Uncle Austin

A very important aspect of Anjali's life that I haven't focused on specifically is having Austin live with us! He fell into our household groove seamlessly. Having him around brings us greater harmony, and helps things go more smoothly ~ and more fun! He and I love cooking together, and inspire each other, I think, to do even more and make it even yummier! Papi and Austin have gone for bike rides together, and have fun working on projects around the house.

Anjali has a special relationship with Austin that's all their own. In the morning she goes into his room and visits him while he's doing business on his computer and listening to music. They peek out the window at the chickens, and dance in the mirror to music. They skype with his friends, and take photos and make little videos of themselves on the computer.

Taking fun photos on the computer with Uncle Austin.

They even invented a very popular game for Anjali: the belly-tickle game. If Anjali points to your belly and says, "Deedle eedle eedle eedle ee!" it is your turn to lift up your shirt and show her your belly. When she touches your belly (she doesn't actually tickle at this point), you laugh. Then when she lifts up her shirt, you tickle her belly, and she laughs. This goes on until everyone in the room has exposed their belly at least once. It's a great ice-breaker for new friends who come to the house for the first time! (hee hee!)

Austin is traveling right now for six weeks ~ in Australia and New Zealand with family and friends. We miss him, and realize what an integral part of our home he already is since moving here in November. He is dear to all of our hearts.

"Sushi Puke," by Anjali and Austin