Monday, October 04, 2010

One

I remember sitting in a mom and baby class when Critter was just six weeks old and wondering if either of us were going to survive until he was six months. Last week, we celebrated Critter's first birthday. Not only have we survived, but on most days we have thrived. It has been a blessing getting to know this little man that God in His infinite grace and mercy has blessed us with. 

I don't know what I thought before I had Critter, but I think I assumed that I would just know my son not that I would need to get to know him. Well, I have definitely had to get to know him and continue to do so each day. What I can say about this special boy is that he is strong in spirit and in personality. 

He loves to laugh, wrestle, and explore. His Daddy is his hero (and mine). He is bright, loves music and playing with balls. He loves his dog, airplanes, birds and insists on touching all the trees and bushes that we walk by. He loves food and eats whatever we are eating (for this I am very thankful). He is full of life and adds so much to ours.

We celebrated his actual birthday with Nani, Grandpa and Aunt Kristy at the beach for the afternoon. The next day, we had a party at Tim's Aunt and Uncle's place in Templeton. Activities included lots of toy time, a zip line and a trampoline not to mention exploring in the trees. The highlight of the evening was Critter's reaction to his first cupcake - he gagged multiple times. He also managed to wipe most of the frosting all over his chest, face and hair. Critter was blessed by so many people who love him. As parents, Tim and I were blessed to see Jude surrounded by friends and family who love him and support us as we stumble along raising him.

As I look back I cannot believe how quickly the year has gone. My infant has become a jabbering toddler with a will of  his own. I am looking forward to what lies ahead, but also think back fondly (and not-to-fondly sometimes) to what we have come through this year.

Happy Birthday, my sweet Son. I love you more than I could have ever known. And just think, Jesus loves you even more!