One Step

I play with her, intentionally, and soon she gets it. Mom stands me up, lets go, and is delighted when I move towards her. Falling forward turns into stumbling turns into a grin and steps. One, then two...then three...really? Over and over again this game is played. This dance of independence that I am encouraging her, drawing her into. This is good. This is right. I will show you the way...and then let go.

....like my daddy

All five years of Asher walked out of the bedroom, straight to me. I decided something, he said, 7 a.m. wide-eyed and awake. I am going to take a shower every morning when I wake up, just like daddy does. Okay, I said, as he ran to the bathroom. And would you like your juice in a sippy or a cup with a straw this morning? A cup! he yells from around the corner, and I see in him the beginning of what is to come...