Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #83

How To Villlhelllm: How do You even Spell It?

Tiny Tales from Alyce's Weekly Wonders

Hi everyone! It's me, Alyce, and guess what? I just turned 9 months old! Can you believe it? That means I’ve been out in the big world for as long as I was in my mommy’s belly. What a journey so far—so many things to explore, so many fun moments, and oh, so much love around me!

Now, let me tell you what’s been happening this week. First of all... these teeth! I’ve got two new ones coming in at the top, and they’re sharp! My grandpa, Dida Karel, calls them my "vampire" or "shark" teeth, which is funny but also…ouch! Growing these teeth is not a walk in the park. Thankfully, Mom and Dad always have Tylenol ready to help me feel better, so I can keep smiling and playing like I love to.

Speaking of big kid stuff, I had to sit through some grown-up Zoom calls this week. Yep, Mommy and Daddy are looking for someone special—a nanny! It was fun watching all the faces on the screen, but sometimes those calls got a little too long for my liking. I had to entertain myself and make sure everyone knew I was there too! I can't wait to see who my new buddy will be when Mommy goes back to work.

Oh, oh! Something super exciting—I've learned how to sit up all by myself! I can go from all fours to sitting and back onto my belly, which means I have more time to play in my crib when I’m not quite ready for my nap. It's so fun to just sit and explore my toys, getting ready to tire myself out.

And some more good news—my BFF, Dapper, is feeling better! We’re back to our morning walks as a family, and I couldn’t be happier.

That’s it for now! Life is so good, and I’m just loving every minute of it.

Lots of love,
Alyce 💕

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Embracing the Little Moments: A Heartwarming Night with Alyce

Hello our Vilhelmians!

As fall sweeps through Hamilton, Ontario, the crisp morning air and changing leaves remind us of the beauty of togetherness. The weather has been pleasantly mild, perfect for cozy morning walks with Boujee and Dapper, and relaxed evenings spent at home.

This week, I had a heartwarming yet bittersweet moment that truly stayed with me. After a long, exhausting day, I collapsed on the couch post-dinner, hoping for some rest. But as the night wore on, I found myself longing for comfort—a hug that would melt away the stress of the day. When I entered the bedroom, I stirred Dapper and Boujee, which woke Katerina and Alyce.

I asked Kat if Alyce could join us in bed, and she happily agreed. As I reached for Alyce, she gave me a small smile but, true to her nature, kept her distance. I’ve noticed that Alyce isn’t much of a cuddler, which honestly surprises me. I always expected that she’d love curling up in my arms, but she’s more of a “please keep your distance” kind of little one. I wonder if it has anything to do with us needing to swaddle her during those first few months. It’s something I think about often as she grows into her own independent personality.

Even though she didn’t snuggle in close, having her nearby brought a sense of peace. Her tiny hand reached for mine, and in that moment, the weight of the day seemed to float away. It was one of those perfect little moments where everything just feels right. That is, until her toddler energy decided to join the party! Before I knew it, Alyce transformed from a peaceful angel into a tiny ninja—kicking, rolling, and somehow managing to take up more space in the bed than two fully grown adults. I’m still not sure how someone so small can claim so much territory.

Kat, of course, gave me that knowing look she’s perfected over the years—equal parts humor and a little "I knew it"—and asked with a laugh, “Still think this was a good idea for a restful night?” I tried to laugh it off, but by 3 AM, I was seriously considering setting up some kind of pillow fortress just to get a few inches of breathing room!

Despite the toddler chaos, waking up in the early morning light and seeing her peacefully dreaming beside us (finally stationary!) made it all worth it. She was at arm’s length, yes, but in that moment, it didn’t matter. Her tiny face, so calm and serene, was the sweetest reward for the sleepless night. And, truth be told, I wouldn’t trade those little kicks and rolls for anything—well, maybe just a little more sleep!

These moments of connection, no matter how small or unexpected, are what truly matter. Wishing you all warmth, joy, and togetherness as you embrace this beautiful season!

With gratitude,

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Woof Woof! 🐾

Bonjour, les amis! It’s me, Boujee, the chic French bulldog, here to bring you the most incroyable update of the week. Dapper is BACK! That’s right—after being “grounded” in his bed for days, crying like a little bébé because he felt "so" alone, Dapper is officially on the mend and strutting his stuff on walks again.

Now, I’m going to admit something very un-Boujee-like… I felt sad too. I mean, sure, Dapper and I don’t need to be joined at the hip (a girl needs her space), but let’s face it—he’s always by my side, even when he’s not. Know what I mean? Like, I missed him always being there for me to... well, ignore. Plus, no Dapper = no squirrel chasing, no family walks, and absolutely NO drama! It was tragic, vraiment.

But now that he’s back? It’s like the world has returned to order. Dapper is Dapper-ing again, tail wagging, doing his little prance, and we’re back in the game of life. Our morning walks have resumed, and let me tell you, the squirrels? They should be trembling. We’re a force once more.

Now, let’s talk about our new invention. Dapper and I have mastered the art of lounging at home. We’ve officially claimed the front window as our turf. Not just any spot—oh no, this is VIP-level lounging. I, Boujee, have found a cozy little spot under the sofa, right where the sunlight hits perfectly. I call it the "French Riviera" of the room. Dapper? He joins me, of course, and we bask in the glory of the sun like two miniature gods getting our last Frenchie tan in before the chill of fall arrives.

I mean, come on, who needs a beach when you have a perfectly placed sunbeam right at home? Très chic, non? We’ve got our bronzing routine down to a science. Soon, it’ll be “Frenchie weather” (aka sweater season for les bouledogues), and we’ll have to say goodbye to the sunbathing until next year. But for now, we are glowing.

So, voilà, what a week! Dapper’s back on his paws, we’ve reclaimed our favorite lounging spot, and life is looking pretty magnifique once more. Here’s to more walks, more squirrels, and a few more sunbaths before autumn brings its chilly air!

Au revoir, les chéris!
Boujee (& Dapper, the comeback king)  

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