Thing One made a breakthrough on his pinkie control last night and was able to sign "I love you" in ASL (American Sign Language) for the first time. This is a tricky sign - you have to keep your pinkie and pointer finger pointing out while you hold your middle two fingers down against your palm. I think it is trickier than the live long and prosper hand gesture :) It differs from the "horns" / heavy metal sign because the thumb is extended rather than thumb toward the palm. The "I love you" sign is a combination of the signs for "I", "L" and "Y" - you can read more here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ILY_sign
Image found on Google image search - this image is all over the place but I couldn't find an original source to credit
Thing One is super excited about this. He has been working on this sign for almost two years at this point, which is a LONG time for a 2 1/2 year old! The expression on his face while he is concentrating on moving his pinkie independently is the cutest thing - such fierce concentration. He made the breakthrough while eating in his high chair last night. I was doing dishes with my back turned to him. I heard Thing One say "I love you", so of course I said "I love you" back. Then he kept saying it. I turned around to see him making the sign and beaming with pride.
I just wanted to share this moment with you all. The picture isn't a great picture in terms of quality but I think it is priceless in terms of content. I am so proud and full of love. I love Thing One and I love you.
I love you.
Pass it on.
