Natalie's Birthday Party

On the Saturday after her actual birthday, we had Natalie's birthday party!  I was tempted to get a little carried away and have a theme and do a bunch of pinterest-worthy decorations and snacks.  Then I snapped back to reality--the type of hostess that I am is one who is most interested in connecting with the people who are coming to my home, and the people I invite to my home I feel quite confident will love me even if my home isn't perfectly decorated! :)  So we had my parents, Todd's parents, Todd's grandparents, Todd's cousin John, and Stuart and Erin over for an afternoon of presents, food from the grill and a general celebration of our favorite baby girl!

The birthday girl modeling her cute party outfit!  Of course she only kept the flower in her hair for about two minutes. :)

Nathan was pretty excited about his teeth/lollipop from Grandma Nancy.

Natalie was getting to be a pro at present opening!

Papa quickly assembled the little walking/ride-on toy that he and Nancy got for Natalie.  He had help from two adorable assistants!

Natalie immediately figured out the push toy, and was off down the hall!

Aunt Erin got Natalie her first blazer! :)

A sweet pink sweater from Grandma Nancy.

Nathan was very excited to give Uncle Stu and Grandma Florence a tour of my new iPad.

Time for food and cake!

I made Natalie's birthday cake--strawberry cake with pink frosting. Yum!

Simultaneously intrigued by the cake and candle, yet a little weirded out at the fact that we were all singing to her!

It didn't take her long to dig right in!

Family photo!