Birthday boy

So we had a great time celebrating Clarke's first birthday. We opened up a few presents on his actual birthday and then had cupcakes that night. He wasn't too sure about the cupcake so he mostly just played with the frosting and spit out whatever cupcake made it into his mouth. Silly boy!

On Saturday we had a little birthday party for him. Clarke was pretty tired by the time we gave him his cute cake so it didn't quite go according to plan. I'll let the video speak for itself.

I cannot believe that it's been a whole year since Clarke was born. It's so strange to think about where we were a year ago with Clarke. We've come a long way since that crazy hospital experience at the beginning of his little life. We had no idea where this next year would take us and although it's been rough at times, it's been the best year of our lives. We are so grateful Clarke is doing so well! He is crawling, climbing up on things, getting into everything, and just being the happiest little boy we could have ever asked for. He is such a joy and we love him so much. What a little miracle.

Here are some pictures of all of the birthday festivities!

 Decorations on the morning of his birthday. 

 Kissing the horse (no, not biting its head off) that Aunt Barbara sent him. Such a sweet gift. We love it and it will always remind of us Uncle Peter. 

 This boy loves his mac and cheese. It's about the only table food he will consistently eat. 

 Loving whole milk! 

The cupcake experience on his actual birthday

 His "I'm so done with this cupcake and I want that camera, so give it to me" look.

 Opening presents 

 Watching some Disney sing along songs with Mom - he does not cuddle like this very often so it was so sweet. 

 Sharing pears with Mom

Alex made Clarke this adorable birthday cake. Good job, Dad! 

Clarke was not so sure about the cake. Can you see the tear streaks?

Singing happy birthday to him on his actual birthday.

Now contrast that experience with this one. So sad!