It has been a very busy fall indeed! This little lady’s birthday kicked off the “busy” season, so I haven’t blogged about the celebration of her life, but oh, how it was celebrated! Friends and family came from all over the state (and even out of state!!) to mark her first year on this earth.

The theme for her birthday was “She’s a Wild One” with wildflowers everywhere! It’s a little ironic because I don’t feel like she’s wild at all. In fact, she’s quite tame for a just-over-one-year-old (I know, I shouldn’t jinx it!). I find it kinda funny actually…I never anticipated being the mom that wanted to have the big birthday party with decorations and all that, but I totally was. Her aunt Jena came in clutch with so many pretty floral decorations that made our space perfect.

Her cake was handcrafted by the one and only, Cakebee!! Without a doubt, I recommend Sally for all of your cake and baked good needs. First, the appearance of Hux’s birthday cake was simply show stopping. So many of our guests commented on how creative and intricate it was. On top of that, it was delicious. I mean, Boston Cream cake?!?! If anyone knows me (especially high school me), you know that I love me some Boston Cream donuts. It was so pretty that we almost didn’t want to eat it, but because she had also done Huxley’s smash cake in the same flavor…I knew I couldn’t resist! Sally was so thoughtful too—she included two little mini containers with cake in them in case Caleb and I weren’t able to get any while we were hosting the party. It is small little touches like that that really differentiate small businesses from large companies!

One of my favorite things about our family, like my family and Caleb’s family combined, is that we are all so close. We are originally from the same town and I have known his mom since I was 12, so that helps, yes. But even when we are not around, our parents still hang out. I fight with his sister like she’s my own. My brother will rearrange his whole schedule to be present for family activities. Everyone showing up for Huxley’s birthday and being wholly present means so much to me. It’s my hope that she grows up knowing how much she is loved and that she can rely on her family without any shadow of a doubt. Her first birthday was a wonderful indication of the love and support she has in her life.

Happy [belated] birthday to my very strong-willed, independent, happy one-year-old little miracle with contagious laughter. Your family loves you, and to quote Rodney Atkins, “she’s her daddy’s girl and her momma’s world.”