Celebrating 1 Year Mickey Mouse Style

One year little mister. We've had you with us for one entire year. As I live this life I am amazed by time. How it can feel so long as you anticipate something or if things aren't going the way you would like them to. But as I reflect on a year, especially the one year that passes from that moment your newborn is placed in your arms, it's incredible how rapidly time seems to have passed. How it feels as if that sweet little soul has always been a part of yours. Hayze, you are sunshine and mischief. You seem to know it too. We love you little man and were so excited to celebrate your first year with you. You have amazing family near and far that love you so very much. As we celebrated we collected from them their hopes for you. Hopes for what you will learn, love, and know. These tender thoughts are being kept safe for you to open later. 

You weren't so sure about the whole opening presents business. Your sisters were ready to help you rush through them but you got distracted and decided it was lots more fun to play with uncle Tyson and the camera. You were hamming it up for the camera.  

 After your impromptu photo shoot you got back to the business at hand. You were so lovingly spoiled with toys and handsome clothes.

Forgive the selfie but I every now and then I have to prove that I was actually present. I love this sweet little man! He is so much fun and such perfect addition to our family. He's a little piece that we didn't know was missing, but now that he's here there would be a gigantic hole without him. 

 And now time for cake! 

We got you a delicious red velvet mini cake with cream cheese frosting. We had high hopes for you because a couple days earlier when we had your pictures taken you went to town on the cupcake.

 We were a bit disappointed. You just stared at it, picked at the frosting a little bit but that was all. Thankfully we had a cupcake left over from earlier and as soon as we put that down in front of you there was absolutely no hesitation. You new exactly what to do with it and started eating.

You ate your entire cupcake and then decided that the cake wasn't so bad and started to snack on it as well. You most definitely got your fair share of sweets that night. 

Nana got in on the celebrations via Face time. What a blessing technology is in our lives so we can share in one another's celebrations. 

Such a nice boy sharing with Grandpa. 

We officially declared this birthday a success!

And took you immediately to the tub.

Little Mister's 1-Year Photo Shoot

I'm not going to lie about the fact that I am completely in love with all of the pictures that were taken today! There are almost 100 and having to narrow them down has been painfully difficult. He was such a great sport, especially when we had to redo our entire first half due to some technical difficulties. I love this sweet little man and can't believe how quickly time has passed. On Friday, we will celebrate one year of having him in our family. I don't know what we would do without him! He brings so much love and laughter into our home. I love you my baby boy! Happy first birthday!

Tiny Testimony

Tonight we were driving home and out of the blue Mya said to me: "Mom, you know what?" "What?" "I love Jesus Christ because He's our Savior." I will admit to being a little taken back by this. But in the same instant my heart melted as we talked. We talked in simple terms about our love for Christ. I was able to ask her if she could feel the good feelings that I felt. I am so blessed. I have a sweet little spirit that was kind enough to choose me, imperfect as I am, to be her mother.

Welcome Home Uncle 'K'!!

We've waited 2 long years, watched these two ladies grow up and added another little one to the mix. Now it's time for Uncle McKay to come home from his mission! We are so proud of him! I admire his sacrifice and was blessed to watch him grow as he served the people of Sweden.

Don't let Sadie fool you, she was excited to have him home but was sick of mom, grams and great grandma taking her picture. She thinks she's smiling.

It was finally time! His plane had arrived! The waiting at this point became much harder, the girls proudly welcomed all passengers home with their signage.

But really, we just wanted Uncle 'K' to get here!

Finally! He made his appearance! He looked so great! It was sweet to see him drop his bag and go right to my mom and hug her. He completely forgot his carry on bag which was in the middle of the walkway, eventually I made my way out there and grabbed it so it would make it home with us.

Seeing his face when he saw the girls was priceless. They were so happy to have him home!

This cute girl was also pretty excited to have him home. No handshake for her.

My boys, back together. I love it!

Hugs for Dad.

Meeting somber Mr. Hayze for the first time. Little man was up way past his bedtime and not feeling very social so all Uncle 'K' got was a little wave and a scowl. 

Welcome Home!

We love you!!