Birthday Girl!!

Today was Ashlyn's birthday! It's hard to believe one year ago today I was giving birth to her. I didn't even know if she was a boy or girl or what she looked like. Now I can't imagine life without my little munchkin!

Her birthday was filled with the three things she loves: good food, horseback riding and the ocean.
For breakfast she had a banana pancake for breakfast with extra banana on the side. (She's a banana-holic.) I also made her a pineapple cake that she really liked. I was trying to make a semi-healthy cake, but it ended up being full of sugar. Oh well.


After cake and presents we went the camp and I took her for a half an hour horseback ride. She never grew tired of it! She is such a serious rider, all quite and concentrated but seems to be fearless! She only talks when she sees a cow or something else that catches her interest. You have no idea how elated I am that she likes riding.

In the evening we went to the ocean and played in the waves. We had supper at one of the restaurants on the beach.

It was a late night and a big day but I think she had a good time. Yesterday I was feeling a little guilty being overseas and not having a "normal" birthday party for her. But I think she enjoyed today more than she would have a party.
Thanks to everyone who sent presents for her. It means a lot to be remembered even though we are so far away!