Jamus is 1 today. He survived. We survived. We survived pregnancy, labor, delivery, recovery. We survived being quarantined for 3 months due to H1N1 in our area. We survived spit up on our clothes, carpets, faces, everywhere. We survived buying and moving to a new house. We survived a pink nursery for the first 3 months and then a remodeling project that inevitably cost more and lasted longer than anyone expected. We survived one of the worst economies in the country. We survived first injuries and illnesses.
Ah, but it has all been so much fun! Watching the first smiles and being surprised by the first giggles. Cheering the first attempts to roll over and then crawl. Seeing the growing understanding in his eyes when we talk to him. Teaching him to clap, wave, sigh, and grunt. Hearing him say "da da" and knowing he meant it this time. Seeing the joy he brings to people everywhere he goes.
Ah, but it has all been so much fun! Watching the first smiles and being surprised by the first giggles. Cheering the first attempts to roll over and then crawl. Seeing the growing understanding in his eyes when we talk to him. Teaching him to clap, wave, sigh, and grunt. Hearing him say "da da" and knowing he meant it this time. Seeing the joy he brings to people everywhere he goes.I know having a child is the most natural thing in the world. You don't have to get a special degree or pass a grueling test. But when it's you and your child, it feels like you're inventing something completely new. It feels like you're the first person to ever love this much. It feels like your baby is the most adorable, the most sweet, the most special. It is a miracle and a gift.
Happy birthday, Jamus. We cannot wait to see what your 2nd year brings.
