The "L" Word

For the longest time, we've been working with Cooper on saying "love" and explaining what love is, I mean, as much as you can to a 1.5 year old. We try to make sure Coop hears Philip and I talk about different things or people we love, and we ask Coop who or what he loves. Most times he points to Drake or the kitties! Or he will answer with a very soft and sweet "yes" when we ask if he loves Drake or if he loves Jackson or if he loves his blankie.

But, last night, we had a turning point. While we were sitting at dinner, Philip asked Cooper if he could say "love Mommy." Cooper smiled and looked at me, and Philip asked him again if he could say "love Mommy." And then in the sweetest little voice, Cooper looked at me and said "love mama." Ahh.... My heart was in a puddle on the ground. I think he could tell that was a special thing for Mommy to hear because he said it several times throughout the night. Sometimes prompted, sometimes on his own. But either way, he said it. And I'd like to think he knows a little about what it means, right?

Just before bedtime, when Philip was kissing him goodnight, I asked Cooper if he could say "love Daddy." And sure enough, he smiled at Philip and said "love dada." If that's not the best way to end your day, I don't know what is.