Harriet’s Silver Cup

Charlotte received her silver cup from Aunt Harriet in Toronto today. Harriet is originally a New Yorker which explains why the cup is from Tiffany & Co, not Canada’s beloved Birks. We love New York and we love Harriet! I wonder if I can use this cup for a morning espresso?

Vancouver Aquarium

Wasn’t planning on taking Charlotte here quite so soon, but the Olympic road closures squeezed us toward Stanley Park while en route to Spanish Banks. Charlotte was completely mesmerized by all the fish, bubbles and colours on display. We bought a family pass for the year and Mom will be back earlier in the week when it’s not so busy. They seem to have a strong focus on conservation and education and we felt good that the Orca program is no longer. The Ocean Wise fish program was in effect at the outdoor cafe and they’re using all sorts of biodegradable containers complete with composting and recycling stations. A gift shop makeover might be in order however, check the Beluga shot glasses, they don’t really fit the educational/sustainable vibe! I seem to remember the gift shop being all glass, looks like the glass walls have been replaced with wood panels (probably in the 80s!) There must be some old photos of the aquarium, might have to check the library.

MOA

We took Charlotte up to the newly updated Museum of Anthropology today. Wasn’t sure what to expect and always get nervous when significant architecture gets messed with but the addition seems to at least respect the original design and materials. There’s a new gallery space and a somewhat generic cafe and gift shop along with a new brand identity. Charlotte was interested in the floating white boats installation, part of the Border Zones exhibit. I don’t think Charlotte was too keen on the the new identity or the building additions as she began to cry. We took her outside to enjoy the building from the front but she didn’t like that either (she’s a design purist). It was still great to see so many people enjoying Erickson’s masterpiece along with everything else that was happening inside.

Expressionism

We were having a fun time on the sofa until things turned sour. It’s amazing what a little gas can do to a girl. One burp after this shoot and she was back to being lovely. It’s amazing to witness the intention of expression as she approaches one month old.

First stroller session…

Jody seized a break in the weather to take Charlotte out for her first stroller cruise in the neighborhood. She cried upon being loaded in but then absolutely loved the ride. She was super alert and took it all in—lots to look at around the park despite all the leaves being on the ground.