a blog about raising a daughter with cerebral palsy and learning unexpected lessons along the way

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Celebrate




Each day brings progress. It may not always be obvious, and sometimes Rob and I think we are the only ones who notice it, but progress is there if we look hard enough or take the time to reflect on where we've been. I remember the days, not long ago at all, when it felt like months, or even longer, between each one of Oia's new accomplishments. Oia has taught us to appreciate movement, movement so simple yet so complicated. We have celebrated (and still celebrate) everything she does.

Everything.

We cheer while she is playing in the dog bowls, as long as Righty is the culprit. We smile when she splashes in her spilled juice because she's splashing with both hands. I laugh as she walks away with my neatly folded laundry because she is actually on her feet and walking. We clap when she pulls the cap off a marker or pen because she has gained the strengthen and accuracy, not to mention the coordination, to do this using both hands. And if one day she writes on the wall...so be it. Another one of those 'unexpected lessons' taught by our 2 year old...there are other things in this life far more important to worry about or get upset over and these seemingly small things are not. In our world, they are worth celebrating and so we do.

Even when she sneaks away to climb up (by herself!) a 2 leveled step stool at the bathroom sink, turns on the water and presses her hand tightly under the faucet to soak herself and all that is within 5 feet of her....we still celebrate because this is progress.

2 comments:

  1. She is so cute! She looks so proud of herself...soaked and all!

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  2. Hey, this is great stuff!What a doll, she is...
    It's so nice to get to know your family!

    ReplyDelete