Happy Birthday to our little star – Stella Caterina!

It's hard to believe that three years ago today, this little angel came into our lives. She's been such a joy to us and we are so blessed.


She was beautiful when she was not even two hours old!


Her first birthday in Petoskey


Her big birthday cookie at 2 years old!


Her birthday party at Papa and Grandma Puzzuoli's last week (with her Big Mama).

Today is just a snowy day in Michigan. John says we're getting another "Alberta Clipper." They always blame the snow on the Canadians, it seems!

Stella's getting another birthday cake today, to share with just Mom and Dad. She loves birthday cake. Her godmother Mary Beth sent her a set of wooden instruments, and she's been obsessed all morning with her xylophone, recorder, tambourines, rhythm sticks etc!

Stella's parents are both in bad shape. On Tuesday, the baby dropped into my pelvis in a matter of hours. Up until that point, I didn't feel like I would be having this baby as early as I had Stella, but I might be changing my prediction. And John is just not feeling well in general. We are hoping things hold off until we can get some help next weekend from John's parents ... getting the crib together and getting a few things organized.

She's gotten a lot of great cards, packages and gifts in the mail. She's loving all of that and is sure to have a great day! Happy Birthday to our sweetheart!

All cooped up, dead of winter

It's supposed to be a cold weekend, and not much is going on in our house. We're looking at highs of 12° and 5° on Saturday and Sunday.

John has been taking Stella to the mall so she can stretch her legs and run in the play area. She's been trying to keep herself busy at home and has gotten into books again. She loves to sit at our kitchen table and pour over her books. I say she picked this up from her dad, who's always reading at the table.



Unfortunately, I fell down while getting Stella off the bus yesterday. It was icy and my shoes didn't get good traction. I think I'm okay, but all I need is to move more slowly!

John is taking a photography class at Kellogg Community College so he's trying to beat the winter blues, too. He's got plenty of winter landscapes to choose from. Not only that, but we've got a whole bunch of stuff to put together ... crib, swing, pack & play, etc. So fun! Anyone who wants to come help is welcome ...

I hope everyone has a safe and warm weekend! I hope your Super Bowl team wins!