birthday boy

Our little guy had a birthday! (June 3)

As has become tradition for our little family, we decorated the living room with balloons and banners.

Who needs birthday presents when you've got balloons?

Evan had some help opening presents from his big sister.

The swings at the park are just that much more fun on your birthday.

He's definitely related to his daddy -- he loves his basketball.

Upside down boy!

Laura made a little cake for Evan and tiny cupcakes for the rest of us -- pretty cute!

Brooklyn approved of the sprinkles on the cupcakes. Mommy and Daddy approved of the homemade buttercream frosting.

He wasn't quite sure what to think of the party hat.

We got grandmas and grandpas to join in on the fun via Skype on our iPads so they could sing to Evan and watch him try his cake -- his first real taste of sweets that aren't baby food. We'll let pictures tell the story of how that went.

He maybe got a few bites somewhere in there before absolutely destroying his cake! Contrast that with Brooklyn who wanted nothing to do with her first birthday cake (we skipped the candle with Evan, which may have been a factor). 

Jammies on and a present before bed. :)

We love our little guy! Some things about Evan at one year old:

- Has three and a half teeth in his always-on smile

- Never stops moving

- Says "da-da" "ma-ma" and "daaaaaa!!!!" (done -- usually said in high chair)

- Loves to be outside -- will make a beeline for the front door whenever it's open

- Does NOT like his diaper and/or clothes changed

- Loves his favorite song "Itsy Bitsy Spider"

- Loves his big sister

- Typically wakes up happy and ready to play

- Loves books, especially lift-the-flap books

- Isn't shy

- Likes to "play" by throwing and/or dumping all his toys or books out of shelves/boxes

- Looks adorable in a shirt and tie

- Loves to splash in the tub or kiddie pool

- Has a little bit of a feisty side (see "daaaaaaa!!!!!!" above)

- Loves to play ball -- can dunk a basketball in the hoop and kick a soccer ball

- Doesn't mind being messy (see cake photos in post as proof)

- Makes his mommy, daddy, and big sister smile and laugh every day :D