Spring Sunshine

Most of the time, the growth of a child just sneaks up on a parent, unnoticed amid the washing of dishes, the feeding of little tummies, and the everyday routine.  Then, an unexpected milestone, or a pair of too-short-pants that seemed baggy only last month, or you go to get your little one out of bed, and it's like they've morphed into someone brand-new.  It's a miracle and a wonder.

I have moments like these at the park each spring.  We are hardcore park people; we are the last hold outs in the winter, and the first to test the equipment each spring.  Give me sunshine and a windchill above 35, and we're there.  The first trip of the spring is always incredible...it's been only about 3 months, but his growth in that quarter of a year is tangible.  The Nugget is so excited, he's coming out of his skin.  Within minutes, he is trying and achieving new things.  Like solo monkey bars...he can make it to the second bar now, and gracefully land on his feet.  His little legs couldn't reach this one ladder in the fall...now, with one demo from me, he clambers up like a squirrel.  He can go around babies with an, "Excuse me, please," without prompting.  He can do the run-push-leap onto the merry-go-round and skid his foot to slow it down.  He can introduce himself to new friends.  He remembers where we left the bag and can rummage in it himself to get his water bottle.  I don't get to catch him at the bottom of the slide anymore nor offer a boost up a ladder.  Toddler time is over.  Welcome to your childhood, Nugget.