It’s four little words that I’ve been waiting for months to type–we have a walker! Ok, maybe not quite a full-fledged walker, but Peyton is gaining more and more confidence as she stands on her own two feet. She still prefers crawling (at warp speed), but I’ve noticed her taking more steps each day. We knew it was only a matter of time. Her therapists had been saying that every week for the past few months. It’s been evident since day one–Peyton doesn’t give up. She may get frustrated and cry or scream, but eventually she succeeds . And as you can see in the video, Peyton is always so proud of her accomplishments! It’s like she knows when a big milestone is reached. If you missed the video, just head over to my Facebook page to watch it.
I wish you could have seen me the day I posted the video. Imagine a giddy parent, so excited to show off their star child. I had taken the video several days before, but waited to post it. The morning I shared Peyton’s walk on social media, I was glued to my computer. Within a minute of uploading the video, I pressed the refresh button and began to see the “likes” and comments stack up. I was beyond thrilled to share this precious moment and couldn’t wait to hear from her thousands of fans. I know it’s a big deal and don’t need validation, but I wanted to see it through your eyes. Many of you have been along for the ride since well before the triplets made their grand (and very early) entrance. I feel like every time I share something special, it is just as big of a deal for so many of you and that makes my heart melt! And to be honest, I think it helps me get through the tough days…just knowing that support is always there.
I think Peyton’s walk is the biggest milestone since she came home from the Nicu at about 4 months old. Each little thing she overcomes is reason to celebrate, but this one is a biggie. When I watch the video, my eyes get watery. I think back to the early days, when Peyton and Parker were measured in grams, not pounds and their movements were often just reflexes. I think about Parker and his brain injury and his slow progression towards paralysis. He most likely would have been wheelchair bound, possibly not able to even take a step. So this milestone is more than just a proud moment for Peyton, it’s symbolic for me. My daughter is taking steps, something that her brother and sister were never able to do. She is once again defying the odds and showing off to her siblings in Heaven. I’d bet money that Parker and Abby were dancing and cheering on Miss P!
Ok, enough of the tears and sappiness. I want to share one more moment with you..it’s a fun one! We let Peyton out of her bubble over the weekend and went on a little adventure. For those of you new to the blog, Peyton is in her second winter of hibernation. Because of her weak lungs and immune system, we have steered clear of others during this flu and RSV season. A simple cold or cough can turn into pneumonia for P and land her in the hospital. Hopefully this is the last winter of hibernation. She hasn’t had a hospital stay since last fall!
Peyton’s hair is growing fast and furious. She’s a lucky girl to have a full and thick head of hair at nearly 20 months old. A friend/stylist trimmed her hair a few months ago, but it sure grows quickly! So, we took her to the salon I go to in Springfield and the talented Kate managed to clean up her hair through the squirms and tears. Peyton looked confused when we walked into Willow & Birch Salon, but that’s to be expected since she has only stared at the walls of our home for all of winter! We plopped her on my lap and Kate fixed up her bob within a few minutes. I think it will take some time for Miss P to warm up to getting pampered, but if she’s anything like mom, that should happen in no time! Thanks to Kate for letting us come at the end of the day, when it was quiet and client free. (It’s an amazing salon if you’re looking for a place to try!)
I’ll leave you with some adorable pictures of Peyton’s Valentine week. Some of you have commented on her adorable outfits. Yes, I get her dressed every day and take a picture every single morning. I text the picture of the day to both sets of grandparents, since they all live far away. And I promise, P wears socks (even tiny shoes!), it just doesn’t seem like it in pictures. I promise she stays nice and toasty inside!
To see more pictures and other updates and articles I’ve written, head to my Facebook page and click “LIKE”.
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Stacey, God has plans for this little gal. Warms an old man’s to see Peyton growing stronger each day.
I was so tickled to see Peyton walking in the video.She is so adorable, and has certainly come a long way. Thanks for sharing these special moments.
HI!Love reading the new posts.She has come a long way.
HUGS jane
Enjoy thsee days, Stacy. They go by so quickly. Peyton is a Dollie! Saw your video of her walking. What a proud and thrilling moment! God has heard all of our prayers and provided for Peyton. She is growing into a strong toddler. May she and you continue to be blessed beyond measure. Joy, smiles and happiness!
I love it! Such a cutie!!! And I just want to pat-pat-pat her little bum when she wears those jean jeggings. haha! (I know that sounds weird, but you know what I mean). 🙂 On a serious note though, I love what the woman said in the comment above that “God has heard all of our prayers…” because she is right. While you and your family have been praying for P (and P&A), we, too, have been praying for them and for you. Earnestly and sincerely. Thanks for sharing your journey with us. It matters. <3
So adorable as usual mother like daughter
Love it when I see that I have an update to read on this little one!
I have followed your journey from day one! I look forward to each Facebook post and the blog. I was so excited to see Peyton walking last week. I am so happy that she is doing so well. I can see how much joy she brings! Thank you for sharing!
She’s walking for 3. Huzzah !!
Little Miss Peyton is just so cute, she is such a little Doll with her new hair cut, but she’s adorable in anything that you put on her. She’s growing up so fast and I look forward too all post and pick. Every week. I agree our prayers have been heard and will continue to be for you all. Hugs you both.
My daughter thinks socks and shoes are optional too. 🙂
Everything Miss P does she does in the name of her siblings. They continue to live through her. As she gets older and understands her life story she will feel that strong bond and she will continue to amaze us with each accomplishment. She will always have guidance from her angels.
Miss P is a miracle, no doubt! I love the updates, even the not so happy ones but this one made me shout tears of joy! Loved the video and am so thrilled to see all her progress.
Way to go Miss P . Now you can keep up with Riley and Mom & Dad will have to Chase both of you. Having had a preemie I understand all the little feats of accomplishments. Miss P you are growing up so fast and learning so much. You are destined for great things ahead!! Keep up the good work- girl power!!
Have you seen that commercial (think it’s for diapers – no it’s for Gerbers. Anyway, the mom is saying that her daughter decided not to wear pants that day. It’s really cute and I laugh at it everytime I see it when she goes past for about the third time with her pants on her head. It reminds me of Peyton. She seems so sunny and bright and giggly all the time and what everybody said above is true. We WAIT for these moments and pass them on to friends. “Did you see Stacey’s post? Peyton’s WALKING!” You are so generous to share her with us. Can’t wait to see her walking across the stage to get her diploma. LOL – kidding. None of us wants it to go THAT fast.
Jan
Very beautiful pictures, she is a cute girl!