Charlotte's Web

From Month 13

I wasn't sure whether I would continue the monthly pictures or try to shift into a more event-specific posting style. The end result was nothing got posted (other than ice skating, of course!). These are extremely late, so I will keep it brief.

Since her birthday Charlotte has been working on her top four teeth, which have all decided to come in together. It is super cute when she smiles in such a way that allows us to catch a glimpse of them.

We have been out and about this past month and having a lot of fun exploring "toddler-friendly" places around us. Charlotte is definitely at an age where she NEEDS to get out of the house. She really responds well to being outside and playing with other kids. She has a ton of energy and sometimes it takes a trip to the park to tire her out.

We took a family trip to the San Mateo County Fair where Charlotte got introduced to her first petting zoo. I was apprehensive at first (germs, and dirty stuff) but after I saw her chasing after the pot belly pigs, the ducks and the goats I realized she would be just fine. The petting zoo was great, full of animals just her size, and a perfect environment for her to practice her signs. We have the cutest videos once I figure out how to post them. We also saw some cows and big sheep,and both performed their trademark sounds on cue (mooo, baaaa) which amused Charlotte. On a side note: Boyz to Men were the headlining band at the fair, but we missed them, bummer :(

Charlotte has developed up a very musical side to her. She loves to drum and play piano and dance. I am always surprised at her ability to make music that isn't annoying, but actually rhythmic. She even went to her first concert ever this month; the Sippy Cups were playing at her friend's 1st birthday party, she was so into the music she stormed the stage to show off her dancing skills! Her latest dance move has been named the "mamma dance" and she spins around in circles until she falls down. So cute (and very close to how I actually do dance!).

Other outings this month include a trip to the SF Zoo with some of Charlotte's baby friends, a trip to the the Ferry Building and Pier 39 to visit the sea lions (for grammie), a few trips to the city for playdates, and a surprise birthday party for her friend Karolyn.

This month Charlotte also abruptly stopped nursing. It was very sad for me, but she made it clear she was ready to move on. She has taken to cows milk and soy milk very easily and will eat just about anything we put in front of her so we aren't worried. While she does enjoy eating a variety of foods if you ask her what she wants she always gives the same response: cracker. I guess she has a sweet tooth!

She seems to be changing so quickly these days, amazing us with something different each day. It's great to see her personality develop, especially her sense of humor. We love her so much! Enjoy some pictures from her 13th month of life.