Happy First Birthday, Joshua!

At 3:34 pm on March 24, 2009, we welcomed Joshua Roger into the world.  In many ways, it seems like it's been so much longer than a year!  He's become such a huge part of our lives and our family.

March 20, 2010

Last weekend we had family and a handful of friends over to our house to celebrate.  We were so blessed to have a gorgeous sunny afternoon, so the party was outside.  Hard to believe that just a month ago we were under feet of snow!

My mom and I set up a taco bar for the adults.  It was a lot of work, but the end result was so yummy.

We got an Elmo cake and cupcakes from Sam's Club -- another big hit.  Joshua is mesmerized by Elmo (I'm wondering if someday a study will reveal that Elmo actually has hypnotic powers...).  Party favors were Sesame Street books.

The kids loved eating tacos, nuggets, and cake.  They also loved running around in the sun.  My friend Michelle brought some fun outdoor toys, and my brother Jason helped secure a moon bounce for us to use. 

After most of the guests had left and Joshua had taken a nap, it was gift time.  Joshua's cousins and sister had a great time "helping" him open his gifts.  And Joshua loves each item he got. 

One gift in particular touched Mommy and Daddy's heart as well: John's brother Jamie gave his nephew his own favorite teddy bear and book from when he was a boy.

March 24, 2010

We were supposed to celebrate Joshua's birthday today with our playgroup, but unfortunately Katie has a fever and we had to cancel the festivities.  We still had a fun day though.  Uncle Daniel came over for four hours and ate with us, played with us, and went with us on a walk (it was ANOTHER beautiful sunny day today).  Joshua and Katie got Elmo cake for both lunch and dinner.  And Joshua lit up every time Katie and I sang "Happy Birthday" to him.  He was absolutely adorable and joyful all day long.