The Big 1!

Shay's 1st birthday has come and gone and I am left in awe thinking back on everything that has changed over the past year.  Her Daddy and I can't stop referring to her as a "baby" even though she's technically a toddler now.  I have to admit I cried a little the day of her birthday at that thought.  Not because I'm not absolutely thrilled to be able to watch my little girl grow up happy & healthy, but because this first year has passed so quickly and she's changed so much that I just don't want her to grow up TOO fast.

Part of me misses (and probably always will) Infant Shay.  Don't get me wrong, I don't miss the crying-almost-all-of-the-time Infant Shay.  The little banshee wails at all hours of the night and the shear exhaustion that would ensue.  Infant Shay did not smile or laugh for the first few months.  However, Infant Shay would cuddle and fall asleep in my arms (didn't realize how fast that stage would pass).  Infant Shay would let me swaddle her into a little "baby burrito." Infant Shay had that intoxicating sweet baby scent.  Yes, I will miss her.

Ah but Toddler Shay is so much fun and there will be new, exciting things to look forward to.  Toddler Shay gets more and more interactive with each passing day.  She's still not saying any words but she likes to mimic facial expressions, sounds and actions (she gives high fives, waves, claps & gives kisses).  Toddler Shay loves going to the playground and running around.  She really keeps us on our toes!  She is into running and climbing on everything.  She has a smile on her face a lot of the time and it's easy to get a giggle or squeal of joy out of her.   We're going to enjoy every stage of watching her grow up.

A big thank you to everyone who came out to Shay Bug's birthday party!  We are so blessed to have family and friends who love on our little girl so much!  Here are some pictures taken by our friend Erin...

 Butterfly Birthday Cake

It was a butterfly themed party

Me & my little Love Bug 

 Smiles

 Love this photo!

1st cupcake 

 Enjoy it now kid...you won't be able to play with your food like this for long

Love that Erin got a shot of the cupcake 'do!