And then there was ONE...

How did we get from this:

to this?

Lots of laughs, a few tears, lots of growing, playing, exploring, traveling, snuggling, and mostly just love.

How happy and blessed we are to share this little man's life.  We had so much fun planning a little party to  celebrate him.  Thank you to all who came and shared in our joy.
The day before:

wrapping presents...

making cards,

composing a little poem to tell my sweet boy how much he means to us,

 making decorations... we tied balloons to these and used them to hold the tablecloths down.  Thank goodness we had them as it was quite windy!

 baking and decorating the largest cake I've ever made!  Turned out super yummy and we have lots left over to enjoy...just what Best and I need...smile.

Peanut on the morning of his birthday.  Chowing down on some banana pancakes.

 I sewed this little shirt for Peanut after I decided on the Elephant theme...wanted to get a few pics while it was still clean!

 Thank you to Gammie and Papa who brought some tape when my homemade banner lost an "a" right before the party!  Fixed and ready to go!

 Raise your hand if you want cake!

 YUM!

 Gammie and Papa came and gave Peanut a pool with a slide!

 The cousins.  They are so sweet to Peanut and we were so happy to have them there.  They really spoiled Peanut with Elefun, hockey books, and a full marching band set.  Aunt Kiki promises to give Peanut tambourine lessons...we hear she's quite good. 

 My Family.  I celebrate them everyday.

 Aunt Mimi and the Smiths sent Peanut some giant Legos and a cool guitar.  We love all things Elmo!

 Uncle Rob gave Peanut a puppy that is so smart he can spell Peanut's name!  We love to learn!

Our sweet friends the Frenches.  Peanut loves the tug boat they gave him.  Anything to make getting clean more fun!  We are so happy they came and had fun visiting post party at our house.

 Peek-a-boo! New play mat from Mom and Dad.

 Mommy and Daddy gave Peanut some toys and the big gift was his new tunnel and fort!  Mommy was so excited about it that she opened it the night before and almost couldn't get it back in the box...but I did.

      What a fun celebration. We came home and had a nice video chat with Grandma Sharon and Grandpa Chuck.  They sent some toys and a So Big Elmo book with a dvd of them reading it to him.  He watched it after our chat and smiled as they read.  Thanks Mom and Dad.  Peanut also got a sweet card and some birthday money from his Great Grandma Gene.  Thanks Grandma. 

And finally, thank you to all of our friends and family who have helped to make this year so bright and cheery for my little one.  You have shown him how wonderful life is when you share it with people you love.