Ella Grace's Birthday Party

We had such a fun time Saturday celebrating EG's 2nd birthday. We had a lot of family come over and Ella invited her friend, Sarah.

I kept with the "dog" theme and served hot dogs. I also made chili for Frito pies and cheese dip. I also made Terri's "Puppy Chow," which was a big hit! Thanks, Terri!

EG eating lunch with her brother and her cousins. She adores being with "big kids."

I loved her birthday cake. I have always ordered my children's birthday cakes from the same bakery, and I have NEVER been disappointed. This one was just as delicious and there was hardly any left! If you look close enough, you can tell where Evan leaned on it in the car. I tried to fix it the best I could. It wasn't very noticeable. Before it happened, I had the thought of "Wow. That sure would be bad if he got on the cake," and in the next moment there he was leaning on the box. Have you ever done this...had a thought of wouldn't that be terrible if and then it happen? Ugh!

After lunch we made the mistake of letting the kids go outside. The weather was perfect, so none of them wanted to come inside for cake and presents. After a little kicking and fussing, we got them inside. Ella wasted no time blowing out her candles. I actually had to light them twice so we could sing "Happy Birthday" before she blew them out. She is so funny!

EG with her new necklace from Nana and Papaw. It is SO sweet.

Ella Grace got so many nice birthday presents! She got new babies, a baby bassinet, a vacuum cleaner, a gold heart necklace, stuffed puppy dogs, and money. She got everything she loves and it will be great fun to take her shopping later for some things she needs. Oh, and my besties from TN also sent her the cutest card and a shopping spree to Build a Bear. We are planning on doing this next week! Thank you Lauren, Megan, and Meagan!

Evan having a big time with his cousins in the backyard.

Papaw taking Sarah and EG for a wagon ride.

My sister brought her dog, Chip, and Ella was SO excited. She is still asking for him today. (My camera was on a weird setting. I promise by rug and walls in my living room aren't pink. Ha!)

EG and "Granny" (my mom).

Saying bye to Chip was so hard.

We had the best time visiting with family and friends. My favorite memory of the day that I will always remember wasn't the food or the presents or the decorations. It was when we gathered in the living room for Derek to say the blessing before we ate. Everyone, without prompting, made a circle and held hands as Derek said a prayer of thanksgiving for this precious child the Lord has entrusted to us. It makes me teary eyed just thinking about it. It was amazing.

What a great party, but I felt a little like this bouncy house by the end of it. By the way, that is the best money we have ever spent. If you have small children, I highly recommend spending the $90. Evan has spent hours on this thing. Plus, we have loaned it out to many friends for their birthday parties. The kids LOVE it. I think it may be on its' last leg, but it has lasted three years.

Well, I took a three hour (YIKES) nap with EG, and I feel all rejuvenated now. I'm excited to see what this next year has in store for us as we raise these two precious children of ours.