I looked at the calendar this morning and could hardly believe when I saw Nov. 10 staring back at me. That date was such a significant one in 2006: it was my last day of work before maternity leave – and a date that I spent months daydreaming about. I remember leaving work a year ago today, thinking “oh, wow, this is it.” I knew that when I returned to work my life would be completely different – but I couldn’t understand exactly how. “I’ll… be someone’s mom – and I’ll likely have thoughts and feelings that I can’t even fathom right now,” I wrote on this blog. “It’s all pretty hard to imagine.”

One year later, I’m back at work – with a smaller stomach and a fuller heart. I am indeed someone’s mom, and I couldn’t be happier. And I think seeing Nov. 10 on the calendar will always remind me of that.

-M

Zoe loves to play; among her favorite things to do: throw around balls, play peek-a-boo, and climb up on someone to hang out or fly through the air. (Note that her dad is involved in all these activities.) Check out three recent pics of some playful moments.

-M

PS- That third picture could be one of my all-time faves. Even if she does look a bit boyish.

Zoe had a great weekend with PopPop, but had to say goodbye Sunday night. PopPop did get to see some milestones as Zoe now stands on her own and can walk around while only holding on to one hand. I am sure Zoe will be walking on her own soon, but looks like PopPop enjoyed lending her a hand.

Jon Q

One of Zoe’s favorite new things is to sing an excerpt of “Old McDonald” – with or without the music. Ever since I picked her up from daycare on Thurs. afternoon, she has been singing (almost non-stop) “Ee-i-ee-i-o.” (Well, she doesn’t always get the “o,” but she certainly has the first part down.) Elena told me that a new little girl at daycare constantly sings the song – and I guess Zoe liked the way it sounds! (After all, this is the age in which kids imitate everything.)

As for other new tricks, Zoe very much likes to high-five. (She still doesn’t clap or patty-cake much, but she loves to stretch out her hand for this particular trick.) Check out the pic below.

-M

Zoe thought it would be fun to take her PopPop to the playground yesterday – and the two of them, along with Q, Dan, Jenny and me – wound up going to three different ones! Zoe did lots of sliding, swinging and climbing, and she played in sand for the first time. By the time the day was over, Zoe was tired, dirty – and extremely happy.

-M

Zoe got a surprise yesterday when PopPop showed up for the weekend! She has been on many adventures with PopPop so far, and we’ll post plenty of pictures soon. But for now, we’ll just show a snapshot of their time together…

Jon Q

Zoe learned a new trick on Halloween that she wanted to share with you all. Here she is doing her best monster impression!

Jon Q

I think it’s safe to say that Zoe’s first Halloween was a success. She got to show off her bunny costume (sans ears, most of the time), hang out with Uncle Dan, trick-or-treat in the neighborhood (which was packed with kids), and play with her aviator friend Zander. She’s already planning for next year’s festivities.

-M

“A party just isn’t a party without beer.”

Family shot!

“Here, have a carrot!”

“I like your costume!”

“Trick-or-treat!”

“We’re looking for more candy!”

“I’m ready for bed.”