First Birthday Party

While we were in Roanoke, we had a slightly early birthday party for Madeline so that family and friends who were in the area could join us.

The balloons were much more exciting than the presents :)

Mom and I made her birthday cake together. It was a 4 tier, yellow cake with buttercream frosting and lots of dots.


(In your best singing voice) Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday, dear Madeline. Happy birthday to you!

She hasn't gotten the blowing-out-the-candle thing yet. So, we gave her a little help.

Then, she dug right in like any respecting one-year-old would do.

...mash it around a little...

...give it a taste...

..."do I have to sit here any longer?" Yep, that is as messy as it got. Kind of disappointing, I know. She actually really likes cake, when it is off of our plates. Perhaps she was just a little overwhelmed by the 20 people looking at her.

Madeline had some friends come to her party. Chase, Jude and cousins Will and Abby. She had one more cousin, Austin. But, he is only about a week old, so he couldn't sit on the couch with the other kids yet. Maybe next year. The funny thing about the hats is that they are clearly hats for a first birthday party, hence the big 1 on the front. But, the bag said that they were not appropriate for children under 3. hmmm? So, I am sorry if I put any of your children at risk by putting a hat on them. :)

Then, it was time to open presents! She got lots of wonderful toys.

~2 Melissa and Doug puzzles

~A farm book

~2 Elmo DVDs

~A Little People Noah's Ark, Pet shop and Nativity set (we were excited about Noah getting to visit baby Jesus at the stable.)

~An Elmo washcloth (that expands in the water)

~A See n' Say

~A stuffed Monkey

~Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You? by Dr. Suess

~A cool outfit from Old Navy

~$55

~Mega Blocks

And lastly, a cool rocking chair like Mommy's. It has here name on it as well.

Madeline thanked everyone for her gifts and for coming to her party with big kisses!