Fiona's First Birthday

Yesterday, Fiona celebrated one year on earth. Despite our attempts to keep things "low key," thanks to our very generous family and friends she woke up to a pile of gifts. Oddly, she seemed to know just what to do. (Proof that we are hardwired for materialism?)

She enjoyed playing with some of her fun new toys from Nana and Boom.

Then we took her to the recently renovated and reopened Academy of Science in San Francisco. This is an amazing place to visit: the sustainably-constructed building houses a mini-rainforest, planetarium, and aquarium. Of course, the aquarium was Fiona's favorite, but the whole experience was a hit. Hopefully these photos will give some idea of her fascination and enthusiasm:

We took a family photo on the Living Roof, which would ordinarily have a nice view of Golden Gate Park were it not for the entirely typical San Francisco fog!

After 4 exhausting hours at the Academy of Science, we headed back home, where Fiona's Grand-Mommy and Grand-Daddy had decorated the house for a princess-themed birthday dinner. And some more gifts....
Because Fiona is a cream cheese fanatic, it seemed only natural that her birthday cake should be a cheesecake. A chocolate cheesecake. This was Fiona's first taste of chocolate. It appeared to be a major hit. The addiction begins....
Fiona fell soundly asleep after this very special day, celebrating a very special first year of life. Soundly asleep, that is, except for occasional yells in response to what we assume were sugar- and caffeine-fueled dreams.

Just to emphasize what a miracle it is to be celebrating this day, here is Fiona exactly one year ago: Thank you all so much for the love and support that you've shown our entire family over the past year. We've been overwhelmed by kindnesses. We're all eagerly looking forward to the coming year!