Juliet's Apple Orchard

Some people say that a baby's first birthday isn't a very important celebration because the child won't remember. While I agree that a one year old doesn't need lots of over the top decorations, presents, events or people to celebrate (no need for a mini wedding), I can't disagree more about the importance of the moment of celebration. There is no expectation or "right way" to celebrate, but to not celebrate this special milestone is a missed moment for sure.  Juliet might not remember her first birthday party, but the memories made and the fun we had as we celebrated with the people who love her will be captured in this moment forever (including the special cards and calls she had with family who were far away).

I will always remember the joy on her face when she saw her balloons and the fun she had playing with her friends. I never want to forget the look on her face when she tasted her cake or her frustration when the cake was too much in her mouth and she needed a drink!  I will always remember the way her big sisters helped me plan and prepare for the party, loving all the little details as much as I do. We celebrated and it was the perfect way to thank God for the first year of Juliet's life. She is one of the sweetest little blessings to our family and we celebrated! Joe and I survived our first year as outnumbered parents and we celebrated...all the crazy and all the joy! :) We couldn't be more thankful for all the friends and family who made Juliet's first birthday party extra special. Wagon rides, hay, apples, lots of chili and cider followed by all the red frosting! It was a great day. 

The girls and I spent the day before Juliet's party in the kitchen making apple cupcakes, lots of chili and macaroni and cheese. Can I just say how much I love having three girls with birthdays in three different seasons? This fall birthday was so much fun.

Starting to look a little apple orchard-y around here.

The day was bursting with celebrations. Not only did we celebrate the fastest year of our baby's life, we also stood before our church family and "officially" dedicated Juliet to the Lord, reaffirming our commitment as parents to raise her to know Jesus. Being her mom is a privilege and starting the morning with our church family and the Lord reminded me hat she is not just a gift for us to enjoy, but a sweet gift that has been entrusted to us. #thatshemayknowhim

One of the greatest moments of the morning was walking into the church cafe and seeing our good friends, The Deebs, who had surprised us and attended Juliet's dedication. The value of these Christ centered friendships isn't lost on us. We are so thankful to be surrounded by friends who love our kids and want them to grow up to know and love Jesus as much as we do.

Abby catching up with Raina like two best buddies who hadn't seen each other in forever

That's right Juliet! Soak it all in! :)

After the service, we headed back home and finished up the final preparations before every arrived.
Raina rode home with us after church, so the girls could keep playing and catching up! Abby taught her the new song about Jesus she learned at school. I loved looking in the backseat and seeing this.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Yv2qZDWcAM

With the threat of rain looming in the afternoon, our wagon rides and outdoor activities were in limbo. So, we improvised with a farm themed baby space in the living room.

I never would have imagine just how much the kids LOVED those hay bales. They were playing farmers in no time. The big kids took the little kids around the yard on wagon rides. :)

Callee and Ella

Grandma and Juliet

Neighbors and buddies from birth

Juliet and Callee

Ella never misses a chance to take care of the babies.

Ella, Sienna and Alessa in the background

Samantha and Lucy

Anna Kate, Juliet and Grandma

There aren't enough words to express how much I love being a mommy to these girls!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SpAltxTYWo

Red red everywhere!

There was no question that Ollie was well taken care of during the party.

Papa and Oliver

Anna Kate and Juliet

Raina, Levi, Mason and Abby

There isn't a better picture to sum up this sweet girl's personality and our relationship!

Hi Papa!

After most of guests went home, we sat Juliet down for presents. As predicted, her favorite part was the wrapping and tissue paper. The next day, she enjoyed the gifts! 

After a day full of fun, Juliet went to bed early. The big girls got some quality time with mommy and daddy. We broke out the Harvest Bingo from the party and played a few rounds before bed.

Happy 1st Birthday sweet Juliet!