First Steps At 11 Months

One of the most rewarding things about being home all day is the gift of the unexpected.

J has been taking tentative steps, standing up very slowly from a squatting position and managing to keep upright without holding on to the furniture.

This afternoon, as Beth and I were watching a video, J suddenly took four or five steps towards the TV, holding Beth's water bottle in both hands.

Beth and I looked at each other.

"Did you see that?" I gasped. "Mei mei just walked!"

And we hugged each other in joy and wonder at the miraculous moment.

There is something about witnessing a baby's first anything that just makes the day seem suddenly alright, particularly if you've been muddling through with too much to do.

Thanks be to God.