Eli and Dan got out for a short hike a couple of days before the blizzard hit. For the first time, Eli was able to walk around the woods on his own.

Out for a walk (before the heavy snow hit)

Learning to eat snow and to slide (4 to 5 inches)

Taking in the unbelievable amount of snow (2 ft? We’re not sure of final counts, but Dan can attest to what a pain it was to shovel)

Removing layers of snow clothing is much easier if you play ball

Dan getting much deserved cuddles after shoveling

Eli eating and working on using a spoon

Eli’s favorite recent accomplishment is learning how to climb down stairs

Playing at the Children’s Museum

Chillin’ in chairs with Salena

Matteo feeding the goats

Eli finds Matteo incredibly entertaining

Some stats about the boy at One:

Eli is on the move these days! He progressed quickly from walking to running, and his running skills continue to be fueled by his love for chasing our cat, Sadie. Eli is passionate about books (only the ones picked by him), food (he pretty much eats anything), babbling (mama, dada, ball, booo (book) and all sorts of other non-words) and playing (Tupperware, napkins, stacked rings and nested cups are his current favorites). He loves spending time on swings, singing, playing piano with Dad, curled up reading books or chasing Sadie. Lately, he has developed some serious giggles before bedtime as well (see video below). Eli is sure of himself and knows exactly what he wants and doesn’t want. Where did he get these opinions from? He is unbelievably determined to try new things and is also clear about what he doesn’t like, such as diaper changes (which, these days, sound like we are trying to restrain a wild animal).

We’re amazed that a year has gone by already and we can’t thank our family and friends enough for all of their help and support along the way!

A weekend with Grandma and Gordon:

Reading with Mom and Dad:

Chasing Sadie:

 All dressed up with Nonno at a wedding:

Enjoying the Fall weather:

Dressed up on Halloween & reading with Dad.  Eat your heart out, Kermit:

Eli is all about working on walking these days. Check out his progress below:

Enjoying time with friends Mike, Molly and Nora at the Cape.