SHARING

It's amusing how this is his first reaction to everything in the world. This week was Joel and Ben's birthdays and this morning the first thing out of his mouth was "mommy, is it my birthday?" We're working on that.

HAZARDS

Some days with a toddler feel like a train wreck. I do my work to survive those days and celebrate the sane ones.

UNDRESSING

We spend a lot of time cajoling Gabriel to GET DRESSED. It is a true test of patience to watch and wait for a distracted hyper active toddler to get dressed.

TRAIN

I could have illustrated SO many more examples of things he turns into a train; hedges, pens, tubes, etc., etc. When he looked down the toilet and saw his poop as a train I knew I had to do this piece. What's up with them lining everything up!?

TOILET TRAINING

Luckily Gabe is over this phase but for a while there this is all the training potty was good for.

SKINNY

I guess this is my way of surviving living in south Orange County surrounded by thin tall blonds. I thought they were lucky but it turns out they don't eat much and take the gym very seriously. This is my way of facing the facts and dealing with it.

PAJAMA CARNAGE

My toddler has always been very picky about what jammies he wears. I'm very happy that he's finally at an age he can pretty much pick his own clothes and we avoid the horror of me picking the WRONG pajama and the ensuing drama!

NEUROSES

I could have illustrated so many more little toddler quirks. They truly are creatures of habit and will go through great lengths to have things just so. My favorite is the avoiding all cracks at whatever cost. He doesn't always do this but when Gabriel remembers this quirk he'll contort his body in some amazing ways just to avoid stepping on a crack or a seam in the cement.

MOTHERHOOD

Some days, especially with my 'spirited' toddler, feel like all damage control. I had no idea how much of motherhood would fit the job description of cop.

EARTH DAY

A nod to Earth Day.