Before I was a parent, I would never have believed some of the things that give me such joy. One of the most amazing things to witness right now is Aidan blossoming socially. Watching your 3 year old develop these new friendships that are fun, fierce, silly, and awkward. It is truly touching to see it happening.
As we would sit beside Aidan’s isolette in those early days, I don’t think I even let myself REALLY imagine the boy I see before me today. The boy that would be going to preschool, going to a friend’s birthday party for the first time, and learning how to make friends.
So watching Aidan today at the zoo as he saw his friends Ryan and Brooke was a moment of sheer joy. I felt my heart leap a little and a tear came to my eye. The three of them said their excited hellos and in a moment of synchronicity just took each others’ hands and walked happily from exhibit to exhibit. They talked, made animal noises, made funny faces, shared snacks, and laughed…a lot.
I go to bed tonight with a sunkissed face and a grateful heart.
Oh…and a couple of cute ones with Daddy working with him on learning how to pump his legs on the big boy swing.
Arent kids the most AWESOMEST things you could ever imagine?? Those are great pictures too. Did he catch onto the leg pumping thing? Ricky’s 4 1/2 and still hasn’t quite “got it” yet.
He’s going to grow up such a happy and thankful little boy because his momma shows him how.
So nice to see how well he turned out. I think I have been to the place. It looks familar.
He is getting so big and my goodness he’s so mature! I know you are beyond thankful for Aidans outcome, you are truly blessed!!
You give me hope. We still need to learn to sit, but I have hope. And he is alive, I guess I shouldn’t ask for much more.
Erin…I am glad it gives you hope. I SOOO needed hope when Aidan was younger. Yet I would also tell you to allow yourself to feel discouraged and be honest with yourself about how hard this has been. Yes you love him. And yes he is alive. But as a mom we all want the absolute best for our children and you do too. It is absolutely possible to love your child with all your heart but hate all the things prematurity has done to your life.
Hugs!