Growing Up

Lately I've found myself telling my kids to "stop growing!" They aren't listening (big surprise) and each month or so I make another trip to the store to buy another pair of pants for their lengthening limbs. For the most part this "growing up" deal is good. The older my kids get, the closer we are to reaching an understanding in our relationship (or so I tell myself). But every once in a while the growing pains take a little shot at my heart.

Today we dismantled the crib. It was a necessary move (Curtis has taken to standing on the ends of the crib in order to access the "panes" on his shelf). But, as I watched Ian take each part of his hand-crafted crib down and place it aside, I have to admit I suddenly felt laden with emotion.

This is it.

We have officially moved on to another phase. One that doesn't include cribs, burp rags, receiving blankets, baby lotion, etc. etc. And despite the lump in my throat...I'm okay with it.

And, apparently, so is he.