You know the moment, the one of wonder or discovery or excitement. It can be as simple at the neighing of a horse or a ladybug crawling across the sidewalk. Eyes light up, there’s a squeal, maybe enthusiastic pointing or dancing of feet, and then it happens:

They lock eyes on you for affirmation.

If you smile and nod the joy continues, often escalating. It’s hard not to smile or laugh at the grand enthusiasm that overflows as they simply discover life. Things we rarely even notice are reason for joyful celebration in their tiny minds. A bird flying over! A train whistling! A spoon to clang on the counter! The simple, unadulterated joy of childhood.

Let’s be certain we don’t miss it.

Those eye-locking moments of affirmation tell her she matters. They tell her she is important, even now, unable to fully articulate her emotions, we get it. We love that she loves the splash of the puddle, because we love her.

We see you, darling girl. We see your tiny toes in the water. We see your shoes all soaking wet. Does it feel cold? Do you like how it splashes everywhere? We see it. All of it. We see you.

I hear it darling girl, the sound of the fly buzzing in the window. Is he trying to get out? Can we catch him? He won’t hurt you, I promise. He’s just a buzzy little fly. I hear him, darling girl. I hear you.

I feel you darling girl, patting my shoulder as I scoop you up for a cuddle. I feel every gentle pat of your tiny hand. I love you too, sweet baby. I feel you, always.

It takes all of 3 extra seconds to miss them, these individual, invaluable moments. We’ve all seen it, time and time and time again… the dad checking email, the mom scrolling thru status updates. The mind-numbing siren call to phone screens, computer screens, television screens. Wake up, moma. Open your eyes, papa. Three seconds. Miss them and you'll miss the beauty of childhood.

Life-giving beauty is unfolding right before your eyes.

Don’t miss it.