Joy to the Whirled

If there was even a shred of denial left about Cece still being a little baby it went down the drain after bath time yesterday. I picked Cece up out of the tub, put her on the floor, wrapped her in a towel and she ran away. She ran away! I felt dizzy for a minute. But I am getting used to that feeling with picking up toys three times a day, darting towards her when she goes headfirst into the table corners, and having momentary panic attacks when she's out of sight and silent for 30 seconds. I know these stages will be gone in a whirlwind and I wouldn't trade this time for anything ...except maybe that toy sucker thing the Grinch has.

Christmas Treedition

One of the best parts of having a family is creating and honoring traditions. Just like last year when Cece was all of 6 weeks old, we headed over to Vashon Island for our Christmas tree.

Daddy and Cece celebrate finding the perfect tree by mugging for the camera.

Mommy and Daddy had too much to drink at lunch so Cece had to drive home. Kidding!

More goofing off in the car on the ferry.

Cece conks out and likely has visions of sugar plums dancing in her beautiful head.

We hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season so far!

p.s. this post is dedicated to Lori Pollard who sends me subtle and gentle reminders to keep up on the blog. If you know Lori, you are laughing right now. Miss you, girl!

Little Feat

Here is Cece picking up the pace of her stepping a few days ago. Now she can make it from the living room to the dining room with no stopping or furniture cruising. Yes, I know we are days away from full on running! Enjoy the video and note at the end when my singing and cheering evidently hurts Cece's ears.

She and Her Shadow

A few weeks back the sun actually paid us a visit and warmed up a Sunday afternoon. Off we went to the park for what turned out to be our last lounge in the grass of the season. As always, Cece could not get enough of Daddy ... and Mommy couldn't get enough pictures.

Love this one.

Daddy's girl, indeed!

The Icing on the Cake

First birthday celebrations are pretty special and this one was no exception. Cece enjoyed all the fun and festivities. But most of all, having out of town family visiting and being joined by our neighbors was truly the icing on the cake. How sweet it was!

Mommy and Daddy pause for a photo op while Cece wriggles her way closer to her first sugary experience.

Cece wonders why we are all singing while something is clearly on fire.

Cece didn't make a wish, but we did.

Cece takes little, ladylike bites of her big slice.

While the crowd wonders why Cece is not diving in, Mommy forks over a bigger bite.

Daddy takes over and shows Cece how its done.

Time for presents!

Cece enjoys part of her Hide and Squeak eggs toy while Alexann keeps an eye on her.

Godmother Serena helps Cece with her new butterfly.

Cece tells our neighbor Micki how much fun she is having.

Nana Kissi has a picture taken instead of taking pictures ... for once!

Cece's first and favorite babysitter, Cathie gets big giggles from the birthday girl.

While Kellan works on his second piece of cake, Jessica, Riley, Ryan and George smile for a Pierce family picture.

Serena, Clarisse and Alexann enjoying their visit. Thank you for flying here to be with us!

The party is almost over but Cece still has plenty to be joyful about.

Special thanks to Nana Kissi, Serena and Clarisse for all these photographs. And to Mom-mom Judy for making the trip from PA to be with us, too.

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY, CECELIA!

Looks Like We Made It

Today we are celebrating our 100th post and counting the days until Cece's 1st birthday. What better time to pat ourselves on the back? After all, we are very proud that we made it ... rather her! I know the miracle of life is not a new concept but we still can't believe we made a baby. Our darling collaboration is clearly equal parts Mommy and Daddy. But, who does Cece most resemble? Let's compare baby pictures:

Mommy was always a bit of a swinger.

Daddy working the phone - classic!

Cece is checking out a picture of Mommy and Daddy. She's obviously not certain either!

What do you think?!

Happy 100th Post!

Two's Company

What's better than having a visitor? Having TWO visitors!

Last weekend was pretty special. First, we enjoyed the company of Auntie Sheree who was in town for a meeting. Although our visit was short, Auntie Sheree packed a ton of love into every moment.

Cece helps Auntie Sheree with her e-mail and English Muffin.

But wait! There's more!

We also got to see Uncle Christopher, one of Daddy's best buds who was in town to visit us and his Aunt who lives here, too. After back to back rounds of golf with Daddy, Uncle Christopher miraculously had enough energy left to squeeze Cece and flash us his million dollar smile before taking off again.

Thanks for coming, Aunt Sheree and Uncle Chris. We love you!

The Boys of Bummer

Our baseball season came to a close on Sunday as we watched our boys get swept in the playoffs. Daddy is teaching Cece that being a fan means win or lose we stand by our team. Oh, and that a little bottle of your favorite potion always help ease the disappointment. Goodnight, Green Monster! See you in the Spring!

Dada Dada Dada!

Here's a quiz. When does Cece say "Dada"?

a. First thing in the morning.

b. About every 20 minutes.

c. When I try to get her to say "mama".

d. All of the frickin' above.

You guessed it. All day long Cece sings "Dada! Dada! Dada!". When Daddy comes home? She practically convulses with joy. Sure, I get a little taste of that myself once in a while and it is the most whole-body-melting experience ever. But I have to say nothing lights Cece up like her Daddy.

Believe me, kid. I know exactly how you feel.

Photo Sharing

Click here for a link to a great web album ...

compliments of our friend, Corinne who has captured great memories of Katie, Cece and our other baby friends playing over the last year. Wonderful photography! Thanks, Corinne!

Friends make us happy!

Ham and Cheese

Cece is ready for her close-up! All it takes is the mere sight of the camera and she is ready to ham it up. Want some cheese with that ham? No problem! Enjoy!

A Welcome Angel

Who's that on our couch?

That's Angel, Auntie Lisa's dear West Highland Terrier. She's 16 pounds of sweet, sassy love and the newest member of our family. Angel made the trip back from PA with us and didn't seem to mind her cramped quarters in a carry-on at our feet. Once home, adjusting to one another came easily. She's a perfectly sized playmate for Cece. Even Boomer has accepted Angel although he misses his Honey greatly ... just like Angel misses Auntie Lisa. There are places in our hearts that can never be filled again after a loss. Yet somehow there always seems to be room for someone new.

Welcome, Angel.

A Hero Among Heroes

A trip to Pennsylvania would not have been complete without visiting Fort Indiantown Gap. This town with a long name is home to a beautiful national cemetery which is my father's final resting place. Cece was among many great heroes that day including her grandfather. Many thanks to Uncle Kenn for hosting our visit and ensuring such a fitting, final honor for Dad.

One More Goodbye

Honey, our beloved Golden Retriever fell ill last week and could not be saved. She was such an important part of our family and will be greatly missed.

August 1997 - the day I got Honey.

Sitting on a rock bridge over a creek at her favorite park in Framingham, MA.

Honey has probably already found the perfect cloud for upside down sleeping.

Sweet dreams, momma's girl.

Cece Meets Jake and Ben

With our few remaining days in PA we made our way out to Carlisle to see my BFF Teri's boys Jake and Ben. We all had a blast and Cece loved them so much! Although our dinner and visit went by quickly, the boys made sure we filled up on much needed love and laughter.

All hands on Cece!

Ben and Jake making Cece (and me!) laugh.

Cheeeeeese!

Cece's first ever Wet Willie.

The Aspin Family ... nice one Ben!

Jake and Ben, we love you sooooo much always and forever!

We Love You, Auntie

We said goodbye to Auntie Lisa yesterday as she wished with a beautiful, private remembrance.

While the events of the past week have been indescribably sad and difficult, Cece has provided everyone with constant joy. In Lisa's waning hours the sound of Cece's voice and laughter brought on a final, peaceful smile.

Our love and gratitude to all our friends and family who have provided love and support.

We love you Auntie Lisa.