The Precious: "Bye-bye, Mama"

Hayden with Friends
Hard Rock Cafe - South Lake Tahoe

I had things I wanted to get done this morning, but I found myself early with a puffy-eyed toddler while it was still dark and quiet in the house.

Last night was Parent’s Night, where we can take Hayden to daycare from 6-11pm for some adult time at the movies (Tron was the best!). During the day, we didn’t see her much dealing with our doggie’s health issues at the doggie neurologist.

So, this morning, it was little surprise that she awoke hungry and eager for some reassurance after her long day yesterday.

I gave her a pop-tart and milk in her sippy cup. I pulled out my laptop beside her and began opened a story I’ve been working on. When she finished, she rubbed her eyes and smiled at me as if she and I shared a special early morning secret before the world got up. Pulling her back out of the chair, I set her down. She would go back down to sleep easily now. She waved and said, “Bye-bye, Mama.”

As far as I’ve been witness, this is her first “sentence.” So, I did what I imagine anyone would do: I closed my laptop and picked up my baby girl. We cuddled together on the couch watching Nanny McPhee until she fell asleep in my lap. When she did, I didn’t carry her up to her bed. I kept her with me, gently kissing her soft face.

These babies just don’t keep...

Things Hayden Says

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Before Thanksgiving, Hayden knew "Mama" and "Dada." Today, she says:

• Sit! (and points her finger with authority)


• Bye-bye


• Hi


• Uh-Oh


• Thank you (sounds like Day-doo)


• A-B-C-D


• Touchdown! (and throws up her arms)


• Milk (sounds like Mick)

Precious Hayden: It’s nice to meet you.

Love,
-T.