1.23.2009

Little Monkeys for My Little Monkey

One year ago today, at 8:45 a.m., my little monkey was born. He was tiny and pink (not unlike a newborn hamster, but bigger and his eyes were open). He was wrinkly and wiggly. And his movements were in somewhat slow-motion. He was the cutest little dude I'd ever laid eyes on.

*Tears* Yes, I've been a crying mess all week. It's not that don't want him to advance. I love it that he's social, learns new things every day, dances, gives hugs and kisses, and that he gives me that ornery smile when he knows he's doing something unruly. But I like it that he's little. I like his little socks and his little pants. His tiny tee's and small jackets. Physically, I like him little. Besides, calling him Mommy's Big Monkey just doesn't sound appropriate.

But even though he's little, he's still grown a lot. There is no way he could fit in his newborn clothes (although that would make for a great snapshot). He doesn't fit in his swing. And he doesn't want to play in his Exersaucer anymore...but that's just because he thinks he's too big!

So although this birthday is bitter sweet, it is his first birthday none the less and we celebrated. This time, the event was much smaller, with only Preston's friend Max, and his parents in attendance. There wasn't a theme, per say – although we had monkey cupcakes, and his gifts were wrapped in monkey paper. And we had one decoration, a "Happy Birthday" banner which hung from the exposed beam in the kitchen.

His birthday party was low-key. The kids played. The parents chatted. We ate. Opened gifts – Max got Preston a book and Jeremy and I got him cool sneakers with skulls, a piggy bank, and onesies...he didn't need any more toys). We had cake. Our guests left. We put Preston to bed. And then watched the hospital video from the day he was born.

*More Tears*

Cheers to Preston and to the next year of this parenting journey!

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