This week has been one for celebrating one of my very favourite humans. My little squish, my first grandson has just turned one. I can’t believe we have had him for a whole year already. It feels like he was only born yesterday, and at the same time it’s like he has been here forever.

Poor little man was really unwell at the start of the week with a fever and a rash and an ear ache – the joys of being a toddler in daycare! I got to spend a couple of hours with him on Monday and Tuesday while his parents did what they had to at work – luckily it’s been my week for days off! I think there’s almost nothing sadder than a sick and miserable baby, and he was absolutely that! Thankfully a visit to the doctor and some antibiotics meant he was feeling a whole lot better for his birthday and party!

I love seeing all of my boys interact with him… they are besotted and it’s a constant fight for who gets his attention. It is such a nice thing to see, but also bittersweet because Claytie should be here too, playing the fool and making the Squish laugh. I know absolutely that they would adore each other. Claytie was always the biggest kid anytime there were small people around, playing with them and handing out treats. He had such an easy way with people no matter what their age, but kids were always his favourite, and I know for sure that the Squish would be top of his list!

I love that the boys all have a whole lot of that in them too. They have always been so lovely with little people – to the point that it has often been commented on. It’s what they have always seen their Dad do, so it seems only natural that they do it too – younger cousins, family friends and now with their nephew. I know that one of my boys will often message his brother to see if he and the Squish can have a coffee date on the weekend, and there is always disappointment if Squish comes for a visit at our place when Boys are not at home.

I’m looking forward to the next (bittersweet) year of watching the Squish grow up. It’s such a fun thing seeing his personality develop and watching him engage with and explore the world around him. He is the happiest little human (except when he’s sick) and I can’t wait for him to start talking – I am really hoping that he comes up with his own nicknames for his Granny (that’s me!) and for his uncles. I love the joy that he has brought into our world!

Happy Birthday Squish x