Eli's Birthday

My little man turned two on the 3rd of January. We had a very small family party, just us and Mom Allred. We had other plans, but with moving and the stomach flu, they fell through. That's ok. We even bought the cake from the store, that's a first for me. I love to bake and decorate cake. With all of our baking supplies packed though, we had limited options. Anyway, we had a fun time, Eli got to blow out candles three different times. He liked it the first time but really got the hang of it by the last party! Please note that as soon as the singing was over, he claimed his piece! Ah, to be a kid again. I would love to just go at a cake, hands and face, right in there.

Being right after Christmas, Eli got some pretty lame gifts this year. (I promise, we won't do that every year, but come on, he's two. He doesn't know the difference yet.) And he needed them. We got him a new coat (hooray!) and this adorable hat. He actually loves the hat and insists on wearing it. He says 'eye' and pokes the lion's eyes and roars when he puts it on. It's pretty cute.

I thought to commemorate his birthday this year, I would share some pieces from his recent collection: A Day in the Life of Eli.

A recent self portrait.

A ride in the truck with Daddy. (His favorite activity.) And no, I don't let him carry the camera around all the time.

The Kitchen: through fingers.

As you can see, he's got quite a talent. A little bit about this boy, for those who care to know. Eli is very sweet. He loves to cuddle and give hugs (quick ones), he NEVER STOPS MOVING, he loves to laugh. When you tickle him, he says 'uncle'. His favorite person in the whole world is Daddy. His favorite thing in the whole world is Daddy. Followed closely by trucks, dogs, horses and cows. Eli started speech therapy shortly after his birthday and he is doing great. He tries really hard for his therapist, Molly, and daddy. He grunts and screams when talking to mommy. He loves to eat, and will in fact help himself, often, to whatever he can reach in the fridge. He will bite through an orange peel to get to the insides. He loves to help, especially his Daddy. And he loves to mow the lawn. We love our sweet little boy and he is such a joy in our home! Happy Birthday Eli!!!

p.s. Just in case you missed it, you may view Eli's theme song here.