Growing Up Too Fast

I've become aware of dramatic changes in Felix. Over one weekend there was a marked difference as several milestones were met. One was the removal of his training wheels (see Dana's post). Another was this subtle difference in the selection of a book at the library. Prior, all the books were suggested by one of us or similar to something he already read. This time, as Dana tells it, he pulled a book off the shelf, read it to himself and decided to bring it home! The third and most painful moment for me, was during a game of Uno. For most of Felix's 6 years I have enjoyed a special status. It isn't that he was a Momma's Boy or anything, he just adored me, as I do him. However, during this particular game it became apparent that everything had changed. Repeatedly hit with draw twos and fours, skips and such, I began to notice a trend. Felix wouldn't play a bad card against his dad so I was taking the full brunt of his hand. Dad is cool. Dad drums, dad wrestles, dad excels at legos and has that deep voice that commands respect. Mom can be climbed on, clinged to, and played like a fool with a tilt of the head or a slight whimper to elicit sympathy. The shift in status was temporary but I am keenly aware that my days are numbered. There is not an infinite amount of snuggles left. Some day, way too soon for me, he will not want me to hug him in public, he won't share wishes and secrets with me, he will grow up. Way too fast. - Renae