Growing Up

Apparently it isn't a cakewalk to be 16 months old.

Each day there are challenges. The challenge of standing on your tiptoes to try to open doors to go outside, and to not be able to turn the handle. The challenge of having to eat (or not eat) whatever is put in front of you with zero input of your own. The challenge of having to lie still while your mom changes your dirty diapers. The challenge of wanting to say so much, but being able to say so little. The challenge of wanting to be away from your mom and dad, but wanting them to be close at all times. The challenge of walking when the slightest breeze could lead you to an intimate date with concrete. The challenge of three (or four?) new teeth making their presence known simultaneously.

Many times a day, these challenges lead to tears. Big, elephant tears of confusion and frustration. It is so much fun to be bigger, faster, and more capable of doing things independently. It is so hard to realize the countless limitations that are still there.

From a mom's perspective I think this is kind of how it feels to be 16 months old. Considering this is our first child, I'm pretty sure some of my observations and assumptions are the opposite of the truth. However, I can almost feel Jaden's growing pains right now. It hurts a little for us both.