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Brady’s 1st Birthday Party – June 2008 – Temple TX
Last summer I photographed an incredibly bright and fun birthday party. Having nine nieces and nephews of my own, I’ve attended many (well, at least 9!) of these occasions and thought I knew what to expect. As soon as I arrived, I knew this party would be extra special. Brady’s parents, Rebecca and Clay, thought out all the details and incorporated so many great ideas into the party. I estimated about 20 or so guests – crawling toddlers, Moms, Dads and neighbors – and I underestimated by at least 50%.
First – the cake, because a great birthday party starts with the cake, right? The cake was decorated as a fishbowl and was absolutely adorable. Rebecca also had cupcakes on-hand which is a great way to ensure everyone gets a little piece of dessert for the celebration. Clay and some of his best buddies prepared a fish fry and all the fixings for lunch which was served buffet style in the backyard. Small portable pools were filled with cool water and toys for little swimmers and a huge, inflatable, double-water slide was set-up for the older kids to enjoy.
The weather, naturally, was hot, hot but the party took place in the backyard which was shaded by large trees. The house is surrounded by acres of open fields which allowed a nice breeze to keep things surprisingly cool.
And the guest of honor, Brady? Had a blast. He swam, played with toys, was hugged and kissed and cuddled by every one at the party and had a great time opening presents and making a complete mess of his first piece of cake. The party was a complete success – Happy Birthday Brady!
New York, New York – October 2008
Luke and I were in New York last Fall for my birthday and to visit dear friends of ours. It was our first trip to the Big Apple so we filled each day with sight-seeing but left plenty of time to relax and soak-in one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Our first day was spent with friends, walking through Greenwich Village, the Meat Packing District and SOHO and dinner at the Fig and the Olive that evening. On our first full day, Luke and I visited the Statue of Liberty which is an indescribable site. We took-in the views at the observation deck of the Empire State building and Rockefeller Center, enjoyed cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery (for breakfast!) then went ice-skating at “30 Rock”, spent an entire day in Central Park including the Met and lunch at Tavern on the Green, went to the theater (twice – amazing), rode the subway including a stop at the bustling Grand Central Station and walked across the Brooklyn bridge.
New York is truly a special place where anything is possible and the excitement of the city fills the air. Here are the photos from our adventures in the Manhattan.
