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!

[Rose]

Happy Birthday, Darwin! What a handsome dood, you are! Love your party pics!

[Michele, Biscuit & Mo]

Happy Birthday, Darwin! You are a gorgeous boy... and you deserve that big party you had!

[cheryl & oliver]

Darwin you are sucha handsome dood!!!!....I am sure your Mommy made sure that you had the best birthday, the pictures are just so cute....I can't wait to see more pictures and stories from your birthday party at the park.!!!...Happy Birthday Darwin from your friends here in Florida....Oliver, Renny & Mom, Cheryl

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Happy happy birthday! you sure are one lucky dood to have a family that loves you so much. What a fun looking pawtee!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Happy Birthday, Darwin! You have brought so much happiness to your mom & dad, and I personally love seeing your adorable face & hearing about your adventures! You are one great, lucky doodle!