i'm back!

It's been a while...i know :( I've stayed away for way too long, and it is going to take some time for me to get back in the swing of things. I really wanted this space to document Aj's first year of life...but i didn't realize how much work it required. I envy all these bloggy mommas who have the time to take care of their children, work full time jobs, AND Blog. I'm so tired at the end of the workday...and yet, my day is just beginning when i come home to Aj. It's been a crazy couple of months, but i wouldn't change it. I've been savoring every single minute with him...and for that, i am grateful. Especially after Sandy...we are so grateful to have each other and that is all that matters. Our neighborhood got hit pretty bad, and it was really sad to see it. Anywhos! Let's talk about something HAPPY!

I do want to share a few things...a few details...and i guess the best way is through photos.

Aj's Birthday was December 15th. I wanted a small intimate gathering with immediate family and friends...and that is what we did. The planning process was easy, since i knew i wanted something to show off his FIRST YEAR of life....and since i had taken a photo of him every month on his Month-Birthday....i knew i wanted to incorporate all the pictures. I googled and came up with the theme "One year in a flash".
 I purchased the cards on ETSY from a seller MamaMoonlights! She was awesome. She even custom designed the card to match my theme exactly. Here is the finished product.

I was pretty happy with the results! I printed them at Walmart.com and only spent 8.00!!! Between the invite and the printing i only spent $24, which was pretty good---considering it is a custom design.Walmart did an OK job with printing, but the real work was the actual invite...so i was ok with the print job. We didn't get it on photopaper, but on cardstock, which i recommend. Gives it a finished look. I would recommend going this route if you want something done to look pretty close to professional. It was a fast turn around too! I got the invites in the mail within 5 days...so it was pretty painless.

I wanted to keep things simple and plain, since it was going to be held at my Father's house. I didn't want to go over board with decorating, since it wasn't my home, and it turned out pretty fantastic.

I did however hire a photographer (i found on craigslist) to photograph the event...and honestly, it was the best money i've ever spent. She captured the party perfectly and I am so happy that i hired her!!

Here are some shots of the day/night:

Anywhos! What has everyone else been up to? I've been keeping up with my reading, just not updating. Please post a comment to let me know you are all still there (all 22 of you!).

Soon i'm going to be posting about my new hobby, photography! I will show you how i took Aj's valentines day photos for under $1! :)