Bicycling in the backyard 1, January 14, 2012, 4:11 p.m.

Bicycling in the backyard 2, January 14, 2012, 4:11 p.m.

Goo-Poo and Bill flew in yesterday, so the whole family went to dinner last night. Here is a cute video of Yeah-Yeah playing with Robert:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6UKU4G-Q7Y on your mobile device to see the video)

One Year Ago

Messy eating 1, January 11, 2011, 12:18 p.m.

Messy eating 2, January 11, 2011, 12:18 p.m.

Two Years Ago

Fun with containers

Robert sits on Mommy, January 15, 2010, 7:41 p.m.

Three Years Ago

Robert was at Yerba Buena Gardens with his friends The Girls.

Car Seat 1, January 15, 2009, 12:22 p.m.

What a chubby face!, January 15, 2009, 12:22 p.m.

Happy in the car seat, January 15, 2009, 12:23 p.m.

Maia holds up Robert at the picnic, January 15, 2009, 1:06 p.m.

Riding a Carousel, January 15, 2009, 2:56 p.m.

Grabby for the camera on the carousel, January, 15, 2009, 3:07 p.m.

Trying to wait patiently for cake, January 8, 2012, 5:39 p.m.

Gazing at the cake, January 8, 5:36 p.m.

Getting ready to light candles, January 8, 2012, 5:39 p.m.

From her birthday party two years ago:

Running with the soccer ball

One of the problems with chasing the ball was that his pants were long; you can see them droop in this photo

Playground Structure 2 - 3

Playground Structure - Bubble 2

Playground Structure - Bubble 3

Almost there

Waiting patiently for cake

Tired of waiting for cake

He tries to tie the back of his hair with the band...only his hair isn't long enough

Swing with Mommy, January 3, 2010, 3:19 p.m.

From three years ago:

Robert in mid-swing, January 11, 2009, 11:14 a.m.

Robert and girls, January 11, 2009, 11:13 a.m.

Happy swing, January 11, 2009, 11:15 a.m.

Robert napping incognito in front of mommy (Hi, Jess!), January 11, 2009, 1:09 p.m.

Three kids at Alaina's birthday party, January 8, 2012, 3:10 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWN1qg8wHDA on your mobile device)

Robert participated in the three-legged race!

Getting ready for three-legged race, January 8, 2012, 3:36 p.m.

The littlest kids get a small lead, January 8, 2012, 3:38 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1nvHpV4hM0 on your mobile device)

Also, on Saturday (the day before), Robert went bowling for the first time at Serra Bowl!

(on click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Z825uIER74 on your mobile device, but turn down your speakers!)

Such a cute Christmas photo!, December 25, 2011, 9:19 a.m.

Merry Christmas from Grandma, Granddad, and Robert, December 25, 2011, 9:18 a.m.

From Daddy: We all enjoyed eight days visiting grandparents in Southern California, and we just returned today!

We drove down on the night of Thursday the 22nd arriving around 1:30 a.m. (with Robert awake for the last two hours. Eeech.)

Santa gave Robert a Thomas pillow, December 25, 2011

Mommy helps Robert open Thomas tracks, December 25, 2011

Beholding the Thomas train tracks, December 25, 2011

Saying cheese, December 25, 2011

After presents on Christmas morning at Grandma’s and Granddad’s, we drove to Grandpa’s and Grandma Pam’s.

Enjoying the golf clubs with Grandpa, December 30, 2011, 3:02 p.m.

Posing with the golf clubs and Grandpa, December 25, 2011, 3:02 p.m.

We didn’t spend the night there, so during the following the morning, I hurried downstairs with the camera when I heard Robert giggling so cutely and loudly:

Looking serious, December 26, 2011, 8:55 a.m.

Volleyball with Grandma, December 26, 2011, 8:55 a.m.

Robert was playing volleyball with Grandma!

Bouncing the makeshift volleyball, December 26, 2011, 8:58 a.m.

Getting ready to throw to Grandma, December 26, 2011, 8:58 a.m.

Later that day, armed with the golf clubs that Grandpa gave to Robert the day before, Grandpa took Robert and me to the Alhambra Golf Course!

Grandpa takes Robert by the hand to lead him down to the driving range, December 26, 2011, 1:06 p.m.

Grandpa got a medium bucket of golf balls out of the vending machine and then he led us down to the lowest of the three levels of the driving range.

Better that Robert hit from the lowest level!

Surveying the driving range, December 26, 2011, 1:06 p.m.

As I look at the photo above, I am reminded of Robert sitting happily and peacefully with Grandma and Granddad watching a lone golfer at the driving range at the golf course in Golden Gate Park on September 4. I didn’t think as much of it at the time (http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/09/07/big-fat-windmill-big-fat-windmill), but in past three months he has developed a love and obsession with golf.

A golf lesson from Grandpa, December 26, 2011, 1:07 p.m.

After a golf lesson from Grandpa, Robert was happily pleased to be able to hit the ball approaching forty yards.

Looking so pleased, December 26, 2011, 1:07 p.m.

The obsession was golf carried onto Wednesday morning when Granddad took Mommy, Robert, and me to Egg Plantation for breakfast (which turned into brunch due to the long wait):

Merry Christmas from us!

Mommy and Robert on a motorized cable car tour, December 16, 2011, 5:08 p.m.

Beanie's Signature, December 7, 2011

At lunch on Monday, he also drew the following artwork:

This is Robert's attempt at a pentagon, December 5, 2011

This is his self-portrait!, December 5, 2011

Robert rarely takes successful photos, October 15, 2011, 2:29 p.m.

Teeing up at the second hole, November 25, 2011, 12:11 p.m.

Nice shot on hole two, November 25, 2011, 12:12 p.m.

One of the moments that I’ll remember most is the long walk to the miniature golfing entrance of Malibu Grand Prix in Redwood City. His mommy and I smiled happily to each other and we saw the happy bounce in his step as he pranced down the walkway. Awwwwww. We love that kid.

Usually, he would tee off from the beginning of a hole (often missing the ball a few times). Much later, closer to the hole, he would pick up the ball, move it immediately next to the hold, and tap it in!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZa3_xUiQ6U from your mobile device)

After the fun of golf, he got to play some skee-ball in the arcade and then we had lunch at the Old Port Lobster Shack.

Lunch at the Old Port Lobster Shack, November 25, 2011, 1:56 p.m.

Recently, mommy bought him some nice soft golf balls for playing around the house. He loves these.

Golf game and four foam kid-friendly golf balls

This morning, he said to me, “Next time when the girls come here, next time when the come here, we can play golf together in the house.” Yep, there would be a golf ball for each of them. Awwwwwww.

Robert models his 2011 Halloween costume, October 24, 2011, 11:17 a.m.

Here’s the first photo that I took with my new phone:

Robert playing at with train table at preschool, October 21, 2011, 5:07 p.m.

And here’s more Halloween:

Getting ready for trick-or-treating, October 31, 2011, 5:07 p.m.

Stepping outside in costume for the first time, October 31, 2011, 5:09 p.m.

The ninja meets up with the train just before trick-or-treating, October 31, 2011, 5:26 p.m.

Super Robert, October 28, 2011, 3:48 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ9z8mMPvKc on your mobile device)

The carnival rocked! Thank you teachers!

Later, he repeated with a lesser version of the night terrors and almost unconsciously wriggled himself out of bed. Poor Robert!

Last night, we drove down to visit Grandma Carol for her birthday. During the second leg of the drive, he cried a few times in his sleepiness, possibly due to the discomfort of having grown a bit big for sleeping easily in his car seat.

He was all smiles this morning though, asking Mommy how he got here when he woke up. He had some quality play time with Grandma this morning. Here’s a video of their batting practice:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GSyGv8BFq8 or your mobile device.)

Happy birthday, Grandma!

At dinner last weekend, I let him to the restaurant’s restroom. When he asked if the toilet would flush automatically and I said that it might (it would), he began to cry immediately! I led him out.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ft3L-TKOKsg from your mobile device)

Put away bowling with Granddad 1

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N1tmKv7qNU on your mobile device)

Robert watches Wii Bowling

Playing in the sand at school with his in-the-night blue cap, September 2011

In-the-Night Blue versus Morning Blue

From Brian: Robert’s favorite color is blue. He’s realized that for several months now. When I told him that my favorite color was blue, he’d laugh and exclaim, “But your phone is not BLUE!” (I have a black case for my phone.)

About three weeks ago, he stopped saying that and has been telling me that his favorite color is “morning blue.” A few months ago, he decided that his favorite shade of blue is light blue, and “morning blue” is his term for light blue. Why? I just figured it out when a week or so ago he referred to dark blue as “in-the-night blue.” Ohhhhhh, I get it now. “in-the-night blue” is dark as nighttime is dark and therefore “morning blue” must be night blue.

What a Beautiful Day

When the day is sunny, Robert sometimes declares, “What a beautiful day.” (He gets this from Mommy.) It’s so cute!

Robert at the school Walk-a-Thon 1--it was a beautiful day, October 15, 2011

Robert at the school Walk-a-Thon 2, October 15, 2011

Weekend

This past weekend, we enjoyed a visit from Jennie, Kayla, Cristian, and Aaron. They arrived on Saturday. We walked on the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, and drove through Chinatown on Sunday. While I was at work, they enjoyed the Hyde Street Pier on Monday and they left yesterday morning.

Robert loved Cristian and the two were fast friends and playmates. During breakfast in the mornings, he would tell me, “I want them to come up” (they stayed downstairs). When he heard Cristian emerge from downstairs, Robert told me, “I want to see him.” Here’s a video of Robert seeking Cristian’s approval during snack time on Sunday:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rP9R6Hxh4EQ on your mobile device)

Robert tolerated Kayla (sort of; he stood up and moved to another part of the sofa when she sat next to him while Cristian played the Wii).

Robert did not like Aaron, though. Aaron really liked Robert initially, even giving his chest a cute little kiss once. Robert didn’t like that Aaron was grabbing at and/or knocking over toys that Robert set up. Robert locked Aaron in his bedroom (I heard Aaron’s cries. Robert told me that he didn’t want Aaron to come out.) Also, during a father-son dinner on Sunday night, Robert told me, “Uhhhh, Daddy? I sowwy that I threw an instwument at Aaron’s head.”

Pink Eye

However, yesterday Robert showed symptoms of Pink Eye and a diagnosis by Dr. Chan (Robert’s pediatrician whom Robert does indeed know by name) confirmed it. Robert needs eye drops for a week (and he fears eye drops).

A Long Night

Overnight was a long night because Robert woke and jumped into our bed around 2:15 a.m. (I had woken around 1:15 a.m. and had trouble getting back to sleep, so I was already tired). By the three o’clock hour, I persuade Robert to join me in his bed, hoping for better luck. I gave up and turned on his light, allowing him to read. In the four o’clock hour, I left and told him that I would return to my bed.

In the five o’clock hour, he called for me, upset that I didn’t answer his initial calls (because somehow I fell asleep again). He couldn’t find Elmo though he found him right away on his shelf (buried by other stuffed animals). He wanted to bowl in his bedroom, but I convinced him to play in the living room. He returned to our bedroom and fell asleep with us. I got another hour of sleep before I woke up for good.

He fell asleep quite easily tonight because he was sleepy. Now I’m off to bed to bank some rest in case he wakes up overnight!

One Year Ago

Here were Mommy and Robert. Robert was riding this blue cow as we, Grandpa, and Grandma Pam were waiting for our turn at the breakfast restaurant.

Blue cow in Berkeley, October 3, 2010, 10:02 a.m.

Two Years Ago

While Ga-Ga was playing with the exersaucer, was Robert yawning?

Exersaucer, October 4, 2009, 1:07 p.m.

In line for a pork bun with Ga-Ga, October 4, 2009, 1:05 p.m.

Yum, October 4, 2009, 1:06 p.m.

Happy Ga-Ga, October 3, 2009, 1:05 p.m.

Hey, Ga-Ga, what are you eating?, October 4, 2009, 1:09 p.m.

Three Years Ago

Robert laughing with Judy, October 5, 2008, 4:59 p.m.

Robert with Judy, October 5, 2008, 4:59 p.m.

Uncle Albert holds tiny Robert, October 5, 2008, 2:24 p.m.

Bowl Full of Mush

From Daddy: Goodnight Moon is currently one of Robert’s favorite bedtime books. Last week as I was reading to Robert, there is a reference to a “bowl full of mush.” Robert asked what that was and it pointed to the picture in the book. He declared, “It’s like your oatmeal.” Cute and true (though I haven’t eaten oatmeal with him in the morning for quite soon time).

Good Night Moon

Here’s a longer combined video of Robert’s favorite slide from last weekend at Dennis the Menace Playground:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?edit=vd&v=ZKGqL9yFf8Y on your mobile device)

One Year Ago

Asleep on Daddy, September 25, 2010, 3:47 p.m.

Two Years Ago

Here are some photos from Yeah-Yeah and Ngen-Ngen’s house:

Yeah-Yeah and Robert, September 22, 2009, 7:10 p.m.

Yeah-Yeah, Ngen-Ngen, and Robert, September 22, 2009, 7:10 p.m.

Yeah-Yeah, Ngen-Ngen, and Robert grabs his ear, September 22, 2009, 7:09 p.m.

Robert from above 1, September 22, 2009, 7:10 p.m.

Robert from above 2, September 22, 2009, 7:10 p.m.

Three Years Ago

He was small at less than two months old..., September 23, 2008, 8:34 a.m.

...and scrawny too, September 23, 2008, 8:32 a.m.

I was so new to being a Daddy back then and still getting used to holding him, September 23, 2008, 7:56 p.m.

A sense of wonder while watching anchovies swim around an oval tank, September 17, 2011, 1:07 p.m.

Cute Robert at the Playground, September 17, 2011, 5 p.m.

Coloring at the restaurant, June 18, 2011

From Brian: Last weekend, we all went to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Robert knows that it’s in Monterey, so he calls it the “Bay Aquarium.”

Robert looks into a jelly tank, June 18, 2011

Robert and the jellies, June 18, 2011

We’ve all wanted to return since our trip there in June. Robert loves it there.

Robert in a shell, June 18, 2011, 11:05 a.m.

Robert says cheese in a shell, June 18, 2011, 11:05 a.m.

Robert had three favorite parts of the aquarium. The first was the slide in the kids’ play area:

Slide 1, June 18, 2011, 11:30 a.m.

Slide 2, June 18, 2011, 11:30 a.m.

Slide 3, June 18, 2011, 11:30 a.m.

Slide 4, June 18, 2011, 11:31 a.m.

Slide 5, June 18, 2011, 11:31 a.m.

Another was a play area for little kids. (We couldn’t go there on our recent visit because it was crowded and we decided that he was too big. He was very saddened by that decision.)

Come on, Daddy, jump with me!, June 18, 2011, 11:15 a.m.

Robert with Daddy in the play area, June 18, 2011, 11:15 a.m.

Robert even found a way to spell TOY!

Robert spells Toy with Daddy's help, June 18, 2011, 11:21 a.m.

Kids can use almost anything as a TOY, June 18, 2011, 11:20 a.m.

Robert’s absolute favorite, however, were the starfish. (As soon as we entered the aquarium on Saturday, I asked, “Where are the starfish?” The lady corrected me to say that they are “sea stars.” But to Robert, they’ll be “starfish” for some time to come.)

Robert looks at a starfish or a sea star, June 18, 2011, 10:52 a.m.

Robert smiles at the starfish or sea star, June 18, 2011, 10:52 a.m.

Brittle Stars, September 17, 2011, 11:42 a.m.

It all started at the hotel the night before the aquarium. We found a sea star video on the aquarium’s web site and Robert wanted to watch it endlessly. You can watch it on your flash-enabled device at http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/videos/Video.aspx?enc=0ZZ+8rD1FkbaS6rJ54LaoA==. Unfortunately, I can’t figure out how to embed the video here.

Robert and Daddy at the hotel at a moment when they weren't watching a sea star video, June 27, 2011, 9:09 p.m.

From that video, you could see Robert’s favorite type of sea star called a “bat star.”

Beanie touches a bat star 1, September 17, 2011, 11:47 a.m.

Beanie touches a bat star 2, September 17, 2011, 11:48 a.m.

Beanie beholds bat stars, September 17, 2011, 11:48 a.m.

Robert loves the bat stars, September 17, 2011, 11:48 a.m.

After the aquarium, we shopped briefly. Here’s Robert on a mechanical horse at the outlet mall:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzw-0N5KC2A on your mobile device)

Then afterward we played at Dennis the Menace Playground.

Happy at Dennis the Menace Playground, September 17, 2011, 4:22 p.m.

A funny look at a fun place, September 17, 2011, 4:21 p.m.

Climbing a structure with Mommy behind, September 17, 2011, 4:25 p.m.

He liked this spiral slide a lot, September 17, 2011, 4:25 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeZqGhKQG7M on your mobile device)

Robert and Daddy climb a bridge over a giant slide, September 17, 2011, 4:15 p.m.

This was his favorite slide, September 17, 2011, 4:20 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IB2b-RjTeSY on your mobile device)

Close-up, September 17, 2011, 5 p.m.

This past weekend, we were fortunate that we could stay at Shannon’s vacation home. When we returned home, for a couple of days, Robert declared, “I don’t live here anymore.” He thought that he moved to Shannon’s.

In fact, in the dark early this morning, Robert scampered into our bedtime crying and whimpering, muttering, “Shannon…” I asked if he was dreaming and he said yes. I think that he dreamt that he was at Shannon’s and woke disoriented. Poor Beanie!

By the way, Robert’s on a roll with potty-training! He’s used the potty four times in the past two days! Yay, Robert!

Ready to make the Easter Bunny a suggestion that he can't refuse, September 12, 2010, 6:16 p.m.

From Daddy: Tonight while playing, Robert, Mommy, and Daddy hid under the blanket in the big bed. When Mommy asked Robert from whom we were hiding, Robert declared, “We’re hiding from the Easter Bunny!”

Mommy asked, “Why are we hiding from the Easter Bunny?”

Robert replied, “Because the Easter Bunny is yucky!” Mommy asked him why the Easter Bunny was yucky and Robert logically answered, “Because he is.“

Mommy said, “The Easter Bunny brings chocolate and candy.”

Robert said, “I…like…candy,” but then he added, “The Easter Bunny should bring…toys.”

Mommy said, “That’s Santa Claus’ job.”

One Year Ago

I don’t remember where we were on September 12, 2010, but here is Robert coloring in a restaurant:

Robert at work, September 12, 2010, 6:16 p.m.

365 days ago today, we were visiting the people that Robert calls, “My friends The Girls.”

Alaina rides around Robert in the parking lot, September 13, 2010, 4:54 p.m.

Robert golfs with Kati, September 13, 2010, 4:55 p.m.

Robert loved then (and still loves today) to wave sticks around, September 13, 2010, 4:55 p.m.

Our little boy, one year littler, September 13, 2010, 4:55 p.m.

Two Years Ago

Mommy and Robert had gone to visit Grandma and Granddad:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COqJRizBYRw on your mobile device)

Later, I would fly down and we would drive home together:

We visited Jennie and Kayla on the way out of Santa Clarita and here's Kayla holding Baby Robert, September 13, 2009, 9:37 a.m.

Robert was just beginning to appreciate hats, September 13, 2009, 9:37 a.m.

We stopped at Harris Ranch to walk around, September 13, 2009, 1:09 p.m.

Let's go this way!, September 10, 2009, 1:10 p.m.

Daddy loves Beanie!, September 13, 2009, 1:10 p.m.

Lunch on the road (Santa Nella), September 13, 2009, 3:05 p.m.

Tired of paparazzi, September 13, 2009, 3:05 p.m.

Straw and Zoo Cup 1, September 13, 2009, 4:18 p.m.

Straw and Zoo Cup 2, September 13, 2009, 4:18 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHiW4Oa9QZo on your mobile device)

Three Years Ago

Playing with Ngen-Ngen, September 17, 2008, 5:06 p.m.

Smiling at Ngen-Ngen, September 17, 2008, 5:06 p.m.

Robert Looks Serious on Yeah-Yeah, September 17, 2008, 6:59 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIk0axK9VGs and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyWpy_2xp80 on your mobile device)

Big Smile for the Grandparents, September 5, 2011, 4:05 p.m.

From Daddy: The title of this post comes from Grandma calling Robert “Lovebug.” He used to echo her cutely and say, “Luuuvbug…”

We really enjoyed last weekend when Grandma and Granddad stayed with us for a few days!

Beanie and Grandma play with plastic Pooh bears, September 4, 2011, 7:04 a.m.

Your move, Pooh bear, September 4, 2011, 7:04 a.m.

Robert and Grandma had lots of fun. Grandma’s interest in the Big Fat Windmill was one of the reasons we visited it last weekend and also they bonded over Rock and Rock with Elmo (recall http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/09/07/big-fat-windmill-big-fat-windmill/). After Granddad added batteries to the microphone, they sang songs from the book together. Robert’s favorite song was “Shoe Snakes” (which was really the chorus of “Shoo Fly,” just with lyrics changed around a little bit). He even sang the song to her this morning over the phone while sitting on the potty.

Beanie and Grandma sing "Shoe Snakes," September 4, 2011, 9:25 a.m.

Beanie sings Shoe Snakes with the microphone in the kitchen, September 4, 2011, 9:28 a.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQrupuuXhsg on your mobile device)

Robert and Granddad played with the Nintendo Wii a lot last Sunday and had lots of fun!

In case you didn't know, the Wii is unique because it detects the motion of the controller. Here Robert is whipping the controller around, September 5, 2011, 4:01 p.m.

Recall the Robert likes to dance to the Wii Sports music (from http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/09/10/i-want-sports/).

As the music started, Robert said, "Granddad, dance with me!" September 5, 2011, 2:11 p.m.

Robert dancing to the Wii 1, September 5, 2011, 1:05 p.m.

Robert dancing to the Wii 2, September 5, 2011, 1:10 p.m.

Granddad really loved to play golf on the Wii!

There were tense moments during Wii golf..., September 5, 2011, 4:04 p.m.

...and there were happy moments during Wii golf..., September 5, 2011, 4:04 p.m.

Happy Robert, September 5, 2011, 4:04 p.m.

...but much like actual golf, there were many boring moments, September 5, 2011, 1:12 p.m.

On Saturday night, we had dinner at Ngen-Ngen and Yeah-Yeah’s house to celebrate Adrienne Goo-Goo’s return. Here’s a movie with Robert and Ga-Ga at the “microphone”:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0X5HPnYkug on your mobile device)

Mommy and I loved being able to sleep in while the grandparents watched Robert in the morning.

After pushing Daddy out of bed, Robert slept in this morning, September 5, 2011, 6:13 a.m.

One night while getting ready for bed, I sent Robert into the living room to say goodnight to Grandma and Granddad. He bounded in to give them hugs, saying, “I zzzhink I will go to sleeeep now.” Grandma called him Lovebug and he smiled at us to say, “Grandma calls me ‘Lovebug.’” Hee-hee!

It was a great and fun weekend!

If only Daddy aimed the camera slightly lower..., September 5, 2011, 4:06 p.m.

By the way, Robert also got into the act of playing with the camera. Here’s a photo that he took of his own feet while wearing his BuzzLight pajamas (recall http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/09/08/buzz-woody-and-other-great-partnerships).

To infinity...and below!, September 2, 2011, 10:42 a.m.

From Daddy: Robert loves the opening music to Nintendo Wii Sports. When the Wii main menu begins, he says, “I want Sports,” so that you’ll click Wii Sports. Then the dancing begins!

The dance doesn’t last that long, but it’s cute.

We joined Arlene Goo-Goo, Uncle James, Ga-Ga, and Di-Di for lunch with Bok-Bok today, and the boys played with the Wii. Robert and Ga-Ga were so cute! And I fed Di-Di corn kernels. Here are photos and a video of lunch with the boys from last month:

Boys in hats, June 28, 2011, 5:28 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEDntak5WDs on your mobile device)

First Day of Preschool 1, August 25, 2011, 2:14 p.m.

From Daddy: Here are photos from Robert going his first day of preschool (August 25, 2011) with his little lunchbox/snackbox!

First Day of Preschool 2, August 25, 2011, 2:14 p.m.

First Day of Preschool 3, August 25, 2011, 2:14 p.m.

On his first day, we signed him in and led him outside to the play area. Immediately, he was interested in toy bowling pins and the small house with a doorbell. He was great and happy!

We heard later in the day that he hurt his finger in the door, cried, but recovered. (That’s my boy!) Later, he’d just call it an “owie” and his finger was fine.

Ready to snack on his first day of preschool, August 25, 2011, 5:29 p.m.

And here he is at the end of the day, just about to begin his snack. I took this picture as Mommy and I picked him up. (Of course, he always wants to finish his snack before leaving school.)

We’re so proud of him! He’s adjusted almost seamlessly into a preschooler!

Happy Robert as Buzz, August 14, 2011, 8:56 a.m.

From Daddy: Robert is obsessed with Buzz Lightyear and Woody from Toy Story.

One of Robert's favorite shirts (actually pajamas), August 12, 2011

It started with Robert’s first viewing of any Toy Story movie: Toy Story 3late last year at Grandpa’s and Grandma Pam’s soon before his first trip to Disneyland. I didn’t think that he paid full attention to the movie, but soon enough he was obsessed with Woody, acting out Woody, pretending to be Woody (“I Woody,” he’d say), etc.

(He actually saw the Toy Story movies in reverse order.)

Woody poses inside a spider cut-out at the zoo, August 12, 2011

Here he is even wearing his Woody cowboy hat to the pharmacy:

Woody at the Pharmacy, August 11, 2011, 11:10 a.m.

Buzz puts on his helmet before going to infinity...and beyond!, August 14, 2011, 8:56 p.m.

But Uncle Albert gave Robert a stuffed Woody and Buzz (and now he sleeps with both) and Robert got a talking plastic Buzz from Mommy and Daddy—both for his birthday—and now Buzz (whom he used to always call BuzzLight) is his favorite!

Robert’s obsessions spill over into the rest of his life too. Sometimes, it’s easier to get Robert’s attention by calling him “Buzz” instead of “Robert.” Sometimes he tries to get Ga-Ga to join his obsessions (by, for example, calling him “John” from “They Might Be Giants,” but that’s another story).

Robert and Ga-Ga beside each other, August 6, 2011, 1:38 p.m.

Robert and Di-Di, the next target for Robert's obsessions, August 6, 2011, 1:39 p.m.

A puff picnic for two, August 6, 2011, 1:59 p.m.

A puff picnic for three, August 6, 2011, 1:59 p.m.

Happy Beanie at the Big Fat Windmill, September 4, 2011, 11:57 a.m.

From Daddy:

Rock and Roll with Elmo

One of Robert’s favorite presents from his birthday (recall http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/08/06/2011-beanie-birthday) is a music-playing book with microphone accessory called Rock and Roll with Elmo.

Rock and Roll with Elmo book with microphone accessory

Granddad and Aunt Linda watch the Beanie play with his microphone toy, July 31, 2011, 8:06 a.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmP8sm7vlqk on your mobile device)

Finally on Sunday morning, during Grandma’s and Granddad’s Labor Day weekend visit, Granddad installed batteries into the microphone. Robert had lots of fun talking, announcing, and singing into the microphone to amplify his voice. After he learned that the day’s plans would include a visit to the Dutch windmills in Golden Gate Park, Robert strutted down the hallway, chanting, “Big Fat Windmeeels! Big Fat Windmeeels!“

Windmoos!

Robert’s fascination with windmills began during a drive with Mommy passing through the Altamont Pass Wind Farm. Mommy told him that the windmills were tall and skinny compared to the wider ones in Golden Gate Park.

Altamont Wind Turbines 7-11-09

Robert, however, pronounced them “Windmoos.” And the ones in Golden Gate Park were “Big Fat Windmoos.” Hee-hee!

Big Fat Windmoos!

Fast forward to Robert’s first day of preschool. Robert saw a windmill on the train table at his preschool. Teacher Judy told Mommy that Robert kept talking about “big fat windows.” Mommy told Judy that really Robert was remarking about the “big fat windmill” on the train table. Funny!

Big Fat Windmeels! Big Fat Windmeels!

Beanie in front of the Big Fat Windmill, September 4, 2007, 11:54 a.m.

We made it out to the Big Fat Windmill on Sunday morning. Robert was so happy, running and prancing around.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=506rrSwwee4 on your mobile device)

Here are some photos from Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden beside the Windmill.

Beanie, Mommy, and Grandma at Windmill Garden 1, September 4, 2007, 11:56 a.m.

Beanie strikes a pose and vogues, September 4, 2007, 11:56 a.m.

Granddad is convinced to join the photo and we get a view of the garden, September 4, 2011, 11:57 a.m.

Beanie got hungry, so Daddy held him during a noontime snack, September 4, 2011, 12:01 p.m.

Beanie and Grandparents as we were leaving the Big Fat Windmill. Robert calls the small blades the "circle windmill" and the rectangular blades the "square windmill," September 4, 2011, 12:09 p.m.

The Quest for the Bison Paddock

From the Big Fat Windmill, we tried to walk to the Bison Paddock. Along the way, we found the golf course…

Robert wanted to wonder around and pull up stuff at the golf course in Golden Gate Park

…(where Robert was disappointed when we told him not to pull up putting green flags until he found peace watching someone hit balls at the driving range) and the archery field!

Mommy made sure that we stayed far away from the arrows at the Archery Field in Golden Gate Park

The bison are cared by the staff from the San Francisco Zoo. Robert saw the word “zoo” on the descriptive sign at the bison paddock and spelled “zoo” for us! (Recall http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/07/22/he-can-spell-toy-and-zoo.)

Bison Paddock in Golden Gate Park (though the bison were mostly hidden when we visited)

It was a fun day to wander around!

We are so excited! The school is a cute, child-friendly place that we are positive that Robert will come to love. He will have so much fun there! He starts preschool in three days!

Then Robert said, “I love you too! Have a gweat [great] day!” He’s so cute!

When it was Robert’s turn, Uncle James asked if Robert knew how to Wii bowl on his own. I said that he certainly did! (Actually, Robert had only figured it out about a couple of weeks ago.)

His first frame: STRIKE!

His second frame: SPARE!

His third frame: SEVEN PINS! (Okay, the first ball was a gutter ball.)

It kind of went downhill from there. Robert definitely wasn’t able to bowl as well as Ga-Ga, but I was proud of him!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKTf7LnjzOk on your mobile device.

We arrived around 1 p.m. and Robert didn’t really eat lunch. (He had enjoyed two breakfasts that morning, so I wasn’t overly concerned.) I did convince him to eat a veggie later on, but before that I laid out three piles of Bok-Bok’s puffs on the coffee table—one pile for each boy. Robert declared, “It’s a PUFF PICNIC!!!“

Ga-Ga two-handedly devoured his pile and started on Robert’s! When Uncle James admonished Ga-GA for eating Robert’s, Ga-Ga instead starting feeding Robert (I guess Ga-Ga loves handling those puffs)! Below is a photo of the two younger boys (Ga-Ga had already finished his):

Robert said, "It's a Puff Picnic!" August 13, 2011, 1:15 p.m.

He replied, “One day I weeel.” (“One day I will.”) Cute.

*He likes to hide when he poops.

From Daddy: Click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogNpnceI1DQ, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmDPO0aGWWM, and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84ojbyaCzds on your mobile device

Granddad and Aunt Linda watch the Beanie play with his microphone toy, July 31, 2011, 8:06 a.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmP8sm7vlqk on your mobile device)

The morning was fun and centered around family. However, his Southern California relatives departed in stages in the morning. As relatives were leaving, he grew increasing sensitive to their departures and he was a little weird during good-byes.

Mommy’s plan was to walk (which Robert loves to do) down to Irving Street (which Robert loves also) to get pizza (which Robert loves to eat) for dinner with any relative that was still here. Unfortunately, no one stayed, but Robert didn’t mind because the pizza, of course, was Irving Pizza. Starting on this day, however, Robert decided to call the restaurant “Pizza Planet.” So cute and imaginative!

A cheesey smile for a cheesey pizza, July 31, 2011, 4:52 p.m.

Enjoying Pizza Planet, July 31, 2011, 4:52 p.m.

Why is walking toward the back of Pizza Planet? So that he can jump toward the door!, July 31, 2011, 5:10 p.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEXV5DWmAtg on your mobile device)

Then we walked to get some dessert!

Outside our dessert place, July 31, 2011, 5:37 p.m.

Afterward, Robert “flew home” like Buzz Lightyear, with his “wings” gently swaying right and left.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXVYqg0iT-M on your mobile device)

Though we stopped off to drum along the way…

Beanie drums on the way home from Pizza Planet on his birthday, July 31, 2011, 5:45 p.m.

We had a great time!

We began our celebration on Thursday and Friday with the arrival of family from Southern California.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tx5Tv7qD4b8 on your mobile device)

On Saturday, we had a great kid party at My Gym!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=757lWBlC4-I on your mobile device)

On his birthday itself, all of our visitors left. Robert had a difficult time saying good-bye and was very awkward about it. Later, he had a good day and we had a celebratory dinner of pizza and frozen yogurt. He pretended to fly home until he encountered “drums.”

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esrqQVZwl4w on your mobile device)

We love you Beanie!!!

Daddy: What would you like for breakfast?

Beanie: I don’t know what I would like for breakfast?

Daddy: How abouttttttt…a banana?

Beanie [whom Daddy knows has been largely boycotting bananas for months]: No…. I don’t like bananas so much. Maybe when I’m older I will take a bite–like when I’m two.

Daddy: You’re already two!

Beanie: How old are you?

Daddy: I’m forty.

Beanie: And on my birthday, I will be three!

After his breakfast (“circle” or rounded toast and applesauce), we visited Bok-Bok. He happily greeted Bok-Bok and Chun Pau-Pau, ran, and played ball. Bok-Bok reached under the coffee table and produced some puffs for Robert, which he devoured.

Beanie Gets Puffs from Bok-Bok, July 24, 2011, 10:16 a.m.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYDx3v3mwQ8 on your mobile device)

Later, he surprised me by requesting the seaweed snacks that he saw in the kitchen. I was surprised because he declared, “I love seaweeds,” even after rejecting them last week.

Beanie spelled TOY, May 17, 2011, 7:20 p.m.

He has also been able to spell “zoo” for at least a month and a half!

Beanie spelled Zoo, June 5, 2011, 6:57 p.m.

He loves the zoo, so the inspiration is obvious!

Hello from the Zoo!, July 1, 2011, 12:53 p.m.

The Drinking Problem

After breakfast yesterday, I gave Robert a cup of milk. He drink some (or so I thought), walked to the hallway, and spit it out. “Why did you spit out your milk?!” I asked.

“I need a towel,” he requested.

I ran to the kitchen to get a towel and repeated my question. He replied with something that I didn’t understand. I repeated the question. He repeated the thing that I didn’t understand. I started wiping up and he looked to play with a ball. He found a beach ball.

I soak the first towel and I passed him on the way to the kitchen. I asked him again why he spit the milk out. He said, “Beach ball!” Confused and returning with more towel, I repeated the question. He yelled back, “BEACH! BALL!”

I asked him pointedly, “Why did you spit out your milk?!”

He hung his head down and said softly, “I don’t know…”

At least I understood that one. I said, “Well, I can accept that answer.”

The Heavy-Drinking MC at the Mic

Our MC at the microphone

Robert and I walked up and down Irving street yesterday morning to pick up lunch and treats for Bok-Bok. We visiting Bok-Bok and had lunch at her house.

During play time, he found Bok-Bok’s stand and treated it like a microphone stand! (He’s been inspired by microphones for a while, most recently by Yeah-Yeah’s performance as the MC at Cara Goo-Goo’s and Berry’s wedding http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/07/09/fun-time-at-the-wedding and by the goings-on at the 2011 banquet http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/03/06/lots-of-fun-at…family-banquet.) Isn’t he cute?!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBL7oSnCHlM on your mobile device)

Tonight's bedtime reading

As I was preparing to read the book, Robert asked (hee-hee!) if the M&Ms had peanuts in them! (Recall that Robert is allergic to peanuts http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/02/27/february-in-review.) I said that they didn’t.

Then he asked, “Are they chocolate M&Ms?” I responded yes. Then he reminisced about how he gets two M&Ms as a “treat” when he successfully uses the potty (recall http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/06/01/a-beanie-day-to-remember and http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2011/07/11/he-is-proud-of-me), and said “andIlikethemso much!” It was so cute!
The Peanut M&M Incident

Actually, for more background, this spring, Robert had an allergic incident with a peanut M&M that we never got around to blogging.

On April 24, we were invited to an Easter picnic and egg hunt at Mother’s playground in Golden Gate Park.

Auntie Alison leads Robert to the Easter egg hunt (thanks to Jess for the great photo)

Big kids congregate as Robert traipses in the background on the right (thanks to Jess for the great photo)

Just after the Easter egg hunt and before the drama (thanks to Jess for the great photo)

Robert's "Easter bonnet" (thanks for Jess for the great photo)

Unfortunately, a peanut M&M unfortunately sneaked its way into the mix and wound up in Robert’s egg. He bit into the M&M, tasted the peanut, and spit it out (yay, Robert!). He announced the peanut to Mommy. Mommy confirmed the peanut and then ran to get me, and then we (Mommy, Robert, Grandma Carol, and I) sped home. At home, we gave Robert some baby Benadryl and a couple of light puffs from his emergency inhaler. Afterward, he took a nap.

A couple of hours later in bed, I felt the heat from Robert’s sleeping body. Hives had formed, so we took Robert to the emergency room. His spirits were wonderful and he delighted a few people in the waiting room. He was terrifically cute with the triage nurse. The nurse asked for his name and he said, “Wobert.” He kicked his legs adorably as he sat in that chair. He permitted the blood pressure test. He was great.

Later, they just gave him another dose of benadryl (no downside to that, they said) and a few minutes with a nebulizer (several inches from his face so that he wouldn’t freak out, which he didn’t), and we were discharged with a clean bill of health.

It was a scary incident, but I was so proud of Robert for knowing that he shouldn’t have peanuts and of the way that handled himself at the E/R. Robert is definitely my treat.

We gave him lots of accolades. Later he said to me, "I love you and I’m proud of you," just like I told him.

One thing that he did was to play a toy ball inside of a plastic cup and speak to it. Bok-Bok thought that he made an ice cream cone, but really Robert was imitating Yeah-Yeah from last night! Robert mumble something about “song,” “love,” and “Berry.” Hee-hee!

Robert got to play and received some love, but when it was time for his grandparents to leave, his face immediately started to sadden and he began to rub tears out of his eyes! It was both sad and sweet.

I held him and asked sad Robert if he wanted to play ball or bowling. He sadly replied, “I don’t want to play anyzzzhing.”

Dressed for the wedding, July 9, 2011, 12:39 p.m.

Kids at the water, looking out past the fence, July 9, 2011, 3:09 p.m.

Congratulations to Cara Goo-Goo and Berry!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oz94fQJNKWw on your mobile device)

San Diego

Smiling before a long drive, June 10, 2011, 7:42 a.m.

On the morning of June 10, everyone packed up and left Grandma and Granddad’s. They had enjoyed their vacation, but it was time to come home to daddy!

Beanie and suitcase, June 10, 2011, 7:43 a.m.

It would be quite late before everyone got home. And then there was another adventure!

On Saturday, June 11, Mommy, Daddy, Robert, and Auntie Alison flew down to  San Diego. This was Robert’s very first plane trip and he was fantastically well-behaved, despite a roughly two-hour delay in take-off. We spent much of the time chasing each other through the terminal. Robert also liked scaling the shoeshine booth steps.

Beanie at the Shoeshine, June 11, 2011, 2:36 p.m.

That night at a late dinner, Robert barely lasted until dinner was served before falling asleep. Mommy and Daddy attended Marc and Jayna’s wedding the next evening while Robert behaved well with Auntie Alison. We flew out on Monday and spent a couple of hours on the plane before we were permitted to take-off. Robert had a terrific time speaking with the pilot while he described the instrumentation in the cockpit. Robert even got to play with some controls. (He immediately wanted to leave the co-pilot’s seat while Daddy placed him in it!)

This Weekend So Far

Uncle Albert returned to town this weekend, and we had the opportunity to spend some time with him. Robert and Daddy had breakfast with Uncle Albert on Saturday (actually, Robert devoured three hotcakes at McDonald’s while Uncle Albert and Daddy spoke) and then later on we played bowling and tennis on the Wii. Uncle Albert doesn’t know if he’ll be in town for Robert’s birthday, so he brought Robert some early birthday presents.

Big Buzz and Big Woody--The latest additions to the family, July 2, 2011, 8:06 p.m.

Robert calls them “Big Buzz” and “Big Woody,” and loved them right away! He immediately started playing with them and he took on their voices so that they could speak with each other. It was so cute!

Beanie playing at Annie's before haircut, July 3, 2011, 10:54 a.m.

We had a minor head lice scare earlier this week (which hopefully proved to be a non-issue), but the shagginess of Robert’s hair made it a convenient weekend to get a haircut. Robert and Daddy wandered down to Salon de Annie and waited our turn. Robert has become quite accustomed to the place and knows exactly where the play area is. Next, we each had a haircuts without incident and Robert knew that his customary reward is that his request for a lollipop is honored. Daddy asked what color lollipop he wanted. He exclaimed, “Blue!” and was so incredibly smiley and happy that he got it. Actually, the lollypop turned his mouth purple!

Purple lips and a blue lollipop, July 3, 2011, 11:47 a.m.

Very purple lips after finishing a blue lollipop, July 3, 2011, 11:48 a.m.

Afterward, Mommy joined us for a big lunch on Irving Street before walking home.

Tomorrow

Tomorrow is Yeah-Yeah’s birthday. Happy birthday, Yeah-Yeah!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmhJhlwLjtQ from your mobile device)

Toon Town with Alaina, June 8, 2011, 11:25 a.m.

Robert and Grandma just before ride at Disneyland, June 8, 2011

Granddad and Robert share a ride at Disneyland, June 8, 2011

They look like they are having so much fun! Here’s a photo at lunchtime:

Robert and Mommy have lunch at Disneyland, June 8, 2011

Last I heard, he was waiting for fireworks.

Disneyland - Waiting for fireworks, June 8, 2011

I miss my boy so much! I know that he’s having a great time, though! He brings so much joy in my life, so I know that he must be s making Southern California a happier place. Here’s my favorite recent photo of Robert, smiling at me at breakfast:

Robert smiles after eating his breakfast, May 26, 2011, 8 a.m.

Awwwww. And here’s a picture of my angel sleeping at the foot of the bed after I woke one morning.

I woke one morning to find him sleeping at the foot of the bed, May 23, 2011, 7:03 a.m.

Also, here’s a bonus video of Robert laughing with Alaina and Katia:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcHQN_WpDK0 on your mobile device)

Also yesterday afternoon, he held a very long telephone conversation with Grandma and Granddad. He walked around the house as he spoke, even taking the phone to the doorstep. “I want to go outside.”

Tonight, he had a great time and great dinner at Yeah-Yeah’s and Ngen-Ngen’s eating tofu, broccoli, and roasted chicken (the most non-fried chicken he’s had in a long time)!

Seemingly satisfied with a choice, he chose “Now,” and I think that’s when I heard Mommy laugh from the kitchen. And that’s when I washed him. Hee-hee!

Robert & Katharine Day-Day

Robert, Alexandra Day-Day, & Ga-Ga

Robert and Ga- Ga at the stage

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRkEY89spGQ and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7iPgxd4-sY on your mobile device)

Actually, let’s start in late January with a visit to LA to see the New York cousins who are now off for a few years abroad!
Here’s a pic and 2 videos from the car trip south:

At breakfast with Daddy

For Christmas Grandpa and Grandma Pam gave us all Disneyland tickets, so Robert took his first trip to “The Happiest Place On Earth”. Sorry for the color on this first one. My phone was on some weird setting for a while.

On the carousel at Disneyland

Hello Eeyore!

Driving in Toontown (definitely Robert's favorite "land")

The kids people watching and waiting for dinner in Tomorrowland.

Ending the night with a Mickey "rice krispy" treat.

Also in LA:

Pics above and below were taken at a playground in Griffith Park (L.A)

The following shots were taken during an outing to the California Science Center with my step-sister and my nephews:

And just a few more cute shots from our trip:

Puzzle time!

Early Morning Sunshine

Hanging out with Grandpa

All of Grandpa's and Grandma Pam's grandkids

Sleeping with friends (including the Mickey Mouse Grandpa and Grandma Pam bought at Disneyland).

Okay, on to February…

Unfortunately, the first day of February brought an allergic reaction to a peanut. He had had some peanut butter and a couple of peanuts before, but had never liked them. He had a reaction to cashews in the fall, as well. So we went to the allergist later in the month to find out he is also allergic to dust mites (no real surprise, as he had been sneezing and having itchy eye attacks for a couple of months).

Poor puffy, hivey, Robert

Each week, we take a fun outing with our friends the Lukes. One outing was to Chinatown on the first day of Chinese New Year. We bought some poppers and threw them with other kids at the playground.

Another outing was a fun scavenger hunt around a shopping center on a rainy day. (We ended up at the craft store getting things to paint at home). The pics are from some dress-up at the party store.

One rainy Saturday found Mommy, Daddy, and Robert on Irving Street getting haircuts. Robert, as you can see, sat on Daddy’s lap and watched videos in order to make the cut go smoothly. And this was the first time there were no tears!

Happy haircut boys

This weekend (2/26 – 2/27) we finished up February with 2 family outings. The first was a belated birthday trip to have tea for our friend Katia’s birthday. We got dressed in our nice clothes and headed out to enjoy tea (or in Robert’s case, hot chocolate) and treats. The kids also got to try out the dress up area that they have for kids.

Sugar cubes!!!!!

Mmmmm, hot chocolate!

Fun with dress up.

You look mahvahlous!

The outing definitely got 2 thumbs up!

And tonight, Mommy, Daddy, and Robert went for a little walk and dinner out.

Cheese!

Robert and the Birthday Ga-Ga (pictured in his crown)

The next morning, he went to the zoo with his godsisters:

Godsisters in train with Robert 1

Godsisters in train with Robert 2

Godsisters in train with Robert 3

Godsisters in train with Robert 4

Peacock Robert

And here’s a definite highlight: Robert watches Auntie Alison blow bubbles:

He's so attentive to the bubble-blowing process

He was so happy that night! See him laugh out loud

Happy to blow bubbles

Laughing with the bubbles

A happy Beanie in profile

Grab the bubbles!

What a great time!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvQfSumFflw on your mobile device)

Later, we visited Yeah-Yeah, Ngen-Ngen, and Bok-Bok for a some play time.

Yeah-Yeah and Ngen-Ngen Read to Robert

After lunch, we went shopping for a Christmas Tree! Robert was amused running up and down a steep driveway.

Robert Climbs Driveway 1

Robert Climbs Driveway 2

Looking happy

Looks cute in his leather jacket

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5RF3Qufdvk on your mobile device)

Finally, we brought home the tree!

Big Tree, Little Boy

Robert preparing for dessert all by himself (!) at the kids' table

Yum! Pumpkin pie!

We arrived the day before Thanksgiving and left the morning afterward.

Grandma Carol and Robert doesn't look at the camera

Grandma Carol and Robert looks at the camera, November 27, 2010, 4:25 p.m.

We returned Saturday for dinner.

Granddad and Robert in PJs before the trip home

Then we took a bath and said good-bye before returning home.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZ-aitoBHkw on your mobile device)

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKXb3TgFpTA
  
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFS52ivT9wM
  
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Xs5Fn9I5Nk
  

Making Muffins with Alison 1

From Brian: This morning, Robert made muffins with Auntie Alison.

Making Muffins with Alison 2

He had so much fun!

Making Muffins with Alison 3

Making Muffins with Alison 3

Making Muffins with Alison 8

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMAzAllRes8 on your mobile device.

Later tonight, Robert and I played on the bed. I told him that he was cute. He replied, “I handsome!” Then we sang Old McDonald. Oh mannnn!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lS5JbRA6r84

Saying, "Cheeeeeeeese!"

From Daddy: Today was a busy day! This morning, Robert and I drove Yeah-Yeah and Ngen-Ngen to the airport from 7:00 – 7:30 a.m.. Then we went to Home Depot to pick up a light bulb. He had lots of fun strolling through wide open aisles and examining the shelves!

When we returned to the car, I asked if he wanted food. He said yes, so we went to the McDonald’s in Serramonte to get him an Egg McMuffin without cheese. He has never had one before (and I haven’t eaten one in years) and I was curious of his reaction.

I separated the muffin parts, the slice of ham, and the egg. He recognized and enjoyed some of the muffin. He also recognized the ham as meat, but he started off only licking it. “Like ice cream,” he said (remember http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2010/11/06/who-taught-him-how-to-eat-ice-cream and http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2010/10/22/ice-cream-mess-the-big-bathtub). Eventually, he would eat it.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AxAIE6Q7B0 on your mobile device)

Next came the egg part. He has eaten scrambled eggs many times, but this egg had the yolk intact though cooked softly.

He noticed that the whole thing was a sandwich, so I reassembled it and offered him a bite. He had a small bite near the edge of the sandwich, but he did eat a bit of egg and recognized the taste as egg. (He also wanted to hold the sandwich leading to half a muffin hitting the floor.) So he ate the egg, too!

He likes it!

He needed a lot of time to eat what he wanted, but he did great.

Hungry boy

Afterward, we made a quick trip to the cemetery to visit my Yeah-Yeah whom Robert has never visited and then we went home.

We played at home and then had lunch at Tanforan with relatives. Then Robert and I hit the play area while Mommy did a quick bit of shopping. So here’s Robert sitting on the horse this afternoon:

Saying cheese on the horse

And one more time

And here he was on January 9, 2010 (http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/09/r-is-for-robert):

Whoa fella!

Now he's riding solo

How he’s changed in just ten months!

Violin lesson 1

Violin lesson 2

Violin lesson 3

Also, we had lunch at Yeah-Yeah and Ngen-Ngen’s house to celebrate Ngen-Ngen’s birthday and Colleen Goo-Goo’s birthday. Happy birthday!

Ta-da!

From Brian: And, yes, that’s a gain of cereal in his hair below. (Rice Krispies which he usually calls, “Ice Cream-bies.”)

Bad hair in the morning

Robert and Mommy at Kati's performance

Eating Potato 1

Eating Potato 2

At dinner, Mommy decided to take this series of photos of Robert eating baked potato.

Eating Potato 3

Robert had a small mishap with a bottle of water that Mommy almost captured below.

Drinking water

Thursday morning, Robert and I tuned in to the last 1/2 hour of Sesame Street. The first skit that we watched was entitled Dancing With Triangles and was, as you might guess, a spoof on Dancing With The Stars. The first dancer came out with his shape to dance and here was the conversation:

Beanie: That’s not a triangle, that’s a ocagon (octagon)
Mom: Actually, it’s a hexagon. It has 6 sides, but it looks a lot like a an octagon.
Smart boy!

I have put the video below if you are interested.

I have put the video below if you are interested.

From Brian: After watching Katia’s violin recital, we all went for ice cream. Look how expertly he eats the ice cream cone. Who taught him how to eat an ice cream cone? Certainly not his lactose-intolerant daddy!

On an unrelated note: You may wonder why this blog has so many videos of him eating (besides the fact that he’s restrained: http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2010/07/20/eating-and-stalling). It’s because Robert—like most modern children—know that behind every digital camera is a picture that he wants to see. Witness the video below.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXYoNNGEwtk on your mobile device)

When Robert eats, he’s often sufficiently distracted to permit a video. Or, sometimes Robert needs major distraction as below:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RZqXSrMUDo on your mobile device)

Making a Mask at the Zoo

From Brian: We went to the zoo on Halloween. As you can see, Robert had fun.

Posing in a cutout

At the entrance to the zoo, there was a stack of hay. Mommy tried to take his picture at the hay.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9O9StkO4ZsI from your mobile device)

Robert told us that he wanted to see the “lepers.” He meant lemurs.

Robert wanted to climb on these geese, but it was too wet from rain

When he saw the prairie dogs, he called them, “Baby dogs…” I corrected him and said, “Prairie dogs.” Robert continued, “…and Mommy dogs!”

Robert crawled through this hole from the prairie dogs to the meerkats

Say cheeeeze!

We had a lot of fun at “Boo at the Zoo.” Trick or treat!

Robert sits by the jack o' lantern that Granddad carved

Beanie sits among his toys

Drums 1

Drums 2

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zlae1ZYGTg and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIdxaCwxq2E from your mobile device)

This particular pumpkin patch was unlike the one that he traditionally visits (Last year: http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2009/10/31/pumpkin-day, and the year before (his first visit to a pumpkin patch): http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2008/10/13/our-first-trip-to-the-pumpkin-patch), so we didn’t know how he would react. However, as you can see by the photos above and below, he was so incredibly happy.

Riding Horse 1

Riding Horse 2

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5Rw-9-S6oM on your mobile device)

Below, he gets into the act of picking pumpkins:

Basket

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPgzy7nM7ak from your mobile device)

Afterward, we all went out to dinner! (Recall: http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2010/10/22/ice-cream-mess-the-big-bathtub)

Yummy ice cream

Robert at the table

Hmmmm. What should I order?

Open wide

Messy ice cream

Speaking of messes, on the following night (Monday), Robert had his very first bath in the big bathtub!

Bath bathtub

Close-up in the bathtub

Robert and I often take walks down to Irving Street. If you haven’t been there, it’s very commercial. We usually end up at the produce market, the bank or the library. Sometimes, when Brian isn’t going to be home for dinner, we stop for some pizza at the pizza place.

Cheese!

Robert, if you haven’t heard, is obsessed with stop signs right now. So, if you say S-T-O-P, he will reply STOP! I was a little amazed, however, when he saw this sign and said S-T-O-P, STOP!

S-T-O-P

Recently, Brian was out of town. Here’s a pic of Robert and I out at dinner where he got to sit in a big boy booster seat. The first pic clearly shows how he felt about having his picture taken while he was drawing.

Booster seat 1

Booster seat 2 (Yum!)

Last week, we spent a day with our friends, the Lukes.

Backyard fun

Cheesy driver

Yard Work

We’ve also taken 3 trips to a playground near our house. Robert really likes it there. Especially the slides.

Ready, set...

Go!

And last, but not least, we took a morning trip to the zoo on Saturday. He asked to go see the penguins first.

Zoo 1

Here, he is watching how they fill up the penguin pool with a huge firehose type thing. If you look closely at the bottom of his pants legs, you will see that they are all wet from the puddles he jumped in on the way to the penguins. By the end of our trip to the zoo, his pants were damp up to his knees!

Zoo 2

Umbrella in the driveway 1

Umbrella in the driveway 2

Here’s a cute video of Robert playing with his favorite tricycle near Timothy Di-Di. (I’m not sure why there is no sound.)

Piano with Grandma

Jammin' with Grandma Carol

Before dinner with Granddad

Waiting patiently for food with Grandma Carol

He bowled with Granddad a lot. Here he is putting the bowling set away:

Put away bowling with Granddad 1

Put away bowling with Granddad 2

(or click to watch directly:

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFNwjFGQqZ4
  
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D35NxL_IP3E
  
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZhLjw3jLyM
  
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTNE9BnuDSc)
  

Thank you, Uncle Carlos!

Also, here is Robert playing guitar on Haight Street yesterday while waiting for the bus with Mommy:

(or click to watch directly:

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZuJOCPWks4
  
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qe-Y4d4NEvc
  
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIIvk6LXZJs)
  

Robert needs a hair cut

From Brian: Robert has needed a hair cut for a while, so here is his hair on Wednesday morning.

Robert's shaggy hair

So above are the “before” photos and below are the “after” photos.

Hair cut

Close up of hair cut

Speaking of “gone tomorrow,” Robert and his Mommy are out of town this weekend, and I miss them! I also miss speaking with Robert because he doesn’t really speak on the phone. Here he is speaking (a little):

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBwA3g7o5zo to watch directly)

Robert talking in peace jammies

Robert and Daddy at the Zoo, August 15, 2010

From Brian: Last Sunday, Robert and I went to the zoo last Sunday to take a look at the visiting characters of Yo Gabba Gabba. What we didn’t know was that hundreds of families got there ahead of us and formed a gigantic line. Robert was interested in watching the characters, but he did not feel the need to rush them. Good thing, because I didn’t want to wait in line.

Yo Gabba Gabba at the SF Zoo

Robert did enjoy watching the penguins eat however!

Penguin feeding

After watching the penguins, I was hungry and convinced Robert to join me for a snack at the Leaping Lemur Cafe. Unfortunately, Robert only wanted to eat pretzels. Fortunately, he also ate some pears.

Robert eating 1

Robert eating 2

Robert and I really enjoyed our time.

Why was this a bittersweet photo? Find out below.

Why does this photo represent Daddy losing sleep? Find out below.

From Brian:

Check-Up Update

Mommy took Robert for his two-year-old medical checkup yesterday morning. Mommy says that Robert needed some convincing, but he agreed to be weighed and measured after Dr. Chan (Robert’s pediatrician) showed Robert how.

Robert remains somewhat below average in weight (39th percentile at 27 pounds 3 ounces) and height (26th percentile at 2 feet and 9.6 inches), but Dr. Chan declared Robert to be developing normally and that he won’t need another checkup for a year.

Afterward, Robert got a DTP (diptheria, tetanus, and pertussis) booster shot and the next round of hep B. Mommy reported that Robert was very sad about getting the “poke” (as he called it), but a binky made things much better when it was over.

Yum, Black Beans

A bit later on, Mommy took the above lunchtime photo.

A Visit from the Girls

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHyIuK9PvMc to watch directly)

Robert and girls jump in the crib

We were pleased to welcome the girls yesterday for a visit yesterday afternoon stretching into today. Robert had so much fun with them!

We all enjoyed a yummy dinner, except for Robert who decided not to eat anything. Punk.

Good-Bye and Hello to the Crib

On Wednesday of this past week, during one of Robert’s cry-fests, Mommy placed Robert in his crib with some books to chill out. Mommy left the room and, thump!, out of the room runs Robert having climbed out of his crib.

That night—after I returned from the class that I teach—we placed a mattress in front of Robert’s crib while he slept. (You can see parts of the mattress in the photos above and below.)

Sitting in the crib, behind bars

This weekend, we resolved to convert the crib into a toddler bed. We bought the conversion kit and parts when we bought the crib before Robert was born. So, after bathtime, with these photos we bade farewell to the crib.

Saying good-bye wasn’t always easy for us parents, but we wanted him to enjoy his final night of the crib.

Saying good-bye to the crib

By the way, Robert wrote on his face with markers

He gives me a quizical look when I suggest that he jump in the crib

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coOSJqmKpoA and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1XpLWS4BC8 to watch directly, alternatively this clip http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDkIP7dDGuY combines the two, but some resolution is lost)

A funny look mid-jump

Landing in the crib with a binky

Afterward, I read him stories and put him to bed for what was supposed to be his final night in the crib.

An Early Morning

Unfortunately, the final night didn’t last very long. He woke a little after 2:30 a.m. I brought him to our bed, but he flipped and flopped for an hour.

Finally, he no longer wanted to endure the bed. He crawled off and walked to the bedroom door. I convinced him to return to his bedroom so that we could read books. Secretly, I planned to re-create a bedtime situation, but after two books, he requested milk and he walked to the kitchen. There, he told me that he was hungry. Well, it was no wonder considering that he skipped dinner the night before. So he enjoyed a snack of goldfish crackers, milk, and toothpaste (he wanted to brush!). Then, it was shortly after 4 a.m. and he was wide awake.

We moved to the living room where his attempts to entertain himself quietly were failing. In my tired state, I turned on some Elmo DVDs. (Thank you for the DVDs, Grandpa and Grandma Pam. They were handy!)

Milk on the couch 5:45 a.m. in the morning. It was chilly, so I made sure that he had a blanket.

I fell asleep on the couch off and on. Thankfully, the girls emerged from their downstairs guest room in the late seven o’clock hour. I deputized Maia and returned to bed.


Morning Adventures

A was able to sleep for a couple more hours in the morning. When I emerged, everyone was health, happy, and hungry. Robert had some Cheerios while I was in bed, but I’m sure that he was hungry, too.

I made eggs all around for breakfast, though once more Robert declined to eat. (Actually, he was distracted because he was accidentally bonked.) Later, I worked on the crib.

First, we discovered that the toddler bed conversion pieces were a cherry wood color whereas our crib is oak-on-pine. We were given the wrong box! We called Lullaby Lane from whom we bought the set; they would accept the return but could not replace it with the proper wood for five months.

Next step, we decided to covert the crib fully into a kid bed. Yes, we bought that kit as well over two years ago. Below, are photos of the crib that I took just before disassembly (you know, in case I ever had to refer to them for reassembly):

Crib - front left

Crib - front right

Unfortunately, we discovered in the conversion kit’s instructions (which were not included in the box, but rather Mommy had to locate on the internet) that this particular kit was made in Italy and the original crib was made in Brazil (which we discovered by reading the label of the crib—those white sticker decals at the mattress line revealed in the these two photos that below!).

Crib - looking down front right

Crib - looking down at back left corner

So, we there were two different kits for the same crib design. The problem is that the national differences in the kits were incompatible; we needed adapter parts which Lullaby Lane no longer carried. Unfortunately, we discovered this after I disassembled the crib. Robert probably never knew.

Auntie Alison took the girls and Robert for a walk and lunch, so fortunately, I had the time to disassemble and reassemble the crib.

Hey, Wake Up!

Robert fell asleep in his stroller around 1:45 p.m. on the way home from lunch (at which, Auntie Alison reported, Robert extended his hunger strike; on the other hand, it was Indian food and was probably too new for him). I transferred him from street-level stroller in front of our house to our bed.

Auntie Alison and the girls returned to their home. I joined Robert in his nap. He probably napped for almost three hours (he needed it!) until nearly 4:45 p.m., but he woke up crying. Mommy comforted him and fed him two bowls of Rice Krispies (his favorite cereal), but he remained incredibly sad and clingy. Daddy was definitely not good enough, and he didn’t really want to be around me.

Mommy persuaded Robert that a walk was in order. Walks usually improve Robert’s mood. As they were walking out the door, Robert looked back at me longingly. He told me that he wanted me to join him. So I prepared to joined their walk. When we asked him where he wanted to go, he said, “Daddy’s car.”

He wanted me to carry him in my arms. I carried him downstairs and, through the garage, we walked to my car parked on the street. Then he wanted to enter my car. (He wanted to “Climb!” into his carseat, but I pushed him up because we were in the street.) He happily sat in his carseat. When we asked where he wanted to go, he said, “Ga-Ga’s house!”

His parents decided not to bother Ga-Ga, so he sat contently and awaited as his parents decided on a destination.


A Happy Ending

Mommy could tell that he was in a happy mood as we drove to dinner at the food court at the Stonestown mall. He didn’t eat too much besides carrots, chicken samples (leading me to order the full meal which he subsequently would not share), and bad french fries, but he loved walking around the mall.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_euSf2xzfk to watch directly)

Finally, for the first time in hours, I saw his beautiful smile. I also saw smiles from people watching him walk, wander, explore, and frolic about. Yes, he was incredibly cute! He was allowed to stay out later than usual because we were all so happy.

Eventually we returned home to bathtime and bed. I was pleased to read him bedtime stories again (third time in twenty-hours) as he sat on my lap. After his sadness waking from his nap, I was glad for some happy alone time.

After a third book, I snapped off his lamp. He turned from his sitting position to hold me as I held him. What a day we had, I told him. “But it’s time to go to sleep, so you can rest.
It’s time to go to sleep, so you can smile tomorrow.
It’s time to go to sleep, so you can laugh tomorrow.
It’s time to go to sleep, so you can play tomorrow.
And it’s time to go to sleep, so that you can make the world a better place
Because you already have.

I love you. Your Mommy loves you.
We are so proud to be your parents.
We are happy that you are our son.
And we are blessed to be a part of your life.”

Then I told him that we he woke up in the morning, “We’ll have more adventures!”

And with that, I put him to bed.

All of the boys watching Daddy's phone

Daddy is surrounded

Daddy holds Timothy on the couch

One of Robert’s favorites games at home is playing with the refrigerator magnets.

Robert plays with magnets

So Christopher joined in the fun.

Robert and Christopher play with magnets

Christopher Ga-Ga read to Robert.

Christopher reads Chicka Chicka Boom Boom to Robert

Turning the page

Now what’s happening?!

What's Robert doing?

(Or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdrcgrX50Rk to watch directly)

Daddy and Timothy Di-Di at the dinner table

It was a very fun evening!

Almost on or almost off

Pushing glasses on

Amused, despite himself

Above are photos of Robert wearing his favorite green sunglasses and below is Robert playing guitar in our hallway.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtR9Ri80sfk to watch directly)

Guitar in the Hallway

Robert loved the drum at Michaela's party

Robert and Michaela at the Zoo watching a tiger

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sk1vU2rznEE and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKKduq-0Uq8 to watch directly)


Also, a balloon lady made a butterfly for Robert. Watch he saw it, he bounced happily and said, “Oh YEAH!” It was so cute!

Playing birthday drum, July 31, 2010, 5:32 p.m.

Playing birthday cymbals

From Brian: For Robert’s birthday, he received a drum and cymbals from Grandpa and Grandma Pam.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PK1F3pfQm00 to watch directly)

Performing for Grandma Carol and Granddad

Guitar and keyboard--a one-boy band

Playing intensely

Playing more intensely

Playing birthday keyboard with Grandma Carol

Doing yoga while Grandma Carol plays keyboard

Preparing to Light the Second Birthday Cake

From Brian: Here are some photos and movies from yesterday’s birthday party.

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EF8WwGOUA0 to watch directly)

Hmmm, let's see how it tastes

Yum!

By the way, the blue on his arm is from a marker

Below is a movie of Christopher Ga-Ga watching the festivities:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qb0Z57pmfA to watch directly)


The party was very exciting, but it tired Robert!

After the party, Robert fell asleep

Daddy admires the cute sleeping birthday boy

One of his very favorite presents was a guitar! Thank you!

A guitar from the Lukes!

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gd0H1Y_ypRE to watch directly)

Playing birthday guitar

A star in the making

Trying to get his stance right

Jammin'

An amused Grandma Carol

Thanks to the Lukes for the guitar! Here’s a bonus video of Robert and Maia:

(or click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uaRVesP3XpA)

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aA2GnoYT_Y
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AODvXWLB2CM
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6J8C2XUq0WE
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B19XgZIZ724
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zw50KH-LOpw
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMBHDEZxNg0
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4Qw_AznfFw
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQz9ITzTVao)

Ta-Da!

Saying Peak-a-Boo to Mommy

Saying Peak-a-Boo to Mommy. Again.

Here’s bonus photo from a weird angle. You might be able to notice his cute striped sock.

Looking Down on His Moose Shirt

Also, here is a photo of Robert standing in front of Grandpa’s former green chair. He loves to climb on and off the chair.

In front of green chair

Here are a couple of photos of Robert beside Grandma Carol’s and Granddad’s pool (under Granddad’s watchful supervision):

Poolside 1, June 19, 2010, 11:35 a.m.

Poolside 2

Finally, here he is laughing as Mommy tickles him on his changing table:

Tickled on the changing table

Later tonight, I read him stories and put him into his crib to sleep. Usually, he goes right to sleep but he sat up in bed and extended his hands and arms to me. He make a noise that sounded like “ahrmh” which I didn’t understand. I gave him a hug and kissed the top of his head. He reached up with his left hand to touch my elbow. “Ehlbowh,” he said. Then he rubbed my arm and said, “ahrmh.” Oh, now I got it! He said, “arm”!

I asked him to “Go to sleep,” and he said, “Go sleep,” then dove into the corner of his crib and went to sleep.

Below are a photo of his peace pajamas (which he didn’t wear tonight):

Peace jammies

Next is a photo of him in peapod pajamas doing some of his favorite things (playing with shoes, drawing, and wearing a hat):

Shoes and Drawing

Mommy and Beanie near the front gate

Daddy and Beanie with the penguins

Penguins are so cool!

From Brian: It’s difficult for me to believe, but Robert’s only been going to zoos for one year! (Recall: http://beanieblog.wordpress.com/2009/07/11/first-visit-to-the-sf-zoo)

(or click youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7j_Y3aiYK8M to watch directly)

Here are more photos from that day:

Stunned

Leaning forward

Pointing

Nice kitty

All done with the photos now

Watching penguins

Daddy, please get out of the way

Seeing live penguins for the very first time

Pensive Beanie

Robert takes over the reading from Mommy

From Brian: Robert loves to read books and loves it when people read books to him.

Daddy reads to Robert for the first time, August 8, 2008, 9:07 p.m.

Mee-Maw and Granddad read to Robert

Daddy reads Hey Wake Up

Mommy reads Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me

Robert unfurls the moon centerfold (his favorite part)

Turning the page

Near the end of the book

Usually, we read three books to him in his rocking chair just before putting him in his crib.

Robert Reads Josh and the Woo Woo under a patriotic cap, June 21, 2010, 11:58 a.m.

Turning the page on Josh and the Woo Woo