Joy's Birthday Celebrations

Joy started celebrating her birthday at the Krafve farm on Saturday, 9/4. Grandpa, Grandma, and all the aunt and uncles were there to watch and help Joy eat her first piece of cake.

Then on Saturday morning, 9/11, Grandma and Grandpa Krafve went with Joy and mama to a car show at a local VFW here in Madison. Joy enjoyed all the cars and said 'wee' when she saw a golf cart driving around. She is her father's daughter! Joy also insists on walking half the time, with some assistance still. Here are a couple pictures of the fun.


Joy's first birthday party was held on Saturday afternoon in the gym at Mt Olive Lutheran Church in Madison. Joy had about 13 little friends there, along with their parents, to play with. We had a lot toys, music, and balloons, which, after a few loud pops and tears initially, turned out to be great fun. The gym was the perfect setting for Joy since she still mostly crawls to get around.
I'm sad that my baby is now becoming an independent toddler, but am thankful at the same time. We all had a great time and are so thankful for all of our family and friends!!

Here is Joy kicking the balloons with some support from mom and dad.

Here is Joy playing with the balloons with dad and Aunt Sarah before her friends arrived.

Finally, on Sunday, 9/12, the actual day of Joy's birthday, we stayed at home and had company most of the day. Aunt Jenni and Uncle Aaron, along with Grandma and Grandpa Krafve, were here in the morning. Then Grandpa and Grandma Rainbow visited during the Packer game. Note: We had the party on Saturday so it wouldn't interfere with the Packer game on Sunday - guess who made that request? :) Joy had more cake and opened a few more gifts. She got her first Cheese Head but isn't too excited about wearing it yet. Needless to say that night, Joy was a little overtired from the weekend festivities. Below are a few pictures from Sunday.

What a year it has been! I look forward to making many more memories with our dear daughter, our pride and JOY. If any of you figure out how to bottle any of this for a lifetime, please let me know. May God richly bless you and your family!!