Charlie Leu

Halloween & All Things Oktober...

2011-10-31T16:34:00.000-07:00

This year Charlie was Buzz Light Year from Toy Story - his FAVORITE movie. He happily flew around in his costume with his inflatable wings, trick-or-treating for his favorite candy - CHOCOLATE!

And recently, Charlie fell out of bed in the middle of the night. I rushed in to tuck him back in and found him really upset because he claimed, 'it smells like bargage!' 'Charlie love, that's your diaper...we had asparagus for dinner.'

I absolutely LOVE this goofball.

Field Trip to the Academy of Sciences

2011-10-04T15:39:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate to be a chaperone for the field trip to the Academy of Sciences. It was a treat to see the exhibits through their eyes, and really special to spend time getting to know more of his classmates.

All eyes on a butterfly.

Checking out the albino alligator.

Summer Fun 2012

2011-08-26T23:06:00.000-07:00

With summer coming to an end, I thought we should reflect on some of our grand summer adventures and every day moments.

DJing with Daddy in the Mission and enjoying some sort of bubbly soda - an extra bonus treat.

Charlie just being his cute self after swim class.

His cow pillow. It's like his security blanket. It comes everywhere.

Meeting Max Katzin for the first time.

Bewildered by the nudging goats at the Noe Valley Summer Festival.

Making the most of a foggy and chilly summer day in San Francisco at Crissy Field.

Tahoe Summer Vacation 2012

2011-07-04T23:20:00.000-07:00

We shared a house in Tahoe with Nana and Papa, with the Armisteads right up the road. It was a really relaxing and adventure filled 4th of July vacation week.

Beach time at Meeks Bay.

Pancake breakfast with the Tahoe Fire Department!

Sharing a gondola ride with Papa - one of Charlie's FAVORITE things to do in Tahoe.

Charlie playing monster!

Hiking with Papa and Shadow.

An afternoon at the pool.

Hanging out with the entire clan...

Charlie Starts Preschool - PKDW

2011-06-20T23:47:00.000-07:00

Charlie started at his new preschool, PKDW - Potrero Kids at Daniel Webster. The school is FABULOUS and he is already thriving. Here are a few pictures from his first few days.

Charlie getting to know his new teach Clint.

Admiring the passing garbage truck during recess, of course!

Kick ball!

I think he is in for a really colorful and bright journey during the next 2 years!

Camp Mather 2012

2011-06-16T22:59:00.000-07:00

This year at Camp Mather it was ALL about the bike for Charlie. At the beginning of the week he would 'ride' his scoot bike by just standing over it and walking. But by the end of the week he was sitting down, balancing & cruising everywhere. Living in San Francisco, it's challenging to find a flat road and a good chunk of time to really practice. THANK YOU CAMP MATHER!!!

Happily riding Sweetie Tweetie, the famous (and ancient) donkey.

One of my favorite moments of the week. I realize these will be far and fewer between as he gets older, and I so promise to revisit this moment often in years to come!

Charlie Starts Swim Lessons

2011-05-27T12:32:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting and waiting for this day, but super nervous that it was going to be welcomed with tears and resistance towards getting in the pool. Charlie completely surprised me. By the second class he happily plopped down on his step and eagerly started to stick his face in the water. With a little convincing he put his goggles on and already is turning into a fish. I actually think he might just be the class clown!

Happily practicing at home in the tub.

Happy 3rd Birthday Charlie!

2011-04-29T21:06:00.000-07:00

For weeks leading up to Charlie's 3rd birthday I had been plotting to have a huge birthday party in a park with a special appearance of a TACO TRUCK...but when I stopped and asked him what he wanted he only really wanted 2 things- a 'Banilla Bargage Truck' and Ivania & Maya. So to honor his birthday wishes, we had a small gathering at our house with a few of his favorite neighborhood friends (the Uttings, the Cohen/Halpern Family, Ivania, and Nini) and of course, a garbage truck cake!

his BANILLA BARGAGE TRUCK cake...

Ivania & Maya....

Opening presents with Nini.

Happy 3rd Birthday my sweet Charlie bear! May the next year be full of adventures, new beginnings, and loads of laughter. I love you sweet peach.

Happy Valentines Day Charlie.

2011-02-14T13:09:00.000-08:00

Every time I say good-bye to Charlie we go through a this ritual.

Mommy
I Love you to the moon and back.
Charlie
I love you moon and the back.

Mommy
I love you like crazy.
Charlie
I think you're crazy.

Mommy
I think you're something special.
Charlie
I think you're sometin special.

Mommy
I'm really proud of you.
Charlie
I really proud you.

Mommy
You're the most important little boy in my life.
Charlie
You most immmm-mortant my life.

Mommy
I LOVE you Charlie.
Charlie
I LOVE you Mommy.

Dawn of a New Era

2011-01-31T17:01:00.000-08:00

Charlie & his love for the PETA. When he was a baby his pacifier was quickly nicknamed 'peta' - short for chupete, spanish for pacifier. He (& we I suppose) carried it everywhere. We tried to limit usage to just sleeping...but how can you say no to something that brings such peace. I always joked he turned into a bird on his back as soon as he put it in. But as we approached 3 and as those sweet little teeth started to buck out, it became apparent it was time to hand it over to the Peta Fairy. An overwhelming thought for us all.

The plan was simple.

Step 1. Pack up all of Charlie's petas and mail them off to the Peta Fairy, who in turn would gift them to a new baby.

Step 2. Go directly to the toy store and give Charlie free reign to pick out a toy of his choice as a symbol of him becoming a 'big boy.'

Step 3. Hold our breath that it works.

How the plan unfolded.

I shipped Maggie off to the zoo with a friend to give Charlie & I the morning together to say good-bye to the peta. The idea of going to the post office and mailing the petas off to the fairy was definitely intriguing. You can see here that he is a bit apprehensive, and not entirely wanting to let go.

...but a little reminder of our trip to the toy store & the promise he could hand it off to the mail truck was all he needed.

We popped up to Ambassador Toys in West Portal, and Charlie didn't have any interest in picking out a toy. His only care, playing at the train table. 30 minutes later & a little coxing he made his way to the Tomas the Train display. He picked out a new train & off we went.

Oh wait, bribe #2 - M&Ms.

and bribe #3 - Blue Bottle Hot Chocolate.

It's been a few days now, and he has been a CHAMP about it. He has asked a few times, but nothing he hasn't been able to quickly move past. I think the biggest lesson for us was how easy it is to build up anxiety around thinking it would be harder than it was.

Now onto potty training....

1st Trip to the Emergency Room

2010-11-25T22:00:00.000-08:00

School called me today to say Charlie had fallen and bit his tongue. They were able to stop the bleeding, and Charlie didn't seem too bothered by it as he gobbled up his lunch and went down for his nap. Based on the report, I assumed he was ok and that I would pick him up normal time.

When I arrived for pick up he was walking around with his tongue sticking out. I took a look at it and was a bit shocked at how deep it was....so I quickly made the call to take him to have a Doctor look at it. I was worried it would get infected and wasn't sure if he would need stitches.

The entire Leu crew converge on the pediatric ER, only to find out that he was just fine. Gave us an antibiotic and a 'you won't even see it in a week.'

Whew.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T22:31:00.000-07:00

This past few months Charlie & Maggie have just fallen in love with the movie Ponyo. So in an effort to put them in coordinating costumes, Maggie decided to be Ponyo and Charlie was Soscai. Grandma Leu made Maggie's costume - it was beautiful! Here they are at Charlie's Halloween party at The Crayonbox Preschool.

Charlie's Halloween artwork.

And the never fail entertainment of bubbles (with his buddy Jack in the background)!

But, at the end of the day the back-up plan went into action for trick-or-treating on Halloween. He was a FIREMAN...who was more into the idea of going up to houses & getting candy than eating it.

A Summer Vacation in Minnesota

2010-08-15T21:44:00.000-07:00

I took the kids to Minneapolis for a week to soak up that much needed summertime-midwest-warm weather-ice cream truck-giggles with cousins goodness. It was Charlie's first time visiting my home town, and I am pretty sure he looooooved every single moment. Some of his highlights: the ice cream truck, bowling for the first time, feeding Grace's geckos crickets, roasting marshmallows over the fire, watching the cow milked at the zoo, jumping on the 'jumpoline', POPSICLES (Aunt Red spoiled him with 2 each time!), chasing the girls, napping at the pool, and belling up on the kitchen bar stool for snacks! Several weeks later and he still keeps asking for Grace, 'Mommy, where Gracie???'

He adored the trampoline, and in his excitement combined the word jumping with trampoline. So, by the end of the week all he had to say was 'jumpoline' and we knew.

Charlie had his glory moment after we filled the pool in the backyard and got to splash the girls. The more he splashed, the more they giggled & screamed. A very happy 20 minutes!!!!

We rode several rides at the Mall of America - this one was Thomas the Train, which he threw a complete fit once I tried to literally peel him off of at the end. Driving home I asked him which ride he loved & he said the School Bus - which was funny because that was the ride he literally spent tucked into my bellie shaking from pure terror!

Filling the pool (or watering the grass) was a favorite.

His first ever banana popsicle brought many smiles!

The upside-down show with Mommy NEVER disappoints!

Oh Minnesota. How you treated my little Charlie Bear right! A giant thanks to Aunt Red & Uncle Dave for introducing him to so many new and exciting things. We can't wait to return next summer.

4th of July - Lake Tahoe

2010-07-04T21:01:00.000-07:00

We spent the week up in Tahoe, enjoying the summer warmth & a little time together as a family!

At Kings Beach...

Pool time...

Of course all Tahoe journeys are not complete without a ride on the Gondola. We ventured up the mountain, picnicked & hiked around.

Air time at the condo...

We took a sunset cruise on Lake Tahoe - here is Charlie enjoying a lollipop.

Memorial Day Weekend 2010

2010-06-01T10:14:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend exploring our own backyard and finding little adventures here & there in the city. First thing Saturday morning I pulled out our tent & set up camp in the backyard. All the blankets, dolls, trucks...and random toys deemed 'needed' while camping by the kids found their way in the tent.

Lola & Vivi spent the morning with us on our camping adventure. Soon after the girls had finished up their tea party Charlie moved in. Quiet happily he sat gobbling up the homemade lemon poppy muffins (or rather licking off all the frosting).

While Maggie headed out to a movie with her buddies, Charlie & I spent some time hanging out in the tent. A highlight from the weekend as we both laid there looking up at the sky talking about airplanes, the stars & finding the humor in just about everything.

Sunday was a beautiful day so we headed to Crissy Field with a bunch of people to soak up the sun and WARMTH! Charlie of course stuck to what he loves about the beach, eating sand. Although, he is a little less obvious these days. Instead of handfuls he just isn't bothered when his watermelon piece drops in the sand - perhaps on purpose? No need to wipe it off!

A quick peek through his sun glasses. Not a fan of wearing them, but conceptually thinks they are super cool!

Trip to Fond Du Lac.

2010-04-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Fond du Lac this year got pushed up to the Spring upon the news of Grandma Evelyn Leu (Grandma Grandma) passing away at 98 years of age. One of my favorite Charlie moments with Grandma was on our last visit when they snuggled up in her bed and both of them talked and talked away. She was such a loving and beautiful woman who will be greatly missed.

Charlie snoozing during the funeral....

Grandpa giving Charlie a ride on the lawnmower. At first he was elated to jump on...but soon after they started cutting the grass he got a bit freaked out & had to get off quickly. He LOVES to look at the big trucks, but isn't so sure about riding them yet.

Charlie met his cousin Eloisa - sweet sweet Ellie. She is 3 months old and adorable!!

Charlie a bit fixated on the lawnmower, still. Watching Grandpa finish mowing the lawn...

Since Charlie's 2nd birthday was days after our visit we had a family gathering to celebrate. Charlie adored his cake that Grandma Leu made!!!

Charlie's 2nd Birthday

2010-04-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday sweet sweet Charlie. May the next year ahead be full of new adventures, nonstop happiness, and of course - lots and lots of trucks in every size!!! I love you like crazy Charles Thomas Leu - you mean the world to me.

A birthday breakfast...

Because of his obsession with trucks, we went with a Firetruck theme for his birthday party. Hosted at home, we had an old retired Firetruck swing by & take us on a few rides around Noe Valley.

I very proudly made his cake!

It was a giant success with everyone BUT Charlie.

Chloc-let.

2010-04-05T19:56:00.000-07:00

HAPPY EASTER!!! The Easter bunny dropped off a few things to our house, even a note!

Their Easter Baskets. Charlie got a book all about vehicles, a new rake to help Mommy in the backyard & a truck - of course.

On our way to the Easter Parade down in the Marina, Charlie ate a BLUE Chloc-let egg and LOVED every bit of it!

Walking around looking for easter eggs at the hunt & hanging out with sister Maggie.

First time drawing. A TRUCK coloring book from Grandma & Grandpa Leu!

OBSESSED with garbage.

2010-03-21T14:33:00.000-07:00

An understatement, actually. Monday morning his ears perk up at the faint sound of the garbage truck making it's way up the street...and he DASHES to the front window and won't move a muscle until they have finished their route & are completely out of sight. One of his favorite 'games' right now is to get you to give him bits of garbage so he can toss them for you. And I won't even get started on his love for wipes (pro-nounced YIPES)....and the need to flush every single last one of them.

And then the actual garbage cans. He has to make eye contact with you every time he points one out, just to ensure he knows and can confirm you saw it too. If the lid is swung open then we HAVE to stop & close it. Luckily there are 3 garbage cans per household so we are REALLY good at counting to three these days. Ahhhhhh. I love it. I so incredibly love it.

Our favorite part, how he pronounces garbage - BARGAGE.

In the last few days he has really amped up his chatter and is now speaking in 3-4 word sentences. It sprouted out of what seemed like no where. There is nothing like waking up to his little voice yelling, 'Mooommmmmmmy! I hungry.'

His 2nd haircut at a little place by our house. It took all of about 4 minutes.

Last night Charlie came in to say goodnight to Maggie. He gave her a kiss and then said 'I love you Maggie.' Joel & I were both taken back, and I of course totally teared up. He hasn't said I love You before...and to say it first to his sister....AMAZING! I will forever remember that moment. They both love each other so much. I love it.

10 Days in Tahoe

2010-02-15T22:02:00.000-08:00

We just returned from a 10 day vacation in Tahoe. Charlie was in HEAVEN. Day and night he watched the snow plows drive past the condo. 'Pow, pow, pow!' He would hear those plows coming from miles away and be all ready for when they arrived in sight. Those poor windows, by the end of our stay there wasn't much visibility past all the drool. We called housekeeping on our way out to make sure they gave the windows some extra winde love!

You can imagine what excitement the zambonie delivered too!

Chillin' by the fire.

Munching on dirty snow.

Riding up on the GON-GO-LA.

Can't wait for next year for Charlie to adventure on to skis.....

December 2009

2009-12-25T09:33:00.000-08:00

Holiday Cookie Party

2009-12-14T15:56:00.000-08:00

We hosted our 4th annual Holiday Cookie Party yesterday - 16 kids came over....they piled on the sprinkles, they shoveled in the frosting by the spoonful, and they ran around like crazy people til their highs wore off. That's when they quickly and not so gracefully exited! It was exactly how I pictured it, and lemme tell you - I LOVE every minute of it. It brings me back to growing up, and having so many wonderful traditions and holiday memories. I can't envision another holiday season without this cookie party. And Charlie had a BLAST. He started WELL before the party by helping himself to the cookies. He was all smiles & a bit giddy when the first guest arrived - and I am not sure that changed much til he twitched himself to sleep.

Morgan, Edward & Charlie

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-30T12:49:00.000-08:00

Our Thanksgiving weekend began with a 12 hour stomach virus from Charlie...nothing like showing up to your friends house with a child COVERED in his own vomit HOPING it was just car sickness. Nope. That was proven wrong when I was quiet literally thrown up on while eating my dinner. Sure enough, it was gone as quickly as it came... luckily.

We spent Thanksgiving at the Smith's House in Pacifica. It was peaceful, and full of kid laughter, and wonderful friends. And that morning we ventured down to the Potischman's for donuts & bouncey castle goodness.

And of course, as the Leu tradition stands, we make our way down to the local tree lot to pick out our tree Thanksgiving weekend (Joel picks it out every year). Charlie wore his super hero cape & flew around in search of the perfect tree...and in awwww over the CHAINSAW!!!!

Our tree...

Lots to be thankful for...

a Goldfish Halloween

2009-11-02T10:33:00.001-08:00

We went over to the Fishers for their annual Halloween party, and from there went trick-or-treating. My lil-goldfish was so into just walking up & down everyone's stairs and didn't quiet get that there was candy being given out. He did however LOVE discovering his tootsie pop sucker which lasted him the entire route and left him very sticky!

His first horseback ride...ALL BY HIMSELF!!! I took the kids down to Lemo's Farm in Half Moon Bay and induldged in train rides, pony rides, and all that pumpkin goodness.

First Official Hair Cut

2009-10-20T20:09:00.001-07:00

So much debate over the whole topic for me. Do I take him to my hair dresser? Do I just take him down to the kid's place in the neighborhood? How do I have it cut? I finally woke with 'today is the day' and schlepped down to the neighborhood kid spot...and it was literally done in 5 minutes. A teeny bit too short for me in the front, but he has super fine hair so not much forgiveness. I think I need to invest in some baby product.

Fascinated by the construction cone.

Loving his raisins & a little down time.

Walk!??!...no, he RUNS!

2009-10-09T21:13:00.000-07:00

In the last few weeks I have noticed that when we are out & about, Charlie RUNS. He doesn't stop to walk - he just takes off in a full on sprint.

He is verbally exploding. You say something and he repeats it immediately. His FAVORITE words right now are light, airplane, car, and more....of which most of it is in Spanish.

A few nights ago Maggie decided to pick out Charlie's pjs and found it perfectly acceptable for him to wear one of HERs. Charlie thought he looked fabulous, which I am sure was fueled by our sheer laughter over the whole thing. We both had a bad case of giggles over it the rest of the night, so of course I allowed him to sleep in them.

I pulled a book out called First 100 Machines and it left him giddy, concentrated & at times speechless. He spent a good 45 minutes flipping the pages and when he got to the cement truck there was squealing.

His first real piece of artwork. Joel called it a 'Chandelier.'

Trip to Fond du Lac

2009-09-17T17:28:00.000-07:00

We just spent a week in Fond Du Lac visiting the Leu family. Angie Leu is about 5 months pregnant, and we are super excited to meet the new cousin - boy or girl??!! Always a treat to get time with Grandpa and Grandma Leu, and Gramma Gramma who is 98 years old. Grandpa Leu took the kids on a tour to a job site, and I am pretty certain it left Charlie speechless and in utter HEAVEN!!!

I think his days in a highchair are numbered...

We ended the trip with a visit with the Pfeiffers in Madison. Here is Charlie making is debut appearance at the 'big' kid table!

at 16 Months...

2009-08-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

he is 30 lbs, wearing a size 8 shoe & fitting into 2T clothing. He is my godzilla - and a very sweet & gentle one at that!!!

Peek-a-boo (note truck in hand - ALWAYS)

At the Noe Farmer's Market, listening to music & sitting with Joel.

Eatting corn on the cob with 6 teeth...

Driving around.

First Cable Car Adventure

2009-08-10T15:55:00.001-07:00

A sunny Sunday afternoon in San Francisco on a maiden voyage mission, and lucky us - we got 2 rides...and I am not sure which he enjoyed more!!!

Charley, Vivi & Lola came along for the adventure.

Charleston 2009

2009-08-03T07:32:00.000-07:00

We just returned from our 6th annual Crowell family reunion at the beach, and this was year #2 for lil ole Charlie bear. Lots of play at the beach and running around with all his cousins!!!

It hasn't been until the last month or so that the 'truck gene' was turned on. It was as if one day he looked at a truck and it was instant love at first sight. He is now completely OBSESSED with them. So you can imagine the love for this Tonka truck. A little boy at the beach let him play with it. Sincerely, happiest lil man with that truck. Definitely see more Tonka entering our world!!!

All the cousins: Claire (8), Frederick (12), Olivia (10), Grace (6), Maggie (3), Charlie (1), Liam (5) & Haven (2).

Photo Shoot

2009-07-06T19:52:00.000-07:00

I had a little photo shoot with Charlie bear in our backyard last week with our friend Hilary, and she really captured his happy & content little self!!!

Camp Mather 09

2009-06-15T21:15:00.000-07:00

We decided to head to family camp this year...and to say Lil Charlie Bear LOVED it is a bit of an understatement! I mean he LOVED it. All he wants to do is be outside, so it was THE perfect place for him. He had a bit of freedom to wonder and seriously, he was in heaven.

One of my FAVORITE moments (I could never quiet get enough) was just stretching out my arms & calling his name and he would just come running & barrel into me with a big ole hug. Mom's boy....maaaaaybe!!! ;)

at Hetch Hetchy with his lady friends: Alex Fisher, Lola & Vivi Zeches, & Maria Lopez

On the stairs with Daddy...he has stair radar from a mile away these days.

A Giggle or 2

2009-05-18T21:43:00.001-07:00

In the last few weeks mista Charlie bear has started to display a bit more of his personality. We caught this video while taking a day trip down the coast. He just started laughing, out of nowhere. He has this infectious and contagious deep laugh...

He has started the 'hulk.' When he disagrees with something he freezes up & shakes all his muscles & turns bright red. It's really really funny. He does it when we drive into the garage (HATES the garage for some odd reason), and he also does it when you go outside without him. An outdoors lil dude in the making...

Charlie running around Golden Gate Park on a freezing Memorial Day weekend BBQ (photo by Stephan)...

Hit. Bite. Pinch. REPEAT.

2009-05-18T08:08:00.001-07:00

So a few new habits are emerging & a bit of personality is starting to shine through.

He has FOUR teeth popping in on top, so he has started to bite. And for some reason he tends to appear out of nowhere & go for the thighs! I tend to call in the troops, a.k.a. the pacifier.

Hitting - he likes to just bat at you & wait for the reaction. It's purely out of discovery, and sometimes is pretty funny - but wait, that's endorsing. Hard when they are just such little nuggets learning & most anything they do is still so darn cute!!!!

Oh, and the pinching. Yikes! And the banging, that is still his favorite thing. Just opening & closing doors & cabinets to make noise. I have SUCH A BOY on my hands. And a beautiful one at that....

Photos from this past weekend at Bay-to-Breakers.

Grandma Leu made him this ADORABLE jumper.

Happy Birthday Charlie Bear!

2009-04-29T13:08:00.000-07:00

I am a bit speechless and all emotional about my little man turning ONE. It's HUGE in his life, and has big meaning in my own too. I think back to a year ago and my delivery & I just smile. It was one of the best days of my life...and since then every day has been richer because he is in it. I have greater meaning, I am a better person, and he is one of the brightest lights in my life.

Just last night he was waddling around playing peek-a-boo with Maggie, laughing up a storm. It was one of the first times I have really seen those 2 interact with each other, I mean REALLY interact and play WITH each other. It filled me with such happiness and love for life. May I never forget that moment....and all those yet to come.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Charles Thomas Leu.

Like Father, Like Son

2009-04-17T07:46:00.000-07:00

Joel & Aunt Angie around 1 years old. I'm thinking Charlie looks a bit like his daddy!!!! :)

Easter

2009-04-17T07:33:00.000-07:00

His easter basket was full of wooden blocks, an adorable pull toy that is a hopping bunny & a delicious SHEEP cookie from Miette.

I made HOMEMADE pesto. A favorite around the Leu house...and clearly Charlie Bear is loving it too!

And he is off....

2009-03-31T14:50:00.000-07:00

and WALKING, at 11 months!!!! it happened so fast.

Grass!

Water play with princess Maggie on a sunny Saturday morning.

Giggling at the Discovery Museum.

Relaxing with Daddy while waiting for lunch at Cavallo Point in Marin.

A silent moment with Jasper.

A happy moment with mommy.

Open. Close. Open. Close.

2009-03-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

All day long. LOVES those doors. He will quickly crawl to one, stand up & just sit there opening, closing for a decent amount of time. And then. He quickly crawls to the next door & hits repeat. Sometimes he chats while he is working on it, but most the time he is really serious & concentrated on the task at hand. Ahhhhhhh, simplicity!

A moment with Dada.

I just came across this picture, taken back when he was 6 months old. It gave me good pause!

Those eyes!!!

Charlie & Charley.

On the verge...

2009-03-10T19:20:00.000-07:00

of WALKING!!! It's been just shy of a month since he started crawling & already he is pulling to standing on his own. He LOVES to look to the wall for assistance too, which is always good for some giggles. His mind is so there, but his body is still a bit chubby & awkward. It's just a matter of weeks before he stands up & walks.

He has also MASTERED eating solid food...and we haven't come across anything he won't gobble up. LOVES turkey, tofu, and veggie bootie. He is a little eating machine!!!

I was just in New York on a buying trip for 2 days, and it will always amaze me how much change can happen in such a short amount of time with these little guys.

his first pair of shoes!!!

one night charlie bear was just not wanting to go to bed. he was laying in his crib chatting away. so around 10pm we finally took out & surrendered. he took this little flower toy & just started rambling. it was priceless!

Whistlin' Charlie

2009-02-16T19:02:00.001-08:00

In the tub, blowing on the dolphin toy...whistling away.

Just being me with my newly sprouted tuff of hair...

At the aquarium with his daddy, watching the fish swim on by...

Goofing around with daddy before tub time...

Blah, Blah, Blah....

2009-01-27T14:38:00.001-08:00

Excuse me, have you met my little man?

Adorable, right?

His hair is growing in dirty blonde, his 2nd tooth is about to pop, and he likes to chat your ear off. He LOVES the down-ward-dog yoga pose. I swear one of these days he is just going to stand up & start walking. He continues to improve his crawl, although still not entirely on the move. He does have the occasional slip & bump on his little noggin...and that's where I swoop in, happily!!!

Joel took him on his first carousel ride at the San Francisco zoo this past weekend (while I was on a girls weekend). I hear he was THE most animated Joel had ever seen him, almost like a wound up little toy. Babbling, kicking, flapping his arms. I'd say we might have to venture out for another ride soon!

9 months and growing strong & fast.

First Word

2009-01-10T07:11:00.000-08:00

All of a sudden he speaks! And it's adorable with his toothless grin & his tongue rolling around trying to make sounds. I think we can officially call his first word Daddy - 'Dada'.

But wait...his first tooth too.

Yikes! It's all happening too fast.

New Year's 2009

2009-01-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

I took the kids up to Tahoe just after Christmas for a week, with Joel joining us at the end. It was a BEAUTIFUL and decadent week filled with bonfires, sledding, fireworks, little buddies to play with, gondola rides....so much kid fun up at Northstar with Team Zeches!!! And Charlie started sleeping through the nite up there. GLORY DAYS!!!!

Charlie & Paul

All the kids out sledding: Lucy, Vivi, Lola, Maggie, Charlie & Paul

Joel & I goofing around on the slopes...

Christmas 2008

2008-12-25T12:21:00.001-08:00

We spent Charlie's first Christmas with my parents, Nana & Papa. They came out from Naples, Florida for the week. Little Charlie Bear was in heaven with all the love & attention.

Charlie Bear giggling & Joel showing off his new Bear socks.

Santa visited...

Holiday Adventures

2008-12-15T14:01:00.001-08:00

Shopping with Maggie.

Enjoying the wine...

...the food

and play time.

Charlie & Ivania surviving their first 'Leu Holiday Cookie Party!'

Sitting on Santa's lap

Lunchtime with Maya

A game of peek-a-boo with Maya & Charlie.

Whew...all this fun makes for one tired Charlie Bear.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-27T15:15:00.001-08:00

We spent the day with the Potischman family. I think Charlie enjoyed his feast(s)!!!

Charlie & Noah hanging out...

A day in Santa Cruz

2008-11-24T19:38:00.000-08:00

We took a last minute drive down the coast today (oh how I love living here!). Such an incredible sunny day. A few photos from our ventures...

Charlie is tipping the scale at 22lbs, just shy of 7 months. He is a SOLID kid! He is just about mastered sitting up and is starting to babble different sounds. He is my little chicken pot pie!!!

Sniffin' the wine at Bonny Doon tasting room...

And tastin' the crackers...

Enjoying his drive along the coast...

While his sister enjoys her...

Goodnight Charlie Bear.

Family Photos

2008-11-14T19:32:00.001-08:00

We just had our family photos taken for our holiday card at Dolores Park. Charlie's ice blue eyes are so just beyond amazing...I could stare at these pictures all day!!!

Maggie is just over 3 years old & Charlie is just 6 months.

Barack Obama for President

2008-11-04T21:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight was monumental, a moment in history that will never be forgotten. The United States of America just voted Barack Obama, the first African American, as our next President. We the people, for the people....a glimpse of hope for the future.

And what was our little Charlie bear up to on this historical day in the making? Eating apple & blueberry/ rice cereal yumminess and giggling with his sister in his crib before nodding off to sleep for the nite. In all his glory at only 6 months old!'

Bath time with Maggie

2008-10-19T14:21:00.000-07:00

Joel came home from work the other day & Charlie was perched in his exersaucer. As soon as Charlie saw Joel he lit up like a Christmas tree & threw his arms up to be picked up!!!! It was the first time he has ever communicated a pick me up.

A different perspective....

Hanging out in his jumper.

First time in the bath tub with Maggie. I am not really sure who had more fun actually. Maggie was in shock that she really could get in there with him, and Charlie just kept smiling everytime he looked at her. I could have kept them in there all nite if it weren't for pruned fingers & chilly water.

Charlie is way into studying his hands these days...

Reunited!!!

2008-10-09T20:49:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a buying trip in NYC and a little romantic get away weekend with Joel...and the minute I walked in the door I wanted to run into Charlie's room and give him tons of kisses & hugs (of course I had to refrain cuz it was late at nite). It was the longest I had been separated from him - FIVE days!!! And of course he looks and feels different. His face is changing and he seems taller & a bit more thinned out. Not to mention he is gaining ground on sitting up and tummy time.

I love him. I love him. I love him!!!! He is the happiest, most squeezable little Charlie Leu EVER!!!! May life always be sweet to my little man.

First visit to Fond du Lac

2008-09-27T08:35:00.001-07:00

Charlie made his maiden voyage to Fond du Lac to meet his Great Grandma Leu (Eveyln), Grandma & Grandpa Leu (Carol & Tom), his Aunt Angie & Uncle Tony...and all the entire extend Leu crew. He was sweet as pie the entire week & dazzled us all week long. It was especially sweet to watch Great Grandma Leu, who is 97 years old, just melt when she was with him. He had a way of brightening everyone's day with those brilliant blue eyes & that huge constant happy smile!

The Leu Crew

Story time with Great Grandma Leu & Daddy

Visiting a farm with Grandma Leu, Great Grandma Leu & Aunt Angie

Laughing with Mom

Hanging with my sister

Blow'n Bubbles

2008-09-05T15:56:00.000-07:00

Charlie started his latest trick, he sticks his tiny little tongue out & blows bubbles & then giggles with delight. He is just pleased as punch when he starts on his ramble of bubble blow'n. ADORABLE! Actually, he can kinda do it on command...although it doesn't take much for this one to light up. He has much to smile about.

First Day of Share Care

2008-09-02T15:14:00.001-07:00

Charlie started his first day with Ivania and Maya today. It was a bit heart breaking to drop him off this morning...it was that feeling of nooooooooooooo, where did the last 4 months go! Yet the stores need my full attention, and it's time I return to work. BUT, the saving grace is Ivania. She is a dream. I think they are going to forge a beautiful friendship, and Maya (who is 2 months older than Charlie & just a doll) might just be his first crush! :)

First BUZZ cut!

2008-08-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

It's kinda funny how I have REFUSED to cut Maggie's hair over the past 3 years (minus a super quick trim a year ago or so - we are talking maybe 5 quick snips)...and have already tackled Charlie's first hair cut. His hair has been falling out & has taken on a pretty funky pattern...so I decided 'lets just start over.' So while visiting the Katzin's for dinner last nite Edward took on the task of shaving his head.

I woke up this morning & after closer examination realized it was a bit of a patch job (to Edward's FULL credit...clippers on a newborn's head is a bit nerve racking!!! and it not being a full time profession!!!). It's almost a late nite frat party prank in style. I think we may need to revisit the Katzin's BarberShop for a little clean up...

My TATOR TOT!

2008-08-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

He is my little tator tot...my spud who just LOVES to slurp up his bottle every two hours. He continues to sleep like a champ in order to keep up with his rapid growth. I swear I see him growing daily. He is a happy & healthy BIG boy. And I LOVE HIM TO PIECES!!!!

He started arching his back while lying down, and is beginning to move around more. He is discovering his hands & realizing their potential. Swatting at toys, chewing on his fingers & blowing bubbles are all new fascinations as of this week.

Isn't he just a nugget of chewable goodness!!!

Has someone seen my neck??!

Isle of Palms, 2008

2008-07-27T07:27:00.001-07:00

We just spent the last week at 'the beach' with my family (our annual Crowell - Isle of Palms reunion). Charlie charmed his way into the arms of all his Aunts & Uncles...and snoozed his way through the week in the warm, humid beach air. I am pretty certain we came home with a new little boy. He found his hands this past week; he is starting to swat at toys & is finding comfort with sucking his thumb. I think the swaddle is becoming part of the past too as he begins the journey to his self discovery. And his smiles are big & bright! His whole face lights up & his eyes sparkle in their ocean blue brilliance. And of course he grew...I am certain he is between 16 and 17 lbs. That's my boy!

Papa Charles with lil Charlie...

Check out my belt, yo!!!

Hanging out with Cousin Olivia Crowell

Asleep in Aunt Red's arms...

Baptism

2008-07-09T22:00:00.000-07:00

Charlie took his first trip this past 4th of July weekend up to Lake Tahoe, where he was baptized at St. Nicholas Episcopal Church (where we were married in 2002 & Maggie was baptized in 2006). He wore the christening gown that has been pasted down on my side of the family for decades; I wore it, his cousins did, his grandfather, and his great grandfather. It was a beautiful ceremony. Unfortunately Joel & Maggie weren't able to join because Maggie woke up in the middle of the night with a 12 hour bug...but the Katzin's made it which was uber special with Chris being on the brink of having a baby!

Charlie's Godparents - Chris & Edward Katzin

Charlie spent the weekend smiling at everyone and winning our hearts over in all his delightful, bright smiling moments.

Nanna Visits

2008-06-29T21:38:00.000-07:00

Nanna just visited for a week & it was WONDERFUL having her here with us. She held Charlie and held Charlie, and then fed him...and then held him. He LOVED it!!! and so did we.

Where did Nanna go...we miss her something crazy!!!!

Smiling & Cooing

2008-06-11T21:44:00.000-07:00

Charlie just started to smile and it's delightful every time you get that quick half smirk or that slight coo. You work so hard to interact with him for it & then boom...there it is. So satisfying. And when he isn't working on lighting up that sweet perfect face of his, he tends to be snoozing away....

And then occasionally charming us all...

1 Month Old

2008-05-29T15:31:00.001-07:00

At one month this is what we know about each other:

Charlie...
insists on sleep with one hand up on his head
hulks the swaddle
eats ALL THE TIME and is now weighing in at 10 lbs (mind you he was just 7 lbs coming home from the hospital!)
opens just one eye - we call it the popeye
they all say you look like a Crowell

Mom...
cannot stop marveling at your presence
fights for every chance to snuggle up with her 'tree frog'
loves to listen to daddy chat up a storm with you about how grand you will be in your life
enjoys kissing your plump cheeks & squeezing those little toes

Linebacker???

2008-05-20T14:35:00.000-07:00

Ok, so Maggie has always been a little bird when it comes to eatting. It's not uncommon for 3 bites to fill her up. So here comes Charlie right...a NON STOP EATTER! At three weeks he is weighing in at 10 lbs, and there is no stopping his constant desire for MORE. And I still cannot believe how much he can pack in that tiny (or not so tiny anymore) bellie. His skinny little feet and tiny legs are filling out fast...and those cheeks. DELICIOUS-NESS!!!!

Touch Down!!!

Quiet Moments

2008-05-15T16:14:00.000-07:00

I looked at Charlie today & realized he is bigger...

I have been hugging all the quiet moments, all his discovery noises, and his tiny little self...only to have that feeling that in a blink it's slowly going to disappear. So I embrace it with all my might and enjoy every growing moment. I think we could spend hours just staring at eachother!

My Tree Frog

2008-05-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

Charlie - my tree frog. With those adorable folded up legs & clinging self, he spends hours just snoozing on my chest. He is the most precious tree frog EVER...and occassionally a lap cat too. :)

I had a moment today when I looked over at Maggie's doll cradle & just had to take this picture. He is literally the size of a doll...and one day I will be able to show him just how small he was...and get a good giggle out of it too!

Welcome Charles Thomas Leu!!!

2008-05-07T14:31:00.000-07:00

It all happened on Tuesday, April 29th - 2008...

I rolled out of bed that morning to discover that my water broke. In complete denial I made myself a latte & jumped in the shower while Joel got Maggie off to school. As I was driving to the hospital I think reality started to sink in that this was it...and I soon found that yes, today was the day to meet my son.

A day of quiet labor (I had to be induced & quickly plugged into an epidural - and if you don't count the constant pace from nervous daddy Joel), I was ready to go at 6:25pm. With Doctor Fang, Nurse Beth, and anxious Daddy Joel - we were all ready to go. In less than 5 minutes and at 6:30pm on the nose, Charles Thomas Leu came into this world. 7.7 lbs and 21 inches long, we had ourselves a very healthy & handsome gentleman!!!

The Leu Crew Grows to 4

2008-04-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

It was late summer 2007 when we realized baby Leu #2 was on his way. Thrilled with the news, and soon to discover it was a BOY!!!! we quickly agreed he should be named after both his grandfathers. My father, Charles Crowell, and Joel's father, Thomas Leu. So soon to arrive is Charles Thomas Leu.

We held back on telling Maggie I was pregnant until we could tell her whether she was going to have a brother or sister. One morning just before our big ultrasound to find out the sex, Maggie looked up at me in the bathroom & pointed to my bellie. She, in her adoring affection, asked if there was a baby in my bellie. Her reaction was simple, she gave my bellie a big hug & a kiss. It was beautiful...and ever since has been very excited to meet her baby brother!

This pregnancy has been a bit of a breeze, once I got beyond 16 weeks. As I approach delivery I spend many quiet moments at nite just watching him ripple across my bellie...and think about all the ways he is going to rock our world.

And now we just wait...will he be a Mother's Day baby - May 11th? or maybe May Day baby. Although there is always April too - which would take us all by a bit of surprise. His actual due date is May 10th, 2008.

Stay tuned....

Days before delivery - goofing around with Maggie