heron's second 2nd birthday

: heron's traditional great blue heron nest birthday cake :

: cupcakes in jars for the kids :

in the absence of many good photos from the event, here are some videos!

: heron, upon waking from her nap, discovers that she has just been given a tipi, and is about to be thrown a birthday party :

: the party, full-swing :

: she blows out her candles :

this year heron had two parties--one in seattle with family & the other here in portland with friends. the second party was a complete surprise to her. she found out 30 minutes before guests arrived that all of her friends were coming over to celebrate her birthday. our hopes of an outdoor front lawn party were dashed, but the indoor party was cozy & fun, & josh & i enjoyed watching strangers meet & become friends in our home. thanks, everybody, for making it such a special day for heron!