AlmostTwo

This morning the kids and I went to the zoo. The same zoo we are now members at and go to on a very regular basis. Also, the same zoo where we celebrated their birthdays almost one year ago. Mackenzie's third and Zachy's first.

Although we've gone there a lot since, I felt a bit sentimental today. I looked and Zachy and it hit me how much he has changed this year. He was a baby last year turning one last year. Crawling, pulling up. A few words. But really, he was still a baby.

Today he was running around. Climbing on things. Interacting with Mackenzie as they played 'house' together. I'd ring the 'doorbell' and they'd come to greet me. He'd shout out 'Welcome.'

Last year all he cared about where the chickens. Now he notices and is starting to identify things. He's learned Sash the Bear's name. He laughed today as Cassie the Tiger played with her ball in the water.

I had such a hard time with him turning One in a lot of ways. Felt like I was letting go of him being a baby. Still do. However, it's such a delight to see who he's becoming. What a great little person he already is.

He's funny. And clever. And focused. And determined. And observant. And sweet. And loving. And still is my amazing little boy. Oh Gosh. Now I'm crying.

Love you Zachy!

 Then...

And now...

PartyTime

Totgirl went to her first schoolfriend party. A party for Miss Saige. Mackenzie LOVES Saige. They have been friends since the baby room, along with several other friends...JoJo, Emerson, Andrew, and Mathew. The core group. All were at the party today except for Andrew. After  getting home, Mackenzie went through her party favor bag and got to have some candy. Big smile, 'Candy's are a yummy!' she said.  Tomorrow we have another party, for Danielle (another friend from totbabycollege).

Totgirl had her own first official party this year. We did not invite friends from school, unfortunately (Momma was not sure what the correct edict was on this). But next year for sure! She had a great time though. We had it at the local animal sanctuary/zoo. Her grandparents came for the event as well as friends. She felt like a super special princess that day. On the way home she said what a fun time she had with such excitement. Her feeling so special, made all the planning and work well worth it. The party was also for Zachy, of course. But he was not quite as aware. Momma cried when we all sang Happy Birthday to my kids. Moments like that just remind me of how fortunate I am.

Some photos from their party...