For Maxfield on his first birthday

 2-05-25

On this day last year…..
You arrived
Around 530 am, daylight was near
Maxfield Endeavor Thomas
Maxfield, my mom’s maiden name
I am sure she kissed you on the forehead
As you took your first breath
As  she did for all her great grandsons
"Endeavor", meaning to try hard

I was awake, sleeping at your house
With Stevie and Bird - and Marty and Krindy
Cats and dogs who would become
Your friends and guardians

You were anticipated and wanted
From the day your mom said
“I’m 8 weeks pregnant”
While grandpa and I sat in silence
But for only a second
And then we smiled and didn’t stop

Before you were born,
your mom sent pictures
Of her increasing girth
showing your continued growth
I breathed a sigh of relief
Each time, knowing you were okay

Safe inside,  you grew and grew
Until you mom’s  high blood pressure 

evicted you
A few weeks early
You were ready

On that Monday morning

a phone call and a video from your dad
Showing you, newly born,  protesting a little
yanked out of the safest place you will ever be
Curious clear blue eyes looking at the world
Much like your mom’s when we first met

And that hair, was it red? 

“Yes” I insisted
As I always do

“You are so special son” 

Your dad said over and over
And we all agreed.

Grandpa and I are  lucky
To see you every week
And watch you grow 

and discover new things

Your fat little hands and fingers 

Quickly learned to explore
Picking up cheerios
With the newly learned pincer grasp
“Splendid” we told you

You clapped and smiled
We did too.

Thursdays with you
First you mostly slept
In my arms,
I couldn’t put you down.
Holding you while you sleep 

Eyes closed, sweet face, perfect lips

 Remembering the days years ago
Holding and rocking your mom

Soon you’ll be walking

Into new adventures
And away from our watchful eyes
And into your life
Time goes too fast!

May you carry the strength
And determination
Of the many ancestors whose
name you share
May you Endeavor to make the world

A better place by being in it.