Ugh. My baby’s growing up. At lightening speed.
It’s been an incredible summer spending every waking moment with my family, adjusting to our life as a party of four. And even with my daily dose, I am noticing very quickly how much change is taking place in both my children. Easy to spot the transformation that takes place in my newborn, but it amazes me how blatant it is to see my once baby girl growing into her namesake of big sis. My baby’s growing up!
As she approaches Grade 2, I wonder if the realization that she is no longer the little buddy of the buddies program at school gives her the urgency to grow up and mature. Now being a big sister, the transformation has definitely taken place – almost overnight.
Here are the tell tale signs that my baby’s growing up:
HER CONFIDENCE IS NO LONGER JUST A NOTION
In this day and age of empowering girls, I’m thrilled to know my daughter is fortunate enough to be right in the midst of it. She knows how to say “no” (boy does she ever!), she has a good sense of who she is (as much as a 7 year old can, that is) and what she likes, she is proud of who she is (hence, her choice of bold and bright outfits – fringe and all, hello Kid Crush USA!), and unlike her mom at her age – she cares little to nothing of what people think of her. Go on, baby girl!
SHE KNOWS HOW TO TURN ON THE CHARM
Sass has never been an issue with this Little Mama of mine. Not so much in attitude, but in how she carries herself. We don’t have much patience for dramatics in our family but one can never have too much sass.
Or could they?
SHE IS BECOMING MORE REASONABLE
They say 7 is the age of reason – and over the summer, we’ve learned that this fact is indeed true. It’s so amazing to be able to have a conversation with Smallie and in the crux of a learning opportunity, she is actually absorbing the information. Just like a teeny adult. It’s mind blowing.
SHE HAS BECOME A THINKER
I sometimes forget to give Little Mama the space she needs to think on her own. I’m learning more everyday raising this little human that she has a mind of her own and she doesn’t need me to finish her sentences for her. She doesn’t need me to have an opinion on something. And she certainly doesn’t need me to have some good old fashioned “me time” to ponder on all of the above.
SHE STILL ENGAGES IN NONSENSE BUT IN A MORE SENSIBLE WAY
The one thing I love the most about having kids is how light they are with what life throws their way. Sure, we have the occasional end-of-the-world meltdown here and there, but for the most part nothing really phases this child. She’s lighthearted and doesn’t take life too seriously. The funny thing is, her comical side is making more sense to me. It’s like she took it up a notch as far as punch lines.
Ugh. My baby’s growing up.
SHE HAS LEARNED TO SPEAK UP FOR HERSELF
My whole life I have always been agreeable to a fault, and never one to stir the pot. It’s exceptional, really. But not in a good way. I’ve learned to internalize my thoughts on things, but I’m slowly changing that mentality – mainly for the sake of the little girl who looks up to me. She is now seeing that speaking your mind in a kind and loving way, is the only way to go. It’s the essential piece in our ongoing quest to teach our little ladies about self care – to know what you stand for, and be heard.
Loud… and proud.
Slowly, but surely, I’m accepting that my baby’s growing up, and I am embracing these very visible changes. Not easy, by any stretch, but she’s developing more and more into who she is and I am beside myself in awe.
Excuse me, while I go have a good cry now…
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**The LOOK:: Want it? GET it! Smallie’s adorable Hip Hop Fringe Top :: Kid Crush USA
DISCLOSURE: SASS & SMALLS WAS PROVIDED WITH THIS PRODUCT AS A GIFT.
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