19 Months

We're finally at the end of a hot, humid summer here in New England.  It didn't seem to be as bad as last year, but I have to say, I'll take heat over humidity any day.

Saffron's FINALLY beginning to say words (other than repeating a few choice curse words—don't worry mom, none of them start with "C")!  She calls us both "dah-ee".  Says "yum-yum" when she's hungry or play-eating; "hi", "bye", "baby" and finally "nigh-nigh" when being whisked off to bedtime.

In the last few days someone has learned to climb into and out of her highchair on her own.  Saffy's very good at organizing:  putting like items, such as similar stuffed animals, baby dolls, books, and other toys together in groups all without being taught.  Must be instinct.  Too bad she can't put toys away yet.

Children's Television:
She also has an obsession with "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood" a public television cartoon based on "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".  This has spiraled out of control, as it's the only thing that captures her attention when daddy does chores, needs a break, or needs his little girl to calm down.  We don't have cable, but it's on Netflix, so when one episode ends, another begins immediately.  It has literally taken over all of our lives.  Pandora's box has been opened.

In our evenings, John and I critique the show (perhaps I go to further extremes) as if we were the intended demographic.  When you see an episode more than a few times, you begin to ponder the show's deeper problems like why some cartoon animals are regarded as equals to humans, but other animals are just animals or pets.  What is this strange animal hierarchy?  Of course, I am grateful she doesn't like "Dora the Explorer", the big-headed girl who lives in a bad neighborhood full of thieves, talking backpacks, and eerie glassy-eyed stares at the audience that linger just long enough to make you uncomfortable and look behind you.

I've tried to get her to like other shows like "Peppa Pig", "Noddy in Toyland", and "The Wot-Wots".  But the only thing gained from those shows is bastardized cartoonish, faux-British accent by yours truly whilst speaking to our daughter.

Well, that's all for now.
Later internets!