Happy First Birthday!

I can't believe the day is finally here. I have spent all day thinking back to what I was doing last year this time. I look at him and I am amazed at how much he has grown and changed. When I think back to before he was born it's strange because I can't imagine a day when he wasn't around. I am experiencing the kind of torn emotions that I suppose characterizes much of motherhood. While I want my son to grow up and I want to see him reach new milestones in his life, I also want to keep him a wee little baby for as long as I can. He has, of course, decided that he is no longer a baby. As I look at Owen, I am so thankful for all of the wonderful things we've done together as a family... and thankful for each and every memory along the way. And, while the thought of him growing up and eventually leaving home is more painful than I can stand, I also look forward to all of the new memories yet to be made.

As I celebrate his first year of life I am aware that I am celebrating my first year of motherhood and our first year as a family. We have come a long way from those first few days home from the hospital. Those sleepless nights seem like a lifetime ago , yet I feel like it was just yesterday. It's really hard to believe an entire year has gone by already. In 12 short months he accomplished so much. My 7lb 14oz little guy is now a toddler. He's full of energy and curiosity that makes him so much fun. As much as I miss my little baby I am so excited for the wonder and joy of raising a toddler. I am really going to soak up the moments this year because now I know how fast it goes by. Happy birthday Owen!!

We spent a wonderful day together celebrating Owen's 1st birthday. Here are some of our memorable moments! We had his first birthday pictures made with a smash cake. All I can say is PRICELESS!

After we cleaned up from all the mess we tried on some new kicks! Since he is a big boy now we checked out the play area in the mall. However... I thought it was a little too dirty so we didn't stay long : )

Owen is very proud of his big boy shoes! Here he is doing his "I got some new shoes" dance!

Before he went to sleep we opened presents. Check out the look on his face. He loved this little people set from Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin.