Your first steps

You've been taking steps since Memorial Day. The most you've taken: 15. Most of the time, it's a step here; a pivot there--but it's been such a joy watching you learn to walk.

I've been bad about writing to you via this blog. Your dad and I are writing a wine blog for Chicago Now, and it's sucking up most of my writing time.

You were named after the biblical Noah but not after the ark, the vines he planted. Many people don't know that part of the story, but Noah was the first person to plant a vineyard in the Bible.

In one month, you will turn one year. I keep flashing back to last June, my big belly full of you and so anxious for your arrival. Now, I watch you walk. From nothing to someone so incredible.

Your six-tooth smile all I need. And those curls on the back of your head...