Where in the World Is Diego?

Since February, Diego and Lauren have been traveling fools! May is a month to slow down and enjoy Durham's beautiful spring weather (before the oppressive heat descends upon us and forces us indoors). We have traveled to Charlotte, NC; Atlanta, GA; Colleyville, TX; San Diego, CA; and the North Carolina beach. Yesterday was my first full day of no work - just playing with Diego, picking up around the house (though you wouldn't know it by the looks of it) and running a few errands. It was blissful.

Lately, Diego's favorite activity is kicking around the "ball" (his newest word). He has a soccer ball, and without a doubt has some genetic disposition towards kicking a soccer ball in a straight line (which I still cannot do). So, we take him down to the soccer field in our community, and he kicks the ball into the goal, throws his arms in the air and gleefully yells, "GOAL!" This is especially cute when he's wearing his GOAL soccer outfit. He is quick to point out that there is a ball on his shirt.

He's also grown very fond of strawberries, and has learned the sign for "please" (thanks to Leslie's housemate). And while Diego is 99% cute, the most annoying thing he does right now is say "mommy" anytime he wants something. "Mommy" does not mean the same thing as "mom" or "mama." It means, "Give me what I'm pointing to right now!" Annoying.

Diego will be 17 months old next week, and from now on when people ask me how old he is I'm going to say 1 1/2 and then when he nears 2, I'll say 2. I'm not counting in months any longer.

Incidentally, today is our anniversary: I met baby Diego in Antigua, Guatemala one year ago this evening. He was bundled up in a blanket, sleeping in the arms of our friend's daughter, Gabriela. Just recalling that precious, unforgettable moment brings tears to my eyes. I couldn't be more thankful for the immense joy this little boy has brought to my life.