Ruth: it's hard to know where to start.
The little munchkin is growing rapidly (don't they always?). She's still small for her age, according to those doctor's charts, but boy, is she strong and coordinated. She walks and runs with assurance, and even attempts a jump or two. She's brave, but a little on the shy side, preferring to observe kids at a safe distance before making friends.
Although still not officially talking yet, she's very persistent and communicative. One day she insisted on wearing her cowgirl boots pretty much the whole day. I had to hide them from her after awhile, since her calf muscles are a little big and the zipper was irritating her skin. Yes, she loves them that much.
As cliché as it is to say it, it's hard to imagine life without her now. It's hard to imagine what life will be like with two of these little independent thinkers trying to run this place. I'm so fortunate to be a freelancer, able to be with her at home, though I admit that balancing my clients, duties at home, and responsibilities to Ruth (and soon, another) is very difficult and stressful at times.
Since it's wedding season right now, which means a lot more things pulling me away from spending more time enjoying Ruth as she is, and paying attention to my pregnancy the way I did the first time around. Unfortunately, more videos get played in the house than they used to. I hire a babysitter to help me manage things. I'm laden with guilt about not being there for Ruth, and while I cognitively know that I'm not ignoring her all the time, and the things I'm doing are necessary for our income, my heart still aches on occasion.
Steve tells me not to worry; I'm doing a good job. Thank you, Steve.
The one thing that amazes me about Ruth right now? Refried beans are one of her favorite foods. Who'dathunkit?
