Still Celebrating

Am I still talking about Em turning one?  Well, yes, I am.  She is that special.  She deserves weeks of recognition.

Yes, she had two birthday parties, and they were perfect.  Yes, she had two beautiful dresses and headbands and shoes and even a wand.  But those days weren't her actual birthday.  Her actual birthday was sandwiched somewhere in the middle.  On the actual anniversary of the date of her birth (which was 18 days early, mind you!), Em woke up and spent the morning at Grammy's house.  After lunch, we got in the car and drove home to see Daddy, but before we got there, we had one stop to make.  The playground for her first time on the swings.  On her very first birthday.

We had a fantastic time.  Must be just plain old giddiness from sunshine and green grass and playing at a playground.  A beach.  No ice.  No snow.  Blue skies and blue water and big old smiles.

 The kids explored the playground and attempted new feats-- 

--while I played a fun new game called Try Not To Let Either Kid Break Their Neck.

And right before it was time to head home and see Daddy, we headed down to the lake.

 The dock was pulled in and was begging for child exploration.

It was perfectly safe, I assure you (Grammy).

And super fun.  Especially after three hours in the car.

They played together, something which is becoming more common lately.  She follows him and he doesn't always think that's the worst thing.  Now that she's one, apparently that's good enough.

Even if she is only wearing one shoe.

No worries.  We eventually found it.

Then home to see Daddy and Baxter, have birthday dinner (no cake), and take a much needed bath.  She was worn out and needed her rest to continue the birthday extravaganza week.  As you know, the celebrations just kept on coming!



And that, I think, will be the end of Em's birthday celebration for 2011.  She'll only turn one once, but it was worth celebrating over and over.  I am most definitely one of those think big! parents.  And when it comes to making my kids feel special and loved, I've got it covered.  From beginning to end.

Happy Birthday, little one.  I'm glad we made you smile.