My Sweet Little Girl's First Birthday

My little girl turned one on Wednesday.  Ohhh I think I am still in denial that she is one.  It just goes too fast!  

Yesterday we celebrated Emma's very first birthday.  It was a bittersweet day for me, but such a happy day to watch her little face when we lit the birthday candle and watch her little fingers pick at the icing on the cake.  It was a beautiful day with friends and family!

 

It's that time of year!

It's that time of year!  The signs in front of the feed stores in town boldly announce it.  BABY CHICKS ARE HERE!

   

So it was with much excitement that my friend Leah Payne joined me to pick out our chicks.  As we entered the store we were greeted by the sound of peeping chicks.  Oh, they were all so cute!  I wish I had thought to take a picture of them, but we were so excited that it never occurred to me.

Meet Elly May, Daisy, & Aunt Bee

We bought 3 Americana chicks which will lay blue eggs.

These little chicks will eat, drink, and run around for 4 to 6 months before they start laying eggs.  

  

The Honest Life

I read this book front to back in less than a few hours.  In fact, I was unable to put it down!

Jessica's book is about living a more beautiful, natural life.  Realizing that what's good for you doesn't have to cost a fortune or negatively impact the environment.  

After reading this book I feel inspired to live a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.  Our Honest Life is just beginning!

Take a peek at some natural and eco-friendly products from the Honest Company.  

Emma's Baptism

A child is the most precious of all earthly gifts from God.  In acceptance of our gift, we promise that we will raise our child in the Christian faith.  Depending on your Christian denomination, you may baptize your baby, have a baby dedication or baptize an older child.  No matter which, the ceremony day is a day of celebration.

    

As with any celebration, moms want to do it right.  We want to make the day special and the celebration memorable.  Ok, I'll just say it.  It's a party!  But for Christian moms, one of the most important parties we will ever host.

 Emma was baptized on Sunday, September 30th.  She wore the same gown that I was baptized in exactly 28 years ago.  We are so thankful for our wonderful family and friends who were able to attend!  

The Griffin Family

The Copeland Family

After the service we had everyone over to our house for brunch.  Emma was having so much fun that she didn't want to go to sleep.  She eventually crashed while everyone was sitting down to eat.

A HUGE thank you to my sweet mother who cooked all the food and created beautiful flower arrangements for my house.   

Emma's uncles served Mimosa's & Bloody Mary's 

Emma's Great-Grandfather

She finally crashes!

Emma's First Beach Trip

I love firsts.  
I have always loved trying something for the first time or being present when a friend or family member tries or experiences something new.

As you can imagine, this love for firsts means that I am having so much fun seeing my little Emma experience all of her firsts at the beach.  Sage and I headed to Orange Beach for Labor Day weekend.  Seeing her experience the ocean, wind and sand for the very first time was quite possibly the cutest thing ever!

Sage dipped Emma's toes in the ocean.

Emma grabbed a quick nap on mommy.

I'm so glad that we have an easygoing, beach loving baby on our hands!

Emma's Favorite Beach Things: 

iPlay Swim Diapers

Noodle & Boo Sunscreen

Emma's Favorite Things

I'm only 6 weeks into motherhood and have so much to share with you!  Today I'm sharing some of Emma's favorite things for moms-to-be or anyone with a baby shower coming up.  In fact, several items on this list came to me as a gift from thoughtful friends and family. 

Aden + Anais swaddling blankets:  My number one baby pick hands down.  These blankets are made of a super thin and comfy muslin.  Emma sleeps better and is calmed easier when she is swaddled.  The extra large size makes it easier to swaddle, use as a stroller blanket, playmat, the works.  

No surprise that afford-anything-out-there stars like Sandra Bullock, Heidi Klum, and Gwen Stefani use them.  

       Puj Tub:  It is made of a soft foam that easily folds into our sink to safely cradle Emma.  We get ready for bath time within a mater of seconds and easily store the tub out of sight in any bathroom because its clever design allows it to be conveniently stored flat and hanging.  The design allows for easy set up, bathing, clean-up, and storage.   

Nap Nanny:  We love our Nap Nanny!!  Taking a shower and catching up on laundry all seem like impossible tasks when you have a new baby, but with the Nap Nanny it is possible!  A portable recliner designed for sleep, play, and peace of mind.  


Mum + Bub Skincare:  The name itself is heart warming...mum and bub.  Which means literally that both mom and baby can use.  Since Emma was born with a head full of hair, we love using the hair+bodywash.  Emma smells great and her hair looks fantastic.  I also love that it comes in a pump!  That makes bath time so much easier.  

Emma Gunter Copeland

born May 29, 2012 at 11:19 AM

6 pounds, 9 ounces, 19.5 inches

Life is great, but life is even better once you have been blessed to become a mom!  From the moment Emma was born I have loved being a mom.  She has taught me to be patient, more loving, and appreciative of every moment we have together as a family.