Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #86

How To Villlhelllm: How do You even Spell It?

Tiny Tales from Alyce's Weekly Wonders

Hi everyone, it’s me, Alyce! Can you believe I’m going to be 10 months old next week? That means I’m getting super close to being ONE YEAR OLD! I can hardly believe it myself—time really flies when you’re having this much fun growing, playing, and discovering the world. And you know what happens when you turn one, right? Party time!

But wait, wait, wait! I’ve got some BIG news to share that makes my first birthday even more special. Dida Karel and Babi Hana have surprised me with the BEST birthday gift I could have ever asked for. They’re coming all the way to Canada to celebrate my first birthday with me! And they’re not coming alone—Tete and Uncle Charlie will be joining too!

Can you believe it? It’ll be the first time I get to meet them in person. I’ve only ever seen them on video calls, but soon, I’ll be able to give them real-life hugs and bisous (that’s kisses in French, by the way!). I just know it’s going to be so much fun. I’ve heard so many wonderful things about my grandparents, and I can’t wait to make some amazing memories together. Plus, with Tete and Uncle Charlie joining the celebration, it’s going to be even more special. I’m already dreaming about the laughs, the games, and maybe even a little dancing—I am getting pretty good at my baby wiggles!

Now, I can’t talk about fun without mentioning my furry besties, Boujee and Dapper. They’ve been by my side through all my adventures, and I know they’re just as excited as I am for the big birthday bash. Boujee has been practicing her “cool Frenchie” poses for the camera, and Dapper—well, he’s finally back on his paws after his bed rest. He’s been extra snuggly lately, and I’m sure he’s going to give Dida, Babi, Tete, and Uncle Charlie lots of puppy love too. We’re one big happy pack, and it’s going to be so awesome to have even more family in the mix.

Speaking of new things, I’ve got a little message for my dad—Dad, I’m growing so fast, and I’m on the move! I’ve started crawling, and now I can get from one side of the room to the other. You better get ready, because soon I’ll be walking, and then there will be no stopping me! I love you so much, and I can’t wait to show you all the cool things I’m learning. I just know we’re going to have even more fun together as I keep growing and exploring the world.

So, the countdown is officially on—one more month until my big first birthday! I’m so excited to celebrate with all the people (and pups) I love, and I can’t wait to see what fun surprises are in store. It’s going to be a day full of love, laughter, and maybe even a few extra treats for Boujee and Dapper. After all, they deserve to join in on the celebration too!

Until then, I’ll be practicing my crawling (and maybe even trying to take a few steps!). The party of the year is coming, and I couldn’t be happier to celebrate with my family—both near and far!

With so much baby love,

Alyce 💕

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The Leap into Toddlerhood: Embracing New Adventures

Hello our Vilhelmians!

As the crisp fall air settles over Hamilton, we find ourselves embarking on a new adventure. Let us share with you our latest escapades in the world of parenting.

This past week has been quite the adventure! After my trip to India, I returned to a new reality: Alyce is no longer just a baby; she’s officially a toddler! For eight months, Katerina and I had settled into a comfortable routine filled with cuddles and feedings. However, everything changed when I received a video of Alyce’s first crawl while I was away. It was magical—she sat up, leaned forward, and off she went! This marked the beginning of a whole new chapter in our lives.

As we navigate this transition, I find myself grappling with the bittersweet nature of parenting. Many colleagues had warned me about missing the small moments, and now I understand their sentiment deeply. Each time we master one stage, another challenge arises. Our once baby-proofed home has transformed into an obstacle course for our intrepid explorer.

In our quest to understand this new phase, we've turned to child development research. Studies show that children’s minds are remarkably capable from an early age, developing theories to make sense of their surroundings. The first three years are critical for brain development; early experiences significantly influence cognitive and socioemotional outcomes. A nurturing environment is essential for shaping a child's brain during this formative period.

Reflecting on our parenting journey, I’ve been considering the sacrifices we make in pursuit of the lives we envision. Is this how life unfolds in Western culture? To achieve what we desire, do we have to relinquish what we truly need? While I don’t have all the answers yet, Alyce—our little Madame—is thriving. She’s crawling, standing up in her crib, and calling out to us with her adorable babbles.

Despite the challenges of balancing careers and parenting responsibilities, the rewards are immeasurable. Watching Alyce grow and seeing her mind work as she explores brings a joy unlike any other—a different kind of thrill compared to any festival experience. We're learning to embrace each adventure, knowing that we'll never be fully prepared but will always be ready to learn and grow alongside our little hero.

Before we go, a quick note about our beloved Hamilton: We discovered a charming new café, Café Hess, perfect for family outings. Also, Don’t miss the Fall Garden & Mum Show from October 4 to 13, showcasing the beautiful autumn colors our city has to offer.

Until our next adventure,

Damian & Katerina

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Woof Woof! 🐾

Ah, les amis! Boujee here—your stylish, sophisticated, and ever-so-chic Frenchie correspondent. And Dapper, the debonair gentleman, is lounging nearby, preparing to share his refined perspective (when he wakes up from his nap, of course). But let’s dive into the latest, because, mon dieu, there’s so much happening in our little Frenchie world!

First of all, good Lord this weather! I mean, honestly, can someone please tell Mother Nature that it’s time to cool it? Fall is taking its sweet time like it's at a Parisian café sipping espresso. We’ve been waiting forever for those crisp autumn breezes, perfect for our legendary fall walks. You know, the ones where I strut my stuff and Dapper—well, bless him—tries to keep up. We’re ready for Frenchie weather, where the sun is polite, and the squirrels are slow enough for a proper chase.

Speaking of adventures, Alyce is zooming around the house like a mini Tour de France champion, and Dapper and I are here for every little wiggle. We’ve got a front-row seat to her action-packed crawling tour. She’s not quite chasing squirrels yet, but give her time.

And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like watching Alyce’s moves. One minute she’s on one side of the room, and the next, she’s plotting her next great escape. Dapper and I have become her personal entourage, her royal guards, if you will. I keep an eye out for any potential squirrel sightings through the window while Dapper plays the role of *le pillow*. You know, for moral support.

Now, onto the big news. Mais non, not the crawling... THE PARTY. Oh là là, have you heard about the big event coming up? No? Well, I suppose I could let you in on the secret, but then again… should we keep it under wraps for now? Just imagine: cake, balloons, and all the attention on madame, madame. Alyce’s first birthday is going to be magnifique. But shh, let’s keep it hush-hush for now. You didn’t hear it from us, okay? We Frenchies are excellent at keeping secrets. Well, Dapper not so much… but he tries.

And that’s not all! Tete is coming to visit! Dapper has been wagging his little butt in excitement. He’s been reminiscing about their last encounter like it was a rom-com —they were best friends. You should’ve seen it. He followed her everywhere, stared into her eyes like she was his long-lost love, and I swear, if he could’ve written her poetry, he would have. But I digress—he’s ready for round two of their epic friendship. I’m just here to look fabulous, as always, but Dapper… oh boy, Tete’s in for a reunion of grand proportions.

So, as we eagerly await cooler weather and prepare for what’s bound to be the party of the year, we’re also on Alyce-crawl-watch 2024 and gearing up for Tete’s arrival. Life in the Frenchie household is busy, and mon dieu, do we love it!

Until next time, stay chic, chase those squirrels (metaphorically, of course), and remember: we may be small, but we are très important.

Bisous from Boujee (and a sleepy snore from Dapper).

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Thank you, dear Vilhelmians, for following our adventures! We appreciate your support and would love for you to join our awesome Substack community. Hit that like button, subscribe, and get ready for a wild ride with us! Vilheeeeeelm!