Eleanor riding the birthday whale into her second birthday

Up close and personal with SO many butterflies, it was a magical birthday morning

Birthday hugs…

…followed by mom’s famous (birthday) blueberry muffins

Yeah, they’re that good.

Naturally.

It wouldn’t surprise anyone that she got up there all by herself.

Can you say “birthday envy?”

Aptly making a cake for sister

Exchanging family gifts, Des’ card

Pure joy upon opening her own Margaret Tiger stuffy

Combining two of her current passions- Margaret Tiger and putting any object to sleep with a blanket

She pretty much has stethoscopes figured out

New Daniel Tiger story book, and brother isn’t complaining

Let the wild, pink-spangled butterfly rumpus begin!

Reading with ma

…followed by asking grandma to read the exact same book again.

Grandma cheerleading taking bites with the slow/distracted eating crew

Weeks candle-blowing training comes down to one moment…

Nailed it!

Cake!

Saying good-bye to Ol’ Monkey Butt

The many faces of cake euphoria (during)

After cake, as you’d expect

All clean

Silly goose [mouseover/tap]

“Oh look,” the monsters shout. “It’s 6:08! Your present opening cannot wait!”

Cookie baking as a companion set to the much beloved tea set

Ella takes the same creative liberties to opening cards as she does bucking convention while eating sandwiches layer-wise

The birthday Hug of Thanks tour starting with grandpa

Kisses with ma

Cousin Cal, one of the finest huggers known east of 72nd st.

Dr. Des and Dr. Cal checking up on the llama patient

“It’s ok, her throat beat is strong!”