Joy of Joys

Victoria, being one, has been practising using words lately. She usually learns a new word and says nothing but that for a week or so until something new comes up. Her very first word was "hot", followed by "no" (which she says as she is doing something she is not allowed to do), then "more, then "Josh"...
For the last couple of weeks the word has been Daddy. It seemed to be a multi-purpose word for her. She called everybody daddy.
Then there was last night. We had been out for dinner as a family. Upon returning home, I got Vicki ready for bed. Then we sat down on the couch with daddy and blankie. She immediately looked over at Daddy and said, "Daddy" then climbed onto his lap. Many hugs and kisses followed, mixed with some "daddy's" and some giggles.
Then it happened. She was sucking her thumb, looking at me upside down, and she pulled her thumb out with an almost audible 'pop', and said, "Mommy". She then proceeded to climb onto me, bringing hugs and kisses and lots of "Mommy's". It was one of those defining moments, that reminds you of what a gift this small child is. Of how precious our relationship is. I was basking in the newly found "Mommy" when in walked Lexi. She came, gave me a kiss and said, "I love you, Mommy". She doesnt call me Mommy much anymore. It's usually Mom, but for some reason she chose then to say it. They never get too big for me to hear it.