Lately, Eisley has been showing a lot of interest in eating with real utensils. So we bought her a little fork to start practicing with. She pretty much picked it up right away.

Interesting note: she’s definitely more coordinated with her left hand than her right. Courtney is excited that our daughter may be a lefty.

Video

Eisley is a true Central Texan now. We visited the Salt Lick on Friday night. Eisley ate brisket, sausage, potatoes and coleslaw. After dinner we enjoyed live music on the outdoor patio.

Photos

Eisley - Year 1Dear Eisley,

Well, here it is. The day has come, and you, my dear, are now one entire year old. This time last year, Mommy and Daddy were headed bright and early to the hospital to prepare to bring you into the world. You took some time making your entrance, and at exactly 6:07 pm you arrived. The first time we laid eyes on you and heard your sweet cry we fell in love with you more than either of your parents ever thought was possible. Daddy kept you company while the nurses weighed you and made sure you were okay, and you took the time to let him know that you already recognized him by wrapping your tiny little hand around his finger. Mommy suspects that it was that exact moment that you stole his heart.

When they placed your little swaddled warm body in my arms and our eyes met, I honestly couldn’t believe it. You see, Mommy and Daddy often refer to you as ‘the survivor’. You were the strongest one. There is much more to that story, and one day we will share everything with you. Just know that we are forever thankful for your strength and resiliency.

We look at you today and are constantly amazed by the wonderful child in our presence. You are so sweet and good-natured, and quite a social little being (possibly living up to your Leo status). You never hesitate to share your adorable smile with others.

You have the most beautiful eyes, and they shine so brightly all the time. People are forever commenting on your eyes and they, along with those mile-long lashes of yours, will no doubt be used as artillery against your parents in the future. Daddy and I will be fully preparing ourselves for that day (but you might just win anyway).

It’s a true joy to watch your exploration of the world on a daily basis. You have a great curiosity and a need to figure out how things work. In fact, your inquisitiveness sometimes leaves your parents breathless from trying to shut a door or put an item up high. We realize that at this age learning typically doesn’t take place when sitting still, and all the darting about Mommy and Daddy do is good for our health.

You are right on the verge of walking, and it is so exciting to see. You can stand alone now and we know that those first little steps are going to happen soon. Then there will be no stopping you!

Your personality is shining through all the time, and you have a way of making us laugh often as you imitate us. From all of the fun we have now, Mommy and Daddy get to see glimpses of what you will be like when you are a little older. We think you are an amazing child and such a beautiful little being. It has been said so many times before, but how lucky we are to have you in our lives.

Thank you, Eisley, for being the strongest one. Our lives are forever changed because of you, and in such a fantastic and incredible way.

We love you more than you can possibly imagine,

Mommy and Daddy

On Thursday, July 30th, Eisley turned one. This has honestly been the fastest year of our lives and I’m sure there’s no slowing down from here. We’re enjoying the ride though.

From her parents, Eisley received a comfy chair with her name embroidered on it.

Video: Eisley gets a chair for her birthday

Later that afternoon, Granna (Courtney’s mom) brought over two cupcakes, one for her and one for Eisley. Thursday was Granna’s birthday as well. When it was time to eat, Eisley knew exactly what to do. She promptly picked up the cupcake and shoved it into her face. She quickly turned a perfectly formed cupcake into a sugary disaster.

Video: Eisley eats a cupcake

Eisley had a big day on Saturday. From 10:00 – 12:00, she had all her friends over to the house to celebrate her one year birthday. The parents stood around and watched the kids swim in one (or all) of three swimming pools, play in the sandbox, ride in the wagon or hide in the castle. About halfway through the chaos we took a break to watch Eisley devour a swimsuit cake that Granna made for her. This one was more of a challenge than the cupcake, but she fared pretty well.

Video: Eisley eats cake at her birthday party

After filling up on sugary goodness, Eisley took another dip in the pool, then played at the sand table with her cousin Finley.

Video: Other activities at the party

Thanks go to everyone who helped make Eisley’s birthday a special occasion.

Photos

Uncle Eric is a traveling man and only makes it up to Austin every now and then. We were lucky to have him for 6 weeks recently and Eisley met him for the first time on May 29th. She took to him right away (and I think he was pretty fond of her as well).

Some of the activities Eisley enjoyed while Eric was in town were:

  • A trip to the Frio river
  • A day at Dick Nichols park
  • A day at Barton Springs pool
  • The 4th of July in Pipe Creek, Texas
  • Backyard lounging in the baby pool
  • Plenty of eating out
  • Lots of family gatherings

Of course the camera was always nearby and we got a few pics of them together. Eric, Eisley already misses you and can’t wait to see you again.

Photos

Older Posts    Newer Posts
^ Return to Top