Party time! Excellent!

We had a wonderful time celebrating June Apple's birthday, albeit one week early. We invited all the friends and family who have done so very much for us this past year. Before June was born, I didn't really *get* 1st birthday parties. I didn't get what the big deal was. But then I had a child and realized not only is your child's first birthday a celebration of the first year of life, but also a celebration for parents who have survived their first year as parents. What a year its been, one which we couldn't have enjoyed as much as we did were it not for the INCREDIBLE support of our friends and family. So many of our friends have babysat for June, while I was in class and Amos had a gig. So many people showered us with love, and baby clothes, and diapers, and encouragement. There must have been nearly 40 people at the party (!) and each and every one of them has played a role in making our lives full and wonderful. And for them, I am grateful. I hoped they liked the cake.

Birthday preparations

I have been quite the busy bee preparing for June Apples 1st (!) birthday party. Its a good thing I haven't had classes, as I have been up late every night this week. When trying to think of how I want to celebrate her special day, I decided I would make some things that we can use every year. For her birthday bunting, I made a banner that can be used for all of our birthdays, and then a special one just for her. Plus, I got to use the awesome dye cutter at school to make the letters. I used fabric from her quilt along with some new fabric I picked up. And then there was her birthday crown. I have several friends who have made these for their children, and its a sweet tradition I am excited to start. She'll get to wear it every year and I will add a button every year to mark how old she is. The crown was made out of wool felt. Both the buntings and the crown were a lot of fun to make, as I reflected on what a year its been and what a treasure she is. Here are some pictures of my projects in progress:

 

 June picks out her favorite material for the projects

 Bunting

 Crown

Fun with the dye cutter!

Stay tuned for pics from the party!

First Christmas

Although June is unlikely to have clear memories of her first Christmas, we sure will! Amos and I can understand why people keep having children, because it means that you get to prolong the magic of the season for years to come. We began finding small ways to start and/or continue traditions, such as buying a Christmas book to read in the days leading up to the 25th, visiting Santa, making bourbon balls, and of course, a visit from our friend, Amrinder the Elf. It was wonderful having a much needed break from school, work and my internship, and miraculously, I didn't get sick, as I sometimes tend to do when I get a break.All in all, it was a great time, with visits from all of our parents and siblings, as well as good friends. I'll let the pictures do the rest of the talkin'.

 Posing for holiday cards

 June Apple and her ol' pal.

 Waiting for Santa

 Tiny tree for a tiny girl!

 Christmas shopping makes for the best naps

 Bourbon ball making with G.G. Betty and Grandpa

 No bourbon balls for Juju

 Christmas Eve

A visit from Bepop Santa

 

 June's new friend, Tootie

 

 Papaw and Mamaw come for a visit

 Christmas party at Grandpa's