Hints of joy

In this season of renewal, I have found my own source of hope. I'm sure it will be no surprise to hear. Her name is Juliet Rose.

Last night at dinner, for no reason:
(J) "Momma! My axles are bubbling!"

This morning while I'm futzing at the sink while J eats behind me at the counter:
(me) "[muttering to myself, then] Do you think I'm crazy?"
(J) [silence]
I turn around with an inquiring look.
(J) "Didn't you hear me nodding?"

Yesterday I raised my hand to silence her as she told me for the ten-THOUSANDTH time that she did not need a nap.
(J) "Do NOT do that to your DAUGHTER!"

Just now, acting as doctor to Playtime Bunny.
(J) "Her blood pressure is 40! Her blood pressure is yellow!"

Last week, getting ready to run from the hearth, across sofa pillows lined up on the floor, and throw herself onto the Big Yellow Chair:
(J) "Introducing! The Spectacular Mt. Airy Guggabagah!"

Last week, ruminating on the concept of a world without gravity:
(J) "Digging in the garden would be a lot easier, I would say. And getting things off a shelf. But it would be hard to.... [face bunched in concentration, hands ready to help explain] ... stay DOWN."

Seriously, there are several dozen other examples I could offer as to why my daughter is a complete delight. It's truly an honor to be on the sidelines of her life, and a great relief from my often overly-aggrandized concerns. What a blessing.