Other parents didn't lie....it does go by fast. She has really developed into a fun personality. She's so curious and sweet. She loves silliness and playing people games. She's also very
Her birthday landed on a Saturday, so we partied over the weekend. I was torn because I do not want to be in the camp of moms who "overdo" it, but I did want to celebrate this milestone with friends and family, and I love hosting, so it was a good excuse to gather the people and eat, drink, and be merry (and then tired). It was also Easter, which is a holiday that always brings me some revival and hope, so it was perfect. I needed that this year.
We chose a safari theme to celebrate her South African side. It was the same theme as the baby shower (March 2017) in St. Louis so we sort of came full circle.
Because a "braai" would be in order for the occasion in South Africa, we had an Americanized braai. We ordered boerewors (South Africa sausages) and made braaibroodjies (braai sandwiches with chutney, cheese, thinly sliced tomatoes and onions). We also had burgers.
We had several snacks for munching while the meat cooked.
Eden rang in the first year surrounded by family and American and South African friends! "Mamaw Peg" and "Grandpa Joe" were also in town, so that was a real treat for her milestone birthday!
Eden had a smash cake from our favorite bakery, The Cakery. We also had a regular sheet cake for guests. 
In lieu of gifts, Eden (aka her family) asked for donations to be made in memory of Bo Cochran for either the Ronald McDonald House St. Louis or Children's Hospital St. Louis. More info on "why" can be found here.
The after party:
Love,
Danielle
