. . .like it's 1999

10 years is a long time, but it doesn't seem so long ago that AP entered our world. I remember the anticipation, the excitement, and even apprehension. It was a rough delivery. I decided not to have an epidural, which wouldn't have been too bad except he ended up posterior and kept getting stuck. So I had to push five very long hours. By the time he came I was so exhausted, I was falling asleep between pushes. And then there he was. Even with his cone head, he was perfect and wide awake; so alert, so aware, and so ready to go. He brought with him a zest for life that still amazes me. His newborn eyes were those of one well-lived, not someone just starting out. I remember looking into those clear, bright eyes for the first time and sensing he knew exactly where he was, and what he was doing here. He was up all night that first night (and many after). Even then I think he was worried he might miss something if he went to sleep. He has taught me so much, and I am grateful for the things I have learned and continue to learn as his mother. Today we celebrate him, and we're going to party like it's 1999!

Birthdays at our house start with family presents at breakfast:

Imponderables from Uncle Spence

AJ gave him her prized collectors edition gold pokemon card

This wooden snake from Grandpa & Grandma is a nice replacement for HUGZ

These pickles are also from my parents; they obviously know the way to his heart

He requested a silly party this year; complete with meatloaf cake (a repeat from April Fools-- although this one didn't turn out as pretty)

Cheesecake pizza as dessert

Some of the silly costumes

Silly string attack!!