Spring is Here!...dirty toes and all!

Wrapping Up Winter

As with most things in my life this winter, The Innate has suffered from my hibernation tendencies - probably more accurately described as a lack of motivation and general disgruntledness. But as Charlie changes daily I know I have a special obligation to keep his distant family connected with each new stage and development.

So, here are a few final pictures from this winter.

Grammy bought him a Flexible Flyer for his birthday! It was a hit...in the living room. I'm afraid we'll have to wait till next year to really enjoy it in the snow.

Every week Charlie has a friend over to play.

And on Daddy's day off, Mama takes one too!

This February, just shy of his 88th birthday, my husband's grandpa passed away. Though we will miss him, we had many reasons to rejoice with thanksgiving. His passing was peaceful at the end, and he is now experiencing life as we can only imagine. His memorial service was beautiful - a good representation of his hope and a happy remembrance of his life.

In this picture: Pop Pop (wearing his favorite T-shirt - "Family is like a fruitcake: Mostly sweet with a few nuts") and great grandson, Jude Packard


For the occasion little Charlie dressed up in his birthday suit (no pun intended) from Grandma and Grandpa. Despite the pasta sauce on his vest, he looked like a serious participant.

And so the winter has passed with a succession of the profound and superficial.
All important to us.

Memories from Minnesota

The Star of the Show

Judah got a lot of attention...wanted or otherwise.

During this trip Charlie seemed to come into his own as an eater.
Finger food is now the name of the game!

Since their bath together at the cabin was fun for everyone and a great photo-opportunity we thought we'd try it again...

Oh well.

Uncle Josh was a hit! Charlie seems to have a special place in his heart for men.
I'm sure he was also missing his daddy.

What fun it was to be three moms with three babies!

This became a common sight around the house:

...and this:

Charlie's First Birthday

Charlie turned one on February 20th. To celebrate Bryonie and Josh treated us to Ruben sandwiches and cup-cakes from Yum, a local Jewish deli/bakery.
It lived up to its name!

His enthusiasm grew as soon as he got that tasty stuff in his mouth.
Our son is what you might call a Good Eater.

We were also able to skype with mom. First time I'd done that successfully.
Thanks, Josh.

This may be the first time Charlie showed interest in a book. The fire truck, car, tractor and train sounds had nothing to do with it, I'm sure!

Love this one...

Love this one too...

Playing with his birthday gift from Grandma and Grandpa...still working on the excitement factor to gift-opening.

I'll finish up with some cousin favorites:

Sneak Peek

More pics from MN to come...