a birthday book

In the tradition of copying great ideas, Elisabeth and I made a fabric book for James's birthday. (I am a firm believer in the "imitation is the fondest form of flattery" concept.)

Most of the photography is Elisabeth's; those that she did not take herself were selected by her, and she dictated the captions under each photo. One thing I learned in this process is that my sewing machine is not intended for quilting. However, it was great fun to select the fabrics, and though I haven't done very much sewing in the last ... well ... ever, it was exciting that some of the pages used fabric from things I've made for James, like the cushions from his high chair & a couple pairs of pants.

It was so cute when he'd see a picture in the book, and then look around the house for the person or object (or doggy) shown in it, and he'd just laugh, and look back and forth between them, and laugh some more.

These are my two favorite pages. Nursing is so very important to James & me; it is really a special time for us to connect, which I'm finding feels even more vital with this second wee one of mine. And do you see what Elisabeth had me write under the right-hand page? "This is you, and I love you." Awwww.

And, although these photos have nothing to do with the book, I really had to share them:

He really loves grabbing those candles. Eeek!

Because picking up pieces of the cake with his fingers would have been a waste of time. ;) He was so surprised when we all laughed at him for doing this, but then he bent his head right down to do it some more!

Oh, and I do have to recommend this cake recipe -- it's the Applesauce Cake from this book. Very wholesome, and oh-so-yummy. We have enjoyed this cake on many a first (and second ... and 30-something) birthday with friends. I really had to do an icing this time (second child and all), and since James & I are allergic to dairy, I did a Seven Minute Frosting which was beautiful and fluffy when I made it 40 minutes before icing the cake, and flat, goopy, and a bit marshmallow-y when I actually put it on. When the recipe says "use immediately", I think it probably means it. Oh, well. It tasted good. ;)

Comments

[Gwyn]

Yes - the book idea is truly cool - and you did an amazing job - he will love that as a treasure one day - if he doesn't eat it as a toddler that is!

[rose]

A special birthday and an extra special present....yes imitation is the greatest form of flattery but this book is unique to JJ and made with love from u and Elle.......how special!!! Happy 1st Birthday Little Man!!!

[Jennifer]

It's so precious! I was hoping we would be able to see it. I love the nursing photo. It breaks my heart that I was too embarassed to let anyone photograph me nursing my babies. It was such a special time. So can I steal the idea from you now?? :)

[kirsten]

wow - that book is gorgeous. nice job! i like the fabric you used and that elle was involved with making it.

[Tricia]

Your photos are so inspiring. I looove the crowns. Makes me want to dust off that sewing machine.

[Sheree]

Awwww....what a great gift I especially like the comments below the photos- so sweet! And that nursing photo is adorable.

[heather]

beautiful, eveything. i love the head first approach to eating cake, very efficient.

[Mohda]

The book is beautiful. I like that Elle chose the pictures and the words, she seems on the road to crafty like her talented mama! The nursing photo brought tears to my eyes.

[patience]

What a beautiful book, beautiful children, beautiful family spirit. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.

PS, my daughter always grabbed the (burning) candles on her birthday cakes!

[Anne]

They grow so quickly.....hope your day was wonderful!

[Stephanie]

very adorable book! I'll have to amke one for my kidlet who just turned one!

[Stephanie]

very adorable book! I'll have to make one for my kidlet who just turned one!

[sarah]

thanks for turning me on to the perfect cake for little people! we so enjoyed it at our first birthday party this weekend.

[LeOgAhEr]

I Love you girls

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