Our Three Girls: April 2014

I truly can not believe a year has passed since Mallory came into our lives. What a blessing. I think back to last year and that crazy day when she surprised us by coming almost a month early. I think of watching Nicole and Allyson fall in love with their baby sister and how they've grown to care for and protect her. There are so many memories and so much to celebrate.

They say first birthday parties are unnecessary. We had a wonderful party filled with family and friends for Nicole's first. But, without grandparents and cousins here, we didn't have anything more than cake for Allyson's first. And, it was fine. We were so grateful my parents could be here and that made it special! But I look back and wish I had done some kind of party. So, for Mallory, that's what we did.

My friend, Katie, is a photographer and she came with camera in hand. These are just some pre-party pictures and a few videos we took. I'll share more when I get Katie's pictures!

The night before her party!

Cuddling my one-year-old for the first time

A birthday morning song from her sisters

As you entered the front door

Favors were baby food jars. Britt spray painted the lids pink. I added jelly beans inside and tied some tulle around the top with a "thank you" tag. We also had water bottles with Mallory's name or "Happy 1st Birthday" written on them.

Walking into the living room

I found a baker who made these little "smash cakes" for just $7!! And, almost exactly like the Pinterest picture I showed her. I loved the cupcakes she did, too. Each a little different.

We used mason jars for glasses and served raspberry lemonade.

It's hard to see the straw flag but the pink ones say "Mallory."

The blue ones just say, "Happy Birthday."

The lighting wasn't very good. Hopefully Katie will have better pictures.

We served chicken salad sandwiches, chips and veggies. (I would normally do an afternoon "cake and ice cream" party but, since it was a church day we had to do an evening party so Mallory could get a good nap.)

For the Birthday Girl

The baker made her a special cupcake so she could get messy.

(The other cakes were fondant which doesn't lend itself to "messy.")

About to go to her party. (Just woke up.)

Mallory and Blake.

Our friend, Jon Vint, was playing Peek a Boo behind Katie's back trying to get a smile. It didn't work. Mommy tried. It didn't work. Nicole came down and was able to get one from her.

Singing Happy Birthday to Mallory. So precious.

Time to cut the cake!

She didn't really care for the cake.

(I know… but her sisters will teach her the way)

Time for presents!

From Nana and Papaw (via Amazon)

(Forgive all the talking… it really was chaotic!)

We were all shocked that Mallory figured out her walker so soon! She has shown zero interest in walking. I'm not necessarily ready for that yet … just thought it would be good to have for a few months down the road. Oops. It wasn't even all put together yet and she was taking off!

I love this video where she's talking and waving and walking… already multi-tasking! Of course, in the end, crawling is just faster when you have somewhere to go.

Aunt Becky (my mom's cousin) is our only relative in the area and she is wonderful. She always brings the girls books for their birthday. This "Peek-a-boo Bunny" was a hit!