I chased my daughter around a shop this afternoon. I watched as she let go of my hand and made a dash for the tills, running behind the counter, before playing peepo in an empty changing room.
It was beautiful.
A week tomorrow my baby girl turns two years old. And it is only now that I am beginning to see her as the toddler she has been for the past six months. The speaking, singing, mischievous toddler. The non-toddling toddler who is no longer of the non-toddling variety.
Every day brings a new step towards freedom. Every day rewards my girl with the promise that she will beat the hypermobile joints and flat feet that have held her back so long. Every day her legs catch up a few paces with her quick mind, proving that dogged determination is the key to happiness and satisfaction.
She’s not sprinting, or hopping, or skipping yet. But she can let go of supportive hands that once kept her upright. She can make a dash, unhindered, to her own choice of playground equipment. For the first time in her life, she doesn’t have to shout “SWING!” to let us know what she wants. She simply walks towards it.
Amazing.
And she has reached this stage with practically no physio and no special boots. Just constant frustration driving her forwards, backed up by cheers of encouragement from everyone who knows her.
I embrace the physio sessions, soon to begin, with a new sense of eagerness. If she can do this without the imminent physio and piedro boots, what will she achieve with them?
I feel positive and excited. I’ve never felt this way before about my child’s physical milestones.
For the first time, I can watch my daughter chasing freedom without my heart breaking. I can watch her chasing freedom, because I know it won’t be long before she finally catches it.
Such a heartfelt post. I’m delighted that she is doing so well.
Ah, thank you. So am I!
So Looking forward to seeing for myself! She looks so determined and actually quite pleased with herself – so she should be!
Now all little madam needs to do is learn to drive a tractor! Hard to imagine her rushing to the swings independently, it is indeed a milestone. “Go Freya!” love ma
I’m so thrilled to read this post and see your pic! How wonderful :0) I’m happy for you all. It’ll be an amazing summer. Enjoy :0)
Thank you – I’m so pleased she’s on her feet before our Glamping holiday!
gosh! I wonder where she gets that drive and determination??
she is so your daughter.
Be proud, be very very proud!
gosh! I wonder where she gets that drive and determination??
she is your daughter – be proud!
Beautiful and raw….you are a superstar Mom too!
Some beautiful and moving pictures and words what a joy!!
You captured this fantastic moment brilliantly. Long may the confident steps continue for your lovely little lady.
Thank you – I’m hoping she’ll just stronger and stronger.
I’m cheering her on too. Independent motion is a milestone that all parents rejoice in, but is so much more thrilling for you. PS Do you wan t to borrow my lawnmower?
Ha – the lawnmower issue is one for another day. NLM has it on the top of his “to do” list this weekend. It’s a jungle out there!
You made me cry,
Sorry lovely. Consider it payback – you’ve made me cry countless times with your beautiful writing! xx
Aw, just gorgeous! You are bringing a tear to my eye reading this. I look forward to reading of many more successes and here’s to plenty more hide n seek games for the two of you!
Well… the novelty of the hide and seek games behind the checkout at Next could soon wear off!
It must melt your heart to see her finding her feet – literally. What a determined little girl she is.
It really does melt me. And it’s amazing how it’s altered her mood as well. She seems far less frustrated since she’s been wobbling around on her feet.
Molly – Frog has made such progress in such a short time. I am totally thrilled for you all and can’t wait for our turn.
I can’t quite believe it Emma – I’m looking forward to the day when our girls can all run about in the park, chasing each other. x
This is a beautiful post. I’m so glad frog is up and about. It must be hugely liberating for both of you and the park is much more fun on feet than knees.
Good luck with the next steps, may they be swift and steady.
Catherine (@QcattQ)
Thanks for your lovely comment Catherine. You’re so right – it’s massively liberating. I thought we’d never get here!
such a lovely post, she is such a super star and you’re right her sheer will and determination will mean she gets to wherever it is she wants to go x
I’m really hoping that’s the case – she’s proven everyone wrong so far with her walking so I’m feeling positive she’ll go far and not let it hold her back.