Hey Gabe, I think you’re cute and stuff

This little guy is 9 months old now.  We love him to pieces.  His charming smile makes me literally shake my head and smile with my mouth closed.  Yeah, I’m pretty sure he’ll be a heart breaker someday.

It’s been a new experience for me…raising a baby in South America, but I’ve learned so much about going with the flow, slowing down, and just doing my best - forgetting the rest.

He scoots everywhere, but he’s starting to figure out that he can get up on all fours.  I’ve been a little worried about having all hard floors (with the exception of our rug), but he’s handling it like a champ.

Like most little guys, he loves loves loves to eat.  My girls were Gerber babies for the most part, but down here I don’t have that option, and that’s okay, I don’t think I’d have it any other way.  (To all you mommies that have made your baby food homemade with each child from the beginning, I say, ‘you’re amazing.’)  Yes, it can be kind of a pain to cook, blend, and freeze every ounce of food that goes into his tummy, but it’s natural, healthy, and he loves it.  It’s been fun to try out new foods, too, that I never would have thought of before, like avocados, watermelon, and eggplant (seriously).  The variety has been fun.

Basically, I can’t really imagine not having our Gabe around.  He keeps us on our toes, and I love his sweet way. 

Happy Easter everyone!

Ballet & Bangs

Carlie Joy is growing up right before my eyes.  She looks a little taller to me every day, AND she’s almost 4.  How did this happen?!

We decided to start her in a ballet class.  I wish I could tell you how it’s going, I really do, but the instructors are adamant about all parents staying out.  It’s kind of funny.  I can peek through the window curtain a little, but that’s it. 

It’s mainly a time for her to get fancy and do something just for her. 

Last week she came to the conclusion that nearly every Disney princess had bangs and she didn’t.  She basically insisted that I cut bangs for her.  I’m not so sure about my beautician skills, but in order to avoid her doing it herself, I braved the task, and to be honest, I adore them. 

I’m pretty sure bangs are for her.

Our tan li’l chica

Little Miss AnnMarie started school up again about 3 weeks ago.  She is in the 5-year-old class now which means she has ‘English time’ every morning for 2 hours.  She LOVES this time!  It’s her chance to really shine and help her other classmates with a language she knows by heart.  Her teacher is Miss Adriana, and she is wonderful.

On her first day of school, she drew a cute picture for Carlie (the one she’s holding) to help her not get too lonely without her big sis’ around.  Sweet sisters.

She has grown so much over the past year & a half.  Her Spanish (Castillano) really amazes me.  When she first started down here, she was in the 3-year-old class!  Remember?!  My heart starts to panic a little when I think about her leaving all of her Argentine friends. 

We’ve come a long ways I tell ya’, and just when we’re starting to feel a little comfortable with things, change is once again on the horizon.