People often (like, every day) tell you to "cherish each moment...it goes by so fast." But boy are they right! This year has been the fastest year of our lives. I seriously still remember ordering grilled cheese FOR EVERY MEAL while we were at the hospital with her like it was just last week. (Grilled cheese sounds really good right now. Thank you, memory.) Now she's running around the house on her own two feet, giving me fits when we have to put shoes on, developing her own personality with a cute little laugh on the side, eating everything in sight, brushing her 4 teeth with us at night, and imitating every. single. thing. that we do - which has put lots of things in perspective, if I do say so myself!
I can't believe we've been given this gift. She gives me a new purpose and love for life - refining what is true and most important, even in the every day. She is the sweetest, cutest, funniest, most joyful little girl. I could go on for days on what I love about her. Matt and I are so grateful for the role we've been given in being her parents. She really has made this life so much sweeter.
Here are a few (hundred) photos from her birthday celebration. I started planning this little shindig when she was about 5 months old. Very pleased with how it all turned out - and so thankful for all the people who celebrated with us. We have the best friends and family out there.
Everyone pitched in to set it all up. We had a half hour to do so...and there was a lot on the list!
My girlfriends helped out with providing almost all of the food. And Matt's mom took care of the cupcakes!
I really wanted to hand make as much for the party as I could. So instead of fresh flowers, I sewed about 20 fabric flowers.
We added some photos of all 3 of us - some even from when Matt and I were a year old!
I also reeeally wanted to make party favors, but because she was only turning a year, I didn't think I had much to work with. BUT...thanks to thrift stores and the plethora of ideas Pinterest, Matt & my dad whipped up some sweet tea cup candles!
The one thing I was most proud of? I made her birthday dress all by myself. Almost gave up about 6 times, but I'm glad I hung in there.
Onto the cake...I was pretty proud of her. Though she is very neat (like her dad) she managed to get a little messy.
she was so excited to have her meemaw & peepaw there. she has the best grandparents!
And lastly, the gifts. This girl made out great on her big day!
We love you, Emery girl!
Can't believe you are SO BIG!
***Photos by Kristin Uhrinek***
