Feliz Cumplemes!

Today Paloma is one month old! Fernando has a month long vacation this summer and goes back to work August 3rd. Without him at home during this challenging time, I wouldn't know what I would have done by myself. We've learned so much already about parenting, and there's so much more to go. We'd be lying if we said we didn't take pictures all the frickin' time. It's been a spectacular journey so far...

Today, we bought a cake the size of Paloma to celebrate.

Who says newborns don't smile?

You are getting sleepy...sleepy...My moment to slip away and get a few things done. We like to take her out for a walk every now and then to acquaint her with the city sounds.

These cries used to make us nervous, especially since Paloma knows how to scream. We respond to her cries, but they're not so scary anymore.

Skin-on-skin contact at its best. Which magazine should we send this to?

Fernando's face, my hair and eyes? We can never decide.

Yeah, we're tight.

Since Paloma likes motion, we tested out her new baby carrier. Not her thing for now.

All babies love baths - so I thought. It's been hit or miss lately.

We like the 'hawk.

Her mug shot for her U.S. passport. We love this tiny thing!

The Big Meet

I'd been waiting for this moment ever since we found out Rafa and Katya were pregnant too. Pau and Paloma finally met face to face. Any resemblance between the Ruiz cousins?

We laid them on the sofa together so they could get acquainted (and take a zillion pictures, like the proud parents all four of us are.) Paloma, Day 29. Pau, Day 20.

They tried to eat each other.

Behind the scenes of the big meet.

Katya gave Pau some merienda.

One more picture of Pau in his stroller before they went home. Thanks for stopping by, Rafa and Katya. Hope to see you soon, little one!

Our Nephew's Baptismal Reception

On Friday, our beautiful nephew, Pau, was baptized into the Catholic Church. Luck would have it that we completely missed the ceremony because of heavy traffic. (So sorry, Pau!) Good thing we were there in time to celebrate at the reception with family. I also regret that we don't have any pictures of the guest of honor. When I wasn't mindful of Paloma, Pau seemed to be taking advantage of naptime. Next time, we promise!

Paloma got dazzled up for the event.

The infamous twins, Maria and Emma, were there looking adorable as always.

Juan Pablo called our daughter "expressive". I like that description.

Juana looked great with our expressive girl.

The event was at a spectacularly Spanish restaurant, Art Iberic.

The happy parents, Rafa and Katya.

Finally! Food I'm allowed to eat post pregnancy! Lomo, salchichon, jamon, the works!

Cheeses galore.

Hanging hams.

Even more.

Congratulations, Pau!

Tour de France in Barcelona

The Tour de France was in town! In fact, the trajectory passed right in front of our house. How lucky was I to get a glimpse of this and feed Paloma at the same time? This is living.

Before the cyclists come in, there's tons of blatant advertising that rolls down the street.

The weather has been warm lately, but of all the days, it was pouring.

Advertisers threw products to the public.

Juan Pablo was lucky enough to catch a cap.

This man with the neck brace was desperate to pick up the free bracelet on the ground.

Fernando's brother and dad were downstairs cheering on the cyclists. Lance is the fourth one in the second row on the very left wearing red. Just kidding.

This isn't related, but who makes up the blogging rules? Palomita, Day 19.

Happy 7/8/9!

It's been a few eventful days since Fernando's family has been in town. Here's our latest and greatest.

Abuelo Rafa with his nieta.

Fernando has been running around town this week putting Paloma in the books. It's official - she's a real person now in Spain! Next stop: U.S. Consulate.
Juan Pablo brought with him this darling onesie from our dear friend Luisa in Sevilla. She cross stitched it herself. It says "Me llamo Paloma". Awwwwwww!!!

Today we went to see her official pediatrician. For the first time, she fell asleep in my arms without having to nurse. Score!

Grandparents - Round Two

Fernando and I are fortunate to have another set of grandparents helping us out with Paloma. Rafa and Juana, Fernando's folks, drove down from Wales on Friday to meet their new grandchildren in Barcelona before making their way back to Sevilla. Lucky for us, they'll be helping us out at home for a week or so. More spectacular meals!
Fernando's brother, Juan Pablo, also arrived in Barcelona to meet his niece and nephew.

Pops and his sleepy girl.

At the end of the day, we were able to take a stroll around the neighborhood. Another successful ride in the stroller!

Pau's arrived!

He's here! Pau Ruiz Salmeron, our new nephew arrived on Monday, June 29th -- nine days after our daughter. I haven't had a chance to meet him yet since I've been at home with Paloma, but hopefully we can visit next week. We're so happy for proud parents, Rafa and Katya.

I think it's love.

Proud papi.

A hand-eater just like Paloma.

Pau's adorable twin cousins, Maria and Emma. Gotta support that head!

I hear the nautical theme is hot this summer. Baby's got style!

Watch out, Pau! I can't wait to get my hands on those chubby cheeks.