Motherhood…Unprepared

It’s amazing how, when you’re dealing with a life that is different in its development, how the simplest milestones are a big deal & the big milestones?? Are earth-shattering.

So, Henry was very, very delayed in his walking. We knew he’d be late, but we hoped that meant 18 months or maybe 2 years. When 3 came and went, we were frustrated, but kept reminding ourselves “Henry will do it when he’s ready”. Which turned out to be at 3 1/2, at summer school.

That day, he took 5 or 6 steps straight into my arms as I picked him up from school. Then we came home & I made him walk everywhere. To his high chair for lunch. Back to the living room to watch Elmo. To his room for his nap. And I was sobbing like Sobby McWeeperton during The Grand Festival of Sobbing & Weeping. I was really looking forward to Steve coming home so he could see it. And this is how great he is - when I got a hold of him to tell him the news, he said, “What kind of cake should I get?” I just went, “Duh….what?” And he said, “To celebrate. We’re having a cake.” How cool is that???

So when he got home, we had a performance in the living room followed by everyone enjoying some lovely chocolate cake as we sang, “Happy Walking to You”. I captured a little on video.

It doesn’t get any better than this. The joy in a milestone finally reached. You’re a rock star, Henry.

Well, I’ve already failed at the whole 31 for 21 concept. But I’m trying. I really am. I just honestly can’t think of anything to say right now. Other than “Henry’s cool”. Which is true. But doesn’t help much with raising awareness about Down Syndrome.