Celebrating One

Noah's birthday last week started out a little bit like last year: at the hospital.

After hours of screaming, none of us could take it anymore, and we headed off to the ER a little before 3 a.m. We knew he had an ear infection, which the doctor confirmed. After only an hour later we were back home, and things were much more calm. It was a sweet moment when my little boy, who has never been a 'rock me to sleep' baby, fell asleep in my arms right at about the exact time he was born the previous year. Despite the exhaustion, it was a sweet, tender gift.

I am so lucky to be his mom.

We gathered our families together on Saturday to celebrate being one.

I kept things pretty simple, but I think it all came together nicely, even the cake.

Which I did photograph outside because it was too dark inside. Go here for details about the cake.

We took a family picture before the partying began,
the camera caught us giving Noah a 'kiss sandwich,'
and, as you can see, he didn't like that at all.

Noah was the perfect cake eater. After a few pokes at the frosting, he dug right in.
I was surprised how clean he kept his face.
He is, after all, the kid who uses his hair for a napkin, remember?
He definitely loves cake and making a mess.
Toys, books and clothes all made for perfect gifts. This little guy sure is spoiled.
I made a ravioli pasta bake for dinner, since ravioli are a Noah favorite.
Noah spent the rest of the evening playing with one family member after another and trying out his new toys. He's a big fan of the tunnel.