Emma is One

Camping in San Diego

Finding Her Voice

Emma has been growing by leaps and bounds this past month!  I don't even know where to begin.  Let's just say that she is moving, talking, standing and on her way to walking.  She is the healthiest eater; I have yet to see her turn her nose up at something I put on her tray!    This is a very fun post!  Emma has been so vocal and loves to gives kisses... to pictures in books, to Kona, to her stuffed animals, and especially loved ones!  She has discovered her newest "friend" in the mirror.  What fun!

Grassroots Politics

The Layton family attended their first political caucus this weekend. Emma was voting for a Change.  It was an amazing day!  First off I must say that the Democratic caucus is chaotic, but we were glad to be a part of it.  We learned that if our district, basically our neighborhood, did not have someone to represent it, then our six local delegates would not be counted... thus, Dan volunteered (was appointed by our neighbors) to "chair"/coordinate our district meeting.  In the process, he became a delegate-- woo-hoo!  We felt honored as Christine Gregoire, Washington's governor, graced our humble gathering, knowing that hundreds of other caucuses were also taking place at that moment.  We were amazed to see how much money the Clinton campaign/Democratic Party has put into advertising-- Hillary posters covered almost every square inch of the school we were in!!!  Her people politely wanted to sticker everyone who walked into the building!  We wondered where all of Obama's people were, as his stickers and posters were more scarce.  Occasionally, someone would wave one of the few Obama posters and the crowd would cheer, whoop and hollar (making it difficult for Emma to nap:)!  And, as you have seen, the results are in and he didn't need all the paper and sticker advertising!  Washington voiced their desire for change loud and clear!

First Christmas

As you can see we are running about a month behind schedule! I'm not even sure there is a schedule these days, I just keep putting one foot in front of the other (Emma is trying to put one knee in front of the other!).   God has been reminding us to be thankful and we are so grateful for this long awaited season of "Emma."  She is more vocal every day and has so many different giggles... a constant delight.  Lately my little delight has been sleeping until 5:30, cuddling with Mama, then back to sleep for an hour or two. I could get used to this... but I won't!  The video with Kona is impossible to watch just once, so have fun!



Two days before Christmas we had Emma baptized in the presence of family and friends at Bethany Presbyterian Church. Her very special dress was hand made by her grandma Carolyn.

Dad and Grandpa Dave had a blast trying to "capture the moment" of baptism.  For those of us that were there, it was unforgettable. 










Colorful toys and new friends found their way under the tree for Emma Tjelle's first Christmas.  Auntie Britta gave her the favored toy; the green "sock puppy."

Sharing

Our "girls" are learning to share attention and toys.  Kona has already destroyed a few pieces of puzzle, socks, soothies and a few other things to let us know she doesn't like sharing the attention.  However, she doesn't seem to mind sharing her own chew toy with her little sis!   She must remember how hard teething can be!