First order of business. A very big hug and extra special love to Milo's Auntie Ali, who came and took such good care of the munchkin and his papa while mama was in the hospital, and who was the first to be caught on film inspiring a very early Milo-smile (scroll down to see).

Milo's had many smiles since then, and is -- as one waiter told mama -- "all I needed on Mother's Day." It's true. Things can be falling apart every which way, and when the little guy decides to reach up, reach for mama's face, hold on tight and pull in for a kiss or a nose-rub, life is just, well, perfect. The first ever Mother's Day for this mama held many such moments, with a walk by the river, the freshest most sea-lovely oysters and lots of sun. Milo even touched a live sea horse.

So, to aunties far and near, and mothers everywhere, we're thinking of you... And, if you visit, Milo will teach you how to throw a ball to him. And he will catch it.