Recently, I found myself watching my 3-year-old son, Max, peacefully napping on a sunny afternoon. His little body curled up like a cherub, a soft halo of light streaming through the blinds. Observing my children in their slumber has always been a cherished ritual of mine. (I can’t be the only one who enjoys this, right?) In those moments, they appear like infants, allowing me to soak in their features and essence.
As I looked at Max, I noticed traces of his babyhood still lingering — his delicate skin and long lashes, his tiny fist clenched in a dream. Yet, there was something else that struck me. His legs had grown long and lean, devoid of baby fat, and his face bore a maturity I hadn’t seen before, as if he was beginning to ponder bigger, more complex ideas.
With summer fading, I was reminded that my youngest, my baby, is about to turn 4. The realization hit hard, and I couldn’t help but shed a few tears. Four is a significant milestone; it feels distinctly different from the earlier years of 1, 2, or 3. Those were the years of diapers (or the struggle to transition out of them), the adorable mispronunciations that make toddler-speak so endearing, and the constant need for naps to avoid meltdowns. They were the days of sippy cups, finger foods, and carrying a mini arsenal of snacks and wipes everywhere.
At four, children still need to be carried sometimes but can manage a decent walk. They crave cuddles but ask for them less frequently. They can fit in your lap, although their growing limbs spill over the sides. Their hair becomes thicker, and you find yourself digging through it to uncover those soft, baby-like tufts hidden beneath.
While four is not without its meltdowns (which now come with an added sprinkle of attitude), it also brings a newfound understanding. Four-year-olds grasp jokes, comprehend nuances, and often surprise you with their insight. Most days, they can power through without a nap.
Perhaps it’s the fact that I’m experiencing this transition right now, or maybe it’s because Max is my youngest child — my last baby. But I’m struggling with this shift to age four. It’s a challenge I didn’t anticipate, and I’m determined to savor every moment.
The only silver lining is that I also have a 9-year-old, who will soon be hitting the double digits (don’t get me started on that). For a while, Max will still seem little in comparison. But I’m all too aware of how quickly time flies, and that knowledge weighs heavily on my heart.
So, while I have the chance, I’m going to indulge in babying him. I won’t care what anyone thinks. If he doesn’t want to walk the short distance to pre-K, I’ll carry him. If a minor scrape on his knee prompts theatrical cries, I’ll scoop him onto my lap and cover him in kisses, believing wholeheartedly that Mommy’s love can ease any pain.
To my sweet, sleeping Max: Please take your time growing up. Let’s find a way to slow this down together. If you must grow, do it gently, for your misty-eyed mom who struggles to let go.
For further insights on parenting and home insemination, check out this article on Cervical Insemination. And if you’re looking for at-home insemination kits, Make a Mom has some reputable options. For more information on pregnancy and related topics, visit the World Health Organization.
In summary, embracing the transition to four can be bittersweet. It’s a time of growth and newfound independence, yet it also signals the end of babyhood. As parents, we must cherish these fleeting moments while navigating the emotional challenges that come with each developmental milestone.
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