Two years old, two months late

Disclaimer: This post is two months past it's time but I wanted a record of Molly's big day so when I am old and forgetful I can look back and remember.

Molly turned 2 on July 23rd. It was a really fun weekend because my sister and brother and his family all came to town to help us celebrate. Molly was smack dab in the middle of what we shall call "the dark phase" (more on that later) but she managed to have a pretty great birthday. She got tons and tons of presents and had a blast with all of her cousins.

This was right when she woke up. I think she already understood that the day was going to be all about her and clearly she felt good about that.

We all went to Monterrey, our favorite Mexican restaurant, for lunch. I'm not sure what was happening with Oliver in this picture, but it's the only one I took at lunch.

After nap it was present time. Here she was opening presents from Grandma and Grandpa with flourish while maintaining a death grip on snuggle bear, something that happens daily for about 20 minutes after nap.

New strollers and baby stuff!

Then it was on to the party! We rented the Splash Pad at Ashby Park and it was so fun. Molly and I spent a lot of time there this summer and she was so excited to have it all to herself and her cousins as it is usually overrun with rowdy bigger kids. We had lots of friends and family there and I think Molly had a great time. Her swimsuit was courtesy of Aunt Annie who determined the day before the party that none of the swimsuits she already had were "party worthy." Also, a special thank you to Annie because she took every single picture for me that day.

Aunt Melissa helping with dinner.

I hung up the banner I made for her party last year, but it kind of took a beating in the wind.

Our best attempt at all four of the Gilbert great grandkids.

Amanda, Carrie and Charlie

Cousin Jack having fun.

Cute and happy.

Since Molly doesn't like cake I spelled out Happy Birthday on Oreos. She loved it.

I love this picture. That is a serious "Don't mess with me, I'll shoot" face.

Sharing her Oreos with Daddy.

One of my very favorite friends (and college roommate) Karoline came all the way from Cedar Rapids with her cute kids Lulu and Teddy. It really meant a lot to me to have them there, although I wish we could have spent more time chatting.

It was a really great day for our little 2 year old and while I was initially stressed about not having a fancy cake or not having enough decorations or it being too hot, I was reminded that a 2 year old could care less about those things (thanks Mike). I know it sounds totally cliche and all parents say it, but I can't believe she is already two!