Frohes Geburtstag Penelope!

How does a German girl celebrate her first birthday?

With gummy bears, cupcakes and Prinzessen Lillifee, or course!

Well, maybe not the cupcake part. I searched high and low for cupcake ingredients in Heidelberg, and this is what I finally came up with: muffin mixes and a very expensive container of imported frosting. 

We gathered our Heidelberg friends for a picnic on the banks of the Neckar. Unfortunately, Penelope was the only attendee under 23, but she didn't mind. She likes to roll with the big kids, and all the more attention for her.

Princess P wasn't too fond of her Lillifee party crown.

Penelope liked the candles and the singing, but she wasn't quite sure what to make of the cupcake.

She wasn't sure if it was something to play with or something to eat.

But after some exploration and watching the big kids show her what to do...

...she dug in.

Mmmmm!

Penelope got lots of fun gifts.

Even a classic children's book in German.

After the presents we played some party games. The Father narrowly beat Joe in the balloon race.

Then we came back to the apartment for some more celebrating. Penelope was particularly fond of her new German baby doll.

All in all the party was a success. We missed sharing the big day with our family and friends back home, but we're thankful our Heidelberg friends could be there.

One wonderful year down, lots more exciting ones to come!