Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Jude....Happy Birthday to you!!!!  Our little man is ONE, and yes it's hard to believe!!  He made it and so did we!! (haha)  I still look at him some days, and can't believe God blessed us with him.  He has brought nothing but joy into our home....his giggle and his smile has done nothing but teach us about the true miracle he is - that every child is.  There is something bittersweet about this milestone....at 6:22 pm last year he entered into this world, and left two people speechless.  I didn't know what it would feel like to have a child.  I still remember looking at him and not believing that he was ours - that we would really take him home with us!!  It seems like only yesterday we brought him home and I stayed in my pajamas days on end.  I wonder where the days have gone, but yet I have gotten to watch the little man he has become and is continuing to become.  There is something beautiful about having all these pictures...moments that have been frozen in time...moments and expressions that if forgotten, can be gazed upon.  As much as each one of us as mothers (and fathers) may be saddened by the fast pace of life, I try to embrace the days as they are - to embrace each moment I have to try and mold him into the man I pray he becomes.  One that is compassionate and kind, one that is faithful, and one that is strong in his beliefs.  In this dark world, we have to be the light, and I pray that he will continue to shine and light up the world as he has lit up our home and our hearts.  We look forward to what the next year has in store for us and for Jude.....but today we celebrate Jude and his precious life!! I took many pictures the other week in preparation for this special day and I want to share a "few" with you.......Happy Birthday Jude - may you have many more!!!  We love you!

I had to keep the little guy entertained with yogurt bites....hence, the reason his fingers are often in his mouth!  lol

"Yeah!  Who's ONE?? I am!!"

Jumping the fence..apparently trying to make an escape!  haha.

"Ok, mom, I've had enough of this hat!"

This glove was given to me by my late grandfather - it is something that will always be cherished.  I am only sorry he never had a chance to meet Jude.....

My guy!!

Time ticks away....