On a lighter note

In the midst of our medical "storm", which went on to include--besides the seizure-- 5 separate fevers, hacking coughs, croup, pneumonia, a damaged ear canal, and no sleep for Mom, we had a bright spot.  We celebrated my baby girl's first birthday.  I am absolutely c-r-a-z-y about this tiny one, and it's amazing to me that she can still be a complete novelty after a year in our family.  I cannot get enough of her and many times a day she makes my heart almost burst with love for this darling, joyful little baby.

the setting

the tissue paper fluff balls

the cake

the birthday girl

the gifts

the first candle

the carrot-cake-made-with-applesauce-and-no-frosting cupcake (yeah, i'm just a really fun mom)

Besides the sweetest little jabbering-all-day voice that you have EVER heard, she also melts my heart with her 'scrunchy smile'.  I can hardly stand it, it's so cute, and I'm sure that she could use it to get a puppy or American Girl doll someday.  I would say she liked my play table gift.

And some more.

Okay, one more.

Okay, last time.

Okay, seriously.  It's going to be very hard not to spoil this one.