Growing Up

Luke is changing and maturing at an alarming rate. It's like he is on an accelerated path and I can hardly keep up. It seems like just a few months ago he was a toddler...and he is clearly a preschooler now. He hasn't mastered any new physical feats - it seems his latest growth spurt is an emotional and social one. He is fully potty-trained (naps and nighttime included). He is developing opinions about things that he previously didn't care about (favorite color, choice of fruit at lunch time, etc...). He is incredibly conversational on an emotional level, not simply requesting things or refusing things. For instance, he said this to me this morning, "Mommy, you're the best. Let me kiss you, okay Mom?" You can imagine how my heart turned to mush! That little guy is such a love bug!
Last night, Luke fell asleep without his pacifier for the first time in nearly 3 years. This is a very big deal! Luke had such tummy issues as a tiny baby that his pacifier was a great source of comfort to him...and we gave it to him liberally. As a toddler, it was a bedtime comfort to him...and we didn't mind. However, as a three year old...it was time for the paci to go. We have had lots of conversations about how he is a big boy now and he doesn't need his paci anymore. He is quick to point out that our little babies use a paci because they are babies. So, like his older brother before him, we offered him a bribe...oh, I mean a reward for giving up his beloved pacifier.
Last night, it took Luke a bit longer than usual to fall asleep. There was no drama and no tears. He woke this morning with great excitement about his success and huge joy in anticipation of his shopping trip to buy his special toy today. My baby boy is growing up...sniff, sniff. I am so thankful for this little bundle of fun, enthusiam, joy, and boy who is becoming a little boy. What a joy to watch the changes taking place in him. Congratulations, Lukey-boy!