April First Birthdays: Awesome First

This past week my daddy, Ayden's G-Daddy, told Ayden that his prayer for him had always been that he would know he is loved. I believe there is no question as to whether or not Ayden is aware of the love others feel for him. He is uplifted in prayers, enveloped in affection, showered with attention, and spoiled with toys, clothes, and other baby "necessities." We are joyfully overwhelmed by the love others so willingly give Ayden.

G-Daddy got me to say his name, though it sounded more like "Chu Dada."

I like to turn the pages... or beat on them like a drum.

Ayden's G-Daddy and Grancee came to love on Ayden in celebration of his first birthday (April 19th). G-Daddy came bearing a barn toy chest that he had created for my brother and me when we were Ayden's age. Ayden enjoyed sitting inside the barn, and we were reminded of how my brother and I played inside. G-Daddy also took Ayden shopping and purchased a tiger riding toy and a longhorn WubbaNub (Ayden's 14th WubbaNub friend!). Ayden didn't quite know what to think about riding his tiger, though he did like playing with its tail!

The theme for Ayden's first, first birthday was music. Ayden bobbed to the Imagination Movers concert while Grancee unveiled maracas, a bell, and CDs for the car. Ayden also got Elmer the Elephant and accompanying book, as well as a dumptruck of MegaBlocks. Though he is intrigued by all of his gifts and is learning how to play with them (today we had a blast with the truck & blocks), I think the bell is his favorite; he certainly likes to eat it and then shake it between bites.

Grancee also brought Ayden's first birthday cake, resembling a Journey record single "Don't Stop Believin'." I was thrilled with how Ayden played in the cake. He spent most of his time digging his feet in the sides, but he got some excellent finger smudging in as well. He especially enjoyed smearing the icing on the blanket.

Grancee says I'm "awesome."

G-Daddy is modeling icing tasting.

G-Daddy and Grancee made the occasion very special. Every day I become increasingly aware of how exceptional they are as parents and grandparents. I am grateful for the role they play in our family; they joyfully give and serve so often and so willingly. I am humbled by their generous love.

Tonight I told Ayden that our collective love for him couldn't amount to the love his Heavenly Father had for him. G-Daddy doesn't ever have to worry about Ayden feeling loved. Knowing that is truly AWESOME.