First time "pee" on the big girl potty!

For a couple weeks now, Elle Belle has been saying, "poop" when she poops.  We haven't really done much in the way of potty training except for small hints when we go to the bathroom, suggesting her to sit on her potty when she wants to, reading the "Potty Book for Girls," etc.  But, tonight was a different story!  After giving Eliana her bath, Nate had put her up on the changing table when she said, "pee."  He thought she had already peed and tried to feel the towel.  It was dry.  A minute later, she started to pee and Nate said, "wait, wait, wait."  When she started again, he said it and this time rushed her into her bathroom.  We left the room and sneaked pictures from around the corner.  We thought she had already gotten out what she needed in the bits on the changing table, but after this hilarious video, we went and looked in the potty and it was full of pee. We started jumping up and down, giving Eliana high-fives, telling her we were proud of her....she wasn't as excited as we were, but a nice step to take!  Good job, Elle Belle! 

Looking at the video, I can hardly see how she was able to potty; she was so into putting her shoes on....so funny!!

July, 2011

Continuing 2011 year in review...

Highlights (in chronological order):

1. Ana Rosa's visit

2. Fun summer days

3. Camping at Red Bridge

4. Auntie Amy's visit to Seattle

Ana Rosa's Visit
I was so lucky to get Ana Rosa in Seattle for a weekend.  Due to her master's program, she had to travel to Portland and she extended her trip to come see us.  What a treat!  We reminisced about our JET days, enjoyed a night out the two of us and most important, she got to meet Eliana.  Sadly, we didn't get to have the treat of hosting Jose Antonia and Frida, too, but hopefully we'll have a reunion again soon.  Come back again, Tia! 

 At Discovery Beach with Tia Ana Rosa

 At the Sculpture park

 Seward Park beach

 Ana Rosa had to study one night, so we took advantage due to her insistence and headed out on a date.  Thank you!!

 Mr. Bear goes everywhere with Elle Belle

 Not accustomed to the Seattle "warm" summers, Ana Rosa took the swim opportunity to bundle up on the side of the pool.  Not quite the 100 degree Charlotte summer!

 Checking out the summer salmon run at the Locks

Fun Summer Days

 Always a strong appetite, Elle Belle could knock down a full ear of corn by herself.

 Play time in the backyard

 4th of July on Michelle's parent's boat on Lake Union

 Water or no water, the swimming pool was a hit

 Seattle Center

 Cheers, Daddy!

Fountains at U-village were fun, too!

 Nate, Elle Belle, Robert & Katherine Newman, Brett & Lily Schlameus

 Summer play at Katherine's house

 Lily, Katherine and Elle Belle

 Discovery Beach

 Another zoo concert; Brandi Carlile with the Redmans and Wellners

 Golden Gardens beach

Camping at Red Bridge
We had a wonderful 2-night camp trip outside of Verlot on the Mountain Loop Highway.  Elle Belle learned a new skill - throwing rocks in the river - and was entertained for hours doing this.  The weather was great and we had a blast hanging out.  I even snuck a short day-hike in with Anna.  What a treat for everyone.

 Doesn't quite look like a rock meant for skipping...

 Camp bath

 Who said I need help learning to fish?

 Anna and I's day hike

 Back at camp with the professional rock-thrower

 Mountain air makes me sleepy

Auntie Amy's visit

 Spoiled at the aquarium....Sally and Otter are now permanent bed time friends.  Thanks, Auntie Amy!

 We spent a wonderful night after work at Mounger Pool (on Magnolia).  Niko's take-out Greek food and swimming, what a perfect treat!!

 At the Locks

 Exploring the garden portion of the Locks

 It was so fun to have Amy here.  We had tickets at the Zoo to the Indigo Girls, so Amy and I packed a picnic (with white wine!) and loved listening to the music.

Our pantry box stacker!