Little One

Left hand, right knee. Right hand, left knee. Left hand, right knee. Right hand, left knee. There! I can almost reach it, just a little further. Left hand, right knee. Finally! I stretch out my chubby hand. My short fingers try to grasp the object of my attention. Its bright colours call out to me. I drag it towards me, unable to pick it up with one hand. I run my hands over its smooth surface. It feels cool against my warm skin. I am drawn to the pattern of red, blue, and green – my favourite colours. I am finally able to lift it using both hands, and lift it toward my face. I lower my head and rest my right cheek against it, revelling in the new sensation. I close my eyes to fully absorb the experience. It smells funny. I wrinkle my nose and let it fall to the floor, the novelty gone. I look around the room and see Her. She is watching my antics with a smile on Her lips. She is the love of my life. I slowly make my way across the room. I feel the soft texture of the carpet beneath me as I head toward her. I marvel at the squishing caused by my slightest movement. Her smile brightens as I approach. My whole world revolves around Her, as Hers does around me. I am nearly there. I stumble and a giggle escapes Her smiling mouth. She reaches out Her hands to steady me. I open my arms to embrace Her, wanting to be near Her. She comes closer, taking me in Her arms. She tosses me in the air, catching me as I burst into a fit of giggles. She places me lightly in her lap, tickling my belly. She speaks to me in her soft voice – “I love you, my Little One…”