Dear Sweet Pea: Who is such a big boy? I don’t know, do you know? This morning Papa asked me a question and I put my hands up and shrugged my shoulders, tilting my head to one side. From your highchair where you were eating your daily morning waffle you did the same. You are more entertaining than anything or anyone I know. I never know what to expect but you always deliver.
The Easter bunny came and brought you bubbles and a plastic truck full of goldfish crackers (your favorite snack in the world). We would blow bubbles for you and you would squeal in delight trying to smash them and ask for more when we stopped. We spent Easter with all your cousins and even though they are older and faster than you, you were happiest when you were right in the center of the action.
It’s the month of the molars! The first one arrived and the other three followed close behind.The new teeth seem to be improving your eating habits. One night this week you ate ham, french fries and some of an apple. Three new things in one night. That’s a record! You are also perfecting the art of brushing your teeth at night. You brush your teeth, stick out your tongue and clap when we’re done.
Spring has finally arrived and you love to be outside. Each day when I take you out of the car you stand in the garage and point at the birds (big-birds) and squat down so you can see them better. You love wagon rides and buggy rides. You are getting very good at letting me know what you want when you want it and you always want to sit in your wagon. 
Baby steps are starting to happen! On our first warm night of the year we had you dressed down in your onesie, no shoes or even socks and you realized you could stand up all by yourself, then hang out for a minute, then with much much coaxing, take your first steps. Ever since then you have wanted to walk with assistance everywhere we go. We’re trying very hard to get you to realize you can do it yourself but you aren’t quite ready yet. I want you to walk because I want to know that you are hitting that developmental milestone but I love walking with you holding your hand. It’s one of those mommy moments that I pictured when you were just a tiny baby in my arms that I’ve been able to realize. Thanks for that.
Because you were sick and off milk for a few days anyway we decided to stop your bottles. Because you protested so vehemently I caved in and went back to one bottle in the morning, but we no longer sit in your rocking chair in the dark before bed with a bottle. I miss that moment of connection, the time to process that the day is done, but I know it’s time. Each month you took up more and more of the rocking chair and my lap and I became more aware that you are not a baby anymore. Actually it was easier for me not knowing that the last night time bottle really was the last and you didn’t seem to mind so I followed your lead.
For each thing that goes away, something new and amazing emerges in it’s place. In order for you to grow I need to be able to let go, so that’s what I’m going to do. But don’t worry, I’ll hold your hand for now.
