Cora Ann Turns Two

On January 26th, Cora turned two!  We had a wonderful weekend with Grandma Mel and the Nonnos.  It began with some birthday pancakes, and was capped by a visit to the Cincinnati aquarium and a tasting of Cora's beloved apple pie (which as it turned out wasn't quite as beloved as the ice cream that went with it).  Thanks to everyone for the celebration and presents, we were very appreciative of your help making Cora feel celebrated.  She has a lot of love in her life.

From the aquarium:

 The birthday celebration back at the house:

Uncle Patrick

One week ago, I lost my older brother, Patrick.  Cora lost her uncle.  This video was taken about a month before Patrick died.

"To the outside world we all grow old.  But not to our brothers and sisters  We know each other as we always were.  We know each other's hearts.  We share private family jokes  We remember family friends and secrets, family griefs and joys.  We live outside the touch of time." 

Patrick, we will always love you and be proud of you, and we will always hold you deeply in our hearts.  I will never stop missing you.  

Thanksgiving 2013

"When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully everyone is blessed."  -- Maya Angelou

This Thanksgiving, we were thankful to celebrate with delicious food, and great friends and neighbors.

Nanna and Grandpa videos and photos (November 2013)

Thank you Nanna and Grandpa, for watching Cora while mommy and daddy were at ABCT!

A few videos from Baba/Grandpa:

Brushing Jack's teeth

Grooming Jack

Dancing with baby doll

Cooking with Nanna

Merry Christmas 2013!

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” 
― Charles Dickens

Merry Christmas!

wrapping mommy's present

excited for visitors!

fun with Nanna and Aunt Maggie 

Christmas morning!  

Cora's first Snowgirl :)

Cora's toddler bed!

Three nights of good sleep in a row, and counting!