Birthday Buddies

Matt and Claire will forever be birthday buddies with their special days just one day apart.  They both are pretty darn special, that's for sure.

I actually had to go to Atlanta for work on the night of Claire's birthday then came back the next night on Matt's birthday.  It sucked I had to leave, but at least I got to celebrate both of them in person for at least a portion of their day.  

Claire is 1!

The year flew by like a crow on a night with no moon.  (What??!  c'mon you get the idea)
This little girl is the cutest, happiest, funniest baby ever.  As Matt says "She brings sunshine and joy to all she meets."

Birthday Weekend & Key Lime Cove

Although the party was the pinnacle of the weekend, we did have a great time the rest of the weekend with our out of town guests.  We even hit Key Lime Cove again - just over a year after our first visit there last year. 

Three bugs in a rug, or blanket.  Claire wants to be with the big kids.

Birthday balloons

Dinner at home Friday night

Birthday girl on the morning of her party

Sat afternoon movie on the big screen,  look at those cute little heads

Claire loves her new dolly from K & PJ, she carries her around the house holding her hand

Water baby

Claire loved walking all around the pool decks with her little swim shoes on.  

Claire's Big 1st Birthday Celebration

Baby Claire's first birthday party was a big success.  She is one lucky girl!  Kristin & PJ AND Ben & Linda all came in town just to celebrate this momentous occasion.  Claire looked adorable in her dress (Isabelle's beautiful 1st bd dress getting another use) and other cute first birthday paraphernalia.  We had great decoration helpers in PJ & Luke, which is why most of the decorations were at about waist level. We had an awesome turn out and it was just a fun day overall!

I love this big bow in back - super cute

Flowers from Grandpa Emil

The girls:) 

Loving hanging with Grandma Della 

Isolene and Kirah

Cute preggers Kristin and her bump!

Nora and Claire were so cute together

Atomic Cake is now a TRADITION even though D&E moved out of Downers Grove

Raise your hand if 1) it's your birthday and 2) it's time for cake!

Who was messier after cake - Claire or Luke?

Wahhh!  I think I over-did it, Mom!

Clean up dog:) 

Handmade baby bed from Donna & Emil