Hammy's One Love
Posted on 2008-02-10 21:57   [Edit]

The boy turned one year old last week. We of course threw a party just as much to celebrate making it through the first year as parents. Well, we threw two actually, since we can't fit both friends and family in our house at the same time. This has perhaps been the best year of my life, meaning the most challenging, fulfilling and joyful. We are incredibly grateful for the support we've received from so many loved ones, especially our parents.

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Walking 11 months old
Posted on 2008-01-13 21:42   [Edit]

Hammy has departed from his 2-step rhythm. He took his first few steps a couple of months ago, so I thought (feared) he'd be running by now. His Dad and Grandad("A-gong")both walked at 9 months, so I'm surprised Hammy didn't dive into walking too (though the diving would have been more in the falling). Maybe it means Hammy has some innate sense of caution (higher than his father? ;-). I don't want to speculate too much about his personality, but have I mentioned he's wonderful and adorable? OK sorry, now I'm just being obnoxious.
I'll just shut up and show you the videos:

Baby sign language
Posted on 2008-01-05 18:06   [Edit]

Teaching babies sign language is popular here in the over-achiever's silicon valley. Actually, it's a good idea since babies can use their hands with greater skill earlier than their vocal cords. Many moms take sign classes with their toddlers, usually starting between 6-10 months. Being a working mom, I couldn't afford the luxury, but instead went to the official ASL website http://commtechlab.msu.edu/sites/aslweb/browser.htm
to learn a few key words. Hammy started signing "more" over the holiday break (at 10 months). Here's a video of him while eating and surrounded by 6 of his loved ones (3 generations) - a most encouraging environment. We're so grateful for this past year, perhaps the best of our lives.