Balancing Act

I thank my lucky stars every day that Emily doesn’t demand that I hunch over her, holding her hands, while she attempts to walk.  That might sound like an awful statement, but there are so many mothers out there who have the unfortunate daily duty of stumbling around, backs aching as their little one attempts to walk.  Although this duty is definitely important and one that will eventually lead to their baby walking, Emily has a different way of figuring out this whole walking business.  Instead, I am fortunate to be able to witness the look of determination on my daughter’s face as she tries to figure out walking on her own.  Her most recent move is to let go of her source of support (usually the couch) and test her standing ability.  Once she passes five seconds or so of unassisted standing, a huge smile begins to form on her face as she proudly realizes what she is accomplishing.  Next, she will look over at my husband and I for a reaction.  Our eyes widen with surprise as she stands for much longer than expected and we quickly applaud her achievement.

I am confident that this new balancing game is her way of trying to figure out how to walk on her own.  Once she is comfortable standing, she will progress to the next step of placing one foot in front of the other and then she will pick up speed.  And from that point on, there will be nothing stopping her.  She will continue to take the same steps to accomplish whatever she wants in life….all by herself….with the love and support of her parents, of course. 

"Look Mom.....no hands!!!"