I was reading the other day that at 18 months toddlers can usually understand and/or speak about 50 words.  But by 2 years that number increases to about 300 which I think is amazing.  We were told that language development for bi-lingual children was slower but I think Nina understands at least 50 words and can say about half probably more.  At this stage everyday she seems to learn a new word everyday.  It is so exciting.

Last week we had our first real conversation.  It went something like this.  She had just woken up and was a bit cross so I was suggesting things she might like.

Me: “Nina do you want water?”                                                                                     Nina: No                                                                                                                          Me: Do you want to go to the plaza?                                                                             Nina: No                                                                                                                          Me: Do you want to listen to your songs?                                                                          Nina: yes

On the way to find the computer to listen to the songs.  She asked, “Donde esta” (where is it) and I said “alli esta” (there is it is) and pointed to the table.

She began to make her way to the table and passed the fridge where she pointed and said, “uvitas” (grapes which are currently her favourite food).  I said “yes go get your plate” which she did.

This is probably a fairly boring conversation and if I had have had it with Martin I wouldn’t be so excited but to be having your first conversation with you child is very special time.

She is now going to daycare for 3.5 hours per day so I can work as well as have a bit of free time.  The first week or two was pretty heavy going, she cried a lot and I cried maybe even more but she’s settled in well now.  When we get there she says, “chau mama” and heads off with the worker happily enough.  And picking her up is always lovely.  I try to sneak in and watch her play with others for a little while but then when she sees me she says “mama” and comes running over to me.  It makes one feel very loved and appreciated.

She is still happiest outside.  She loves walking in the hills with us or going to the park.  She is amazing at climbing slippery dips.  Nobody believes me when I tell them she’s only 19 months.  She also likes saying “hola” to everyone we pass by.  And of course they all love that too.  She still gets heaps of attention.

We have begun toilet training.  It seems like a good time as it’s still really hot and she likes been naked anyway so I thought I’d take advantage before it got cooler.  Not to mention she was always pointing to the potty and saying wee wee and poo poo so seems to know what she has to do but most of the time we miss.  It’s a messy time.  The two times we have made it were very exciting.  Never thought I’d be cheering so much about poo.

She is sleeping really well.  She was sick a few weeks back with a cold and started having naps for over and hour which have stayed.  I cannot tell you how nice that is.  Although I am trying not to get too used to it as then I’ll get frustrated when she reverts back to her much shorter ones.

She is eating like a horse which I am also grateful for as well.  Although she never sits still to eat so I have to follow her around the house and up and down stairs etc.  I think I should probably train her to eat in her seat but it becomes such a drama and then she doesn’t finish that it’s easier this way.

So that’s my girl.  She is as gorgeous as ever and we just love her to bits.