How did this happen?

Well first of all, as you can see the boys break from each other was exactly what they needed, They are good friends again.

What I am referring to by the name of this post is W. How is he getting so big? I realized it more yesterday when we were playing in the back house. I usually keep the doors open to let in a breeze and so B to run around in the backyard and come back in as much as he wanted. Typically I station myself with W either inside or on a blanket in the grass. I have never had to worry about him crawling off as he hates the texture of the grass and the paved walkway. Until yesterday he and I were sitting inside and I was reading when I looked outside to check on B there was W wanting to play with the push car too. He crawled under the table and explored the yard on his own while I (attempted to stay calm) and observe from a distance. I finally interfered when the push car game started getting a little too rough. But both the boys had a blast having that little ounce of independence to explore the backyard. You should have heard the laughter from both of them as they smashed their faces against the glass at one other. So funny!

backyard adventure

  

Yesterday while W was taking a nap B and I went outside to play. B is becoming quite the brave one and finally decided to go discover every corner of the backyard. Usually he self contains himself on the pavement alone but yesterday he decided that it was his day to explore. He wandered over to the very end of our backyard where we have a couple on giant pine trees not to mention an old stump that he attempted to climb. He fell on his face a few times and got up without despair. He played in the mud and knocked over his ride on toy making big crash sounds. I think this little boy is slowly starting to loose his fear of everything. 

For a long time I questioned myself (surprising I know) because of his apprehension towards everything!  Other parents asked me why he was so scared and all I could respond was "that's just who he is" But I knew pushing him didn't feel right. I knew in my heart the day would come when he wouldn't cling to me with every startling sound or small fall. I had to trust and appreciate all those extra hugs because  he was soon going to be a "big boy" ready to explore the world. Well I think we are slowly getting there.And although I am so excited about seeing him spread his little wings a bit more. To be honest I am a little sad to say that my baby is becoming a "big boy" a little more each day. 

It's a big step for both of us. B exploring and me allowing him to take on a few challenges without me jumping to help him. Ugghhh....It's so hard not to sometimes. 

Dear Baby Bear

May you enjoy every pile of leaves you jump in and every knee scrape that you get. I hope to teach you that this world that our Lord created is beautiful and full of adventure. Have fun.

Love mama,

P.s. If you ever need an extra hug because you've gone too far. I'll try to be only a few steps away. :)