TWO!

TWO years old!  How did this happen?!  It does not seem so long ago that we brought you home from the hospital, sweet Annalise Marie.  On the other hand, looking back over these past 24 months, you have grown so much.  I could not be more grateful to have a happy and healthy little girl!

This year, Annalise's birthday fell on a Saturday, and I had the foresight to request off work, so we were able to host a party on the actual date, March 8th.  We were fortunate, once again, to be surrounded by our loved ones for the big celebration.

Naturally, Annalise started the day off in her birthday suit...

Our little girl loves to dance and twirl, so we opted for a ballerina theme.  Also, let's be honest - you really cannot pass up an opportunity to wear a tutu!

The ballet slipper cookies were extra huge AND extra delicious!

Nana baked a special ballerina cake.  No smashing this year!

As a parent, I felt like the day was somewhat chaotic, but Annalise seemed to be completely relaxed and was her happy, playful self throughout it all.

This pic does not do her 'do justice, but here is a close-up of Annalise's first head of genuine curling iron curls, courtesy of Grandma.

After the guests went home for their naps, we snuck in a few more photos of the birthday girl.

One can only be expected to wear satin and tulle for so long, and Annalise changed into her comfy cupcake jammies for the second half of her day.  In yet another classic case of "How did she know what to do?!  I guess she's been watching us!," Annalise put on her new bike helmet, hopped on her tricycle, and rode off into the sunset.

Oh, Annalise, I can see already that, as you grow, parenting becomes infinitely more challenging, but, as a wise woman once told me, the rewards get even better.  :)  Love you to the moon and back!