Alright, folks – let’s cut to the chase: walking is overrated.
Yeah, I see you raising your eyebrows. But honestly, am I the only one who thinks babies are way less trouble when they’re purely on the crawl-and-drool program? (Not to mention the added aerobic workout you as a parent get from constantly chasing your little speed demon on fours.)
Well, I would have you know science even backs me up on this, so it’s legit.
Right. Let’s roll with this for a second. Between you and me, in this great parenting gig, there’s a lot to look forward to, and watching your munchkin take those first wobbly steps pretty much tops the list.
And yet, here you are, anxiously anticipating that momentous stride.
And what’s with the whole ‘first steps’ countdown? It’s not like they’re going to start sprinting marathons the moment they balance themselves on those tiny feet! I mean, do we have to be all “Oh my God, it’s happening!” about it?
So to all anxious mamas out there, take it from someone who’s been there, done that: walking, it’s all a big hullabaloo about nothing.
The Infamous Walking Milestone: What’s the Fuss?
Here’s the scoop: your tiny, drooling human will soon trade the crawl for a brave, albeit wobbly, strut – and for some reason, this is getting your knickers in a twist. But is the stress warranted or are you just falling prey to societal “milestone mania?”
Buckle up, folks, because according to CDC stats, most ankle biters are off and “cruisin'” by their first birthday. Yep, suited, booted, and ready to explore every un-sanitized corner of your once-tidy abode.
Yet, trust me, the walking milestone is more of a comedy sketch than a horror show. Why, you may wonder? Just wait till you’re navigational support for a cherub with the grace of a one-legged pirate on a slippery deck, hilarious isn’t it?
A History of Parental Obsession : What are the signs that my baby is ready to start walking?
Well, isn’t that the million-dollar question, isn’t it? When does the quiet, cooing newborn phase morph into the chaotic world of an adventurous toddler?
Honestly, it’s kind of like predicting tomorrow’s weather – you really can’t tell until you’re in the thick of it.
- First things first, your tiny cuddle buddy might start pulling themselves up onto everything they can reach. Yes, this includes your heartstrings.
- Then you’ll notice the ever-so-adorable ‘cruise control’ phase. That pertains to not ships, but them sidestepping around the room holding onto furniture (proof that evolution favours survival).
- There’s also that notorious bear walk. While it may seem like they’re auditioning for a role in Planet Earth 3, it’s just them on all fours but with a straight back.
- Be prepared for the squat and scoop – the art of picking up a toy while maintaining squatting balance, takes skill!
- Don’t miss the stunning, gravity-defying one leg stand. You might find it’s time to bust out your camera, as your living room transforms into a mini Cirque du Soleil.
- Then there’s the victory pose: hands in the air, shrieking with joy. Celebrate with them, but maybe keep a pillow nearby, just in case.
- Lastly, the one we’ve all been waiting for: that first, seemingly impossible, stand-alone, independent, world-shattering step. Grab the tissues, folks.
Oh, parenthood. Turns out it’s less about what we expect and more about holding on for a roller coaster ride of emotions and milestones.
So, remember those days when life was as simple as deciphering your baby’s cry and the toughest decision was between organic puree or homemade mashed veggies?
Yeah, brace yourself. ‘Cause those days are officially over. They’re replaced by a strong desire for bubble-wrap onesies and a better grip on your own sanity. Welcome to the beautiful chaos of toddlerhood.
Should I be worried if my baby is not walking yet?
Okay, breathe, fellow parent. Seriously, just take a big, exaggerated inhale and exhale, because let’s face it – ain’t nobody got time to stress about each and every milestone.
I mean, your tiny human is a unique masterpiece, not a mass-produced car model pulling off an assembly line (pretty sure they don’t come with 4-speed walkers either).
According to the Mayo Clinic, most babies start walking somewhere between 9 and 15 months, but some may take a little more time and that’s perfectly normal. (But sure, tell yourself that when you’re having a 2 AM worry-party).
Now, I’m not saying don’t watch out for signs and be engaged. All I’m saying is, buy yourself some mental peace creamy latte and cut yourself some slack.
Remember, no two babies are the same and hence their journey to pitching headfirst towards the coffee table (aka walking) isn’t going to be the same either. So, quit playing the comparison game and celebrate an army crawl or sweet bum shuffle when you see it—it’s all progress!
Feel free to consult your pediatrician when you feel it’s due, not because Martha from the park said it was. In the great words of someone somewhere, “You’re doing just fine, pumpkin!”
So, Your Miniature Human Takes a Dive: Now What?
So there you are, sipping on your lukewarm coffee (because who has time for hot coffee anymore?), when your little space invader decides to kamikaze-dive right off the sofa. And just like that, your heart leaps into your throat faster than a kangaroo on a trampoline.
Now, before you wrap your bundle of joy in 27 layers of bubble wrap, let me tell you this: Tumbles are part of the whole ‘tiny human learning to walk’ deal.
According to a survey by Science Daily, toddlers can take a spill an average of 17 times per hour while they’re learning to walk. Ouch, right?
But here’s the kicker: these little stunt doubles are built tougher than they look (ever watched a toddler wipeout and pop up with a grin?). So, catch your breath, mama. They’re gonna be just fine. (Still, maybe ease up on the bubble wrap idea, yeah?)
Is There a Doctor on Speed Dial? Hushing Fears on Kids’ Falls
Just how many band-aids will you go through before junior hits the teenage years? I mean, it’ll feel like your kiddo is auditioning for a job as a stunt double with all the falling they’re about to do.
But wait – before you go ordering a gross of bubble wrap and investing in a defibrillator, let me tell ya, this is totally normal. (I mean unless they’re attempting tightrope walking across the grand canyon, then you may have some concerns).
Here’s the lowdown, according to research by the CDC, falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injuries for kids.
Now, don’t let the parent alarm reactivate, alright? Remember, these are “nonfatal” injuries. We’re talking grazed knees, bumped noggin’, and maybe even a bruised ego.
So take a deep breath, keep the doctor on speed dial (it makes for a great baby shower gift), and remember it’s all part of this wild ride called parenthood.
No Boo-boo: Why Kids Falling is Normal, Really!
Now, let’s get straight to it, shall we? Bumps, tumbles, and downright nosedives are all just part of the crazy jamboree we fondly refer to as ‘child development’.
According to the Great and All-Knowing CDC, most kiddo falls are as harmless as your aunt’s fluffy fruitcake at Christmas.
So, next time your little one takes a digger, don’t stress. Life is a playground and they’re just desperately trying to figure out how the slide works!
How to Play it Cool: When to Freak, When to Let it Slide
Ever find yourself ‘nearly’ hyperventilating when your quaint little dumpling decides to channel their inner adventurer and fling themselves face-first into a sea of plush toys? Yeah, the first rule of Toddler Fight Club: don’t freak out every time your kid does a faceplant.
- Start by distinguishing between a dive and a dangerous fall. If they topple over while trying to reach for that shiny toy, that’s just them being ambitious.
- Cushioning the environment is also a smart move. Secure the hard-edged furniture, get soft mats or rugs to break the falls.
- Equip yourself with the basics of first-aid. Not that you’ll need it every time they tumble, but knowing what to do in the off chance they get a scrap can be a stress reliever.
- Here’s the kicker: resist the urge to rush over every single time they hit the deck. They pick up on your reactions. If you’re cool, they’ll learn to be cool too.
Don’t worry, even if you do sometimes freak out—majority of parents do. Seriously, according to a study, 90% of parents admitted to freaking out during the first few tumbles. So, welcome to the club, pal!
And then, there’ll be times when you’ll be nailing it. Seeing your little bug fall, doing a quick assessment, and then making the call to just let it slide. Not all angels have wings, some have spilled juice stains on their shirts.
At the end of the day, remember, freaking out or calming down is not a judgement on your parenting. It’s just another Tuesday in the super crazy, stress-inducing, “why-did-I-sign-up-for-this” adventure called parenthood.
The Parent Marathon: Keeping Up With a Walking Wunderkind
Ever wondered what training for the Olympics would feel like? Well, congrats! You’re about to find out.
When your tot transitions from the crawls to the staggers, it’s go-time. This stage is a full-on social and physical marathon for parents.
There’s no stopping them now (Seriously, there isn’t). You’ll be chasing your mini Usain Bolt from dawn to dusk, doubting the sanity of having removed the baby gates. The delightful squeals of joy echoing around the house as they terrorize the family cat can only be offset by your gasps for breath.
By the end of the day, you’d easily mistake your living room for a triathlon training ground. And this, dear friends, is just the qualifying round.
How long does it typically take for babies to become proficient walkers?
So, you’re anxiously clutching your coffee (or wine, no judgment here), and wondering, “When the heck will my little beast master the art of bipedal human movement?
Rest your fretting soul, dear comrade. According to the Healthline baby schedule, most kiddos start to waddle between 9 to 18 months.
But let’s call it as it is: that’s a timeframe with the precision of a lollipop covered in lint, right? Some mini-mes grasp the idea within weeks, while others, seemingly more invested in their fascinating toe exploration, might take a couple of eyebrow-raising months.
Got a late bloomer? Don’t sweat it.
Einstein was four before he started walking, and look how he turned out! (I may or may not have just made that up, but it sounds good, doesn’t it?).
In essence, now that you’re thoroughly confused by this absurdly wide ballpark, let’s cling to composure and remember one fabulous mantra: You’re doing amazing, and so is your future, possibly clumsy, but absolutely adorable walker-in-training.
What are the signs that my baby is ready to start walking?
Oh, you’re wondering how to know if your little bundle of joy is all set to start the waddling journey?
Well, aside from the sudden appearance of gray hairs on your head (joking… well, sort of), there are some tell-tale signs that your mini-me is revving up to walk the talk.
From upgraded tummy time sessions to a weird fascination with standing, your infant is basically staging their own mini drama to hint that something big is about to happen.
- Your tiny tot will love tummy time more than ever before. It’s all about that core strength, baby!
- They’ll start pulling themselves upward using furniture (or your limbs) as their personal jungle gym.
- Next, your little acrobat will begin to experiment with balance, like a cute drunken yogi.
- Development of a peculiar charades interpretation, where ‘standing’ is their winning point.
- They might dabble in a bit of ‘cruising’—walking while holding onto stuff. Yes, including your frightened cat or the TV remote.
- Increased curiosity and exploration – if it’s on the floor, they’re headed for it (uh-oh).
- Sudden bouts of independence—feeding themselves, defiant diaper changing episodes. Basically, they’re leveling up.
And just like that, the subtle hints are unveiled – as if your bambino is a budding Sherlock, leaving clues about their grand ‘I’m-going-to-walk’ plan.
A good friend of mine once told me her little one’s sure sign was emptying the bottom drawer of the dresser and using it as an unstable push cart.
Death-defying stunts? Nah, just a regular Tuesday for a baby.
So brace yourself, my friend. Playtime’s over – welcome to the hilarious, terrifying, and ultimately beautiful world of baby’s first steps.
Are there any tips to encourage my baby to start walking?
So, you’re looking for ways to nudge your little cherub closer to that oh so anticipated ‘walkabout’? You’ve come to the right place! Let’s pass you the so-called Holy Grail of infant locomotion – a bevy of tricks to get those little legs toddling.
- Begin with games that promote balance, like gently swaying your baby from side to side. You’re basically aiming for sea legs without the sea sickness!
- Try ‘assisted walking’: Hold your baby’s hands and encourage them to walk towards you, all while grinning like a proud coach at the Olympics.
- Create a ‘landing strip’: Leave enticing toys just out of reach. This is basic motivation, Karen – put that hoover or your precious antique vase out of reach so they can’t crawl to ’em.
- Act like an overzealous cheerleader: Applaud their smallest achievements. Yes, no achievement is too small, even if it’s just standing for a second without toppling over like a felled tree.
- Give them plenty of playtime with older tots: Babies excel at copycatting. Seeing others walk around might make it seem more like a fun game and less like a daunting task.
- Sign them up for baby yoga, if that’s your thing – Remember, we’re not aiming for the downward dog yet!
- And finally, take a chill pill! Babies can sense when you’re anxious.
Remember the first time Zoe took a step without any help, face beaming like she’d conquered Everest? It wasn’t the end of the world when she face-planted two seconds later, was it?
It’s the journey that counts, not the destination. So, haul out those home videos of your baby’s first steps, or better yet, create new ones. You’re in for some Oscar-worthy performances, my friend!
Toddler Teeter-totter: The Comedic Side of Their First Steps
Ever watched a baby take those first, wobbly steps, falling, getting up, and trying again, all with a goofy grin that rivals a circus clown’s best day at work? Now that is pure comedy gold, folks.
Who knew that a baby’s walking journey could be fodder for floor-rolling laughter and instant mood uplifters?
If you’ve been fretting over the strenuousness of the impending walking milestone, take a breather, parental-referee-in-the-making, because it’s not all stress and worries.
According to the Parents Magazine , the wobble-walk phase, albeit a tad nerve-wracking, can be one of the funniest periods in your growing baby’s life — plenty of mini tumble and comic relief to balance out the anxiety.
Grab a cup of something strong (coffee or otherwise, we won’t judge), and let’s dive headfirst into the absurdly hilarious world of babies taking their initial steps, also known as the ‘Epic Faceplant Saga’.
Slip, Slide and Laugh: When Toddlers Walk Like Drunken Seagulls
Heaven forbid that moment when your ankle biter suddenly decides gravity is no longer the boss of them! Yes, they go from chill diaper slugs to adorable, if rather unstable, mini-humans putting one foot in front of the other (kind of).
So, you’re marveling at this wonky strut they’ve got going on, and it hits you: they’re walking like they’ve had a few too many at the milk bar.
It’s humorously frightening, and yes, you’re allowed to find the funny side of this sobering milestone. One minute they’re at point A, the next they’re on their cute bums at point B, and you’ve nearly had two heart attacks and a stroke in that fractured second.
Toddler Tumbles: Their Grace is Only Matched by Their Determination
You’ve been waiting for this moment since they arrived, right?
Well, hold on to your seats, dear moms, because it’s about to get spectacular! Or spectacularly messy, depending on how you look at it. I mean, have you ever seen a toddler attempt to walk? It’s like watching a puppy try to figure out how to use its back legs.
Now, before you bust out the “I’m the worst mother in the world” badge because your little bambino hasn’t aced their walk-about yet, here’s a reassuring statistic. Did you know that some kids don’t even start walking until they’re around 17 months old? Yup, every child is unique in the timeline of their developmental milestones, some are quick to conquer the walking fortress, and some enjoy their time at the crawl stage.
So, if your offspring is more of a sitter than a strider right now, don’t freak out. Also, remember that the first steps are not necessarily indicative of future Olympic prowess. Just saying.
And while we’re on the subject, remember – these little humans learning to walk are nothing if not persistent, like tiny, diaper-clad Energizer Bunnies. Seriously, their determination is truly awe-inspiring. You may want to take notes.
Walking: It’s Just a Phase. They’ll Soon Be Running Everywhere
So your tiny daredevil has just started walking, eh? High-fives all round (or maybe just a well-deserved glass of wine for you).
Now, I hate to be the harbinger of hilarious calamity, but this, my dear, is only the beginning. As you wipe those tears of joy (and let’s be honest, a smidge of heartbreak too), brace yourself for the next stage: baby Usain Bolt.
Here’s a fun little nugget for your stress bank: according to some seriously smart folks, by the time they turn two, those chubby legwarmers of your little one will feel capable enough to take on a marathon.
Okay, not a full marathon per se, but they will be running around the house like rabid squirrels on a sugar high.
Remember, sleep is overrated. Welcome to the Grand Prix of parenting, my friend.
The Power Play: How Walking Changes the Family Dynamics
Ah, walking: a game-changer in your household that, pretty much, turns the tables on everything you thought was under control.
Remember those peaceful days when you were basically the puppet master, dictating every nap, every meal, and guessing the mystery behind every cry?
Well, they are gone. With your baby’s first steps, their newly found signs of autonomy bring a whole new dynamic, a power redistribution in your Mini-Me-and-You universe. Prepare! Revolution is in the air, a coup led by pint-sized rebels draped in (the most adorable) diapers.
Fasten your seatbelts – this is gonna be the ride of your life as you navigate through the twists and turns of post-walking family dynamics.
Should I be worried if my baby is not walking yet?
common for babies to take their sweet time learning to walk. Some of them just like being pampered and carried around like Roman emperors, who wouldn’t, right?
It’s also worth mentioning that every baby develops at their own pace, which the good folks over at the CDC also wholeheartedly endorse.
They say babies usually start walking anywhere between 9 to 17 months, so cut your little munchkin some slack. I mean, they’re still figuring out their left foot from their right.
Bottom line, don’t break out in a cold sweat if your baby isn’t walking yet. Honestly, they’ll be pulling your curtains down and terrorizing your pet in no time.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when my baby starts walking?
Listen, walking baby equals ninja baby. Sleuthy and slithering, your newly anointed biped will soon be poking tiny fingers into guarded realms.
Prepare yourselves for an engaging game of baby versus house: parent edition.
- Let’s kick things off with corner protectors. Your home is now a minefield of edgy danger zones. Couch corners, tables, countertops – protect or prepare for the bruise parade.
- Don’t forget those sneaky little outlets. Unless you fancy your cherub looking like Einstein post-experiment, invest in electrical plugs. They’re as crucial as getting that last piece of chocolate.
- Aim high, dear parent! Elevate everything. From remotes to razors, anything graspable and throwable is on the hit-list.
- Boy, those stairs look like Mount Everest now, don’t they? Baby gates are your new best buddies. Install them and rest easy.
- Grant your potions and lotions a new abode, high and above. You don’t want your tot mistaking your Chanel No.5 for apple juice.
- Buckle up for baby! Secure all furniture to the walls. Your munchkin’s Hercules-like strength may surprise you.
As my Grandma Mabel used to say, “A walking baby is kin to a calamity.” Never a truer word spoken.
So, strap in, strap up and hold onto your sanity.
Cherish these moments, my friend. In the blink of an eye, you’ll be doing this all over again – only next time, with a toddler that has insects on their hit-list. Oh, joy!
Are there any milestones or achievements to look out for as my baby progresses in their walking journey?
So, you’re on Baby Walking Watch, huh? Well, isn’t this just a barrel of (nervous) monkeys?!
- First on the milestone map, keep an eye out for them cruising – no, not in a cool sports car (even though that’d be a sight), but around furniture while grabbing hold of it.
- Next, their legs might start to look like they’re doing a little cha-cha-cha – that my friend, is the infamous “toddle”.
- Finally, the grand reveal – walking with confidence! They’ll move like they own the place (and let’s face it, they kinda do).
Now, each of these milestones has its own timeline up in the baby headquarters (did I mention there’s a humongous chart for this?).
And as they teeter-totter along, remember, don’t sweat the small stuff – or the big, wild, flailing steps. Cheers to this journey!
But let’s talk brass tacks for a sec. How do you know it’s kickoff time for taking the big leap?
Who Moved the Exit? Walking Towards Independence
Now, this is not a drill, folks.
This is as real as it gets. Your soft, round bundle of coo and goo is now more akin to a drunk, seafaring bird navigating a slippery deck.
According to sources, most toddlers typically start walking independently by their first birthday. Exciting, yes. Terrifying? Oh, you bet. But remember, this independence streak is kind of the whole point of parenting.
The aim of the game?
To raise them so they can one day leave the nest and fly (without face planting, hopefully).
Take a deep breath, fasten your seatbelt and keep your hands and feet inside the ride at all times. You’ve entered the thrilling rollercoaster of toddlerhood.
Cheers and Tears: The Emotional Rollercoaster of Their First ‘Bye Bye’
Right, so hands up if you thought standing ovations were strictly for Broadway legends and rock gods? Twist in the tale, folks.
Turns out the realm of dramatic award performances has charmingly extended from the scintillating stages too, oh you know, your average nursery.
I mean, do we even remember the Academy Awards? Pfft, you haven’t seen a true award-worthy performance until your little wunderkind proudly mumbles their first ‘Bye Bye’, wanders off, only to look back and burst into crocodile tears because they have no idea where they’re going.
That, my friend, is script that’d have Spielberg sobbing into his snack box.
What should I do if my baby falls frequently while learning to walk?
So your tiny human is taking a header or two? First off, breathe, it’s okay. Seriously, every baby goes through the “face meets floor” stage, like a rite of passage; it’s hilarious (usually), and mostly harmless.
- Remind yourself – they’re made of rubber and magic. Kids bounce back. Literally.
- Keep a close eye, but resist swooping in at every misstep. They need to learn balance, and babying them won’t help.
- Soft environments are your best friend. Not to capsulate them in bubble wrap, but consider plush rugs and foam mats.
- Fall-Proof the house as much as you can – you know, round corners, gates on stairs, the whole nine yards.
- Encourage them, even when they take a spill. Their sobs are half “Ouch” and half “Why is mama horrified?”
- Don’t panic. Babies can smell fear. It’s a fact. They will grow conscious and scared if you are.
- Talk to your pediatrician if the falls seem excessive or awkward in a way that ‘smacks’ of more than just clumsiness.
Personal story: when my nugget started walking, her favorite pastime was literally dropping to her bum from standing; it was a bit terrifying. Then we realized she was laughing her diapers off with the smallest beady eyes sparkling with mischief. Babies are weird and resilient, remember that.
How can I baby-proof my home to ensure a safe environment for my walking baby?
So, your little explorer is off, huh? Fabulous! Now, you’re likely obsessing over turning your home into a toddler-proof fortress.
- Padding is your new best friend: Those hard-edged coffee tables? Giant forehead magnets. Get those corners padded, pronto!
- Secure furniture: Babies have an uncanny knack for pulling things over. Anchor that bookshelf, stat!
- Stairs are the enemy: Okay, a bit dramatic, but baby gate those suckers.
- Kitchen confidential: Cabinet locks – the unsung heroes of babyproofing, keeping your china (and your sanity) intact.
- Outlet covers: Tiny fingers, meet tiny holes. Not on our watch, electricity!
- Toilet locks: Gross, right? But also, necessary.
- Forget the floor is lava: The floor is toys. Pick up after playtime, unless stepping on LEGO is your idea of fun (spoiler alert: it’s not).
Now, doesn’t that feel better?
Babyproofing isn’t about transforming your home into a sterile, fun-free zone. It’s about taking the edge off, easing some anxiety, and giving you the freedom to laugh a little more freely when your miniature explorer takes a tumble.
Remember, each small step for them is one giant leap (or nervous shuffle) towards independence.
Go ahead, snap a photo of your padlocked toilet. We promise, it’ll be a hit at the kid’s graduation party.
What are some strategies for dealing with the emotional rollercoaster of watching my baby take their first steps?
Listen, you’re not the first mom to feel like you’re riding a bull at a Texas rodeo when your kid starts toddling around. No one warned you about the emotional whiplash, right? One moment you’re swelling with pride, the next you’re biting your nails fearing the faceplant in three, two, one…
- First off, get a grip (on your emotions, not your kid). Too much hysteria might make ’em nervous.
- Throw a family ‘First Walk Party.’ Nothing says ‘keep going, buddy!’ like balloons and a slice of mom’s chocolate cake.
- Those tiny tumbles? Instead of gasping in horror, applaud their bravery. They’ll dust themselves off and try again.
- Keep your camera handy. Not just for Instagram-able moments, but also to see how much they’re improving. Plus, they’re great for future blackmail!
- Celebrate every step (literally). You’re the cheerleader-in-chief, remember?
- Let them lead the way sometimes. A feeling of control can boost their confidence on two feet.
- Bonus tip- ugly crying in private is entirely okay. (I mean, how are they walking already?!)
To round this off: a friend once told me about how her boy, on his first proper walk, went straight to the cookie jar on the lower shelf (tricky little devil).
Watching him belly-flop, cookie in hand, she realized that they’re not just learning to walk. They’re walking towards their own little adventures. And that, my dear friends, is how you make baby steps feel like moon landings.
Strutting Towards the Finish Line: The Lighter Side of the ‘First Steps’ Finale
Walking, jogging, running, or, heaven forbid, doing a toddler version of parkour; it’s all coming, whether you believe it or not.
Every mom (and dad) gets that squeamish, yet over-the-top excited, feeling in their gut watching their baby do their wonky, wobbly walk of fame. Their legs are going everywhere, arms flailing; it’s like a pint-sized bodybuilder trying to strut his stuff. The, ‘I got this,’ look on their face is the pinnacle moment of this whole walking shindig.
Remember this CDC milestone chart, parents? Yeah, walking is just one tick box on that. There’s a whole world out there – swinging, skipping, maybe rollerblading? So, dust off that fear and anxiety. Tomorrow is another day and another goofy, gotta-capture-this milestone.
Pat yourselves on the back, folks. You’ve survived the great walking apocalypse. And what’s more, you’ve done it thriving on sleep deprivation and lukewarm coffee!
In conclusion, watching your baby walk is like watching a slow-mo video of a cat falling off a chair; it’s funny, heart-stopping, and unbelievably endearing. So, buckle up. This ride, my friends, is only just getting started.