more on " ma-ma."

They all say da-da first.  Or at least, that's what everyone told me.  So, I really wasn't giving much thought to my baby's first words- if you can call them that.  It's more like babbling, actually.  And somewhere in there you might get something that sounds like a word.  And then, of course, it's embellished by the new parents and before you know it, the news is all over Facebook.  Anyway, our experience went something like that.  Only, instead of da-da... it was ma-ma.  

The first time it happened I was shocked.  Of course I talk to my baby all day long, literally all day.  Griff and I discuss everything.  He's my little wingman, you know?  We really hadn't even worked on ma-ma but, I'd throw it out there occasionally.  Anyway, I was in the kitchen cooking up some yummy thing when, from the other room I heard a little "ma-ma." He looked at me, smiled and continued playing with his toys.  Oh, what a full heart I had that afternoon!  Lately, he says it all day and I'm sure he doesn't know that I'm mama or that it even means anything, but it's super exciting to hear.  Today, after refusing his bottle feeding twice, Griffy sat in his highchair, devouring his sweet potatoes and apples, saying mama- mixed with excited noises in between bites.  He's determined to let me know he's a big boy now and he'll do what he wants.  It's kind of hilarious.  Even at six months my kid is independent.  Tiny moments like that make each day so fun and worth all of the sacrifice.  Sometimes I feel like my life has become one BIG sacrifice.  And then I think back to much more selfish times, before baby was ever around and I can't even really picture my life without him- or without my sweet husband.  I'm pretty sure we were always supposed to be together like this.  Christmas has seemed so busy this year, so rushed with work schedules, graduate school deadlines, caring for baby boy, no money and planning to be with family for the holidays.  I hate feeling rushed, always have.  I love the slow, quiet moments when I can just sit and think about how grateful I am for my blessings in life.  I'm so thankful for the daily sacrifices I get to make, for the ones my hubby makes for me and for the love and joy that fills our home.  Merry Christmas, indeed.

Lunch with Griffin from Ashlee Sanders on Vimeo.