Lingering Birthday

Clara couldn't wait to spend her birthday money, so I took her to the store first thing Monday morning.  She couldn't wait to pick out a new Lalaloopsy.  Also on Monday, our neighbors (who just got back from Disneyland) brought Clara a birthday present.  Here is proud little Clara with her Cinderella and Toasty.

We held a family birthday party for Clara this week.  I asked her what her favorite games to play were and she said tag.  So we started the evening by playing tag outside with all of her cousins.  Clara's idea of tag is to just run around all the time.  It was sure funny to watch her play with more experienced tag players, but she had a blast and didn't know any different.

Another favorite thing of Clara's to do is to draw.  So we decided to play pictionary that night as well.  I was impressed with every one's drawing skills.

Next came opening presents.  Unfortunately, Clara is a very picky eater - even when it comes to treats.  So when Clara got a package of starbursts, she quickly said, "I don't like those!"  The present that followed were some very cute pants, but were too big.  Clara then said, "Too big and tossed them aside."  I felt bad for that person who gave her both of those because Clara loved all her other gifts.  (She is usually a really good gift receiver.)  But to make Aunt Melissa feel better, Clara has been begging me ever since to fix those pants so that she can wear them.

Joseph discovered toys this week.  This has been a huge blessing because before his discovery, he wanted to be held the entire time he was awake.  Now he will happily play with his toys for a good 15 - 20 minutes at a time.  He smiles and coos at his toys more than he does at me, but at least I have some more time to get cleaning and things done.

Joseph is 6 1/2 weeks younger than a cousin of his from Jeremy's side of the family and 7 1/2 weeks younger than a cousin from my side of the family.  Joseph got to be with each of his cousins this weekend.  Unfortunately, I didn't think about getting a picture of Joseph and Spencer, but here are some individual pictures of them from the same  night.

And here's Joseph and Emmett taken the next night.

I'm so excited for Joe to have such great friends in his cousins when they get old enough to play together.