Charlotte Walks!

Charlotte is full-blown walking now! She's a little wobbly but her little legs and arms try to keep their balance. It is fun to see how determined she is! We went to the aquarium for Father's Day, right before we dropped Eben off at the airport to head to the east coast. The kids are (clearly) way more interested in the touch tank than the camera. Charlotte is happy she can reach her fingers in the water all by herself now.

Examining the jellyfish tunnel.
The lights in the tunnel change colors and illuminate the jellyfish - making them look really cool.
At least we have six eyes looking at the camera.... Happy Father's Day, Dada!
Future astronaut?

JUNE - Outdoor Fun

I'm not usually a complainer. But I must say that this past spring was really lousy. So it is nice that summer is finally showing up. We have had a few nice days of sunny weather and have taken full advantage of them! Edison got those "rock star" glasses from Nana and the flag from Bestemor at Charlotte's party - he was pretty excited about them as you can see!
Nothing like bubbles! I think I've finally found one that won't spill - since this picture was taken we've already gone through two big containers that Edison accidently tipped over. He also added water to one of them and was surprised it didn't work when he filled it up...
We let Charlotte play with an empty bottle. She'll catch on soon, but for now she likes to practice getting the wand into the bottle.
I also bought a water play table for the summer. Let me me tell you - it has already paid for itself in the hours of entertainment it has provided for both of the kids.
What is it about filling up a bucket and dumping it down a water wheel that is so satisfying?
Yay - it is time for picnic lunches on the deck! I love eating al fresco!
She's not quite scooting on it yet, but she'll toddle over and sit on it for awhile, honk the horn and check out the basket in the front.
Keep your fingers crossed for more good weather for Seattle!

Charlotte's First Birthday!

Charlotte strikes a pose.

We had our friends and family over for a picnic on Charlotte's birthday. We actually celebrated on Monday, her actual birthday. Here she is with Nana in a rare picture sans pacifier.
She tastes the yummy cake.... she likes it!
Mmmmmmmmmm
Edison with his best pal, Grace.
Charlotte with her great-grandmother Bestamor. (Norwegian for great grandmother)
Two kids, one photo, zero eyeballs on the camera. Oh well!
As you can see, Charlotte is a pinky grip away from walking on her own.
She was really interested in her presents. This is a pin that says "Adeline" on it (Charlotte's middle name, named after her great-grandmother Bestamor). The pin was given to Bestamor Adeline on her fourth birthday in 1918. It is a beautiful treasure and was so special to receive. Thank you!
Charlotte liked reading her birthday cards! She also got some really cute clothes - you'll just have to wait for the pictures in the blog once she wears them!

Charlotte with her first doll - a present from Nana.

She is also really excited about this toy, a talking doggie. I had to go online to program it, but it can now say "I love you Charlotte" and plays a bunch of music that I selected, among other talents. Thanks Uncle Floyd & Auntie Kathie! And thank you to everyone for celebrating with us and for supporting us as we raise our kids. You are a wonderful bunch of family and friends!