Well you know my name is Simon

A few days before Simon’s birthday party I was surprised when all of a sudden I burst into tears in the shower. I had a little boohoo and then thought, “What the hell was that?!” After a little reflection, I realized that the prospect of Simon turning one was a bit of an emotional land mine for me. It was exciting, but at the same time it really felt like my baby was being replaced by a toddler, and I didn’t feel ready to let my baby go. Of course none of these feelings were logical or rational, but after talking to a few friends I think it’s something most moms go through.

The birthday party was fantastic. We kept it small - just immediate family and two friends, partly so all the hoopla wouldn’t overwhelm Simon and partly to make is easier on us. I’m all for marking the occasion with a modest celebration, but let’s be real - the kid is turning one. Some first birthdays are so extravagant they make my wedding look like a backyard barbeque.

Any emotions about losing my baby are quickly fading as Christopher and I marvel at Simon’s developmental leaps and bounds. He’s still not that interested in walking, but his understanding and comprehension have grown significantly in the past few weeks. As well as adding “milk” and “all done” to his signing repertoire, he now understand a variety of words and sentences. When I ask him “Where’s daddy?”, he smiles and points at Christopher. He also understands what the word “fruit” means. He loves fruit so much that Christopher and I have resorted to calling fruit “The F-word” because if we say “fruit” and don’t produce a piece of melon or pear in .5 seconds it’s a bad scene.

And finally, after (no exaggeration) two months of teething, two more bottom teeth have just poked through. Eight down, 12 more to go. Lord help me.

Simon, the first year was an amazing ride. I can’t wait to do it again and again.