A year older

I find myself anticipating Rehan's birthday more eagerly than my own. In one year, Rehan has achieved so much...it still amazes me that a year ago, he was so small and dependent and now, he's so independent and assertive. Yet, he will still come to me for his milk and food, to soothe his hurts, or just to press a wet, sloppy kiss. He might be growing, but he's still my baby.

Even as he changes, there are still streaks of Rehan-ness. His determination in doing anything, first, trying to flip on his tummy to now, trying to walk on his own. His bright-eyed curiosity of the world around him. His intelligence, solving problems with ingenuity - like how to bring a ball up the stairs with him, without asking for help.

And there are new things - a hint of stubborness in doing anything forbidden (ay, dios mio! nazir's fault, ha ha), expressing his displeasure very loudly and vehemently, having my own single-mindedness and the need to pick things apart to see how they work (from me, also!).

A big bundle of joy!

Finally, congratulations to me and Nazir for having survived one year of parenthood, still together!