Raph's 2nd Birthday Celebration

This was his first year that he sort of "got it" when it came to gifts.  The fun really starts now!

After each gift was opened Raphael found the giver and gave them a hug.  I wish I had better shots of those dear embraces.

Andres was a good helper, and if Raphael got a little too distracted by a gift, Andres would grab him by the arm and drag him to the giver, demanding he say thank you and give hugs.

It always amazes me how well our tiny home accommodates friends and family for events like this.  

"Okay boys look at me a smile!...Thanks, Grandpa, you were the only boy that followed the directions."

My goodness he's so handsome.  I can't believe that he's two already.  He's such a precious little guy.

I love his lips pursed and cheeks puffed out, working so hard to take out that candle.

Aaron teased by saying Raph looked like the joker with that frosting all over.

Granparents Villanueva with Papa and Raph

Chilling with Papa Mano in the yard.

Aaron says his dad had really curly hair too.  I know for a fact that musician gene comes down from Papa Mano, too.  So the beat goes on.

Portrait time. 

Nailed it.

I love seeing Aaron with his boys.  We never ever thought we'd have a boy, let alone two of them.  It's a beautiful thing witnessing my wonderful husband as a superb father.

My grandpa has untreatable cancer, and it was a joy for him to make the trip down with my dad and Karen for the wee celebration in Raphael's honor.  Grandpa just loves being a great grandfather.  When I was little this stoic old cowboy wouldn't say five words to me in a year, and here he is tenderly helping Raph get his new sandals on.

Another portrait!

Nailed it!