April 5, a big day

04.05.06. That was this day last year. It was the day Evelina was born. She had her first birthday today. Of all the birthdays in a child's life, this first one is no doubt the most significant for the parents. Evelina had no clue of course that today was her birthday. Although she probably realized something was different when both Robert and I showed up at her day care in the early afternoon and stayed there for the little party we had for her. We brought home-baked Belgian sugar waffles and Belgian crepes with Nutella and sugar. She was both excited and confused. What were we doing there? And then she got to home to spend the rest of the afternoon with her grandparents Moeke and Baba. But for me it was a day of commemoration, reflection, amazement, and pride. Robert and I did well I think, this first year as parents. Of course I thought of this day last year, although this day itself (Evelina was born at 8:27 a.m.) was not one of my best as I was suffering through my allergic reaction to the painkillers they had given me. But I very vividly remember holding her bundled little self for the first time, and softly kissing her little forehead. A most beautiful little face. And now she is a loving little person with a strong will and a most happy constitution. She walks and babbles. Sometimes she seems not even a baby anymore. Here is a picture of a series of portraits we just had done to celebrate her birthday and to give as presents for Robert's birthday. Well, we think she is the cutest baby ever. Keep checking for more pictures of her upcomming birthday-bash. I pray to the weather-gods for a sunny day for a very sunny child. Rain is predicted, but in Texas April ought to be sunny, darnit.