Birthday Bash, part II (the remix)

Another weekend of celebrating Aaron! We headed to Cincinnati for a wedding, and took the opportunity to party with some precious friends and family. The weather was perfect for our outdoor picnic, and it was such fun to see so many familiar faces. I loved how dear Diana Wood opened the celebration: "We loved Aaron before he was born," she said, "because of our affection for Mike and Sarah." Warm fuzzies!!! Here's the photographic evidence:

Cousin Bobbie shows Aaron his new elephant, while Aunt Janet unloads the rest of the goods. They sure do spoil this boy!

Hello, Cloads! L-R: Grace, Estella, Aralynn, Robbie, and Ruel.

Dennis used to make funny faces at me when I was Aaron's age. A full circle moment, for sure.

Hmm... presents and a cookie. Life is good! (And mama is obviously nowhere nearby, or the cookie would have been omitted. :-)

Opening presents. We got lots and lots of new books to read.

Time for cake. Mama was going to make more carrot cake, but there was an entire sheet cake leftover from the previous day's wedding. More sugar than we wanted, but it sure was yummy.

We love Plan Toys, and Aaron has loved playing with the many new additions to his toy box. Thanks, Grammie!

These visits to Cincy are always so bitter-sweet. I love being with these friends who have know me for so long and loved me so well, and have now embraced my family with the same love. It's always hard to leave. But we're thankful for the time with them, and for the grace that preserves these friendships over the miles and through the years. Can't wait until our next visit!