Well, it's official (as of 11 days ago), my little baby is now a moderately sized toddler. We celebrated his first birthday on October 14th and again on the 16th with a slightly larger crowd. I think he had fun. He threw up at one point which I take as the ultimate sign someone is having a great time. It may have also had something to do with the large quantity of mac and cheese he ate. Our boy loves food that incorporates cheese. And also just food.
I can't believe that our little boy is one. It seems like yesterday we were living in Kansas and preparing for his arrival. I remember the day before. Getting the call that my doctor had swine flu and would be replaced by another OB (I was okay with that since the outcome was still me becoming unpregnant). Picking Mom and Pop Hunter up at the airport. Trying to fall asleep that night even though I was over the moon excited to meet our boy.
The morning of the blessed event I woke up at 4:30am due to incredible excitement/anxiety/thirst. Mom and Pop came over for breakfast. I didn't eat since I had surgery scheduled for 11:30. I just watched longingly as they sipped their waters. We all went to the hospital at 10 and I got set up for surgery-gowned, IVed, briefed of every way I could die during a routine C-section (apparently I was giving informed consent. I just thought our anesthesiologist was an incredible pessimist). We rolled into the OR at 11:30 and 15 minutes later we heard a nurse say "That baby's got a round head!" Then we heard his cry. He cried for 10 seconds and then was peaceful. He didn't cry again for 3 days with perfectly portrays his laid back personality although at the time we thought he might be broken. He wasn't. He was perfect. The first time I laid eyes on him, all I could see was Joel. Then he went through an Alfred Hitchcock phase but now he looks like Joel again which is good.
Son, I love you so much. I never imagined I could have so much joy in my life. Our days are blessed because of your smile, your laugh, your obsession with tupperware and your naturally curly hair. I still can't believe I get to be your mom. I can't wait to continue helping you become the man God has called you to be. That man will surely be an incredible one. And a handsome one. And a brilliant, dexterous, charitable, eloquent and temperate one. That is good with children.
I love you kiddo. Happy birthday plus 11 days.
The first time I held my boy.


Current photo-Playing in the tupperware cabinet. What a genius.