Summer is winding down

14 month picture








Practice makes perfect










Papa and Grammy








Another close-up








12 month appointment with Dr. Lan (who loves the Lakers!)












The most recent shot of Lola







Taking a bath with Nana













A visit to see Uncle Jeff in San Francisco











Taking her first bike ride









Lola and Barbs















A visit from Maddie. Cheers!










Sleepy baby










Auntie Tamara takes Lola for a swim at the YMCA








Showing a little attitude



Just a few pics and a video from the last two months. The link to more pics from the summer is below. As far as Lola's development, my mom and I counted her words, and she is saying around 25 words. She loves to go up and down the stairs, and doesn't need much assistance. She is friendly, and outgoing, but in new situations she tends to hang back and observe before she gets right into something. Miss Loretta is working on feeding herself with a spoon and drinking from a cup. She is giving hugs and kisses, running, talking in full sentences (in her own language), and starting to assert herself. Being the strong little one that she is, it is impossible to hold onto her when she wants to get down and run around - my baby is now a little girl with a mind of her own. I welcome the change for many reasons, but I can't help but feel a little bit sad to see each phase pass so quickly.

We have enjoyed many visits this summer and took a trip to Washington DC. A special thanks to grandparents, family members and friends who have helped us get through some rough spots this summer. Thanks to all who visited, and thanks to Karkinbaya for hosting us in DC! My eight week clinical practicum has ended (finally!) and I have some time to spend with Lola before next semester starts on August 25th. Benji goes back to work this Tuesday, so that leaves us a bit of family time to enjoy (one weekend is better than nothing). Yesterday we went up to Loch Lomond in the Santa Cruz mountains and rented an electric motor boat. Loretta did great, but seemed to wonder why she had to wear the huge yellow life vest, while her parents skipped out on theirs. We thought she looked adorable (I think Benj posted a pic in an earlier post). Today I took her to the Children's museum and she played in the bubble room and in the new Bob the Builder exhibit, but I didn't bring the camera.

Loretta 12 - 14 months