All About Eva

December in California

2012-01-02T08:03:00.001-08:00

Since the pressure to catch up on the past 6 months made the task feel seemingly insurmountable, we're fast forwarding to the present.

Not surprisingly, California has been gorgeous. Really showing off. We are feeling a palpable sadness at the prospect of returning to sub-zero temperatures.

Catching up to the present day

2011-12-09T09:15:00.001-08:00

Summer and fall in Boston were fabulous, as usual. We mixed up the summer with a trip to Storyland and lots of local mini adventures. Eva as usual seemed to have a pretty good time, no matter the setting.

Summer adventures

2011-11-26T06:48:00.001-08:00

A whole new world

2011-11-26T06:17:00.001-08:00

So, the era of the smartphone had also meant putting our blog on life support... Since we no longer carried a camera around (handy iPhone always on hand) the effort required to email phone-captured pictures to the computer, from whence to publish to blog, seemed like a whole lotta effort. (I know, we're kinda lazy that way.)

But now, having just discovered an app to let me publish directly from the phone ... Wheee! I might be goin back a ways to get caught up. At least up to mid-summer.

First post from the iPhone era

2011-11-26T06:01:00.001-08:00

This is mostly a test. If the test goes well, we shall soon see a return to blogging about Eva in full force.

Eva's first year at Northeastern comes to a close...

2011-05-04T19:33:00.000-07:00

In what we hope will become an annual tradition, Eva's preschool hired one of their undergrad student teachers to take a bunch of candid pics of the kids, and we were the lucky recipients. We decided to post our favorites...which, for better or for worse, is not a short list.

Winter Reprieve: Caribbean Adventure!

2011-02-21T06:12:00.003-08:00

Yay for sun and sand! While we may be back to our snow-shoveling reality today, the tans and memories from our trip sailing the Caribbean this past week will take much longer to fade. Eva is now asking if next week is too soon to go on vacation again.

Preparing to board the ship.

Day 1, in CocoCay, Bahamas. Eva took awhile to realize she wasn't in Boston any more.

Beach girls!

Sharing a lounge chair and milkie break with Grammy.

Storytime in a beach hammock...not too shabby.

Woohoooo!

Exploring her own private Bahamanian beach.

On the "little boat" back to the "big boat" from CocoCay.

Formal night....clearly our girl knows how to go classy.

Good times.

Night out with Poppy!

Daddy exploring the rock climbing wall...

...And the FlowRider.

Relaxing with our favorite tiny barfly.

Breakfast time with Grammy!

Naptime under a low-hanging tree on a St. Thomas beach.

We couldn't have asked for a more idyllic beach spot!

Cautiously surveying the water...

And then jumping right in with Daddy!

Pirate night on the ship. Arrrrr.

Party time in St. Maarten!

Enjoying a little Red Stripe on the beach.

Ducklin Ducklin...his name is Ducklin Ducklin... (Eva's newest friend.)

Another night out, this time at the pub on the ship.

Eva, showing off her kids' talent show award. (She was spectacular, not surprisingly.)

Last day on ship, spent lounging in the water. As it should be.

More winter sporting

2011-02-21T06:02:00.000-08:00

While much of January was spent shoveling, followed by more shoveling, our 70+ inches of snow so far this winter, we did manage to find some time for fun amongst the winter grousing.

Our little snow angel.

Rocking the magic carpet.

Look at that form!

And she even carries her own gear. The perfect ski-mate.

A few of our winter icicles before being taken out by a focused shovel attack.

Winter sports and sparkles

2011-01-09T18:44:00.000-08:00

The day after Christmas brought our first real winter snowstorm of the year. We ended up with about 2 feet of snow...perfect for building a snow house and snow castle! Problem was, the "Blizzard of 2010" was immediately followed by several consecutive days of spring weather, so we're back to our boring castle-free backyard.

Another treat the snowstorm brought us was fresh powder in the mountains, inspiring us to bring Eva up for her first ever ski day! She's not quite ready for a real chairlift yet, but we're sure it's just around the corner.

We also enjoyed another official end to the holidays: Eva's stage debut in "Nutcracker Wonderland" (think: lots of small children dancing - sometimes in unison - to The Nutcracker). While Eva seemed minimally concerned with following the routine, she seemed delighted by waving to daddy from the stage and having half the audience wave back.

Marching up what was once our driveway after "Snowpocalypse 2010".

First day on skis!

Eva played the role of one the "Spanish" dancers in the Nutcracker. She owned the stage, of course.

Post-show flowers from Daddy!

Showing off her pink pucker.

Christmas Eva, Part 4!

2010-12-25T11:14:00.000-08:00

This is the first year that Eva has been fully aware of the hoopla, majesty and magic that is Christmas. She's made a list, baked cookies, and wrapped presents, but when the big morning came, she still ran right past her shiny new "kitchen"...twice! (it was a few feet away from the tree). When she did finally notice it, she focused only on the Rapunzel cup she'd been wanting.

Which made us think...maybe we could have bought a whole SET of Rapunzel cups and saved a few bucks on the kitchen!

All day Eva has been thanking the family and friends who've sent so much love and wonderful gifts. But since you all can't hear her yelling in our living room, we thought we'd say it again. Your generosity is truly appreciated! Have a wonderful Christmas, and may 2011 be spectacular!

Sliding for fun on Christmas Eve (only 10 more turns to go!)

ANTICIPATION...the night before Santa...

Congratulations, you've won...A BRAND NEW KITCHEN!!!

Enjoying her new ornament...which can be filled with shredding wrapping paper!

Taking a break to visit SnowGirl!

Who can resist admiring their new hair ties and magnificent yellow tutu?

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

Preparing for the holidays

2010-12-18T09:44:00.000-08:00

The tree is trimmed, Grandma-ma's sugar cookies have been baked, and we're ready for the holidays! With some play-time with good friends thrown in, of course.

Admiring the tree.

Three Sleeping Beauties...though none seem to be sleeping.

Cookie time! Eva was nothing but helpful, of course.

Rainy December

2010-12-12T18:03:00.001-08:00

First off, I know what followers of AAE may be wondering - where are the birthday pics?!? Well, it's a long, boring story, but suffice to say that documentation of Eva's completely fabulous B-day party is...on another computer. But not lost!

And, since there's no sense in continuing to hold up the fun while we wait for said computer access to happen, onward and upward! Especially since as of this weekend we have camera, charger AND card reader at last, in one place! Lesser mortals would have given up and just bought a new camera already, but not we. (Check again in a week to see if we still have all functioning pieces.)

Recent weeks have been predictably New England-frigid, but this weekend brought some unseasonable warmth (highs in the 40s! gasp!) and plenty of rain. We made the most of it, though; nothing like a rainy day to inspire bringing out the tutu for an indoor dance party.

Dancing shoes!

Lucky spectators definitely felt the same.

Eva called this a passe (as in, "pah-say"). Not sure if that's the real ballet term for flamingo stance, but she's got it down, whatever it is.

On our way to pick up our (very wet, but well-loved) Christmas tree!

Autumn in New England

2010-10-19T07:23:00.001-07:00

Well, technology struggles have again afflicted our tiny family. We now have a working camera but are unable to charge the battery or upload its pictures to the computer. Le sigh. In the meantime, here are a few more stunning cell-phone-mediated shots from our adventures out and about as fall has fallen up here in the Northeast!

Enthusiastic Pumpkinfest-er.

Pumpkin queen on her pumpkin throne. (Can you tell what the thematic focus of Pumpkinfest might be?)

Holding court with Nathan and Paige.

"I want TWO ponytails, Mommy!"

I know the feeling, kid.

I see you!

Checking out a piece of history - statue of Cy Young at the site of the first-ever World Series. (Which happens to be right behind Mommy's office. Easiest sightseeing trip ever.)

Who doesn't love a carousel ride??

Indoor bouncy house in a princess dress: Eva's best day ever. (With fabulous pumpkin Burke in the foreground.)

Ballerinas on the bench.

More from Storyland

2010-08-13T05:56:00.000-07:00

Hooray for responsible adult friends with functioning cameras! This just in: a few sweet pics of Eva and Paige at Storyland (which may not be the Happiest Place on Earth (TM), but is at least amongst the happiest places in New England for a small child).

Looking cool, feeling cooler.

Hanging with Humpty Dumpty. (And no, you're not the only one who thinks he looks creepy.)

Visiting the home of the Three Bears. Both ladies were contenders for the role of Goldilocks.

Most of the day was spent hand-in-hand.

By the end of the day, Eva was an amusement park ride pro and has now requested a return visit to Storyland (with Paige, of course) just about every day since we left.

Summertime and Storyland

2010-08-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

While we work on solving our current defunct camera problem, we've resorted to two solutions for documenting our little bean's every momentous move: a) relying on the kindness of friends (only works when friends are present with their own camera - less effective when surrounded by strangers, who take less kindly to your request to document your own family's fun), and b) phone camera!

Today's pics come from the latter, as evidenced by the mediocre film quality. We hear there are some cute real pics from our recent vacay somewhere in greater New England, currently stored on real cameras in the possession of certain real friends (not strangers!) and once they make their way into our grubby hands we'll upload the best of those as well.

Enjoying the sand, sun and colorful local wildlife at Revere Beach.

Snacktime after a morning of high culture at the MFA.

Sincopers! (Also known as sprinklers for those of you not named Eva.)

Steering the swan boat at Storyland (boating companion Paige also present but obscured here by large swan neck).

Since Cinderella was on a break from the throne room during our castle visit at Storyland, these two little ladies took the opportunity to get a little princess practice.

July in Connecticut

2010-08-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

This year's 4th of July weekend brought us to Westbrook, CT, for the beautiful wedding of Jeff's college BFF Scott (who might just die a little inside if he finds out he was referred to as a BFF). As Eva has now been obsessed with princesses for somewhere over a year now, and since she seems to believe that brides are actually a special category of princess, she was quite excited.

Picking out her own special outfit was fun; sadly, the special shoes were a letdown (as they often are).

Within minutes of our arrival, Eva became fast friends with the flower girl.

Relaxing after the rehearsal dinner with a few new friends and stray flower petals. (Those flowers certainly won't miss their petals, will they?)

Um, excuse me?! I stole these petals fair and square!

On the move.

Trading Mommy quiet time for yogurt-covered raisins. The deal lasted only as long as the raisins did, for about half the ceremony. Sigh.

Eva learned this day that beautiful shoes are rarely comfortable. Soon thereafter the shoes were abandoned. (We've all been there.)

Making up for lost time

2010-08-10T19:32:00.000-07:00

Wow. Mommy just realized it's been about 4 months since she uploaded pictures from the camera to her computer. Shameful. In the name of attempting to catch up a bit, I'm going way back, to the olden days of Spring 2010, to post some pics from Eva's adventures and a few good times with good friends.

Bronze frog on the Common is definitely looking a little suspicious.

Hello, Boston!

Our reluctant model. "I told you, no pictures!!!"

Cuddles from Auntie Lauren.

Exploring the properties of light at the Children's Museum.

Hard at work with Trudie.

Princess treats at Paige's princess party.

Hanging with Daddy.

Trying on Daddy's new swim mask. Sassy!

Out and about

2010-05-21T05:42:00.000-07:00

Since Mommy has a few free minutes, she's uploading some on-the-go shots from her camera phone.

Finger painting on a beautiful Sunday morning.

Delicious sand pie.

Eva visiting her fishy friends at the New England Aquarium.

Tea party with Eva's inanimate BFFs.

Another new friend at the Stone Zoo.

Trying on Grandma's new hat.

The Post That Took WAY TOO LONG!

2010-05-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

Sorry to have kept you all waiting for so long. Our Eva keeps us busy, but really, we have no good excuses. Spring has been wonderful in Boston, and you can guess who has been enjoying it more than anyone else! (Hint: She is between two and three feet tall but enormously cute).

Primping for the princess party.

Special for you!

A delightful spring day!

Couture day with best friend and fellow hipster, Princess Paige.

PINK ALERT! Toddler on the loose at Massachusetts State House!

The Princess & The Frog.

What could be more enjoyable than a hard plastic chaise lounge? That's right...nothing!

Springtime at the "secret" playground.

Someone knows where the chocolate lives....and how to operate a footstool.
(VIEWER ADVISORY: It does not end well for our tiny heroine. Sniff.)

Putting away the puffy coats

2010-03-28T18:43:00.000-07:00

February and March are interesting months in the Northeast. One day it's in the upper 60's and you're wearing a T-shirt; the next, it's snowing. Again. (Again? Really?) Mostly, though, it's somewhat cool, and either raining (a LOT) or absolutely beautiful. As you might guess, most of the pictures we've had the opportunity to take during the last month have been during glorious periods of the latter.

Amongst the usual chaos of life, we spent a weekend visiting Jessica and Jeremy in Keene, NH, and were delighted to make the acquaintance of one Burke Indigo, who has presence and grace which belie her modest age. And Eva thought it was kind of fun to be the big girl for awhile.

Eva with little Miss Burke.

Enjoying the Densmore/Donovans' famous hot tub with Daddy.

Can I interest you in some twigs? Perhaps a couple dried leaves? Did you notice how cute I am?

First jacket-free playground day of 2010. Definitely cause for looking a bit like the cat who just snagged a canary on the sly.

But really. Eva just loved rediscovering one of her favorite playground after several months of being bundled away.

Posing for head shots already?? Methinks not.

First day of the year at the beach....item 1 on the to-do list clearly must involve burying ones' legs in the sand. Done and done.

We celebrated Daddy's birthday weekend in Provincetown, and spent some time visiting with the geese at the Cape Cod National Seashore (adjacent wetlands seen here). Not sure what she's putting in her mouth. Don't really want to know.

As always, delighted by life.

One small step for Eva, one big raspberry for the world.

Welcoming 2010

2010-02-20T06:02:00.000-08:00

We've spent the first month+ of 2010 getting down to business - both with Jeff's trip to Aspen to work the X-Games, and with Cat's decision to go "back to school", 1 class at a time. Eva got plenty of "work" done as well, getting her first real haircut AND her first visit to the dentist out of the way - in addition, of course, to the everyday work of playing hard. We managed to fit in opportunities to play with many good friends along the way - with bestie Trudie, of course, as well as during a fabulous visit with Jonas and Cleo (and their parents, of course, Jenna and Tarleton).

Hard at work creating "snow monster", though Eva then had trouble saying goodbye as the days passed and snow monster grew smaller...and smaller...and...

Hanging out around town with Cleo. Eva did find the side-by-side configuration of the double stroller a little disorienting at times, though quickly realized how cool it was to be tucked right next to a friend.

Riding Mama Duck and ducklings at the Public Garden with Jonas.

Taking in the Madonna exhibit at the MFA. I wish I could say this somehow heralded a general appreciation for fine art, but lets be honest - this was all about the giant stack of TV screens.

Princess time with Trudie!

A separate day of princess play. As one might guess, untold amounts of glitter can be found scattered all over the house (those princess dresses aren't sparkly on their own).

Big girl haircut! She took the responsibility very seriously.

Has anyone ever been as happy to be at the dentist as this little girl?

Princess Eva reigns in Norcal

2010-01-02T19:03:00.000-08:00

We traveled north in the middle of our winter California journey to visit Cat's family in Redwood City, Pleasanton and Santa Cruz, while catching up with a few old friends along the way.

Eva also indirectly helped to keep the Disney Store in the black this year after being coronated with an abundance of royal clothing and accessories, all of which she continues to be absolutely delighted by. Even now, days later, the common greeting "Hello, Eva!" can reliably prompt the matter-of-fact response "I not Eva, I princess." Us commoners can hopefully be forgiven for making such an error.

After a fabulous party with the entire K. family, we traveled northeast to visit the P-M house, then southwest to tour the Santa Cruz Boardwalk (or, what's open at the Boardwalk on a rainy evening in December) and to spend some time getting to know her Great-Grandpa BZ. We were then able to enjoy a little more quality hanging-out time with Grandma, Grandmama and Grandpapa before heading back south again.

Our little holiday elf, entertaining Grandmama and Grandpapa K.

Caught here admiring her royal ensemble, though the look does get a little complicated when one refuses to remove one's long-sleeved fairy shirt before putting on the dress.

All the ladies, including our littlest lady with a large piece of popcorn in her open mouth. Classy!

Casually trimming the tree, as a mermaid. Predictably, the "tail" did get in the way a bit.

As every modern princess knows, connectivity is key. Thankfully, her new phone seems to connect only to other princesses, which should hopefully cut down on calls from telemarketers.

Cuddles with Grandma K.

Enjoying the ducks, chickens and other assorted wild animals (Jon and Shayn included) with Aunt Sofia.

Always a lady, showing off her belly while out to dinner with the P-Ms.

Quality time with Grandpa P-M, unimpeded by a little pesky rain.

Christmas sunshine in La Mirada

2010-01-02T18:09:00.000-08:00

We escaped what would have been a very white Christmas by flying out to LAX on the 24th, where Eva was treated the next morning with a visit from Santa Claus! (Poppy unfortunately missed the visit, as he'd left for an early morning run to the store. Such bad timing!) We then proceeded to have a wonderful day, including a delicious dinner with the Ouelettes and dessert with Rick, Mimi and AJ.

We returned later in our journey to celebrate New Year's before flying back to Boston, our trip punctuated by several trips in glorious weather to the local playground, one critical visit to In-n-Out, and lots of quality time spent together with Grammy, Poppy and Tio Loco.

Eva meets St. Nick.

Apparently taking her balmy surroundings as a cue, Eva insisted upon a swimsuit as proper Christmas morning attire (after demanding the red velvet dress in the first picture be removed).

Delighted by her first gift of jewelry - from Daddy, of course.

Climbing trees in the park with Daddy and Tio Tod (good thing there were responsible adults around!)

Hard at work sorting tanbark with Poppy at the playground.

Touring the La Mirada playground with her new BFF, Tiana the frog (sorry, Trudie!)

Delighted by her new swing buddy (and her long-time swing pusher)

A rare sighting of the legendary Dancing Toddler before a stunning California sunset.

Yummy.

2009-12-09T19:23:00.000-08:00

Eva's been preparing for the holidays in proper fashion - entering the season with plenty of practice chowing down. We were delighted to join Eva's BFF Trudie (and her parents Beth and Tom, of course) for Thanksgiving dinner, where Eva both played and ate til she dropped.

We then spent the next weekend in Martha's Vineyard, our first-ever trip to "the island" (though no Obamas to be found in December during a nasty storm, alas) and had a lovely time. We've also found time here and there to fit in some early-winter hiking (during a few last unseasonably warm days) and serious playing at our local indoor playground.

Mugging for the camera with mommy in her new "tutu".

Eva at Thanksgiving, already anxious for the meal to start...and wearing the pearls she somehow conned off Trudie's grandma like a trophy.

Enjoying a little indoor pony ride on an otherwise-stormy November afternoon.

Is it possible to avoid the carnival food at a carnival? Eva would vote no. Besides, who doesn't love pizza??

Besides, look! She eats real food, too!

Look out!!! Braving the waters at Sharky's on MV.

Clearly rethinking a plan that seemed more appealing from inside our hotel room, where the wailing wind and freezing temp were less appreciable.

Enjoying a nice warm bath at the end of a long cold day.

Terrific Twos: Party #2, or Bounce House Attack!

2009-11-16T19:09:00.000-08:00

Eva was fully recovered and ready to par-tay well in time for her rescheduled birthday party on the 8th. And even more important, the bouncy house was still free as well! Worth every penny. The look on her face when she saw that giant inflatable room of fun was absolutely priceless.

Happily, most of Eva's best friends from daycare and otherwise were free for the 2nd party as well, making it a truly kid-tastic affair. Much sugar was consumed that day... sorry, other parents! We're guessing bedtimes might have been a bit tough that night.

The big party happened to fall as well at the beginning of a fabulous week+ with Grandma Kibbe and Bob, which saw us out on the town taking in the sights, in fall Boston weather both unseasonably lovely, and, alas, very seasonably not-so-lovely...the latter of which found us enjoying a tour of the North Shore from inside our car. Sure, it's no Freedom Trail, but at least we could all feel our toes by the end!

A dangerous quantity of sugar and spice all in one enclosed location.

Balloon!

My balloon.

Bounce house: round one.

Monster cake time! Note Eva looking dubiously at slices of HER cake going to all her friends...and maybe reassessing whether this big-party-thing might not be such a good idea.

Thankfully, we then moved on to present-opening time (where she of course needed the help of all her friends), when she settled upon being quite happy with having a big party after all.

Bounce house: round two. Watch out.

No, seriously! Watch out!

Feeling ferocious on a chilly afternoon in the North End.

Feeling less ferocious and more sassy after warming up at the Omni Parker House with Bob and Grandma K.

Happiness is a warm, cuddly toddler.

Terrific Twos: Party # 1

2009-11-16T18:50:00.000-08:00

Due to an unfortunate fever-producing bug going through the household, Eva's birthday party had to be postponed a week...but the upside of this was, of course, two parties! Our first party was a bit more little-person-free, but don't cry for Eva: she didn't hesitate to cover herself in cake and frosting, enjoy Poppy's face painting skills, and squeal repeatedly over her first way-fun toys and presents at Party #1.

Mmm...delicious. A whole lotta frosting; hold the cake.

Modeling the next big thing in foot creams: frosting. Her feet remain silky smooth.

Party time!

Giving three cheers for her new kitchen set from Grandpa P-M (opened post-bath, if the exposed belly and wet hair didn't tip you off).

Modeling a pair of 3-D glasses from Auntie Lauren.

Peekaboo!! from beneath her new quilt, courtesy of Great-Grandma Kibbe.

Ribbit

2009-11-16T18:39:00.000-08:00

For Halloween this year, Eva decided she would most like to be one of her very favorite animals: a froggie! She very dutifully greeted all our trick-or-treat houses with a polite "ribbit". Everyone knows polite froggies get more candy.

We were all so happy to have the chance to celebrate the above with Grammy and Poppy I., who visited Boston during the most beautiful leaf-peeping week of the fall.

Festive!

Enjoying a close-up view of the Green Monstah.

A sleepy but happy little frog.

Which is a brighter orange: Mr. Punkin, or mommy's hair?

Fall-tastic

2009-11-16T18:19:00.000-08:00

As followers of All About Eva may or may not have noticed, we've fallen a little behind in our blog-related activities...we could give a litany of excuses involving unfortunate viral illnesses, most fortunate visits from loved ones, and a few awesome parties, but we know all that really matters is that we make up for it PDQ. Therefore, onward!

We launched October with a visit to Drumlin Farm in Lincoln, where (very patient) sheep were poked in the nose and pumpkins were carefully selected, and embarked as well on a few outings dedicated only to high quality playing. Eva takes her job in this regard very seriously.

Making friends, influencing livestock.

Less enthusiastic than predicted at the HONK! festival in Somerville. (It really was fun, we swear! An inadequately-napped toddler is a harsh critic.)

Hard at "work" on Cambridge Common.

Yee-ha!

Goodbye, Summer

2009-10-05T18:11:00.000-07:00

Where did September go?? Before we knew it, amidst the whirlwind of Cat's new job, a few out-of-town trips for both work and play, and a whole lot of furious toddler play, an entire month passed by before we had the chance to blink.

We did, of course, find plenty of time to frequent a few local playgrounds, and catch up with some old friends.

Enjoying a beautiful afternoon at our favorite playground on the water in Cambridge.

Your eyes do not deceive you - Eva is actually hanging from the monkey bars without our assistance. She will totally be able to take Cat in arm wrestling any day now.

One-day sale - free baby with purchase of enormous flower pot!

Having a ball with her friend Lily.

Why hello! Peek-a-boo at a playground on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Modeling the latest in sunhat fashion on the water at the Duttons' on the Chesapeake.

Absolutely, Eva - that hat DOES suit Lula just so. And she clearly agrees!

Lauren and Phil were crazy enough - ahem, KIND enough - to allow Eva her first experience captaining a boat. She's clearly up for the task.

Who could have guessed that Eva loves drumming?

Lazy summer days

2009-08-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

Enjoying the sand sculptures (and one delicious finger) at Revere Beach.

Showing off our sassy headband.

Daddy can be thanked for creating this fetching (har har) accessory, which Eva then refused to remove for several hours (a tantrum might have been involved towards the end).

Taking the babies for a stroll. Around the house. In a swimsuit. (No, we weren't going swimming that day - it was a purely fashion-related choice.)

Canoeing on Spot Pond, in front of our fabulous newly-discovered picnicking island.

A happy girl with cheeks full of tasta.

Exploring the wilds of this uninhabited island (in the middle of Spot Pond, which is itself in the middle of densely-populated greater Boston...but still, quite adventurous! Really!)

Another nontraditional fashion choice. Anyone can wear shades right-side-up. But upside down? Truly inspired.

Plotting some sort of trouble...

Eva's first time swimming in a real pool...and definitely not her last!

Sunning herself after a long day spent hard at play.

The sun returns!

2009-07-12T08:26:00.001-07:00

The start of July has finally brought with it the return of that big, glowing, hot thing in the sky, and Cat and Jeff had to fish out their sunglasses for the first time this summer. Yay! Our first officially gorgeous weekend of the year fell on the 4th of July, which felt entirely appropriate. The I. family was lucky enough to watch the Boston fireworks from up close and personal at their friends' Keith and Kelly's house on Comm. Ave - a rooftop view that couldn't be beat.

Wreaking havoc at Old Navy.

Enjoying a lazy morning with one of her favorite Babies.

Attempting to scale a picnic table at the zoo playground - wearing sassy bib as fashion accessory (sure to be all the rage next season!)

A happy pair.

Rainy days

2009-07-01T13:54:00.000-07:00

With a record-breaking grayest June in Boston's past 100 years, we've had few chances to get outside and enjoy the summer. Happily, we had an opportunity to skip town for a weekend to see our friends in Ithaca and then Toronto, with a stop at Niagara Falls on the way home - at which time we discovered the sun really does continue to shine (just not in eastern Mass.)!

Definitely up to something.

Toddler in the mist

Looking out toward the Falls.

Keeping this strange whale-like creature in line, at a playground on the shore of Lake Ontario

Snack time - delish!

The closest we've come yet to a beach day this summer, at Revere Beach last weekend (note sweatshirt and ever-present gray sky)

And introducing...Eva's big girl bed! (hastily procured after a swan dive from the crib by a certain enterprising small person)

Our little fashion plate

2009-06-07T19:06:00.000-07:00

So it seems as though Eva has already developed a strong sense of style. One hears tell of the lengendary tantrums toddlers are capable of, so we thought we were prepared. However, we were most definitely not prepared for the fact that the most fearsome Eva-tantrums are all related to clothing- or accessory-related disagreements.

Herein, a sampling of her most recent ensembles:

Most definitely too cool for school. (In case you're wondering, she's an indoor-shades kind of girl.)

What season is it, again?

One particularly fearsome tantrum was prompted by mommy daring to remove this particular accessory to - gasp! - wash her hair.

Her latest favorite, inspired by a canoe ride on the Mystic River. Any why *should* she need to remove it to, say, get in her car seat, or eat dinner, or take a bath? Who knows when that flash flood will hit? (In this shot - lounging on her ladybug beanbag chair. Another flood-risky activity.)

Sassy.

Action girl!

Cuddles.

Princess Eva (It was only a matter of time...)

2009-05-25T19:37:00.000-07:00

May has shown off lots of beautiful weather...and flowers...and wildlife. We've had lots of excursions, much to Eva's delight. Last week she was invited to a princess party, and was indeed dazzling. Except when she filled a plastic bowl with gravel and proceeded to eat it with a spoon in front of the other (very impressed) Princesses. Make of that what you will....

Princess Photo #1 (pretty in pink)

Princess Photo #2 (ready for action!)

Princess Photo #3 (daddy just couldn't stop including princess photos...)

"Admiring" the flowers at Rockport with her BFF, Trudie.

Bathtub style by Eva.

Running, running running. Where will Eva goat???

Eva & Jonas Get Rowdy

2009-05-25T19:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been so long...a full post is on the way. In the meantime, here's some of the action from Jonas' visit a few weeks back. High energy, anyone?

Spring has sprung!

2009-05-04T19:25:00.000-07:00

With just a couple 80-90 degree days, following months of barely brushing the above-freezing mark (only exaggerating a little!), spring has most definitely come to Boston. While this means Cat is on a steady diet of daily Claritin, it also makes for some pretty gorgeous days of roaming around the city. Eva is quite pleased.

Who's the happiest duckling of them all?

Yes, that is Eva, actually kissing this brass duck on the head. We've heard rumors she's thinking of trading in her human parents for Mrs. Duckling (clearly a superior parent - look how well organized those little duckies are behind her?).

Trying to catch raindrops in her mouth. We offered her a cup of water, but we swear she muttered something about "too easy" before continuing to stretch out on these public steps on Newbury Street.

A brief break in the BOB stroller.

Mmm, tulips! (Either that, or she's mocking the tulips.....tough call.)

Admiring yet another tree in the Public Garden heavy with flowers.

Our little commuter, ready for rush hour.

Chicken dance

2009-04-08T12:53:00.001-07:00

For further elaboration on the complex relationship that evolved over an hour or so between Miss E. and her new chicken friend at Drumlin Farm, a brief film:

In like a lion, out like a lamb

2009-04-07T19:20:00.000-07:00

First of all - apologies for being shamefully lax in our posting recently - where did all of March go?? Wow!

Now, on to spring! The last 6 weeks or so have been a whirlwind of late-winter snowstorms, early-spring thunderstorms, and a too-quick trip to Southern California thrown in amongst it all.

A hair-raising experience (har-har) at the Museum of Science in Boston.

Heeeeeeere's Eva!

Story time with daddy.

On the hunt for a new friend at Drumlin Farm in Lincoln, MA

Showing off her new boots - BOOTS. (One of Eva's favorite words AND articles of clothing.)

Taking on the trail!

Eva Out & About

2009-02-27T19:25:00.000-08:00

After returning from our vacation to two feet of snow, we've been patiently waiting for spring. And as the weather gets warmer, Eva gets speedier and "talkier." Her preferred mode of transport is running...while yelling. She's also developed strong clothing preferences. Blue fleece sweater please!

Her first taste of ice cream (quickly followed by her 2nd through 10th tastes).

The lack of beach weather didn't keep her from repeatedly trying to get into the ocean.

Living it up at the playground.

In hot pursuit of "doggy" (not pictured).

The family enjoying Grandma Betty's "bear rug."

Big girl rides horsey!

Cruisin II, High Seas Boogaloo

2009-01-31T18:07:00.000-08:00

Well, it hasn't snowed around here for a few days...but it did rained for a few hours before deep freezing Now everything is solid ice...more reason to post a few more shots from the cruise!

Water baby, err, water toddler.

Small girl, big ship.

On deck with Grammy & Poppy (aka "Ah-Oooh")

Learning the rules with Tio Loco...

Relaxing after tackling some strong waves in St. Martin.

The whole crew.

Outsmarted by a penguin (almost).

Cruisin'.... Part I

2009-01-25T18:26:00.000-08:00

We just returned from an absolutely fabulous week of sun, swimming, and loved ones, having taken off on an eastern Caribbean cruise with Grammy and Poppy I. and Tio Loco (a.k.a. Tod). Eva was particularly taken with her "wa-wa"-view cabin. We have since returned to 2 feet of snow and the sub-freezing temps of a Boston winter, but cherish the memories of warmer days!

The view from our Miami hotel room over Biscayne Bay, with our very own cruise ship in the background! (Yes, it's that big. Wow.)

Wa-wa! (As viewed from the position where Eva spent countless minutes over the ensuing week.)

But seriously, guys....have you seen all this wa-wa??

Who let Eva into the casino? Everyone knows she doesn't know when to fold 'em!

Enjoying the baby pool on board.

Someone's been having too much fun and passed out in her lunch - party foul!

Enjoying the rock wall - Eva's turn is coming up soon!

More to come soon...

Technical Difficulties

2009-01-05T19:03:00.000-08:00

Our apologies while we undergo a temporary blackout on new posts - our camera is currently MIA, and we're slowly coming around to the realization it's probably not temporary. As soon as we find ourselves a worthy replacement we'll be right back with new pics... promise!

In the meantime..... Happy '09!!!

A Very Budgie Christmas!

2008-12-25T06:54:00.000-08:00

A rare photo of the elusive Eva Claus!

Yes, Eva got a pony...thanks Grammy & Poppy!

Cuddling with her new "Baby Nurse" doll...

Eva LOVED her first snowman. Apparently he left town during last night's rainstorm and will come back soon. That's our story & we're sticking to it!

Eventually, she found her way to the tree!

Eva Feelin' Keene

2008-12-25T06:37:00.000-08:00

In mid-December, Eva decided it was time to visit Jessica & Jeremey at their new home in Keene, NH. And what an awesome home it is! We had fun constructing an avante-garde Xmas tree, drinking the world's best hot chocolate, and generally carousing...

We drove through quite an ice storm to get to Keene...it was like this for hundreds of square miles. Beautiful...but quite deadly.

Eva enjoying tree time with Jessica & Jeremy

After de-icing the swings, Eva was cleared for take off.

What is all this cold stuff???

Eva is Weird...

2008-12-24T08:46:00.000-08:00

...and we can prove it:

A Norcal Thanksgiving

2008-12-04T18:43:00.000-08:00

We then completed our Tour de California (er, or at least de the greater Bay Area) in Redwood City with Grandma and the rest of the K. family. Eva was delighted to discover far more toys at Grandma's house than she has at home! In addition to several parties (including Great-Grandpa's 80th birthday and the T-Giving feast) we also found time for exploring Lemos Farm in Half Moon Bay, Moss Beach and the tide pools, the San Jose Childrens Discovery Museum, and the local playgound at Stafford Park.

Eva was delighted with her new horse (an exact replica of Mama's horsie when she was E.'s size!)

Turkey meatball? Pleeeease?

Someone enjoyed her Thanksgiving meal so much, she decided to wear it (so unlike her!).

Happy times with the bis-abuelos

Mom! Take a look at these crazy creatures!

The question is: how much sand can I get in my mouth before mama notices?

Exploring the Moss Beach tide pools

Seriously - take a look at this tushie! Admire this tushie!

Having way too much fun at the Childrens Discovery Museum

Enjoying a sunny California December day at the park with Great-Aunt Julie

Eva tolerated about 60 seconds in this outfit - just long enough to snap a pic of our cute holiday elf!

A More than Pleasant Time in Pleasanton!

2008-12-04T18:13:00.000-08:00

For the first part of our holiday trip out to California, we spent several days with Grandpa P-M and the fam at their new place in Pleasanton. Eva had a great time getting to know her aunts and uncles (she found Uncle Shayn's hair particularly fascinating) though toward the end of our time together started to feel a little competitive over possession of Aunt Sofia's toys!

Someone enjoyed her black beans a little more than was socially appropriate.

Magic baby!

Eva was dubiously approving of Lilo (or was it Stitch?) the chinchilla.

Who loves slides? Particularly slides too windy and steep for a 12-month-old to safely enjoy?

Swing time!

Officially a toddler

2008-12-03T19:49:00.000-08:00

First of all - sorry for the delay in posting! Life gets a little chaotic sometimes, y'know?

A few weeks back, our very own babe became a toddler in all senses of the word - both by passing the 1-year-on-earth (ex utero) mark, and by figuring out how to, well, toddle all. over. the. place. We celebrated with - what else - a baby party! Much good cheer and cake was plastered on the faces of Eva's guests, as well as into the carpet, floor, furniture... you get the idea.

Then, to add to the birthday surprises, Jenna and Tarleton came into town for a surprise visit with their main man, Jonas, who seems to have (possibly overnight? no?) exited toddler-hood himself, moving straight into boy-hood! Whoa! Funny how these changes just keep coming...

Great party and all...but where's the cake?

Happy birthday baby with frosting in hair and turkey meatball in hand

Jenna, Tarleton and Jonas joining us for a stroll in downtown Boston

Making friends with the starfish at the New England Aquarium

Guess who put daddy's hat on all by herself?

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

In the last week, we celebrated Eva's first Halloween, as well as a little early B-day celebration with Grammy and Poppy I., who were in town visiting E.'s new home. We misplaced the baby during the Halloween festivities, but a large ladybug flew in and kept us company until she decided to re-emerge.

A Bruin in training. (and no, this wasn't Halloween!)

Look what the lobster boat brought in - freshly caught baby!

Mama is now more used to this sight than she used to be...and she can't help that Eva LOVES it, every time.

Watch out, seagulls! You're on notice!

Slinky, slinky - fun for a girl, a boy, or a ladybug.

Trick or treating (an admittedly limiting outing for our first year out)

Early birthday cake - guess who ended up with a blue tongue afterwards?

A day at the beach with Grammy & Poppy.

One (+ a few) small step(s) for babykind...

2008-10-19T19:06:00.000-07:00

So, how long from this point to running laps throughout the house? We're up to 12 hands-free steps so far...

(Sorry about the sideways view!)

Eva at 11 months

2008-10-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

Eva just had the best time getting to know her great-grandparents, Gordon and Betty, during their visit out from California. We spent time visiting Boston, riding the T, exploring Winthrop and Malden, and discovering a certain tiny Italian restaurant that we will definitely be frequenting in the future.

Sporting her sassy new chapeau from G-Grandma Kibbe.

"Garcon!"

Eva decided she enjoyed playing inside boxes so much during the move, we can't stop her! Here, she found a mostly-full diaper box and decided this would be her new play space - er, office - for at least, oh, 20 minutes or so.

"I told you to hold my calls!"

The leaves are starting to turn...time to pull out the puffy jackets!

"Where's the moose??" (I suppose you had to be there. Though, even if you were, you still might not get it...unless you're Eva, of course, who thought this was HIGHlarious!)

Taking a stroll on the new Rose F. Kennedy Greenway (former site of I-93) opening celebration.

Showing off all those new choppers.

La Casa de Eva

2008-10-05T19:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we've been a bit remiss in posting pics of the new digs. While it's a bit embarrassing to admit, we never quite got around to taking pictures ourselves, so we're going to borrow the pics taken by Gordon (Eva's "bis-abuelo") this past weekend during their wonderful trip out to visit. (Maybe we'll even - eventually - get around to posting pics of the inside someday!)

Street-level view (including the driveway of death - at least to bumpers and fenders. Jetta still isn't speaking to Cat.)

A view of our backyard, including parking, shed, and grass (with Eva's sandbox in the distance!) - taken from the back of the house.

Another shot of the house - from the back this time. As you can probably tell from this and the other shots, there are few particular overly friendly trees in our yard...the professional tree trimmers are paying us a visit tomorrow, to the relief of our roof!

Eva the Wheelie Queen

2008-09-21T18:56:00.000-07:00

Turns out Eva LOVES wearing a helmet...who knew? Today was her first-ever bike ride...we took her to "Hub on Wheels", a big charity ride that shuts down most of Boston for a few hours. Eva had a great view of the Charles River, Storrow Drive, and all the Boston landmarks...she was laughing and yelling for 9 of the 10 miles before passing out in her seat.

With Mama in her "Ibert" bike seat.

Eva would yell "Yeah yeah!" before every downhill

Relaxing downtown...

Post-race potassium.

And sometimes after a hard day on the bike, you just have to drive yourself home...

Speaking of home, this is Eva's favorite porch pastime!

Moving time!

2008-09-01T18:27:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago we loaded all our earthly belongings into a U-Haul - again - and moved to our very first non-rented house! We've had a little time to settle in, and are already finding ourselves a little overwhelmed by the seemingly endless list of projects - both little and big - we'd like to take on. Is there such a thing as home improvement ADD?

A few highlights thus far:

Moving Day! Now which box was the baby in, again...?

Baby summit! Lily and Eva meld minds (as Amy and Cat run interference when necessary).

Enjoying our new backyard - and sandbox! - on one of the last happy days of summer.

Have we mentioned Eva has started feeding herself? Yeah, we've had second thoughts about it too.

Enjoying the new bathtub.

Eva's learned a few things in her many months of life, including, now, how to give - and take!

Fun with Moving

2008-08-10T12:08:00.001-07:00

As most of our friends and loved ones may already know, the I. family just bought its very first house, and is preparing to move in this coming week (ack!). As intense as that sounds - and is - packing with a 9 month old baby has its unexpected pleasures...

Flower Baby

2008-08-07T18:45:00.000-07:00

This past weekend brought us to Portland OR, City of Roses, for Natasha and Tom's rose-tastic (and beautiful!) wedding, where Eva was the Baby of Honor (more commonly known as the Flower Girl) in a red wagon and a basket of flowers - most of which did NOT end up in her mouth.

We then visited the Portland Rose Garden, Japanese Garden (both of which Eva slept through) and Zoo, which Eva woke up for and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of - in particular when she got to touch her very first goat! (The frantic dancing and waving was almost too cute for spectators to bear!) Was it because she found a kindred spirit in one who loves eating random inedible objects almost as much as she does?

At the wedding brunch: "Excuse me! I'd like to make a toast, please!"

Eva in her chariot.

Wearing white at another girl's wedding? The nerve!

Is someone a little too jet-lagged to party at the reception?

Eva makes a new friend at the Oregon Zoo.

Giving her papa an appropriately disapproving look for making this picture happen (also at the Zoo).

Admiring the Zen garden and sand rakings at the Portland Japanese Garden.

A Strange Critter

2008-08-06T19:49:00.000-07:00

This one requires no comment.

Joie de Eva, part deux

2008-07-21T19:33:00.000-07:00

We had so many great Eva moments from the past few weeks, we couldn't help but be uber-self-indulgent and put up two posts in one night!

After a couple weeks of sweltering in the summer humidity (and a few day trips to the beaches of Gloucester and the banks of the Mystic River, with varying degress of success), we decided to pack up the family unit and take off for the cool breezes of Vermont and a distinctly not-snowy Mount Snow, where Miss E was regaled by the sights and sounds of many very serious mountain bikers at the USA Cycling national championships; she has already requested her very first bike, and scoffs when reminded that she needs to learn how to walk before learning how to ride.

Eva discovers her next great love on Cape Anne: sand.

What, me, eat sand? Never!

Eva, Papa, and her ever-present companion - the tongue.

Upon reflection, it's no wonder our foam-encased baby didn't love her first canoe ride...

I'll devour you all, puny mortals!

Joie de Eva

2008-07-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

Eva celebrated her first 4th of July with a visit from Emi and Brian - she was the perfect hostess, showing off the local attractions and bringing them to the big fireworks display on the Charles River, and then only sleeping through half of the show (and of course, it was the "Rascal Flatts, brought to you by Craig Ferguson and countless sponsors" half, not the "big lound boom + Boston Pops" half.).

The girls hit the (Revere) beach.

Is Eva really that happy, or is it all the blueberry ale she was sneaking from her parents?

My camera - gimme!

Look how well trained I already have them!

Eva'd like to give the Green Monster a run for its money.

Already learning to ride the T (with road warrior face in place)

Back at home, reminding "El Jefe" who's really boss.

Sea legs

2008-06-29T20:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a fabulously generous invite from our friend Meghan, Eva was able to take her second trip to Cape Cod this weekend, and this time things were a little balmier than they were back in March. While she's still (appropriately) intimidated by the force and presence of the ocean, she did allow her feet to be dipped into the water once or twice, and of course spent most of the rest of her beach time trying to eat sand.

She has also learned the art of the wave (as in "hi there!", not as in awkward-ballgame-group-movement-attempt), which results in winning over more fans than ever while out on the town.

Donuts?

Feet in wet sand - serious progress!

Donuts!

Had enough yet, mister??

Donuts.

Summer Baby

2008-06-22T19:45:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been a whirlwind - before we knew it, weeks had passed since our last post! In that time, Eva has been racking up the new skills like crazy - she now has two brand-new teeth (the better to eat your shoulder with, dear mama), and has moved right past working on her crawling skills in order to devote all available time to standing, and even - in its currently unsophisticated state - walking. We're already brainstorming about babyproofing and shopping for her next carseat...it feels as though before we know it, she'll be asking to borrow the car.

Beach baby, enjoying the sun and sand in Revere.

Hanging on every word. (What will Judy and Paul do next?!?)

Why hello! You're here to liberate me from this silly playpen, aren't you?

Squeaky clean baby (for at least 5 minutes).

Eva's convinced that if she tries hard enough, she will get food out of her spoon.

A whole new view from the crib!

California Dreamin

2008-06-01T19:58:00.001-07:00

Eva has had quite the eventful series of weeks! First, hiking through an Audobon reserve in northern Mass.; then for a whirlwind trip to the Bay Area; then back home, to visit with auntie Lauren for the first time since her birthday (er, birth week). We'll let the pictures take over at this point, as we have too many to share!

Eva's new favorite snack - celery! Who could have guessed?

Jet-setting baby

At the new P-M compound (it's true - soon to be complete with bocce ball!) in Pleasanton.

Eva inconsistently responds to "cheese!"

And continues to be a less-than-cooperative subject

Happy flying baby!

Eva thinks the "baby bag" that auntie Natasha gave mom as a gift fits her just right.

Eva's Adventures...Extra Bonus Edition!

2008-05-11T18:54:00.000-07:00

"The Eva" has been very busy these past few weeks. Dancing at Kowloon Klub at Jessica & Jeremy's co-30 birthday party; hiking in the woods while growling like a puma; learning to crawl; learning to say "da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da-da"; and winning friends all over the metro Boston area. And today, waking Mom up early to celebrate Mother's Day.

To keep Eva's many fans up to date, we've added TWO videos and extra photos to this post. Keep the comments coming...it's good motivation for us to blog regularly!

Waking Mom up early for Mother's Day...so sweet!

Watch out for that scary cat-like creature!

Busting a move at Kowloon with Jessica

Face-off with Jeremy...could she take him???

I love hiking!

What? Can't you see I'm busy?

Lounging on her new custom-made quilt from Grandma Betty : )

Showing no mercy for the "ball-in-a-ball" and doing a little crawling (she's much better at crawling this week).

Eva scaring the wildlife. Yes, those fearsome sounds are coming from that tiny baby.

Marathon Day!

2008-04-24T18:38:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Boston's love of city-wide events and gratuitous holidays, the I. family was able to spend this past Monday - known in most other parts of the country as a "work day" - celebrating the Massachussetts-only holiday known as Patriots Day (which is not, as one might assume, as a tribute to the beloved hometown football team - at least not officially). To most locals, this means a) watching the Sox, or b) watching the Boston Marathon! We opted for the latter, and so Eva spent one of our first truly beautiful spring days of the year with a front-row seat as the Marathon-ers rounded their final bend through the Back Bay to the finish line.

The weekend's gorgeous weather also afforded many opportunities to take our new sweet set of wheels - the Bob Revolution ATS (that's all-terrain stroller, thank you), a holiday gift from Eva's Grandpa P-M and family - out for a few spins; not surprisingly, Eva is a big fan of facing forward and seeing the world, though it may mean our days of napping in the stroller are over.

Baby in the lead!

Probably not the primary intended use for the Thunder Stick...

Mine, all mine!

Feeling sassy in her new ride.

Belly Attack!

Eva-lution

2008-04-17T19:16:00.000-07:00

It's been almost six months since Eva joined the scene, and by now she's almost tripled in size. Weighing in at over 16 pounds, she crawls (mostly backwards, and usually face-first), she rolls, she bounces, laughs, grabs, holds, watches, yells and sits. So much action, with so much more to come! Here's an update of the last couple of weeks, with a Day 2 picture thrown in just for perspective...

Two days old and already a Lert.

161 days old and having a ball...

Props for propping up!

At the BBQ joint with the girls...

Deeply unconscious.

Looking far too cool for school (but never to cool to drool).

Wondering what Gordon's up to...

The world-famous El Rollo manuever (click twice to play).

Cape Cod, Uncle Tod, & EVACADO!

2008-04-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

It's been an eventful few weeks for The Eva. She travelled to Cape Cod and laid eyes on the ocean for the first time. She stared and stared, apparently wondering what the heck IS that thing?

The next weekend she got to meet her Uncle Tod, who was at least as fasinating, and lots more fun. Those two had many giggles together. Eva can't wait until he gets back from Chile so she can get more belly laughs and hopefully drool on his forehead again...

And during Tod's visit, Eva had her first food (we knew she was ready because lately she won't stop staring obsessively at our food during meals...while licking her lips and making chewing noises). Her first meal...AVOCADO (EVACADO)...mixed with a bit of milk. No adaptation period was necessary, she ate it like a hungry badger and licked the spoon. Next stop...banana?

I'm pretty sure I can work this thing myself, thanks.

Tod & Eva...Cual cabeza es mas grande???

Enjoying the springtime Boston sunshine (nice photo, Tod!).

Cape Cod...baby style.

Evacado#1...

... and Evacado #2 (click twice to play)

Bounce Bounce Bounce Bounce Bounce

2008-03-16T18:19:00.000-07:00

The big news in Eva's life this week was the acquisition of a Baby Bouncer. This might seem like a small deal to you, but to Eva it was one of the great moments in life. She was smiling and bouncing within seconds of installation, and she would bounce for hours if we'd only let her. Mom and Dad are pleased too, because we get to cook dinner with BOTH hands, which is far easier and safer for everyone. All hail the BABY BOUNCER!

Click twice to watch the bouncing.

Life is good!

Portrait of a baby (with rattle).

Pretending to be angelic.

2 Feet High and Rising

2008-03-09T18:32:00.000-07:00

Eva had her 4 month checkup last week, and while she is still angry about that second round of vaccinations, we enjoyed learning that she's all of 24 inches tall and over 14.5 lbs chubby.

We also enjoyed a too-brief visit from Cat's dad Steve, on his way home from Geneva; he regaled us with stories of skiing on glaciers and sipping Swiss espresso, resulting in little-to-no sympathy for all the hard work he did on his "business trip".

Steve and grandbaby

Queen E holds court from her new throne

Family portrait

Happy girls!

Our budding filmmaker

Road Trip!

2008-02-23T16:52:00.001-08:00

Eva came along for a trip to Ithaca last weekend, to visit Jenna, Tarleton, and her first Valentine, Jonas (though at almost 2 yrs old, he is an older man...). She also attended her first (er, more accurately, her parents' first in awhile) adult party, a tenure party with a 50s cocktail theme. Mama and Papa had fun playing dress up in Jenna's closet, and all were sad to leave Monday morning.

Mmm, delicious hand.

Guess who passed out early at the party?

Who cares about a book when there's a camera nearby?

Why hello, gorgeous!

Dressed up in Grammy's hand-knit cute suit

Eva Gets a Feva!

2008-02-17T10:15:00.000-08:00

Eva had her first fever this week, and spent lots of time at the doctor...she kept smiling through (most of) the process and handled things much better than her Papa did! She's fine now and having a great time on the road with us in Ithaca...more on that in the next post!

Eva's first pair of jeans.... thanks Aunt Linda!

In her ruffle "hat" and having social hour with Mama....

Belly of Champions!

Our little drunken sailor (click twice to play).

Beginning Febevauary

2008-02-03T13:58:00.000-08:00

NOTE: We've been trying to publish this post with a video for the past week now, all without success (or video). We'll put up a new post soon, and in the meantime here's what we were saying a week ago...

It's been a warm couple of weeks by Boston standards. All the snow has melted in the past few days, and we've been taking advantage by hiking with Eva. She loves the trees! Her daycare is going great...all of the toddlers have made her their Queen because she's the smallest. They dance and sing for her to keep her entertained.

On the trail.

The passenger.

Early morning...guess who woke up first?

A brief chat.

Back to school

2008-01-27T18:38:00.000-08:00

Eva spent the last week of "winter vacation" (a.k.a. mama's maternity leave) getting better at napping, smiling, and all-around cuting.

Showing off her hand-made hat from Michelle and her "sock-shoes" from Micheline.

Peaceful baby, in her "cute-stronaut" jacket

Despite her inability to stay awake once she's in it, Eva's feelings about the carseat have changed little since their first meeting when leaving the hospital...

Eva seems less than enthusiastic about Alan's head as a new mode of transportation.

Who's in love with the camera?

Pudgie McPlumpson

2008-01-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

Ms. Eva just keeps getting plumper and plumper. Even better, she has started sleeping all the way through the night (sometimes). And when she's fed and rested, she's having a great time!

Life is great!

More donuts please.

Did I mention that life is great?

Eva and Momma.

Eva and Poppa.

Enjoying some quality "belly time"...

More Eva than Ever

2008-01-13T13:53:00.000-08:00

While some might start the new year off with resolutions of losing weight, our little babe seems to have the opposite goal. Sporting a sassy second chin and an increasingly round face, as well as a few extra inches of height (er, length?) she's already outgrowing her tiny baby clothes. Is 10 weeks too soon to lament how quickly they grow up?

(questionably) tasteful naked baby shot. But look at that belly!

From the looks of this picture, one would have no way of knowing how much blood, sweat and tears it takes to get this girl to fall asleep (refuses to miss a thing!).

"My, how you do go on! We will look back on this moment with great fondness."

Eva, enjoying her sweet view on another hike in the Fells.

Deep thoughts, by Eva I.

Eva: still with love for the mobile.

Ringing in "The Ocho"

2008-01-06T13:28:00.000-08:00

Eva spent the last few days of her very first calendar year with Grandpa and his family, including her aunt Sofia, who found this tiny new niece to be quite fascinating. After some Boston sightseeing and snowman-building, we said goodbye, only to celebrate the start of the new year a few short hours later; Eva hit the Tufts college scene on top of the university library for the big countdown, which happened to offer excellent views of the Boston skyline and the city's fireworks display over Boston Harbor.

Showing off her party hat

Teaching grandbaby to dance

A friendly neighborhood snowman we happened across...

...And with the snowman we actually made.

Showing off her new hat, a gift from Ann, James and Lucy, in one of her spacier moments.

Christmas Eva

2008-01-01T11:48:00.000-08:00

Cat's brother Shayn has been our honored guest for Chirstmas and New Years...the three of us had a jolly time with our little Eva Claus (she sees you when your sleeping, she makes sure you're awake...). The bests gifts by far were the smiles!

A bowl full of jelly

Uncle Shayn gives Eva the treatment

Telling her what we want for Christmas...

Jolly!

Christmas cheer...

Smiley Pants

2007-12-23T17:04:00.000-08:00

Eva has been giving out smiles to the lucky all week long. She is now very interested in EVERYTHING going on around her, and deeply resents being taken away from the action. She is recovering nicely from her very first bout of rhinovirus (aka common cold) and making up for it by eating nonstop, and of course dancing to her fancy new mobile...check the video to learn the latest moves.

"Vegas! We're going to Vegas tonight!"

"An excellent point...I find you quite charming."

Endowed with Chilean woolen garb, courtesy of brother Tod.

Happy happy joy joy!

Girls gone wild.

Dancing to the new & improved mobile (click twice to play).

Winter Wonderland

2007-12-16T09:41:00.001-08:00

As Boston received its first major delivery of snow for the season, Jeff's parents had the opportunity to experience what real Boston traffic can offer. The fresh foot of powder gave us a White earlyChristmas for our holiday dinner with the I.'s, where Eva decided to give everyone big gummy smiles for gifts.

Who needs toys when you can have endless fun with mama's fingers?

Reading time: this week Brown Bear Brown Bear, next week Dostoevsky

Who's ready for a blizzard?

What is that thing in my face again? No pictures, please!

Giving Grammy a little lap dance

Strrrrrretch!

Eva Out & About

2007-12-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

With a little help & transportation from her folks, Eva is discovering the great big world. Right now her favorite things are sleeping, eating and moving. Holding still is not on her list. Recent highlights include a visit from Derek & Jane, her first-ever ski trip to Okemo, VT (she loves fresh diapers and fresh powder), and getting to meet Grandpa Joe and Grandma Betty! Below are some pics from these exciting times AND a short video of Eva enjoying some fine music : )

Eva on film! (click to play)

Hello Grandpa!

Another pint please!

Good times with Derek & Jane...

What is all this cold white stuff and why has mom dragged me into it?!

On our own

2007-12-02T14:23:00.000-08:00

Now that grandma is back in S.F., Eva and her parents have been left on their own to figure things out (explaining the brief delay in getting back to blog posting!). Further, Eva has set out to singlehandedly dispel the myth of babies spending most of their time asleep, to her parents' sleepless chagrin. She also went on her first hike this past week, where Mom discovered that hiking with Eva in tow isn't so very different - from a coordination perspective - from hiking in her third trimester. Luckily, the trails chosen were relatively safe for foot-view-less travel.

Jeff checks to make sure she's still in there...

Sheesh, a little personal space, mom!

Hooray, a non-traumatic bath!

See? That wasn't so bad after all.

Another discovery this week - Eva LOVES her new dance partner - er, mobile.

Again, the magic of the mobile. Par-tay!

Eva's First Turkey Day

2007-11-23T15:16:00.000-08:00

Eva really went overboard, loading her plate with more turkey, gravy, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry and gravy than anyone else at the table. Which might explain the extra chin she's been sporting in the past 24 hrs...

Sporting her sassy holiday outfit

Baby adrift

Eva's looking a little skeptical...

Pretending to be angelic

Mmm... tryptophan.

Eva & Friends

2007-11-20T21:19:00.000-08:00

She's getting bigger (almost 7lbs) and better every day. She loves receiving visitors and getting cards and letter from her many admirers : )

Assessing Jenna & Tarleton's love letter...

Making sure her hair looks pretty for Uncle "Movember" Andy Vanica.

Getting a big hug from Auntie Julie.

Quality time with Snowy the Bear.

On the town

2007-11-15T06:10:00.000-08:00

Getting a little stir crazy, Eva has taken to regular outings around town in one of her two preferred modes of transportation, the sling or the stroller, both of which prompt her to immediately fall asleep. She's also been spending more time awake and has been checking out her new toy collection - she still hasn't figured out how to make her hands work to hold them, but she seems to find their mere existence within her field of vision fascinating.

Not knowing what to make of her new Maryland crab (thanks Lauren!)

Guess who already doesn't fit in her newborn socks?

Eva's new favorite spot for a nap (= anywhere the sling can carry her)

Is that really comfortable?

Sassy baby

Eva's Sweet Ride

2007-11-11T11:37:00.001-08:00

Eva took a ride on her new swing (a generous gift from Grandma) for the first time today and didn't quite know what to make of it. She spent most of her time in the seat looking mildly concerned, but in a quiet contemplative sort of way. Regardless, it wasn't an outright veto, which was good news for her sleep-deprived parents.

Eva's First Week Comes to a Close

2007-11-08T20:30:00.000-08:00

Last night Eva was the center of attention at her mom's modest birthday party, though she made a statement by refusing to sample the sushi spread (someone was making up for 9 months of lost time!).

The last few days have also continued to add to Eva's list of firsts. She went out on the town for the first time, indulging in a little retail therapy at Babies R Us. She was then lucky (?) enough to experience her first non-professional bath, the product of which included a lot of cute nekkid baby pictures for her parents and one very angry (but clean) baby.

Mmm...delicious Baby Maki

Jessica, doing an excellent job of not looking terrified that she'll drop the baby.

Eva confirms that Alan and Andy's birthday present is as delicious as it looks.

Saved!

Eva's Relocation

2007-11-06T15:09:00.000-08:00

Last night the hospital decided we could bring our new package home. Packing her up and introducing her to her new digs was an adventure, and one from which she's still recovering - she had just started to figure things out, and we had to go and move her. It's been a surreal experience for mom and dad to come back to their home, looking the same as it always did - except with tiny new baby as a roommate.

One last pose in the hospital room

Registering her disapproval of our final carseat choice

Sleeping soundly her first night on her new bed