Sebastian and Joaquin's Crazy Midwestern Life

Wrestlemania

2012-02-07T16:51:00.000-08:00

Here I am teaching Joaquin how to hold his own against the big boys at the World Wrestling Federation.

We do this about 20 times a day, which is what I believe leads Mama to talk about her Zen moments, like the following:

A New City, a New Year and a New (Blog) Name

2012-01-28T18:11:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Remember me? I wouldn't blame you if you didn't...I've been pretty silent for quite some time. But, then again, I would blame you because I'm just so darn unforgettable. Anyhow, I just wanted to let you know that our blog name is changing. Sebastian and Joaquin's Crazy Mexican Life will be taking a decidedly domestic change of direction- a Midwestern one in fact! The pictures below are a trailer of sorts...of what is to come in the following months as you tag along with us on our new adventures. So stay tuned to Sebastian and Joaquin's Crazy Midwestern Life. And come visit!

I Am A Pizza

2011-03-24T11:16:00.001-07:00

This song has topped the charts in our household! Hope that you enjoy it!

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Summer Shenanigans Part 1: The West Coast is the Best (or so says Mama)

2010-09-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Look who is back! Did you miss me? What a silly question...of course you did! I pondered long and hard about my first post in oh...well, let's just say a very long time. And since a new school year just started, what better way to kick off my (hopefully) new streak of blogging with a look back on what we did this summer.

In late July we headed to Oregon to visit Mama's family and help Grandma celebrate a very special birthday. I won't say how old she turned but let's just say she's still very, very young. We met up with Tia Liz, Tio Amit, Zev and Hayden, who came all the way from Israel for the event; with Tio Eddie, Tia Stacy and their new baby, Alyssa; with Motorcycle Grandpa who came all the way from Washington State; and Grandma and Opa of course who came down from the Central Oregon Coast. We spent 4 nights at a yoga retreat, which my cousin Zev ingeniously labeled "The Hippie House!" Photos of (most) of the gang are below.

The Elusive Opa

The proud grandparents (and parents) with their first granddaughter

The boy cousins, from right to left: Yours Truly, Hayden, Zev and Joaquin

Joaquin, skinny dipping in the river

Tio Eddie, Tia Stacy and Alyssa

Tia Elizabeth with Alyssa

Daddy and me in the hot tub...too hot in the hot tub

Alyssa thinks that Joaquin is hysterical...just wait until he starts stealing her toys!

Daddy with his Michael Chiklis car...he thought that he was on the set of The Shield all week long!

After we departed from the hippie house, we headed on over to my great granddad's house...known to all as Grandad. Yes, we know it's spelled wrong but one can do such things with proper names. All of Mama's cousins...the maternal line that is...obliged by converging on Grandad's house for the weekend. It was hot, hot, hot...over 100 degrees each day...so we mostly just swam in the pool and lounged in the shade...very appropriate for the following cast of shady characters:

Cousin Jude...he was selling watermelon slices for $1 million bucks a piece....nobody was buying.

Tio Ben and his cool hat

Great-Grandma Rita holding her first great granddaughter...after nine great grandsons!

Tia Danielle and Tio Tyler...they are as cool as they look.

Tia Bernadette, Tio Jerrod, Noah and Micah

Two of these kids are not like the others.

Can you believe that only two people are missing from this shot?

Saying goodbye to Grandad's kitten, Earle...even Joaquin learned to say his name!

Micah and Joaquin...they were born only four days apart!

Noah and Hayden

Noah, Hayden and Yours Truly...we were all born within 6 months of each other!

Six of the nine boys in our generation..yeah, we're a good looking bunch.

We even were able to squeeze in a visit with Roy and Donna. You've heard of the term "home away from home." Well, they are like Mama's "parents away from parents."

And that concludes the first installment of Summer Shenanigans. Check back soon for Part Deux.

(Not So)Still Life with Boys- Part 2

2010-03-01T13:44:00.000-08:00

Note to readers: You just have to suffer through one more sappy post from Mama and then we can go back to our semi-regularly scheduled programming: Me!

It's official. I am irrevocably outnumbered. Boys 3-Girl 1. Even if we decided to have a third child, which is not likely to happen, there will be no leveling of the playing field. So what does this mean?

February 2009

It means that I will likely never have a daughter with whom to do girly things. Sebastian likes to put on my lip gloss (something he'll probably adamantly deny in a future post) but the buck stops there. He steadfastly refuses to let me put his lovely locks into a pony tail, stating that "Mommy, colitas (pony tails) are for girls." And Joaquin is 100% boy.

March 2009

It means a lifetime of frogs, snails and puppy dog tails.

April 2009

It means fear of broken bones. Of my mother's three children, only my brother broke a bone during adolescence.

May 2009

It means watching whiskers sprout from their sweet baby faces.

June 1999

It means losing 2/3 of the most important men in my life to other women.

July 2009

It means that someday I will gain two daughters. And perhaps a granddaughter or two.

August 2009

It means watching them suffer silently through their first heartbreaks because, let's be honest here, most men don't like to talk about their deepest feelings, especially not with their mothers.

September 2009

It means countless wrestling matches (real and otherwise) on the living room floor.

October 2009

It means water balloons...lots of them...probably in my living room.

November 2009

It means having to say 100 billion times "stop harassing your brother" in a voice that sounds suspiciously like my own mother's voice.

December 2009

It means, also, watching them grow to be as good as friends as Carlos and his brothers have become as adults.

January 2010

It means smelly socks, muddy tennis shoes, dirty clothes strewn about and "who me?" looks on their faces when I yell about the house being a mess, again in my mother's voice (don't worry Mom, I mean this in the fondest way).

February 2010

It means telling them everyday to stop growing and stay exactly like this...and then standing by helplessly while they flagrantly disobey.

February 23, 2009 (Joaquin's first birthday)

But mostly it means sharing my life with these three men. And what woman wouldn't want that?

(Not So)Still Life with Boys- Part 1

2010-02-28T18:08:00.001-08:00

Note to readers: In an attempt to give a more fair and balanced look at our life, from time to time I will cede the floor to other members of my family. This month's guest editor is my number one girl, Mama. Be kind, she hasn't written much ever since putting her career on hold to raise yours truly and is probably a little rusty.

First there was Carlos. He walked out of the rain and simultaneously into The Big Hunt and my life on a cold January evening. We soon discovered that we had a shared affinity for what he calls female singer/songwriters and what I call "chicks with guitars and pianos." Thus began one of the most effortless friendships of my life. And despite my attempts to remain just friends, seven months later I succumbed to his keen wit, spectacular sense of humor, easy-going manner, disarming smile and, of course, his dark, lash-fringed eyes.

The Courtship

Two years and 4 months later we got married, after a couple of pina coladas, during an afternoon downpour on the beach on the Caribbean isle of Antigua. Thankfully the rain cleared up quickly, allowing us to document the occasion as befits an island wedding:

The Wedding

In just over seven years together, we've managed to pack in a lifetime of experiences. Among the list of highlights are: career changes, graduate school (his PhD trumps my MA), buying a house, two international moves and two children.

The Wait (or The Last Days of Freedom)

As most of you know, the first years of parenthood are not the easiest. But through it all he has proved to be a loving, involved father and is still the smartest and funniest person that I know. He is truly my best (heterosexual male) friend.

Then came Sebastian, who taught me that there really is such a thing as love at first sight. From the day that I first heard his heartbeat and saw his little bumblebee-like form on the sonogram at just 8 weeks gestation until the minutes before his birth on December 27, 2006, I had no idea how much joy one little person could bring to my life. But from the moment that he was first placed in my arms, I knew that I would cry when he first went to school, went on his first date, left for college, got married and had his first child because I could never imagine him being bigger than that sweet little bundle in my arms at the hospital. And although only one of those events has happened so far (and I did cry the first day that he went to preschool), I know that the intervening years will not make any of the rest any easier.

Day One

A horrible sleeper since birth and the world's pickiest eater, he also inherited his dad's sense of humor and his mother's good looks! Perhaps he'll even pick up my modesty. He is whip smart: 100 percent bilingual and has an uncannily accurate memory. He loves to make cookies and cupcakes. His terrible twos were intense but, thankfully, brief- although we are currently in the throes of the bipolar threes. He's incredibly agile. Somersaults were once his specialty but I think that recently he has taken up training to be an Ultimate Fighting Champion (see the video below). He seems to have inherited the nurturing male gene from Carlos: after a rocky first couple of months as an older brother, he is now (mostly) very good to his little brother. And lastly, his current favorite catch phrase is "Feliz Leche!"

Day 757

Rounding out the bunch is Joaquin. For most of my pregnancy, I was afraid that I would not be able to love him as much as I loved Sebastian. My mother-in-law is always saying "I love everyone equally. I'm a Libra!" I never really believed her before but as it turns out, she is right. Even though I'm not a Libra, my fears were totally irrational and unfounded. On February 23, 2009, my heart expanded just enough to fit perfectly around the newest addition to our family.

Day 2

Joaquin inherited his father's beautiful eyes and long lashes and, unfortunately, his mother's temper, which he makes up for with unaccountable sweetness. He is constantly on the move and never stops jibber-jabbering. He thinks that Sebastian is the funniest person in the world. He is an even worse sleeper than his older brother but a much better eater. At a year old, he eats a wider variety of food than Sebastian does. And channeling Adam Sandler in "The Water Boy," he "loves mama!"

Day 366

He is also going to be one tough cookie if he manages to survive his older brother's overzealous affection. I attach exhibit A, Wrestlemania:

Photo of the Day #16: My masterpiece... for sale

2010-01-18T19:27:00.000-08:00

Hola again,

My apologies for not posting the last couple of days... though I need not apologize to my loyal fans. Every hard-working toddler out there needs to take a break every now and again, so I didn't post anything on Saturday and took off on a well-deserved vacation on Sunday. I'll update you on that soon, and catch up on my photos of the day.

But today, I want to talk to you about my masterpiece. It is not yet named, but I may call it "dinero," which (for my non-Spanish speakers) means money. And, yes, it is for sale. But you likely cannot afford it.

See, I had this great idea last week. Thursday, in fact. I was tired of Dada going to work every day, even when I asked him not to. And I recently learned that Dada goes to work to earn dinero, to buy things like potato chips and candy. So, I decided to work on Thursday as well. I painted this picture so that Dada would never work again, and instead stay at home and play with me. I told him all about it Thursday evening and was very sad to see him go to work on Friday. I was confused. But no longer! Now I know that I must sell this beautiful piece of art in order to finance Dada's early retirement.

So... look closely. Bidding starts at midnight. XOXO,

Sebastian

Photo of the Day #15: In lieu of a photo...

2010-01-15T22:26:00.000-08:00

Mama and Dada went out to the movies. And, though I could write extensively, they forced me to go to bed instead. And then signed out of Blogger. Tomorrow should be more interesting for my devoted fans. And Joaquin and I will be sure to wake up extra early to punish them for staying out late tonight...

Photo of the Day #14: Tia Lilly

2010-01-14T18:49:00.000-08:00

Today's entry is all about one of my favorite people, Tia Lilly. It just so happens that the feeling is mutual, as I am one of her favorite people as well. Actually, she probably loves me a whole lot more unconditionally then I love her...mostly because she is so laid back and I demand, well, loads of trips to ice cream parlors when she is around.

Before I even go any further, I have to tell my Tia E, one of my most devoted fans, that she shouldn't feel left out...she too will soon have her own blog entry. But I decided to honor Tia L with her own entry tonight because she is currently interning with the Seattle Times, covering the 2010 Washington State legislative session, and she just published her first entry on the Seattle Times' Politics Northwest blog. You can read it here. And I don't want to spoil the ending but let's just say that Washington State could soon be known for more than just how "high" it's mountains are.

Anyhow, back to Tia Lilly. I first met her when I was 5 months old, when we both went to Florida for my Tio Eddie's wedding in June 2007. Needless to say, she was smitten with me from the start. Here we are on the day we met.

It was a tearful parting as we did not know when we would next see each other since she lived in Washington and I lived in Peru at the time. Little did we know that we would both be seeing much, much, much more of each other in the ensuing year and a half. For you see, in April 2008 she came for a 2 week visit and ended up staying until early June! I'm that irresistible.

Oh what fun we had! We:

played peek-a-boo in the curtains,

had our own photo shoot,

went to the park (could the wagon be any smaller),

wore matching pajamas,

ate toast with jam for breakfast (she made it, I ate it),

ate loads of ice cream,

she taught me how to take off my socks,

and even went camping!

The day that she left in June was very sad and I gave up ice cream in protest...for about 5 minutes. I would have held out longer except that I knew that I would be seeing her again in August in the great state of Oregon. Here she is with my cousins, Zev and Hayden, and I:

I guess that our time in Oregon together was just too short because just a few short weeks later, she was back in Peru! I did tell you that I am irresistible, didn't I? You might want to purchase travel insurance if you ever come to visit me in Mexico to cover the cost of multiple changes to extend your return trip home. I know that Tia Lilly wishes she did! The second time around she stayed for more than 2 months and we had double the amount of fun.

I waited up late for her the night she flew back to Lima.

Here we are engaging in one of our favorite pastimes: hanging out under Tio Nilo's coffee table.

Hanging out on the couch together. Don't worry, I'm actually wearing a diaper.

Hanging out with my lady before she went to the Marine Corps Ball...with someone else!

The last ice cream before she went back to Washington in December....so sad.

But I'm pretty sure that she'll be knocking on our door soon. After all, Spring Break is just around the corner! In the meantime, I'll be scouting out all the best ice cream parlors in town.

Photo of the Day #13: Shalom

2010-01-14T17:37:00.000-08:00

While I generally believe that most of you regularly tune in for the sole purpose of seeing super cute photos of yours truly, I will from time to time post something that illuminates certain aspects of our life abroad. Just think of them as super interesting commercials during regular scheduled programming.

Mexico City is home to an estimated 37,500 Jewish people (about 93% of the Jewish population in all of Mexico) and a good majority of them live in Polanco, our neighborhood. There are many kosher stores and restaurants within walking distance of our apartment and no fewer than 11 synagogues within a 10 minute walk of our apartment, one of the most Orthodox being just a block away. Every Saturday, you can see groups of Jewish people walking down the promenade on Avenida Horacio to Bet El, one of the largest synagogues in the city. Mama captured this picture on a recent Saturday outing with Joaquin.

Photo of the Day #12: Meet Liam!

2010-01-12T18:04:00.000-08:00

Hola amigos,

Not to worry... I am back with another edition of my exciting "photo of the day." As the title notes, I would like you to meet Liam. Or, as I like to call him, "Lem." Liam is a week older than I am but, bless his heart, he's never held that over my head. Instead, we hang out together and try to decide who's favorite color is really purple. (This is a long-standing discussion, which, I must admit, has sometimes led to crying.) We've gone to the zoo together, each other's homes, and really all over town. Just in case our parents are reading this, I won't say where else we've been... but let's just say that my tolerance has improved! And I know the difference between reposado and añejo Tequilas!

Here we are at a favorite watering hole...

Apparently, I must have passed out because now I seem to look like Batman.

A closer look... And yes, I am a trouble magnet.

Can you say Super Friends?

Discussing plans to fight crime later that night...

What I thought was a PRIVATE conversation.

Training. After this rigorous drill, we did innumerable pull-ups.

Hand to hand combat. Gotta keep the skills sharp.

And you kids out there... remember that crime never pays!

XOXO,

Sebastian

Video of the Day #11: Must Eat Camera

2010-01-11T18:55:00.000-08:00

A video of my little brother, Joaquin, engaging in one of his favorite pastimes, trying to pull the camera out of Mama's hand to eat it...this particular instance in August-

Photo of the Day # 10: Swinger

2010-01-10T20:53:00.000-08:00

A photographic history of my affair with swings-

Just a couple of weeks old and already enjoying the swinging lifestyle.

Enjoying a little downtime the day before my 1st birthday!

Two, wild and crazy guys!

Oh wait. These two guys might be even crazier. That's my cousin Hayden to my left (your right).

Swinging solo...my wingman had to work that day.

They even have great swings here in Mexico!

We had to hit the swing set on the only sunny day over Christmas vacation in Morgantown.

I've also included this video for your viewing pleasure:

Video of the Day # 9: Mama and Dada's Liquor Cabinet

2010-01-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

I accessed it while Joaquin acted as the lookout. It worked perfectly. And after a few sips it all started tasting better. By the end of it, I thought Joaquin was the funniest baby in all of Mexico. By the way, has anyone seen my pants?

Photo of the Day # 8: Cry Baby

2010-01-08T21:26:00.000-08:00

I swear, I'm innocent.

Joaquin just found out that Santa doesn't bring bad babies gifts.

Photo of the Day # 7: Grandma and Opa

2010-01-08T05:47:00.000-08:00

We had our first visitors about a month after we arrived in Mexico. Grandma and Opa came down for a week in September. It was a short visit but packed with fun. And next time they are driving down (from Oregon!), so it will be a longer visit.

Here we have Mama, Grandma, Opa and Joaquin at one of our favorite restaurants (also, it is a bookstore), Pendulum. The chilaquiles verdes are to die for!

Opa and Joaquin

Yours truly and Opa

Grandma and Joaquin at our favorite gelato place

Photo of the Day #6: Cupcakes

2010-01-06T18:19:00.000-08:00

I love cupcakes. I love making cupcakes. And most importantly, I love eating cupcakes.

Meanwhile, Dada misses me saying "cupcapes."

Photo of the Day #5: The Maiden Voyage

2010-01-05T20:59:00.000-08:00

Near our apartment here in Mexico City is a huge park, complete with two very dirty ponds, a state of the (play)art playground, an aviary and a large statue of Abraham Lincoln (a gift from the American people to the Mexican people). It is a fairly quiet place during the week but is filled with all manner of people on the weekends: prepared food vendors, fruit and vegetable vendors, craftsmen, young guys hawking cell phone and blackberry covers, balloon vendors, people walking their dogs, people walking their kids, young couples with no other place to go making out on every park bench, little kids in motorized cars terrorizing the people walking their dogs and kids, people floating remote-controlled boats in the filthy ponds...the list goes on and on. And while I love the balloons and ask my parents to let me get behind the wheel of one of the motorized cars, the thing that I love the most is watching the boats. In fact, I've been pestering Mama and Dada for one ever since our first day here back in August. Well, apparently they have an in with Papa Noel (that's Santa Claus to those of you North of the Border), because a fully motorized, remote control boat showed up under our Christmas tree this year. It's a good thing that Santa was able to obtain our forwarding address!

And she's off! I really wanted to break a bottle of champagne on her hull but it mysteriously disappeared.

My first mate and I

I think that Joaquin had something to do with the bottle of champagne going missing. He is clearly drunk.

So happy!

Mama and Joaquin enjoying the cruise

Photo of the Day #4: Machu Picchu

2010-01-04T18:36:00.000-08:00

This is a post that is long overdue...about 15 months overdue that is. One of the best things about living in Peru was the opportunity to travel. And although we didn't travel as much as Mama would have liked, we did go twice to the Sacred Valley. For those of you not in the know, the Sacred Valley is the region of Peru that houses Cusco and Machu Picchu. In September 2008, Mama, Dada, our friends Kiren and Alyssa, and yours truly headed on down to MP to see what all the hype was about. And let me tell you, it truly does deserve to be one of the Wonders of the World. Set atop a mountain ridge that would make you dizzy and with the emerald green Andes as its backdrop, Machu Picchu is spectacular and everyone should see it at least once (maybe even twice!) in their lifetime. I know that I'll go back...and next time I'm hiking the Inca Trail! Who's game? Shall we say 2028?

Here I am with Dada on the grounds of the bed and breakfast where we stayed in the Sacred Valley. When (notice that I did not say if?) you go, you must stay at the Hosteria Rumichaca.

Tia Alyssa and I on the train to Machu Picchu. Look! You can see my reflection in the window.

Mama, Dada and I at MP

I wanted to climb to the top of Huayna Picchu (the mountain in the background) but Mama and Dada wouldn't let me. So I had to settle for climbing to the top of this rock.

Tia Kiren and I- she loves me.

Taking a well-deserved nap- it isn't easy carrying your pregnant mother up and down the steep terraces of Machu Picchu.

Photo of the Day: Day 3

2010-01-03T16:56:00.000-08:00

For Christmas, Mama, Dada, Joaquin and I headed to Morgantown, WV to celebrate with Dada's entire immediate family. It was the first time that everyone was together since 2007...and really, not everyone was present then since my cousin Kiara and Joaquin weren't even born yet. I also saw snow for the first time! 10 days with 8 adults and 5 children in a house together passed without major incident! I'm not sure that it even qualifies as a traditional family holiday without a bit of dysfunction but we all got along swimmingly, though some lessons in sharing were learned the hard way. But hey, that's bound to happen with 3 kids under the age of three hanging out with each other.

I hope that you all had a wonderful holiday season and that 2010 is treating you right so far!

Yours truly at Santa's Village...in Mexico.

Hitting the pinata at my school's Christmas party

My first time in the snow. Right after this picture I threw a snowball at Dada.

Joaquin's first Christmas!

The third generation: Alejandro, Kiara, Joaquin, Alicia and I

Photo of the Day: Day 2

2010-01-02T21:22:00.000-08:00

And speaking of birthdays, I just had one a few days ago! I turned 3 years old on December 27th. Only 13 more years until I can drive, 15 more years until I can vote, 18 more years until I can drink and 62 more years until I can retire. Woo hoo!

As we were in Morgantown, WV for the holidays, we celebrated with Abu and Abuelita, my Tios Luis and Juan, Tias Kitty and Renata, and my cousins Alicia, Alejandro and Kiara. And of course, Mama, Dada and Joaquin. It was a low-key affair with balloons, streamers, ice cream and two cakes! Yes, two cakes!

Cake #1: I helped Mama make this cake.

Cake #2: I love Diego and Dora!

Just doing a little taste test.

The birthday boy with my cousins (Kiara, Alejandro and Alicia), Joaquin and Abu

With Dada, Mama and Joaquin

With Abu and Abuelita- enough with the picture taking. I must have cake!

Photo of the Day: Day 1

2010-01-01T20:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Fans:

Happy New Year! In keeping with tradition, I've made a few resolutions for 2010. I'm going to be cuter, wittier and more fun than ever before...which will be pretty tough to do since I already excel in all those areas. But more important for you, my readers, is that I've promised to blog more regularly. Tougher than losing those last 10 pounds but much easier than kicking cigarettes!

In order to jump start 2010, I am borrowing an idea from my Tia Linsey's blog: Photo of the Day. She posted a picture with a brief description every day in December and I am going to do the same for January. We'll see if my little brother can pick up the slack in February.

And it is fitting that the first photo (or photos as it were) on this first day of of the new year should be of my mama (and yours truly of course). For you see, today is her birthday! Happy birthday Mama! You are just as beautiful as the day we met. Dada taught me that line...he's smooth.

Here I am with Mama when I was just three weeks old. Doesn't she look happy?

And this is a picture of the two of us from just last month.

Another picture of the two of us last month. Don't I look happy?

And now a word from our guest editor

2009-10-28T06:01:00.000-07:00

blah blah blah

blah blah blah

Summer Greetings from the Northern Hemisphere

2009-08-09T18:50:00.000-07:00

Dear friends, family and fans:

Yes, I know that it has been awhile since you last heard from me but in between raising a new little brother, not to mention mama and dada, and making a major intercontinental move, I've been hard pressed to find the time to write. I haven't even had time to finish potty training myself! That's how bad it is. I've also been teaching Joaquin the ins and outs of blogging so that he can be a guest editor from time to time...though you'll have to be patient with him since I am sure that he won't be nearly as witty as yours truly...at least in the beginning. I do have about 2 years and 2 months on him you know.

I have plenty of fodder for future blogs, including: my summer in West Virginia with Abu and Ita, a week spent in Alpine Lake with mama's family, and my last few weeks in Lima (not to mention all of the trips that I took while living in Peru...woe is me, I'm dreadfully behind). In the meantime, however, I hope that a few pictures will tide you over until I can clear a bit of room in my schedule!

Besos,

Sebastian

Joaquin recently mastered the art of sticking out his tongue. What I want to know is why it is so cute at 5 months but later it is considered rude!

Mama and Joaquin. If she looks tired, it is because she hasn't slept in 2.5 years! Please take note of the Inca Kola shirt.

I got some ice cream and you don't have none....

Joaquin and I on our last day in Peru

And finally, Dada, Joaquin and I...aren't we just about the most handsome trio you've ever laid eyes on!

It's a Two-Fer!

2009-06-12T06:48:00.000-07:00

That's right friends! You've been waiting so long, I thought I'd give you a double-dose of my cuteness! My, are you lucky!

Anyway, I've been thinking of working for the phone company, so I thought I'd do some practice runs. You may think I am just talking to myself here, but that's actually Dada on the other line. Enjoy!

So it's been a while...

2009-06-12T05:25:00.000-07:00

My apologies. But raising a baby is tough business! The only thing I find that helps me relax is a little dancing. And, yeah, even though it's winter I don't like wearing pants. Mock me at your own risk!

OK... gotta go change some diapers... Mine and Joaquin's!

XOXO,
Big Brother Sebastian

Time to change the blog title...

2009-03-15T06:54:00.000-07:00

OK... it gives me great pleasure, a mild amount of sadness, and a fair amount of jealousy to announce the re-titling of my blog. I guess I should also take this moment to announce the arrival of my baby brother - Joaquin Mayta Gonzalez Layton, born on Monday, February 23, 2009. But he is a baby in name only. I will never forget the sight of that poor stork flying in through the window carrying Baby Joaquin. It must have really crossed somebody to be stuck carrying such a heavy load! 10 pounds, 2 ounces plus he was 20.5 inches long too! I better start challenging him to basketball games now, because he could start crushing me by his third birthday. Heck, when I walked in on him today he was doing one-handed pushups! (Since what you really want are photos of the new guy, I will appease you below.)

A nice first shot. See? He's smiling!

Here he is in a color close up.

Above you can see one of the early pics of Joaquin. And my goodness, who is that amazing hand model?! Why, it's me!!!

He'll outgrow that worm soon. I still remember back in the day when it used to try to bully me too...

There's Mama and Baby Joaquin just hanging out. Since they'd just recently met, they were getting to know one another and sharing basic info - where are you from, any brothers or sisters, where did you go to school, etc.

Here's Dada with Baby J. He's so boring he'll put anyone to sleep!

Just to clear things up, Joaquin and I are actually good buddies (though I do most of the talking). For example, I give him loads of kisses throughout the day. Even though he hasn't given me one. But I don't hold a grudge. At least not against him.

There's me and Baby Joaquin. Oh, and Dada and Abuelita too.

Here you can see what a wonderful big bro I am. What am I doing? Why, I am sharing stickers (sticks, I call 'em) with my little brother.

And this is one for the ages. How cute are we?!

When they said, "time to go home", I didn't realize that they were talking to both of us!

Overheard conversation:
Me: Do you like see food?
Baby J: audible grunts
Toddler Sea Bass then opens wide to show mouthful of jello

Chillin' at home.

Our games of tag are less exciting than you'd think.

Anyway, I gotta make this post short. Someone's got to change Joaquin's diapers, and it isn't Mama and Dada. Sometimes I feel just like Cinderella...

Yours in servitude,
Big Bro Sebastian

Thought I would save the best shot for last!

Yes, I do bar mitzvahs!

2009-02-22T18:35:00.000-08:00

Amigos, I won't lie to you. I am pretty busy, and apologizing for not posting regularly is a bit tedious. Plus it really hurts my self esteem. You know what makes me feel good about myself? Singing. Lots and lots of singing. I am actually thinking of making it a career. So, time to start broadcasting my skills... For your viewing and listening pleasure, let me present "Estrellita". I'll post "Twinkle, Twinkle" at a later date, but you get the picture.

Oh, and let me introduce my band... On maracas, Abuelita! Backing Vocals, Abuelita and Mama! Lead vocals, percussion, and musical arrangement, Sebastian! How 'bout a round of applause?! On to the show!

XOXO, Toddler (and soon to be big brother) Sebastian

Cool Hand... Sebastian?

2009-01-03T17:42:00.000-08:00

Hola Amigos,

And Happy New Year! Heck, Merry Christmas. And, of course, Happy Birthday to me! (December 27, in case you were wondering... I'll blog about that in detail later.)

Anyway, I'm writing you all to let you know that I did a great Paul Newman impersonation today. Obviously, that's a big deal. Inspired by the movie, I decided to start training to challenge ol' Luke someday. What challenge might that be, you ask? Why, the most important one there is! (See below, if you don't know.)

Anyway, my parents were surprised by my amazing skills, as I ate almost 5 eggs this morning for breakfast (see below to see how I like 'em). In addition, I figured I would have 1 and 1/2 bowls of cereal with milk, and 3-4 servings of craisins to top it off. A regular morning, no? Apparently, I am not expected to eat this much, since I am hovering at the 20th weight percentile for my age group. This seems to have pleased my parents, though they seemed quite worried as to what to eat for breakfast tomorrow since the eggs are gone.

Anyway, for those of you who know my stressed out parents (Mama and Dada to me), I figured I would share the good news. Who knows... maybe I'll be hitting that 25th percentile soon?!

XOXO,

2 year old Sebastian

Memories of summer... for those of you mired in winter

2008-12-21T19:07:00.000-08:00

Amigos,

I know it's been a while since I wrote. And that you've been longing for a new posting. So, especially for you poor saps freezing in the U.S.A., I present this video to remind you that weather is seasonal and that summer will indeed return. Also, please note that I am older (I'll be 2 in less than a week!) and cuter (hard to believe!). This video is from late July on the Oregon coast...

And, if you listen closely, you may find out why they call me Mr. Squeakers!

Lots of love,
Toddler Sebas

Happy (belated) 'Ween!

2008-11-10T16:44:00.000-08:00

That's how all the cool kids are saying it, anyway. And guess who came up with that clever name? That's right... yours truly.

Anyway, I apologize for having taken so long to write about my Halloween, but I just finally came down from that sugar high. And let me tell you, was I grumpy! Let's just say that if you want to give me a lollipop (my favorite -- see above) or some other piece of candy (my other favorite), you better have extra. Toddler Sebas does not appreciate a finite amount of candy. And with money growing on trees, there really is no excuse for not buying me lots. Speaking of... Thanksgiving is coming up. Have you thought of what presents you might send me?

Anyway, as you can see in these photos, I was definitely embracing the spirit of 'Ween. I even wore two different outfits. (Ha, fooled you! I actually wore the orange shirt earlier in 'Ween week.) Anyway, you don't have to tell me how handsome I looked in my Brazilian soccer uniform (thanks Tio Luis and Tia Renata - Happy 'Ween! And a shout out to my prima Kiara!). However, I trust I will still get many comments about my good looks.

This here's a great shot. It's me with my "boys" at school . You wouldn't know it to look at him, but Spiderman really likes to give good hugs.

A close up of me and Dominick on the trampoline at the Embassy. We're super bad!

And lest you believe I don't like the members of the opposite sex, check me out with this chick-y baby! God... I just fell out of my chair laughing at my own pun! I am clever!

Well, seems that the sugar is wearing off again, so I've got to go eat more. Hope you enjoyed the post. And, of course, the 'Ween holiday.

XOXO,
Little Pele (aka Toddler Sebastian)

PS - Here I am with a soccer ball. How cute am I? Very.

A Public Service Announcement

2008-11-04T05:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers:

On this most American of days, I would like to encourage those of you who have not done so already to get to your local polling station and vote. And the first of you lucky ladies to send in your proof of voting wins a special prize:

If exercising your right to democratic participation isn't enough incentive in its own right, I certainly should be.

Ok- have to go take a nap so that I can stay up all night watching the election coverage while Mama and Dada drool on the couch.

XXOO

Sebastian (for President in 2044)

Where have I been?!

2008-10-25T11:19:00.000-07:00

Hola amigos!

I know it has been forever, and I apologize. Truth is someone in my household - I'm not naming names - kept repeatedly turning the computer on and off until it would no longer work. Mama and Dada are hiring someone to fix it, but my last few months of photos are stuck on that inaccessible (big word, right?) hard drive. However, since that unfortunate event, I have had the opportunity to enjoy some fun events that I can share with you, my adoring public.

Most important was my enrollment in school. That's right, I'm a big boy now. (Though I still soil myself.) I started on September 1, and did not know what to expect. In fact, I thought we were just going to the park. Mama and Dada tricked me good that day. I was wondering why they were taking so many pictures. I assumed it was because I am so good looking. Like here:

And here I am driving myself to school. Dada was somehow able to keep up. He must be quite the marathon runner!

Finally, a little video to show off my driving skills. Had I known I was going to school instead of the park, as I had been led to believe, you might have seen me demonstrate some of my evasive maneuvers.

And, lastly, there I am again. Already a teacher's pet!

I will write more soon. I promise!

XOXO,

Toddler Sebastian

My Pearly Whites

2008-07-26T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hello friends, family and fans:

I've been super busy lately packing bags for myself, Mama and Dada (they can't do anything for themselves). We are leaving tonight to go on a 3 week whirlwind tour of Oregon, West Virginia and the Greater Washington, DC area. I really hope that Mama and Dada sleep through the flights. They are horrible travelers.

Anyhow, before we leave I thought that I would leave you with something to get you through the next few weeks with no news from yours truly. The subject: my outstanding teeth brushing abilities!

Step 1: Wet the toothbrush

As you may or may not know, I've drawn a mixed bag of genetics as far as my teeth are concerned. Dada has super strong teeth with hardly a cavity or filling in sight. However, Mama has what we like to call around our house the 10K mouth. Five root canals later, she has developed a fondness for her dentist, even contemplating at one point naming me after him. Thank goodness she came to her senses or you would be reading the words of Reuben Yedigarian Gonzalez Layton. And I thought that my current name was a mouthful! No pun intended.

Step 2: Insert toothbrush in mouth and brush vigorously

So, needless to say, I need to hedge my bets and take very good care of my teeth. I know that those that I have (all 16 of them) will eventually fall out in a few years and will be spirited away to some magical kingdom (Disneyland, perhaps) by a wondrous being called the Tooth Fairy. Mama and Dada have told me all about her and how she left a dollar for each tooth that they lost. I just hope that she has factored inflation into her payouts. I mean, a dollar doesn't buy much these days.

Step 3: Keep brushing- 3 to 4 minutes is best

So, without further ado, I leave you with a couple pictures and a video of my perfected teeth brushing skills. Until next time, stay sane, healthy, happy and floss those chompers!

Step 4: Smile!

See this instructional video for more detailed information:

Besos,

SGGL

Hasta Luego Calebcito!

2008-06-24T05:59:00.000-07:00

Dear friends, relatives and other fans:

You'll have to excuse me if this post seems a bit melancholy but we've reached that inevitable point in a baby's foreign service career when he has to say goodbye to a dear friend. Well folks, that time came for me last Sunday when I had to say goodbye to my best buddy Caleb...and his Dad (Kenny), Mom (one of my best ladies, Linsey), and baby brother Isaac.

I first met Caleb at his first birthday party (see incriminating photo), when I was just 1 month old. Considering that Mama and Dada had met his Mommy and Daddy months before and how well we have gotten along since that day, it is down right criminal that we did not meet sooner.

Over the ensuing months, we chased the chicks together (both Abuelito Pablo and Uncle Jamie would be proud),

discussed world politics,

volunteered at the local old folk's home,

painted the town red in our best clubbing clothes,

composed some rockin' tunes (our first cd is due out next fall, stay tuned for details on our cd release party),

and took road trips together.

But one of my favorite memories of Caleb and his family is when we spent Labor Day (the international one, celebrated on May 1st, not the American one) having a picnic, playing soccer and trying to keep our parents from jumping into the pond at a local park. You can read his mom's version of the day's events here: http://ramblesandruminations.blogspot.com/2008/05/may-day-is-lei-day.html. But I have to warn you that her version isn't quite accurate since she says that it was really Caleb who wanted to jump in the pond and not her.

Linsey, Caleb, Kenny, Baby Isaac, Dada and Yours Truly

Kenny and Baby Isaac (Uncle Kenny, if you are reading this, Dada really misses you. Now he has nobody to share is Coke Zero obsession or take leisurely lunches with at Tierra Santa. Also, Mama says that you took the good hummus karma with you.)

Yours Truly and Baby Isaac (I love babies!)

Mama and I (that's an olive tree in the background, the park is full of them).

Limsey and Baby Isaac

Yours Truly and Linsey. I love her! She makes me laugh. (Aunt Linsey, I know you are reading this, so I thought that I would let you know that Mama really, really, really misses you.)

But sadly, all good things must come to an end (at least temporarily anyway, our paths will no doubt cross again soon) and so it was that I found myself on a grey, drizzling Lima evening bidding, not adios, but hasta luego (that's see you later to those of you North of the equator and then some) to our dear friends. I would have liked to have indulged in my sadness but Mama and Dada were grief-stricken and so I had to be strong for them and put on my best game face. So, in closing I leave you with a couple of photos of our last moments with our friends before they hopped on a jet plane to Venezuela, with a 2 month stop-over in D.C. and Utah, where they will be rubbing elbows with international luminaries and statesmen such as Hugo Chavez. Lucky them!

Yours Truly standing forlornly at their gate waiting to enter and see them for the last time.

Secure in our manhood

He is even more secure...and coordinated too!

Hanging on the stairs (I made sure to fall off these one more time just for old times sake).

Consoling Dada on those same stairs

One last shot of the whole group (isn't Linsey's new haircut sassy!)

Caleb, Linsey, Kenny and Baby Isaac, wherever you are tonight, good luck, godspeed and we'll see you in Los Roques!

Hasta la proxima,

Sebastian

Mother's Day in the Motherland

2008-05-16T08:39:00.001-07:00

Surprise! Two blog entries in as many days! You must all think that you've won the lottery. Anyhow, I just wanted to give you a quick update on how we spent Mother's Day #2 here in the Motherland. First, Dada and I let Mama sleep in. She slept for 3 straight hours! I couldn't believe it. I mean, that is three hours less that she got to spend with me on the holiest of all days. While she was sleeping, however, I did get to hang out with my super cool cousins, Alicia and Alejandro, and my Tio Juan.

My prima Alicia and I. Aren't we adorable?

Tio Juan and I hanging out in our pajamas.

After Mama and Tia Kitty (who isn't pictured here but deserves mad props for being Super Mom) woke up and had a couple cups of coffee, we all headed down to the Botanical Gardens near the Capitol Building. If you have never been, then you shouldn't wait any longer. A little piece of the jungle/forest/desert exists right in the middle of downtown DC. But my favorite part was the scent exhibit. It was almost too much for my young olfactory system to handle!

The Botanical Gardens (with Capitol Building to the left)

The celebrated lady and I. Doesn't she look refreshed? It's amazing what 3 extra hours of sleep can do.

The scent garden

Some beautiful orchids

Mama and I acting up

The main atrium- a baby could get lost in here.

My primos, Alicia and Alejandro, and I learning a bit about the nature around us.

A close-up of yours truly

Dada deserves special mention because even though it was Mama and Dada's anniversary as well (4 years!), he ceded all honors and spoils to Mother's Day. Smart move, if you ask me. And last but not least, Abuelito Pablo deserves a special shout-out since it was his birthday also!

The original tree hugger in action

Until next time,

Baby Sebastian

Our Village Idiot

2008-05-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

Warning: What you are about to read may not be for the politically correct or staunchly conservative among my fans.

There comes a time in every baby's life when he must make his first political stand. Well, fans and loved ones, that time has come. As I was watching CNN this morning over breakfast, the lead story spurred me to emerge briefly from my much deserved vacation. As you may already have ascertained by the title of this entry, it concerns our Commander-in-Chaos, our Duke of Dumb, our Icon of Ineptitude, our President of Poo Poo (and believe you me, I know alot about poo poo), yes ladies and gentlemen, step right up, the one and only George W. Bush.

Anyway, while I was minding my own business eating a delicious waffle lovingly prepared by the staff at Homewood Suites (product placement, yes, someone has to pay for this blog..oh wait, it's free you say...), I learned that in a speech before the Israeli Knesset on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Israel's independence, he "suggested" that Barack Obama and other Democrats wanted to appease terrorists and that they were naive in their understanding of the situation. For more details, click on this link to the original story: http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/05/15/bush-suggests-obama-wants-appeasement-of-terrorists/#more-7138

Again, does anyone not notice the dirty diaper in the room? He's obviously full of, well to put it in polite terms, poo poo. What has the world come to if politicians who support diplomatic solutions to international conflicts are deemed to be spineless and naive?

On that note, I will leave you with a few pictures of my charming self, Mama and Tio Eddie on our Nation's Mall. I may not have been born here but I love this place!

Tio Eddie and I at the World War II Memorial (Lincoln Memorial in background)

Teaching Tio Eddie to walk, alongside the Reflecting Pool

Tio Eddie and I in front of the Lincoln Memorial

The Good Man himself...well, memorialized in stone anyway. This is Mama's favorite monument.

A closer inspection for those of you who forgot to put your reading glasses on.

Yours truly, flagrantly disregarding the rules. Can't let the military-industrial complex keep you down, man.

And speaking of the original Military-Industrial Complex, isn't it lovely? Tio Eddie says that this whole scene was just created for the movie Forrest Gump, but I have my doubts. Maybe if you look close enough you can see Jen-ay emerging from the Reflecting Pool.

Mama and I

Now, back to that vacation.

XXOO, Baby Sebastian

You should see the other guy!

2008-05-02T15:45:00.000-07:00

Hola amigos,

Sorry for the latest communication delay. We must be in some weird time warp here in Lima, because I am blogging about an event that took place in January. Yet, it is news to you in May. Bizarre!

Anyway, I was walking around a rough-and-tumble neighborhood (you've seen the video evidence of my walking prowess... and now I go backwards!) when I saw this huge gorilla of a man attacking a poor helpless weakling. In case you know my Tio Luis, he was built similarly...

Anyway, since Mommy and Daddy have taught me right from wrong, I stepped in to defend this poor sap. Well, that sucker got one lucky shot in, but I beat him good. I only wish I could have held him long enough to photograph his wounds.

For now, you can only see mine... here. Though Mommy and Daddy have been telling folks I fell and hit my head against the corner of the bed. Liars!

In this shot, I am reenacting how I bit into the thug's nose. I gave the same mean look too! I think he wet himself worse than I do on a daily basis.

Here's a shot of me and the original tough guy... Daddy.

Anyway, that's it for this short post. But there will be more to come... promise. And please, no more pictures!

Muchos smooches,

Baby Sebastian

P.S. - Bet you didn't know I could fly!

Beating the heat in Lima

2008-04-08T19:33:00.000-07:00

Now, I know that it has been awhile since all of you, my dedicated fans, have heard from me. But to be fair, it has been way too hot here in Lima to write. So at the risk of being insensitive to those of you who have suffered through the worst that winter has to throw at you - especially Tio Eddie and Tia Stacy up in Rochester, NY - I have decided to put together a short photo essay about the ways that I have been coping with the Limeno summer.

First and foremost in any plan to keep cool is to rent a beach house and spend at least a month just chillin'. Here are a couple photos of me enjoying the pool overlooking Bujama Beach, one with my Tio Nilo and another with Mama.

The second step is to eat ice cream...lots of it.

Of course, Daddy has a difficult time keeping his face clean. And he really hates it when I make fun of him. But hey, isn't imitation the ultimate form of flattery?

If there is no pool or beach to be found nearby, the next best thing to do is either fill up the kitchen sink and splash around gleefully or take a bubble bath (no that is not product placement, though Johnson and Johnson should put some money in my college fund for pushing its wares).

And when all else fails, your best bet is to run around half-naked....or heck, completely naked.

To all the girls I've loved before...

2008-02-14T16:31:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I bet that you are surprised to hear from me so soon. But the spirit of Valentine's day moves within me, compelling me to send a special message to all the special ladies in my life.

Now, in addition to the lovely ladies already mentioned in the post regarding my trip to the Motherland (http://mrsqueakers.blogspot.com/2007/09/usa-update-part-ii.html), I would like to give a shout out to some of the ladies I have met here in Peru.

First and foremost there is my very favorite girlfriend, Rory. Living three blocks away, she is the consummate girl "almost" next door. I can't remember a time when she wasn't in my life...we go way back, having met when I was only one day ole. I've included a picture of her stealing a kiss, something she does quite often. Can you believe that her dad, also pictured here, lets her get away with it! I'm very glad that the Peruvian authorities prohibit foreigners from bringing shot guns with them.

By the way, her mom is pretty hot as well. Here is a picture of Beth and I out to lunch way back in my 7th month. Can anyone say Mrs. Robinson?

Next up is my girl Naomi. Fortunately she and Rory are friends, so I get to see both of them quite frequently. Unfortunately, she is only here for another 4.5 months, so I'm trying to see has much of her as I can, when she isn't busy jetsetting around Peru. I've included a picture of her...trying to steal a kiss. Is anyone beginning to notice a pattern here? Now her mom, Lori, is a tall drink of water. But unfortunately, I don't have any picture of her and I...something that we are going to have to remedy.

Then we have sweet Lillian. Now, the first few times that I walked into the room, she would scream as if the Beatles or Elvis had just walked into the room. Now, I know that I am good-looking and thoroughly irresistible but I do try to maintain a low profile.

And did I mention that her mom, Lis, is quite the looker as well. Here we are, celebrating her birthday. She swore me to secrecy, though, so I can't tell you how old she is. Let's just say that she is still super young.

I usually like to stick to girls my own age, but this next lady is someone very special. She makes me laugh. And she deserves special mention since she just went through 9.5 months and 5.5 hours of effort to bring me a new friend, Issac, who is just a little over 3 weeks old but I can't wait to teach him all my tricks for wooing the ladies. But back to Linsey: here we are getting cozy just before she left in December. I've missed her so and am looking forward to her return in just a few short weeks.

And last but not least, is my number one girl....mama. She's the best!

All you ladies who I haven't mentioned yet, don't fret. I've run out of time because I have to go program the t.v. so that my parents can watch Lost and then have to pack for my big trip to Arequipa tomorrow. But some near future post will be dedicated to the rest of you...you know who you are.

In closing, I have included a recent and super cute photo of me.

Thinking of you all on this very special day.

XOXO,

Baby Sebastian

These boots were made for walkin'

2008-02-09T15:46:00.000-08:00

Ok, Ok- so they aren't exactly boots but a pair of very stylish Robeez, Monkey Feet to be exact. I am happy to report that on Christmas Eve I started taking my first steps and haven't stopped since. And while my gait is still similar to that of a drunken sailor, running is no doubt just around the corner....much to my parent's chagrin.

For your viewing pleasure, I have included a very cute video (ok, 2 videos) of me being...well, very cute.

So watch out, because one of these days these Robeez are gonna walk all over you.

XOXO,

Sebastian

P.S. - Na na na

My birthday - belated

2008-02-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

Now, I don't want you to think this post title means my parents forgot my birthday because they didn't. Heck, I know you all celebrated my Bday in your own special ways. What is belated is only this update. One of many belated updates I need to post.

Anyway, here in Peru we celebrated in style, with lots of amigos and their parents over to my casa for a rocking party. Unfortunately, my parents nixed the idea of vodka-infused cake. What can I say, they are super square. This photo here is a small slice of my guests, all roaming and playing and having a merry time. Really, December 27 is truly a day for celebration.

But wait, there's more (and I am not talking about a second set of steak knives, free... though you can help yourselves to my parents' set if you really want some). Most importantly, there's me doing my happy dance while the gang sang Happy Birthday. Now, just because I hadn't had a birthday before doesn't mean I didn't know the song. I am a very popular guest at toddler birthdays, I'll have you know.

Now, the cake was pretty good. It was a carrot cake and both sweet, yummy, and comparatively healthy. However, I need to tell you about a much more important, and tasty, discovery. They're called "cookies". Specifically, "chocolate chip cookies". Now that may be a silly name, and definitely way too long. But, you can call them whatever you want so long as I can have an endless supply of them. I demand these treats on a regular basis. Again, let me state that these things are awesome and you should definitely try them. You won't be disappointed.

Anyway, more photos and cute dialogue. Here's what every parent wants -- a cute photo with their child on their birthday. I've got a big smile b/c I am still thinking about those cookies.

Meanwhile, every child wants a super cool trike on their birthday! Thanks Abuelitos Pablo and Olga!

Well, thanks for checking in! My birthday was awesome. Best one I've had so far. Of course, it woulda been better had all my friends from around the globe been able to join me. Maybe next year. For now, I say ADIOS. And, please, do not forget to try cookies. They are really, really good!

XOXO,

The 1 year old Sea Bass

July update?!

2007-12-16T09:28:00.000-08:00

Hola amigos,

Now, you may be thinking… has Baby Sebastian found the fountain of youth? This photo makes him look so young. I thought he was older. Well, first let me thank you for the compliment. I know I have beautifully soft and supple skin, with no wrinkles or smile lines to speak of. How do I do it, you ask? I stick to a daily regimen of Aveeno baby moisturizer mixed with copious amounts of rice cereal, baby yoghurt, blended sweet potato, carrots, apples and pears all spread over my face at meal time. It really does the trick.

However, in this case, I am also including photos from waaaay back in July, during my 7th month. You see, I have been remiss in updating this blog, so I need to inform you of significant past events. Anyway, back in July, Tio Luis and Tia Renata (these are actual family members now, not that my other “tios” aren’t close to my heart too) came to Lima to meet me. (There's the three of us there on the right.) And who wouldn’t want to do that? Anyway, we had a great time, telling stories, drinking ‘til dawn, carousing, and generally having a good time while Mommy and Daddy slept.

They came to visit from Brazil, so you can imagine their surprise when they realized I didn’t wear speedo diapers. But we are more modest here in Peru. But I look forward to streaking down Corcovado beach some day soon.

This is me with Tio Luis sharing a moment. I was reading his palm - yes, I have many talents. Turns out his younger brother will actually get even better looking with age. Don't know exactly why that info was hidden in his palm though...

This is a lovely photo of me with Daddy and Tio Luis. (What you can’t see is the plate I am levitating with my mind.) It really is amazing they are brothers, considering how much better looking Daddy is. Oh well, at least he found Tia Renata. Otherwise, he would probably be living under a bridge somewhere eating billy goats.

Here’s me with Tia Renata. I do believe we make a cute couple. She’s just a little too tall for me. Gotta keep eating those blended carrots and sweet potatoes…

This is when I had to teach Tio Luis a lesson about respecting my authority. I can’t quite remember what he said, but I assumed it was a smart-ass remark and promptly decided to tackle him. This shot captures the event perfectly… his surprise at how quickly I leapt from my chair and dropped the hammer right on his head. I hit him with such force that his chair tipped over and it took my parents and a couple of wait staff to pull me off him as I pounded him with my tiny fists. That’s how I remember it, anyway. We’re good friends now, though.

How did this get in here?! Damn paparazzi won’t leave me alone – I can’t even eat a meal in peace. Now I know exactly how Brad Pitt feels, except that I’m better looking.

Honestly, I’m gonna have to talk to my crack team of lawyers. This is just a massive invasion of privacy.

Missing: Super Cute Baby

2007-12-05T17:14:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

Now I know I shouldn't be laughing about this, because Mommy and Daddy were quite scared... but I hid so well that they couldn't find me anywhere. I tried to contain my laughter, but failed miserably... much like Abuelito Pablo fails to drink just one Jack Daniels. Anyway, once I started seeing my face on milk cartons here (ultrapasteurized by the way... the stuff lasts years, and tastes like liquid cardboard), I felt bad and came out of hiding.

I think a future as a superspy awaits...

XOXO,
Baby S

And the number one reason that it is good not to be French....

2007-12-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

...is that I get to do this....

And for all of you concerned readers, don't worry, this bidet has NEVER, EVER been used in its official capacity.

It also attracts some of the local fauna, as shown in the following video.

Until next time,

Baby Sebastian

Watch out Scalia...

2007-11-04T16:57:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone: I just wanted to take a moment away from my very, busy social schedule to send a big round of applause for my Uncle Jamie. Recently he found out that he passed both the New York and the Massachusetts Baaaahr Exam. What? No! My spelling skills are fine...acute really. That's just how they spell Bar in Massachusetts. Geez.

Anyhow, for those of you not in the know, Uncle Jamie makes up one third of the AU SIS Terrible Trio (Tia Meri and Mommy being the other two thirds). They all met in Professor Doug Little's Econ class their first semester in grad school. They've been inseparable ever since...or at least were until Mommy moved to Peru. They have all sorts of geeky inside jokes about diminishing marginal returns about the world's oldest profession. But I digress...after Mommy and Tia Meri finished school, Uncle Jamie decided that one graduate degree just wasn't enough and decided to postpone entering the real world for awhile by signing up for Law School! He graduated in May and is now clerking for some hot shot judge on the Massachusettes Appeals Court.

Here is a picture of him with Tia Meri at her wedding last month.

Way to go Uncle Jamie! We are all so proud of you. You are an inspiration to babies everywhere!

Another One Bites the Dust

2007-10-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

I would just like to give a shout out to my Tios Mike and Merideth, who got married yesterday. I really wanted to go to the wedding, mostly to object since Tia Meri is one hot mama (though not my mama) but Mommy and Daddy don't give me enough allowance to pay for a ticket and, suspecting what I was up to, took away my credit card.

To refresh your memory (since they visited me a few months back), here is a picture of the happy couple, who should be ensconced in a honeymoon villa in the Dominican Republic, pina coladas in hand, by now.

Congrats Tia Meri and Tio Mike! Mommy, Daddy and I send you all of our best wishes for a long and happy life together.

Besitos (especially to Tia Meri), Baby Sebastian

Dragon Spotted in Peru

2007-10-28T16:27:00.000-07:00

Know, I know what you are thinking: "There are no such things as dragons. They are mythical creatures, the stuff of dreams and J.R.R. Tolkien novels." But believe you me, I am no hobbit (keep all your short jokes to yourself, I'll grow!) and a real live, fire breathing dragon terrorized a function at the U.S. Embassy on Friday. I managed to snap a few pictures of it and am giving you, the reader, a first look before selling the pictures to the AP or, better yet, People magazine. Be forewarned, however, that these pictures are seriously scary. So if you scare easily, you may want to avert your eyes.

First up is a picture of my mommy with the dragon sitting on her lap. Doesn't she know how dangerous they are! Fortunately, I was there to save her.

Next is a picture of my daddy with the dragon. As you can see, he is fending it off with his magic work badge. But boy does that dragon look mean and hungry. It's a good thing that there were no small children or animals around.

Now, it is a little known fact that the only other animal that a dragon gets along with is the giraffe. In fact, giraffes have a calming power over dragons. So, if you are ever being chased by a dragon, make a beeline for the nearest zoo. Here is a picture of Caleb the Giraffe, a.k.a. The Dragon Tamer.

And just so you see how scary the dragon really is in his full glory, I have included this picture of him rearing up on his hind legs.

The scariest part of the whole day (well, for my parents but not for me) was when he followed us home and tried to eat my Tio Nilo (that's our neighbor for those of you not in the know). Despite the fact that he is responsible for the security of Peace Corps volunteers in all of South America and should be immune to dragons, he was terrified.

And finally, I managed to capture the dragon on video. As you will see, Godzilla has nothing on him.

That's all for know, dear reader. Until next time, keep your heads up and be on the lookout for dragons and tigers and bears, oh my!

A Semi-Recent Update on My Latest Moves (Literally!)

2007-10-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hola Amigos!

Look at that... I am actually updating this thing a little quicker this time. It's all due to that little thing I call "baby dedication". You may or may not know what it is, but you almost certainly don't have it. (Except for you babies out there...) Anyway, this here is me during my early crawling stage - way back in late August. Really, that was 1/5 of my life ago. It would be like 10 years ago for all you old timers! (I'm talking to you Grandpa Ed! Don't forget to wear your slippers out on the town again!) I went to the Military School of Crawling, hence my crawling very close to the ground. Really, we trained with live fire! It was pretty scary, even for a tough baby like me.

Now, here's a more recent video of my crawling. I call this my rebellious, long-haired hippy crawling. (Is that another reference to Grandpa Ed? I'm not sure...) Basically, I forgot everything they taught me in Military School about laying close to the ground and moving slowly, plus my hair is longer... If it looks like I am moving super fast, it's because I am. That tap you just felt on your shoulder... that was me too.

OK, I'm keeping this short, and ever so sweet. Much love to all my adoring fans. XOXO,

Baby Sebastian (The Speed Demon)

The Much-Awaited Conclusion of the USA Trip Trilogy!

2007-10-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

Hey, Hey, Hey

First, I need to give a shout out to Tia Liz, who has been complaining for quite some time about the missing update on my Florida trip. I appreciate all sorts of fan mail, and Tia Liz is apparently one of my biggest fans (based on number of comments).

Without further ado, I present to you the last installment in my trilogy “Sebastian’s Visit to the Motherland.” At some point I promise you that I will be updating this blog on a more regular basis so that you are reading about what happened last week instead of 4 months ago, but hey, cut me some slack, it’s hard work raising my parents. For example, mommy just started doing some consulting for the World Bank again and I have been helping her read through important documents about the quality of education in Colombia. (I am assuming the quality has improved since they taught my Abuelito all sorts of crazy things.)

After leaving the DC area, we headed to Boca Raton, Florida to attend my Tio Loco’s wedding. While there, I got to meet my mommy’s family. Well, really they got to meet me…something that they had all been eagerly awaiting for months. And hey, who can blame them? I am, after all, super cute and very witty as you well know.

Anyhow, it turns out that my Tio Loco (that’s Eddie for those of you who don’t know him), despite being a bit crazy, actually has pretty good taste in women. I present you with exhibit A: the pretty lady here is his bride, Stacy.

And just to show you how well he cleans up, see Exhibit B: isn’t that a snazzy tux that he is wearing.

Next up is a picture of my first meeting with Tio Loco. If I look a bit pensive, it’s mostly because I had already met Tia Stacy and I was having a hard time figuring out what she saw in this guy. I mean, she could do soooo much better…I, after all, am available. As is Grandpa, who, besides being so handsome, is crazy about me. (But not yet crazy.)

Then there is my Tia Lillian. She is a big shot sports editor for her local newspaper. What! You’ve never heard of the Methow Valley News? I know that you spend all of your time reading this blog, but really, you should get out a little more. She’s single too by the way.

This here is a picture of Tio Amit and Daddy before heading out for a long night of debauchery. They aren’t spilling the beans on the details of Tio Loco’s bachelor night but….???

Perhaps the best part of my stay in Florida was finally meeting my cousins Zev and Hayden. We had a great time, staying up late, sneaking out after our parents went to bed, and dancing up a storm at the wedding. I’m pretty sad, though, because they just moved to Albania, which I am pretty sure is a million miles away. (I’m not sure if that’s where albinos are from, but I think it might be.) Here is a picture of Zev wearing Grandpa’s shoes. He’s still trying to take them off.

And here is a picture of me and my cousin Hayden sleeping off a hangover. I’d like to point out how much bigger than him I am despite the fact that he is 5 weeks older. Actually, the night before I beat him soundly in an arm wrestling match.

Next is a super cute picture of me. Now, I never claimed to be a teetotaler (just super cute), so make whatever inferences you like. But imagine being at a bar with a bunch of adults speaking gibberish. You'd be bored, wouldn't you? Bored enough to drink?! To quote Abuelito, "(I) Rest my case."

No trip to the U.S. is complete without a pilgrimage to The Cheesecake Factory. We arrived about a ½ hour before they opened, though, so we were starving by the time we sat down. Daddy tried to eat Tia Lily but our hero, me, baby Sebastian, jumped in and saved her in the nick of time. I did the world a huge favor, really, since it would be a much darker place without her at the helm of the Methow Valley News sports department. Who would provide the latest breaking news on the latest high school wrestling match?!

And because no entry would be complete without showing off how good-looking my parents are, look no further. Doesn’t mommy look lovely. I’m crying, of course, because as of an hour before this photo was taken, Tia Stacy said “I do,” officially taking herself off the market.

And Daddy looked so handsome that day that he gave me a run for my money. Hence, I tried to mar his good looks by chewing off his nose. It didn’t work, though. Alas, his nose is still intact… for now.

And although Daddy is pretty handsome, here is further proof that my good looks come mostly from Mommy’s side of the family. Mommy’s sisters, Tia Lily and Tia Elizabeth, are so good-looking you could, as my Tio Nilo likes to say, “put them on a plate and eat them.” Don’t worry, he isn’t related to them though, which makes him a little less creepy but not much.

And while we are on the topic of good looks, let’s have a big round of applause for the generation that started it all. That’s me with Great-Grandad. You can’t see it in the picture but he’s got the nicest baby blues this side of…well, anywhere and everywhere.

And this here is Great-Grandma Rita. Thankfully I inherited her high cheekbones and naturally slim physique. In order to truly inherit all of her qualities, I was trying to eat her, but I never expected to be photographed in flagranti delicto! (Yes, I speak Latin. Surprised?!)

Here we have my Tia Piolin (that’s Aunt Tweety Bird to those of you who don’t speak Spanish) and Tio Jerrod. Actually, Tia Piolin is my mommy’s first cousin, which technically makes her my first cousin once removed (FCOR), but she’ll always be an Auntie to me. That good-looking kid in the picture is my second cousin Noah.

Not pictured here, but equally has good-looking are my Grandma Sherrie, Opa Andy, Tia Stephanie (again, my FCOR) and Tio Scott. He’s a big, bad policeman in Tampa so all of you hooligans watch out if you decide to whoop it up gangsta-style in Ybor City.

The funniest guy of all, though, is my Great-Grandpa Leo. He tells the best jokes that side of Colombia. (After all, my Abuelito Pablo is hilarious. Granted, much of that is unintentional...)

My Tio Amit is the lucky guy who happens to be married to my Tia Elizabeth. In case you are wondering why I look a bit worried in this photo, Tio Amit had just asked if he could borrow one of my diapers.

And rounding out this photo essay is a picture of me with my first cousins Zev and Hayden and my second cousins Noah and Nolan. Now ladies, don’t fret. We are all single. You don’t have to fight over us. Plus, there is one handsome dude to add to the mix: unfortunately my second cousin Jude couldn’t make it but I am definitely looking forward to meeting him when I make my first big trip to Oregon.

P.S. Despite all my disparaging remarks about my Tio Loco, he’s actually a pretty cool cat. I was just jealous that he happened to meet Tia Stacy before I was even born. I mean, talk about an uneven playing field...

Sign Up for Email Updates!!!

2007-10-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Hola Amigos,

Sorry for a lack of updates recently. I promise Part III of my USA visit will be posted soon. For now, however, I wanted to inform you of a cool new feature of my blog. Basically, you can enter your email in the box to the left and receive emails every time I update my blog. Modern technology is wonderful, and you should embrace it!

Now you can receive updates automatically every time I am inspired to post some deep thought on my blog, instead of checking it 5 times a day. However, I still encourage you to check it daily just to see lovely pictures of me.

Anyway, that's all for now. Sign up and tell your friends. Take out ads in the Washington Post. Heck, even the Dominion Post (that's a shout out to all you in Morgantown!).

XOXO,
Baby Sebastian

USA Update Part II

2007-09-08T19:09:00.000-07:00

Hey Hey Hey,

Sorry for the delay, but I've been a busy little baby lately. I took Mommy and Daddy to Cusco and the Sacred Valley last weekend, which was cool. Plus, I have perfected the art of sitting up, and am getting pretty good at crawling too. Nevetheless, a baby as talented as me should be better able to multi-task and update his blog more frequently. My bad. Mi malo. (That doesn't actually translate correctly, but I'm a baby. And a bilingual one at that... so back off.)

So... back to updating you on my visit to explore my roots. After going to Maine, you'd think I would explore some important places in U.S. history, since this was my maiden voyage to the motherland. Perhaps the Liberty Bell, Gettysburg, or Mt. Vernon. Ha! No history or culture for me. Instead, I went to visit my adoring throng of fans in our nation's capital and surrounding suburbs (Alexandria, Arlington, McLean) and boonies (Potomac Falls).

First, I went out with Mommy to see her World Bank friends. Now I am not sure exactly how the world bank works, but my guess is that they offer banking, loans, mortgages and ATMs to people all over the world, kinda like the Bank of America does in the U.S. (Makes sense, right?) What I do know for certain is that Mommy's friends are some pretty foxy ladies. This picture works for many reasons... particularly, because I am in the middle of a throng of lovely ladies and they are fawning over me. I will definitely take it to play group and brag to the other babies.

After that, we went to the National Academy of Sciences where I met Tia Rebecca. She was super cool and had lots of toys in her office for me to play with. She also knows the importance of a good hip carrier, so thanks for that! She has been closely tracking my development and can't wait to see me again. (Who can blame her?)

Next, I visited two more of Mommy's old work friends. Now don't misunderstand me... these ladies are not old (though I guess they are compared to me). First, we saw Aysha. She doesn't work at the bank anymore, but she certainly is as eye-catching as Mommy's other work friends. We were having a private conversation in this photo. Hence, I will not share the details with you...

Then there's me with Michelle. Now I grant you that I don't look so good here. A big part of that is that Michelle is so pretty, I actually look less cute in comparison. But make no mistake, I am very cute. And I look forward to meeting any daughters she may have in the future.

After these visits, it was time to see other friends. First is me with Tio Kris (Uncle 'Tis), Daddy's old college roommate. From what I hear, Daddy took great care of Tio Kris during their college years, teaching him how to cook and keeping the place tidy. However, I'm sure Tio K has a different perspective (though his memory is probably spotty).

Then there's me with Tia Nicole. As is obvious in this photo, she absolutely loved me. And who can blame her? Especially with my super-cool hawaiian shirt?

Then there was the quality time with Tio Jamie. It took a while for us to communicate because of his super-thick Boston accent. Wow! I thought I was hard to understand... Anyway, congrats to the recent Law School graduate. He's now clerking for a judge in Boston, which is wonderful (as are their cream pies, I hear), but I worry that his accent will get worse over the course of the next year.

There's me with Tios Tim and Kiren. They're like my second parents and were kind enough to host a BBQ in my honor during our visit. They will really cement their super-status once they get my college fund started (hint, hint). (You'll also notice that I use the word "super" a lot. What can I say... I am a baby and have a limited vocabulary.)

Finally, here's me spending some quality alone time with Kiren at the BBQ. She's dreamy! And she knows I am waaay cuter than Tim. He better watch his back.

Lastly, I also took some time to hang out with my extended family. We stayed with Tios Juan and Kitty (pictured here). What the first photo doesn't show is my look of amazement. Even in black and white, this photo clearly shows that Tio Juan has like 5 black hairs left. There's no pepper with that salt! Suffice it to say that Daddy looks much younger. And much more handsome. But Tio Juan did have a lot of energy for an old guy. Then there's me and Tia Kitty. While I drool regularly, my excuse here is that we're in the kitchen.

Then there's the Gonzalez men. That's my Daddy's Tio Guillermo (his godfather, no less) with me, Daddy, Tio Juan, and my older cousin Alejandro. Alejandro is already 4 years old, but you can see he's already taller than Tio Guillermo (and Daddy).

Finally, I conclude with a splash of color. Here's the next Gonzalez Generation. That's me with my cousins Alicia and Alejandro. We were just hanging on the floor talking baby politics, when we were interrupted by the family papparazzi.

Anyway, part 3 (of 3) of the USA update will be coming soon, I promise. For now, keep dreaming of the next time you see me in person...

XOXO,
Baby Sebastian

I'm OK. You're OK. But you didn't suffer through an earthquake last night

2007-08-16T05:58:00.000-07:00

Hola friends,

As you might have heard, we were hit with quite the earthquake last night. Fortunately, we survived it ok. Though Mommy and Daddy were a bit scared. Anyway, as you can tell, the internet is still working. (Woo-hoo) And, as a special treat, below is a video re-enactment of last night's events. I warn you not to watch this video if you are easily scared or upset. This video contains realistic seismic events and a super cute baby.

Without further ado, I present myself (Baby Sebastian) in... "The Night the Earth Shook Mightily"

Some folks have privately mentioned to me, Baby Sebastian, that my earthquake video reenactment might have seemed insensitive. While my baby humor may differ from yours, some medical professionals have privately mentioned to me that this video might have been cathartic for Mommy and Daddy, and a good way to let everyone know the three of us were ok.

For those of you wanting to know how you can help the unfortunate people left injured or homeless by this event, we strongly recommend donating money to the Red Cross, who have been extremely active in Peru since this event.

Time for another update

2007-08-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

Hello again, and my apologies for taking two weeks to update you on my adventures...

My tiny fingers always hate me after typing these messages, so I know you understand. (Though pictured above is my faithful assistant, who does help a little.) Anyway, I am going to spend this post updating you on part 1 (of 3) of my semi-recent trip to the US of A. After all, I am a proud citizen, regardless of what the Peruvian authorities will have you think. (In fact, I was thrilled last night when I saw the U.S. defeat "The World" in women's surfing in the X-Games. What, you missed it?!) Anyway, my U.S. tour was comprised of visits to Maine (to visit Tios John "El Burrito" Burrows and his fiancee, Miss Christy Cole), Washington, DC, and Boca Raton, FL.

However, first I must congratulate Christy and John, since they got married yesterday! Particular congrats go to Tio Burrito, since he married way, way up. Similarly, my condolences to Tia Christy. If she'd just waited a couple of years, I'd be on the market.

Anyway, as a special gift, please view these ultra cute pictures of me repeatedly. The first one is straight outta a catalog (not Compton). Which reminds me, I really should start supporting my 5-a-day diaper habit by pursuing a modeling career.

The second one is a shot of me and Daddy at his office, where he "works". Abuelito says he just sits in his chair and plays video games all day. I don't know who to believe, though Abuelito does come off a little crazy.

Anyway, on to the photo update...

First is me with Tio John. That's him right after I told him that I was making the moves on his future wife. Imagine the look on his face when she gave me her phone number...

Next is hidden video of me actually hitting on Christy. As you can tell, I am pretty smooth. And cute.

There's Daddy and Tio John hanging out in Portland, Maine. I took them there for the day since they had been so well behaved. Well, Daddy was anyway.

Then there's Mommy and Christy, surely talking about how lucky they both are to have such wonderful men in their lives. (Mommy actually has two!)

Finally, here is the happy couple!!! Of course, all bets are off once I grow up a little. As I mentioned before... In fact, if you don't remember, you may need to work on your reading comprehension and retention. But that's for another post. Heck, you've probably already forgotten the last sentence anyway...

Why is this picture here, you ask? Well, it was taken in Maine during my visit, it displays my new love for drinking from glasses, and (most importantly) it serves to remind you that this blog is all about me. So feel free to stare at it for hours on end and comment on how cute I am.

Finally, it's just me. Hanging out on a bed in Maine. Looking mellow and curious and thinking about how happy I am that it's not winter in Maine.

Well... thanks for checking in. Remember, parts 2 and 3 of my USA tour will be updated soon. Also, American Airlines is currently having a sale to South America, so come see how cute I am in person. Lots of love to all my fans!

XOXO,

Sebastian (aka Mr Squeakers, Squeaky, Sea Bass, Seagull, Corvina, Tacu Tacu...)

Career Aspirations

2007-07-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

Hello again...

Told you I would be back soon. Though it is a brief message. I now realize that, in the very near future, I would like to be either an actor or an abusive landlord. Which sounds better to you? (And special thanks to my - super old - Tio Juan for sending me this video... I really didn't think he was very hip.) Peace out for now. Will write more soon!

XOXO,
Sebastian

The Landlord

Just in case the embedded video has some glitches (which it appears to have), you can also click on the following link:
http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/74

Did you miss me?

2007-06-30T09:30:00.000-07:00

Amigos,

It has been far too long since I wrote, and for that I apologize. But I know you forgive me after viewing this ultra-cute picture of me trying to crawl. (By the way, I still haven't figured it out.) However, you will be interested to know that I wasn't just wasting all this time drooling and sleeping (though I do sleep regularly... who doesn't take 3 naps a day, right?). I was busy seeing the world (3 weeks in USA) and sprouting teeth (and I am not afraid to use them). But now it is time to catch you up on recent events, like Grandpa Ed's visit in April and the shorter, but no less sweet, visit of Tios Mike and Merideth.

Later still, I will fill you in on my trip to the Motherland, my Tio Eddie's wedding, my 6 month birthday (thanks for all the well wishes), and my foray into the world of rice cereal. And Tio Luis and Tia Renata were just here this weekend. But on to April...

Grandpa Ed came for a nice long visit to hang out and meet me (as well as peruse the local chicas). At first, I figured he rode a motorcycle down here because he looked so rugged. Turns out I was half right... he is a motorcycle man after all, but he actually flew a plane down here. I should say, flew on a plane. Had he been flying the plane himself, it never woulda made it. (Unlike my Tio Eddie, who actually is a pilot... or so he says. I'll believe him for now.) Anyway, this first shot is of me and Grandpa at a nice restaurant. I was so hungry I was actually considering eating my fist. And there we are at a weekend cookout. I got all spiffed out in my hoodie, while Grandpa did his best to challenge speed eater's Kobayashi's hot dog eating record. (He ate one... barely.)

Overall, Grandpa Ed enjoyed the Peruvian cuisine, though I think he's still chewing on some gum to get rid of the taste of that hot dog. (We're still trying to ascertain if it actually was made with real dog.) However, he did get lots of good fish and "lomo saltado", a Peruvian classic. I would assume it's more flavorful than rice cereal or stewed carrots. I hope it is, anyway. Anyway, here we are recreating a scene from Crocodile Dundee, where he's the Aussie protagonist and I am the adorable baby sidekick. Maybe they haven't made this movie yet, but I guarantee it would be better than "Cop and a Half".

Tios Mike and Merideth also visited in April, and overlapped with Grandpa. My apologies again for not writing this sooner... it is already July (egads!). So, we all hung out and got completely drunk (well, perhaps I exaggerate), reminisced about Daddy's Uno prowess, and watched Daddy crush Tio Mike in Halo (no scope!). But Mike was a good sport and only cried a little.

Finally, I will leave you with super cute photos of me with Mommy and Daddy. Arrivaderci, and I will write again soon...

Catching up on past events

2007-05-16T17:29:00.000-07:00

OK amigos,

Back to the task of updating you on my exciting life... Last you knew, my abuelitos visited, which was a rocking good time. In fact, it was so much fun that I decided to book a flight to Colombia during Semana Santa (that's Holy Week to my gringo friends). Also, note that it is spelled with an "o" instead of a "u" like in Columbia University. Speaking of, let's give a round of applause to my 1st cousin, once removed (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin), Lulu who just graduated this week with an M.A. from Columbia!

That's me at abuelito's house and I swear it looks like you are seeing double. But, when you've got the dough and the space on your wall, no better way to satisfy your vanity than to commission a portrait. Me, I satisfy it with this blog and all you good people who read it...

Anyway, Colombia was lots o' fun. We flew to Medellin and I got to flash my diplomatic passport. I'd like to claim that I got additional respect because of it, but that would be untrue. However, I did get some serious preferential treatment for being a baby, and even got upgraded to first class. Anyway, after a few days in Medellin we all (my abuelita's extended family) went to my great aunt's finca (kinda like a summer farm house) and kicked it the wealthy Colombian way. There I am with my other FCORs, Sean and Patrick. (Please note that Sean is proudly wearing a Pat White jersey. For those who don't know, he's the star QB at West Virginia.)

Basically, we ate aplenty, played pool, drank cervezas, and swam in the pool. I say we, but I mostly stuck to my routine of just drinking milk and hanging out and being cute. But seeing everyone else happy made me pretty happy. Oh yeah... and I met my second cousin Daniel too - see photo on your left. (You can check the wikipedia post to figure out what that means too...) He's actually my "little" cousin, since I was born 3 days earlier.

Anyway, on to a few photos...

There's me with my FCOR Polly, her son (my 2nd cousin) Daniel, my awesome daddy, and my Great Grandmother. Still trying to teach her how to rap like the granny in "The Wedding Singer", but so far no luck. She doesn't even know old schoolers like the Sugar Hill Gang or Grandmaster Flash. Maybe it's a lost cause...

There's me and mommy swimming. She was scared at first, but I kept her head above water until she calmed down a bit.

Finally, here's me and daddy. Look at the composition of this picture. The colors. Just beautiful...

Happy Momma's Day!

2007-05-13T15:26:00.000-07:00

OK, I apologize for not writing any updates... I will catch you up on my latest months soon. But, in my defense, being a baby is a full-time job. Not like you 9 to 5ers out there. I do this 24-7. But I digress...

Just wanted to send a shout out to all the mommies out there - particularly mine - and even one to the foxy ladies who aren't yet mommies. Hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day. I made sure that my mommy's was wonderful! After all, every day with me is wonderful.

But anyway, on to my actual message...

News Flash!!!

2007-04-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

OK all,

I am temporarily pausing my update of the past 4 months to pass along a very important piece of information. Today I actually played with my rattle and passed it back and forth between my hands. Suffice it to say that mommy and daddy were quite proud, though they were unable to get it on video. What can I say... I wow them so quickly that they're never prepared. Will have to give them a heads up when I decide I want to start walking.

Anyway, since you all are likely music buffs, I thought I would add this little video clip of me playing with the rattle (shortly after switching it from one hand to the other).

Enjoy, and big sloppy kisses from Lima. XOXO,
Sebastian

More updates on the semi-recent past

2007-04-29T17:16:00.000-07:00

Hi amigos,

Sorry for not writing this past week, but Daddy was in Ecuador. Now, don't you all start claiming that he wrote the previous entries... he is not that witty. It's just that I missed him and, well, I lost my muse. He's back now, and so am I!

Last I wrote, I cheered for West Virginia (can't do that enough... darkhorses for winning the next college football championship, in case you were wondering), told you about my December arrival, and introduced you to Lima.

Now onto my second month... (By the way, I turned four months old on Friday... thanks for all the well wishes.) The big news was that my abuelitos came to visit me from Colombia. And they loved every minute of it. (Other folks have also visited since... there will be future blog entries detailing their lovely visits.) Probably makes you wonder whether you should come visit too... Well, you should. Besides seeing me -- and I am as wonderful as advertised -- you can pig out at all the fine dining establishments like my parents. They just looove Peruvian cuisine. Personally, I try to maintain my physique with a very strict liquid diet.

Then you can travel around to the jungle, the beach, the mountains, and some ruins called Machu Picchu. I'm not sure about that last place though - it sounds made up to me. I mean, "Machu Picchu"! C'mon, I am four months old (another chance to remind you that my "birthday" was this past Friday) and I could make up a better name than that. Would you believe there were some ruins called "Ga ga goo goo" as well? Well, would you?!

Anyway, month two was pretty significant. I started picking my head up more so people could see how handsome I was. I also started eating and sleeping better, which made my parents happy. And my overall routines started to become established. But this bores you all... because I know you just want to see more of me. So on to the photos...

First, there's me and Daddy hanging out at Starbucks. Pretty happening place, and I asked Mommy to take it easy on the caffeine.

Then there's me out on the balcony with abuelita. She and abuelito took me out there a couple of times a day to breathe in the fresh air and spend quality time together.

That's me and abuelito sitting out on the balcony shooting the breeze. My chair is way cooler than his.

This next one is just me. And Olan Mills couldn't have done any better. Then again, I'm so good looking that I can make anyone with a digital camera look like Annie Leibovitz.

This is me helping abuelita read a book. (Her eyesight isn't so good... but she does get AARP benefits!)

Finally, there's me just plain lookin fashionable. All I need is Paddington Bear and I am ready to go off to the dark jungles of Peru (pretty close already!). This here is just a nearby park, though.

Housekeeping

2007-04-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

Ignore this post. Just need to add it to add a photo to my profile... But thanks for visiting the site.

Welcome to my blog

2007-04-21T15:36:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, and greetings from Lima...

You may be asking what took me so long to start a blog, but keep in mind that I am not yet 4 months old. All the rest of you were doing at 4 months was soiling yourselves. Not to be mean or anything...

Anyway, I should start with a few photos from my earliest times. None pre-December 27 (do NOT forget my birthday... it is very significant to me and it should be to you too). If you are wondering about that earliest time, think of a more claustrophobic Waterworld in a tropical climate during a 9-month solar eclipse. And a more interesting plot and better acting...

OK... I will include 2 photos of my parents on the way and at the hospital. That's mommy on the left.

Daddy may have a hard time explaining this picture, but I believe him for now.

Anyway, I was born in Peru and had a full head of hair. I was also surprised to see how handsome my parents were. You can see too (right)

Next is Daddy... he's holding me (I'm the little football) the day after I was born. If you look close, you can see one of Daddy's soccer battle scars on his right cheek. Peruvians like to play a bit rough (or dirty).

I was so comfortable at the hospital, in fact, that I really did not want to leave. You can see how unhappy I was when they told me we had to check out and go home. Also note how small my head is - tons of space inside the head rest - believe you me... I've got a big melon now.

Life is good and Mommy and Daddy always stick a camera in my face. I haven't gotten out too much (until recently), but I promise to give any visitors a grand tour of Lima.

By the way, don't let Peruvian immigration officials fool you... I really am an American regardless of their bureaucratic mumbo-jumbo. For those who don't know the story, Peruvian officials did not want to let me leave and go to visit my family in Colombia because I only had a U.S. passport. They demanded that I have a Peruvian passport because they claimed me as a citizen. I know I am handsome and all, but geez... Get your own citizens!

Anyway, I've grown up a bit since these early shots, so I want to share a few more shots of me as I mature. Believe it or not, I am already more mature than my Tio Luis!

That's me yawning... it is tiring to be a baby.

There I have Daddy's nose. I still haven't given it back.

That's me when the cops busted me for being too cute. I was so scared I pooped myself.

And here is me and Mommy on a fun day out. Mommy is particularly pleased. (She wasn't getting out much.)

Also, in case you didn't know. I like to sleep (see above). In a myriad of bizarre positions. While I don't curl up like a tree frog anymore, it is nice to reminisce...

One more thing... just want to give a shout out to that fine West Virginia University basketball team. 2007 NIT Champions! I burned my diapers in celebration.

Finally, allow me to add one little video to greet you. More videos will become available in the future. This is just a quick hi! Check back for more updates.