Family

I love this picture with my mom...three generations.

And of the grandparents - Papa, Mimi, Grams and Opa - who also happen to be friends. We are so blessed.

Playtime

Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? - Mary Oliver
Anna loves to play. And she's really really good at it.

I ask you, what else is a one-year old supposed to be doing with her time anyway?

But play. It's how she learns. And she's a pro. For instance, she pushes this puppy all over the house. Very proudly, I might add.

Oh ya, and her buddy likes it too.

Grams and Opa were here visiting. She loves playing with her Opa.

The feeling's mutual. 

Grams and Opa watched her take four steps BY HERSELF while I was out running errands. I can't believe I missed it! 

She's a little monkey too. Climbing all over things.

Well, hello there, beautiful girl.

Girls Night in Newport

For the very first time, I was away from my little girl for more than a few hours. An overnight with "the girls." We stayed at an adorable Inn on Thames and had a fabulous time. The itinerary was simple: shopping, dinner at 22 Bowen and drinks at The Clarke Cooke House. Happy Birthday to us.

We ended our little getaway on the Cliff walk.

Love Newport.

A HUGE thank you to Mimi and Papa for coming down to spend time with Anna and Da-da. Anna had a ball. I have to say, we are pretty darn fortunate to have such a loving and supportive family. And Anna is one lucky girl to have her grandparents. I count my blessings. Thank you.

Purr-fect Friends

Anna and Callie have developed a relationship. Anna chases Callie, wakes her up from naps and gives her treats in her bed, such as --- a shoe. And Callie would never admit it, but she kinda likes the attention. Here they are sharing some chips.

Anna walking with her radio flyer

Apples & Anniversaries

It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life.
- P. D. James

September kicked off with lots of fun fall festivities and family gatherings. And a few of Anna's "firsts." Like apple picking at Maple Lane Farm, with Mimi and Papa.

And being pushed in the little red cart by Papa.

And meeting a great big beautiful horse. For the first time. I know she just wanted to reach out and hug him.

We loaded up our cart with a big bucket of Macs. 

and a baby.

 

 

Anna's first Art in the Park tour...

And a visit to Daddy's old golf course, Bretwood. Where he learned the game.

The grand finale was a visit to Stonewall Farm to see the horses and cows. Oh and to sample yummy homemade ice cream. Another Anna first. 

And a walk around Keene's quaint downtown. She was taking it all in, laughing and pointing at the passers-by. 

Welcome, Autumn.

An Island Anniversary

Here's to us. Good people are scarce. - Eva Read
Anna's "Grandparents #3" celebrated their golden Anniversary. With a beautiful party their children hosted on the island. A special occasion it was.

A tender moment - Anna & Mammie - the eldest and the youngest together. Lots of love was in the air.

"Your life is an island separated from all other islands and continents. Regardless of how many boats you send to other shores or how many ships arrive upon your shores, you yourself are an island separated by its own pains, secluded in its happiness” -Kahlil Gibran

The last time Anna was on Nantucket was almost a year ago in September for another special celebration - Aunty Mandy and Uncle Alex's wedding. Although this time she was wee bigger than her four-week newborn self. And what a happy baby she was to be there.

We stayed with Aunt Paddy and Uncle Shane - guys, your home is beautiful.

Well, hello, happy view...

Mother Nature blessed us with four sunny days as we breathed in the salt kissed air, strolled around town and visited with loved ones. All while making family memories with our baby girl. It doesn't get any better than that.

Anna and Daddy on the steamship coming home.

Oh little island, I love you so...