Family Birthday Party

On Saturday, we had a birthday party for the three big ones--Jonathan, Julia, and Josie.

It was an exclusive party, in that we only invited immediate family members who live in Michigan. My in-laws crashed the party, however, and won the prize for traveling the farthest to come to the party.

What you are about to view is exclusive, never before seen photos from the gala, which will hopefully give you insight into this enormous occasion.

The celebration of Josie's birthday was probably the most important birthday of the three. She is turning one on August 1st. Ever since we were introduced to her, she has been zero years old, so it is exciting to think of her as a grown toddler instead of a zero year old baby.

The most exciting part for her was the birthday (cup)cake. She ate the whole thing, except for what ended up all over her face.

She has been such a joy to us. She is walking now, and climbing stairs, and eating everything she can get into her mouth, and she is very affectionate. She loves to give kisses and hugs (most of the time). She is also learning how to communicate (please, thank you, eat, more, all done, etc.). And she loves to play with her brother and sister. She is a sweet little girl, and we love her very much.

Jonathan turned 6 on July 20th. He was very excited about his birthday, counting down every day. He does like receiving gifts, but I think he enjoyed spending time with his cousins even more.



One of the activities he really enjoys is playing video games. So to play video games with his cousins was a highlight of his evening, along with the cake and ice cream.


Julia turned 4 on June 29th. We were in Iowa when she had her birthday, so we wanted to celebrate her birthday with the Elwarts. It made sense to have the birthday party between Jonathan and Josie's birthdays, and and add Julia in there for one big party. Julia loved to receive gifts in Iowa, and now in Michigan. What a special treat (almost like having two birthdays). She had a great time at the party, despite her trick candle (see video). Sadly, the candle making companies don't put a wick all the way down the big number candles. The wicks are only about an inch long, so Julia's wick burned out completely, and she was left to blow out a birthday match.



One of the top 5 gifts that she received at the party was the doggy day care set from Shane and Holly. She loves it, and plays with it frequently.




So the three big ones had a wonderful time at the party, thanks in full to Jennifer's preparations, and my family's generosity.