Last weekend I had the pleasure of photographing “Princess T.” and her book-themed first birthday party.  Family came from all over– her super-sprie 90-year old great grandma even flew in from Wisconsin, and grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends little and big all came to celebrate.  I often think that first birthday parties are more for the parents surviving the first year than for the child, however, in this case, the celebration was really about baby T. triumphing through surgery and other complications from the special needs she has because of her Downs Syndrome.   And what a triumph and gift she is!  She literally melted my heart the moment I met her– and it wasn’t just because of her cute pettiskirt and personalized birthday top.  She is just a beautiful baby girl.  The community that the family has is amazing, so much love and joy and support…it made for a truly beautiful day.   Even when it began to rain and hail in Calabasas, the weather provided additional ways to play and for the guests to enjoy themselves and their company.  I also have to say that the entertainment (which was moved under a covered patio) was fabulous– the songs, music, puppets, instruments, story time and parachute were a blast for the kids of all ages.  And baby T. had her first sugar while having her cake and eating too.  E. family I am so thankful that it worked out for me to photograph your party and I wish you a fantastic 2nd year with baby T. and many many more to come.