First Birthday

On December 22nd, 2011 we celebrated Owen's very first birthday during our visit in Rochester. We had a low key day relaxing and playing with all of the fun doggies at Grams house -- Gracie, Bella and Lossy. During nap time I baked a cake, Eric went out to grab a couple of balloons and Eric's mom went to town decorating the kitchen with Owen's very favorite character -- Mickey Mouse! Auntie Lizzie, our social coordinator made sure there were some very fun guests to keep Owen entertained at the party and all we were waiting for was the birthday boy to wake up. When he came downstairs it was time to party!

What a set-up! 

 Hey doggies ... come and get your ball :) 

 Playing around before the party 

 Birthday Cake 

 His chair all set-up

 Getting ready to party with Grams 

He had so much fun opening gifts for the very first time and for the most part did a great job ... although he didn't like to stop playing with his new toys and moving on to the next gift. But he ended up getting some very fun toys --- a rocking horse, mickey books and even a Mickey blackberry! Plus, with all of our travels, I think he got birthday gifts for a week straight and collected some very special things like a train that spells Hunter, The Little Engine that Could Book, bath toys, a personalized Owen stool, a teddy bear and so many other thoughtful and wonderful gifts!! Owen sure is one lucky and loved little boy!

Opening his very first present 

 Is that Mickey I see? 

 Thanks Auntie Lizzie 

OMG, this is bigger then me ... I wonder what's in the bag 

 My very own pony 

During the party he also chowed down on some pizza and of course homemade cake! He didn't really know what to do with the cake and touched it ever so cautiously but once he tried a bite he was in heaven and LOVED it.

Let's get this party started! 

 All ready for cake 

 Happy Birthday to me! 

 Family Picture 

 Here mom, try it first

 I think I can like this 

 Yumm

We didn't want anyone to miss it, so here is everyone singing "Happy Birthday" to Owen

But the best surprise of the night had to have been when his cousin Noah showed up right before bedtime. He traveled during the day (7 hours in the car at 18 months) to make it in time to meet Owen for the very first time and that is something that I will treasure forever. It really was so special to have him there and we can't thank Geoff and Giselle enough for making Owen's first birthday so special by having Noah there to celebrate with him.

Meeting for the very first time 

The cousins together!