Its Official, She's Toddlin'

Hope is now walking the length of entire rooms. She's been taking steps on her own for a few weeks now. Many times it's been at the request of Mom and Dad, who are dying to see her pass certain milestones, especially given her unique and auspicious start. But about a week ago, we were all trying to get out the door, and about halfway through admonishing Shane for not having his shoes on, he shouts out, "Look, Look! She's gonna walk!" And sure enough, she ended up taking about 7 steps. It's been touch and go since then, she was just diagnosed with bilateral (both sides) ear infection which I think messed with her balance. It's actually funny since Liv had a very similar deal at around the same time. But now she's back to it. Liv had a palydate today, and when the other little girl's mom came to pick her up, Hope was in total show-off mode. She was walking through entire rooms. She's a toddler.

Fun in the Basement!

Yesterday was a rainy day, so we had some fun down in the basement. Hope loved this. And no, they're not going as fast as it appears!

Hope is One!

I can hardly believe that Hope is one! In many ways, it seems like just yesterday that she was born, and in many ways, that nerve-wracking, blessing-filled experience down at CHOP and HUP seems like a distant memory. It is amazing to me how much this little child has taught me about gratitude. I am grateful that we are so blessed to live in a time where skilled surgeons can successfully repair there life threatening conditions on such tiny children. I am grateful to have such a caring and nurturing network of friends and family who's prayers, thoughts, and concerns buoyed us through this experience. Thank you all!

Hope continues to be a joy. She is outgoing, and is constantly trying to engage people wherever we encounter them; the grocery store, schoolyard, playground, doctor's office, etc. When people somehow fail to notice her -- which she seems to not be able to fathom either -- she leans in and tries to engage them with her smile and often a friendly "hiya." She is incredibly enamored with dogs and other children, especially babies. Her whole body stiffens and shakes with joy whenever she sees a dog. I am amazed how she has no fear of any dog, regardless of size. Hope also has this remarkable relationship going on with Olivia's pre-school teacher -- who is, herself, a remarkable person. Whenever Hope sees her she practically dives out of my arms to have this woman hold her. Many times, I am asked by others, "Is she always this happy/friendly/easy/etc?" The answer is always a resounding "Yes!" I used to tell people that I thought she knew what's she's been through and that she's just happy to be alive, and while I still believe that to be true on some level, I am also sure that a large part of her ease, contentment, and joie de vivre comes from all the love, caring, and prayers that she has received in this first year of life. Thank you to all!