Happy birthday, baby!

(Disclaimer: I am a writer, or at least I fancy that I'm a writer. I am not a photographer, but I am aware that these photos are not spectacular. If you want clear, striking photography, go see Hawkins.)

One year ago:



Earlier this week:



Yeah. That's the BABY, climbing the STAIRS. He is under the impression that he can climb down stairs as well, but he cannot. His little legs are just too short; he'll place one leg on the step below the one he's standing on, grab the railing, and try to step down, only to discover that his other leg is stuck on the higher step.

Private birthday festivities before this weekend's extravaganza (or, "What the hell is this stuff on my hands?"):