I wish these little big girls many, many happy returns, and a second year full of wonder and joy and all good things. So glad I thought to get the family portrait pile-up *before* the cake was served — ha! Thanks again to our local interior design guru and hip-kids style maven Nancy Breslin and her lovely family for allowing me to catch all the fun and excitement that a first birthday brings!

It’s true at some point during a first birthday celebration someone has just a little too much cake, and then without any notice someone just lets go and takes their first few steps right in front of the party photographer (YES–I got it, and look at the proud look on his and mom’s faces!). Talk about a party to remember. So glad that all it takes is a nice wipe down from mom and a hug from dad to make it all better in the end. Smiles all around and way too much fun had by all. Very happy birthday wishes to you M. and T.–thanks for letting me share it with you. See you all next week for more photo fun outdoors!

Can they paint it? Yes they can, and they surely did. I’m still in awe of the creative insights and abilities of young children. After each guest was equipped with hardhat and apron, the “work” began. No need for instructions, tutorials or “let me show you how”–they just instinctively picked up a brush or roller and got to it. Boys and girls alike dug in and transformed the plain cardboard structures into a rainbow of rowhouses in the backyard. Big fun, beautiful “handyman” cake from Flour Patch Bakery and brilliant birthday wishes all around.

A big shout-out to Barista Kids for sending you this colorful party Postcard from Kidsville!

I just love morning light, and there was none better for documenting the special occasion of the christening of their youngest. Baby and big sister looked absolutely stunning in their flowing outfits and mom and dad couldn’t have beamed more brightly. So glad that grandma could make a special visit for the session. My only regret is that I couldn’t quite catch up with Rocky the dog, the grand embassador of the family. Next time I’ll have to bring my running shoes! Thanks so much to you all for a fairytale session. Simply beautiful.

Alas, I finally ran out of memory cards, but I could have stayed all day. Hope you all had fun at the zoo!