It feels like you have only just arrived, I still think of you as a little baby in most ways, but life without you seems so distant a memory too. You are the baby we didn’t know we needed to complete our family and tomorrow my tiny boy, you turn one.
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You may have no idea what a birthday is but your siblings definitely do. Cora told everyone we saw in the supermarket today when we were out buying party food that it was your birthday tomorrow. The boys ask about what you want, who your friends are and whether you will be allowed some cake and every one is is getting excited whilst you remain oblivious. Being the youngest of five means there are a lot of people delighted about your milestones.
A year ago I had no idea you were about to arrive, I thought I had a few more days still. You were born on Saturday evening after a very quick labour and you were just perfect. 7lb 13oz of healthy baby boy, you looked like all your siblings and completely unique at the same time. You were alert, you took me in as I memorised every part of you and I remembered how quickly a heart can grow.
This year you have changed from that tiny baby who just needed to be held to a much bigger baby who still needs to be held. You feel safest in my arms and we still haven’t spent more than about 3 hours apart. You still rely heavily on breastmilk and you have no intention of sleeping anywhere other than in my bed for the foreseeable future. You are a complete Mummy’s boy, although your love for music means Daddy is becoming much more interesting. You press all the buttons on the speakers to let us know you want a tune and then bounce up and down dancing in delight when we turn something on. You are inquisitive, cheeky and determined.
I thought you would be early to walk as you were crawling and cruising by 9 months old but you have no interest in taking unaided steps yet. You are much more interested in crawling up the stairs as fast as you can, giggling all the way and making sure someone is chasing you up. You say Dadada and Mamama and something that sounds a lot like no. You love music with your Daddy but with me you love books (two very happy parents if this continues). You have 8 teeth and the dribbling is starting back up again so I am sure there are more to come.
As your birthday falls on a weekend, we are having a party on the day. After your siblings have helped you explore your birthday gifts, we will head to the same hall where Archie and Finn had their first birthday and we will share cake with the people that love you. I can’t wait to celebrate what a little boy you are becoming, but before that moment I need to stop and take in everything you are now. The tiny boy curled up beside me as I write this is only going to get bigger, smarter and more independent and whilst the days might seem long at times, I know how lucky I am to get to spend them with you in my arms. On your last night as an 11 month old, I want to give you an extra cuddle, a bonus kiss and let you know how loved you are.
Tomorrow my tiny boy, you will be one!
