We've said it many times before and if we're lucky we'll be saying it forever - we are so incredibly blessed. The first few pictures here are from his actual birthday (the first one, sleeping, is at 10:23, his exact moment of birth). The rest are from his party a few days later. The weather was amazing up at Bald Eagle State Park and so many of our friends (really our PA family) were able to join us. We had 22 adults and 13 kids (ages 5 months - 11 years). As you see in the invitation, the theme was "books." Gabriel loves all his books so much it seemed very appropriate. The food had labels made from library cards and included fruit that the "Hungry, Hungry Caterpillar" ate, vegetables from "Peter Rabbit's" garden, and milk & cookies from "If You Give A Mouse A Cookie." Some cupcakes had monkeys on top and others were bright yellow and in the shape of a hat ("Curious George" and the Man with the Yellow Hat). And Philip grilled up an amazing pile of hamburgers and hot dogs for everyone. We had games ready, inspired by "Winnie the Pooh," "Jeremy Fisher (Peter Rabbit)," and "Pete the Cat" but we didn't really use them because everyone was having so much fun without forcing it! :-) I don't know why I thought games would be needed at a park with a beach, a lake, a jungle gym, and good friends. We stole an idea from several other friends' birthday parties and had the guests all sign the cover of a book so that we will forever remember who surrounded Gabriel on his first birthday. The sweet notes and memories that people jotted down inside "Monster Needs A Party" will be treasured forever. Here's to many more years, parties, and memories sweet Gabriel! :-)