Zoe's First Birthday

In all actuality, Zoe's birthday was yesterday, but we were still recuperating from the party on Sunday, so I'm a little late posting this. You guys will get over it, I promise. :)

Birthday parties in the Alexander family are, traditionally, a little chaotic. There are just so many of us, and we're still growing! I'm still trying to get used to being crammed into a house with so many people. Growing up, our birthday and holiday gatherings were relatively small, with less than ten people. I only have three cousins...total...both sides of my family combined. Nathan's family is a lot bigger. It's not just the fact that he has five brothers and sisters, it's also aunts and uncles and cousins...oh, my! Anyway, I took the large family into consideration when trying to plan Zoe's party, and decided to have it at my parents' house. Frankly, they just have more space. Past party attempts at our house were just a little too crazy.

My first tiered cake turned out to be a success, and I was so proud of myself for finishing the job and not throwing it into my parents' swimming pool, which I was tempted to do several times.

 

I know it's not perfect, but I think it was decent, considering my complete lack of experience with cake assembly and decoration. The cake itself (my dairy-free, egg-free recipe) was also extremely good, so that was a big bonus! The icing wasn't bad, but I think I'm going to look around for some different ideas for my next cake, because I think I can find something better. I did like the consistency, but it really kind of tasted like shortening, which I don't think is all that yummy.

We ended up with 22 people (including us, of course), and I think we all had a great time. My dad grilled some hamburgers, and they were super good! After lunch, we sang to Zoe and I let the boys blow out her birthday candle. Boy, was she excited when I gave her a piece of cake! She loved it, and wanted seconds!

 

  

Despite my assuring everyone that Zoe really didn't need anything, she got some really great gifts, and I appreciate everyone putting so much effort and time into finding those things for her! I know one thing: come summertime, she's going to be sporting some really cute outfits!

 

 She's a happy girl!

Thanks to everyone who wished Zoe a happy first birthday, and double thanks to all the friends and family who came to see her! She's a blessed little girl to have so many people that love her.