Parenthood

We have a nine month old. 
She's energetic, excitable, cautious yet bold, determined, soft-hearted, friendly, happy and absolutely positively the light of our lives.  She throws a fit when you try to change her diaper.  She really, truly, honestly wants you to just leave her alone so that she can peacefully unstack the entire bookshelf without an interruption.  Don't give her something you plan to take away in 2 minutes after you realize you shouldn't have given it to her in the first place- you might get alligator tears.  Don't walk out of the room without waving goodbye, and don't walk in without saying hello.  When she crawls over to your legs and stands up- pick her up, she wants a hug.  She gives hugs.  Yes, hugs...that's the best part.
Share in her joy- standing up with only one hand or picking something up while standing is an accomplishment- when she looks at you and smiles proudly, smile proudly back.  Take time to say good morning to every single ugly pigeon that crosses your path, because she loves the birdies.  Sometimes strangers are going to touch her, it's okay- the joy and smiles she can bring those who don't even know her should be shared.  Nighttime can be frustrating- especially when the 3rd put-down doesn't stick...remember that she isn't trying to upset you, but is enjoying the warm comfort of the arms she loves most.  This too shall pass, and you'll miss it.  She can do things herself- resist the urge to help her out with everything, the empowering that comes from independently achieving a task is monumental.  Hitting isn't nice, so when you tell her NO and she smiles and hugs you- pass her to Daddy before going into the other room, laughing and feeling your heart melt beneath you. 
Everyday we learn something new twenty new things. 

Thank you, Sydney for teaching and showing us a new kind of love, patience, Saturday morning excitement, and for putting up with us as we grow with you in this (still) new thing called Parenthood.  You are so, so loved.