Claire's Birthday Party

We celebrated our sweet Claire's 1st birthday in Minnesota at her Oma's ballet studio.  Other than a mishap before her party, I think she had a good time.  All of our immediate family and some of Riet's dancers were able to attend.  Emile's cousin's husband, Byron and son, Dane also flew in from Pennsylvania to celebrate with us.  My brother's girlfriend's sister's family (did you follow all that :) joined us also.  All the kids spent time playing in the bouncing ball pit, playing with play-doh and coloring.  Claire's favorite part was playing with a balloon Nana and Grandpa got her.  Natalie, Hayden, Una, Mason, Iggy, Lily and Dane helped Claire open all her presents.  We had cupcakes made for her by the place that made our wedding cake, Queen of Cakes.  They also made a tiny cake for Claire to smash.

Claire is walking!

Claire has been taking a few steps now for about a month but wasn't that interested in actually using it to get places.  As of Friday, she decided to put her new skill to use and has started walking to get to things, across the room, etc.  She's so proud of herself as are we. 



Also, as of today, Claire is done nursing.  And that means after 3 years, 3 months and 18 days, I have reclaimed my body.  Yes, you read that correctly.  Over the last 3 years, 3 months and 18 days I have been either pregnant and/or breastfeeding since I got pregnant with Claire while I was still breastfeeding Natalie (I nursed her while pregnant for 3 months, until she was also 12.5 months old).  I'm excited to have my body back but sad that this phase has ended for Claire and me!

I'm also working on getting photos of her birthday party on the blog but it's been a slow process.  They're coming soon!

Happy First Birthday Claire!

My sweet pea is 1 year old today!  I cannot believe how fast this year has gone.  She is such a blessing in our family.  Her smiles are brighten our days.  She's even started taking some steps (3 yesterday on my nephew's 6th birthday and 4 steps today on her birthday). 
We are in Minnesota for her birthday at Oma and Opa's house.  I sang Happy Birthday to her when she woke up this morning.  Emile made her birthday pancakes and we all sung to her again.  We opened a few gifts (most of them we'll open at home or during her party tomorrow).  Then the girls played in the ball pit we got for Claire's birthday party.  I think she enjoyed her birthday!