Baby Steps

Charlotte did two new tricks on Saturday evening. They absolutely thrilled me! I know Charlotte is smart and she understands much of what I say. However she has never listened to me ask her to do a task and run off and do it before. Saturday she was enjoying some diaper only time running around unencumbered by burdensome clothing. Well, I decided she might be getting cold and it was time for jammies. I was lying on the couch with my usual evening nausea. "Charlotte," I said, "Will you get those pink jammies and bring them to Mama?" She looked at me and where I was pointing and promptly went over picked up the jammies and brought them to me. I was amazed! How adorable. After getting her jammies on, I was watching her walk around the room playing a little more. As she passed close to the couch I puckered and said, "Can you give Mommy a kiss?" I do this all the time and am usually casually ignored and passed by by my busy little toddler. However, not this night. An amazing thing happened, she looked in my eyes, opened her little mouth, poked out her tongue, and planted a kiss right on my lips. Although the tongue was a funny surprise, I have never been so delighted! Finally a kiss freely given to me from my little girl! I can't describe what joy I felt at that instant. Amazing.
Sunday rolled around and my poor girl was throwing up and running a fever. Poor little angel. All she wants is to be held. It is very sad to have a sick child, but I must admit I am enjoying the uncharacteristic snuggling it has brought my way. She is still running a fever today so I am winding up for a big day of cartoon watching and best of all, more cuddles!