Happy Birthday, Lukas Pukas!

Today is Lukas' birthday. It seems like this year went by so quickly and in the midst of tragedies and achievements, sleepless nights and unforgettable moments, my newborn baby boy has become an independent, strong willed one-year-old. By this time last year, he had already entered this world and we were in the hospital room marveling at this little being, pink and wrinkled with a slight conehead, that was ours. Our son. We couldn't believe it then, and we still can't believe that we were blessed with such a wonderfull baby (er... toddler?!).

And we survived the first year of parenthood! Someone at work congratulated me the other day when I mentioned Lukas' upcoming 1st birthday. When I asked why congratulations, she replied that it was because I had survived the first year - and it makes sense. That first year is a year of adjustments, big and small. And we survived them. Now, Lukas is in the toddler room at daycare, he's standing on his own, he's becoming a picky eater (and picking up habits from who-knows-who!), and he's asserting his independence all the while clinging on to mama and dada.

As for celebrating, he woke up a bit later this morning and both hubby and I went in and sang happy birthday to him, after which he started clapping his delight. I had to work but will be leaving early, and daddy took today off. When I get home, we'll be going to Gymboree, dinner with the grandmas and then onto some shopping for school. I made him a small cake last night which we'll be giving him at some point, and I can't wait to see him make a mess! Tomorrow, I will be sending cupcakes with him to daycare so he can celebrate.

And in the midst of it all, I am humbled each and every day as I look into my baby's eyes at the greatness that God is capable of.