Exactly one year ago, the sweetest, most amazing little blessing came into our lives, and Patrick and I were forever changed for the best. Words can’t describe how eternally grateful I am to be a mom, let alone to such an incredible little guy. Every single day with Henry has been a joy, even the tough ones. I am so in love with his smirk, the way he grasps our necks when we hold him as though he was a little koala, how he knows so well how funny he is, the way he says “aaaah” after he takes a drink to let us know how refreshing it was, how he doesn’t like food on his face when he’s eating (serious swoon), the way he tucks his little arms in when he’s ready to cuddle with us…. I adore this kid more than I could ever have imagined. So yes, to answer your question, I have cried today. But, surprisingly not one tear of sadness that he is growing up, just very happy tears of gratitude to see my baby boy so happy and healthy.
We had such a great day. And although it was pretty hard being away from family and friends and not having the 1st birthday party I had once dreamed of for Henry, it was quite a nice day. We opened gifts throughout the day, went to the park, and Henry had Chipotle for dinner (it’s seriously his favorite). We sang to him and he had shortcake with strawberries, and now he is in bed. I think it was the perfect day for him, and I am just happy we got to be together as a family.
I’ll quick do a flashback, for sentiment’s sake. Henry’s birth day, July 11, 2011. It was incredibly hard, but I have such great memories of the whole day–even the tough parts.
Henry’s Aunt Teresa was in the room when he was born, and when we moved to Chicago, she recorded herself reading the book, On The Night You Were Born. We read it nearly every day, and I am so, so happy she was there that night. The book ends, with one of my favorite things to read to my son:
“For never before in story or rhyme (not even once upon a time), Has the world ever known you, my friend, And it never will, not ever again…Heaven blew every trumpet, And played every horn, On the wonderful, marvelous Night you were born.”
Starting with his newborn photo through 11 months. I can’t believe how much he’s changed, and yet, the same sweet smile!
Henry Huckleberry, July 2012.
And a few from our celebration today!
Henny needed some help from his Poppa with the candle (although he did not think so).
He enjoyed his birthday cake! It was strawberry shortcake because strawberries are his fave. 
He picked everyone out first.
I love you my little Huckleberry! Let’s not rush these next few years, okay?!