Celebrating the Big 1.0

Clara's first birthday party was today.  It was fun to gather our closest friends and family together to celebrate her.  

I'm especially thankful for Ryan and Crystal and Clayton, Amanda, and Zoe who came down early to hang out and help set everything up for our Sunday afternoon party.  It was so nice to have some help, and fun to spend some time together.  Ryan and Clayton were brave enough to take the babies to the World Bird Sanctuary while the ladies stayed back to decorate and prep food.

These are some pictures (taken by Ryan), from the excursion.  

Clara just starting pointing this week.  She picked up this "one-year-old skill" on her birthday.  

Click the image to enlarge.  It's pretty funny.

Crystal paused us to take a family photo together before the party started.  I'm glad she did!

 Clara "bashed" a cupcake for our entertainment.  She was slow to dive in, but once she had a taste of the cream cheese icing, she got pretty excited.  She vigorously shoveled it into her mouth, hand over hand, until only a clean cupcake was left.  That wasn't quite as interesting to her, but she did naw on it a bit.

Having fun playing in icing.  ...oh, and I confiscated the cake, she didn't eat it all...

It was a delight to be surrounded by family and friends.  We are so incredibly blessed by the people God has placed in our lives.  Thanks to everyone who came or sent your wishes!  :)