"A New Beginning"

Ashley nodded happily, her mind still reeling with the idea of having another baby. She and Ryan had been on the same page about starting a family, and now it seemed like the perfect time. Just then, Kody's high-pitched voice cut through the room, "Mama!" Ashley's heart stopped as she turned to Kody, her eyes wide with excitement. Ryan's face lit up with a smile as he exclaimed, "Did he just say...?" Ashley couldn't believe it. Kody had been babbling for months, but this was his first real word. She felt a lump form in her throat as she replied, "Mama!" encouragingly, trying to get him to say it again. Kody looked up at her with big brown eyes and said, "Mama!" again, this time more clearly. Ashley's eyes welled up with tears as she jumped up from the couch and rushed over to her baby. "Mama's here, baby!" she cooed, scooping him up in a tight hug. Ryan joined in, wrapping his arms around both Ashley and Kody. "We're so proud of you, buddy," he said, beaming with pride. The three of them stood there for a moment, basking in the joy of this milestone. As Ashley held Kody close, she felt a sense of pride and wonder. Her baby was growing up, and it was happening so fast. She thought back to the long days in the NICU, worried sick about Kody's survival. Now, here he was, saying his first word and bringing so much joy to their lives. Ryan pulled back, a mischievous glint in his eye. "I think we should celebrate," he said, heading towards the kitchen. "Who's up for some ice cream?" Ashley laughed, still cradling Kody in her arms. "I think that's a great idea," she said, following Ryan into the kitchen. As they sat down to enjoy their ice cream, Ashley couldn't help but feel grateful for this little family of hers. They had been through so much, and yet, they were thriving. As they finished their ice cream, Ashley looked over at Ryan and smiled. "You know what this means, don't you?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Ryan raised an eyebrow. "What's that?" Ashley leaned in, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It means we're one step closer to being a big family." Ryan's face broke out into a wide grin. "I couldn't be happier," he said, pulling Ashley and Kody into a tight hug.