Harrison's First Birthday

Happy Birthday Harrison! Our little guy started his birthday off the way nature intended....nakedness followed by a warm bath. This moment of calm was soon to be replaced by a breakfast gathering of my family, where delicious pancakes, fresh applesauce and a raucous "happy birthday" were served up in true Reed fashion (loud, off-key singing and multiple conversations happening simultaneously). Harrison stayed up a bit past his nap time to blearily enjoy a pancake designed just for the birthday boy.

Harrison enjoyed opening gifts, including a long time favorite wood Beagle from Grandad which carried the birthday boy throughout the house with the help of uncle Scott. Not only did Scott provide much merriment on the occasion, but given a recent surfing accident, presented little H with a great learning opportunity: Surfing will be strictly prohibited as it is much too dangerous for little and big people alike (see second photo).

After a brief nap, the birthday celebration continued at the zoo, where the family observed amazing creatures from Africa to Asia to the Pacific Northwest. Harrison was intrigued not only by the animals within the exhibits, but also by the fascinating beasts who could be seen showcasing some equally interesting behaviors and rituals.

Checking out sea otters and turtles.

I love goats!

Soaking in the midday sun in the African Safari.

Underwater.
A real, much larger version of Sophie.

Fortunately for Harrison, his big day also happened to fall on a Duck football game, so we took the opportunity to show our school spirit and attempted a family photo in our gear. Harrison however was much too excited about his new set of blocks to pay much attention to anything else, let alone sit still for a photo.

The birthday weekend continued on Sunday with a gathering of friends and family. We spent much of the day prepping for the event. By the time the first birthday cupcake was presented, this one year old was so ready for bedtime.  

Dad in his birthday apron.

Cupcake time.

Going for it.

 First bite.