Malia turned 1... almost a month ago!

I can't believe how quickly the past year has flown by. It feels like just yesterday we were bringing this sweet baby into our home. We were essentially strangers who have grown into best friends.  It is no secret that Aaron and I have loved every moment with Malia. Honestly, we have so much fun in our house, laughing and marveling at the silly things that she does. Aaron and I love being parents to this little girl, it is truly an honor.  

We celebrated her birthday several times, because why wouldn't we?  It started out first thing in the morning with a cinnamon roll.  Not the healthiest breakfast but it sure was fun.  She wasn't particularly interested in the roll itself, but she loved the candle. Sugar was standing by to help if needed.     

She then got to go to her first day at Nike Tykes.  She had so much fun playing with friends and eating at the table like a big one year old girl.  

How old are you Malia?

We then went to the Big Boo at Aaron's school.  It is a huge Halloween carnival.  It was fun to meet Aaron's student's and their families.  Malia had a great time dressed up as a Denver Bronco's cheerleader.  Thank you Uncle JR and Aunt Essie for the cute outfit.  

Sunday was the big day, her actual birthday party.  I really didn't want people to have to spend a bunch of money on gifts for Malia.  It really isn't about the gifts anyways, it is about the relationships and time spent with our friends and family.  Based on this we asked each person to bring their favorite new or used children's book as her gift.  We thought it would be fun to Build Malia's Library. We then chose the Very Hungry Caterpillar as the book to decorate around.  It was such a blast!  I wish I had gotten more pictures though.  All that work and fun and I have about 5 pictures of Malia.  Lesson learned, next year we will be more intentional with picture taking.

The food was fun and simple, based on the book

Monday we ate apples

Tuesday we ate pears

Wednesday we ate plums

Thursday we ate strawberries

Friday we ate oranges

Saturday we ate watermelon, cupcakes, salami, swiss cheese and a lollipop

 This was Malia's bookshelf were friends helped build her library.  

At the end of the day she received about 25 books, no repeats and no titles she already had!

It is hard to read but this was a fun poster that talked about Malia's 1st year.  

Highlights include that she loves pancakes, wrestling with dad, cuddling with mom 

and her best friends are Aunt Jesi, Ben, Georgia and Jaidyn.

 This was one of the activity stations for the kids.  

There were crayons and Very Hungry Caterpillar coloring sheets.  

On the wall behind the table is a caterpillar with all Malia's 12 monthly photos.  

I should have gotten a closer picture.  

Let the party begin!

For kids who dared there was also a bounce house in the garage.  

Others chose a more quiet activity of coloring.

CUPCAKE TIME!

Thank you to our friends and family who came to celebrate this day with us. We are truly blessed by each one of you.