What a week we have had!  

 

Last weekend, we had about seven of Ellie’s friends and their parents over for some cupcakes and playtime.  Ellie was gracious to share her toys with her friends and she seemed intrigued by why everyone kept coming up to her and saying “Happy Birthday!”

 

On Wednesday, her actual birthday, she spent the day with all four of her grandparents and they thoroughly enjoyed spoiling her with their gifts and their love.  She was also quite fond of doing things to make them laugh hysterically.  Ellie enjoyed her first piece of cake, though at first the taste of the caramel frosting was clearly not pleasing.  

 

My gift to her was to take her to the pediatrician to get three shots early in the morning on her first birthday.  Doesn’t Ellie have a rough life?  She seems in great health and her ears were even clear (but I doubt it will stay that way for long!).  She weighed in at 20lb., 14oz., and measured 28 1/4 inches.  I suspect that she’s a bit taller since the nurse’s use of a yardstick with a squirmy baby hardly seems official.  

 

To cap off the day of her birthday, the whole family went to a Davidson basketball game.  Despite my fear that we were asking for trouble by bringing her along at this age and this late in the day, she sat through the entire thing, and even cuddled in my lap for the second half.  It was a great day.  

 

My parents are still here and we’re enjoying some nice time together.  Because of their company, I have not really thought much about the milestone we have passed.  I know I feel some relief and a huge sense of accomplishment.  But, I also suspect when it gets quiet, and even lonely next week, the sadness may still be there as she changes and grows quicker than I am emotionally prepared for.  

 

As I close, I also want to recognize all of you--our loving family and friends--who have supported us through the first year of parenting.  We truly would not have survived or thrived without your love, wisdom, laughter, and support.  Thanks for providing Ellie with such a wonderful community.