Birthday, take 1

Tomorrow Henry turns 1! We’ll have an official family celebration to mark the occasion, but invited everyone over on Saturday to eat cake and have some fun with the little guy.

Henry and I started our day early and went to the grocery store to pick up some party supplies, including a bouquet of helium balloons. Henry was enthralled and played with them while we finished up the shopping. They were attached to a clip, which was secured to a shopping bag. Apparently, they were not secured enough. I was loading the bags into the car and when I turned back, Henry had released the balloons to the heavens.

I was upset, but Henry seemed unconcerned.

Luckily, Grandma came to the rescue and brought more balloons. Good thing, because they were a major highlight for Henry, even inspiring him to learn the word “balloon” instantly. It sounds more like “baaooo,” but distinct from “ball” or “bear” (“Bah!” “Beh!”).

We thought he might feel bewildered by all the decorations and attention, but on the contrary, Henry was thrilled. He couldn’t believe all the wonderful things that were for him! I made a chocolate buttercream cake for the party:

and we bought some vegan cupcakes from our favorite veg-friendly bakery for Henry since he had a reaction to egg whites earlier and we wanted him to be able to stuff his face worry-free.

He also couldn’t believe his luck when he got a whole cupcake to devour by himself. Why can’t dinner be this delicious EVERY DAY?

Presents followed and he was excited by everything, including the wondrous bags and fancy bows.

Happy birthday, little buddy!

(video)