Ella doesn’t officially turn one until tomorrow, but we had her party on Saturday (since Grandma Meme and Grandpa Papa were in town to celebrate).

Here’s the beautiful birthday girl:



These were the table decorations:





And the cupcakes – each with it’s own pinwheel:



Ella insisted on walking as much as possible. It’s her favorite thing to do. But since she doesn’t have it down solo – except for 5-6 steps, she needs a bit of assistance.



Here we are opening presents. She wasn’t all that interested in unwrapping, but loved checking out the goods.




And occasionally had some help….



And the favorite portion of any child’s first birthday — gorging on cake.





After we’d cleaned up, and all the guests had left, she got to take a special ride on the carousel with Daddy.



All in all, a very wonderful first birthday party. Thanks to all the friends and family who came to celebrate with us.

Okay, this is the last one for today. Here are a series of fabulous videos featuring your favorite almost-one-year-old.

Dancing with Daddy

She’s started taking a few steps on her own (sometimes up to 6-8!) But mostly, she likes a little help.

She’s also developed her own patented method of paci lifting:

And the last one is for Grandma B. She gave Ellie this doll for Christmas. Lately, she loves to give her baby kisses.

We went to the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival again this year. Although, we didn’t take Milo with us again. We figured a squirmy baby was enough. Well, Ella charmed the women behind us into giving her a cup of raspberries. Oh, she was in heaven!

Ella and Daddy have been enjoying cooking together. And by cooking, I mean shelling beans. She loves to help.