Christmas Time, Christmas Time (and New Years!)

Technically, last year was Sonny's first Christmas, however I don't believe he remembers it. So, one could make a case that this was Sonny's first Christmas. Either way, he seemed to enjoy himself despite constantly fighting a cold.

It started out at home, with the Donnellys on Christmas Eve and of course Christmas morning. Sonny was delighted most of the time.

We then went to Grandma Chris' house for Christmas dinner, where we were joined by many. Sonny was again delighted - the celebration that never ceases! It was Sonny's first experience with potatoes au gratin - perhaps a little rich for his little tummy - a restless sleep was to come.

After an evening to ourselves, we were joined by Grampa Bill & Grandma Joni, who Sonny doesn't get to see nearly enough of. He was delighted once again. These people know grandkids, and their dogs do too!

And finally, New Years Eve, spent quietly at home with Mom & Dad. Champagne and warm formula flowed, all were asleep by 11pm, and Sonny slept soundly. Sonny was delighted of course.

Happy 2009 everyone!

One? One?! ONE!

Well, Sonny's now a one year-old! But first, some pictures from Thanksgiving & Aunt Kate's birthday... hosted by Grandma Chris!

Sonny & Mom working together

Peter carves it up

Sonny, Mom, and Lee G. break bread

Happy Birthday Aunt Kate!

Losing steam after dinner

Ladies' man

We started Sonny's birthday with some much-needed tickles in our pajamas. There's not much a laughing baby can't cure. We were joined by the rest of the family later that day for appetizers, cupcakes, and some drinks. Sonny wanted me to extend a thanks to everyone who was there, and those who couldn't be there.

Ha!

birthday boy after the birthday bath

dressed to kill

"thanks for coming, ma'am"

a career as a cobbler? you've got to be kidding me.

so many birthday kisses

Sonny with his first, first cousin (see tummy below Sonny!)

just shy of thirty inches!

Daddy, so tired

more birthday kisses from mama-bear

yes, he does... yes, he does.

Woo hoo! Sonny's first rocking horse, er ah, rex.

Compliments of Grandpop Bob's power tools and paint brushes.

Once again, thanks so much to everyone for their generosity on Sonny's birthday. It's been an amazing first year for an amazing young boy. We want to thank everyone again for all their help, love, and support during the best & worst of times.

Pre-Turkey Day Warmup

Just a quickie to get some recent pics up for display. Notable events included a trip to NYC / Central Park, intro to acoustic guitar, football discovery, and first steps!

Oh yeah, AND Sonny's first face-to-face with a giant Elmo (who was a little too big for Sonny's taste).

Not a very good picture, but an important milestone - Sonny's first unassisted step! Followed by a tumble in Walter's direction - I'm not sure if Walter is capable of recognizing the first day of the rest of his life, but this is likely a key moment.

Caged heat - so adorable in his hooded, striped supersuit. Adults everywhere are jealous.

We think we've discovered the cure for Rutgers' not-so-great start to the football season - and now he wears it for every game.

More music!

Central Park with Aunt Sal!

More pictures coming soon from Sonny's first Thanksgiving - until then, hope yours is a great one!

Plumber? I didn't call a plumber. Candygram!

A very happy Halloween one and all. An old Saturday Night Live skit taught us a valuable lesson - don't be tempted by the lure of the dolphin, particularly if that dolphin can't find its way out of a river.

http://www.spike.com/video/land-shark/2802070

For Sonny's first Halloween, he went as that very land-shark although much less scary and predatory.

Mom and grandma Chris couldn't hold back the emotion during the parade... wait 'til graduation!

It was a weekend full of family - grandma Chris spent some time at our house after the parade on Friday.

Uncle Kofi and the soon-to-be mama bear, Aunt Hillary, came by on Saturday evening before we all went down to Rumson, NJ to celebrate grandpop Bob's birthday on Sunday morning.

Happy Birthday Grandpop!