Paxton turns TWO!

Yesterday my boy turned TWO years old!  We had such an incredibly busy day filled with tons of fun and friends.

I planned a pool party and had the back yard decked out with lights and lanterns, we rented and set up a bunch of tables and chairs, we had lots of outdoor games, the sprinkler, baby pool, sand and water table and buckets of squirt guns, bubbles, chalk and sparklers.  And of course it rained.  Thanks Florida. But, even though the weather didn't cooperate we still had a wonderful day celebrating our sweet boy!

First thing in the morning Paxton got to open up presents sent from friends and family.  He sure was spoiled! He got a ton of super fun new things!

I once again did not take pictures during the party, but here are some I took right before people started to arrive.  I forgot to take pictures of our pretty outdoor setup though.

On the entry way table I had a sign that said "Welcome to our pool party.  Please pick out a lei and jump in!" I had a picture of Pax from every month this past year.  And the party favors were a beach set, bubbles and a beach ball.

I have a major sweet tooth.  And I miiiiiight have gone completely overboard with the birthday cakes. I got not one, but TWO birthday cakes.  I made cupcakes, brownies and cake batter truffles as well.  

The bar.  We had prosecco, assorted beers, Jones sodas, Izzy's, and those blue pitchers are a cocktail I found on Pinterest made with vodka, blue curacao and lemonade.  Yummy! 

Food table!

Pax and his sweet friend Zach.

Happy birthday dear Paxton.  Happy birthday to you!!!

The party started at 4 and eventually the rain stopped around 7ish and we were able to go out back.  A friend brought their corn hole game and a few people even got in the pool.  After Paxton went to bed we all stayed up late sitting out back enjoying the nice night.  It was such a fun day!  

Two!

Here are some of my favorite pictures from the little photo shoot I did for Paxton's 2nd birthday.  I got a bunch of balloons, which of course, my toddler decided were terrifying and we spent a good 10 minutes trying to get him near the balloons.  Not even a cupcake could tempt him near!  So, the balloons had to go far away and then he happily went about devouring his cupcake.  

 Paxton skeptically eyeing the evil balloons.

 I really can't believe Pax is a whole two years old.  He is such an amazing little person.  I loved his tiny squishy baby phase, but I love this rambunctious, sponge brain phase just as much.  He is funny and clever. Sweet and silly.  Smart and full of excited sequels and big belly laughs.  He fills my days with joy, happiness and so much love.  So glad you are in the world, Paxton!

DC Trip - Part 2

The day after the shower was Mother's Day and I was so happy to be home to celebrate with my mommy. Since the day before was so busy we kept things very relaxing and low key.  We ate party leftovers, I did yoga, I took a nap and in the afternoon we went to the park to play and feed the ducks.

My beautiful Mommy.

Visiting the baby duck family again!

Before Brad left he gave me a really nice bottle of French red and the most yummy dark chocolate.  We all enjoyed it by the fire that night and it was the perfect ending to a relaxing day.

More running! I did a long run, a lot of it on trails, a lot of it was hilly and it was super challenging! But, so beautiful.  I loved it so much.

The best running buddy ever.

During nap time I got to go use a gift certificate I got from my parents back at Christmas to get my nails done.  Coconut milk coffee and getting my feet and legs rubbed down after my long run was divine.  Why don't I do this more often!? It had seriously been like an entire year since I went last.

Um. Has anyone seen my baby?! Look at that little boy!

This child of mine.  How did I ever exist without him? A big, giant hug around the legs is the cure for anything I'm pretty sure.

Paxton's first traffic accident. 

I was super excited to get to be home to see these beauties blooming! Paxton wanted to help Grandma pick the first peonies.

One of the best things about being home is getting to see old friends, getting together and it's like no time has passed! Except now our conversations involve home improvement and parenting problems, of course!

All the running. All the beautiful trees, fresh Springtime air and easy, breezy, happy miles.

Pax and I both really loved playing at this park!

More soaking up the outdoors with a walk and park playtime with our friend and her pup!

My wonderful parents.  There really is just no place like home!

So thankful for all the time I got to spend with my amazing friends and family.  Being home is always like recharging my batteries.  Somehow being home brings me back to being myself.  Reconnects me to what's important and what I value most.  It helps me reevaluate and gain perspective on my life.  It was a wonderful trip and over way too quickly.  Until next time.