We have had lots of occasions for celebrations recently, including Charlotte's second birthday. It all started with an early Chinese New Year celebration for the year of the rat at the state fairgrounds. Charlotte really liked the Lion Dance and playing with friends Savannah, Emilia and Madeline and watching the hordes of other children.
For Charlotte's birthday, we had lots of visitors and more opportunities to celebrate. First, Grandma Betty and Grandpa came, and Charlotte really liked having 4 adults in the household again to dote over her. All four of us even went to Gymboree class together! Then, Aunt Marybeth, Uncle Robert and cousin Alexandra came for the weekend of Charlotte's party. She liked seeing everyone, but Alexandra ("Al-keys" as she calls her) was clearly the main attraction. The girls had a great time together including playing peek-a-boo with Charlotte's new tunnel. Bathtime together started out well, but then Charlotte kept trying to sit in Alexandra's lap -- something she does to show affection -- and so we had to end the bath early.
Charlotte had a great time at her birthday party -- 12 children and 25 adults (including family and the birthday girl). I don't think she realized it was all for her, but after a rocky start in which the birthday girl didn't want to put on her dress, she really enjoyed seeing all of the other kids and eating lots of cake.
Then, Grandma Ann and PopPop came for Charlotte's (and Grandpa's) actual birthday and there was another party and another birthday cake, this time ice cream -- yummy. Now there were six doting adults! Charlotte and Grandpa even followed the Chinese tradition of eating long noodles. We were close to 80 degree on February 6 and were able to spend a lot of time playing outdoors.
The day after Charlotte's birthday was Chinese New Year and Chris made a traditional dinner including a whole fish (head and all) and more long noodles.
Charlotte's newest interests -- obsessions -- are Elmo and Cookie Monster. She carries both of them around the house, hugging them to her shoulders and will sometimes pat them on the backside like she is comforting a baby. They also get to share all of her food with her, get walked around in the shopping cart or stroller and Cookie Monster even wore Charlotte's shoes the other day. In fact, Charlotte likes to carry so many things around with her, she is now wearing a backpack. She loves wearing the teddy bear backpack (see below) from Mr. and Mrs. Lang, and it can fit a lot of her favorite things so she doesn't get frustrated trying to cart it all around the house.
Finally, as you will see below, Charlotte loves getting in containers and boxes. She throws Cookie and Elmo to the bottom of the lego bucket, then gets in herself and insists we put the blocks in on top of her. She is quite a character and keeps us on our toes. We are so lucky to have her with us. The daffodils and pear trees are starting to bloom here and life has been good to us; we hope that all of you in more inclement climates keep yourselves warm.
Until next time, enjoy the pictures
Charlotte, Chris & Karen
Chinese New Year Celebration
Charlotte having fun with her cousin Alexandra
The Birthday Girl
Charlotte enjoying her birthday cake
Bubbles!!
More Bubbles!!!
The Little Drummer Girl
Elmo and Cookie never leave Charlotte's side
Charlotte loves her backpack
One of them is having fun
What can I say.....she insisted!!!
3 comments:
I am always interested and look forward to seeing Charlotte grow. Thanks for sharing Charlotte's 2nd birthday with us. She is getting so big. We are looking forward to seeing all of you.
Love, Carol
Charlotte looks like so much fun! She is gorgeous! Happy Birthday!
What a joy. So glad I popped into your site. It is wonderful watching Charlotte grow. Her personality eminates in each picture. Thanks for the memories Chris, Karen and Charlotte Grace ShiCi. Love and Hugs, Susan Lumia
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