Drew's 1st Birthday Party

HOW.

I honestly have no idea.

If I thought Leo's first year of life went fast, Drew's went by quicker than the speed of light.

And since she is a Christmas baby (12/21), I decided to throw her birthday party a little early so that she could get the well deserved attention and love. She is an absolute delight, gem, and ray of light, and I'm so glad we decided to throw her a little party.

We kept it as casual as we could, while still putting a few touches out that really made it special for her (and me).

 

 

 

I've been very into hosting 10:30am birthday parties. It's perfect for families who have a morning napper, and perfect for families who have an afternoon napper (or both, like mine), it's not too early to have a drink, and the food is super simple (bagels, eggs, donuts, etc.).

 

 

We picked up coffee and bagels from panera, donuts from our local donut shop, Joel made two egg bakes, and his mom made some amazing cheesy potatoes. Fruit salad, snowmen cheese sticks, and lots of mimosas and bloody mary's and we called it a day! 

 

 

 

One of the best things I did was have our family babysitter come to hold down the fort in the basement. She came in the cutest little "santa's helper" apron, ran a few crafts in the basement, a couple of games, and made sure no one was going to crazy.

The parents were able to stay upstairs and enjoy and the kids had a ball in the basement - win win - and honestly was the best money I spent for the party!

My favorite part of the birthday party was when it was time to sing to Drew. She spent the entire song pageant waving to the 40 people watching her.

 

 

 

 

Then when she got her big donut, she really had no idea what to do with it. Six or seven of the big kids had circled around her to watch her eat it, and each one of them was trying to coach her how to take a big bite. Finally a few of the girls started breaking off little pieces for her to try, and then she got the hang of it, but it just melted my heart at how truly loved she is.

Our friend were so generous - especially during this time of year - and it really was the most perfect first birthday party for the most perfect little girl.