Cradle Catholic

A year ago and only 2 1/2 weeks old, Andrew and I had Harper baptized in the Catholic Church.  Since being married, Andrew became a full member of the Catholic Church when he was Confirmed in 2016.  It is important to both of us, that Harper is raised in the Catholic Church and learns to love her faith just as we do.  We encourage her to find her own way, but we will be there supporting her and giving her all the resources that she needs. 

We chose to have her baptized so young because Andrew's mom was here for a visit and since she is so far away we thought it would be special to have her involved in such an important event.  Harper can definitely consider herself a cradle Catholic.

Harper's gown was made by my friend Cheryl, completely out of my wedding gown! I love how simple, yet gorgeous it turned out.  I also love that my wedding gown was repurposed instead of sitting in a box and taking up space in the back of a closet (I never actually had my gown cleaned after our wedding - oops) I dream that the gown can and will be used for any future babies we may have and then be handed down for a few generations.  Side Note: this was a very small portion of my dress and I have a few more ideas for the rest of the material 😉 

Isn't it stunning?

  My sister, Anne accepted the responsibility of being Harper's only Godparent.  When I learned that I was pregnant one of my first thoughts was, "Who is going to be Harper's Godparents?" We don't have really close friends that are Catholic, and unfortunately not many family members that are practicing Catholics.  We wanted someone that was practicing, would be present in Harper's life, and most of all would be a great Catholic example. 

For a few years Anne stepped away from the Catholic Church to find her place for herself.  I admire her for taking that time for herself, because although I've had my moments, that Catholic guilt is real and always got the best of me.  So maybe not the best, but I had my moments where I was just going through the motions.  Fast forward to when we found out we were expecting in January of 2018 and unbeknown to be, Anne had starting going to church again.  It felt like it was an answer to an unspoken prayer.  Of course I had dreamed of my sister and even brother being Godparents to my children and when that felt like it wasn't possible I just felt lost.  I love that my sister, and best friend, can full-fill this role in my daughters life.

Godmother, Parents, and Father O'Keeffe

After the ceremony we held a small reception for the family that joined us.  Since Harper was so young, Andrew and I made the decision to not pass her around, so I strapped on the baby carrier and she slept while we ate and talked.  It was a beautiful day, but being so new to parenthood, completely exhausted, and overwhelmed and nervous that Harper cried during most of the ceremony, it feels more like a blur than I would like to admit.  I'm thankful for everyone that made the trip to St. Alphonsus Ligouri in Zionsville on this beautiful Saturday to be part of this very special day.

My mom's brother and his family

My mom's youngest brother and his family

My mom's dad. Harper is his first great-granddaughter

My mom's sister and her husband

My two youngest cousins

Can't beat Costco cake!

Thank you for taking the time to be here, it means the world to have your support.  I hope you all have a blessed day and week. 

One.

One year ago... 
I looked into your eyes for the first time.
I got to hold you in my arms, after carrying you inside for 40+ weeks.
I kissed your cheeks over and over (and haven't stopped).
I nursed for the first time.
I changed your first diaper.
I was overwhelmed with emotions and had no idea it was just the beginning.
One year ago you changed my life.

But...

Today, we celebrate that day and all of the months in between  ...because let's be honest in that first year of life, for a first-time-parent, every month is a milestone worth celebrating.

     
Today, we celebrate our ONE-ermelon!

One-in-a-melon is right!

I had a blast planning her party, thinking through all of the details and seeing it all come together.  I couldn't have done it without the help of Andrew, my mom, sister and aunts.  From the party invites to watermelon soap and towels in the bathrooms, everything was touched by this sweet melon.   

We held Harper's party at my parents house on September 28 and family joined us from near and far.  Our bellies were filled with a few of Harper's favorite foods, but our hearts were overflowing with love and gratitude.  

Grab your favorite drink and maybe a snack and enjoy!   

Invitations designed by me

How many watermelon seeds would your up have?

Even the pens were watermelon colors

Costco cake for the win, cupcake by me!

From newborn to 12 months

Cake Time

If her hands can get messy, you can forget her picking it up.

Andrew and I were helping Harper open her presents so of course I have no pictures, but she sure loves a present and love, love, LOVES clothes.  I often finding her crawling around with a random piece of clothing.  I can't decide if this is a good thing or not so soon?!

Now for a few pictures of Harper's people.  So thankful for these people (and many others that couldn't make it), that show her love, give mom and dad a helping hand from time to time and just enjoy watching her learn and grow, we love you!

Mom and Dad of the birthday girl! (You KNOW I had to have fun shirts)

Nana Angela came all the way from Wales for the celebration

Harper playing with her cousins

Parents & grandparents
From left to right: Packer PawPaw, Grammie, Mom, Harper, Dad, Nana

Harper's Auntie Bananie & Uncle Matt

Admiring her new party hat

Just look at that sweet face

This vintage stroller is Harper's favorite, especially when daddy runs as fast as he can down the driveway with her

Outfit change

Sharing a sweet moment with her daddy at the end of the day.

Don't let her size fool you, she is mighty.

Happy Birthday, my baby girl.  Bring on year two...