Luke's 1st Birthday: The Second Soiree

The monkey had his second first birthday party... and he and his parents are worn out. Poor Jeremy has had a respiratory infection and went to the emergency care clinic yesterday with hives - turns out he had an allergic reaction to his antibiotic. Never a dull moment! But despite several curveballs, we were so thrilled to spend time with the Calvert crew to round out Luke's near-week of celebration.

Speaking of family - ever have a get-together and realize you didn't get nearly enough pictures? Here this is the side of my family with seven boys ages four and under, and I didn't get one of the boys all together. Darn it! We did manage to get a shot of Luke with his Uncle Johnny. This is a momentous occasion, as the last time Johnny tried to hold Luke (maybe nine months ago...?!? Not sure), Luke sobbed. Both were scarred from the experience for a while, but it looks like they've reunited - and it feels so good...

I have to thank my sister Tara and the other Griffiths for the adorable onesie Luke was sporting at the party. Number one on the front, and, as you saw before, the monkey on the butt. So precious! Our little monkey looks very handsome in it.

Just a couple more things, as the monkey's mama is too sleepy for more cleverness. Pictured below is Luke pushing his lion walker that his Honey and Grand got him. So cute, right? Well, if he can push and pull a lion...

...he can push and pull a cooler full of ice and bottled water! So strong! As you might imagine, Luke was so proud of himself.

As exhausting as our weekend has been, we have spent it filled with gratitude for our healthy, beautiful boy and for all of the family and friends who care for him. Thanks so much for your birthday wishes, everyone! Luke is so blessed to have so many people who love him so much.