8 Years

In 2001, I packed up a HUGE 50lb bag (most important travel rule I learned - pack 1/2 of what you think you need and bring 2x as much money) and moved to Sydney, Australia for 4 months. I thought I would live off the land, hang out at the beach, maybe work at a bar and just enjoy not doing a 9-5 job. I was 27 and thought - this is the life!

HOWEVER, I found out very soon that I actually do like having a 9-5 job, living off the land isn't THAT fun and you really can't go to the beach everyday. Good life lessons!

During the last few weeks of my trip, Suzanne and I (Suzanne was my wonderful travel partner) went to Sydney's version of Napa Valley. I purchased a bottle of wine at the winery Tyrrell's that suggested aging it for 7-8 years prior to opening.

Suzanne came to visit last weekend from Denver and after 8 years, 6 moves, 2 cities, a marriage and a baby - I FINALLY opened the bottle. It was worth the wait, tasted pretty good and was so nice to celebrate life.


Suzanne opening the bottle, the cork was not cooperating


We had to strain it, yummy! CHEERS!

6 months old

Sebastian is now 6 months old (on 1/18/09). A few highlights this month:
- getting 3 more teeth (7 in total!)
- he can sit up now without assistance (still falls over sometimes)
- Had his 6 month check-up and shots (he did VERY good!)
- Weight 19 lbs 15 oz
- Eating oat meal, bananas, carrots, sweet potatoes and trying new foods every few days

Sebastian is still a very serious baby but does laugh and smile when we are around. He studies everything. He is all boy - gets into everything and is very strong. We continue to be amazed at what he can do and the little person he is becoming. We love him so much!




Sebastian and Katelyn playing in the pac n play Saturday night.

Sweet baby taking a nap

Sitting up!

Making fun of mommy's hair band

Mommy and me!

Long Xmas Weekend

Sebastian showing his first teeth with a big smile. 

Proud mommies!

Sebastian first date with Anna. It was pretty boring at the beginning, but later...

They started to hold hands.

I could not get a picture of both babies looking at the camera at the same time.

Sebastian is a comedian.

Sebastian's play date!

Sebastian and Amelia had a play date today. They had so much fun hanging out together. Amelia is a beautiful little girl - Sebastian has great taste! Amelia is one of his friends from Esperanza School.


Amelia leaning on Sebastian for support


A little tummy time!

They are looking at Amelia's mommy

Just chillin'

Getting their exercise in!

One Year Ago

It's amazing that a little baby can grow from a small peanut into a beautiful baby boy...I found this picture today and wanted to share. What a miracle!! Sebastian is doing wonderful and is such a joy to Felipe and I. He will be 5 months old on 12/18. I can't believe it!!

Rice wins!

Rice and University of Houston played their annual Bayou Bucket on Saturday, 11/29. Rice won for the first time since 2004! It was a great game!! Next up is the Texas Bowl on 12/30 in Houston.

Below is a ONCE IN A LIFETIME picture of Todd holding the bucket - it was published on the COVER of the SUNDAY, 11/30 HOUSTON CHRONICLE! It was very excited for us!! Yea Todd!

3-4 months

Felipe, Sebastian, Katelyn, Mateo 11.15.08


Sebastian and Uncle Todd at the Rice vs Army game

We took Sebastian to the park - we love this photo!

Sebastian wearing his gi-paws hat

on the Rice turf

Sammy the Owl!

Uncle Kyle, Tood, Maren, Landon and friend

Tia Yvette, Tia Mariella

Tia Yvette is in town from Lima!