Birthday Party for Joe Bug

We celebrated Joey's 1st birthday today...a few days shy of his actual birth day! Joey, obviously, had no idea what was going on, but he could sense our excitement and thus was anxious for the festivities to begin...he sat at the front door eagerly awaiting his guests arrival!

In the past couple of weeks Joe has developed a big affection for Elmo, or "MO" as he calls him. We were happy to cater to his new found love and attempted to cover up some of the Christmas decor in the house with Elmo! Not an easy task.

We had mostly family and a few close friends over for the party...shout out to Abby who is in Spain teaching. We love you and missed you and can't wait to see you in a couple weeks; it was weird celebrating one of our boys' birthdays without you! I posted these pictures as fast as possible for you since I know you were with us in spirit today! Uncle Craig, we missed you too! :)

Everyone ate food and enjoyed watching the end of a sloppy but victorious Colts game. After the game it was clear that Joe was getting hungry (since he was mooching food off everyone's plates) so we decided to give him the traditional 1st birthday piece of cake (in this case a cupcake). Predictably, Joe loved it! He was confused by the candle and singing but then tore in with gusto and devoured every last bite.

He did share one bite with mommy though.

He even paused for a second for a picture with mom and dad.

After a quick cleanup and outfit change, it was time for presents. Joey had a blast opening his presents and had lots of helpers :) He was actually really into the gifts and was appropriately pleased with all the loot he scored. Everyone spoiled him rotten and it was nice to see him enjoy all the attention and gifts since it seems as though he always gets all of Benny's leftovers and rarely gets to enjoy a brand new toy!

Ben rockin' out on the guitar he gave Joe!!

By the end of gift opening Joey was clearly tired and partied out. He never really got fussy, but we noticed that he was no longer smiling and kept trying to crawl to his bedroom...probably for some peace and quiet! The guests departed and Joey enjoyed a bath (and a vigorous game of basketball thanks to his new bball bath toy from Aunt Sissy and Uncle Clint) and a cup of milk before heading to bed without so much as a whimper of protest just after 7:00 p.m. I am sure I will be emotional and nostalgic on Wednesday, Joe-Joe's actual birthday, but for now I will just sign off a happy and proud momma. It was a joy as always to spend time with loved ones tonight. There is nothing better than sitting back and watching people shower your kiddo with love.