She's Got Legs...

...and she knows how to use 'em. It's a proud day when you get to quote ZZ Top in a blog post about your daughter. Yesterday my little girl took her first steps!!! We've been sitting her in her little chair and coaxing her into reaching for our hands and walking towards us. Yesterday she was able to do it without holding on. And after two momentous steps... she fell flat on her face. But that didn't deter Isabel! Kyle was even able to get some of it on video. She still prefers crawling for now because she can do it so speedily and there are far fewer faceplants involved. However, I think soon she'll be walking full time. Watch out world!

Happy Birthday Isabel!!!

Isabel turned one year old today! Kyle put together this poster to show how much she's changed. It's hard to believe we met her for the first time one year ago.

Birthday Party

Our house has finally calmed down a bit after the preparation and hubbub of the last week. Kyle and I were busy getting ready for Isabel's first birthday party! All week we were shopping for food and decorations, putting together photo albums, and cleaning the house. It was all worth it... the party was a great success. Some highlights:

• Around 30 people attending, 9 of whom were under the age of 5. Our home will never be the same again (anyone know who got purple crayon on the coffee table? Isabel ain't talkin')
  
• The "Pin the Nose on Elmo" game was a hit with the munchkins


• Kids quickly discover that hot light bulbs + balloons = explosions


• When a 4 year old boy asks you, in a not-so-innocent voice, if there is a basement... lie.


• Cooking with a crock pot can be hazardous... if you accidentally cook the cord along with your food. (R.I.P., crock pot!)


• Gifts, gifts, and more gifts! Isabel was spoiled rotten.
  

Isabel really seemed to enjoy the party, even though she didn't seem to realize she was the guest of honor. At least I hope she enjoyed it, because Kyle has sworn that's her first and LAST party!!!

Singing happy birthday...

Birthday cake and a snazzy party hat...


You know it's a good party when you end up under a table with no pants on...

More birthday photos

2006 - Isabel's First Year In Review

I know, I know, this post should've been written on December 31st, but in case you haven't noticed, we have a baby. That tends to keep us a little busy.

Here are my top ten highlights of 2006 - The Year Of Isabel:

• Baby laughter - the most delightful sound I could ever hope to hear
• Sleep (this didn't happen until around April)
• Peekaboo
• Wrestling matches/Tickle fights
• Baby smells - yes, even the bad ones
• Cute outfits
• Story time
• Watching Isabel learn something new every day
• Headbutting (this is how she shows affection)
• Walking in the door and seeing Isabel's face light up, knowing my face is doing the same