The Real Birthday

Ildri's birthday fell on a weekday, which meant it would just be me and her for most of the day. I figured I'd just play the day by ear, and incorporate some of her favorite activities. We decided to go to the library, which has a toddler play area, and enough books to make Ildri go into overdrive. I'm not kidding - every time we're there, she gets a little overexcited and starts pulling book after book off the shelves with this wild-eyed look. She adores books, so seeing that many in one place gets her heart thumping.

Luckily, her dad was able to get out of work early, so he met us at the library. And after her 2nd nap of the day, we broke in the kiddie pool. She loved it! We have used it almost every day since her birthday.

The day was simple, and consisted of lots of extra hugs, and a ridiculous amount of singing "Happy Birthday". I just took so much delight by relishing in my daughter's first year, in her health and development and joy of all she sees. After she went to bed, it was nice to reflect on my own journey through the first year of parenthood. I can't remember a more challenging and heartwarming year.

What a Party!

Mom, I'll play with the toy once I've read the directions. You can't rush these things.

Looks fun, Dad, but how does it taste?

I must say, I never thought I would have so much fun planning and hosting a baby's birthday party. But it was a blast! We had a farm-themed birthday party, due to Ildri's love of the song "Old MacDonald". The attendees dressed up (Uncles Khyle and Erik, Aunt Kirstin, cousin Matthew, Grandma Barb, Grandpa Bill, and Great-Grandma Jane) in their best farm fashions (they even came up with new names on the drive out), including both babies in their Osh Kosh overalls.

We played games (matching sets of pictures to Ildri's age at the time, and recalling details of her birth), opened gifts and had cake. The adults had a barn cake (butter cake with lemon buttercream), and Ildri had her own low-sugar, healthy cake. She really enjoyed it. She ended up with enough toys to keep her playthings different every day of the week. My two favorite gifts: The Happy Birthday Book by Dr. Seuss (because it makes me think of my Grandpa) and a little smock that my own sister used to wear when she was a toddler.

The best part of the day is that it was simple, and revolved around family. Ildri's schedule stayed intact, which made her time with visitors short, but sweet. She had fun and didn't get overwhelmed, which was my main focus. And since Kirstin, Khyle and Matthew came in the night before, so we got lots of time with a "little" baby! All in all, it was a joyous occasion. I can't wait for her 2nd birthday!

After she opened the Little People farm, she climbed on top of the box and stood up. What a silly girl!

And just for fun, I thought I'd include her first picture ever. I can't believe it's been a year since this magical moment.