9 months in. 9 months out.

My Margot has been out of me as long as she was in me.

I think now is the moment she begins her true independence. 

She breaks away; not much, but in smallish ways.

Walking invades crawling, "Ma Ma" replaces crying for her needs, hair hides the infant baldness, she assumes the bottle holding while eating, and naked gums are lost to a mouth stocked with teeth...basically "grown-up" traits.

Frequently I end up moaning with regret the minutes I may have wasted with Margot the Infant; yet, today was the beginning of my yielding to the inevitable: Margot the Girl.

 I was, for the first time ready, even anxious, to find out more about this daughter: her interests, hobbies, strengths, weaknesses, joys...all things that are ahead for her. 

Here's to tomorrow!

p.s. 
Happy Christmas! It really is the most wonderful time year, 

for it is when we celebrate the arrival of the Good news: 

"Hail the Heav'n-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Son of righteousness!

 Light and life to all He brings, Ris'n with healing in His wings.

Mild He lays His glory by, Born that man may no more die;

Born to raise the sons of Earth, Born to give them second birth.

Hark the Herald Angels sing Glory to the new born King!"

Hope you all have a really fabulous Holiday!