It's Party Time!

November 22, 2013 was an exciting day for us. I had no idea that the same day, one year later would be almost as much fun! I wasn't expecting to enjoy the day as much as I did. It was perfect...we enjoyed the day with family and a few cameos from friends.

 Her first guest arrived just as she woke up from her nap and Lily was so excited to see her best bud, Addie!

I didn't do much in the form of decorations but I am so glad I picked up balloons, she loved them! We started the party with a little play time.

Just in case anyone forgot she was turning ONE

One of the best parts of the day was watching as the kids played. Shelly came into town with her family and it was so sweet to watch them together!

The birthday girl and all her cuteness!

It's hard to get a good, clear picture of her smiling, but this one really captures her excitement!

My mom did a wonderful job on the cakes. As usual, she surpassed my requests, the pink cake and pink sprinkles made it even more perfect!

My little foodie didn't disappoint. She was more polite that I expected; she started taking small bites then the "num, num, num" started!

There was plenty to go around so Anacapri shared in the tasting.

I can't forget about the clean up crew!

Sharing with Daddy!

Then things started getting messy.

Nice job Lil!

After a quick bath she was back for more birthday fun! 

And some streaking!!!

 Nakey cousins! 

Poor Anacapri spilled something on her shirt on the trip up so she spent most of the party shirtless, but she made sure Lily had on a diaper on before she would take her for a ride in the (baby dolls) stroller!

Soon she was back in her clothes and ready for presents!

After a little rest with Daddy!

How can my baby be a year old?! The days leading up to her birthday brought mixed emotions. I wanted to celebrate her happiness and health, but my heart ached at the thought of her inching towards independence. I know each day brings more love and more pride so I will look forward to the future and never forget all of the wonderful experiences of the last year. 

Baby Mine

Here she was a year and four days ago. It doesn't cross my mind as much as it used to but that was her; the flipping, wiggly little baby in my belly was Lily! The thought of it still gives me chills…the wonder of life.

 Years ago, my Dad turned me onto Allison Krauss' version of the song Baby Mine, and it always reminded me of him. Pat started playing it in the hospital when Lily was born and again on repeat when we brought her home. I would play it to calm her during her first few weeks and the words took on a meaning for me. It is now Lily's song...

Baby mine, don't you cry.

Baby mine, dry your eyes.

Rest your head close to my heart,

never to part, baby of mine.

Little one, when you play,

don't you mind what they say.

Let your eyes sparkle and shine,

never a tear, baby of mine.

If they knew sweet little you,

they'd end up loving you too.

All those same people who scold you,

what they'd give for the right to hold you.

From your head down to your toes,

you're not much goodness knows.

But, you're so precious to me,

sweet as can be, baby of mine.

 This little lady has brightened every single one of my days for the last year. She is spunky, sweet, funny, temperamental, stubborn, smart and getting cuter everyday! Even after all this time, I still can’t believe she is mine. I am so thankful for my healthy, happy baby girl!