A Pictoral Review of Zachary's First Year

Now that Zachary's first year is officially complete, I thought that I would share the monthly pictures that we took - notice how the teddy bear is so huge compared to him in the beginning and now...well, now he thinks that the teddy bear is a wrestling opponent that he rolls all over! It is amazing to me how much he has changed over the year - and how quickly the time goes by!

29 weeks - no teddy bear though! :)

One month old

Two months old

Three months old (Go Gators!)

Four months and counting

Five months old

Six months old - we've now mastered sitting up by ourselves

Seven months old & not too sure about this picture business

Eight months old - we're starting to love the camera!

9 months old (enjoying some outdoor weather!)
10 months old
11 months old - we love to clap!
Yippee - One Year Old!

A New Life Begins!

This has been a week of a few ups and downs - the exciting news first! We'd like to welcome the newest member of our family - Nicholas Christopher was born to Amy's cousin Kim on April 17th. We can't wait to meet Nicholas, and wish for him (and his parents) many happy days and sleepy nights (as soon as possible)!

On another note, Zachary had his first true "run-in" with another child this week when he got bitten 8 times on the back - I guess he looked yummy to her! Zachary seems none-the-worse for wear, so we are relieved with that. Fortunately, we do not need to worry about it happening again as the child will no longer be at the same babysitter. This will be the first of many bumps and bruises over the years, and it could have been worse so we'll count our blessings.

A Nod to the North

During Connie and Dennis' visit here in March for Zachary's first birthday, we took the opportunity to have some family photos with the grandparents. Some of them turned out quite nicely, so thought that I would share them. Pay close attention to the words on Zachary's shirt (in the picture of him by himself)! Transplanted Canadians do love to advertise - but I have yet to find a store that has cute USA-wear, so if anyone knows where to find similar clothes, point me in the right direction!

Continuing on the whole American/Canadian topic - congratulations to Korey who just received his green-card to work in the U.S.!

On a final note - I have to say that having a blog is quite fun - I love reading all of your comments! Our love to all!

The words on his shirt is the point of this particular picture...

Very cute generational picture

All of our smiling faces...

Eight Year Anniversary!

We celebrated our 8th anniversary this week - it is hard to imagine that it was 8 years ago that we stood outside saying our vows - with all of our attendants, including ourselves, sweltering in the 94 degree Floridian sunbath. This year's weather on our wedding day was fabulous - as it should be in April!! Oh well - it was still a wonderful anniversary. :) Thanks to everyone who came to share in our day - and sorry about the heat! Come again to Orlando so that we can show you how lovely it can be - really and truly! :) The 'Z'-Hotel will leave a light on for you!

Zachary's First Birthday

Zachary's first birthday was April 4th - where did the year go!? We threw a birthday party at the park last Sunday for Zachary and Luke Deininger (they are only three days apart in age). People from all parts of the country (Canada, California, the Northeast, and of course Florida) were able to come celebrate with us. The boys were not too excited about the cake and the gift ribbons & envelopes were the most intriguing part of the gift opening (oh well, what can you expect from a 1 year old! :)) But, as you can see, the empty Easter egg (from our Easter egg hunt) was quite the hit by the end of the party with Zachary - by that point he was as filthy as can be but look at that grin!

Zachary and Luke's birthday cakes

Not too sure about this cake business...

Filthy and happy!

Zachary's Dedication

On March 31, we had Zachary dedicated at the Forest Lake Church by Pastor Derek Morris. We were blessed to have many family members and friends present (Amy's mom, Karis' parents, Amy's aunt, the Johnsons, the Deiningers (part 1 and 2), the Heislers and the Pellandinis). Zachary was intrigued by the whole experience, but still managed to stick his finger up his nose (twice!) and started to talk and vibrate his lips during the dedication - much to Amy's dismay! :) We were given a beautiful dedication prayer quilt made by the ladies of the church that has a fluffy teddy bear appliqued to the front - Zachary will definitely love this quilt as he grows.

Our Very First Entry!

Welcome everyone to the Florida "Z" Family blog! We are hoping that this will be a new, fun adventure for us that will allow us to keep in touch in a faster way with all of our loved ones! We've been inspired by our Canadian relatives who long ago started a blog, so we decided to give this a try. We'll be posting pictures and updates of our family - especially of Zachary (the star of the Z Family!) :)