Welch Family Blog

Fall Fun!

2010-11-04T10:49:00.006-04:00

During the last month we took advantage of the beautiful Fall weather.

We headed to Trax Farms to take a hay ride, climb on pumpkins

and talk with the animals.

Chocolate Monster!!!!

Spending time with Grammy and Pappy.

Happy Halloween!!

Molly drew the face on the jack-o-lantern herself!

Molly's First Day of Preschool!

2010-09-07T10:01:00.005-04:00

Today was Molly's first day of school and she was soooo excited!

She started off with a special breakfast complete with flowers!

Molly just before she entered the classroom!

Birthday Fun!

2010-07-11T12:16:00.008-04:00

Our little Nora Louise turned one! We celebrated with family and lots of cake! At her one year check-up, Nora weighed in at a solid 21 pounds. She's been walking for about a month, and eats whatever she can get her hands on! Now, if only she would start to drink milk -- she currently HATES it :(

Nora started her day with some of Daddy's delicious

chocolate chip pancakes.
Cousins Sarah, Sadie and Sophie watch
as Nora tears into her presents.

Our Birthday Girl!

Nora's princess cake.

Needless to say, Nora enjoyed her cake!

Daddy took a couple days off, so we headed to

the Children's Museum.

Daddy and Nora pose in front of King Friday's Castle.

The girls loved the Curious George exhibit.

This area was called "The Garage."

Shadow dancing!

This was a sea-saw that produced bubbles

every time the girls went up and down.

The museum has a whole floor called "Water Play" --

Molly thought that this meant swimming and tried to climb in.

The art area was also a hit!

After the museum, we headed to lunch.

Outside the restaurant, was this fountain. Molly loved running through it!

Summer Fun!

2010-06-21T12:37:00.004-04:00

The girls sported "I love My Dad"

shirts on Father's day.

We headed to Buffalo, NY to visit our good friend
Maria and her daughter Lily.

Lily and Nora

Here's one of our many trips to the park.

This is our trip to a local farm.

Mommy tells Molly where she needs to drive.

MOO!

This little cow really enjoyed chewing on Nora's shoe.

Nora, however, did not enjoy it all that much.

Molly was a little scared at first on this huge slide.

But after one time down, we had a hard time prying her away!

Playing Catch up!

2010-06-08T11:10:00.005-04:00

We've been busy here at the Welch House. The girls keep mommy and daddy on their toes, and are growing up so quickly! Nora is quickly approaching the one-year mark, and Molly is looking forward to starting her "big girl" gymnastics class in a couple of weeks. Here are some recent pics of the girls having fun around the house!

Over Memorial Day Weekend, we broke out the pool

and let the girls splash around (check out Molly's crazy hair!).

Molly being her usual, silly self.

Nora has been cruising along,

and can stand by herself.
I fear she'll be walking in the next few weeks!

Welch Family Christmas

2009-12-28T10:43:00.005-05:00

We had a great Christmas this year (aside from my massive headache). We headed over to Aunt Lynn's house on Christmas Eve, went to a beautiful Mass on Christmas Day, and had family over after Mass. The girls had a wonderful time opening gifts and spending time with family.

Opening gifts at Aunt Lynn's house.
A princess vanity/keyboard!

Aunt Lynn shows Nora her present.

Christmas morning -- Molly loved her trampoline!

Her other favorite present was a cupcake kit.

Great Pap got Molly dolly "sisters" that actually talk to each other!

Nora plays with some of her new toys.

Sister pics

Merry Christmas from the Welch's!

2009-12-21T10:01:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas! Here are a few updated

pics to hold you over until the New Year!

Our picture with Santa was a success -- NO TEARS!

Halloween and Fall Fun

2009-11-01T10:20:00.009-05:00

Well...We're back! We had a great October full of pumpkin picking,

trick-or-treating and family fun. At the beginning of the month Aunt Amy and cousins Sadie and Sophie came to visit. We headed Trax Farms for the fall festival. Molly loved being with her cousins and can't wait for their next visit.

Sadie and Sophie raked a huge leaf pile

which Molly enjoyed jumping into!

Sophie and Molly climbing on the pumpkins.

"I'm king of the world!"

Molly didn't enjoy the train as much as last year.

She didn't like the petting zoo either.

We headed to Simmons Farm with John's mom.

That's where we picked our pumpkin!

Partners in crime!

Molly and Daddy did a great job with our pumpkin.

Molly thought this is what the face should look like!

She was very into drawing the face.

Halloween night! Molly was Brobee from Yo Gabba Gabba.

Our Little Pumpkin enjoyed her first Halloween!

Mommy with her little monsters!

September

2009-10-01T15:13:00.004-04:00

Well, September has flown by and Nora is

quickly approaching the 3 month mark. Here are some pics

from the past month.

Daddy and his girls.

Molly has been very good with Nora.

Here Molly cuddles and feeds her little sis.

Tummy time!

Nora Louise was baptized on September 20th.

You can see her excitement as she gets ready for her big day!

A cheesy pose with Uncle Adam.

Nora and her Godparents -- Our good friend Paul Snatchko

and 'Grammy' -- Allison's mom.

Family pics

2009-08-19T12:12:00.005-04:00

Wow! August is flying by! Nora is already 6 weeks and growing like a weed.

Molly is a great big sister, although sometimes she doesn't understand the word "gentle". It's been very hot here, which keeps us inside a lot. We've been having a great time with the girls, but it's also been very hectic (thus our lack of posts).

John celebrated his 33rd b-day a few weeks ago.

Molly spends a lot of time dressing up!

She also entertains us with her musical ability!

Our little Nora!

The girls just hanging out.

A "shout out" to Daddy!

Pom Pom Madness

2009-07-18T11:41:00.002-04:00

Molly decided to put all of her Pom Poms on Baby Nora while she sleeps.

At The Park

2009-07-11T08:43:00.004-04:00

Molly and her cousins, Sadie and Sophie passing time at the Park.

Nora Louise

2009-07-07T22:36:00.002-04:00

Too tired to post anything but pictures. BTW - This is John.

Summer Fun

2009-06-20T09:29:00.010-04:00

Before Baby #2 arrives and the craziness begins, we've been trying to take some day trips.

For Mother's Day, Daddy and Molly took me to the zoo.

Molly could have spent all day watching the polar bears.

A couple weeks ago, we packed a

picnic and headed to Oglebay.

They have a Discovery lab for kids where Molly

enjoyed pretending to be a veterinarian.

For an early Father's Day present, we took Daddy to a Pirate's Game.

It was Molly's first time at the ball park.

I think this was Molly's favorite part!

Because Molly is part of the Bucco's Kids' Club,

she was able to walk down onto the field and run the bases with Daddy.

Fun Around the House

2009-05-13T08:29:00.002-04:00

Here are some pics of Molly being her crazy self .

I wonder where she gets it?

WE finally have gotten some nice weather,

so we broke out the sprinkler!

Splash Lagoon Trip

2009-05-10T08:41:00.006-04:00

We took a trip to Splash Lagoon a few weeks ago. It was the last hurrah for the Three Amigos before Baby Number 2.

Getting ready for the pool and water slides.

Having fun at the Arcade.

Drying off.

Drawing and painting a Piggy Bank at the activity center.

PITT Fan Fest

2009-04-11T21:18:00.012-04:00

We headed down to Heinz Field with our friend Eddie to the University of Pittsburgh's Fan Fest. They had a lot of activities including a kids' clinic where Molly learned some mad skills from the Pitt players.

Molly poses with Shane Murray and Adam Gunn.

Eddie and Molly

Molly assures her Daddy that Pitt will be
#1 this year -- wishful thinking!

Molly shows off her panther paw print.

Molly settles in to watch the spring football game.
Go PITT!

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Catching up!

2009-03-04T18:36:00.006-05:00

Because of the lovely Pittsburgh weather, we haven't been doing much. However, here a few random pics to keep you updated.

For Valentine's Day, Pappy made a special stool for Molly

so she can reach the bathroom sink. However,

Molly thought it was a seat for playing her guitar on!

Daddy took Molly to Home Depot for their Children's Workshop.

They built a birdhouse together and Molly couldn't wait to paint it.

After painting the birdhouse, Molly was on a painting kick.

Here she is showing her watercolor ability.

Hanging out on the table!

Molly surviving the elements in the house.

She pulled a "Forest Gump" in this picture

and closed her eyes -- priceless!

Apparently you need a helmet to ride a Smart Cycle.

Daddy always says "safety first."

Sesame Street, Snow and Other Random Pics

2009-01-27T11:53:00.007-05:00

Since our last blog, Molly has celebrated her 2nd birthday, we saw Sesame Street Live, we've gotten our first significant snowfall and have tried to keep ourselves busy inside.

Molly's favorite part of the cake was the Elmo and beach ball.

She carried them around for about 2 weeks after her party.

Aunt Lynn and Pap Pap got us Sesame Street Live tickets for Christmas. We were so close to the stage, Molly got hugs from Elmo, Telly Monster and a 'High 5' from Cookie Monster.

With all the new toys from Christmas and Molly's Birthday,

Molly and Daddy have been keeping busy!

A couple of weeks ago, we got our first big snowfall. Daddy took Molly sled riding and Molly's friend Amy joined them.

Making a mess with Play -Doh.

Molly decided to make her doll lunch.

A face only a mother could love!

Carnegie Science Center

2008-12-30T09:55:00.004-05:00

The weekend before Christmas, our friends Dino, Sebatiano, and Perry had a birthday party at the Carnegie Science Center.

Molly got to pet a Madagascar hissing cockroach!

(Lins -- this one's for you!)
Mommy and Molly make their own little movie.

Of course, Molly loved the water!

In the weather area, Molly swirled

her hand in the smog machine.

She also got to pet a horseshoe crab.

For Christmas, they had a huge train display.

The Welch Family Christmas!

2008-12-28T09:56:00.007-05:00

Molly must have been a good girl this year, because Santa brought her lots of presents. Even though it wasn't a "white" Christmas, we has a wonderful day!

YEAH! Santa's coming!

Molly woke up to find that Santa
left her a kitchen of her very own!

Molly picked out a special present for Daddy!

Molly loved her new 'Hi-5' DVD.

She couldn't stop drawing on her Magna-Doodle.

Then it was time to get ready for Church.

After Church, Pap Pap stopped over and gave

Molly a trunk full of dress-up clothes.

We headed over to Grammy and Pappy's house for dinner

where Molly was very interested in Uncle Adam's dog Max.

We ended the night over Great Grandpap Bauer's house.

Molly loved playing with my cousin's little girl Morgan.

Lunch with Santa!

2008-12-22T15:44:00.007-05:00

We headed to Trax Farm with our friends the Kasperowski's to have lunch with Santa. Of course, from far away, Molly was very excited to see the Big Guy. However, when it was our turn to see him, well, you'll see...

Max gets his lunch from Santa, while Miss Tracy and Sarah look on.
Molly colors while she eats.

And here it is...our "picture" with Santa!

Yes, Molly is in there somewhere!

We also made gingerbread houses.

Here's our group picture: Miss Tracy, Max, Sarah,

Molly, Allison and John.

Molly and Sarah really liked putting their

faces through the holes!

Deck The Halls!

2008-12-09T11:27:00.004-05:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Welch house. We decorated the tree and John braved temps in the 20s to hang lights outside. Molly enjoyed decorating the tree and got so excited every time we pulled out a new ornament. So far, most have stayed on the tree, but sometimes I catch her trying to sneak one off!

Mommy's Big Day!

2008-11-18T11:12:00.008-05:00

A couple weeks ago, John took a Friday off for Mommy's birthday and we headed to the zoo. It was a beautiful day and it seemed like all the animals were out and active. Molly loved the elephants and lions. She wasn't a big fan of the fish, but loved the penguins!

Daddy and Molly pose with a tiger.

Molly loved the elephants because there

was a "Mama, Dada and Molly elephant".

What a way to spend the day!

That night we had cake and ice cream.

Molly was a big help opening presents and blowing out the candles!

Halloween Fun!

2008-11-04T08:30:00.006-05:00

We had a very successful Halloween here at the Welch house. On Thursday, we carved our family Jack o' Lantern. Then on Friday our little "Elmo" had a blast trick-or-treating. After a few houses, Molly got the idea and ended up unloading her bag twice!

Molly was a big help getting all the seeds out --

but she didn't like touching it!

Before trick-or-treating, Elmo went for a little swing --

and tested our candy!

Molly proudly shows off all her hard work!

Attack of the Killer Pigs!

2008-11-01T20:06:00.002-04:00

Video from our visit to Trax Farms. It appears on camera that Molly was attacked by two pigs. She wasn't. She lost her balance by freaking out at the thought of being attacked by two pigs. She and dad are resting well.

***No person or animal was harmed during the making of this video.***

Trax Farms

2008-10-30T13:23:00.007-04:00

We headed to Trax Farms with Grammy and Pappy for their annual Fall Festival. The day was complete with a hayride, train ride and pumpkin picking. Of course, Molly liked the train ride the best!

Daddy points out the pigs and goats.

Molly patiently waits to give the conductor her ticket.

A Fun Filled Weekend

2008-10-15T13:07:00.007-04:00

This past weekend we were "Social Butterflies." It started Saturday morning when we invited some friends over for breakfast and to watch the Houston Pumpkin Festival Parade. That afternoon, we attended a surprise party for John's Gram to celebrate her 85th birthday. On Sunday, we spent the day at Gram's visiting with family and friends. It was great to see family from out-of-town and Molly enjoyed meeting her cousins Kristine and Megan for the first time.

Throw me some candy!
Gram was very surprised and emotional to see

all her family and friends gathered in her honor.

Molly made a special gift for Gram.

Molly has been very interested in cars lately,
so on Sunday, Gram let Molly take her car for a spin.

Molly even met a new friend at Gram's --

a caterpillar named Fuzzy.

Molly needed a rest from all the craziness!

Molly Rockin' Out!

2008-10-07T07:19:00.004-04:00

Molly likes to play her guitar to the music of her fave band, The Laurie Berkner Band. Enjoy.

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A Potpourri of Pictures

2008-09-19T09:15:00.006-04:00

We apologize for the lack of blogging, but nothing really "momentous" has happened the last couple of weeks. We've just been plugging along waiting for the crisp Fall weather to get here. Please enjoy the following assortment of pictures that we've taken the last few weeks. We can't believe how big Molly looks in some of them. Where does the time go?

Molly enjoys sharing her mac n' cheese with Elmo!

A Saturday morning jam session with Daddy.

Molly loves trying on Daddy's stinky shoes!

We haven't "officially" begun potty training, but

Molly has found it's a great place to catch up on some reading!

Family Fun Day!

2008-09-05T11:35:00.005-04:00

John took the day off, so we headed downtown to the Pittsburgh Children's Museum. We started off in Mr. Roger's Neighborhood where Molly couldn't get enough of the player piano -- I think she thought she was playing it herself.

This exhibit took everyday objects and created art using a strobe light.
This section appealled to the senses.

Here every door Molly opened was a different texture.
This was the crooked room.
It made Mommy feel a little "icky".

Daddy and Molly rode the slide -- it was really fast!
Molly's favorite part was an exhibit called "Waterworks."

Even with the slicker, she was soaked!

We ended the day with a delicious meal at

The Cheesecake Factory -- thanks Uncle Eddie!

Daddy's New Office

2008-08-26T15:37:00.007-04:00

Daddy's company built a brand new, state-of-the-art building and on Saturday, they held an "Open House" for family and friends. The day was complete with a picnic lunch, free ice cream and entertainment. Molly, as you'll see, liked the ice cream the best!

Molly tries out Daddy's new chair. She wasn't a fan!
John stops to get autographs from Pirate legends

Kent Tekulve and Steve Blass .
He also got one from former Penguin player Phil Bourque (The Ole 2-9er).
The Pirate Parrot stops to say "hi" to Molly.

Instead of getting her face painted,
she got Elmo painted on her arm.
She then stopped to see a clown for a balloon flower.

The Washington Wild Thing wanted a taste of Molly's hot dog!
Needless to say, after eating this tasty treat, she
was a sticky mess from head to toe. We knew it was time to hit the road!

NYC and Sesame Place Trip

2008-08-23T08:51:00.006-04:00

We went to NYC and Sesame Place at the end of July. We vacationed with the Fifield and Hilleary famlies. Molly's godmother, Spin (an aspiring nun), lives in NYC and we had a small window of opportunity to see her while we were out in Philly. Enjoy the pics.

Paul (friend and co-NYC Tour Guide) and Molly.

Maria (friend and co-NYC Tour Guide), Spin, Schmell and Al

Shay and Molly at 123 Sesame Street.
Molly and Allison during the parade.

Elmo and the gang!

Idewild Park and Storybook Forest

2008-07-22T13:20:00.010-04:00

Yesterday, my MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group got together for a day at Idlewild Park. It's a great family-friendly park with rides, a water-park, and Jumpin' Jungle. Storybook Forest is also part of the park. They take well known nursery rhymes and fairly tales and make them come "alive" for the kids. Molly LOVED it. We spent the most time there. We took a ton a pictures, so it was hard to decide which ones to post. Despite the heat (and mommy's headache), we had a great time.

Mommy and Molly enter Storybook Forest through a giant book.

Molly chats it up with Mother Goose.

Daddy told Molly to stay away from boys like this.

Molly got a treat on the "Good Ship Lollipop" and was nice

enough to share it with Daddy.

Molly offered her lollipop to Goldilocks, but she passed.

Molly found this chair to be just right!

"Peter, Peter pumpkin eater..."

Molly got an apple sticker from Snow White.

She then looked at the Mirror on the Wall.

Molly makes her way to Grandmother's house

to see Little Red Riding Hood.

Mommy is not a good listener.

Daddy makes a great dwarf!

Mommy and Molly take a ride on Aladdin's magic carpet.

We headed into the amusement park to go on some rides.

Daddy and Molly started on the Caterpillar.

Molly gives a "high five" to this strange cowboy.

In Jumpin' Jungle, they have a potato sack slide, a ball pit and a zip line.

Here, air shoots out of the pipes and causes the balls to hover in the air.

Molly thought it was pretty neat!

Daddy and Molly go on her favorite ride, the "Whip."

An Amusing Day at the Park

2008-07-09T10:07:00.008-04:00

This weekend, Uncle Adam, Aunt Amy and cousins Sadie and Sophie were visiting. So on Monday, we decided to head to our local amusement park, Kennywood. Mommy and Daddy have been going there since they were little and were very excited to take Molly for the first time. She had a blast and can't wait to go back!

Mommy let Molly drive the car --

it's a good thing she has 15 more years until she drives the real thing!

Aunt Amy and Sadie

Pappy and Sophie

Uncle Adam and Grammy

Mommy, Molly, Sadie and Sophie rode a ride that went up very high--

Mommy was a little scared!

Daddy took the girls on a boat that spun around.

Mommy and Daddy pose with Kenny the Kangaroo.

Molly gives him 'high -five'.

Daddy took Molly and Sophie on a ride called the "Turtle".

Sophie liked it.

Molly did too!

Sophie carefully took Molly on the flying elephants.

You can't tell from this picture, but this was Molly's favorite ride -- the Whip.

She didn't have a lot of patience waiting for the ride to start.

Once it did, she LOVED it!

Daddy took Molly on a mini roller coaster.

She liked it so much she rode it again with Uncle Adam.

Molly enjoyed riding with the other kids.

After a long day, it was time for a snack and a snooze.

Look Out Hollywood!

2008-06-25T21:02:00.003-04:00

Tonight at dinner, Molly insisted on wearing her sunglasses. Apparently the spaghetti we were eating was too bright for her precious eyes.

" No autographs, please!"

Molly finally decided it was too hard

to eat with her 'shades' on.

I love this picture.

Who knew pasta could be so interesting!

Horsin' Around!

2008-06-24T16:29:00.003-04:00

This past weekend, Molly's Pap Pap stopped over with a visitor. To our surprise it was one of his horses, Khracker. When the neighbors saw a horse grazing in our front yard, they all came over with their cameras -- It's not something you see everyday. Molly was a little unsure, but Pap Pap said when she's older, he'll get her one of her own. Now that's the way to make friends!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-16T10:02:00.003-04:00

For Father's Day, Molly decided to make something very special for Daddy. She made a stepping stone for his garden. After Mommy poured the cement, Molly put her hand print in the middle and placed some beautiful, colorful stones around it. She finished up by painting it herself.

Of course, she needed to taste the paint to make

sure it was okay!

Then it was time to give it to Daddy.

Molly helped him read his card.

Daddy loved it!

Molly points out the excellent craftsmanship to Pap Pap --

Notice the special shirt for Father's Day!

Pap Pap looks impressed.

Thrashin'

2008-06-04T21:54:00.003-04:00

Let us introduce to you a future X Games athlete, Buggy "Tony Hawk" Welch. We expect to have her on the half pipe by the end of the year.

Relay for Life

2008-06-02T14:05:00.007-04:00

This past Saturday, one of John's co-workers organized a team to walk in the American Cancer Society's 'Relay for Life.' She asked if we were willing to take a leg of the relay and we were happy to help. Molly had a ball running around the track and waving to all those she ran past!

John's company sponsored the luminaries for the evening walk.

Molly started off in the back pack, but we let her spread her legs later on.

Molly gives a "shout out" to Daddy's company.

After our leg was done, Molly just had to run

around the football field for a while.

She stopped briefly to listen to the band and show

them some dance moves.

Before we left, Molly got her faced painted. We were amazed

that she sat still and didn't touch her face!

A Slice of Summer

2008-06-02T13:57:00.003-04:00

Nothing says "summer" more than a fresh slice of watermelon. Here's Molly enjoying her first slice of the season.

Good Times

2008-05-17T14:16:00.004-04:00

Molly thinks she's hot stuff with her cell phone (an old one Grammy gave her)

and her hip, red purse. I don't know who she talks to, but I can't pry that phone from her hands. I hope it's not a sign of things to come!

Grammy surprised Molly with a water and sand table. Because she puts everything in her mouth, we opted not to put sand in this year. So actually, it's a water and water table. Grammy also got Molly some cool water toys. She loved the squirting dinosaurs so much, she took them to bed that night!

Molly was distracted by her friend Sonny the dog.

I thought it was a great shot of her cute, little curls though!

Spring Time Pics

2008-05-11T20:55:00.004-04:00

We have been taking advantage of the beautiful weather lately. Molly has been having a ball playing in our yard, and starts to whimper when we have to go inside. She's 16 months now and has developed a great personality. Molly loves to sing, dance and hold her sidewalk chalk (not draw with it, just hold it!). We hope you enjoy the hodgepodge of Spring pictures.

Grandma Susan had us over for Mothers' Day brunch.

Molly enjoys snuggling up with her blankey!

Daddy and Molly take some time to enjoy

the beautiful Spring day

"Does it look like I'm ready for bed?"

Molly enjoyed her first ice cream cone of the season.

Molly likes to go exploring in our yard --

notice the sidewalk chalk in her hand.

LET'S GO PENS!!!

Atlanta or Bust!

2008-04-22T21:16:00.006-04:00

This past weekend, we headed to Atlanta for my cousin Kelly's wedding. It was also a weekend filled with "firsts" for Molly -- her first plane ride, her first hotel stay and her first wedding. We had a great time and it wonderful to see everyone!

Molly enjoyed running around the airport.

Daddy and Molly couldn't wait to swim at the hotel.

Sadie and Molly enjoyed all the delicious food at the wedding.

Sophie and Molly were little "Dancing Queens!"

Molly sported pink Chuck Taylors with her dress.

After the wedding the family got together to hang out.

Molly and cousin Luke take a break from all the partying.

Finally, Spring has Arrived!

2008-04-16T13:18:00.002-04:00

We apologize for our lack of posts lately. But when you're stuck inside, it doesn't lead to anything exciting. It's gotten nicer recently, so we decided to take our dinner to the park the other day and let Molly spread her legs a little. Although there were slides and things to climb on, all she wanted to do was swing.

An "Egg"citing Day!

2008-03-22T20:26:00.008-04:00

We took Molly on her first Easter egg hunt on Saturday at Trax Farm. Because it was cold and snowy, the festivities were held inside. Even though there were many eggs to be gathered, Molly was content with her yellow and pink eggs.

We were greeted by the Easter Bunny.

Molly liked him a lot more than Santa!

"I think I'll just hold these Daddy!"

Aren't they pretty?

Molly and Daddy fish for more eggs.

Barwidi-Sierleja Wedding

2008-03-16T20:17:00.006-04:00

John and I attended his cousin Kimberlee's wedding this past weekend in Cleveland. Molly stayed home with Grammy and Pappy while we partied the night away. We had a great time!

John's cousin Missy and her husband Mike.
Cousins Jessica and Heather

John's sister Lynn and her boyfriend Adam.

Cousin Kristen's Baby Bump
Al is a sucker for a man in uniform!

Happy Birthday Pappy!

2008-03-09T10:48:00.011-04:00

In honor of Pappy's 60th Birthday, we threw a surprise party this past weekend. Relatives came from near and far to help celebrate. He was very surprised and everyone had a great time!

Daddy and Molly anxiously await Pappy's arrival.

Molly can't wait to yell "Surprise!"

Pappy needed a minute to take it all in.

Cousin Sophie can hardly contain her excitement.

Happy Birthday Dad!

The whole crazy clan.

SMILE!

Molly enjoyed playing with her cousins Sadie and Sophie.

Molly was exhausted from partying too much!

Pappy's girls help him blow out all those candles.

A poem by Mary Ellen.

Random Pics

2008-02-27T11:13:00.004-05:00

With the "icky" weather, we haven't had any exciting things to post lately. Unfortunately, with the all the pictures we've taken over the last year, Molly wants nothing to do with the camera. She turns her head when John or I come at her to take a picture. So enjoy the following pictures of the side, back and top of Molly's head!

A Snowy Day

2008-02-15T13:52:00.005-05:00

Our long-awaited snow arrived this past week. Molly and Daddy have been dying to try out their new sleds. Unfortunately, the snow was too heavy and wet to really get going. So Daddy just pulled Buggy around and even gave her a taste of the white stuff.

A Nice February Day

2008-02-04T14:24:00.000-05:00

We've been suffering from a bad case of "cabin fever", so yesterday we decided to head outside because it was somewhat warmer -- if you call 55 degrees warmer! Molly enjoyed giving her walking abilities a try outside.

We're Walking!

2008-01-24T20:22:00.000-05:00

Over the past few weeks, Molly has taken many steps here and there. But today, her status has been upgraded to full-fledged walker! As the night progressed, Molly went from hesitant to courageous. By the end of the night, she was pulling herself up and getting started without any help. One more milestone accomplished. Way to go Bug!

"Ring Around The Rosies"

2008-01-20T09:26:00.000-05:00

Aunt Amy and cousins Sadie and Sophie were visiting this weekend. Molly was very excited to show them one of her favorite songs. Of course, her favorite part is falling down! Who knew a song about the bubonic plague could be so entertaining!

A Cool Story

2008-01-14T20:10:00.000-05:00

When Molly woke up from her nap, she had quite a story to tell. From what I gathered, it involved a beautiful princess named Molly.

Happy Birthday Bug!!!

2008-01-05T16:04:00.000-05:00

At 4:26 today, Molly officially turned a year old! We celebrated with a lot of family and friends. She received many cool gifts that she'll have fun playing with.

I'm One!

Mmmm...Looks good!

Wow! A singing dog from Pap Pap!

Do I have anything on my face?

Sitting in my new chair with Spiderman and the Hulk.

A Little Piece of History

2007-12-29T11:48:00.000-05:00

We headed to the Heinz Regional History Center on Friday. They had an exhibit celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Pittsburgh Steelers. We also visited the Western Pennsylvania Sports exhibit at the center. It was a great "family fun" day!

Daddy shows Molly the history of his favorite football team.

Am I big enough to play for the Steelers?

Molly touches a piece of turf that Franco Harris caught the "Immaculate Reception" on.

The "X" marks the spot where Harris caught the famous reception.

Molly tries her hand at speed boat racing.

Watch out Tiger Woods!

Is that Honus Wagner?

No one can score with Molly in the net!

Molly's First Christmas!

2007-12-27T20:39:00.001-05:00

Molly must have been a good girl this year, because Santa brought her lots of fun toys. We enjoyed watching her excitement and celebrating our first Christmas together.

Molly loved her "Sing-a-Long" Stage.

She even sang a few notes for us. A star is born!

A Present for Daddy!

2007-12-27T20:26:00.000-05:00

Molly couldn't wait to give Daddy his gift, so she gave it to him the day before Christmas. Now all we need is snow!

Cabbage Patch Kids

2007-12-24T09:09:00.000-05:00

Our friend Eddie gave Molly a present for Christmas that she could not wait until tomorrow to open.

Play Date!

2007-12-20T19:11:00.000-05:00

Today our friends Miss Joanna, Julia (2yrs.) and Andrea (3 months) came over to play. It was a lot of fun and Molly enjoyed her first piece of pizza. We can't wait until they come over again!

Molly Meets Santa

2007-12-07T20:15:00.002-05:00

We headed to our local library for a tree trimming party. There were a ton of kids, a choir singing Christmas carols, and of course Santa. We had a lot of fun and Molly made some new friends.

Molly and Mommy catch up on their reading before Santa's arrival.

You can tell from her expression, Molly wasn't too sure about Old St. Nick.

Molly inspected Santa for a few minutes and then decided she didn't like him.

Paul Fifield would be very, very disappointed with Allison's camera work. I guess they will give a Communications Degrees to anyone at Franciscan University.

"O Christmas Tree!"

2007-12-04T12:54:00.000-05:00

We pulled out the old Christmas decorations last weekend. Molly enjoyed the box the tree came in more than the tree itself. I guess we know what Santa will be bringing her for Christmas!

A tree that comes in a box?

Molly opens a special ornament from Grammy to remember her first Christmas.

Daddy helps Molly put the ornament on the tree!

Chuck E. Cheese's

2007-11-25T12:58:00.000-05:00

The day after Thanksgiving, John, Amy and I took the girls to Chuck E. Cheese's. Molly had a great time on the different rides and watching her cousins, Sadie and Sophie playing the games. We had a lot of fun and can't wait to go back again!

Bug's First Thanksgiving!

2007-11-24T11:16:00.000-05:00

Molly enjoyed her first Thanksgiving. Uncle Adam came in, as well as Aunt Amy and Uncle Jim and cousins Sadie and Sophie. She wasn't a fan of the turkey, but she "gobbled"up Grammy's mashed potatoes. It was great day full of good food, family and friends.

Yummy Pudding!

Molly and Great Aunt Gloria

Time to go home. What a great day!

Crazy Pics!!!

2007-11-24T11:01:00.000-05:00

Crazy Pics taken by Cousin Sadie on Thanksgiving.

Aunt Allison

Uncle John

Sophie

Mommy (Amy)

Mirror, Mirror

2007-11-15T19:47:00.000-05:00

Molly loves looking at the "baby" in the mirror. Before bath time last night, she stopped by the mirror to gab a little at her reflection.

Lazy Day

2007-11-11T20:38:00.000-05:00

We've been battling our first colds of the season, so we decided to take a day to rest and snuggle. Molly especially likes cuddling up with her monkey (the stuffed animal, not her Daddy)!

A Visit with Great Gram

2007-11-11T20:31:00.000-05:00

Gram stopped over this past weekend to see Molly before she heads to California for Thanksgiving. Molly enjoyed her visit and even shared one of her favorite books with her!

Happy Birthday!

2007-11-07T06:22:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Mommy! Love, John and Molly

Towty's First Day

2007-11-03T11:02:00.000-04:00

Molly loves to read to Mommy and Daddy, especially AAA's Towty's First Day. Every Thursday evening, Molly and Daddy walk down to the Chartiers-Houston Community Library for story time. The library has a great children's program.

Check out the video to hear her read the story.

Our 'Bug's' First Halloween

2007-10-31T20:52:00.000-04:00

Our little ladybug had a great time trick-or-treating with Daddy. She got a lot of candy and caused quite a buzz with the neighbors. The weather was beautiful and we had a ton of kids stop by. It was a wonderful first Halloween!

I'm ready to go Daddy!

I can put a lot of candy in here!

What a great night!

Army Crawl and Crazy Arms and Legs

2007-10-31T19:56:00.000-04:00

Molly's not fully crawling but gets around by Army Crawling. Also included is a video of her being just plain crazy!

Welcome!

2007-10-27T21:26:00.000-04:00

We would like to welcome you to our blog site. Please add it to your favorites and check in often. Here's a brief update on our little girl...Molly is 9 1/2 months and growing like a weed. She is crawling all over the place and is constantly getting into things she shouldn't. Molly loves books and has about 100 different facial expressions. She enjoys going to story time at the library and has Daddy wrapped around her little finger! Our "bug" keeps us on our toes and makes us laugh on a daily basis. We hope you enjoy looking at our family photos and watching Molly grow!

Fun Fall Days

2007-10-27T20:47:00.000-04:00

On probably the last nice weekend for a while, Molly enjoyed a day in the front yard. She rolled around with some pumpkins and Daddy too! The Houston Pumpkin Festival had their annual parade (that goes right past our house), so we bundled Molly up to watch her first parade and she even got some candy!

Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-27T15:54:00.000-04:00

We went to the pumpkin patch last weekend with Grammy and Pappy. It was a beautiful day and Molly found a pumpkin that was just her size!

Molly's First Halloween Card

2007-10-27T13:02:00.000-04:00

Molly is anxiously awaiting her first Halloween. She's going to be a ladybug and is very excited to go trick-or-treating with Daddy. Molly wants to thank Seamus for her first Halloween card!