In the Light of Yuletide

These last days of the year have been jammed packed with adventures and celebrations. To start, all three of us took a very magical bus to Mexico City last week. I enjoyed moving along on this big, long bus with all the new faces and shiny lights. We even watched a couple of movies, that is, until I fell asleep about half way through. I think mama-san and papa-san enjoyed my napping time the most. I love moving fast and having lots of new sights to focus on. Mama-san says I am quite the little traveler.

Once in Mexico City, I met a very nice passport official who complemented me on my big eyes and cheerful look. Sitting and waiting at the American Embassy was not so much fun, but at least I have all my paperwork done and should have the new passport in my chubby little hand within a few weeks. After seven months of corresponding with the Canadian, American and Mexican governments, I think my mama-san is happy the paperwork saga is almost over. I wonder if this passport will be a good chew toy as it seems everything I can get to my mouth these days is game.

We had a special dinner last Sunday to celebrate Yuletide. You can see the photo above with our holiday poinsettia, candles and, best of all, chocolates! Unfortunately, I am not allowed chocolate yet and have to resign myself to pureed broccoli. I also was not allowed to have any of the mulled wine, which smelled so good with orange peel, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon sticks. The only thing missing was a nice snowy day. Even though all of us enjoy the spring-like winter in San Miguel, it just seems a bit off not to have a real winter around the holidays. 

I helped decorate our Yuletide Gratitude Tree with my own doodle card. Mama-san and papa-san did their own gratitude tags for things like joy, health, prosperity, and laughter. We also made Yuletide wishes for the upcoming year, but, since these are secret, I cannot tell you about the details. Yet, I think my mama-san may have wished for me to start taking regular naps again. With my new teeth coming in and all the exciting things to explore, I cannot seem to settle down enough for a quick snooze because I am afraid to miss any of the action. 

Both the "san's" and myself  hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season.

Big raspberries to you,

 

Liam

P.S. I have a few new pictures on the last page in my photo album down below. Since this is my "virtual baby book," it would be super fantastic to hear from you in the comments section. 

Mama-san Memo: The Dangers of Plastic Toys & Products

Over the last few years, the danger of plastic infant and childhood toys, bottles, and dishware has come to light in the media.  The problem lies within the chemicals bisphenol A as well as phthalates. Bisphenol A is a toxic chemical additive used to either soften or harden plastic and phthalates can be found in shampoo and soaps. Since infants and children metabolize chemicals much differently than adults, the effects can be devastating, as seen below.

"... hundreds of studies on the chemicals (in plastics) have linked them to malfunctions in children's developing organs and reproductive systems, as well as breast cancer, prostate cancer, malformed sexual organs, low sperm counts and disruption of the endocrine system. A Japanese study found that babies who put products containing bisphenol A into their mouths can leach significant levels of the chemical from the plastic. A separate Tufts University study found that pregnant rodents exposed to a mere fraction of the level of bisphenol A considered "safe" by the EPA for a baby to consume produced changes in the rats' mammary tissues that are associated with breast cancer."

To read the full article, view:

http://www.naturalnews.com/021173.html

Aware parents keep children safe by avoiding any plastic or synthetic toy, bottle, or dishware product and instead focus on natural materials such as organic fabrics, wood for toys/teethers/baby spoons, glass for baby bottles, heavy ceramics or stainless steel for dishware, sippy cups and water bottles. By using the most natural materials available, parents also help to instill within the child a connection with nature through texture, color, and weight.

Resources:

http://www.tinybirdorganics.com (nat. toys/wooden dishware/org. fabrics)

http://www.kidadvance.com (natural toys)

http://www.vitacost.com (discount Weleda baby shampoo/soaps)

http://www.tingamababy.com (glass bottles w/ protective silicone sleeve)

http://www.novanatural.com (natural toys)

Names and Knights

I've finally decided to use my shortened Irish Gaelic name-form "Liam" instead of the longer English form "William" from this day onward. In any case, "Liam" sounds much more interesting, unique, and even revolutionary.

I also just learned that the name "William" has Germanic roots in "Wilhelm" which contains the two compound words "will" and "helm". And these words hold the meaning "willful and determined," as well as "protector and defender."

So I got to thinking, "Liam, what do you want to be the willful and determined protector and defender of?" And the most natural response was, "Peace, Truth and Justice, of course!" So there you have it. I am now officially, "Liam the Willful and Determined Protector of Peace, Truth and Justice." But after all measure of pomp and formality have been duly satisfied, you can just call me "Liam."

I will see about using my telepathic powers of suggestion to send hints and signals to mama-san and papa-san about acquiring a lightsaber soon. I think every Willful and Determined Protector of Peace, Truth and Justice needs one. And hopefully in a few short years I can begin my training as a Jedi Knight.

Boy, I can hardly wait!

Liam

Festive Days

Everything has been a little busy in baby land over the last few months. We moved to a bright, cozy new home in September and both papa-san and mama-san have been busy with projects (mainly, working on improving our abundance).

I have been very busy as well, trying my best to crawl, but it is more like a breast-stroke across the floor, with a few raspberries thrown in to amuse myself. My three new teeth coming in have been a problem. Mainly, they make me very, very cranky and restless, just cannot find any satisfaction in the many chew toys at my disposal. I do, however, like gnawing on the handle of my toothbrush and papa-san's chin (that stubble just has the best texture!)

Mama-san finally started me on solid foods about a month ago. She is such a worry-wart that she felt a delay in solids would help avoid any food allergies. So far, it is just vegetables like broccoli, beets, squash, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes. The fruit will come next month, I cannot wait to develop my sweet tooth.

We started sleep training a few weeks ago as mama-san and papa-san were becoming way too crabby (and me as well) from the lack of sleep. Not quite sure how I feel about it yet, but I am told (over and over) that I am loved and that it is time for sleep. I only cry a little bit (if I am not overtired) and then pass out. We all seem to be in better spirits these days.

The big-heads wanted to make sure I wish everyone a very happy holiday season this year. And I look forward to meeting all you other big-heads soon.

Hugs, kisses and raspberries.

William

P.S. Mama-san wanted to make sure I tell all of you to check out the photo's down below.