Kaylin and mommy having a blast at the zoo. 

Kaylin with the seals. 

Kaylin, cake and candle. 

Kaylin' 

Got milkshake? 

Sleeping in the van. 

Look where I'm not supposed to be. 

Kaylin and me while a jealous Skylar looks on. 

Celebration of Life

We have recently gone through some changes, all of which have been for the better. In early June, my Escort kicked the bucket. It really was a long time coming and I am thankful it lasted as long as it did. The end result was making a life-altering decision. We officially became 'parents' when we purchased a Chrysler Town and Country 3 weeks ago. It's fun to drive around and remember how we swore we'd never be seen in a minivan. It definitely makes traveling with a one year old a lot easier.

Which brings me to my next point, we celebrated Kaylin's 1st birthday last week. Time sure does fly and it was nice for me as a father to reflect on the past year and all that my daughter has brought to my life. She really does know how to brighten up my spirits and she has me wrapped around her little finger. On Sunday we had a birthday party at our house to commemorate the first anniversary of our little princess' birth. I had a great time and I hope all who attended did as well.

We took Kaylin to Brookfield Zoo yesterday for the second time. Her first time was last August at the tender age of two months. Needless to say this visit provided her (and us) more entertainment than the last. One of the most amazing things about parenthood is getting the opportunity to experience things for the first time all over again. Take, for instance, the zoo. I've been there many times but this time I was able to enjoy the greatness of God's creation in a new way. Most of the animals were already seen by Kaylin on DVD, but the live show allowed her to see them in a new light. There is no substitute for reality.