the way every baby should be. For some reason when we're like this I always think of babies who won't be held and rocked. Babies in faraway lands who live in orphanages without parents. Babies nearby whose mothers have betrayed them. I'm not sure why these things always come to mind. Maybe it's your innocence. But it makes me sad to think of what those babies are missing out on.
By the time my thoughts have worked themselves out, the tension leaves your body and you relax. I relax too, knowing you're asleep. Your normally curled toes now hang loosely. Your arms finally stop flailing around and your breath becomes rhythmic. I notice your eyes moving under your lids and wonder what you're dreaming of. You smile in your sleep. It must be a good dream.

I don't have to put you down just yet. We have a few more minutes which I'll spend holding and watching you. I cherish this hour, just you and me. Papa and Mia are still busy telling bedtime stories. My Blackberry is buried deep in my laptop bag. The dishes and laundry will wait. So for a few more minutes, there's nothing else but you, my 4 month old pup.

Video - First Bites

2011-09-06T08:37:00.001-07:00

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

An Outdoor's Man

2011-09-04T13:56:00.001-07:00

We took Em out on his first hike. He didn't make a peep the whole time and seemed to love being outdoors.

Mia was our troll hunter, keeping us safe. Especially when we crossed bridges. "STOP!" she'd yell. "There's a troll!" And then she got him with her weapons.

Em didn't care much about trolls. He found the hike very relaxing.

And I was watching out more for scary looking plants and beehives.

Yum!

2011-09-03T16:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Em got his first vaccine. I took Mia along so she could get her 3 year old check-up and vaccine too. The build up was stressful, but the actual vaccines were anti-climactic. That's a good thing. But I was so anxious I forgot to ask Dr. Lin if Em was ready for solids.

So I made the decision myself.

Stats:
Em's Weight: 17lbs
Em's Height: 26"

Mia's Weight: 36lbs
Mia's Height: 40" (very tall girl)

Fitting Room

2011-08-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

I wasn't sure how it would work, going shopping for a dress (for me) with Mia. Then I figured it out. Along with the clothes I wanted to try on, I also let her bring some clothes for herself. There she was, trying on stuff that was about 4 sizes too big (there was no toddler section). It was adorable sharing a fitting room with her, my girly girl.

Too bad I didn't have my camera, just my cell phone.

Video Highlights

2011-08-28T19:41:00.000-07:00

Some highlights from the weekend...

Mish goes to the beach with the Other Mia:

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

At the mall with M&Ems:

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Saturday Morning Coffee

2011-08-27T21:23:00.000-07:00

What a week. I'm too exhausted to even type. I needed to relax this weekend.

Before Em was born we'd always go out for coffee on Saturday mornings. It was a ritual I looked forward to all week long. Time to just chill out together. We haven't done that since Em was born because "chillin out" at a coffee shop with a newborn and a toddler is not exactly relaxing.

Until this weekend. I wanted to try a new bakery that I've been hearing about.

Apparently so did the rest of the city. The line was enormous, even at 8am. Mia was less than thrilled.

Em looked around, taking it all in. I can't wait to give this little man some real food. Poor thing, the way he watches us eat...

Then we went home where Em hung out in his pink bumboo chair. That's what happens when you're a little man with a big sister. That's ok, he can pull off pink.

Besides, he later watched a soccer game to reclaim his masculinity.

(Yes, Em is wearing 3 different onesies in the span of about 4 hours. That's how much drooling he's doing).

Another Weekend

2011-08-21T08:51:00.000-07:00

We're back in the groove of work and school. Fall is just around the corner. Maternity Leave seems like it was a dream now, as we've settled into routine. Now the weekends are our mini vacations. A time to hang out and do the things we never have time for during the week.

This weekend I worked on Mia's birthday party decorations. She request a Minnie Mouse party this year.

The invitations are almost ready to mail out.

The neighborhood summer carnival was back on Saturday night.

Just like last year, Mia was scared of the pony ride. When I saw this face, I knew we were seconds away from tears.

And Em was his usual sweet, beautiful self. This kid is like cream and sugar. I could eat him up with a spoon...

Funny

2011-08-17T20:35:00.000-07:00

Remember THIS?

Now we have this:

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

There is nothing in the whole world that feel better than watching your babies laugh. And it never, ever gets old.

Em Hits the Park Too

2011-08-14T15:47:00.001-07:00

Today was the first time Em actually started exploring his world. Instead of staying in the carseat, he joined Mia in exploring the park. He got to feel sun on his face and grass on his feet while big sis showed him what it means to play hard.

Fish Sticks by Candlelight

2011-08-13T15:21:00.001-07:00

Its funny how asking my grandparents how things were back in the day, almost always gives the generic response of "times were tough back then." I never know what exactly they mean.

In the future, when my kids and grandkids ask me the question, i will probably give the same answer.

Its been a stressful and somber week.

It started with a cryptic bad-news letter from our health insurance telling us we owe thousands for Emi's birth. No explanations. If we'd like to know why, we can call.

Then, after interviewing nannies and doing background checks (which turned up clean), a Google search revealed some very unfortunate information about the woman I just hired. And will soon fire.

As the week unraveled, every time I turned on the tv I was reminded of the dreadful dowgrading of US credit. The personal implications are still unknown, but we can safely assume they will be negative. I keep watching the news and see London on fire. And then, 22 Navy Seals are dead.

This week I felt like the lights were permanently turned off.

Its after 9pm when the M&Ems are finally in bed and we can have some quick dinner. We eat fish sticks in silence. Papa motions towards the salad and I shake my head. I've had enough.

Friday night Emi doesn't sleep well. I put him in his rocking chair, hoping he'll be more comfortable there. He isn't. But by 6am he learns how to pull on the kitty and play a song.

He doesn't stop till about 7.

And I don't care because he's so damn gorgeous.

Times are tough. Yet I have a feeling that times were even tougher for my elders. After all, they didn't have Emi in their life.

Video - Another Day, Another Bath

2011-08-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

Em takes a bath then plays in bed. Sorry, we're boring around here!

Untitled from samm I on Vimeo.

The Other Mia's Party

2011-08-07T20:35:00.000-07:00

There's another Mia in Mia's preschool. This weekend the Other Mia (or the Small Mia, as some like to call her (I suppose that makes my Mia the Big Mia?)) set the bar very high when it comes to birthday parties. She had a fabulous princess tea party. Princess Belle made an appearance and brought along face-painting, balloons and a box full of princess costumes. The girls had so much fun. It was gorgeous.

Mia's bff, Lucy, was there too. Mia and Lucy are quite the pair. If you ever run into these two together, watch out.

That's all I'll say: Just WATCH.OUT.

3 Months Old Em

2011-08-06T21:32:00.000-07:00

When we first found out I was pregnant we, naturally, went through the fear stage. I was afraid of having another difficult pregnancy. I was worried we wouldn't be able to care for 2. There were so many logistics to worry about when you are bringing another person into your family. We reminded ourselves that we had to go into survival mode until "the baby" was 3 months old. From there, things start to get better and easier. It seemed so far away. A whole year away.

Here we are. 3 months old.

If a heart could explode from love I would be in serious danger.

The last couple weeks have been fun and exciting. Em is reaching and grabbing and kicking. He holds his paci and puts his hand on his bottles. When I'm close to him, he tries to touch my face. Sometimes I get smacked by those wobbly, unstable arms with poor aim.

Vocally, he's making new sounds and new pitches. The sounds that come out of him are so darn cute! His smiles have turned into little giggles and he even laughs when I blow on his belly. In the mornings when he starts to stir I walk over to the crib and peak in. He sees me and gives me a smile when we meet eyes, then sometimes turns his head and falls back asleep. What wonderful mornings I have!

His favorite spot is laying on the boppy, on top of a pillow, on the couch. Papa props him up there and turns on the t.v. And he watches morning cartoons as he snacks on his fingers.

His skin has completely cleared up and his hair continues to fall. In place of the dark feathers, he's growing light brown and reddish hair.

The worst of the colic seems to have passed and he's generally happy now until something scares him. He scares very easily. Even a sneeze in the next room over could set him off in a panic.

Em has fallen asleep on his own a few times, which is something very new to us (Mia still never falls asleep on her own). His calm, happy personality is starting to come through. He is so sweet. I am a lucky, lucky mama.

When I bring my face close to his cheek he opens his mouth wide in a giant grin. "Rooting reflex," says our pediatrician. I'd rather think its a display of pure joy.

Mess

2011-08-05T13:14:00.000-07:00

There's a reason why we still sometimes strap her into the highchair:

Good Morning

2011-08-04T09:24:00.000-07:00

Waking up...

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

First Day Back

2011-08-01T14:45:00.001-07:00

My alarm was set to 6am but I was up before it went off. Em had only woken up once during the night. By 6:30am he was hungry again and I was done getting ready. Timing was good. By 7:00 Mia was awake too and in good spirits. I got her ready for preschool and was out the door by 7:30. Oops, running a little late. But my luck had not run out yet because I was met with no traffic on the way to work. I was amazed at how smoothly my morning was going. That's when things got ugly.

I walked into my office to find a pleasant stranger had moved into my space. "Sorry, I was expecting you any day now to walk in and look surprised," he said. My manager was on vacation. I called him to find out that he had attempted to move me to a better office. Unfortunately, things didnt quite pan out. Long story short, my entire office was sitting in a pile somewhere. I called a co-worker in confusion to find out what to do.

"Just wait," she said, "the office issue is nothing compared to what you're going to have to deal with."

Turns out there were some issues about who was covering for me after I left. Things were a wreck, after I had left a neat and tidy pile of instructions for my back-up. I contemplated going home at that point. But no, I'm here to work.

I don't get political on my blog, but today I had one thought about feminist ideas: Is there anything that could be more empowering for a woman, is there any job more important for a woman, than raising her children?

I think not.

Video - Being Silly

2011-07-29T22:15:00.000-07:00

I put on some music so we could dance. But we ended up getting the sillies. I also took the opportunity to teach Mia how to use the flip video.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Video - Em Reaches & Grabs

2011-07-29T18:26:00.000-07:00

At almost 3 months old Em just started grabbing for toys.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

Maternity Leave Wrap-Up

2011-07-29T14:07:00.001-07:00

I never would have thought that my maternity leave would be more like a summer vacation than a recovery period. This time around everything was so much easier. Em has been a real gem. He's a perfect baby. I say he's the baby that can't cry because he really doesnt cry much at all. But when he does cry it doesnt last long because he runs out of breath, turns bright red and has to stop. He just doesnt seem to know how to cry!

I've felt much better physically and mentally than I did the first time. Probably because we're all sleeping better and know what to expect. We've spent a lot of time outdoors, enjoying the summer. I've got tan lines on my feet because flip flops have been the only shoes I've worn for the last 3 months.

There have been some challenges though. At first Mia was an explosive ball of toddler badness. I admit that discipline is not one of my strengths and perhaps it caught up with me. The extent of Mia's discipline to date has been, "Go to the corner and don't come out until you're ready to be good." This is usually followed by "I'm ready" 3 seconds later. I worried about coping with her at home while also caring for a newborn. But when the time came to do something, it became much less scary than the anticipation. And over the next couple weeks her behavior improved significantly. Now she almost never acts out terribly. Almost.

The lowest point of the past 3 months happened in a department store with my M&Em's when Em started flipping out. He cried so hard I wasn't sure of he was breathing. In fact, I'm pretty sure a purple face is a sign of not breathing (like I said, this baby can't cry). I grabbed the stroller and started running out. Unfortunately, my speed caused Mia to fall off the stroller from her bench. Within 2 minutes I had both of them crying in hysterics. A woman walked by, picked up my stuff from the floor (which I hadn't even noticed had fallen) and said "Don't worry. It gets easier. I had 3." I don't even think I thanked her for picking up my stuff as I hobbled away. Ugh. I still haven't been out alone with both of them since that trauma, over 2 months ago.

The highest point was a morning, after papa left for work, when I was feeding Em. He fell asleep in my arms. Mia climbed on the couch and snuggled with us. I had both of my babes on me. Just the 3 of us. It was blissful. I looked at them and could not believe I made these two, I'm raising them, I'm providing for them. I made them!! They are a reflection of me, an outcome of me. And they are mine!

We all survived and coped and learned and gained from the experiences. Mia quickly changed her tune and within a couple weeks she was a terrific big sister.

R and my mom were a huge help with everything. They cleaned and cooked and took care of everything else as I learned to comform and care for 2 tinies.

The key to everything was simply patience.

I believe each person's children were meant especially for that person. Each child serves a purpose in his parents' lives. Fills a void, in a sense.

Mia - she's my motivation. She pushes me to find solutions, be creative and just do as much as possible every minute of the day. She challenges me to fill up my days with life and imagination.

Em is my soft spot. When I'm tired or annoyed I just have to look at him for instantaneous relief. There's something about his glimmering eyes. He gives me one smile and the world is perfect.

We've come so far since May 6th. At the end of maternity leave I feel like I ran a marathon. I've accomplished something huge and challenging after months of getting ready for it. I did it successfully and I reached the finish line. It feels great.

When I consider that this was probably my only opportunity ever to spend weeks upon weeks with my kids, without worrying about work, I feel great. I feel lucky. It went very well with a minimal amount of breakdowns. While I absolutely dread leaving them on Monday morning for work, I do look forward to finding our new rhythm and settling into our new norm.

Driving by the beach on a beautiful, sunny day I saw some kids playing and eating ice cream with their dad. It was a glimpse of the future, I hope. And it looked really sweet.

Video - Mia Uses the Computer

2011-07-26T10:43:00.000-07:00

She just learned to use the mouse.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

LOL!

2011-07-25T23:50:00.001-07:00

Untitled from samm I on Vimeo.

No Words

2011-07-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

Untitled from samm I on Vimeo.

Jenevieve Visits

2011-07-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

It was Em's lucky day. His best girl, Jenevieve, came over again. Em was very impressed to see her sitting up, sucking her thumb, grabbing her feet and kicking up a storm. She set a very good example!

Videos - Em and a Birthday Discussion

2011-07-22T14:07:00.000-07:00

Videos of Em cooing and Mia planning her 3rd bday party.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

The Final Countdown

2011-07-19T15:28:00.000-07:00

Its almost that time. This has been the best time off I will ever have. A summer off with my favorite people. I doubt I will ever get that again. Until I retire.

It's been easy to not think about what is around the corner. I know work is waiting. And my boss has reminded me of how missed I am (in other words, how much work is waiting for me). Some of it is sitting at home from my last few days of working in May. Just lurking around, untouched since the day I went to the hospital.

Truth is, I like my job. I work with great people, have good managers and work for a wonderful company. I enjoy what I do. I am thankful for all that.

Mia will do well going back to preschool. She needs the socialization and activity. She'll be in the 3 year old classroom and it will do her good.

BUT...

in just over a week, leaving this at home

is going to really, really suck.

Summer Evening Walk

2011-07-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

Last summer took strolls with Mia in her wagon down to the ice cream shop. It was her after-dinner treat. Since then, our ice cream shop has closed. We lost our ice cream shop but gained an Em this summer.

I loved taking a walk wearing Em, as close as he can be to me since his belly exit. And Mia, in her wagon, wearing her PJs and eating watermelon, with papa occasionally making sure she doesn't get too sticky. It was perfect - its what summer evenings were meant to be.

The Fair & the Giant Red Dog

2011-07-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

We went to the fair. It was my first time ever. Hard to believe, considering it comes around every summer since I can remember. We ate, played games and rode the carousel.

And somehow we ended up with this.

This giant red dog.

He even had lunch with us.

He sat in my seat in the car because he wouldnt fit anywhere else. I seriously considered leaving him in the parking lot. But I wedged myself between two carseats in the back because Mia loved him and wanted to take him home.

Copa America

2011-07-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

I was tasked with keeping everyone occupied while Papa watched Argentina play a Copa America game.

This is what we did:

And then Em joined papa for penalty kicks. The game didnt end well, unfortunately.

Pikachu Videos

2011-07-14T09:32:00.000-07:00

He's growing and cooing and being as sweet as could be. This week we used Mia's old baby gym for him.

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

And, by the way, this is a real Pikachu:

Similar, no?

More Beach

2011-07-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

2 Months Old

2011-07-06T07:58:00.000-07:00

You've grown so much the past month, weighing nearly 14 lbs and reaching 24" in height (75th percentile). In my arms you feel sturdier now, more meaty. A solid little baby with growing marshmellow thighs.

The 0-3 month clothes are now small. Yet you have some breathing room in the 3-6 month outfits. I love putting new outfits on you, proving that boys are just as much fun to dress as girls - at least at this age. And you are 100% boy. You look like such a dude. There's no way anyone could mistaken you for a girl. As papa said right after you were born, "He looks like a little boxer."

You're holding your head up better, waving your arms with more intent, trying to roll over from belly to back and cooing louder. Every time we lock eyes you purse your lips, smile and coo. I coo back and we start a back-and-forth exchange. Sometimes you even give us a tiny laugh.

You've been sleeping very well with about an 8 hour run between 8pm-4am. You're still clawing at your face with those tiny sharp nails. As often as i cut them, they feel like little needles, leaving red scratches across your face. You just discovered that hands are rather yummy and treat yourself to a snack often. Sometimes you get the hiccups. And you're always sneezing, despite the fact that it has been a very warm summer so far.

You know us now and let us know every day that you appreciate our company. You especially love your big sister and stare at her whenever she's around. You've also started adoring your papa and give him the biggest, toothless, open-mouthed smiles I've ever seen.

At only 2 months old, there's a look in your eyes that is so sweet and kind. I know exactly what a good-hearted person you will become, much like your Papa.

Emmy, you are a dream come true.

July 4th Weekend

2011-07-04T21:50:00.000-07:00

On the night of July 4th I stood in my bedroom rocking Em to sleep while listening to distant fireworks. The french doors were open so we could feel the cool breeze after a hot weekend in the sun. The sliver of a moon and the streaks of light that were still painting the sky in purple and orange were soothing - a typical california summer sunset. With his head on my shoulder, Em breathed his sleepy, sweet, milky breath right on my face. Papa was with Mia, putting her to sleep as well.

It was a great weekend. Mia's favorite auntie Julia came to visit. We spent the entire weekend outdoors in bathing suits. Rocking Em completed the picture. This was it. There was nothing left to want.

Come back to CA auntie J. New York was fun but its time to come home. IT'S TIME!

Those Moments

2011-07-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

They are rare, those moments of peace and love between brother and sister. But when they come, wow, they are sweet.

Summer Classes

2011-07-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

I signed Mia up for summer classes in our community center to give us a place to go cool off a couple times a week. One is a dance & gymnastics class and the other is a "making messes" crafts class. Although I'd say the classes may as well be called 2 Year Olds' Anarchy.

Cake

2011-06-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

I make the batter and she eats it.

A Baby Name

2011-06-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

Mia pulled out the baby names book and started looking for a name for Emerson. She made up some pretty interesting names...too bad its too late!

Untitled from Ivri Ciuni on Vimeo.

SeaWorld

2011-06-27T11:11:00.000-07:00

We treated Mia to a trip to SeaWorld with Mama and Papa.

She had the best time on the rides.

She loved the sea lions. Especially feeding them sardines. Those critters were yelling for the sardines.

And the birds were tough competition, also trying to catch the food.

We saw a couple shows. I was amazed at how much of the humor mishmash picked up on.

Then, of course, there was the bucket of cotton candy. A big hit with mishamash. Naturally.

She had so much fun getting all the attention. On the way home she asked, "Mama, how can we put Emerson back in your belly?"

"There's no going back," Papa said.

"Yes, there is going back." She insisted.

Am I glad she's wrong! I missed my pikachu and couldn't wait to see him when we got home.

Kites

2011-06-25T13:46:00.001-07:00

We went to a kite flying party at the park. We didn't have our own kite, but it was still fun to check out the others.