It's not every day you turn 1!

In the world of social media and Pinterest, I almost feel obligated to throw the most amazing, picture perfect, themed birthday party for my children. We had a grand first party for Madeline.  It was beautiful and fun...and we loved seeing our friends....and I didn't take any pictures...and Madeline didn't nap...and I spent a week making cookies and cakes. But we just didn't find it necessary this time around.I don't  have time to clean every room in our house, make the perfect cake, and assemble the finger foods. And it's exhausting. Birthdays should be fun with a side of relaxing. 

For Amelia's first birthday, we didn't pull out all the stops. Instead, we opted for a small, quiet, and fun celebration. Amelia's favorite people are her family, and we are awfully fond of her. So carving out time to shower her with attention was a perfect way to celebrate her first year of life. 

We were going to set everything up while the girls napped, but Amelia decided that she only wanted a 30 minute nap instead of a 3 hour one. So we put her to work as our cheerleader. When we were setting up the ribbons on the ceiling, she gave us the biggest surprised grin I've ever seen her give. It was priceless. 

Andy set up a small ball pit we have and I wrapped all the presents she received from us, Madeline, and in the mail from family. 

Then we changed into our birthday best, slipped on the traditional birthday crown, and waited for Madeline to wake up. 

Madeline was ecstatic with the party atmosphere, but we started right away with the cake. We ate yummy strawberry muffins sans frosting, so it wasn't exactly cake. But we shoved them in our mouths without complaining. And then it was time to open the gifts!!

"Hello?"

Her face in print, entitled "Amelia Goes to Florida." It was made with Pint Size Productions. We love making and giving these books. 

Gifts from Madeline...love it! The ribbon and wooden beads are a necklace Madeline made. The stacking rings were something we already own, but Madeline picked them out weeks ago to give to Amelia for her birthday. The tape we found in our "stuff" basket when we were gift hunting. Madeline decided it would be a perfect Amelia present. 

When the birthday girl was so tired she couldn't sit up, we quickly wrapped things up for an afternoon nap. All in all, we had a lovely, low key time. That little girl was spoiled with time and attention...a gift I hope to give her every birthday.