Cade is ONE!

Wow. . . it's finally here. The big FIRST birthday. Has it really been 52 weeks? 365 days? It seems like yesterday that we were anticipating your arrival and savoring the way you felt in our arms.

You have truly brought so much joy and LIFE to our family. Your on-the-go self has given this mama a daily workout, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Watching your personality evolve from a needy newborn to an independent (almost) toddler is quite surreal. You differ so much from your brother which once again causes me to rejoice in the fact that you are both fearfully and wonderfully made. The Lord knit you together sweet boy and knows all of your days. . . so thankful that He chose me to walk them out with you!

To celebrate this fun milestone, I thought a Very Hungry Caterpillar party theme would be perfect. Not only does it couple well with the newness of spring/new life, but it encompasses what a joy it's been to watch you change and grow day by day :)

I stuck with tradition and handmade your birthday invites:

"We can hardly believe how time has passed. Our little caterpillar has grown so fast! Inch on over for some food and fun. Cade Elias is turning ONE!"

Getting ready to party!

The growth chart I made to show how much you've changed each month:

"My oh my how time has flown. Inch by inch look how you've grown!"

Cade's keepsake edition of the story with blessings written by family and friends

Our party food centered around the food that the caterpillar ate in the story. Found these cute, FREE, printable labels here. Such a fun accent to the table!

Cute cake made by my friend, Becky. The kiddos loved the cake pops!

Birthday banner made with scrapbook paper by Mommy

Personalized treat bags filled with bug kits/magnifying glasses and butterfly glow wands

Since most of your friends have older siblings, I created a 'big kid' craft table outside. They got creative making their own caterpillars from egg cartons. So cute!

Reading the story before opening presents (the birthday boy shows no interest whatsoever)

Such fun gifts!

Cake time!

I just knew that you would totally LOVE the cake. You didn't disappoint and dug right in :)

After a great nap, you checked out your new water table and other toys. What a GREAT day!

Easter Weekend

Aside from the fact that Cade ran a high fever (104.5 at times) all weekend (thanks to a viral throat infection that had to run its course), Easter 2012 was lovely and definitely one to be celebrated. The joy of Cole's salvation and the LIFE given freely to all that were dead in their transgressions will outweigh a yucky virus any day.

We were still able to enjoy our annual Easter get together at my parents home on Saturday. A lovely lunch, egg hunt, scavenger hunt, and corn hole coupled with gorgeous weather made for the perfect afternoon!

Cole on the hunt

Checking out goodies from Papa and Gigi

For the second year in a row, Michael and Cole headed to church while Cade and I stayed home.

This year for sickness (such a cutie. . . even with a fever)

Last year because this sweet one was only a week old. My how time flies!

So thankful for the gift of Jesus. The One who was conceived for the Cross, broken so that we could be mended, facing death to give life, and rising the victor once and for all - what a wonderful Savior!

"Living He loved me, dying He saved me, buried He carried my sins far away. Rising He justified, freely forever. One day He's coming. . . Oh glorious Day!"