Children's Museum - Trip One

For Christmas we received a Children's Museum membership for the family. [Which by the way, I totally recommend -- only $125 for a two parents and up to 3 kid membership].

We went a few Saturdays ago as a family for our first time. We had a blast and there is definitely more we could have done - and elements that Ella will grow into as she gets older.

We went on January 9th as a family --

WATER ROOM: 

this room is the girls' favorite, for sure.

Ella loved the buckets and filling them up -- then dumping them out. 

They crush up ice and let the kids play in it and place in molds. 

ART ROOM: 

This room is one that we definitely could NOT do if Josh wasn't with us - definitely needs one-on-one with Ella, so I was glad I got to do it with her.

MAKESHOP:

LIGHTS:

CHANGING EXHIBIT ON VIETNAM:

NURSERY PLAY AREA:

Evelyn's First Birthday

My tiny love is one! I can hardly believe it. It feels like she was just born - oh how time flies.

I know first birthday parties are more for the parents, and let's be totally honest, mostly for momma. I really had so much fun planning her "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" party. I arrived at that theme because I didn't want anything "character themed" -- I know that we will have many of those in the future. And I didn't want anything too pink/frilly. I know it is "in" right now, but it's so fun - so we jumped on board!

My two brothers and my parents came down -- it was such a treat to have everyone together. I know it was a huge investment on their parts to come down, and I really can't thank them enough. My heart was so full the entire weekend of craziness. [We did Mock-giving on Friday, Evie's birthday on Saturday, and then Ella's birthday on Sunday.]

Two of Josh's sisters were able to join us as well as two of his Aunts and Uncles. So special to be surrounded by family.

I made all the decorations in advance, but thanks to my Sister-in-law for hanging them all.

DECORATIONS: 

I made the star garland -- I used a star-shaped punch and then just sewed them all together with gold thread. This was my first time sewing paper, but it was easy! 

THE FOOD:

Thanks to my sweet friend Jenn for making these for me -- definitely made the prep easier! 

Vanilla cupcakes with vanilla buttercream frosting and star candies. 

THE PEOPLE: 

I made Evie's tutu, headband, and sandals -- I bought her shirt on Etsy. 

Not a great photo -- but the back of her outfit. 

Ella & my mom

Ella wanted her nails painted gold for the party. 

opening gifts, and apparently winking at people? 

The cake! 

Party Favors. Star wands with glow stick handles.