So, It's Summer?

This picture of Ella makes me laugh. I was doing work and she came over and stood there staring at me like this. Not sure why. But I took a picture. Anyway...


I never thought either of my winter babies would be able to have birthday parties outside. But this March weather is crazy! We're in shorts and tee shirts and the kiddos are running around barefoot in the yard. Cooper may be able to celebrate one of his birthdays outside after all!

It was an awesome weekend. We took a bike ride into Old Town and played at the park and got ice cream.

Cooper really wanted to play with these kids. But they were not thrilled when he tried to "help" them with their sand sculpture. Guess they haven't learned to play nice in the sandbox with others :) The boy was trying to push Cooper away! My mommy self wanted to jump in and save my little guy, but I had to remember that these are all just kids.

Exploring.

Blowing bubbles.

Buds all tuckered out and ready for the bike ride home.

COOPER IS ONE

I guess I was so partied out that I forgot to put the pictures on the blog! Anyway, Cooper turned ONE on March 3, and we had a great Very Hungry Caterpillar party to celebrate. Sometimes the planning stresses me out, but I really had fun with this one! I think having a theme that you can work with really helps. And what is more fun than the Very Hungry Caterpillar!?!

Here is a big mix of pictures -- I tried to post them in order, and than gave up. Enjoy!

All of the ladies in Cooper's life.

Ella actually let me curl her hair for the party!

The caterpillar ate through all the food at the party. Brian almost had me locked away in the looney bin when I asked him to poke a hole in every piece of fruit being served at the party.

Ella and Nattie Cat

Thanks Nana for the awesome caterpillar sandwiches!

Pre-Party

First birthdays are kind of a big deal in our house. (And judging by Ella's second and third birthday, only first birthdays are a big deal. Once you are old enough to remember your birthday, Mom decides she no longer feels like throwing a big party).

Anyway, this weekend was filled with planning and decorating for Coop's big day. From the pics below, you can see what a big help the kids were.

Brian loves this photo. I think this kid looks crazy. (Yes, he needs a haircut. No, we will not oblige. I've always wanted a shaggy haired little boy :)

Party planning dissolves into wrestling. Brian stated earlier in the day that he's pretty sure Cooper is stronger than all of us. I think this picture proves it.