The sublime reciprocity of first friends

Olivia loves Noema. They were first friends. Here, Noema pays Olivia a visit to practice remarkable sharing. I hope someday they run the world.

Charlie the Clambird

When we visited the arboretum on our way out of Vancouver, we were delighted to find so many awesome birds living among the greenery. Charlie charmed us by saying "Hello Charlie" over and over, which Olivia loved. He clammed right up, though, once the video started rolling. Enjoy this decidedly one-sided conversation between Olivia and Charlie.

Pigtails and Rockets

The kiddie rocket launcher at Angel's party was a big hit. Olivia loved it, but only if she could launch solo. Once another kid joined in and parents had to negotiate 1) loading, and 2) launching, the turns got all out of control and anxious-making for everyone. This is Olivia, blissful, launching by herself (with MommyDaddy audience).

Pea pods

Nature created pea pods for parents. Not only do they provide fabulous nutrition, but shelling them is apparently riveting for toddlers. Well, at least our toddler. Her love affair for these things began in our garden and now requires that we continue fueling her habit with stash from Whole Foods. I'm envisioning her shelling peas to pass the time during her college graduation ceremony. Oh -- and here you see her throwing in a little "CHEESE!!!!" as well.

Mini dance (cock-headed)

This video is on its side and I don't know how to turn it 90 degrees. (Damon? You there??) Nevertheless, I had to post it. Olivia launched into a spontaneous chicken/floor pounding dance that I manged to capture on video. Here she is jammin' among the merchandise in the loft.

Letter in my pocket

When Grandpa aka Papa was here visiting I snuck up on their conversation one morning and shot this video. Papa is great at explaining things, like how many toes Olivia and Baby have. Olivia is great at tricks, like finding letters in his pockets.

The Alphabet Easel

The Easel is the next Big Baby Toy in rotation, and Olivia loves it a lot. It features chalk drawing on one side and magnetic letters on the other. It replaces the toddler table where Olivia dined on Cheerios and raisins. Now that table is living at Lauren and Kevin's house, waiting for Baby Collins to enjoy it.

When Daddy busts out the letters, you can tell Olivia is into the easel. Wait for the WOWWW!!

Dookoo, Auntie Erin and Uncle Todd. (Dookoo = thank you).