Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #97

Hello our Vilhelmians! Get ready for exciting updates on Alyce's first birthday, her European family meetups, and fun adventures with the furry gang, Boujee and Dapper! Catch a glimpse into Alyce's amazing week: meeting her European family, taking the train to Toronto, and crossing the border to the US with her own passport - what a little explorer! Join Damian and Katerina as they reflect on Alyce's first year, filled with joy, chaos, and growth, and find out how you can be part of their next chapter - stay tuned for more updates! Boujee and Dapper, the lovable French bulldogs, share their own adventures: snuggling with the Europeans, enjoying Kat's delicious cooking, and lounging at Auntie Sheryl's house - a week of love, fun, and treats!

Tiny Tales from Alyce's Weekly Wonders

Hello, everyone! It’s Alyce, your favorite one-year-old! I just had the most amazing week, and I have to tell you all about it. So, get ready for some serious excitement, because this little girl had a blast!

You see, this week was really, really special. I got to meet the European side of my family for the very first time. Can you imagine? I’ve only seen them on FaceTime until now, and then—BOOM—on my first birthday, they landed right at my house! It was like a scene out of Home Alone—lots of chaos, people everywhere, and so much love! But instead of a burglar, there were lots of hugs and kisses. It was a very full house!

I got to meet Dida Karel and Babi Hana, who are so sweet, but also my uncle and aunt Charli and Tete! You know what was really cool? Tete is almost my height and only five years older than me, so we had the best time playing together. I could copy everything Tete did, and let me tell you, I was so proud of myself! It was like the world was my playground, and Tete was my teacher. What a joy!

I absolutely love being around people, and this week was just one big party of family, laughter, and playtime. I’ll be a little sad when everyone leaves tomorrow, but guess what? I get to visit them in Europe soon and take the plane for the very first time! Can you believe it? I’m already planning my big adventure!

Oh, and talking about firsts, I did a couple of really cool things this week. First, I took the train to Toronto—yup, I’m a train traveler now! And then, guess what? I crossed the border to the United States and visited Buffalo with my very own one-year-old passport! How amazing is that? I’m becoming quite the little explorer, if I do say so myself.

So, that’s it for now. What a week it’s been! Full of love, firsts, and new memories. I’ll be counting down the days until my next big adventure with my family, but for now, I’m soaking in all the love from my European side and preparing for more fun soon!

Big hugs from me, Alyce! 💕

THANK YOU VILHELMIANS!

Hello our Vilhelmians!

Can you believe our little Alyce is already one? Time truly flies! Bringing her home from the hospital feels like a distant memory.

Her birthday party was a whirlwind of joy and chaos, just as we expected! We were so caught up in the excitement of seeing everyone and soaking in the love, that taking pictures almost became an afterthought. It was a beautiful reminder of how precious these moments are – the laughter, the hugs, the simple joy of being together.

We were so sad that Micaela and my cousin Beckman couldn't make it. We missed them terribly! Hopefully, we can figure out a way to include them in Alyce's celebrations next year.

It's amazing how quickly they change. This past week, we've been trying to savor every moment – every cuddle, every giggle, every milestone. We want to cherish these precious memories forever.

This past year has been a rollercoaster, filled with both incredible highs and unexpected challenges. But through it all, we've learned so much and grown as a family. We're incredibly grateful for the support we've received from all of you.

Thank you for the thoughtful gifts – the books, clothes, wooden toys, plush toys (She now has a pony), a teether, a fancy hand puppet, baked goods and a beautiful centerpiece! Your generosity overwhelmed us, and we know Alyce will cherish these memories as she grows older.

Most importantly, thank you for showering Alyce with love and making her feel so special. Your presence in her life means the world to us.

As we move into this next chapter, we're excited to see what adventures await our little family. We hope to continue sharing our experiences with you all, and we always love hearing from you too!

With love,

Damian & Katerina (and of course, Alyce and the furry gang!)

Woof Woof! 🐾

Mon dieu, where do we even begin?! This week has been nothing short of magnifique! Full house, love in every corner, and even more love from our human family. The Europeans (yes, those Europeans) arrived, and it was a full-on celebration of snuggles, treats, and, of course, our pawsitively fabulous selves.

We first met these Europeans last year, and we both have our favorites (although, let’s be real, we love them all... but a little more paw-sidential attention never hurt anyone). But oh là là, Dapper, oh Dapper... he has a soft spot for Dida Karel. The second that man stepped into the house, Dapper practically floated over to him, tail wagging at full speed (which, trust us, is impressive for a Frenchie). He sat right by him, making sure to look as adorable as possible to guarantee all the pets and all the love. I mean, who wouldn't want to shower this face with affection?! C'est parfait!

Speaking of love, let’s talk about Kat's cooking. Mon dieu! That food, it’s so delicious, I almost forget I’m on a diet. Almost. ALMOST! Kat’s cooking has reached next-level French gourmet status—and we French bulldogs know food like no one else. We have standards, you know? Dapper, who never even dreamed of running up the stairs after his morning walk, now waits by his bowl like a patient little prince—ready for le feast to be served. The transformation is real! His morning walks are now like a quick detour, because those breakfast vibes? Sublime!

But let’s not forget our little getaway to Auntie Sheryl's house. Oh, what a blast that was! Cozy windows, a Christmas tree (yes, we are aware it’s not even Christmas yet, but let us have our joy), and all the love you could ask for. We’re talking prime lounging real estate, right by the window, basking in the sun with the world (and Alyce) at our paws. It was an adventure, full of fun, laughter, and plenty of cozy naps. And the best part? We got to feel like royalty, just as we should!

This week, my dear friends, was one for the books. Filled with so much love, attention, and deliciousness that even our little paws are tired. But we wouldn't have it any other way, because after all, love is all we need... and maybe a few extra treats. But that’s just a minor detail.

Now, we’re going to nap and dream of more adventures, Christmas trees, and delicious meals. Until next time, mes amis!

With love,
Boujee & Dapper
Your humble, adorable, and totally lovable French bulldogs