Now that Sophie is learning how to more effectively communicate she is almost drunk with power. She points, says "eh" or something that sounds like dog, and I say "yes, dog!" She smiles a great smile, points, says, "eh" and I say, "cup? Do you want your cup?" This game continues all day long, and nothing seems to make her happier than to finally, at long last, be able to effectively communicate her wants and needs. Of course, there is the downside that comes when my little interlocutor doesn't get the item she really wants, like, say, mommy's coffee. But mostly this stage is just great fun. And now she is pointing at my iPad with her "want" eyes. Uh oh.

Since my last post, my wee one has started walking and I have therefore started chasing! She is perpetual motion. She chatters up a storm and is starting to really communicate wants and needs and, oh my, opinions! Every stage is even more fun, it seems! Always challenging, but always my new favorite thing.

It's finally starting to feel like fall around here, which is a glorious thing. It's my favorite time of year, after all. We have been toying with the idea of moving somewhere that actually has four seasons, but right now it is all just wishful thinking. Maybe one day.

Money is tight these days, and we are having to get creative with new ways to sustain ourselves. That's ok. It keeps us from being complacent and makes us constantly improve. I miss having reliable paychecks though. And insurance. But these are the sacrifices we make, and it is a rare person who can truly have it all. I am just grateful for every day I am able to stay home and be present with Sophie.

We had some new friends come over to play, and they have a Sophie also, so big Sophie got to play with little Sophie (my Sophie) and little Sophie got to hug a baby, her favorite thing ever! Then big Sophie got to hug her, and the circle was complete.

How are you all?