Waiting for the smiles

One of the most exciting moments for a parent is seeing her baby smile for the first time. That first "social smile" is the light at the end of a long, sleepless tunnel. For me, witnessing Nico's first intentional smile (pictured) directed specifically toward me is among the best moments in my life. Now I'm looking forward to Nolan's first smile.

Nico's first social smile happened in the early morning. Zombie-like, I was nursing him on the sofa in our California apartment. I was exhausted and both physically and emotionally drained when he suddenly beamed at me. He smiled at me for several seconds and excitedly, I woke up Vic to tell him the happy news.

Now I can't wait to see Nolan's smile. It should be any day now!