Days of Rays

Rowan and Miles

2011-05-29T16:47:00.000-07:00

Miles is my High School friend Kaci's son. We have an on-going joke about them getting married. Wouldn't this be cute on their wedding invitation?? They love each other. It's adorable!

Happy Birthday, Pop Pop!

2011-04-08T20:58:00.001-07:00

We baked these tonight to celebrate...

Parmesan Garlic Pull-Apart Biscuits

2011-02-19T17:45:00.000-08:00

Super Easy! Delicious!

Someone make these for us. :)

Ingredients:

3 tbs. butter, melted
1/4 tsp. celery seed
2 cloves garlic, minced
12 oz. tube refrigerated biscuits
2 tbs. grated Parmesan cheese

Click photo or text for full recipe.

Petite Lasagnas

2011-02-19T17:38:00.000-08:00

Click for recipe. Courtesy of www.canyoustayfordinner.com

Moisturize!

2011-01-26T15:35:00.000-08:00

I've been using Emergin C "Earth" moisturizer from Alexandra Wagner Skincare. (THANKS FOR THE FACIAL! IT WAS AMAZING!) So far, this is a fabulous product. I think I'm converted from UnBlemish.

3rd Street Promenade

2011-01-24T08:49:00.000-08:00

Showing Amanda and Jon the Promenade. Farmer's market on Saturday! Rowan's loving the piggybacks.... Photos courtesy of Jon and Amanda Smith

Photos: Stairwell; New penguin hat; Jenn, Row & Amanda in front of the farmer's market; Ro being cute at our house; Rowan flying like an airplane; gorgeous cabbage flowers; Jon trying on a mohawk beanie; the saxophonist who performed especially for Rowan (sesame street theme song); Rowan using her new Bubble Gun on Amanda!

Gjelina Restaurant with the Smiths

2011-01-24T08:46:00.000-08:00

Last two photos courtesy of Jon Smith.

Why Rowan is Obsessed with Bugs

2011-01-24T08:38:00.000-08:00

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE 2 MINUTE VIDEO THAT SHE LOVES.

Morning Musings from the Monitor

2011-01-24T08:28:00.000-08:00

Whomever goes in to get Rowan up in the morning asks the sleeping parent whether or not he/she wants to keep the monitor on to hear Rowan's conversation. I said yes this morning. Here's a snippet:

Rowan: Just a little buh.

Brian: A little peepee? (in her diaper)

Rowan: No, just a little buh (I know she's saying Bug because that's her latest obsession.)

Brian: A little butt?

Rowan: No, a... a little butt? Giggle. A little butt (said funny). Giggle. Giggle. Butt. Giggle. A LITTLE butt.

A minute later....

Rowan: I want to get my teddy bear.

Brian: It's downstairs.

Rowan: (yells) I'm COMING TEDDY BEAR!

It's non-stop chitter-chatter these days. So cute.

Afternoon at the Beach

2010-08-08T20:44:00.000-07:00

After a long nap, Rowan got dressed and we headed out to Venice/SM beach. We ran across some freestyle bicyclists (awesome!) and Rowan tried to show them up with her snazzy gymnastic moves. We then headed to Lula's Mexican Restaurant and headed back on Brian's bike.

Sunday is for Brunch and Boats

2010-08-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

Brian, Rowan and I had a lovely brunch (mimosas included!) at Cafe Del Rey. We had a beautiful view of sailboats, motorboats and dinghies from our table overlooking Marina del Rey. Rowan ate like no tomorrow (carrot & blueberry muffins, eggs, sugar-coated brioche, steak, fruit, yogurt and then some). Afterwards, we drove down through the Marina and walked around. Rowan loved the boats and the water and swinging from the rails.

Happy Birthday Daddy! WHOOoooooo!

2010-02-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

Brian's 33rd birthday was today. Rowan ate a giant piece of cake and went running around screaming with her hands up. We think she was mimicking us when we say "Whoo hooooo!" about something. She turned it into more of a scream! Enjoy....

Halloween Daytime Outfit

2009-11-13T21:41:00.001-08:00

Because she is a true fashionista, Rowan had two Halloween outfits this year. Halloween costume #1 was a hula girl. (Since we aren't going to Hawaii this year, we didn't want the outfit mom got her to go to waste.)

During her travels down the block, she made friends with a Mariachi member (see poncho and uke) who checked out her gorgeous legs.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-13T21:11:00.001-08:00

Finally, the photos!

Rowan was a St. Bernard complete with neck barrel. She wasn't quite walking yet so she crawled around. Appropriate for the costume! Rowan also learned quickly to hold her pumpkin basket and put it out for candy when we went to a new house. Luckily, she had no idea what the candy was about but loved compiling it her pumpkin. Mama & Dada got their first taste of what Halloween as parents is really about... adorable kids and LOTS of good candy that your daughter will never see. :)

After great trick or treating down the colony, we pulled out some chairs and watched all the dressed up kids and parents go by. We dined on Kosher dogs and a bottle of wine with GiGi (Great Grandma) and Gama (Grandma Marilynn). Rowan enjoyed a fine vintage of milk 2009. Thanks Grandma & Gigi for coming to Rowan's first Trick or Treat!

Halloween

2009-10-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

What do Patricia Arquette, Balthazar Getty, Angelina, Brad & kids, Denise Richards, and Kelsey Grammer all have in common? They all trick-or-treated on our street tonight. Malibu is just a little different than Berkeley.
P.S. Brian could not stop starring at the Pitts... though I couldn't tell if he was enamored with the gorgeous Angelina or the ridiculously cool, Miller-lite-drinking (in a bottle, of course) Brad.

Murray vs Louis - Winner: Louis

2009-10-19T20:01:00.000-07:00

It seems Murray has finally found someone averse to his charms. Louis is Rowan's favorite animal and she is his. She saw Louis curled up on the pillows today. So she grabbed some towels, wrapped him up, laid down next to him (pictured above) and said, "Aaaaah." I guess that's what Brian and I say when we get her cozy and comfy in her blanket! She then decided to play dress up and tried to get him to wear her newsboy cap.

Daddy's Girl

2009-10-19T19:57:00.001-07:00

Brian bought a kid seat for his Schwinn beach-cruiser. He even bought Rowan a pink helmet. So cute! They go off together every day to see the ducks and birds in the Cross Creek estruary. Rowan QUACKS and Brian honks his horn. Noise makers, the both of 'em!

Daddu

2009-10-19T19:57:00.000-07:00

Tunnel Vision

2009-10-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

Rowan LOVES the park in Cross Creek. She's such a big girl now. She crawls all around the playground and even goes down the slide by herself! (Of course, Daddy makes sure she doesn't get hurt.) And yes, that's a gold Adidas track suit she's wearing. Our daughter is uber-hip.

Goodbye, Berkeley... Hello L.A.!

2009-10-13T19:04:00.001-07:00

Rowan is now 15 months old and she walked for the first time today! Of course, she then decided she'd rather crawl but we got in two great walks before that. We're living at Mom's house in Malibu until we find a place to live permanently in Los Angeles. It's been great being so close to almost everyone! Since I haven't updated this blog in eons, here is a little video of Rowan pushing her little car and saying hello to Mama. She's getting so big!

The Beginning of her Water Obsession....

2009-08-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe this isn't the actual beginning, but the fountain in Mom's Las Vegas pool is definitely where Rowan's obsession increased. Grandma Marilynn, Daddy & I took Rowan for a swim last Mother's day (May 2009). She is a sweet little thing in the water!

From Watermelon to Gone in 3 Minutes

2009-08-11T21:36:00.000-07:00

Really. It's three minutes of Rowan eating a watermelon. But you can enjoy those curls of hers! Aren't they precious?

Brian's Fountain

2009-08-09T22:19:00.000-07:00

Brian made a fountain out of a large planter and bamboo pump. Very cool. Better yet, it's Rowan's favorite thing! She has lots of new words lately including "gaGAga" (banana), dada, doggie and sah-pa-poes (zapatos- shoes in spanish). But her absolute favorite word is AGUA. She says it, claps her hands forcefully and demands we take her out to play in the fountain. Sweetie pie! Check out the flowing hair too. Almost long enough for a rubberband!

Sorry It's Been So Long!

2009-08-05T22:06:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a month (and a few...) but here is some video love from Rowan.

Rowan Turns One!

2009-06-25T16:11:00.000-07:00

The Dixieland band supplied the tunes...

Babies abounded...

"Miss Rowan's Red Velvet Cupcakes" were served.

Great Grandma Joyce and Uncle Al above.

Peonies, daisies and butterfly nets...

The Buffet table!

Great Grandma Joyce and the birthday girl!

Cousin Nick wears his hat and cool shades.

The drinks flowed...

Babies from our Mommy Group.

The party was at Tilden Regional Park.

Jodi, Grandma Marfry, Daddy & the birthday girl!

Banjo player.

Mommy and Rowan.

Pregnant Mandy & Aaron!

Uncle Mike in the seersucker, Gramps, cousins Morgan and Miranda.

The Southern California girls! Martha's best friends from high school.

Neighbors we love! Danielle (middle) and Sky, Dana (7 months preggers) and her mom.

More neighbors Sally & Bert.

The gift table adorned with photos of the baby girl.

Rowan's first cupcake!

Yummy!

The Hidalgo family joined us!

4 generations

Uncle Al

Deep conversation

Parents and babies!

The Grandmas

Unicyle-ing cousin

Croquet was set up and played.

Not one cupcake remained when the day ended!

"Oh Uncle Mike, you're so funny."

It was the best time ever. Love that baby of ours!

Eerily Similar

2009-06-01T23:47:00.000-07:00

Rowan, 11 months. Baby Monitor

Rowan, 7 months in utero. 4-D sonogram.

She's On to Us

2009-06-01T23:40:00.000-07:00

Rowan is figuring out that the camera is not just a cool green light.

She waves at us, mockingly. "I've got your number, Mom & Dad."

"Okay fine. I guess I'm stuck here til morning." She gives up - throws her head into the mattress, butt up in the air...and falls asleep.

Sunday in the City

2009-05-29T21:36:00.000-07:00

Alli & Dave had us over for brunch and it was delicious! Here she is with Roro.

Ryan came too.

She was highly intrigued and intimidated by their dog Murray. (Good name.)

The little Family.

Rowan finally got a chance to wear her patten leather shoes!

Take a Hike, Dad!

2009-05-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

Brian bought a fancy hiking backpack to take Rowan around and they both LOVE it! He takes her all over the neighborhood where she looks at flowers, reaches for trees and yells at passerby's so they'll pay attention to her. These photos are from Brian's cell phone.

She loves to hang out of the backpack's right side. We call it Rowan's Pope Mobile...

Underage Drinking?

2009-05-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

Rowan accompanied Daddy & I to Triple Rock Brewery the other day. It was about 5pm and the noise level was off the charts thanks to a Laker game (go purple and gold!). At first, we worried it would be too loud but then Rowan screeched an ear-deafening holler and, like an epiphany sent from above, we realized no one could hear her. It was brilliant. The young waiter kindly brought us a water with no ice, as requested for her highness, but he brought it in a beer mug. Feeling slightly guilty, we let her drink from it... and then documented it for all to see. Another great moment was when the Lakers scored and the crowd applauded. Rowan looked up mouth open wide, and with great enthusiasm started clapping too. Each time the crowd roared, Rowan accompanied them with a hand slapping clap. She had a great time but Mommy & Daddy could only tolerate 30 minutes of drunk dudes and we left. From now on, only bars and pubs for this little girl.

Some Las Vegas Moments

2009-05-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

Sitting with Asher, her besheret, at mother's day brunch.

Golfing on Grandma Marilynns's putting green!

Showing off her yams.

These are just a few moments from Mother's Day weekend. The photos are from our phone so we're waiting for the real camera film. Mom! Ha.

Spying on Rowan

2009-05-22T22:36:00.000-07:00

We have had the BebeSounds video monitor since Rowan was born and it is the best thing since sliced bread. We still use it every night to keep an 'eye' on her and love to see & hear all the things she does when she thinks we're not looking. Each night she stands up in her crib clutching the railing with her little paws. Then she'll rattle the side. Stop. Move to the next area that she wants to hold on to. Then when she's bored with that she'll sit and talk to herself, clap, scream, babble and roll over to the other side where the whole process begins again. Eventually, she settles face down on her belly and sticks her butt up in the air as she falls gracefully asleep.

Stop Pushing Me Around

2009-05-20T23:05:00.000-07:00

Rowan had 1 year-old Elise over today but it turned out to be mighty close to our girl's nap time. She was a tad high strung. Elise, however, was in a wonderful mood and has just mastered walking. Elise was trying to show us how well she pushes our little car on wheels but Rowan did not like being along for the ride... Big tears, sad face, frowning cry. It's all there. Until Ro realizes that she actually likes it. We loved having Elise and Mommy Wendy over. Next time to the steam trains!

Loving Stairs

2009-05-17T20:28:00.000-07:00

Rowan loved to climb the two living room stairs at Grandma Marilynn's house! The super cute Baby Lulu outfit is courtesy of Grandma too!

Mother's Day

2009-05-13T19:37:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful Mother's Day (my first!) in Las Vegas. Rowan had so much fun with her grandma and great grandma that she wasn't bored for a minute. She was especially happy in the pool because Grandma Marilynn got her a blow-up boat! It was adorable to watch her little feet kick and paddle. Here's a video that only a Grandma would want to watch. :) About 5 minutes of Rowan in the pool with the three of us talking to her in high-pitched video.

Big Girl Bath!

2009-04-29T00:12:00.001-07:00

Brian made Rowan Cry!

2009-04-26T20:39:00.001-07:00

Rowan tried to eat Brian's dirty big toe today. Realizing it, he quickly snapped, "NO NO!" in his loud man-voice. Rowan immediately paused in shock, looked up at Brian with wide round eyes and made the saddest, quivering frown. Then came the streaming tears and waaAAAAAHHHHHHH! It was the saddest thing we've ever seen. And it was the first time we 'yelled' towards her and she understood we were mad (though we actually were trying to prevent her from a whole mouth of bad breath).

Oh, little girl. You are so precious.

(Photo from the day we took her home last June)

Happy 10-month Birthday!

2009-04-19T15:37:00.001-07:00

Rowan is ten months today. We had a great time at the petting zoo and hung out with friends Angela, James and 16 month old Maya. We saw a giant mama pig and her 8 piglets, geese, the standard moo cow and even fed him cabbage. Rowan is passed out in her crib at the moment. Her dad and I are thinking of taking a nap too. It's 85 degrees outside! Too Hot!

Rowan is Trilingual

2009-04-17T14:37:00.000-07:00

Rowan already understands Spanish (thank you Celia!) & English but today, she did her very first sign! Brian and I have been signing with her since 4 months old but nothing has come of it. Then Celia and I were talking and making Rowan her bottle when all of a sudden Rowan sticks out both of her hands and signs for MILK! We made her do it three more times because we were so excited. The video is of her eating and mean mom takes away the bottle to see the new trick! Next, we teach her the sign for poopy diaper. :)

Chasing Rowan!

2009-04-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

Chew On This

2009-04-15T22:06:00.000-07:00

So many new teeth and all coming in at the same time! Luckily, Rowan's found a new teething toy to make her feel better. Until Daddy shows up with the camera...

UP!

2009-04-14T18:50:00.001-07:00

Rowan just said her first word!!! UP! It's actually the third time she said it but we weren't positive she said it with any meaning until right now. WHOO HOO! She's amazing!

Update: Brian actually heard her first word (UP) yesterday when she asked to get out of her crib. So technically it was yesterday she started talkin!

My New Pet Project

2009-04-13T14:48:00.000-07:00

We're finally fixing up the house. The paint is almost done -photos to come, the furniture has been laid out properly and our rooms have been repurposed. We need a few pieces to finish the look and I've been scouring estate sales and used furniture listings.

After LOTS of craigslist viewing, I found and purchased this beautiful antique... a 50s walnut-lime China Hutch in near-perfect condition. It will be used in my craft room (formerly known as Brian's office) to house crafting goodies (stamps, paper, ribbons, scrapbooks, albums, etc.) and even has nifty silverware drawers to help me organize my 'stuff'. Brian and I are thinking of painting it white but keeping the knobs as they are- gold and fabulous. The molding is to die-for and the glass doors are brand new. After absolutely no bargaining, I bought this piece for a meager $125. I could easily paint and resell for $600+ but would rather keep it. Ain't that always the case!

At the Antique Arcade Game Museum

2009-04-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

Full Steam Ahead!

2009-04-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

The Steam Train

The Conductor and the kid

In the train car

Enjoyng the wind in her hair

Beautiful scenery

Beautiful niece!

View of the Golden Gate

Train tracks for the hobbiests. They run their self-built ones on the weekends.

The caboose.

Brian, Rowan, Morgan (who visited with Miranda for their spring break!) and I went on our neighborhood Steam Train. Ain't Berkeley great?! It's the most awesome thing. It is owned and operated by true train hobbiests and carries about 100 people through Tilden Park redwoods for about a 12-minute run. Rowan LOVED it. She kept her mouth wide open almost the whole time. Brian already bought a conductor hat. Kidding. But he's going to....

Grigas and Rays - together again

2009-04-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

We were so glad to see Jodi (who basically grew up with Brian since their moms were best friends). She visited from SoCal last week. Jodi said that she's making Auntie Janet very jealous by seeing our little Rowan first! So we better get down to the OC one day soon...

Easter in a Box!

2009-04-06T21:52:00.000-07:00

Marfry and Gramps sent Rowan an easter basket via USPS. We opened it up and then she picked out all the goodies... starting with the Cadbury chocolate eggs (for mommy not baby) and then her easter duck carebear. Lastly, she wore her bunny ears while checking out all the fun goodies!

"Ooh, purple teething plastic wrap!"

"Yum. Feels good on those first 3 teeth I got last weekend!"

"Mom, did you see this?"

"Okay, let's get these things on so Mom can take a picture."

"Look Morgan and Mana, a duckie!"

"Now what's this? Hmmm, a soft birdie blanket! Matches my ears."

"Happy Easter Everyone!"

Doctor, doctor....give us the news!

2009-03-28T15:04:00.000-07:00

Our little monkey is 18 pounds and 12 ounces! Only 2 & 1/4 pounds until she can face forward in her car seat. We think that will make rides much more enjoyable for her. The doctor said everything looks great. Rowan's made friends with all the nurses and receptionists so we always have a good appointment. Way to socialize with the right people! :) Rowan did have to get a shot though. Her sad little face once she realized what happened was quite hard to handle. But it was sooooo cute too! Sweet thing.

Rowan and Natalie Back Together Again!

2009-03-25T20:36:00.000-07:00

Strolling to see the capitol in Sacramento.

Lunching with the ladies, Tony, Brian & Rachel.

Rachel is surrounded by baby.

Natalie checking out Rowan's new ride.

We took Rowan and the dogs to Sacramento to see cousins Tony, Rachel and little Natalie! The city was so much fun, the company was excellent and the accommodations were incredibly baby-friendly. :) Luckily for us, the Storms were coming to San Francisco a few days later so we got to play again. The four girls went to lunch in Berkeley and walked the 4th Street shops. Then we all met up for dinner at home. But at 8pm we got very upset. American Idol was postponed a day.

Her New Wheels

2009-03-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

Vroom Vroom!

Making her way through the kitchen.

Nothing but the taillights.

We bought Rowan a pink car walker. She loves it! It honks, it sings, it cruises through the house. She's already into walking so I'm pretty excited to see how she takes to the new toy.

Peek-A-Boo!

2009-03-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

Rowan is completely obsessed with playing "Where's Rowan?" It's the funniest thing because she doesn't hide behind an object or anything.. she lifts up her shirt. I also call it "Babies Gone Wild." The peek-a-boo game goes something like this: We're hanging out, playing, eating, what-have-you. Rowan is totally pre-occupied then all of a sudden... the shirt goes right up over her head. If I don't say, "Where's Rowan?" she'll peek around her shirt to see if I'm watching. When I do say it.. she waits about a second and then throws her shirt down. This is when I'm suppose to say "THERE she is!" She likes to play while we're in the car too. She'll hold her blanket up over her head and wait for me to spy her in the rear view. Brian and I never thought we could get so much enjoyment out of peek-a-boo.

Comparing Notes

2009-03-14T21:54:00.000-07:00

Daddy's LIPS, Mommy's eyebrows, Daddy's nose, Mommy's eyes, Daddy's hair, Mommy's hair and skin coloring, Daddy's long guitar-playing fingers, Mommy's face shape, and lastly... Mommy's love for pink. Boy does Rowan look like daddy in these photos though... Love that perfect mix baby!

Blast from the Past

2009-03-14T21:43:00.000-07:00

Here are Rowan's long-lost photos from the hospital! These were taken on her 2nd day in the world. I remember Brian and I having to change her for the first time from her hospital onesie to this pink-striped white nightgown and pink beanie. It was terrifying! Remember she was only 5 lbs, 10 ounces. Little precious baby girl!!!

All the Row's Men

2009-03-11T18:11:00.000-07:00

Rowan had two male playdates within 24 hours! The first was Bryson (4 months, shown above) and the second was an older man, Evan (11 months). She was so into playing with them, sharing toys, taking toys, mimicking their sounds and petting them. Yes, petting. After all our begging for her to be 'gentle' with Louis and Murray, she's now using the advice with her friends too. Can't wait for more play time with babies!

Our Neighborhood Petting Zoo

2009-03-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

We have a Little Farm (also called that) in the regional park over the hill from our house. We took Rowan to her first petting zoo!

She loved listening and watching the geese bop around. Especially since they were bigger than her.

Leaning over to get a better look.

Bah Bah black sheep, why are your eyes so scary?

The rooster - matching Rowan's sweater - was crowing while we took this photo.

Rowan looks like a big girl hanging over the bunny house!

We had a great time in Tilden Park. Rowan was in heaven and actually, so were we! It's absolutely beautiful and has so many activities to experience. Two things we didn't have time to enjoy were the Steam Train and the Merry-Go-Round. Perhaps, we'll get back there next week. On a similar topic, Rowan tried chicken for the first time tonight. She loves it. Yum!

Asleep at the Wheel

2009-03-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

ROWAN'S FIRST DRUM CIRCLE

2009-03-10T21:19:00.000-07:00

Above: Mentally preparing before the festivities.

Above: Dancing, screeching and socializing in the circle.

On March 8 we actually 'happened upon' a drum circle in celebration of International Women's Day. We embraced the happenstance by placing our only child in the center of the middle-aged lesbian drumming group. The best part is that I'm not even exaggerating or being funny. It's true! It's true!

Happy International Women's Day from Berkeley!

Ouch, my beard!!

2009-03-06T22:06:00.000-08:00

The Three Caballeros

2009-03-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

Fresh off the Boat

2009-03-06T21:55:00.000-08:00

Brian's dad (Dave aka Gramps) came to visit us this week. We had such a great time watching him play with his granddaughter. She loved him! We took a day to take Dave sightseeing. We left Berkeley, took the bay bridge to the city, drove through SF, hit the Golden Gate, toured Tiberon, and topped it all off with dinner at the Melting Pot. I hadn't had it since college. It was my favorite place and didn't disappoint x years later. ;) Full was an understatement!

2009-03-05T13:24:00.000-08:00

"Thanks for the new toy, Natalie!"

Aloha Tristan!

2009-03-03T20:09:00.000-08:00

We welcome Christian and Shandra to the wonderful world of parenthood. Tristan Kamuela Hastings was born in Honolulu a few days ago. Congratulations!

Backpackin' It

2009-03-03T20:00:00.000-08:00

We went on a walk around the 'hood on our first day home. Dropped off a couple of thank you gifts to our amazing neighbors who watched out for the house while we were in LA. Then we headed down to our hill/look out point where I worried we'd slide into UC Berkeley's science lab. Brian wore Rowan on his back for the first time. She loved it and especially enjoyed looking to the right. (Though I'm pretty sure it's because when she looked left, her hat covered her face but who's asking?) We're happy to be home though we miss our lovely Malibu family & friends.

Like Father, Like Daughter

2009-03-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

Our day out in the rain.

Sock it

2009-03-03T18:50:00.000-08:00

This is how we keep Rowan quiet while we have pastrami at Saul's deli.

Park and Recreation

2009-02-23T21:41:00.000-08:00

There's nothing more fun than a germ-infested yellow swing! Rowan's sitting up so well that she almost looks like a big girl in it. We also have fun holding her as she shimmies down the playground's slide. She LOVES it. Her giggling and laughing makes any petty problem fade away. We're going to bottle her giggle and sell it on late-night infomercials. It could single-handedly put the prozac manufacturers out of business....

Don't Hassle the Hoffs

2009-02-23T13:15:00.000-08:00

The Hoffmans came to visit Rowan this weekend...though it was clear that five-year-old Sophia enjoyed seeing Murray the most. (Who can blame her?) We all chatted, walked around cross creek, ate frozen yogurt -big shock- and loved up the San Clemente memories. Thanks to them for coming!

Head in the Clouds

2009-02-19T19:04:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 8 Month BIRTHDAY, ROWAN!

Rowan had a wonderful birthday at the park. There were loads of children and Rowan couldn't contain her laughter and excitement. She didn't eat cake but her daddy and I had loads of frozen yogurt. Delicious! We're going to miss Malibu Yogurt. Perhaps it ships to Berkeley.

It's in her Jeans

2009-02-16T20:11:00.000-08:00

Thanks, Grandma Martha ("Marfry") for the new jeans and cool newsboy caps. I match my daddy now!

She Likes to Lean

2009-02-15T22:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-13T19:21:00.000-08:00

Beach before the Storm

2009-02-13T14:17:00.000-08:00

We're having a great time at the beach. We spend every early evening walking the dogs and ourselves down the sand and enjoying a western sunset. Today came the rains so we thought we'd post these photos of sunnier times!

Feed Me, Mommy!

2009-02-11T12:09:00.000-08:00

Rowan's been loving all kinds of new foods these days. Here's her current list of solids: carrots, squash, pear, apple, papaya, zucchini, spinach, sweet potato, potato, banana (which actually seems to disagree with her little belly) and we'll start with more today! We steam and puree all the 'organic' produce and veges ourselves thanks to the William Sonoma baby food maker. In the photo she's eating an oatmeal and pear breakfast. Yum!

Cleanliness is close to Rowan-ness

2009-02-10T21:12:00.000-08:00

Splish Splash, Row was takin' a....

2009-02-10T21:02:00.000-08:00

Too Hip to be Square

2009-02-09T22:21:00.000-08:00

Shake, Rattle and Roll

2009-02-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

New cozy and fashionable pajamas make Rowan all giddy!

Venice

2009-02-08T14:21:00.000-08:00

Brian and I went on a lunch date in Venice. We saw a giant painting of Abbot Kinney, the namesake for Venice's coolest street. Here he poses with some wall posters. He's such a hamm. ;)

Hair is Amazing!

2009-02-03T22:28:00.000-08:00

Our little beach bum...

2009-02-03T21:01:00.001-08:00

News from the Naked

2009-02-02T18:53:00.001-08:00

Row is getting up on all fours (barely) and itching to crawl. She'll be scrambling around the house on her own ANY day now. On a food note, it seems that bananas make Rowan spit up, though she isn't one to complain. My new shirts however, are pissed. We had a great weekend with Mike, Morgan, Miranda and Nick! They came up to surprise Brian for his 32nd birthday. For his birthday, he got tools from me, a 'poop' log from Mike & the kids (along with a framed photo of Mike Watt), clothes from my mom, 19th century maps from his parents and Rowan gave him the best present of all.... she now says: "dah-dah-dah-dah". So what if she has no idea that references Brian?! It's her first time actually making that type of sound. We're so proud! Happy birthday to her amazing Daddy!!!

Updates from the 'Bu

2009-01-27T16:00:00.000-08:00

Rowan ate bananas yesterday AND she got up on all fours. It was only a second but she's definitely priming those cute chubsicles for crawling. And she wore a headband for the first time. It was so cute. We'll photograph it next time.

Tush Push

2009-01-21T20:35:00.000-08:00

Waking up from an afternoon nap...

Baby Bono

2009-01-20T15:54:00.001-08:00

Checking out the Waves

The Inauguration of Barack Obama

2009-01-20T13:53:00.000-08:00

At 7am this morning, we gathered 'round the television to watch Barack H. Obama become our 44th president. We laughed, we cried, we beamed with pride. Rowan was most interested in the pomp and circumstance- notably the procession of gorgeous winter coats! That girl marched me upstairs and demanded I change her into a more suitable ensemble. She let me pick out the top and pants but insisted I featuring her faux fur shrug. It's chilly in D.C.!

Happy 7 Month Birthday. Rowan!

2009-01-19T22:36:00.000-08:00

Me, 7 months pregnant

It feels like only yesterday that you were swimming around in the womb, while today, you swim around in a zebra two-piece. We're so proud of you, Growin' Rowan! Rowan, 7 months adorable

Baby Product Recommendation

2009-01-19T09:15:00.000-08:00

Aveeno Baby Soothing Relief Creamy Wash

Rowan was getting scaly red dry patches on her cheeks, nose and chin last week. We weren't sure if it was a reaction to the weather change, detergent change, new oatmeal feedings, who knew? But it was getting worse and worse. Eczema? Allergy? Plain ol' dryness? Regardless, I bought the Aveeno wash above - previously we were using Cetaphil or sometimes Aveeno regular baby wash. This product helped Rowan after only one bath! After each bath she's better so it's not just a one-shot deal. I also began to use cetaphil moisturizer about 3 times a day on her dry areas and that worked too. I may switch to the Aveeno one though but cetaphil is nice and thin. This weather (especially in SoCal) is terribly arid. Brian and I can't keep our lips from peeling so Rowan's sensitive little skin must need loads of extra care.

I HIGHLY recommend this product for the babies with eczema or just plain ol' dryness. Let me know how it works! [Click on the product name to be linked to its description at Diapers.com.]

Sunset on the Best Coast

2009-01-17T18:25:00.000-08:00

It's Saturday and we've been making the most of Brian's only afternoon 'off'. We went to lunch on Zuma Beach with Lika, Andrew, James, Justin and Uncle Albert. Barely 20 feet from the shore we spotted a huge whale breaching and spouting its way down south. (A late start for the winter migration? Or just playing along the coast on his way back to Alaska?) It was as if someone queed the mammal for our arrival. Isn't that the way it always works? Late afternoon we walked along the beach (as we do each day). It's so peaceful with the exception of us screaming at Murray to hurry the h*%# up! He always takes up the rear to inspect and mark every inch of staircase/house foundation. God forbid the whole beach doesn't smell like Murray pee. Louis, however, sprints back and forth around us like his tail's on fire (though he still finds the time to make his own contribution to the Colony stairways). Rowan just takes it all in - the sounds, the smells, her parents' shouting at the dogs... Now we're winding down. Wanted to make turkey tacos for dinner but all four of the avocados I bought from Ralphs were rotten!! And what's mexican food without guac? Good night to all!

Amy vs. Wolfgang

2009-01-16T21:31:00.000-08:00

The Frozen Pizza bite off happened tonight. Wolfgang Puck now does 'all natural' frozen pizzas, shown above after we ate half. We usually have Amy's (the full pizza) so we compared.

Amy's Pizza Pesto
Made with organic vegetables and basil
Total Calories: 930
Total Fat: 36 grams
Carbs: 117 grams
Protein: 36 grams
Sodium: 1523mg
Dough: very tasty
Cheese: enough for me, the cheese lover

Wolfgang Puck's All Natural Uncured Pepperoni Pizza
Total Calories: 1083
Total Fat: 57 grams
Sodium: 2610 grams
Carbs: 96 grams
Protein: 48 grams
Dough: tastes just like California Pizza Kitchen (not a Wolfgang restaurant though)
Cheese: plenty without being too much

Overall, both tasted delicious. Amy's has more healthy gourmet taste to it. We'd go with Wolfgang if we felt like restaurant pizza or meat pizza. We'll stick with Amy's at home. Winner!

Face Time

2009-01-16T09:26:00.000-08:00

Rowan's skin is a mess thanks to warm weather kisses from the Santa Ana winds. It's been 80 degrees for the last week, but all of us have been suffering from intense dryiness. Little monkey has had some peeling on her cheeks and some bumps on her forehead and body. We're hoping it's not eczema though if it is, we just have to stay on top of her moisturizer and watch to see if anything is giving her allergic reactions. At least red is a good color on her.... SIDE NOTE: I was taking these pictures to document Rowan's red blotchiness but she wouldn't stop being adorable and fun so I never got a good one for the doctor. This baby loves to love!

Monkeying Around

2009-01-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

Rowan, the doggies and I are enjoying Malibu while Brian studies. We have been walking everywhere and Rowan's quite familiar with Malibu Yogurt and the other restaurants. Damien and Erin came to visit from San Diego a couple days ago. Rowan adored them, no surprise. We've all been spending quality sun time on the deck as it is 80 degrees here in January. Crazy! And as a side note, D & Erin got us the Baby Food Maker from William Sonoma!! We are soooo excited to use it! Rowan loves her homemade squash....

Brian's (Latest) Big Accomplishment!

2009-01-16T08:13:00.000-08:00

Last week Brian earned his professional accreditation as a Leader in Energy and Environmental Design.

LEED Professional Accreditation recognizes building professionals with the knowledge and skills to successfully steward the integrated design and LEED certification process.

LEED Accredited Professionals have demonstrated a thorough understanding of green building practices and principles and familiarity with LEED requirements, resources and processes. This title is a valuable and marketable credential for employers, prospective employers or clients. Brian is now listed on the USGBC website directory of LEED Accredited Professionals!

A very few percentage pass this exam the first time so we are all so proud. His new initials are:

Brian Lee Ray L.E.E.D. AP

Buddha meet Rowan...

2009-01-06T20:48:00.000-08:00

Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without...clean diapers.

Bath Time in Hawaii

2009-01-06T20:43:00.000-08:00

Not only did Rowan love her bathtime (she's a major water splasher!) but she enjoyed it - and the view - in style with her turquoise sunglasses.

No Swaddle Needed!

2009-01-06T15:29:00.001-08:00

This is what Rowan looks like when left to her own, unswaddled devices. She's so darn cute. And why does every baby sleep with his/her butt in the air? Feel free to leave a comment with your answers.

Back in Business

2009-01-03T12:23:00.000-08:00

Hi all. We're back in Berkeley after a great Hawaiian vacation. Photos and comments to come soon. xo

Singing in the Rain

2008-12-16T20:13:00.000-08:00

We braved the 37 degree weather - stormy, rainy mess! - and went to Linner (lunch/dinner) at Angeline's Louisianna Kitchen yesterday. The food was outstanding... ribs, sweet potato mash, jambalaya, bananas foster bread pudding and cooked-to-order beignets. Rowan rocked her tie-dye onesie bought on Telegraph and bundled up with a white fuzzy onesie and knit cap. So cute!

Hanukkah Comes Early!

2008-12-14T08:53:00.000-08:00

Brian wears his Hanukkah presents from my mom. Snazzy!

Weighing In

2008-12-12T22:03:00.000-08:00

Rowan had her 6-month check-up today (just a few days shy of her actual 6-month birthday). She's now 15 pounds and 27 inches tall! Even though she's only in the 25-50th weight percentile for her age, we like to make her look as chubby as possible in all our shots. We love the chubs!! And speaking of shots, Rowan got a round of immunizations. So far, so good. She's sleeping now. More info soon.

Westsiiiide

2008-12-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

We may be taking a trip to LA early next year. Rowan's practicing her gang signs. We'll keep you posted.