Blue

Our new favorite color is blue because Dave is/has now a "blue badge", meaning a permanent position with Intel! Dave started on Monday and continued working on the same team, on the same project and in the same role as before. So the job itself hasn't changed but the benefits, job security etc. have.
Melina had her 12-month checkup last week. She continues to be totally average in terms of height and weight but way above average in terms of head size. And it turns out her feet are unusually small for her age. I had to buy her shoes the other day and they were size 3-6 months. Poor Melina got pricked 5 times during that doctor's visit and was not happy, understandably so. Still no teeth in sight, which is unusual. We hope the first tooth starts to poke through soon so we don't have to go see a pediatric dentist.
Melina experiences a lot of separation and stranger anxiety right now. Dropping her off at daycare in the morning is not easy, neither for her nor me. Last weekend, Melina took a few steps by herself so walking is in the near future.
I just finished the 2nd week of classes and things are pretty hectic. I am doing an interesting research study this term that's supported by a small internal grant. For the first time ever, I will be able to hire some assistants for my research!

Here are some pix from Melina's 1st birthday.

From Melina Year 2

From Melina Year 2

From Melina Year 2