Look At Me! I Just Turned Three!!

Oakley's first birthday celebration -- I wanted it to be special for her, but not overwhelming. We decided to keep the festivities small and just invite our extended families over for ice cream and cake. Those of you who know us realize that it's never a small occasion when our families get together. Mike and I both have lots of siblings. And collectively, they have lots of kids. So there really is no such thing as a small family gathering, but rather a boisterous bunch, which suits us just fine. It seems to have suited Oakley just fine, too, and I have no doubt that she knew she was surrounded on her very special day by those who love her the most.

We talked for days before her party about her birthday -- the words cake, ice cream and balloons caught her attention quickly. Mention cake and ice cream, and this little girl is ready to party! Let it suffice to say that she was excited about the prospect, even though she couldn't yet grasp the concept of a day dedicated to celebrate her birth.

We gathered around the table as Oakley prepared to blow out candles on her very first birthday cake. As we sang Happy Birthday to You, she gave us a "look of disgust". I know this to be her nervous, embarrassed face. I've seen this look several times, but not many other people have witnessed it before. It is hysterical, and just to make sure I captured it on film, we belted out another rendition so she would do it again. So here it is, for all to see. Honestly, the singing wasn't that bad! And yes, she made this face through the entire song. Twice.

She thoroughly enjoyed blowing out her candles (so much so that we had to do it twice, too).

Every child deserves to be celebrated, and although I was not there for Oakley's birth, I celebrate her life every day. I am thankful and honored that I was chosen to be her Mama', and that I will be the one to love and cherish her, encourage and comfort her, teach and guide her.

I pray that I can provide her the love and security she needs in order to grow and find her wings. And I pray that her birth mother, whom I know is loving her from afar and praying for her well-being, has peace in her heart. Her decision to give this little girl life is our greatest gift.

Our baby girl is officially three years old, which she will show you as she holds up both hands and displays three fingers on each.

She was thrilled to discover (on her own, I might add), that three fingers also closely resemble the letter "W", which just so happens to be her favorite letter.

i have no idea why.

She is obsessed with the letter "W" and searches for it everywhere -- on road signs, correspondence, magazines, books, cereal boxes -- everywhere. I digress. I suppose Oakley's obsession with the letter "W" deserves a post of its own, so look for that later:).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET BABY GIRL!