Has a year really passed? It feels like yesterday that I held the tiny human in my arms for the first time. It feels like yesterday that we strapped hi into a car seat that seemed to dwarf him. It seems like yesterday that the dogs sniffed him as we tucked him into a swaddle in his bassinet. It feels like yesterday that this married couple of 7 years became a family.
Yes, the year went by at a blistering pace with so many firsts I could not possibly document. With so many firsts, it’s hard to put any above the rest. But a first birthday stands as a milestone that as new parents, we are humbled by.
Ryder and I share a birthday which I love. Our birthday fell on a Thursday this year which made it difficult to have his party on that day. So it was scheduled for the following Saturday. Meanwhile, I took the day off from work and we explored Annapolis with my folks and eventually met up with the Finleys for dinner for an intimate setting. Ryder and I shared cake at the Navy Academy Officers Club and he flirted with the waitresses.
Saturday was an all day affair. We brought tents and tables and food galore down to Columbia Island Marina along the Potomac River where we staked out a picnic area under a giant oak tree. Visitors came from all over to see him eat his first birthday cake and fun was had by all. Kris made a “smash cake” shaped like a giant cupcake for his own personal enjoyment. The Finleys took several groups out on their powerboat and everyone munched on BBQ and sweet tea in the cooler than average spring shade. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day.
Despite the long day, Ryder held on for the entire duration. Smiling and entertaining his guests and playing with his cousins and other children who came to see him. Understandably,he crashed hard on the hour drive home, but that’s all he needed to recharge for an evening at home with Uncle Mike, Aunt Jennifer, Cousin Tom and Wienold grandparents. He got lost in the pile of gifts and soon crashed again following dinner. What a day. Happy first birthday Ryder, we love you beyond the stars.
