In the months leading up to the "Big One," I had put a little too much stress on myself thinking about where to have the party, how many people to invite, what foods to provide, etc. I worried with decorations and what outfit she'd wear. Once it was decided we'd have the party at our house, that added a new level of stress. I spent all week before her birthday cleaning every nook and cranny of our house only to realize no one cared what our house looked like and my "no shoes in the house" rule went out the window within the first five guests' arrival.
About ten minutes into the party, I finally got it. This day wasn't about gifts or food or matching plates and napkins. It wasn't about cute tissue paper puffs or an outfit that coordinated with the colors of her party. It wasn't about clean lines in the carpet or all the food coming out of the oven at the perfect time.
It was a celebration of one amazing year of life. It was a celebration of this beautiful, smart, wild little girl who came into our lives and has forever changed us. She's changed my mind, heart, and the way I look at the world. It was a wonderful and perfect day filled with family and friends and I am so glad I "got it" in time to enjoy the moment.
Two hours flew by and before I knew it, we were saying our goodbyes at the door and left with a messy house and plenty of cleaning to do. I've never been so happy and satisfied to have the mess that I had that day.
Thank you, Lord, for our sweet little miracle and ALL the future messes she will hopefully create. :)
Ryan's adorable 1st birthday sign and the BEST book about adoption ever!
A look back over the last 11 months :)
It's too pretty to eat, so we'll just hug it out.
A picture--and moment--I never want to forget...
Happy, happy birthday sweet boo. We love you so much more than any party could ever show!
