aridhingra

[aridhingra]

"Trying? Believe the word is succeeding, but that's what happens when you're the older brother, I'm always gonna have that ability, you should learn that." A laugh leaving his lips, "And it's impossible to beat the cuteness of a baby, let alone a father/son duo." Really could you resist the cuteness that was Archie? Was he biased? Absolutely but he really didn't care. "Don't remind me, this whole growing up thing, I'm not really sure who approved of it, but I'm firmly against it." His son was starting to take more steps, while still wobbly you could sense his more confidence. "No, I slept, he's just a morning person, for now." A laugh ringing out, "He's been really great about his sleeping schedule with me, so I've got no complaints. What's got you out here bright and early."

Callie wrung out her hair as she spotted Ari and Archer, a grin already tugging at her lips despite the lingering chill. “Oh, I see — we’re just out here trying to one-up me in cuteness, huh?” she called out as she crossed the sand toward them, still barefoot and dripping. “Bringing the birthday boy to steal my thunder? Bold move.” She dropped down onto the blanket without asking, shooting a look at Archer that was half mock-offended, half smitten. “Can’t believe you’re already one. Feels like two minutes ago you were just a loud, adorable potato.” Then she looked over at Ari, eyebrow raised. “So, did you actually sleep last night, or are you running on sunshine and baby snacks?”

[aridhingra]

Don't leap year babies get to choose if their other birthdays are on February 28th or March 1st? I'm not sure if any child would choose one day later when they can have it a day sooner. Though they would only have what I guess would be a 'true' birthday every four years. Feel like that'd be pretty amazing to be a leap year baby. I'm sorry no one gave you a smash cake for your birthday, feel like my family was always more shove the birthday kids face in the cake. Something I'm hoping to stop with Archie though he's his own wild child that he will probably be willing to do it all himself. So we'll see how those whole 'terrible twos' go when we get there, hopefully the next year will still be semi-smooth waters. Can't imagine leaving my son, you know? So unless there's a reason he's leaving I'm sticking put. Think I'd be happier taking the peach Aperol Spritz.

Unless you are a leap year baby, which you aren’t. I mean, they only technically get a birthday every four years. It really isn’t the same the older you get but we do try and make them count where we can. No one gave me a smash cake for my last birthday though and I’m a little disappointed about that. There is no reason that you both can’t be celebrated on your birthdays. I definitely think he’ll be mature enough by then. He’ll skip the terrible twos and just go through tenacious, thoughtful or terrific twos. Thank you for that. A lot of reasons, huh? That sounds pretty good to me. Life is funny like that. I’m glad you’re planning to keep your roots firmly planted. You do have to unfortunately fall a bit before you learn to walk. He’ll get there. It’s got coconut and scotch but there is also a cocktail version that uses mescal instead. It usually has a lime wedge and salted rim.

[aridhingra]

It was the morning the day before Archie's birthday party and today he was planning on spending the morning with his now one year old. They had done the family time together, tomorrow would be them doting over him with a bunch of kids running around. He had woken early, Archer, which pulled Ari out of bed. His steps were getting better, still incredibly wobbly but he now was taking a few and stopping before falling onto his bottom. Proud wasn't strong enough of a word, continually remembering what his parents must have now felt. Today's adventure? The beach. Even if it was super early, he figured they could have an early morning, get him down for his nap on time. Heading out he got onto the beach, placing him onto a large blanket, in the middle, then making sure everything was set up. Large umbrella later and sunscreen for the little one he turned, recognizing his sister's voice. "That's what happens when you go early in the morning and only the fishes are awake." He laughed shaking his head, but he was no better, he had done the polar ice plunge back in January, who was he to talk.

who: callie x anyone

where: the coast / beach

when: sunrise / early morning

She broke the surface with a sharp gasp, salt water slicking her hair back as she kicked toward the beach. By the time she stumbled onto the sand, she was shaking from head to toe — part cold, part laughter, part maybe-questioning-her-life-choices. Teeth chattering, she shoved wet hair out of her face and called out, breathless, “Okay! In case anyone’s curious, it’s freezing!” She laughed again, kind of exhilarated, like she might just turn around and do it all over again.

[aridhingra]

Watching his son start to learn to explore on his own -- best feeling in the world. Not that holding and cuddling the small baby of a year ago hadn't been amazing, but this? Seeing the curiousity spark in his deep brown eyes, the way his curls bounced as she attempted to take too fast of steps and ended up tipping slightly until dropping to the ground. Knowing that the next several years would be both Lucie and Ari playing catch up to a child that was just eager to see and learn everything around him. To him, that was the best feeling, and he partly understood what his parents had felt -- at least before losing his mother. How children had shaped so much of their lives and made them feel whole. Each moment with Archer, every glimpse of himself he saw in the little boy brought that feeling right to his chest and it was something he never wanted to give up.

As the little boy managed to move along the arm chair and then take a few more brave steps on his own into his arms, he scooped him up, settling him on his side, listening to the babbles that came from the over excited child. "I think it'll take a little while to get used to the fact that he's fully mobile. Not just crawling where you can scoop him up but I'm looking forward to seeing all the things he gets into. I'm sure I'll regret some of that but that's later me problem."

These were days she could never have imagined. Two summers ago, laid out on the hood of her car, head against Ari's chest, she'd never guessed the spool of her life unraveling like this. Their son waking up curled around a stuffed seal, his thumb in his mouth, his cheeks red from sleep. The flop of his brown curls, the crinkle of his dimpled smile, the hands reaching out like starfish for her. And exactly one year ago, she'd been racing down a country road in an ambulance. When Archie woke from his nap, she told him that story. She'd tell him again. When he was two, three, six, ten. She'd tell it when he asked and she'd tell it when she was trying to embarrass him. She could respect the rush. From someone that cute, that sweet - of course her son would be impatient. Of course he would come early.

Ari arrived just as she was packing up the last of their son's diaper bag. She tossed a smile to him, watching as Archie broke into giggles and tugged himself to his feet. He cruised along the armchair well enough and then, with enthusiasm, barreled forward. He was wobbly, and Lou's heart was in her stomach, but he managed the final few steps to his dad. "Oh man," she said, taking a big breath, "I am not used to that yet."

[aridhingra]

We do, comes around every year. Though I think I start ignoring mine a little more each year after I turned thirty. Now that I have Archie I feel like I have a reason to ignore my birthday because well, it's definitely not as fun as a birthday party for a one year old. Maybe leave the existential dread for when he's two, he'll be more adapt to handle it then -- obviously. Don't worry, no need to go stressing yourself I have no plans on going anywhere. I'll admit for a lot of reasons I've grown very fond of Merrock. At first I thought it might be a temporary thing but I've realized I'm happiest now settled in here. I do have it baby proofed now that he's up and toddling around. He doesn't make it super far before falling but it's only a matter of time before he gets the full hang of it. How about you tell me what Snake Eyes is but I'm still probably going to choose the peach Aperol Spritz.

You know, I hear we get older every year too. It’s significantly less fun once you’re past like twenty-five. Maybe I should leave that out of Archie’s birthday card. He seems a bit young for existential dread. Speaking of dread, I’d be pretty disappointed if you made the decision to pack up and leave. I think staying around is a good idea. I might be a bit biased but you can do a poll if you don’t trust my opinion. I feel like there would be other people who say the same. I would be surprised if you weren’t! That’s an exciting development. Hopefully you’ve already got everything sharp covered for when he starts running around your place. I can handle fruit forward and summery. I wouldn’t want to victimize you further. You have options. If you’re wanting to go more classic, a peach Aperol Spritz but if you’re feeling more adventurous maybe a Snake Eyes.

[aridhingra]

Dear Archer,

Happy very first birthday, little one!

You are clearly so very loved, and it’s easy to see just how special you are to your parents (and to everyone who knows you). Though we haven’t spent much time together yet, I already know you're an amazing little guy with a bright future ahead.

I got you a roly-poly shirt, a fun penguin playset, some soap crayons (Sorry for the mess in advance, Lucie!) and a bank so you can start to save up for the big adventures that will inevitable come .

Wishing you a day full of giggles and snuggles.

With Warm Wishes,

Sunny

[ @lucie-newman | @aridhingra ]

[aridhingra]

happy birthday, archie! 🎂🎈🎉

It's your first birthday, little guy, and that means today is all about you and how wonderful you have made our lives over the past year. And how unbelievably fast you are growing. Please slow down, I'm begging. Cienna and Rosalyn picked out this goofy little lion dude just for you, he's very soft and cuddly, and he fits right in with that wild one you've got going on. And the whole family kicked in to help with the dollhouse, picking out which little fantasy characters to include, and how to make it special for you.

The lion is from uncle Cage. Family is so, so important to me, to all of us, and family traditions have always been one of my favorite parts of growing up in a big family. You and me, bud, we're going to have a family tradition of me making you an animal every year for your birthday. I'll help your mom set up a shelf in your room, so you can have plenty of space for them. Once you get a little older, I'll even let you make some special requests. Love you, Arch, happy birthday!

x uncle Cagey & family

for @lucie-newman & @aridhingra,

Parenthood is no joke, it's a very long road, one that often involves very little to no sleep, getting the sniffles twenty-four seven, being puked and pooped on, spit up on, having theme songs for cartoons stuck in your head... and the most love you've ever felt in your entire life. You both are amazing parents, and you deserve to be loved today, too. This box is for both of you, to preserve all of the memories from Archer's first birthday -- keep the cards, any little gifts he's not quite ready for yet, a list of who gave him what, photographs that you print out, and then when he's older, you'll always have that memory together of the first time you celebrated his birthday. You guys made a pretty awesome one.

x Cage

[aridhingra]

Getting older every year is very much part of the whole growing up part that children do! It just feels like the first year of Archie's life has gone by so incredibly fast. But that also means I've been in Merrock a year and haven't decided that it'd be better to be back on the road exploring different places which is pretty big. I'm looking forward to so many things as he gets bigger and more curious. He's actually started walking -- or taking steps. Kind of the weeble wobble steps before falling down but he's really determined. Something summery, maybe fruit forward. I have been personally victimized by pickles, yes, it's true. As long as pickles aren't in my vicinity I'm safe, at least I think I am, are you trying to say I may not be?

I would call it miraculous that he’s turning a year but I feel like growing older is the natural course of things!  I know it’s a hard but you’ve got so many new and exciting things to look forward to. I mean, this time next year, you’ll be looking forward to the terrible twos. I’m happy to keep you sane and distract you though.   I am pretty sure that I could come up with something you’d like.  The question is what kind of a mood or flavor profile are we thinking about aside from nothing involving pickles.  I feel like I should ask if you’ve been victimized  by pickles today. Are you safe? Are you okay? You can tell me.

[aridhingra]

"Thank you, and worse comes to worse, I take him to the toy store and get him stuffed animals from there, he's never the wiser." Bouncing slightly with Archer in the carrier on his chest to keep him happy. "I know I'm going to stay away from the tossing a ring around the bottle game, I don't want to bring home a fish to have to take care of. Between a baby and a dog, it's more than enough to care for." He chuckled shaking his head. "I heard they have those water gun games, those are usually pretty easy." Glancing up at the woman, "Oh I know, he already seems to be fascinated with all the flashing lights and noises, and he's not even a year, I can't imagine when he can run around this place."

"You may be right. I wish you luck in your attempts at bribery," Cherie chuckled. She found Ari's dilemma quite amusing seeing as how young Archer was. "Just think about what game you may have the best skills for and try your hand at that first. There is a higher likelihood of winning that way. Then you can work your way down the list." At least that was her best strategy with carnival games. "And be ready to do this every year. Kids love toys."

[aridhingra]

Who: Ari Dhingra & Lucie Newman ( @lucie-newman )

What: Archer officially turns one!

When: July 23, 2025

Somehow, in the blink of an eye, time had flown by and Ari was now the father of a one year old. There was something bittersweet about knowing he was officially taking steps, being nurtured by the people around him to grow into the best human he could be. Today being Archie's actual birthday he had made sure to take the day off, planning to spend time with his son and Lucie, a little something between both parents in a way to celebrate the child they had brought into the world. While they were sharing custody and time between both of them, they had wanted to make sure that holidays and other celebrations were something they were both present for. Todays plans were probably simple to most, but, a trip to the aquarium to let their son explore the ocean creatures with wide eyes, and then some kind of baked treat of their choosing when they were done after dinner. After changing into tee shirt and pair of jeans Ari headed down to the studio he often met Lucie at when picking up Archie, arriving and letting himself inside, seeing his son attempting to take some steps, "There's my boy, look at you come to daddy." Crouching down holding his arms out for the little guy.

[aridhingra]

Can I be honest with you, Archie is turning a year old in just a couple of days, the 23rd, and I'll admit, I think I'm starting to grey a little over the thought of having a one year old. Basically I'm trying to say I'm not going to be a spaz but if you ever feel like attempting to keep me sane, it's much appreciated. Thinking a drink might just help tonight, so tell me, what's something you're going to recommend? I'll try anything... as long as you promise it won't involve pickle juice. @sunnynardelli

[aridhingra]

Ari wasn't exactly an expert in fishing, but he enjoyed it well enough when he wanted to go out and just do something a little more peaceful and relaxing. As he headed up towards the docks, he heard someones voice and turned, "Aw, shit." When the man's hook caught onto his shirt. "Houston think we have a problem, don't throw any line, I'd make horrible bait."

WHERE: The Marina/Docks OR the river, any body of water!

WHO: Dani & your muse ( can be the one fishing, walking by, get caught in the net ... anything goes with me! )

@merrock

"You wanna be the first to throw the line, you just let me know. I'm on this spot otherwise. ... unless you about to tell me to move?" The fisherman glanced over his shoulder, coarse brows already high up enough to disappear. Now, he had lived here all his life. Anybody could have any prerogative they liked. But come on. What was the point of this spot if not to use it for fishing?

[aridhingra]

[aridhingra]

Giving a warm smile to the woman, when she approached them, "I feel like a lot of that will depend on who is working at what booth. Some may be more apt to take payment over others." Ari said, "But I' also not afraid to try and win. Figure I have to at least give it a shot, right?" It wasn't like his son was going to call him out on how good or bad his form was in playing the games, given he wasn't even a year old.

Cherie was wandering around the carnival, getting a feel for all there was to do. Coming across Ari and Archer, she greeted them both with a warm smile. She couldn't help but laugh softly at the question, shrugging her shoulders. "I am not sure about the bribing, but I am sure that if you play enough, you can win something. Unfortunately, it will cost you."

[aridhingra]

"Pretty much know." Ari said, at least he assumed this was no different than any other carnival, that they somehow rigged the games so that people weren't winning left and right. "I grew up taking my the kids my parents fostered to carnivals when they came to town, or well, my parents took us." He clarified, "So I always felt like I kind of grew up around these, and we always managed to win a little something but it was never those giant stuffed animals that edveryone wanted -- and were always jealous when you saw that one random kid walk by practically dragging their giant stuffed animal. Which now, looking back on it, makes me wonder if their parents did the same thing I'm thinking."

"Think or know?" Sav said, a hint of an awkward laugh behind her words, with a know-it-all discernment attached. She recognized the guy with the baby almost instantly, even though it was the briefest encounter— a severe New Years hangover and a guy stripped and ready to freeze his balls off donning a cowboy hat with a similar can-do attitude did that — the kid attached to his chest well, (shockingly) the most recognizable. And then Lou's mentions of Archie's dad all made sense. "My brother was a Carny for like a summer once, that summer he bought a car. Used. But still." She laughed at the memory, giving Archie the tiniest of waves and a smile.

[aridhingra]

There was something about a carnival, maybe it was because it was one of the things that no matter how much money they had or didn't have, they could manage to squeeze in when he was growing up in a house filled of foster brother and sisters waiting to be reunited with their families, or the ones that became real siblings when days turned to months or years. For Ari, there wasn't a memory that wasn't happy when he thought back to carnivals and fairs. "It would be cheaper to bribe them for sure, but are we sure it's easier? I feel like they know that they'll make more money off of me if I'm playing the games rather than letting me pay outright." Ari chuckled as he shifted around towards the brunette. "The darts aren't too bad but there's something about the milk bottles, I'm 90% sure they're somehow magnetized with a really strong magnet to not fall over."

Since childhood, Elena had always loved Merrock's carnivals. Getting to ride the rides with her big sister, watching her dad win them the biggest stuffed animals possible, taking home a goldfish if they were lucky enough... and the food? Every little kid loved a sno*cone, a bag of cotton candy, and slice of pizza. There really was nothing about the carnival that she didn't love. And as an adult, it was somehow even more fun, maybe just to see it through a fresh set of eyes. "It would be easier to bribe them," Lena confirmed with a nod of her head, "but it's a lot more fun if you play to win fair and square. I recommend the water gun games, I feel like all those take is a really, really steady hand, which is a little easier than throwing darts at balloons or balls at milk bottles, you know?"

[aridhingra]