Belated: Luca at 1 year old

We've been allowing blog entries to slip to the bottom of the to-do list lately, mostly because of our little master of ceremonies' increased mobility. Long story short, he's got us on the run and so we're just getting around to our final 1st birthday post...

Dear Luca,

You are one year old! All in the same moment, it feels like you've always been with us and like you just arrived yesterday. This first year of your life has flown by like no other we've known.

When we first brought you home, we didn't know much about you. Let's face it, we didn't know much about babies and probably still don't. But we've relished getting to know you over these first months of your life, and think of you less as a baby and more as a critical member of the team.

Everywhere you go, you leave a wake of happy women behind. From your stroller-throne, you point at them and wave, flashing a toothy smile. In the airport, on the street, at the grocery store, you always find a new friend. Lately you've developed a tendency toward silliness and have added to your repertoire a new head-grabbing routine that you find hilarious. You save your sloppy, openmouth kisses for mom and dad.

At times you muster a lot of intensity. When you are working on something new, or trying your hardest to get the balloon/toy/door/etc., you do a kind of huffy, lamaze breathing, furrow your brow, and charge on all fours towards the object of your interest. And let no one get between you and your food. You are admired for your appetite and the variety of foods you like, which your picky-eater-parents hope you keep up.

As is to be expected, we often find ourselves in discussions about who you look like. Though you almost certainly have your Papa's nose, an Allen jaw and Henderson eyes, you have a spirit and personality that is brand new and all your own.

Luca Thomas, 1 year old