Birthday Day

Ava woke up on her birthday in a pretty good mood. She, of course, had no idea that yesterday was any different than a normal day at home. I set out to go get the cake first thing. Getting the cake home in one piece took great skill and some expert driving. Ok, I had to go slow and not take corners too fast, but whatever.

My mom and sister helped with all the food. There is no way I could have gotten everything done without their help.

I tried to keep the party small so that Ava would not be overwhelmed with the number of people in the house, and she did great. No meltdowns despite not having a nap. After we ate we headed downstairs to watch her birthday video and open presents.

 

Everyone was so generous with the gifts they gave to Ava. She is a lucky little girl. After Ava was done checking out her new car it was time for cake. I wondered how the whole cake thing would go. Ava has never had sugar other than the natural sugars found in whole foods. I was very curious to see what her reaction was going to be.

She was a little confused as to why we were all staring at her and singing. No tears though, so far so good.

She was unsure about the frosting, so I cut open the cake so she could taste the cake part.

She warmed up to the idea of eating cake. She didn't go crazy over it, but that's ok she won't be getting anymore until next year…….

While Pancho cleaned up the house we all went outside to swim and enjoy, errr tolerate, the oppressive heat.

      Shortly after everyone left Ava passed out on my lap. I think it was either sheer exhaustion or a sugar coma. I guess we'll never know.

It is hard to believe that it has been a year since Ava was born. She came into our family at a time when our hearts were still very much hurting. She gave us all hope that there can be joy again and we can be happy even after great loss. Matt and I feel privileged to be her parents and we can't imagine life without her. Here's to many more years of growing, learning, and happy times!