Lucy's First Birthday Party

Well, I'm a little behind on this post, but better late than never, right?  Here are some highlights from Lucy's first birthday party in June.

We reserved a couple of picnic tables in Golden Gate Park next to the Koret Children's Quarter and carousel. While San Francisco's weather can be hit-or-miss in June (especially in that neighborhood), we enjoyed a beautiful, sunny day that was free from fog and drizzle.

In perfect accordance with Murphy's Law, Lucy skipped her morning nap and was exhausted by the time we arrived at the park.  So she spent the first half of the party asleep in the Ergobaby...

... which gave me some time to say hello and catch up with our guests.

Cousins Henry, Alex, and Chris

Newlyweds Anthony and Allison

Cousins Ashley and Bri

Papa C with Leanna and Laura, all the way from Hawaii!

John, Toni, and adorable baby Rhodes

Lucy's daycare owner, Mirna, and her family

Dad!

Lucy and JJ

Chatting with Delaney

Like any party, the best part was cake time! At first Lucy wasn't sure what to do, but after some encouragement and demonstrating of proper cake-eating technique, she settled into the gig like a pro.

She also scored some great gifts.

Once home, she broke in her new toys and enjoyed a Smith's cookie from Bakersfield...

... while Dad and Uncle Frankie enjoyed some tequila.

All in all it was a wonderful, memorable day.  Thanks to everyone who joined us in celebrating this most excellent and amazing year!!!

Three of Lucy's Favorite Things

Right now, three of Lucy's favorite things are...

1. Walking (yes, she's walking!)

2. Kitty (unfortunately, Lucy is not one of kitty's favorite things)

3. Reading books (especially while sitting in a chair like a big girl)

Lucy's Directorial Debut

If you've ever wondered what it's like to be 13 months old, I think this pretty much sums it up.

Look Who's (Almost) Walking!

Lucy is this close to walking.  She's currently cruising around the house with her little-old-lady walker, but hasn't quite yet mastered taking steps on her own.  But I think we're close.... really close!

The sound she's making is a "vroom vroom" car sound, which she learned at daycare and does in response to anything with wheels.  Other new tricks include nodding her head "yes" (see last week's dancing baby post), shaking her head "no," waving and saying "hi" and "bye," and saying "uh oh."  

In a few days we'll be flying back east for a family week in New Hampshire (sooooo excited!), and Lucy will be embarking on her first cross-country plane ride (not so excited).  Wish us luck!

Twinkle Toes

Is there anything cuter than a dancing baby?  Answer: no.

Here's Lucy shaking her tail feathers with some nice ladies at the Fillmore Street Jazz Festival this past weekend.  She was entranced by the music and was a good girl about keeping her earmuffs on.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUCY!!!

One year ago today, Lucille Amelia Mekkelson entered our lives.  As a newborn, she endured things that no adult should ever have to experience.  But she was amazingly tough, and she inspired us to stay strong and have faith in her ability to survive, heal, and thrive.  To this day, she continues to inspire us and serves as a daily reminder of how precious life is.  And she continues to inspire and give hope to others who are facing a scary and uncertain future clouded by the specter of gastroschisis.  

Happy, happy, happy birthday my sweet little Lucille.  A year ago, it seemed like this day would never come.  Words simply can't describe the emotions I feel when I think back on where we were then, and where we are now.

And just in case there still some tissues left in that box, I will close with Erik's heart-melting Facebook tribute to the birthday girl...

Her name means light and she was born on the summer solstice...and she's also apparently a Miami Heat fan (we'll forgive her for that last one). So it's no surprise she brightens the day of anyone around her like a ray of warm sunshine, whether it's her proud parents & grandparents or the guy stocking shelves at the grocery store. Happy 1st birthday Lucille. WE LOVE YOU! 

First Taste of Milk

Lucy turns ONE YEAR OLD TOMORROW!!!  Let that sink in for a minute.  That means it's time to switch from formula to cow's milk, and thank goodness, because formula ain't cheap.  Here she is experiencing her first taste of milk, and letting out an impressive burp of approval.

And here she is playing her new favorite game, Close the Door.