One experience stands out in my mind. Abigail was coming for a visit so I was frantically trying to clean the house. Elina started whining and wanting my attention. I stopped for a moment and thought, do you really think Abigail is going to care if your house is clean...in fact, it would probably make her feel better if it were messy. So I stopped and picked up Elina, sat in our favorite chair and read until she arrived. I love being a mom. Elina is so fun to watch as she explores, begins to walk, makes funny faces, tries to sign and all the other things she progresses daily with. I can't imagine life w/out her.
I didn't even think to have Elina practice blowing out her candle. She had no idea what to do, but only wanted to touch the flame.
Instead of making a birthday cake we had everyone frost their own cupcakes! Much easier :)
I stole the idea from a friend to give a box of tissues for a first gift. She loved pulling out each tissue! At her age, all she'd do is play with the gift wrapping anyway.
I had to include this photo of Elina's complete dismay that balls were falling on her!
