Jack ate cactus

Yes, Jack ate cactus today with his nanny Maria at a Mexican joint in West Town. He also had dim sum in Chinatown last week. His favorite drink is "farkling" water (a combination of sparkling and fizzy), he likes brie on crackers and loves Puerto Rican food. And he's two. I'm not sure where we go, culinary-speaking, from here.

I'm done, thankfully

Since Labor Day, I have had three major work events (like major...weekend-long activities....700-guest luncheons...), guests (whom I love) every weekend in October, one trip to Cleveland and one two-year-old's birthday party. And I have an extremely lovable cat who likes to wake me up at 4 a.m. on a regular basis. I am tired, gentle reader. I fell so asleep during an afternoon nap yesterday that I didn't even notice when Jack started covering me in toys. I woke up cradling his ukelele.

But I am done. Yes, I still have work, a toddler and the holidays soon upon us (get ready for some turkey placecards, people) but life is calming down. I'm looking forward to the upcoming weekend. All of my favorite activities: organizing closets, getting a facial and a date with Jeremy. Give me a call if you want to catch up!

Happy birthday, baby boy

To my sweet boy - you are two today. It is a beautiful day in Chicago today - near-record temperatures of 70 degrees and sunny. It is one of those delicious fall days, just like two years ago when you were born. I remember the weather that day - watching the sun rise over Lake Michigan from our labor room to watching it set in the late afternoon and knowing my life was about to change forever. You were born at 5:29 p.m. and for one moment the world stood still for us as you were placed in my arms with Daddy by my side.

We love you for so many reasons, Jack. We love you for your passion, your love of attention, and your tendency to be bossy. You are a lovable guy who will now say "love you" unprompted, which just warms our hearts to no end. Happy birthday, sweets!