CELEBRATING TODAY...

Dear Baby Girl-
Maybe I shouldn't call you that…
you are growing like a weed before my eyes.
It hurts my heart, but at the same time it bursts with joy
as I watch you taking in the world around you in a whole new way.
Almost 19 months old.
Crazy how time flies.
This month you would have started nursery.
But instead, you stay home on Sunday
while Mommy and Daddy do this crazy switch thing.
Someday, we will go to church as a family again.
You are such a well-mannered child.
Still a bit shy, but slowly you are opening up to others around you again.
Your personality is beginning to shine again and you make everyone around you smile.
You love to talk, and talk, and talk.
You can say so many words and enjoy making up your own.
Animal sounds are your favorite- dog, duck, and monkey especially.
You are simply wonderful.
And so easy to love.
You give me kisses, all over my face.
Give me a hug and pat my back.
Call my name and hold out your arms.
Our bond is special, but you love your daddy just as much too.
You are our snuggle bug.
Oh sweet girl, we love you.

What I really wanted to write about…
but got carried away was about today.
You took your first step today.
A miracle no less.
Seriously.
I thought you would never walk.
It has been a long journey.
I have tried to be patient, but ok I will admit this momma wasn't blessed with that gift.
We have worked and worked with you, but you refuse.
Crawling is your game.
It is less dangerous,
not so scary, and
comfortable.
I don't blame you, but didn't want you to be held back.
So today I prayed and I prayed hard.
"Father", I said.
"Evalette needs to walk.  Alright maybe she could crawl forever, but
I need her to walk. This pregnant belly is only growing
and I am getting tired of carrying two babies."
"I know that angels can surround her and help give her the confidence to
take her first steps and I know she will run from there. Amen."
I continued to pray in my heart all day.
Afternoon came and I told the boys, it was walking day.
They all gathered around and I placed you by the couch.
You leaned against it.  You were protesting.
"Come on…" I coaxed with a candy in hand, just over arms length away.
"Ready, SET, GO!"
You laughed in my face, sat down, and reached out your arms for me.
"Come on you can do it!" We all chanted
and you know what you did, you stood up right there in the middle of the floor.
All by yourself.
You wobbled, then steadied yourself, and stood hands free for a minute.
We all clapped, screamed, and cheered.
You were so happy.
"Come to momma, " I called.
"Come on!!"
Then you did it.
One wobbly step and you fell.
"See it wasn't so bad, get back up."
"Try it again.  Momma has your treat!"
You got up again.
I admit I was shocked and thanked the angels holding your hands.
You had never been this confident.
A couple wobbly steps and then a little fall.
You were so proud and loved all the attention of the family.
I was so happy.
God hears our prayers little, small, and even inpatient ones of a very pregnant mother.
You are still working out the kinks of your walk, but everyday you stand and take steps.
You no longer fear the unknown of the fall and you enjoy your new skills.
Celebrating you and God today BABY GIRL.
Keeping on Walking!!!