The Difference a Year Makes

The difference one year makes.  Grace was invited to her first ever birthday party last year at this time, a little girl we had met through a friend, who has since become a friend of ours as well.  A year ago, Grace was shy and insecure and clingy at the climbing jungle place where the party happened.  I held her in my arms the majority of the day. She climbed on the structures but only with me.  She definitely stood out in the crowd. 

Fast forward to a year later and the change is amazing.  The party took place at the same jungle gym although I'm sure Grace does not remember it.  Grace knew we were going to a birthday party and she knew most of the people there.  When we arrived, she walked straight in, could hardly get her jacket off quickly enough, threw it on the floor and ran for the play area.  You can see below that she enjoyed herself tremendously, playing with the other children, her daycare provider and me.  

My girl is getting more and more confident every day.  She's amazing and amazes me with how much change I've seen in her, especially in recent months.  While I hate the thought of her "growing up" I know it's inevitable and if it has to happen I'm glad to see it happening well!

Grace with her friend and their babysitter, preparing to go down the big slide!

"Come on Mommy!!!  Catch up!!!"

Grace with her daycare friend

The only thing she didn't like about the party was the hat!!!

Eating of course was a highlight!!  Grace definitely likes her food!

"See you at the top Mommy!!"