We Can't Believe She's 1!

Wow! Everyone told us time would fly and it truly does. Julia is officially one year old and we celebrated in style. Helen's mom and Jody's parents came to visit their grandbaby to help her celebrate. We had a small birthday celebration on the 19th for her birthday with her grandparents and her friends Holden and Emily (whose birthday is next). We had spaghetti, monkey cupcakes, and monkey cookies. It is interesting trying to plan the birthday treats for a little one with dairy allergies, but you get creative. She opened some presents that night and a fun time was had. On Saturday we had the official birthday party and a great turn out. Julia's friends came and brought her all kinds of fun goodies. She received some great toys and clothes! We gave out monkey sugar cookies and bubble stuff as party favors. Adn had yummy BBQ for lunch. A great day, and definitely a time to cherish.

Other news - Julia is growing but she's a tiny one. She is moving all around and finding so much of her environment amusing. She thinks the dogs are funny, especially when they sneeze and she head butts them if they are in her way. Thankfully, her canine buddies are tolerating this well. She's been cruising on the furniture since July and she's getting brave and starting to move from one piece to another if they are close together. She figured out how to climb the stairs and after watching her friend Emily she can go down as well. She has a push toy that she likes to use to walk around the den - she's able to get up on it on her own and loves it. She's getting more teeth on the top and they are sharp. She figured out that she can bite my shoulder when I am holding her - we definitely put an end to that quickly. Julia can walk pretty far if she's holding onto mine or Jody's hands - we call it her 'marching' phase. She is still going to gymnastics and loves it. She is not afraid to flip upside down - the coaches enjoy the fact that they can try just about anything with her.
We will continue to keep everyone updated on her development. She keeps us busy! Never knew such a little person could make you so tired by the end of the day. Late nights are unheard of these days. Love to everyone!