WOW, She's ONE!!

Leila's first birthday was a fabulous event! We had a lovely party with wonderful people! And for once, Leila was actually a bit overwhelmed by being the center of attention. But she certainly enjoyed all the great company and loves all her new toys and clothes. Thank you so much to everyone!!

Happy Birthday Leila!!

Leila is a lucky girl! She had so many friends that were eager to help her celebrate her first birthday. We are so happy to know so many wonderful people. Thank you for sharing our special day.
Leila was more interested in the crowd singing happy birthday than the chocolate headed her way. She graciously shared her cake with everyone else and settled for a banana bread muffin for herself.
Excited to tear into her pretty gifts.
Chloe and Harper did an excellent job helping Leila open her presents. Thank you!!
Olivia and Leila enjoyed some play time.
And the men cornered the food table for themselves.
This was the first installment of Leila's 3-day birthday celebration... not bad for a one-year-old. For daycare on Friday, I brought banana bread muffins for everyone to enjoy.
Leila's weekday posse.

Pretty Places Near Home

The following three shots are from two of the land preserves that the organization where I work, Sequoia Riverlands Trust, owns and manages. Today was my first time out to Dry Creek Preserve, and it truly was a special place. The rolling green hills glistened after two days of rain and the wispy clouds that tickled the folds of the hills accented the whole scene with a sense of charming mysticism.

Gazing out across the lush green hillsides of Dry Creek Preserve, near Three Rivers.
After a misty morning at Dry Creek, the sun peeked out to say hello before gifting us with some more much needed rain on the region.
A close up of some great valley oak leaves at the Kaweah Oaks Preserve.

Almost there...

Leila has been so very, very determined to walk like all the "big kids." She gets up, she falls. She gets up, she takes two steps, and she falls. After repeated, nearly audible kerplunks on the toosh, she just keeps getting right back up on her feet. Failing is not an option for our little girl. In the past couple weeks, she's gone from taking a very hesitant two steps to taking about six or seven bold strides, covering at least 3 feet at a time. Might she squeeze in the full accomplishment of this major milestone by her first birthday next week?

Love from Leila and Dolce

Leila says, "Dada, you've got mail." She thinks the New Yorker wants you to resubscribe.
Dolce and Leila have been getting close. Well, Dolce tolerates Leila's clumsy attempts at affection.
This is Dolce's new favorite spot, much to my chagrin. I guess I can't blame her though, looks pretty comfy, and it has a great view of the backyard and all the prowling neighborhood felines.

A Trip to the Zoo!

Reaching out to pet a goat at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo.
Checking out some more goats.

We all loved visiting with the graceful, gorgeous, gentle giraffes.

And David points out some feathered friends in the jungle.

Belated Pics of New Year 2009

Gonna party like it's my first Happy New Year. Hey, and did you know, I turn ONE in a month!
Leila tests out her psychic powers with a tarot card reading.

Looking pretty. Is there any other way?
And as pretty as she is sporty. Daddy and Leila love to play a good game of catch.