25 October 2006

Let them be two

... or three, or four, or whatever their age is. That's what we're supposed to do, but I am one of those parents who hangs on and resists.

Today is Drew's birthday. His 2nd birthday. I can't help thinking of him as my baby still. We had resolved that he was our last child, so everything I did with him, I did thinking I'd never get to do it again. That resulted in a strong bond.

This week I made the huge step of giving him his first haircut. He has a beautiful head of blond curls, which contradict his chubby stature in such an endearing way. I guess you could say they are his saving grace. So I've been afraid to part with them, to essentially let go of his babyhood.

I guess the fear here is forgetting cherished moments with our children - when they are so tiny and still and eager. It doesn't seem fair; the amount of time we get to enjoy seems to pale in comparison to the amount of time we invest - actively, mentally, emotionally. All we can do, really, is live in the moment. You may be surprised, it might last longer than you think... (and those baby curls may just stick around).


15 comments:

Anonymous said...

Well he's still cute as ever!! ITA with the first part of your post about doing everything with him b/c he was your last, but now he's 2yo and you have a new little one. Thomas turns 2 in 2wks and I'm still in shock over it

Valarie said...

Happy birthday, Drew! love those curls.

I'm going through some of the same things with Howie, but for the opposite reason. He's our first and I don't know how to let him be anything but little.

ShelahBooksIt said...

He's so cute! Happy birthday, Drew! Having my own just-turned-two-year-old, I totally know where you're coming from. It's like he's a big boy already and that baby part with him is over and it makes me want to cry!

Anonymous said...

2 already?!?!? Holy cow! Happy birthday, Drew!

Tigersue said...

I have not told anyone this, but right after Abbie was born last year, I grieved for Kendra and the fact that she was not longer my "baby". As much as Abbie was wanted, and desired, I wished Kendra could have had a little more time as the youngest child. It was something I had not expected.

someone else said...

The time goes so quickly. You're wise to recognize it and treasure these moments. Each stage brings its own rewards though.

He's an adorable child!

sheri said...

Happy Birthday, Drew! Those curls are awesome!!!
And why do you think we space our kids so far apart? It took me 4 years before I could fathom another child besides Kyle. Same still stands now w/Kelly. *sigh*

Millie said...

What a beautiful little boy! I would have a hard time cutting off those curls, too.

I'm doing the same thing with Roz, but I'm pretty sure she WILL be our last (unless some tied-tubes-thwarting miracle happens).

Unknown said...

Happy Birthday, Drew! I hope the curls DO stick around...too cute :-)

smart mama said...

he's so cute- I think you'll be glad you hang on - the time goes so fast and I dig boys with curls!

Unknown said...

Hmmmm..curls. I LOVE curls.

Ivey's Mom said...

Happy Birthday Drew. My middle son turned 2 in September. He is adorable eating his cake. Sweet blonde curls!!!
Gwen

Melzie said...

What a cute & fun picture! His hair is adorable- and It's not like it's hanging in his eyes or anything. :) Happy birthday to him!

Carrie said...

He is so cute. I am trying to enjoy every stage my children go through and just savor it as it will be gone soon enough. I hope all things are going well for you.:)

Anonymous said...

What a sweet picture! Happy birthday little guy!