We just celebrated my daughter’s first birthday. We had a small family gathering where we presented little Attalie (as she sat in her highchair with a big chocolate cake — her very first birthday cake! My sister and I both had our digital cameras out, my husband was videotaping, and we were all ready to capture the action.

And then we waited… and waited some more, but rather then burying herself in the chocolate frosting, our Attalie daintily picked at the cake with a finger. After several long moments, it became clear that Attalie has never been to a first birthday party before and was not aware that she was “supposed” to be covered in chocolate cake by now.

It is these unexpected, yet wonderful moments that make being a mom so much fun — and it seems that this little 12 month old is just full of surprises. I’m thoroughly enjoying the first words and first steps; the silly facial expressions and odd noises; and I’m beginning to think that one is the very best age.

Happy New Year!

Bettijo B. Hirschi