Dear Corben: One

Dear Corben,

It's been too long, and it's almost to late, but here I am in the nick of time to say Happy Birthday.

*Cough* 2 weeks ago *cough* you turned one.

One. Dude, that's huge!

I don't even know what to say about it...you've developed into such a little PERSON over the past few months and it has been so much fun getting to know you.

You are happy. Everyone remarks on it. "Wow, that is one happy baby!" I hear it all the time. (Actually, what they often say, is "that is one happy little girl," which may be an indicator that it's time for me to cut your hair, but I flat out refuse, it's not even open for discussion, so lets not even talk about it.) In the weeks since your birthday you've gone from crawling mostly everywhere to being a full out walker. Last Sunday I was in the laundry room and turned around to see you walk in the door...that's going to take a little bit of getting used to! Your steps are still hesitant, and there's a little bit of the cutest little side shuffle going on, but I'm guessing it won't be long until you're giving Griffin a run for his money around this place!You are so easy to understand...you communicate SO well for a kid your age. Not only with the little bit of sign language that you know, but your facial expressions are well developed and terribly varied (and often hilarious) and your wants and needs are usually pretty simple. You're hungry, you're tired, or you're bored...those are about the only few things that piss you off. Oh, or your brother stole your (fill in the blank.) Don't worry, soon your aim will improve, as will your motoring skills, and you can chase that turkey down and smack him yourself. (Not that I'm condoning violence between siblings...unless it's truly called for.)
Speaking of communicating, you're picking up the sign language and an awesome speed, and it's so encouraging to see. Two days ago I showed you the sign for book. Today you saw a book sitting on the stairs, pointed to it, and made the sign! Wicked! I was so chuffed that I looked around the living room for something else to sign. Seeing some dirty clothes that never made it to the bedroom, I immediately looked up the signs for "pick up" and "laundry." Hell, if you're going to be so clever, we might as well put it to good use! (You didn't quite get it...don't worry, we'll keep working!)

Your birthday was lovely by the way. We had a very relaxing day. Some friends, a few presents, some obligatory cake smashing. Griffin enjoyed playing with your birthday present all day long, which you ever so graciously shared.
Oooooh, pressies! There was even a PRE party nap, which may have been partially responsible for the delightfulness that was the party! Dude, being one is hard, I know!Little man, you complete this family in a way that I never knew was possible. I love you so much. Happy birthday, little one, we look forward to watching you grow!

Love Mama