What a funny life this is. I thought I was going to stay hip and happening all the days of my life, but hey, look who’s wearing a party hat to the side and downing an already-beaten damp hot dog with some orange juice in a Doc McStuffins’ party cup because this little person doesn’t take no for an answer. I’m also teaching sharing as a concept. I suppose these are the downsides of it? Now I also have to pretend like I am enjoying it, give her a high five, hug and say thank you. I also got a sticky kiss.

I am an anchor and full-time translator for this little human who speaks gibberish that somehow I always understand. One, two, three, clap your hands. One, two, three, you’re there to teach. One, two, three, you are a tantrum coach. One, two, three, little feet are always in your face and mouth. One, two, three, you have your father’s heart. One, two, buckle my shoe.

Today, Bayede turns one. The sun has been generous with its light and warm effect on the Spring air, and what a joy. I love this. I love that my mother is here to celebrate this moment; who knew that picking out a dress for toddlers can be a mission? Hey man, nothing beats a pink flamingo-coloured shiny little diamond wings, light pink tutu-coloured dress and white stalking with pink ballet slippers for dramatic effect.

I love that my heavy 1-year-old can walk, and her six little teeth are my favourite thing to see. I love that I’ve had steak, chicken and wors on one plate. I love that all my friends are here, and they washed the dishes and made sure they dish up for everyone; I’m reminded today of the actual core of community. I love that I ordered vanilla sponge, berries with cream filling and strawberry syrup cake, which has nothing to do with Bayede but everything to do with what I like. I love that my uncle brought his vinyls. Currently, we are jamming to Sax City by Manu Dibango Anthology. I love that my tummy is so full that I feel like I’ve lost my ability to hear properly. I love how sticky Bayede’s chubby hands are. I love that she only wants her dad to carry her to bed even when she’s in deep sleep. I love that I will be having a slice of cake for breakfast tomorrow morning. It’s my birthday too.

While I was in the kitchen sorting out some leftovers to give to family,

“Why did you take a party pack? You’re an adult, Fezile,” Yanga says as he sucks on the lollipop he stole from one of the party packs.

“Leave me alone; I gave birth to our main character today, okay?” I respond.

We both chuckled, and for the first time that day, he held me in his arms, and I felt a wave of rest and gentleness cover me. This moment is then interrupted by, “The last one to get to the sitting room must give Bayede a bath tomorrow morning!” After saying that, he ran outside, and can I just mention that I was still in the very position that I was in while he gave me a hug? Did I marry a criminal? Whatever happened to “ I gave birth to Miss Party” perks? I feel robbed.