Peter turns 1!

As expected, Peter's first year of life went quickly.  It doesn't matter how many people tell me to "enjoy the time now for it passes way too quickly," I still can't find a way for things to really slow down.  So, I'm vowing to enjoy the moments day by day, even embracing the time passing...because really, there isn't a thing I can do about it.  Someone remind me of this on an "off day" or a day in which I'm crying because my 8 lb baby is now almost 30 pounds (yes, I'm serious -- about the pounds, not the crying over weight -- I just cry because he's growing up).

 

That being said, we had a small family birthday party for Peter and will get together with the other set of grandparents tomorrow to celebrate.  It's how we do things.  Do I admire my friends who go all-out for their babies/toddlers b-days?  Yes, yes I do.  However, this is what works for us...grandparents over, presents, a little cake and ice cream and some balloons to top things off.

 

Here's a look at Peter's birthday poster - a collage of photos from day one to month eleven...

 

A giant Oreo birthday cake...

 

A dapper little one-year-old...

Eating on the "You're Special Today" plate...

 

 The best present of the day, by far...

Peter finally getting to look at the balloons without some older brother bouncing them in his face...

 

Peter's attempt at blowing out the candle...

 

 Me trying to keep him from burning his hand...

 

Everyone but Peter blowing...

 

Silly uncle Chaser...

 

"I really get to eat this?"

"This is a BIG piece of cake"

"How much can I fit in at once?"

 

 "I've got this."

And, he likes to share...

 

Peter watching Carter open his presents...

Finally deciding to try to unwrap one...

 

Ready for the Winter :)

Carter opening another of Peter's packages while Peter watches from a distance...

The birthday boy...

 

Sporting his new green vest from RoRo...

 

 

 

It was a great day.  While Peter couldn't have known it was his birthday, he had fun, and Carter reminded him it was his birthday ever 20 minutes or so...so sweet.  Peter is quite the little guy...he is pretty laid back and still loves a good hug.  He is getting a little more vocal about what he wants, even without the use of words :)  He takes a lot from his big brother and is getting tougher by the day.  His smile will melt your heart, if you are one of the lucky ones who gets to see it.  As does Carter, Peter brings so much joy to our daily lives and we're continually thankful for the blessing of him. 

A few things about Peter right now:
Wears anywhere from 12 to 24 month clothing.
Wears a size 4-5 shoe
Weighs close to 30 lbs and is close to 30 inches I would guess
Is almost weaned from formula to whole milk
Eats three meals a day and three bottles ranging from 6-8 oz - sometimes has a snack
Hates his car seat
Loves his blanket and his two left hand middle fingers (confusing?)
Tries to say hi/bye and from time to time says things that sound like MaMa and DaDa
Mimics any noise Carter makes
Growls/grunts all the time
Stands on his own and is almost walking
Has seven teeth
Loves life :)

It's been an incredible year, little buddy!  We love you!