Pink Holidaze

How we celebrated her day. It was fun to get everything ready for a little birthday breakfast the night before.  We put balloons in her room to wake up to.   My expectations: wake up to daughter in monitor squealing in delight when she sees balloons.  Reality:  She kind of noticed they were there. The number balloons are HUGE.  Holy cow.  It barely fits in the doorway.  { Party City , btw...thanks, Mayumi!} Birthday pancakes. No need to blow out the candles before eating. Absolute delight when singing Happy Birthday to her.  That was fun.  I love her smile in that picture.  She also really liked these milk bottles { Shop Sweet Lulu } to drink from.  So did her shirt. Spent some time with my dad and the chickens.  "I wike chickens," she told him. Then, opening gifts.  She was a little confused whether it was Christmas or her birthday.  She also requested to watch "Elmo Saves ...

Today.  Your 2nd Birthday. Wow.  Just two years ago right now we were in the hospital, after what seemed like years of waiting for you.  I was in labor , and just about three hours away from your arrival.  And then the world changed, in the best of ways.  Miss Eloise, you have continually been the greatest joy and the most amazing blessing to us.  Our love for you is as deep as the ocean, as wide as the world is round.  Vast beyond measure, and only growing.  It's a visceral, gut-wrenching love.  No matter what you do, this will never, ever change.  You have given me the tiniest glimpse into the intensity of God's love for us, and for that I'm so thankful.  I've seen this quote around...I have no idea where it came from (I should look that up), but it says, "You are our greatest adventure."  That's so true.  Nothing compares.  You are so fun and such a delight.    And currently, such a pistol. ...

I keep forgetting about this hilarious photo of Eloise.  She was so much smaller and her hair was all spiky, but it's obvious her personality hasn't changed at all. :)

She is growing up WAY, way too fast.  I can barely handle it. {Photos taken by my mother-in-law yesterday}

Our toddler, in all her glory, hugging her pup.

Here are some more photos of Eloise's first birthday party!  We had so much fun celebrating and it was exciting to see her enjoy the festivities!  I still can't believe over a year has already passed since she was born .  For the party, I decided not to go with a theme, but basically to stick to "pink and shimmer" so I could have room to improvise if needed.  My mom did almost all of the food and drinks, making it pretty low stress and fun, especially on the day of.  :)  Thanks to Joyce for capturing the day!  All sources used are at the end of the post!   Invitations: Block Children's Party from Minted in Raspberry and white Ice Cream Tutu Dress:   Mudpie from Brea's Boutique Baby Crown:  Made by my aunt ( inspiration here , pattern here ) Pink Shoes: Pickles light pink Convertible Cupcake Bib: Rosalina Ruffle Cake Directions: Marth...

Just a little peek into Eloise's first birthday party with some photos from lovely Joyce , yet again. I can't wait to show you all more!  Eloise had a great time and it was amazing to celebrate her first year (wowza.) with our family and friends!  :)