Cat in the box

oh what is this?
a cat in a box
not a fox
or a pair of socks

Is he playing a game with me?

Christmas time in San Diego

After being away for some many holidays, I find myself on familiar ground. Strange feeling to return to your hometown. Stranger still when you have acquired a mini-series worth of experiences and have a family of your own. Sure, it has only been 9 years since I last lived in San Diego and only four years since I spent a significant period of time here.

In spite of relocating without a job, I take comfort in my family and knowing that my son will get the opportunity to share in my childhood joys. Albeit, a different version of some of the same experiences. One such experience is living in a non-winter climate. Sort of a two and a half season year. One summer, one spring and half of a fall. Heck, if one wants winter - just take a trip north or east and you will quickly remember why San Diego is a popular place to live and visit. I love the seasons and luckily for us we have family and friends to visit. However, I look forward to hosting a few sunny Christmases for family too.

Leaving on a jet plane

So - we were frantically rushed the afternoon we left. It was choas. Now looking back, I grossly underestimated how much we had and how long it would take to pack it. However, we made it and the Dude is now a San Diegan (along with his Dad too).

Here he is at the airport in his seat, waiting for our plane to arrive; and us to board. Our plane was delayed because of the poor weather. We had to stop in Phoenix to refuel because of the strong winds (it was a nonstop), and we didn't get in until well after mid-night. What a long trip, but at least we are now HOME.

Christmas card photo shoot

With Johanna hanging out with us, I decided I would try my hand at taking the Dude's photo for our Christmas cards. Well, the follow series is the result. Two things to know about an 8 1/2 month old.
1. They do not sit still
2. Apparently, they never close their mouth.

You'll see the winning selection in your mailbox with your Christmas card.

Moda and North end shopping fun

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Dude loves him some Street

Sesame Street that is. He stops everything, all trouble once he hears Murray the Monster say, Word on the Street, which proceeds the theme song opening. Afterwards, he's back to his usual trouble making ways.

At least we get two minutes of rest...

Obstacle Course

This captures the Dude's latest move, climbing through his exersaucer. He's amused, and that is all that matters, right?

Through the looking glass

Cute video of the Dude (like there is anything other) peeking through a glass door at Dantes (the cat), who is all to aware that a little person stalks him. Nothing like a little motivation too. Actually gets him to get on his hands and knees, and nearly pull himself up along the door.

Election Night in Chicago

20081104_Chicago_IL_ElectionNight1258
Originally uploaded by Barack Obama.

It amazes me to have access, personal access into a moment like this. Obama's campaign should be commended for engaging the public through new media. Awesome.

Inside look into a future President's election night

20081104_Chicago_IL_ElectionNight1032
Originally uploaded by Barack Obama.

Election night with Barack Obama. Absolutely amazing, how his campaign melds new technologies, mediums of communication to share moments (like this) with everyone. It should become a case study for community organizing. YES, WE CAN.

GOTV WEEKEND

Well, it is the eve of the Election. The first Presidential election I haven't been a part of working since 1996. I know friends who are out there hitting the streets, prepping for the war room and GOTV election day operations. I, on the other hand, am updating my blog after putting the kid to bed.

I'm listening to the television and can hear the ads running non-stop. We get New Hampshire ads because the media market covers the region. The US Senate race up there has been nasty for weeks and now both candidates are throwing their last desperate punches before the bell rings.

I'm relaxed, and exhausted from other reasons than past election eves. People ask me if I miss it. Sometimes I do. I miss the intensity of a campaign. Its pulse that flows faster than normal lives. I miss the camaraderie that a campaign brings, as people connect; and for better or worse, become familial. I don't feel the personal sacrifice and the anxiety that goes with so much personal investment, not working this cycle. I don't worry (in the same way) how people are going to vote because I no longer contribute my life to it. I'm able to watch from the outside. It doesn't mean that I don't care. I'm voting and encourage everyone I know to vote (and vote Democrat). However, I have my own constituent who needs me and with whom my sacrifice is no sacrifice at all.

Family Night Out

Saturday, we ventured out for a full evening. We ate dinner at Anna's Taqueira. Now that the Dude is able to sit in a high chair, eating out has become easier. At least until he insists on eating and making a huge mess. He's our little guy amusing himself with a spoon.


Afterwards, we made out way over to the Boston Garden to watch the Bruins take on the Stars. The night was a success because I got to watch a long time favorite, Mike Modano (not to be disloyal to Trevor Linden).











The Dude was able to experience his first NHL hockey game. All around it was a success, as he lasted through the evening (albeit asleep for most of the third period). There were lots of fights, and several game misconducts, which made not only his Dad happy but the three boys sitting on our right. I know this because their chants consisted of SCORE or PUNCH SOMEONE IN THE NOSE. Ahhh, what I have to look forward too.




The Garden before game starts.





The Dude is making the rounds because last weekend we went to a Boston University v. Michigan hockey game. I'm still waiting on the picture from that evening (Group shot with the mascot, Rhett the Terrier). He is 2-0 watching his home teams (we cheer for the home team) demolish the visitors. Maybe I need to take him to a Chargers game and bring them some luck.

Palin for President

A colleague at work sent this site to me. Giggles abound as you click on the various items in the room. Apparently, it updates and changes too.

www.palinaspresident.us

GOTV Weekend

Everyone out there - VOTE. Don't forget that the Presidential election is only a part of the ticket. It might be top of the ticket, but keenly look all offices, including your local State Representatives, etc. Most of the day-to-day operations like traffic, parking, taxes (both sales and property) are dictated by State and City Governments.

Don't get caught up in the hoopla of presidential politics, and not cast your vote because you think it doesn't matter. Just look around your street or neighborhood and realize that most services you receive are provided by local government. Know the candidates and where they stand. Make a real difference and VOTE on Tuesday.

Cat chasing their tail

Or at least the Dude's version of the above. I've got years of this sort of amusement ahead of me. Woohoo!



And "NO, we didn't tie the balloon to his leg."

Forgetting Sarah Marshall

Gotta check out this movie if you haven't already. I love these comedies, this one was written by Jason Segel (who stars in it), aka Marshall on How I Met Your Mother. After getting over the shock of seeing nude frontal shots, I knew I had no idea what was going to happen next. I like that they didn't go for cheap laughs and the humor is subtle and sort of sweet.

Definitely a must. It made Gunnar laugh aloud (which is rare).

Another reason to love John Cusack

Like I needed another reason...

Bath time

The Dude and I ventured all over the city, into Cambridge and even Malden this weekend. No surprise that he passed out by 9 o'clock. I captured his playfulness this evening during bathtime. Usually I don't think of taking a picture, but now he's getting more playful and self-assured in his little bath that he's too cute not to take a picture.

Our evening with Sedaris

Sunday evening was a fantastic evening. Not because we had a sitter and we're getting out of the house sans baby; and not because the Chargers demolished the New England Patriots; but because David Sedaris was on his game.

If you have not read Sedaris, check him out. Gunnar suggested I read him, and for the past two years I've taken Gunnar to see Sedaris on tour for his birthday present. I love giving gifts that I can enjoy too. I love hearing his stories. Maybe its the writer in me that admires his ability to tell stories of his life with such wit and humor. I suspect I enjoy seeing him because I'm enamoured with the idea that he gets paid to go on tour and READ his stories, not just write them.

He read a story on voting that should be in an upcoming issue of the New Yorker. Pick it up, I know I will.

What??

Over the weekend Gunnar and I met some friends at Joshua Tree in Davis Square, Somerville, MA. I would highly recommend it for the food (chicken quesos were packed) and the green salad was fresh. However, the most annoying thing happened to me, at the end of the evening, and left a terrible after taste.

We paid the checks, chatting and finishing up our beers. I had the Seadog blueberry ale. I love blueberry ales because you actually get blueberries, which are the pseudo cherry on top (only at bottom because they sink). WELL, just as we sat there, a guy walks by and swoops by clearing my beer that isn't finished. Blueberries and all. I was so irritated that I mentioned the incident to our server who apologized for her Manager (the swooper), but it didn't bring back my blueberries. Hardly worth another beer I suppose, or a free anything. Needless to say, I left unsatisfied.

Next time my hand doesn't leave the glass. Seriously.

Sitting in the high chair

Friday night, the Dude and I went to Wagamama and sat on the patio. We people watched, but the big event of the evening. He was sitting in the high chair all by himself throughout our dinner.

Going for the remote, of course

He started crawling this past week. You can see what is his motivation - the tv remote control.

Loves him some sweet potatoes

6 months

Six months passed by so quickly. Watching him grow is more fun than one ever imagines. Talk about entertainment.

Date night with the Gin Blossoms

Drove down to Foxboro for the first time to see the Gin Blossoms. Turn down the volume as sound quality isn't the greatest, but picture isn't bad.



Another favorite snip from their encore


Big Shout out to Katie who graciously watched the Dude and lent us her wheels!

Leading by example

Before I was pregnant, I began the process to become a big sister. As I'm unable to commit to a year-long time heavy program, I've decided to see what other options for volunteer work is available. I want to set an good example for the Dude, showing him that it is important to help others in a variety of ways.

Last Thursday I went to a fundraiser and donated some of the Dude's newborn clothes. Check out http://www.roomtogrow.org/. It is a organization that assists building parenting skills while providing high quality clothes, toys and books to children 0-3 years of age. Parents enter the program once they give birth and the child graduates after 3 years. It is a great program, so contact them to volunteer or donate.

Time flies

He turns 6 months next week. I can't believe we have a 6 month old. He's begun to eat baby food, recognizes his bottle (or any bottle as something he wants) and is the smartest little guy. Of course, we are not biased.


Picture taken by Johanna Young

Some one got their bottom teeth

 His two bottom teeth have arrived. They broke through at five months. I've been trying to capture his teeth marks in the keepsake Tiffany ring that Jos (Godmother extraordinaire) gave us. Just look at that concentration.

4th of July

We spent the day seeing movies - Incredible Hulk and Hitch; and watching the fireworks from Gunnar's office in the Prudential Center. It was a first to watch fireworks at eye-level.

Our first family photo!

picture by Deepak Ravindranath

Tips for traveling with a baby

We took our first trip out West to visit family and friends in Vancouver. We flew into Seattle, rented a car and drove up to Vancouver.

Key for me traveling alone (Gunnar couldn't take time off) was to travel while the Dude would be sleeping; and it worked because he slept through most of the flight and car ride.

1. Knowing airline rules helps too. The TSA allows you to take liquid formula (keep separate plastic bag) for the trip. The baby bag doesn't count against your carry-on, nor does checking car seat or stroller.
2. Gate check car seat (but be prepared that if you don't cover it, it might be damaged) so if there is an empty seat you can ask to have it.
3. Book a seat in a row that has one empty seat, you might have a higher chance that it will stay empty, especially if it is a middle seat.
4. Pack lightly. Make a list for you and baby. In carry-on, pack baby change of clothes. Be realistic about your outfits and know that you can do laundry (especially if visiting family), which will reduce what you bring. Additionally, you can always buy something if you come across unexpected weather. Dress in layers and color coordinate all pieces for mix/match options.
5. Leave the hairdryer at home - most hotels and friends/family will have these items.
6. Don't pack toiletries like toothpaste. If you can't borrow, you can always purchase or request for free.
7. Ask friends/family/hotel if they can provide bassinet, crib for baby. Our hotel in Manhattan not only provided a packnplay, they provided baby shampoo, body wash and lotion. Higher rates of families travel, so most hotels now are able to accommodate baby needs - and for free.

Traveling on Train
Ask for assistance and leave plenty of time. Recently, We traveled to NYC. Taking the train was easy and comfortable for us. The conductor was really helpful, even arranging for us to sit in the handicap spot so I could keep the stroller open and the Dude could comfortably sleep. Also, a plus for me since I was able to relax too.
Our occurred on my journey back from Penn Station. I've been to Penn a dozen times before and never had any issues. However, traveling with a baby and the stroller, we encounter difficulty gaining access into the station because the taxi dropped us off on the backside. We couldn't find an elevator and when we finally did, it was out of order. Luckily I had a friend with me; and we carried the stroller down. Then, we couldn't get down to the platform. I never thought to ask for assistance because I've never needed it before. When you have a baby - you are grouped in with the disabled. Right or not, work the system and go with the flow because it will be easier for you. Unlike me, hopefully you will not miss your train. Yup. Lesson learned - ask for assistance.

Our little dude

Big yawn after our first visit.

Bundled up to head out for pediatrician visit. Living in the city means, Dr. Trapasso is around the block from our apartment.

5 days old

Just minutes after born

9/20/03 at 9:23

Brigham and Women's Hospital

Boston, MA

2 1/2 hours pushing (hardest part by far), total of 16-17 hours labor.

10 more days

The Dude is doing some strange things inside. Definitely having "Alien" moments, expecting him to emerge through my stomach. We have set up everything, washed his clothes and now just will wait for him to arrive.

I do hope he arrives as scheduled, but am fully prepared for the fact that on 20 percent arrive on due date. He should wait until the 22nd because I want him to be an Aries. I have a good track record with Aries'.

well, should get back to work as I'm treating any day as my last before a very long hiatus.

This is irony

Trying to be healthy and thoughtful I purchased an Odwalla drink from my local grocer on Monday for G because he was feeling under the weather. He didn't want to drink it, so I downed in later that evening. Well, I woke up in the wee hours of the morning not feeling quite right, but I'm 32 weeks pregnant so what else is new. I spent the next 24 hours feeling more than terrible. We suspect it was food poisoning since G and I had eaten same lunch and dinner that day. What a bummer. Definitely do not recommend. Baby is fine because at the OBGYN she gave us a stress test since I was so ill, just as a precaution.

I'm happy to report I feel much better and sadly, am back work. At least it is Thursday.

2008 is in full swing

I'm terrible at blogging. New Year's resolution - to write more and this will count towards it. Another year, and what a year it will be. Gunnar and I are expecting our first (of course) child, who we know is a boy. We are excited and I can't wait to see who he looks like. My due date is March 23, but he'll come when he's ready.

Everyday Gunnar reminds me to eat something specific. It is pretty funny. For example, this morning he said, eat a yogurt. Last night for dinner he made bbq chicken wings (a favorite of mine) and he doesn't even like wings; and they were tasty.