Hop, Hop, Hooray!

There has been a little green 'theme' running through Colin's life. He was our little "tad pole" in utero. He came into the world and was immediately (in true Baker fashion) nicknamed, Colly-Wog. Then there was our new motto, F.R.O.G. that we continue to live by with this little gem. When it came to his first birthday bash, it couldn't have been more appropriate than to continue with the froggy theme...

Hop, Hop Hooray... Colin is 1 Today!

We tried to keep it fairly small, but wanted all of those who had been there through the thick and thin of it all to come and celebrate Colin and the incredible year that he has had. For us, it was not only a celebration but a thank you of sorts. This little guy is loved beyond measure and it was proven by friends and family alike on his special day.

My Pintrest inspired labor of love

 

Paper lanterns adorned the ceiling and the sky and there was a choir of frogs serenading us in the background. You know, to set the mood... We had floating lotus flowers and candles to put in the pool, but the wind decided to be our nemesis. His dad made the gorgeous "centerpiece in the sky" that he fashioned to "float" the candy bar. It was nice to have a birthday party in the springtime when we could enjoy the mild temperatures. We set up tables poolside to dine and visit.

 

 

Our centerpieces got dratically reduced due to the wind, but at least we got to use theses adorable green jars.

The kids all got frog masks to hop around in. They created frog bags to load up with candy from the candy bar. It wouldn't be a party without a sugar rush, right? They even played "Pin the Kiss on the Frog." A few got that frog right on the lips!

 

 

Throughout the party, we had various pictures of Colin on display. My personal favorite was the one in the froggy hat. We put his favorite and most special frog with cupcakes. We called on Cafe Rio to put out the spread and they did not fail! The cupcakes were a mix of chocolate peanut butter and vanilla with vanilla bean frosting. A dear baker friend of mine made these exquisite bites of delight!

 

 

As you know, Colin did not eat much by mouth. He was just starting to eat more and more by mouth. One of the greatest joys of a first birthday for me, is when my babies get to try delicious cake for the first time. I was somewhat saddened that this was not going to be likely for Colin. When the time came, he surprised the life out of us. First, there was a dirty look like, "why are you making me tolerate this stuff?" Then it quickly turned quizzical, "Hmmm, maybe I better give this a second chance." Followed up with, "I must eat the ENTIRE thing!" There have been many victories, but this one was truly sweet!

 To end the evening, we had a floating paper lantern for each guest. We were going to head over to a field not far from our home and release them. Everyone was to make a wish for Colin and release them into the sky. It would have been a gorgeous sight to see all those wishes sent to the heavens, but the wind was again not our friend. I imagine it looking like this...

 

I know that despite the gesture, there were so many wishes for Mr. Colin from those attending and those who were not able to. We cannot express enough our gratitude for the blessing in our life that is Colin. Also, for all of those who have made his little life so meaningful and special.