On The Move

Katherine, it's your 10 month birthday today. Every time I meet someone who hasn't seen you in a little while, the first comment they make is how much you have grown. And that's certainly true - you outgrow your clothing at a fast pace. As I see you every day, I don't notice as much; your growth, both physical and as a person, is happening in a fluent motion. But you are changing every day, bit by bit you are becoming more independent, more aware of details in your world (and yes, more opinionated).

Over the past few weeks, you have made it clear that pureed food is ok for an occasional meal, but really you are choosing to chew your food these days. That front top tooth that's cutting through right now will be helpful with that. I know it hurts right now, but just keep imagining all the food you'll be able to bite in a few days. Veggies, meat, noodles, fruit and bread are all welcome by you (and yes, you have had a little taste of ice cream, and you loved it).

You are on the move, still rolling for the moment, but you have made up your mind that it's time to explore your options, and your goal is clear: you want to walk. It's so cool when you sit on the floor and make gestures for me to hold out my hands to you can pull yourself up. At first it was just for short moments, but now you are quite stable and are holding on tight to my hands while taking little steps. I know this is your next step to independence, and I cherish every moment you still hold on tight to me.

Tonight you have fallen asleep in my arms for a nap and I am hugging you tight as I am writing this. You have your arms wrapped around me, and this moment in life is nothing short of perfect.

You are teaching me that we always grow and change (even when we are all grown up). I love seeing every new step you take, watching you with every new food your try. That's how we all learn, trying something new and while being unsure of how to do it at first, we get better and better the more effort we put into it. The key is to keep getting up again, no matter how many times we fall down. I am so proud of you as you try and try again. I want you to know that I love you always and forever.