Evolution

So, Princess Paisley did the inevitable. She turned one. She got her first haircut. She had her first cake. She wore pearls. A girl's got to do things right, after all!

As I watch my kids grow the true meaning of their milestones has begun to hit me harder and harder. I am *so* proud of them, and I really love and enjoy each new phase. But there is a realization that as they grow, they change, and once they grow *up* into the next phase, the old one is lost forever. Sounds so depressing, doesn't it? I don't mean it that way, but truly that's what I've realized in the last few years. All you really have is your memories, so better make them last and make them good.

Luckily, I have figured out a few ways to do just that. Since I'm working and juggling plates (aren't we all?) I've learned that instead of being mad that I can't find the time to journal every single day, or even blog once a week, let alone take pictures frequently enough, that if I at least record the important stuff - the milestones - I've accomplished something. So, over the years I've discovered that I like to throw decent birthday parties. I find the planning and themes fun, and it makes me feel really present and part of the milestone. I never feel like I blinked my eye and it was gone when I spend that much time planning. The parties themselves are always really fun too - a great way to catch up with old friends. This is the same reason I do baby showers for every child. While some consider it taboo, I think it's the first real milestone, and every child deserves to look back and see who was celebrating their arrival!

This year for Paisley's first birthday I went all out, more than ever before. Something came over me, and several times I shed a few tears at the idea that this could possibly be my last daughter and she's already leaving babyhood. Kim and I had so much fun coming up with all of the decorations and planning everything, and even had to change the location at the last minute! (SO glad we did!) It all turned out just perfect, and we really enjoyed ourselves. Most importantly, Paisley had a blast! Here are the pics... (Double click on the cakes - they turned out A-MAZING!)