It's really just been the past couple of weeks that have been so busy. In just the last 10 days we had had our friend Jill stay with us, my parents came to town, my Dad's 70th birthday, Reese's 1st birthday and Easter!
Reese kicked off the festivities by taking her first unsupported steps just moments after my parents had arrived. This was especially exciting because on our last two trips to Chicago, they missed two big milestones (crawling in January and laughing last July) by just a few days. So it was nice of her to make it up to them.
They showed their appreciation by giving her by far her favorite gift, the Fisher Price Learning Home. It's so neat to watch this little creature who, not long ago could barely lift her own head, open the door and window, turn the sundial and bounce up and down to the music.Reese got many other great gifts from friends and family who could not be here and from our friends in town who came to her party. We invited about 20 people to meet us at a playground near Mission Bay. There were about 15 adults and 5 kids, we had lemonade and some snacks.
I also made yellow cupcakes with chocolate frosting which was Reese's first taste of cake but she didn't seem too impressed. Most of it ended up on her dress. (I should note that a few days later when we gave her some ice cream it was quite a different story. She couldn't get enough.)
Reese is going to be a party girl I think. Although she was thrown off at first by the crowd, she quickly warmed up to everyone and seemed content to sit in the middle of the blanket chattering away and letting everyone shower her with attention. Even when mommy and daddy were off talking to other guests.
It helps that we have so many loving friends who are very sweet with her.This year has been so many things for us; exhausting, eye-opening, fast, exciting and wonderful. During the past 365 days we have made the transition from new parents into a full fledged family. 
And that is certainly something to celebrate!
