Happy Birthday Raiden!!

I can not believe it has already been a year. I keep thinking this over and over again. At this time last year, I was just about to be admitted into my labor and delivery room at St. Joseph's Hospital, and Ryan and I were still in shock that our son was going to be born that day. I remember that it didn't even feel real, and that my brain was kind of in a cloud the whole day. Yes, even as I was having contractions. I think to meet my son and become a mother for the first time was the ultimate Mother's Day gift! And of course it was an amazing gift to be put out of my bed rest misery so early, and to have my son come out perfectly healthy all at the same time.

Yesterday we had a fun birthday party for Raiden in our new semi-finished backyard. It was a lot of fun and Raiden only cried once- when we were cleaning up the cake that his daddy smeared in his face. Ha! He got so many fun toys and it meant a lot to be able to spend the day with those closest to us, and those who have been so involved in Raiden's life. But I am glad it is over. And we probably won't be doing it again until his 8th birthday. You think I am joking, but I am not. ;)

Here are a few pictures- grandpa Ray will be sending more, so I'll be sure to post them!

Our little family

My little brother and I made this cake. It was fun!

Cake time: he didn't want to get messy...

...

So mean old daddy rubbed it in his face...

and then he realized it was tasty...

...but why is everyone watching me??

With aunt Becky