Words, words, words

They are popping up where we least expect them.

"Apple"

"Yes"

"puppy"

And slowly, they are gaining context and intentionality.

Today, Jason offered Sam a waffle. Sam smiled and shook his head "no".

Sometimes, Sam likes to joke around with head shakes. Sometimes "no" actually means "yes, but I'm being silly."

So Jason asked him, again: "Sammie, do you want a waffle."

And with his little voice, sure and simple, Sam responded "No."

Verbally.

Not as a repetition. Not as an exploration of sound. Not as a passing sing-song play.

"No."

An affirmation of his wants and needs. The first of what I am becoming increasingly convinced will become a new way of communication.

A word, spoken with intention.

A window into his frame of mind.