Actress Yasmien Kurdi took to social media to celebrate the first birthday of her younger daughter, Raya Layla, on Monday, April 28.
On Instagram, Yasmien expressed her joy and gratitude as she marked this special milestone with a heartfelt message and adorable birthday photos of Raya in a pink gown.
“Happy 1st birthday to my sweet girl! 🌸 Today, you look absolutely beautiful in your pink gown, just like the little princess you are. It’s hard to believe that it’s already been a year since I first laid eyes on your precious face. After waiting 11 years for you, it felt like my first pregnancy all over again, filled with excitement and joy,” Yasmien wrote.
The Kapuso actress described Raya as a source of constant joy, saying, “You are such a little bundle of joy and love, always wanting to be close to me, and I savor every snuggle and giggle we share. Your radiant smile lights up my days and fills my heart with happiness.”
Yasmien also highlighted the deep love Raya receives from their family.
“As we celebrate this special day, know that you are so deeply loved, my dear Raya. I can’t wait to create wonderful memories together with your Ate Ayesha Zara and Papa in the years ahead,” she added.
In another post, Yasmien explained the inspiration behind Raya’s name and their dragon-themed birthday photoshoot and celebration.
“Today, we celebrate you, Raya Layla, our family’s third dragon in the family 🐉, a beautiful green wood dragon. Just like Raya from ‘Raya and the Last Dragon,’ you embody strength and bravery,” the celebrity mom said, referring to the Disney character.
Yasmien revealed that both her daughters were born in the Year of the Dragon.
“Happy Birthday! As you grow alongside your sister, Ayesha Zara, our water dragon, may you both continue to bring peace and joy to our lives. It’s incredible to think you’ve filled our home with so much love in just one year! We are beyond grateful for you. Here’s to many more magical adventures ahead! 🐉,” she said accompanied with photos of their dragon-inspired birthday photoshoot.
She also shared that Raya was a long-awaited blessing, and a wish come true for her and husband Rey Soldevilla’s eldest daughter Ayesha.
“Ayesha Zara has always wished for a sister like you, and we’re so grateful to have you in our lives. It feels like I’ve known you forever, as if you carry the vibes of an old soul,” the loving mom wrote.
Yasmien also explained that their daughter's name was also a combination of hers, Rey’s and Ayesha’s.
“Your name, Raya Layla, beautifully combines 'Rey,' 'Ayesha,' and 'Yas,' while Layla is a heartfelt tribute to your great grandmother, from whom I learned so much about culinary wisdom. Together, they mean ‘Queen of the Night,’ just like your stunning blue gown,” she added.
Yasmien also expressed hopes that her daughter would grow up embodying the same strength, kindness, and bravery her grandmother once did.
“I cherish the strength, kindness, and bravery my grandma embodied, and I hope you grow to reflect those qualities. We waited for you, and you are such a precious gift to our family. We love you Baby Raya Layla 😘,” she stated.
The actress also posted a video compilation showcasing their family’s birthday traditions, capturing sweet moments from Raya’s first year.
“Happy 1st Birthday, Raya Layla! You’ve filled our hearts with so much joy! Here’s to many more beautiful moments ahead. We love you! 🎂,” Yasmien stated.
In April 2024, Yasmien previously shared her birthing experience with Raya. She revealed that she initially hoped for a natural birth but ultimately underwent a Cesarean section due to high-risk factors.
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In 2004, Yasmien rose to fame when she joined the reality talent competition show StarStruck.