Emilia's Third Birthday Party

Today we celebrated Emilia's birthday with our family.  We kept the party very small and rather short based on what we know our kiddos can handle at this time.  It was a fun extended lunch.

Setting up at a local park in terrific fall weather:

 Emilia chasing Cousin Michael:

Emilia chasing Cousin Colton:

Emilia on a mission known only to herself:

Emilia hanging out with Grandpa:

Lunch:

Cousin Will and Rex:

Opening presents (thanks, everyone, for the great gifts):

Time for cake.  Now this was a challenge for me because I had to keep it dairy-free for Emilia and gluten-free for Craig's step-mom.  I succeeded though with this moist chocolate cake with a layer of raspberry jam for filling and a simple chocolate ganache:

Emilia excited to try a slice:

 Emilia and Cousin Will:

Almost everyone in one shot:

We had a wonderful celebration and so enjoyed this special time with our family.  We're looking forward to many more birthdays.