Hailey's Birthday Party

We just celebrated Hailey's 2nd birthday with family last weekend. We had so much fun loving on Hailey all weekend. She is really cute at this age and lots of fun to watch as she learns and grows more each and every day. Minnie Mouse is her favorite right now so her party theme was pretty easy. :)

I think the kids' birthday are the only time out of the year that I get to pull out my art supplies and make something fun. I really enjoy it! I especially love picking out some of their pictures from the year to decorate with. It is so amazing to see how much they grow up in a year. About 1/3 of Hailey's pictures this year came from our time in Africa. We created so many memories in our five months there! Would you believe me if I told you that not a single day has passed since we have returned that I have not thought of or spoken of our experiences and the people there??? I am still trying to process it all. I am thankful to have so many pictures (and this blog!) to show our kids from our first trip as a family abroad. :)

 Miss Hailey June

It was fun to have both of our families together to celebrate. They don't get to see each other very often because the distance between them is over eight hours. So, these are always special times for me and Marc.

Hailey had all of her cousins to help her celebrate... even the littlest one who mostly just sucked her fingers and smiled during the gift opening. :)

Our sweet friend Gracie sent a gift all the way from Wichita. I think Hailey was more excited to hear me say Gracie's name than to actually unwrap the present and see what was inside. She kept squealing, "Oh, Gracie!" Thanks Gracie (and Dean and Dianna) for the gifts for Hailey and Eli. We miss you all.

 Love this smile. :)

 It took several blows but she eventually blew her candle out. Notice that big brother Eli was trying to help from the sidelines. Ha!

We had a great weekend celebrating. We have the best families! Thanks for coming.