Claire's two! Part three: grandparents are the best!

Claire's grandparents made a special visit from Saskatoon for Claire's birthday.

My mom arrived on Tuesday to help prepare for the celebrations and I'm so grateful she did! It was wonderful having her help before and during the kids' party especially. One of my favourite memories from the kids' party is Grandma handing out crackers to all the kids before lunch. Even the kids who tend to be more shy were approaching her for crackers. After Claire's nap later that day, Claire, Paul, my mom and I all went to the playground for some fun. Claire loved showing off her playground to Grandma. Check out Claire's big smile here on the teeter-totter!

Paul's parents arrived on Friday night. One of their presents for Claire became the centre of fun for the entire weekend (and for years in the future, I'm sure!): a wagon. Claire was so excited she didn't even bother using the door to get in!

Here are Paul, Joanne, Wally and Claire departing for the inaugural wagon ride:

I love this picture because Joanne is looking at Claire, who is smiling at Wally. Even though Wally isn't pictured, it's like his presence is felt because of Claire's smile.
On Saturday night, we had a party for Claire with a few of her favourite adults - ones she knows and loves well. She was a little overwhelmed by being the centre of attention so a few adults took turns playing with Claire in another room so that she would feel comfortable and be herself. Paul's mom Joanne played the longest downstairs with Claire, and Paul thinks it made Joanne's night.

Claire and Paul's dad also had lots of quality time together. The first night they arrived, she showed him her new dollhouse and all of its accessories. It was so sweet to see this big man next to Claire on the floor while they played. She really loves her Dido! Here they are together as Claire prepares to blow out her candles.


Thank you, grandparents, for making a special trip to see Claire on her birthday! Thank you also to our friends who attended the party Saturday night. It is so wonderful to see the love all of you have for Claire, and I know she feels it.