Leila's Milestones

I realized recently that I totally neglected to make a big e-deal out of a HUGE milestone for Leila. After 7 months of physical therapy and countless hours of coaxing, Leila has finally started walking!! The big event occurred the evening of January 31st, just before bedtime. She had taken a few steps in isolation several times before, but promptly dropped to the floor once she realized what she was doing and refused to try again for weeks. That evening she had taken a few steps and remained cheerful about it. Trying to encourage her efforts I scooped her up and said cheerfully, "Let's go downstairs and show Daddy what you can do!" I took her downstairs and set her down, standing, with my legs behind her for support. As soon as she had gained her balance she took off across the room towards her Daddy, taking 6 or 7 steps before she toppled over. We certainly didn't expect that! The next day we had therapy and by the end of our hour-long session she was taking 5-6 steps consistently. 

Since that time she has continued to progress, although slowly. She is getting braver about starting out on her own and just a couple of days ago she finally figured out how to stand up without pulling up on something. 

Update: I have tried all day to upload a video, but alas, I can not get it to upload! Sorry grandmas!