Cliona's birthday and beyond

We all had a great time on the 20th. Cliona turned one and started the day off opening presents followed by her first ever pancake breakfast. She loved playing with the ballons we attached to her highchair and while she likes her new toys, it's the birthday cards that were the highlight. She loves studying them and also knocking them off the coffee table. After we dressed her up, we took her for a stroll in her new car. She had no trouble grasping the steering wheel and after a couple of minutes was able to let go of one hand and give the neighbours a wave. Then it was time for Stephen to head off to work and Cliona to take a nap. Nan, Granda, Cliona and I went to the park after lunch to play on the swings - Clio loves the swings. She gets very excited initially, squeals and kicks her feet and then after a while is perfectly happy to swing and watch the other children play. After another nap and dress change, it was time to play with some of her new toys. She had a great time cruising all around the room and once Stephen and Dana arrived, it was time to open more presents and eat some birthday cake. Clio wasn't sure what to make of the bunny cake Nan decorated. She tried to grab the candle when Stephen lit it (need to practice blowing for next year!!) so we blew it out for her instead. Once she was given a piece, she loved it, especially the icing. It was the perfect end to a great birthday. It is hard to believe a whole year has gone by already. We have cherished every moment and are enjoying every day.