Book Babies

Wednesday is library day. At eleven o'clock they have a baby story time followed by a playtime. It wasn't our typical story time and I admit I knew this day would come. Now that Emma is confidently walking, there's no stopping her- certainly not for twenty minutes of structured storytelling. She sat in my lap for two songs, clapping after "The Itsy Bitsy Spider," then she was off- places to go, aisles to explore. Emma did listen to my requests to leave the books on the shelves and was happy to toddle up and down each aisle, sometimes holding a beanie baby bird (she was very fond of TY "Early") or stopping to pick at the labels on shelves. 

Emma discovered a large stuffed animal Owl and instantly made friends. I'm not sure what it is that attracts her to birds but I am embracing this fascination. We stop to point out the robins and finches we see on our nature walks; we greet Canadian geese at the pond; we sing "Five Little Ducks" which is a current favorite of hers. Today I just sat back and admired her enthusiasm for a plush owl.

Lets go, owl. 

New Shoes, canary yellow Skidders

.. And that meant a trip to the park to test them out.

Look at those bananas! 

Well, they work. It was Emma's first time walking alone in the grass and I had a hard time bringing the trip to an end. She would have rather stayed at the park and practiced her walking and she made sure I knew it. There's always tomorrow, Emma! 

We're goin' to the Zoo!

It's a great day for a trip to the Bronx Zoo. We loaded up the stroller and snacks and arrived just after 11. Our first encounter was in the World of Birds where Emma got up close to an Ocellated Turkey. 

Gobble Gobble, those toes look tasty!

After plenty of walking and animal exhibits we took a ride on the Bug Carousel. Emma was not very excited about riding on a Mantis but sat for a picture and enjoyed the ride from Mommy's arms. 

Butterflies, yeah!! 

She sure is :)

(See?)

 Did you know that birds are one of Emma's biggest interests? She loved looking at the different swans, geese and ducks. A diving duck always gets a smile from this baby.

Lions, tigers, and bears, ohh, zzzzzz..

Well we stayed all day and we're gettin' sleepy 
Sittin' in the car gettin' sleep sleep sleepy
Home already gettin' sleep sleep sleepy
'Cause we have stayed all day. 

Emma and Catrick

It hasn't always been like this. When we first brought Emma home, Catrick ignored her completely. Over time Emma became more interested in Catrick and began to approach him, each time growing in size and assertiveness. 

"What's this?!"

The first cuddle... Emma happened to be napping in Catrick's favorite spot.

Pre crawling, Emma can only reach and Cat can easily jump away.

Belly rubs! When Emma started crawling she began diving into Catrick's fluffy belly. It's such a soft and wonderful place.

Here she has learned how Catrick likes to be pet, with an open hand patting down on his top line.. Catrick is o-k with this.

(ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

(｡’▽’｡)♡

Emma is thrilled about petting Catrick, and Catrick is compliant. Sometimes he even seems to enjoy it! I'm happy to report that no one has any scratches or bald patches, and their relationship is beginning to flourish, despite cat's hesitation.

And when Emma is able to give Catrick treats I know they will be best friends.

What's for breakfast?

Goo morning! You know, every great day starts with a great breakfast. What's on Emma's plate this morning? A tasty omelette stuffed with red pepper, spinach, mushrooms, and topped with white cheddar cheese. She's also got some steamed carrots and toast, and of course she eats all of everything I give her.. What a little moose!

After breakfast we wash up, dress, and begin today's adventures. Here we go!

First post

Watching Emma grow and explore the world is a precious thing. Every moment, no mater how small, is a memory for our books. I'm going to be posting some of those moments here to share with you, family and friends. 

Starting with today's adventure, a hike in Depew Park:

 Resting in the shade and investigating a stick

Pointing out the stream

 We had a great nature walk! 

More adventures on the way :)