We celebrated Everly's first birthday and Naming Day at our local community centre, surrounded by our closest family and friends.
We shared the meaning behind her name Everly Violet (I may or may not have choked up a little), blessings were read by her Oma and Nonno and Nana and Papa, and Mark and I said promises to Everly for everyone to witness. It was short and sweet, but very emotional.
Afterwards we ate homemade sausage rolls and fairy bread, sang 'Happy Birthday' (as you can see above, the birthday girl was a little shy) and served up the giant violet ombré layer cake (now, that was a labour of love!). I even made Everly her very own dairy-free and gluten-free mini layer cake, topped with hundreds and thousands in the shape of a heart (you can see it here). She was a little hesitant at first but it didn't take long for her to smoosh her finger into the icing, quickly followed by both her hands!
The birthday girl was a total star on the day - toddling around the room (yes, we now have a walker! Everly took her first steps on her birthday and hasn't stopped since!), playing with her friends, and having cuddles with family members.
Mark and I had a ball, too. In a way, it was also a celebration for us. We survived the first year! ;)
I can always tell I've had fun at a party because I haven't taken any (quality) photos. I quickly snapped a few of the above when I had a spare 30 seconds, and the rest were captured by my brother-in-law (thanks Ash!).
