... About to Explode

BabyK is approaching 9months this week and compared to many other babies in her life, she is far behind on the movement train. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining. I definitely feel like I have found a "sweet spot" with BabyK. She is incredibly fun to interact with; full of gurgles and giggles. She eats all the food I set before her and loves trying new things. Momma and Dadda are still her favourite words (and her favourite people) and of course her lack of movement is favourable.

BabyK can sit up on her own for long periods of time. Hand her a block, a book or a blanket and she will be entertained until her next scheduled nap. This means that I can confidently leave her on the mat and know that when I return she (and the rest of the room) will still be intact.

I have heard many mothers state that this was also one of their favourite stages. I have been reminded again and again to enjoy the time while my baby is stationary, because like all things baby, it will fly by. However, knowing how quickly this bomb may go off, has put me on edge. I feel as though if at any moment I will turn my head and suddenly she will decide to bolt, taking our precious little world with her.

About two weeks ago, I decided it was time I actively tried to teach BabyK how to clap. I love watching babies clap and figured if I showed her how I clap, and then made her hands go through the motions, she would eventually pick it up. It was a little rough to start as the concept of keeping her hands open on contact seemed to be lost on her and the thought of playing with my fingers seemed to be more appealing. But alas, the very next day she was clapping all on her own and often! I could hardly believe how quick she had picked it up.

Earlier this week, HubbyK had been holding BabyK in his arms as I left for some much needed time out -even if only to grocery shop. As I walked down our path he grabbed her little hand and "waved" goodbye to me. Again, she seemed quite confused as to what she was being made to do, only to once again soak it up like a sponge. BabyK now waves at everything and anything in sight; especially after clapping for it.

Seeing how fast she can learn things has jump-started my need to be prepared. It's time to take that extra measure to baby-proofing the house and being ready for the inevitable. I should feel better knowing our baby-proof bookcase/entertainment unit should arrive this week. I've been joking about BabyK's crawling debut waiting for after I finally have that unit set up, but I wouldn't be surprised if we're cutting close to the wire.

This isn't the first time I've had to be in suspense. Ever since I was a little girl, I have believed Jesus when He said He'd be back one day to set things right. He also said that no one would know the hour, or the day, so we should live our lives ready for that moment. This always seemed like such an exciting concept; just like a surprise party or a reality game show. But it's only something to look forward to because on most days I feel ready.

On some days, that same soft assuring peace rests in my mind as I imagine BabyK finally taking the next step (pun intended); other days, not so much. Maybe I could never be ready. Maybe no one every really is. Again I find comfort in knowing each moment is a chance to embrace the present while looking forward to the future. So even if I wasn't ready a second ago, I am more ready now than I was before.

Want to know what song is in my head now that I'm done writing this week's post? Have a listen here.

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Matthew 24:36

"But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father"