Elmo's Green Thumb

Jason, Mimi and I took Ro to see Elmo's Green Thumb, the Sesame Street show.  She loved it! 

President Barack Obama

I had to write a topical post since I hope that one day Rory will see this and look back on her own history, as part of the country's history. Yesterday was the inauguration of Barack Obama, the first African-American President of the United States. Jason and I watched the inauguration together here at Wash U, in the student union, with a couple hundred students. Rory watched at school. When I picked her up she was telling me all about it. Here's some of the conversation:

Rory: Mommy, where is Barack Obama?

Mommy: He's in Washington, D.C. honey.

Rory: No he isn't, Mommy. He's in AMERICA!

Mommy: You are so right, Rory.

Rory: Can Barack Obama come to my house?

Mommy: Well, Ro, he's pretty busy. I don't think he'll be coming to our house. He works a lot.

Rory: Does he go to other people's houses?

Mommy: Not really, Ro. He works a lot, then goes home to see his family. I don't think he gets out a lot just to visit houses.

Rory: If he will go to people's houses, he can knock on the door, and if they open it, he can come in and he can bring them a PRESENT!

Mommy: Really? Wow. What kind of presents do you think Barack Obama would bring people, Ro?

Rory: He can bring me a giant black Slinky! I saw one at Uncle Jeff's house!

So, I do believe that my child has cast some Santa-esque qualities onto President Obama. I think this is a great representation of what her mind can comprehend about all this right now. It's amazing to think that she will grow up in a world where she doesn't know any different. There have always been African-American Presidents in her world. Amazing.

Jason's Creative Work

Jason is getting creative.  Here's a video from April 1, 2006, when Rory was about 7 weeks old.  I don't remember this moment at all, but love this clip.  Beautiful job, Jas.  I'm amazed at how communicative she looks, like she's just soaking up every word and facial expression.

Fancy Girl

Everything is about being fancy these days. Rory loves the Fancy Nancy books. She has a new fancy robe (like Fancy Nancy), and fancy shoes. She loves fancy things in her hair. Check out the fancy girl.

Budding Artist

Rory got an easel for Hanukkah this year and is having a good time with it. Here is the budding artist this morning.  And even Sydney likes Ro's art!

Holiday Party for Work

The Dean had a holiday brunch and we just got the pictures back from the photographer who was there. Rory could not have been more excited about these cookies. (OK, I must admit, I couldn't either. They were PHENOMENAL!) But despite her enthusiasm, Rory still shared her cookie with Daddy.  All grandparents: don't worry, copies of these pics are being sent to you soon!