[simage=195,200,n,center,]

Kayden Riley, you are the most amazing little girl in the whole world! From the day you arrived, you have filled our lives with joy and hearts with warmth. It’s truly amazing that we have had a whole year with you. You have taught me more about life and what’s really important than you will ever know. I remember our first months together and wondering if life would ever go back to ‘normal’, whatever that was. I thought the lack of sleep might send me right over the edge! Now, I find myself missing you while you sleep. Thank you dear Kayden for making our lives richer. You are the most important thing in our world. We love you always!

[simage=3995,200,n,center,]

Now on to the festivities! We had such a wonderful day celebrating Kayden’s first birthday. The day started off with a breakfast date. We went to a new place for us and enjoyed a hearty breakfast. Kayden shared some eggs, toast, and home potatoes. My girl sure does love to eat!

[sthumbs=4003|3997,160,2,n,center,]

After breakfast we packed up the car and headed to the beach. Kayden had a great time playing in the sand (only tasting the sand once or twice), digging with her shovel, throwing her toys off the towel, and having a picnic lunch.

[sthumbs=4008|4011|4013|4015|4017|4033,160,3,n,center,]

… But her most favorite part the day was when daddy burried her!

[sthumbs=4022|4021|4023|4025|4026|4027|4028|4029|4030,160,3,n,center,]

After a long day at the beach and a short nap on the car ride home, we hit up Dairy Queen for some ice cream! I was adamant that Kayden would not have sweets until she was at least a year old. I was just as adamant that Kayden would not eat her first cake until her party, which isn’t until Saturday. We decided that ice cream was the best birthday treat that fit in my strict guidelines! She loved daddy’s ice cream sundae and REALLY loved mommy’s chocolate blizzard!

[sthumbs=4048|4049|4052|4055|4056|4061|4062|4064|4067,160,3,n,center,]

We had such a fantastic day today celebrating Kayden joining our family! We are so looking forward to Kayden’s birthday party on Saturday when we can celebrate with our family and friends! 🙂