Letting go

What a big boy you're becoming, Andrew! You've summoned the courage to go down slides by yourself. You have always been a cautious kid - not one to run right to the edge or tumble down stairs. But I take the blame for your hesitation at the playground. Last summer you were the perfect age to climb and explore and be a rough 'n tumble boy. You were 18 months - 2 years old. You had lots of energy to burn.

But last summer we learned that our family would be growing. You would be a big brother soon. And, for mommy, that meant a sick tummy and trouble getting off the couch for those beautiful summer days. Daddy took you to the park sometimes. So did some of our family and friends.



It wasn't until this spring that I really saw you try to tackle a slide and a playground. And my oh my - you were nervous. Slowly, the fearful cries turned into "Mommy, you slide with me?" and then "Hold my hand, Mommy." Finally, mid-summer, you've built up your confidence enough to go it alone.



What a big boy you are! I'm proud of you for doing what seems so hard for me to do - letting go. When you finally did let go, your face lit up like a Christmas tree. I love that you're careful and cautious, but I hope you keep learning when it's okay to let go.