Birthday Celebrations

We had so much fun celebrating Miss Clara over her birthday. We started the long weekend when Grandpa Jerry arrived on the 4th. Don't let his relaxed look in this picture fool you. Brad soon put him to work digging out the hill in our backyard and building a retaining wall to go with our new deck. They worked HARD in the 100 degree heat!

We had a birthday party for her on Saturday and were blessed to have lots of family and friends join us. Clara was a little intimidated by all the people in her house, but she warmed up pretty quick. Check on the cake pops my mom made...I think she should go into business.

Clara was a little slow to start in on her cake, but once she got started, she couldn't believe we let her play with such a mess! A little frosting made it in her mouth...and on Brad...and on the floor :)

That night the heat finally broke and we got to go outside and enjoy. Clara and her cousin played with her new water table and the adults got some fresh air!

We opened a few gifts closer to her actual birthday on the 11th. Like most kids, she liked the envelopes and the wrapping paper the most.

It was fun to take the time to remember back to a year ago and everything we've learned in our first year of parenting Clara. We are so thankful for the gift that she is. Thanks to all who helped us celebrate!