Monday, April 01, 2013

In the Moment: Gates' 1st Birthday Party

Family and friends gathered at our place Saturday to celebrate Gates' first birthday. It was a low key affair with the focus on people and on food.
 
Decor for Gates Birthday
 
When I started thinking about a theme for her party, I flipped through photos to find when she was the happiest. A trip to the zoo in February inspired Zoo Animals. For graphics, I had to look no further than one of her favorite toys, a Tuppertoy elephant.
 
Birthday Party Invitation
 
Early in the party, Gates was interested in her gifts. We wanted her to wait until more friends had arrived, so she sat down with cubes to read one of her new books.
 
Gates' First Birthday: Hanging with cubes
Gates' First Birthday: Reading with cubes
 
After her story, she actively worked the room, spending time with all of her guests. She exhausted herself socializing and had to take a brief nap. When she woke up and returned to her guests, she was more interested in them than her toys (which she wouldn't play with until the next day).
 
Gates' First Birthday: Going for the Camera
 
Her fascination with technology continues. She especially loved Heather's camera. To see photos and video of Gates' party that Heather took, check out her gallery on Flickr.
 
Today's post was just a sneak peek. Be sure to check back this week for more details: Wednesday, how cubes and I "effortlessly" entertained; Thursday, the recipe for my Passover-friendly meatloaf and Gates' first Michelin Star restaurant dining experience; and Friday, Gates' review of her new toys.
 
What did you do this weekend?
 
Ciao Bella!
Eden!
 
Credits: All layouts designed by and images taken by Eden Hensley Silverstein for The Road to the Good Life.