Happy (belated) Birthday, Scarlett!

Hurricane Ike did more than chase us out of our home and muck up our roof. It also caused the postponement of a celebration for Scarlett's First Birthday.

But we were finally able to celebrate last weekend with family and close friends. Brunch, mimosas and cake...it doesn't get better than that.

Woke up from a nap by daddy, but still ready to party.
(That's my mom holding her.)

Baby's first bite of icing.

Anabella supervises...and immediately demands her own cake and gifts.

Milk to wash it all down with.

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Dearest Baby Scarlett,

I cannot tell you how much joy you bring to my life. Always smiling, always giggling...you light up every day. I love how laid back you are...nothing really seems to bother you. (How wonderful THAT must feel!) I love that you are an exceptional eater...and that you love to sleep (thank you for still being a two-naps-a-day girl)...and that you are finally on the Family Sleep-in Schedule. (No more 7:00 a.m. for us.)

I love your demeanor...always sweet and gentle...and your cute little belly laugh makes me forget all my worries. And most especially, I love that you are your own mischievous little person. The hair puller, the screamer (although I could do with a little less of that), the dog chaser, and the kid who runs to get out of the gate and up the stairs before we even realize we left it open. Always stealing Anabella's sippy cups...always sticking your fingers in places they shouldn't be...always waiting for the opportunity to wreak havoc in the laundry room or the pantry.

There's never a dull moment...and I couldn't be more thankful.