Officially a toddler

Well today Brie got her first official walking shoes. She picked out a cute and probably the most expensive pair of sneakers that she could find at stride rite today. Of course Brie inherited mommy's expensive taste. She looks like such a big girl walking in her new sneakers.

Last night we went to the official meeting to kick of the march of dimes walk in our area. Brie had a ball walking all over and meeting the other children. She also met up with her boyfriend Anthony. The had fun chasing a ball around the room and playing with balloons. It was nice to exchange ideas with other parents and to hear stories of other children who were born prematurely. We are looking forward to walking this year to raise money to prevent prematurity and birth defects.

Brie had a good Easter. We spent the day at Nanna and Pop's house. Brie had fun collecting Easter eggs outside and playing with her cousins, Brandon and Christian. She got lots of new books for Easter and enjoys reading them with mommy and daddy.

Our little walker- almost

Brie is moving forward with walking. Today she walked from the coffee table to the loveseat without falling. It was about 4-5 steps. She was very proud of herself. I don't think it will be long and she will be walking completely independently. She is completely recovered from her pneumonia and has been very happy lately. Since this last illness she has gotten more cuddly. She loves to give hugs and kisses. She hugs all of her toys, even elmo who has kicked her a few times.

Yesterday Brie had her second birthday party. Despite not having an afternoon nap she did wonderfully. I don't think she cried or fussed the entire day. She loved all of the attention. Many of our friends were there from college and we got to meet all of the new babies. It was great to see everyone. We have been secluded from everyone because of Brie's preemie status and are hoping that Brie stays healthy after all of the visiting.

Mommy is starting to get Cabin fever. I cannot wait for the weather to warm up so I can take Brie to the pool and the park. Today we went for a walk and although it was a little chilly Brie seemed to enjoy it.

Brie's first birthday pictures

Brie's first birthday party slideshow

Brie's first birthday party

Gabrielle had a wonderful time on her first birthday. Despite not having a good nap all day she was in good spirits. She went to everyone and enjoyed playing with family and friends. She is still coughing, but she did not let that get in the way of all of her crawling and "walking." Brie will now take 2-3 independent steps before falling down. She got some wonderful presents for her birthday and we spent the evening playing with them before getting settled in for the night.

Because of her pneumonia, Brie lost weight this last week. She was down almost a full pound. We did weigh her tonight and she was 16 lbs 3.5 oz and 26.5 inches. We are hoping that since she is feeling better she will gain back what she has lost quickly.