Thursday, June 10, 2010

Emily's Birthday

Since Emily's birthday was on a Tuesday this year, and we both had to work. We decided to celebrate the following Saturday. Emily wanted to have a day to spend as a family, so we packed up and got in the car for a day trip to Portland. Fortunately, the VERY wet spring we have been having this year took a break for a day and we enjoyed absolutely beautiful weather all day long!

We started by going to the Portland Farmer's Market in the park near PSU. There we found some really good pizza and enjoyed some live music (strange techno "geek music", but live music nonetheless). Daniel has been learning to walk over the last 3 weeks or so, and he took full advantage of his new ability all day long. He has always been very aware of his surroundings, and it was fun to watch his curiosity at all the activity that was going on around him.


After the farmer's market and lunch, we headed down to the Portland Saturday Market between Burnside and the waterfront. Although we didn't buy any crafts, we always have fun walking around looking at all the various things people make and sell. Since the weather was nice, and it was the first weekend of the Rose Festival, the waterfront was packed and we, like so many others couldn't resist splashing around in the fountain a little. We also got to see the float that were preparing for the Starlight Parade on the side streets.
Finally, we headed to the Chinese Garden just a few blocks away in China Town. We had never been, but had heard good things about it. The garden was beautiful and we thoroughly enjoyed just relaxing in what feels like an oasis in the middle of a crowded city. I think Daniel made some pretty huge progress in his walking ability while we were there, and when it was time to go, he didn't want to be picked up even. He just wanted to keep walking and exploring on his own! I think we will have a very strong-willed, independent child soon.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hello - We so enjoy seeing all of you. Glad you had birthday fun, Emily!! Pictures of Daniel make me want to hug him in person!!
Love & hugs, Gram BL Sargent

Bethany said...

Looks like a great, fun day! Happy birthday!

SuziGalvin said...

I LOVE the pictures! Keep 'em coming! Glad you got to have such a great day as a family!