Ok, so it’s the day I’ve been mentally preparing for.  I’ve struggled whether I should share this here – it is a private decision – but in the spirit of honesty (and in the event any of you might choose to do the same thing) I’ll spill it. Last spring I took Charlie to this really cute mother/daughter tea.  There were tons of silent auctions – from date nights in hotels to spa days – and one in particular caught my attention.  It was for a boudoir photography session.  Yes, I said it.  Boudoir. What is that, you may be wondering?

The dictionary defines it as “a woman’s bedroom or private sitting room”.  It’s basically a sassy photography session – you, lingerie (or not), meant for the eyes of your loved one. 

I’ve heard of it before – even known a girl who did it – and I was intrigued but I walked away and bid on something else.  I couldn’t get it out of my head though…I mean, when (other than your wedding day) do you have the opportunity to feel like a supermodel?  Especially when you’re covered in baby goo most of the time? I’ve never done this before but I’ve certainly had my share of having my headshot taken, here (good heavens, who is this skinny girl???!!!!): and here: Mix in a couple other times and a smattering of modeling experience and oh yeah, my bridal portrait: aaand that’s my history with the camera.  I’ve had my hair and makeup done and felt pampered for the day.  But, all with my clothes on – only by the grace of God, I always say! I’m really surprised I had the chutzpah to walk back over to the table and put my name down to win the boudoir session.  And guess what?  I must have been the only gal brave enough because I won it and scheduled it back in the summer and now we’re HERE.  It’s TODAY. So I had this mental breakdown earlier in the week (um, who wouldn’t??) about what to wear/buy/bring and finally settled on a couple (I think) good options.  I’m walking into this COMPLETELY blind.  And it’s a good thing they serve free champagne because I have a feeling I’m going to be needing a lot of it. Wish me luck!

Have you ever seen a cake this cute???  Our celebration for little E was a quiet one this year – just Mimi and Poppy and the four of us – lots of red pom-poms and balloons and this stellar Elmo cake from Tart Pastry Boutique & Studio here in Dallas.  My sweet friend Michelle came through for me in a huge way – all I did was send her a picture from Pinterest and she completely took over from there.  And the best part??  The inside was vanilla cake with strawberry filling.  Uh, what?? Maybe someday my dream of making my own cake will be realized.  For now, I’ll just leave it to the experts. You’ll be happy to know that Ella is now caught up to other kiddos her age.  She still has some communication issues (as in, should have more words by this point and should be using more two word phrases) and will continue to receive early childhood intervention (ECI) services for those.  Cognitively and in every other way she is officially 2.  Pretty great progress for our little peanut since this time last year. Happy birthday to my sweet, spunky, and recently snuggly (yay for me!) 2 year old!!