I can remember very few of my birthdays. Those which stand out did so because of a cake (my mum made some special ones, including a rocket ship and a giant mouse), or a gift (a Scalextric slot car racing set when I was six, from my grandparents), or a hangover (my 21st).

It’s doubtful whether Jasper will remember anything about his first birthday. At this time of life, celebrations are for adults. 

For us, surviving a year of caring for the little man seems worth lighting a candle for. So Carolina bought him a banana muffin and, whether he realises it or not, JD will be celebrating this lunchtime, with his English Nana in town to witness it and take the photos.

Life has a habit of getting in the way of the important things. As if to prove this point, we have a house viewing booked for this evening, and my mother, a British Lion, is being visited by a local group of Lions for tea and nibbles after lunch. (At least we can justly claim to have a pride in our property.)

It’s worth considering Jasper’s point of view of today’s events. He will be presented with brightly-wrapped books and cards (which we’ll have to help him to tear open) with his name on (which he won’t be able to read), a small muffin (he doesn’t eat cake generally), a musical candle, and he will be made a fuss of for a few minutes. Apart from the candle, not much new for him there.

However, later in the day a whole group of strangers will come to his house. No doubt he will be passed from lap to lap and be tickled, teased and fussed over. Just about his ideal activity.

Never has a baby been more amenable to newcomers, and rarely have I seen people react so well to infants. This is a child who needs to be hired as some kind of ambassador to encourage population growth.

So much time as a parent is spent anticipating the future. How will Jasper turn out? What will he choose to do with his life? How will he enjoy his second Christmas and second birthday? How will preschool treat him?

Meanwhile, his life is happening every day, and year two begins today. May I live to witness many, many more happy years as Jasper’s Dad. Sleep well.

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