Slow down, little one. You have only heartbeats to be a baby. A few moments to be a child. An eternity to be a grownup.

I see you watching them run and play. I can feel you leaning forward to join in the fun. I know you want to run with the pack, baby. But stay with me, just a little while longer.

It will all be over too soon. Before you know it, you, too, will be big. And momma will look at you with sorrow and say, “no honey, I cannot carry you.”

The next time I turn around, you will be a daring and energetic three year old…

The next moment a circumspect and opinionated five year old…

In the last few weeks you have begun to crawl, gotten two teeth, pulled yourself up to stand, and started eating from our plates.

You say “Mama” and I think you mean to.

I’m so proud, baby. But remember… there is no rush.