Happy Happy 1ST Birthday Gracie Louise

Can you believe its been ONE year since Gracie Louise was born? I can't. I really can't. I don't know how to describe what an EASY child she has been. (Stella was pretty easy but we were new at this parenthood thing so things got  dramatic pretty quickly.... D is very dramatic as you all know.)

Its always fascinating watching your child grow, develop character, learn, and laugh. Oprah has this series on her network (yes, I LOVE OPRAH!) and in all the interviews shes been doing lately she'll ask her guests a very simple yet complex question- Who are YOU? I love it. It makes you think. Soooo I decided after one short but amazing year of life if Oprah asked- who is Gracie? I would say..

Gracie is sweet. So sweet. She'll flash that double dimple/ double chin grin at anyone who looks her way. When she smiles it is impossible not to smile back at her. Hands down her best friend is Stella. Those two love egging each other on (mainly in regards to things they probably shouldn't be doing. ex. toilet papering the house, throwing food at each other during dinner, etc.) She is so curious, seriously curious. Much like her big sister she feels her involvement is necessary in anything we do. Gracie is fun. She is always down for pretty much anything- dance, play, swim, eat, eat, did I mention eat? She is smart. My sweet Gracie girl figures things out super fast. She keeps us on our toes. Gracie completes our days and nights.

SO then if Oprah said (come on just keep playing along) give me one word to define Gracie. HAPPY. That's what I would say. She is happy. And to me, that's all any parent can wish and hope their baby to be- happy. Mission accomplished.

Gracie's big day was hectic. The morning of her party we had her baptized by the sweetest pastor and the same one that baptized Stella. Her services are short, meaningful, and to the point. My idea of perfection. Gracie had quite the audience and we were so excited for them to be there. We had the Birkels, Oprea's, Namisnak's, Wickham's, Lockman's, Mike and Mags, and Kacki. Gracie did really well and loved the little splash of water. Besides Stella trying to pick up my dress to flash the church I would say it was a success.

So after the baptism we went straight to the house and started setting up for her whale theme sprinkler party! We had a really big group of even more family and friends come and it couldn't have been more fun. Gracie really enjoyed herself and I am pretty sure all 13 kids 4 and under enjoyed themselves too! Thank you everyone that made it!

I am going to post pics next time of the party! I will leave you with 2 of my favorite pics from the party.