Happy Seventeen Months

We are definitely in the toddler hood. Our little one is developing a strong will, a larger vocabulary, and some faster feet. The highlight of the month was when she learned how to hug and say "Awwww....". It's so lovely.

I've been taking her to Kindermusik class once a week, which is a music and movement class of eight other toddlers. She also has books and CDs that correspond to the class, which she loves reading because the content repeats itself. I just put on the music at home and she does some of her signature dance moves. And I thought I'd never be that parent that just commands their kids, "Dance! Dance!"

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Chasing a peacock at the zoo.

I found her eating yogurt on her bed once when I couldn't find her. But no food in bed!
She rocks this snail like a pro now.
My budding artist. One of my dreams while pregnant: arts and crafts days. Can't wait!
Swinger.
Taking a snooze on Passeig de Gracia.Waiting for her buddy Jack at a park in the beautiful Montjuic. No dog poop here. Play away!
Sunny days were awesome for almost the whole month of November.

Pooped from seeing the Pope.

Organizing things is big fun.
This one cracks me up. The classic...

...peek-a-boo! Never fails.

Taking play seriously with cousin Pau.
What have I done. She loves the Youtube videos of Sesame Street songs. My personal favorite is that of Andrea Bocelli putting Elmo to sleep. So endearing!
Happy holidays, everyone!

The Pope is Dope

As a Catholic, I was excited to know that Pope Benedict XVI was going to come to Barcelona to consecrate the Sagrada Familia, the masterpiece cathedral by Antoni Gaudí. Wanting to avoid the thick crowds around the church, we decided to join along the streets, where the Pope would be passing by to greet the masses with a friendly wave and arms-raising.

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There were lots of followers waiting for His Holiness after Mass. Large screens were put up for all to see the service.

As imagined, security was tight, tight, tight. The Pope was scheduled to leave the Sagrada Familia to the archdiocese, which was to be a 15-minute ride.People were eager to make their statements. This sign reads "Miracle urgent: 1 politic honest". I don't know if it's Catalan or very bad English.Of course, there were several protestors as well. The top balcony says, "Use the condom." There was also a flashmob of gays and lesbians who were to kiss for two minutes outside the church as the Pope arrived. Wonder if he even saw them. Overall, it was peaceful.

Paloma mounted the Palomamobile while we waited for the Popemobile. "Popopopopopo....!!!"

The royal family, the president, and lots of politicians were there. The only one to greet the crowds was the Queen of Spain, who sat in the back seat of a speedy sedan and waved. See how accurately I was able to take the picture?

Here comes His Holiness...

Eeks! See that hand waving in the lower left corner? I have a picture of the Pope!
Ah, didn't know the Popemobile went faster than 10 mph.
Until next time...!
Two seconds after this, the crowds dispersed like cockroaches. May we meet again, dear Holy Father!