Awww.... he's so cute!

The National Zoo's baby panda, Tai Shan (tie SHON) -- which means "peaceful mountain" in Chinese -- took his first steps today.


He was born on August 2, weighing in at less than 2 pounds. Since then, he has grown to over 15lbs, and has more than doubled in length. The public isn't allowed to see him yet, but he's supposed to have his "debut" in December. In the meantime, some local stores are collecting "pennies for pandas" by offering special items for sale - like the chocolate-dipped macaroons (black and white, get it?) that Whole Foods will sell after Thanksgiving! yummmmm.... I can't wait to "meet" him. :)

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