...Rotates.

Peru's and my adventures have gotten a lot more interesting lately. Since she began walking a little over a month ago now we have dragged ourselves through drugstores, lingered in libraries, paraded in parks, and most recently zig-zagged through the zoo.

She's now upping the ante by incorporating stunts and tricks into her new-found ability. Turning circles, running in place, bending over to look at the world upside down through her legs (that's my favorite, which I have actually only caught her doing once). An orange block, an owl sock, or piece of almond roca has become the proverbial carrot that she tempts you with then quickly yanks away, mischievously grinning or giggling and dashing the other direction. What a tease, I tell you!

Well, despite spending much more time running after her, Peru has just upped the fun factor by like 500 points in my book. I love walking hand in hand with her, when she'll let me. And, I can't help but laugh that she runs when I call her at the top of the stairs for a "ride down". Most of all, I'm thrilled that she's finding her independence, even if it means cleaning up the trails of toys, pans, and magazines she tosses behind.

...Is tickled to see her Uncle.

Uncle Dave paid us another visit late this past week. He arrived Thursday right as Peru was fighting her afternoon nap. Poor Dave... he got a whiny, tear-filled hello but by nightfall, all was well again.

That afternoon, the three of us took a drive over to Third Place Books where some re-bonding took place. Dave ordered a BLT sandwich and cup of soup, promptly offering a cooled-off spoonful to Peru -- refused! But with some coaxing, pretty soon she was eating out of his hand like a little bird. I suppose the quickest way to Peru's heart is through her stomach. On the way home we made a pit stop at The Party Store to pick up supplies for her birthday party coming up at the end of the month. (Ssshhh!) I hope she didn't catch on...

Next morning, Dave treated us to flapjacks at The Original Pancake House in Ballard followed by a walk through the Pike Place Farmers Market. Peru continues to be a good diner, especially when she gets to participate by nibbling on everyone's vittles and taking gulps of water out of a grown up glass. Of course, most of the time she gurgles and chokes on each big sip but always asks for MORE, giggling or smiling in between each one. She really just wants to be a part of the crowd, I think.

Before he left, I insisted Dave leave us with a few pictures that Peru could take a gander at periodically in his absence. Thanks for humoring us, Uncle Dave!

...Gives PB&J four fingers.

We're eating out of jars less and less these days. I've given a try to those beef and spinach or mango risotto canned concoctions and trust me -- just 'cause they're organic does not mean they're tasty.

Anyway, I'm rummaging up healthy snacks and meals based on what Sean and I eat. Or, just whatever is in the fridge. And so far, I haven't run into a whole lot that Peru won't eat. So, this afternoon for lunch we gave PB&J a try. A no-brainer. I mean, what kid doesn't like peanut butter with jelly!?