Independence Day

I know July 4th has passed. We're talking about Little Man's Independence here. Up until now he's been a cute, cuddly, smiley baby who has done whatever we desire. We've taken him to restaurants, parks, libraries, museums, really anywhere we wanted to go. But, I'm starting to sense a change in him.

We used to quietly read to him every night and he would snuggle in our laps looking at the book and perhaps reaching to touch the pictures. But, lately he's started squirming, arching his back, reaching to wiggle out of his mama's arms and protesting -- quite loudly -- if he is unsuccessful. When I sit him on my lap while we're eating at friends' homes or restaurants, he bangs loudly on the table, snatches food unceremoniously off others' plates, and reaches for whatever sharp and sparkly objects he can find. He's decided he doesn't much care for his car seat and wriggles and protests as I strap him in.

Don't get me wrong: His new skills are cute and I'm proud of all the new things he's learning. But, I'm a little sad that this new change is coming. He'll be crawling soon, feeding himself, and wanting to cuddle even less. Once school starts and we're all back to work and our normal routine, time is going to fly even faster.

Do I look like a big boy to you?