The Haricot Vert Variety

It seems that no matter how hard we try to plumpen up our little Lucas he remains very long and very thin...I like to think of him as my haricot vert baby. In comparison to the other babies I meet (and god knows mother's compare) who are more of the sugar plum variety round and rosy, Lucas' features are almost doll like and although he continues to gain the 20g/day as required and seems to replenish his diapers with that and more - I am always wondering is he eating enough?

That being said his structure leads our minds to wonder about what he will become and we imagine him having hands of a pianist, long and lean, which will deliver sultry sounds into the air, as we're all about Jazz and Bossa Nova in this house with a touch of classical to lull him to sleep during the day...Speaking of music, Papa bear Cleber loves to sing to his little one, and its heartwarming to hear him as Lucas just stares intently up at him wondering what on earth he's saying as we have three languages in the house. I try to sing, but tend to avoid singing when anyone else is around as I know my son will love me no matter and frankly I'm having to make songs up as I've forgotten all the songs I should be singing. My dad tended to sing to me in Czech and alas I wouldn't have the slightest clue as to where to begin. Must get lullabye CD in the states in order to replenish my song repetoire.

Actually grandpa Jan will indeed have the chance to sing in Czech as we're headed to the US for three weeks to visit with the Radimsky's and hopefully catch up with some old and dear friends.

We've added a few fun photos of our little guy, including one with James Wecker, my dear friend from LA who used to live in Paris. It was very fashion photo shoot as they were just too handsome for words and their outfits were quite complimentary.

We wish everyone well for the New Year....

Cheers,

Lucie-Anne and Cleber

My Faces

My parents have the chance to view my "faces" on a daily basis, I've put together a few of my favorites in the hope that they bring you happy faces....

Lucas' First Christmas in Burgundy, France

This year was quite special as we had an extra special invitation to join our friend Cynthia at her beautiful mill in Burgundy. We left Thursday morning with Marie, my sister in tow and god love her carrying my feeding cushion formerly known as "My Brest Friend" and the best thing that ever happened to breast feeding. We boarded the train and set ourselves up for the 3 hour ride...and lucy for us there was a darling baby sleeping all the way through. Love this child!!!

We arrived and the limo Passat arrived with Cynthia at the wheel to carry us to our magical mill where we would be spending the next 2 days. We settled in and proceeded to dine on magnificent local fare including gougeres (the ultimate cheesepuff, and specialty of the region) chapon (a castrated chicken), chestnuts, cheese, fabulous Burgundy wines, etc. It would have made Gourmet proud, may that magazine rest in peace...We watched a White Christmas, we laugh, we cried.

Opening presents on Christmas was a joy, we decided upon sticking stuffers for everyone so we each took turns opening up our gifst one by one and of course Cynthia added a few extra surprises for both Lucas and I. We sat by the fire reading and Cleber and Marie took a walk in the dewey countryside in the winter sun - only to come back with Mickey (Cynthia's Corgie) covered in "excrement". But apparently, according to Cleber, "Mickey looked like he was having the time of this life rolling about on the ground..." Needless to say Mickey was sent off to the bath. Christmas dinner we were joined by Pierre and Anne, a lovely couple and fellow Burgundians, who lived in another mill not far away. The topics numerous, the dinner sublime (prepared by Christian), the decor warm and festive and the company devine.

It was a magnificent Christmas, and although my parents weren't able to join us ut was as close to perfect as I've ever come.

Thanks Cynthia for your gracious hospitality and your invitation to join you in your beautiful home. I hope to return the favor someday ( meaning an invitation to large and stunning property owned by yours truly).

Happy holidays to all of you!

Lucie-Anne, Cleber and Lucas

Astro Boy - Is He or Isn't He

You had to have been there.... I was not but here's the background. Cleber asked my sister what she thought Lucas would grow up to be one day. My sister not having a response at that moment - besides a sacrastic comment about if he is still sleeping like he does in another 20 years that he's going to have difficulties holding down a job, or something to that nature....Cleber as well did not have a response although his astrological sign and Saint's Day all point to him being in the medical field. That afternoon, Marie and Cleber headed to the Carousel du Louvre to do a little shopping as well to enjoy the lights of Paris and apparently a bus drove by with an ad for ASTRO BOY a new animated film coming to theatre's near you. It seems that Astro Boy and Lucas have something in common as they love to lead with their fists and thus our little Lucas has been renamed Astro Boy. We even have the picture to prove it... =)

Tante Marie-Louise

Our first visitor from the Family arrived on December 14th. It's been wonderful having an extra set of hands to hold and to feed him. It's so very sweet to see Lucas and his Aunt together as this is his first enounter with the family. It's a little surreal for me to watch the two of them together. Lucas is so calm in her arms, she will make a terrific aunt - and Lucas will enjoy many hours of her scarcasm and her crazy laugh for years to come...

Je suis American!

On Wednesday, December 16th, Lucas Domingos Rogerio Bonato, was officially registered at the American Embassy. It was one of the most simple and agreable experiences I've ever had with an agency of this sort. Everyone working in the Passport department was so kind and congratulated us for our little wonder. We even met a charming couple with their 3 month old, Zachar, who were also there to register their little guy. Wouldn't you know it, the father is a French-American internet entrepreneur and we found that we had plenty of contacts in common. We left that day with an official certificate and an American flag... it was a beautiful start to Lucas' American adventure. As it took a little while we made a stop at the Crillon ( a 4star hotel at the concord) for a breastfeeding break (only the best for my Lucas). Then off to Montmatre to lunch with Marie at the Cave Cafe.

We'll head to the Mairie and the Brazilian consulat to register Lucas for is other 2 passports...Oh what luck he has.... now we're just working on teaching him all three languages.

Our little star....

His photo has already made the cover of a few hundred computer screens around the world that he's already developed an averse reaction to photos being taken of him - as seen by his most recent position while snoozing on Tante Cathy's lap... (See photo)

Striking family Resemblance

Cleber and I were contemplating the various attributes of our son, as parents do to clearly identify who he gets his nose from, his lips, his eyes, his sleeping patterns, etc.

We've attached a photo of me as a month old next to a photo of Lucas and we'll let you be the judge. As soon as we receive a photo of Cleber we'll dd to the blog.

Enjoy!

Weigh In

He's no heavy weight boxer, as of yet, but our little Lucas weighed in at 3,4 kilos today at our visit to the PMI. A huge relief for his parents who were hoping that their efforts would not go unnoticed. At the clinic, they certainly made me uncomfortable with the fact that Lucas hadn't stabilized nor took on weight so this weigh in was an incredibly important moment for us. The little things like diapers and feedings take on a whole new importance and we're thanking the big man upstairs for offering us only good news related to the health of our little Lucas.

This past weekend was quite gourmand as Lucas had the pleasure of three lovely visitors, his first since his birth. Diane Perro of SF, a dear friend took the time to stop by to visit with Lucas. She not only brought her energy but lovely gifts for Lucas which we appreciated greatly, so thank you again Diane. And Lucas also had the pleasure of meeting our witnesses and dear friends Francois and Pascale, who are the very reason why Cleber and I met. What a wonderful way to have spent our Saturday and we are so loving the opportunity for Lucas to meet so many special people. We are thrilled to have visitors (preferably healthy and ready to undergo extensive handwashing and disinfectant rituals overseen by my husband) who have a moment to stop by as our outings are quite restricted at the moment.

I've added a few photos to allow you to enjoy Lucas as he enters into his second week of life.

Scorpio like his father and Ox like his mother, and other fascinating tidbits related to Lucas

SCORPIO
October 23 - November 21
Planet - Mars & Pluto
Element - Water


When a Scorpio baby enters the world, all eyes will focus on them. And that's exactly how it will be for a long time to come, as this baby must be the center of attention! To that end, this is quite the manipulative little tot, sucking up energy from everyone around. The Scorpio baby is also a bit mysterious, making it hard to figure out what's wrong when the crying starts. So often, it's something which is seething below the surface and will be very hard to draw out of this child. You must also consider power struggles when thinking of this child, as the Scorpio baby will expect that Mom, Dad, and everyone else will fit into their schedule and plans. Make no mistake, this is a powerful child! The flip side of this is that this baby is quite clear on what they want and can get that message across. One important note: Scorpio babes loathe lounging in dirty diapers, so change them often! (OH SO TRUE!!!)Many times, this can be the simple source of their discomfort, although the malady may not always be so clear. For that reason, the Scorpio baby should be watched closely. Someone will generally be watching this child, though, as the Scorpio tot enjoys a crowd, especially one where it can lead. To sum up, the Scorpio baby is clever, wants things on their own terms, and will know how to get it. Watch out!

OX
1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009


Ox people are hard-working and persistent, they can stick at a task longer and go at it harder than anybody. They believe in themselves and tend to classify almost everything into two basic categories, bad and good. They hold up their high standards as a model and severely judge those who don't aspire to maintain these same ideals.
Ox people are not social or party animals, they tend to be quiet when in a party. Although appears to be tranquil, in fact, Oxens are ponderous but impulsive when angry. They are capable of fearsome rages, therefore, it is better not to cross an Oxen.

Ox people are observant, they have remarkable memories and are good at reporting on absolutely everything they observe. Go ask an Oxen if he remembers who were at the party 8 months ago, most likely, he will name them one by one to you.

In the home, the Ox is a great guy to have around. In business, the OX can succeed in the arts, a contracting business, or an estate., thanks to their creative nature. And since an Ox is intelligent and good at his hands, he can be a good surgeon as well.

Ox people are stubborn and dogmatic, they believe in their decision and will never regret. They are also very close to their families. disappointedly, Oxens often find that those who are close to them fail to understand them. Nevertheless, they are patient, and caring and that makes the Oxen the best friend you can ever have.

Oxens are very responsible and loyal. Ox people are seldom jealous. but they will be jealous of their rights; and the fidelity of a husband or a wife is one of their rights. They are very family-oriented, conservative and faithful.





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The Ox works hard, patiently, and methodically, with original intelligence and reflective thought. These people enjoy helping others. Behind this tenacious, laboring, and self-sacrificing exterior lies an active mind. While their balance and strength inspire confidence, Oxen can seem rigid, obstinate, and slow. They impress others as leaders, fearing neither responsibility nor risk. However, sometimes they must labor long hours to accomplish little.
The Chinese say the time of year and day an Ox is born is important in determining lifestyle. One woman in Hong Kong bragged that she would always be financially provided for with minimal effort on her part because she was born on a winter night. Oxen have little to do during the winter months, she explained, because the sweat of summer and fall harvesting is over and it is up to the farmer to feed and keep the oxen warm so they'll have strength for spring planting. Oxen born during agricultural months, however, are sentenced to a life of hard labor.

People born under the influence of the Ox are kind, caring souls, logical, positive, filled with common sense and with their feet firmly planted on the ground. Security is their main preoccupation in life, and they are prepared to toil long and hard in order to provide a warm, comfortable and stable nest for themselves and their families. Strong-minded, stubborn, individualistic, the majority are highly intelligent individuals who doen't take kindly to being told what to do.

Although Ox people don't ask to be put in the limelight, they do like to be boss, for these quietly dominant types enjoy being in positions of power. Oxen try to instill in those around them the rigor, determination and power of work which they themselves possess. Respecting others, they are always open to a dialogue. Even though they may not broadcast their virtues to the world, nevertheless it is that steady, conscientious attitude that will deservedly see them to the top.

The Oxen's childhood and youth will generally be without incident. It is in the second part of their lives that they will encounter difficulties to do with their marriage. Their partners may well take offense at their apparent indifference and seek consolation elsewhere in an attempt to find the romance so conspicuously absent at home. If this happens and the Ox cannot put things right by the exercise of intelligence, the ruin of the entire family may be risked as Oxen have no time for a deviation they are unable to understand. During the third part of life, Oxen may suffer enormous difficulties but if they can manage to smooth them out, their old age will be peaceful.

The Affectionate Ox

Oxen make solid, steady, reliable partners. They can be tender, devoted, sensual even -- but they are never romantic. Very affectionate to those close to their hearts, they are cool and distant to anyone outside their emotional circle. Getting close to an Ox is a very difficult thing to do, for they hold all but their chosen few at arm's length. However, once they have committed themselves, they make loyal, steadfast lovers and are the least likely of all the signs to possess a roving eye. Casual love affairs are definitely not the Ox's style. Although they may not show it, their emotions are deep and passionate. If their love is spurned or if they should suffer a broken heart, they will retreat inside themselves and channel all their emotions into their work. Generally, they make no mistakes in their judgment of others, successfully merging their romantic and family lives. Happily settled in a contented relationship, an Ox will make a supportive and faithful partner, someone whose love grows stronger by the year and whose sterling qualities are worth his or her weight in gold.

The Rooster, Rat and Serpent get on very well with Oxen. There are struggles and problems with the Monkey, and a lack of understanding with the Ram and the Boar.

Popular belief is adamant that the Ox should under no circumstances set up house with the Tiger. Such a partnership would inevitably end in a battle that could terminate only with the departure or disappearance of the Tiger. The Ox, the stronger of the two, would keep on charging until the Tiger was destroyed. An Ox mother could never get on with a Tiger child -- better for the latter to leave home!

February is the month of the Ox. The time of the Ox is from 1:00 a.m. to 2:59 a.m.; their direction of orientation is north-northeast. The Ox's color is violet.

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St. Luke - October 18

Saint Luke
Feastday: October 18
Patron Physicians and Surgeons



Saint Luke
Luke, the writer of the Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles, has been identified with St. Paul's "Luke, the beloved physician" (Colossians 4:14). We know few other facts about Luke's life from Scripture and from early Church historians.

It is believed that Luke was born a Greek and a Gentile. In Colossians 10-14 speaks of those friends who are with him. He first mentions all those "of the circumcision" -- in other words, Jews -- and he does not include Luke in this group. Luke's gospel shows special sensitivity to evangelizing Gentiles. It is only in his gospel that we hear the parable of the Good Samaritan, that we hear Jesus praising the faith of Gentiles such as the widow of Zarephath and Naaman the Syrian (Lk.4:25-27), and that we hear the story of the one grateful leper who is a Samaritan (Lk.17:11-19). According to the early Church historian Eusebius Luke was born at Antioch in Syria.

In our day, it would be easy to assume that someone who was a doctor was rich, but scholars have argued that Luke might have been born a slave. It was not uncommon for families to educate slaves in medicine so that they would have a resident family physician. Not only do we have Paul's word, but Eusebius, Saint Jerome, Saint Irenaeus and Caius, a second-century writer, all refer to Luke as a physician.

We have to go to Acts to follow the trail of Luke's Christian ministry. We know nothing about his conversion but looking at the language of Acts we can see where he joined Saint Paul. The story of the Acts is written in the third person, as an historian recording facts, up until the sixteenth chapter. In Acts 16:8-9 we hear of Paul's company "So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. During the night Paul had a vision: there stood a man of Macedonia pleading with him and saying, 'Come over to Macedonia and help us.' " Then suddenly in 16:10 "they" becomes "we": "When he had seen the vision, we immediately tried to cross over to Macedonia, being convinced that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them."

So Luke first joined Paul's company at Troas at about the year 51 and accompanied him into Macedonia where they traveled first to Samothrace, Neapolis, and finally Philippi. Luke then switches back to the third person which seems to indicate he was not thrown into prison with Paul and that when Paul left Philippi Luke stayed behind to encourage the Church there. Seven years passed before Paul returned to the area on his third missionary journey. In Acts 20:5, the switch to "we" tells us that Luke has left Philippi to rejoin Paul in Troas in 58 where they first met up. They traveled together through Miletus, Tyre, Caesarea, to Jerusalem.

Luke is the loyal comrade who stays with Paul when he is imprisoned in Rome about the year 61: "Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings to you, and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers" (Philemon 24). And after everyone else deserts Paul in his final imprisonment and sufferings, it is Luke who remains with Paul to the end: "Only Luke is with me" (2 Timothy 4:11).

Luke's inspiration and information for his Gospel and Acts came from his close association with Paul and his companions as he explains in his introduction to the Gospel: "Since many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, I too decided, after investigating everything carefully from the very first, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus" (Luke 1:1-3).

Luke's unique perspective on Jesus can be seen in the six miracles and eighteen parables not found in the other gospels. Luke's is the gospel of the poor and of social justice. He is the one who tells the story of Lazarus and the Rich Man who ignored him. Luke is the one who uses "Blessed are the poor" instead of "Blessed are the poor in spirit" in the beatitudes. Only in Luke's gospel do we hear Mary 's Magnificat where she proclaims that God "has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty" (Luke 1:52-53).

Luke also has a special connection with the women in Jesus' life, especially Mary. It is only in Luke's gospel that we hear the story of the Annunciation, Mary's visit to Elizabeth including the Magnificat, the Presentation, and the story of Jesus' disappearance in Jerusalem. It is Luke that we have to thank for the Scriptural parts of the Hail Mary: "Hail Mary full of grace" spoken at the Annunciation and "Blessed are you and blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus" spoken by her cousin Elizabeth.

Forgiveness and God's mercy to sinners is also of first importance to Luke. Only in Luke do we hear the story of the Prodigal Son welcomed back by the overjoyed father. Only in Luke do we hear the story of the forgiven woman disrupting the feast by washing Jesus' feet with her tears. Throughout Luke's gospel, Jesus takes the side of the sinner who wants to return to God's mercy.

Reading Luke's gospel gives a good idea of his character as one who loved the poor, who wanted the door to God's kingdom opened to all, who respected women, and who saw hope in God's mercy for everyone.

The reports of Luke's life after Paul's death are conflicting. Some early writers claim he was martyred, others say he lived a long life. Some say he preached in Greece, others in Gaul. The earliest tradition we have says that he died at 84 Boeotia after settling in Greece to write his Gospel.

A tradition that Luke was a painter seems to have no basis in fact. Several images of Mary appeared in later centuries claiming him as a painter but these claims were proved false. Because of this tradition, however, he is considered a patron of painters of pictures and is often portrayed as painting pictures of Mary.

He is often shown with an ox or a calf because these are the symbols of sacrifice -- the sacrifice Jesus made for all the world.

Luke is the patron of physicians and surgeons.