Darwin Evolves.

[Camilla and Darwin]

Darwin turned one this weekend, and it was a blast! I'm waiting on some photos from his doggy party, but I thought I'd share the family party... so this is installment 1.

I can’t believe how gradually the change was, this “tiny” 16lb puppy transforming into this "monstrous" (so I’m told) 62lb ball of fluff. I used to be able to pick him up easily… now well… not so much. Where he used to be small enough that he could fit on my lap in the car… now he can barely fit in the backseat! When we brought him home he was about 13″ tall, now he’s 25″ and still growing. Jacob and I have truly enjoyed watching him grow up, mentally and physically. (Don’t tell Darwin, but he’s got a lot more growing to do in the first category…)

I finally got the dog I always dreamed of, and he is seriously, the best. My entire life I wanted a dog, and now I finally have one. When I used to long for a dog, it was all frivolous things. What would he look like, what color his collar would be, what I would name him, etc. I had absolutely no experience, and the reality and responsibility of owning a dog is so much more rewarding than I would have guessed. I have loved learning the reality of taking care of Darwin, and have learned SO much about dogs that I didn't know.

So, his one year birthday was getting close, and I knew I had to throw a party. I desperately tried to work it out so that I wouldn’t look crazy…. But who are we kidding? Everyone knows I’m crazy. I just accepted it and went wild. I planned his party for months. I sent out invites to his doggy friends, and we set up a party at the dog park. It was really fun, and as soon as I get the photos I will post on that. Then, we went to my mom and dad’s house, and what did they have? A whole bag of goodies for Darwin’s birthday! Check out the cute photos. Oh, and Darwin was WAY too excited to see my sister to sit still, so it was hard to get very good photos. :-)

His Birthday Invite:

Just back from playing and getting dirty at the dog park party.

Darwin with my sister, who he LOVES.

Darwin made off with one of his presents, refusing to pose for a decent photo. :-)

Staring contest with my nephew over who is the cuter grandchild.

He had a GREAT birthday! We love you Darwin.

Stay tuned for part 2, the dog park party!

[ej]

Happy 1st Birthday Darwin! You are simply adorable! And your mommy is so cool! ;)

[Laura & Chewie]

Happy Birthday, Darwin. Looks like you had a great time.

[Linda, Webber and Seda]

Happy first Birthday, Darwin. You are such a handsome dude. Your friend, Webber

[Carole (*Koda*Monty*Bindi)]

What great pictures! Fun was had by all it appears! Happy Birthday D-man!

[Nina, Phil, Harlow & Lacey]

Happy B'day Darwin.

[Denise & Hunter!!!]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Darwin!!! You looked like such a big, handsome boy for your party!! We can't wait to see more photos! You are very lucky to have such a crazy about you mommy!

[F, Calla & Luca]

Happy BD, what fun!

[Leslie and Halas]

Happy Birthday, Darwin! Your mom is doodle-crazy, but on DK, crazy is a good thing!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Happy Birthday, Darwin...you great big, gorgeous Doodle boy! Looks like the family party was a blast....too bad nobody loves you????

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Darwin is adorable! Looks like he had a great day. I can't wait to see the rest of the pictures.