And I got to be there.

I went to work today, but that's not what I'm talking about.

Since I have the luxury of KNOWING that Jackson is very well taken care of during the day, I don't worry about his well-being AT ALL. One of the hardest things for me about working outside the home though is that I miss a lot of things. I missed the first time Jackson rolled over, though Melanie did send me a picture via text message. You know, things like that.

After Jackson took his first steps way back in June, I thought for sure he'd be running around the house on his own within a few weeks. Then, I learned just how stubborn he was. I was okay with that (i.e. it was a LOT easier last weekend at the beach and at the dock that he wanted a hand at all times), but I was starting to worry that he'd be 18 months before walking on his own...and worse, that I'd learn he was walking all by himself via text message.

But God is good to me...He lined up GREAT childcare for Jackson (really, for me). And on my first day back, when I feared I might need water proof mascara, I didn't cry once, and I got to come home and watch Jackson walk all by himself for the first time. I saw him walk behind his scooter, leave it to walk to the TV, walk back, walk to the bookshelf, and then take off. I didn't miss it!! I got to see him figure it out and watch him puff up all proud of himself. I got to see the wheels turning in his head as he ventured further and further each pass. I got to hear him giggle with excitement.

Now, I know that chasing a walking/running toddler (as opposed to a crawling toddler) will be work - he's already put two whole rolls of toilet paper in the toilet. I'm okay with work.

I'm just glad I got to be here.