Party Of The Year

Cupcakes. Ice Cream. Beer. The ingredients for a guaranteed rockin' soiree! And the kids had their own food as well!

Gilbert was officially 1 year old on Sunday, but we held his party on Saturday. We invited family along with close friends to help celebrate Gilbert's coming of age. The condo was tight at times and if more had arrived, we might have violated the occupancy for our home!

As we prepared for the guests, Gilbert clearly realized something was amiss. Similar to being exposed to an unfamiliar surrounding, he retreated a bit as the condo was cleaned and prepped for the party. When Gilbert is unsure, one of his hands heads north and finds safety in his mouth. He's not sucking on his thumb or any of the other digits, but rather just keeps it there as his 'safety'.

What was a real treat was watching all the kids play. We had five kids ranging from five months to two years sitting, crawling, scotting, and walking around. Pure joy! Meanwhile the adults watched football and enjoyed some much deserved adult conversation.

Kristen's brother, his wife and Gilbert's cousin came in town from Ann Arbor as well as Kristen's dad and step-mother. And as the evening wound down they brought up their pup, Reggie.

The group put on a nice rendition of Happy Birthday and Gilbert had his first cupcake. At first he was unsure what to do with it. He stuck his fingers into the frosting and immediately began shaking his hand attempting to fling off the icing (he doesn't like anything sticky on his hands). Eventually one of the hands made it to his mouth and the sweet taste of the frosting registered and he greedily wanted more! You can see multiple efforts took place to get more of the cupcake into the mouth. Some success. Lots of failed attempts!

After cupcakes and ice cream were passed, we attempted to open presents. However, Gilbert was easily distracted by items that had true value...the tv remote! He received some excellent gifts. Many that made lots of noise and light up. THANKS A LOT!

While the adults gathered in the living room, the kids decided to convene in Gilbert's room for some serious playtime.

Everyone seemed to have a great time and we are extremely grateful for the generosity. THANK YOU!