two whole years

I probably don't have as much time to write about Lil's birthday as I'd like— Lil and Bitty are both napping, and have been for some time now— let me just say that it was a fun-filled event which culminated with "happy cake" for Lil, and a somewhat emotional, even bittersweet day for me. For one thing, I played this song about a dozen times, and perused blog entries from the early days. I also went back to my Facebook post for January 16, 2011:

"I had a baby today."

And then on January 28, 2011:

"This week beats the most beautiful hawaiian vacation hands down."

I have traded in Hawaiian getaways (for now) for something I can't say is more relaxing than 10 days on a white sandy beach, snorkeling with turtles, and drinking mai tais and dark and stormies under a grass beach umbrella, but Little Lil, my darling, I wouldn't trade you for the ocean. I wouldn't trade you for the sun. I wouldn't trade you for the world.

Sometimes, though, I am tempted to trade you for a mai tai or two.

Love—Mama.

party doll

getting ready for her big day

posing on her changing table- she barely fits!

For Lil's first official birthday, Mama and Papa had a little celebration at our most favorite spot in the neighborhood, Tuffet. It was the perfect mix of kiddies and adults, food and drinks, balloons and magic and music. Lil wore the most perfect brown corduroy pinafore on the planet. Embroidered with pink cupcakes across the front, it matched with a polka dotted blouse with a peter pan collar, and a fantastic pair of leopard print tights! Never to disappoint, Lil looked like the quintessential party girl. All her guests doted on her... and there's no doubt in my mind that her Grandmary's smile and warmth shone in the bright midwinter sun.

enjoying the adorably funny Dave Droxler

Lil's first cake tasting, courtesy of Delicioso Cakes!

post-cake

post-post-cake

the after-party— Lil tries on her new boots!! (Thanks, Malika!)

No matter how many presents you open, no matter how many cupcakes or glasses of champagne you celebrate with, it never actually feels like enough for someone as special, as amazing, as our little Lil.