TAYLOR IS STANDING!

Today was so incredibly exciting. Over the last week I've emerged from my funk and today was the reward! Taylor stood up! All by herself!! There were so many hours of hard work that led to this milestone - first we had to get her to open her hands, then take weight on her hands, then gain some use of her hands, so she can support herself and catch herself if she falls. Then we've had to work with her standing intentionally, vs. stiff as a board, and knowing to sit down (and how to sit down) when her legs are tired vs. falling over on her head. It's hard to appreciate all of the little, intricate details that led to this accomplishment - but she worked so incredibly hard. I am so, so proud of her and thankful for Susan for her faith that we could get here.

We so badly needed a sign that things were connecting, that she was making progress, and we should let ourselves hope for and trust that Taylor will walk. It's been nearly a year since her last major milestone (sitting independantly) and while we've had lots of little wins, which we've learned to treasure - we really needed a big win for Taylor.

Here is how she does it - Susan has a little stool that she sits on and we have an ottoman that she has in front of her. Taylor, like a little jack-in-the-box, sat and then stood up - strongly, "normally", and so, so proudly. She did this for about an hour - up and down, up and down. I was crying, Alison was crying, and Susan was crying - we were all so happy for Taylor. The best part - even better than her standing - she was so, so proud of herself. She had a huge grin on her face, was laughing hysterically, and shouting "yaaa" when she was standing. She was just so excited. She would look to Alison and I to clap for her and she was obviously thrilled with herself. Any parent wants their kid to feel a sense of accomplishment and pride - and this is the first time I've seen this in Taylor. Yes, she knows she is loved deeply, but to see her realize that she can do things and she is capable - I can't even describe it.

I hope this ignites the realization in her that she can walk, she can play and she can be independant. In the meantime, today is an incredibly special day. A real gift from God - if you don't believe in miracles - let me say that this little gal, without part of her brain, who couldn't even roll over a year ago - is a miracle in the making. Keep the prayers coming - they're working!!