Following Max

Kyle went surfing this morning, so I took Max to the playground at our complex.  We played for a little and then he left and started walking around, so I decided to follow him and do some exploring.  As a parent, I am usually the one deciding what we do all day, every day, but it's awesome when I see Max making decisions "on his own."  Usually it's just deciding what book to read, or which ball to throw, but it was fun following him around our complex this morning (with a little guidance).  It reminded me of how quickly he's growing up and how I want to savor every second of it- hence the million pictures and videos I take! 

It wasn't that long ago that I just set him on the floor and handed him toy after toy to look at, but now he knows what he likes (basketballs, trucks & books) & he does a great job communicating it.  Even though that comes along with the occasional tantrum where he lies face down on the ground and grunts if he doesn't get what he wants, I'm excited for this next stage of his life!  I know it won't be long before he's making almost all of his decisions on his own, so I hope to nurture him and guide him well for as long as I can so that when he's all grown up he can make decisions that will make his mama proud.  Each day he will need me a little bit less, so I'm going to soak up every moment that he needs me now.  And now I'm teary eyed just thinking about Max not being a baby or a toddler anymore.  

Anyways, before I drown in a puddle of my own making, take a look at some of the fun we had this morning when I let Max explore his new surroundings.  Again, he is pure joy and he makes every day and every activity, like walking aimlessly around with no agenda, an absolute blast.  Max, I love you.

Follow the leader.

Follow the leader.

Golfer in training, making his Dad so proud.

Golfer in training, making his Dad so proud.

Exploring the books & what he thinks is a ball he can play with.  He doesn't understand art yet.

Exploring the books & what he thinks is a ball he can play with.  He doesn't understand art yet.

Everyone needs a hand chair, right?

Everyone needs a hand chair, right?

This is how Max communicates that exploring time is over and nap time should commence!

This is how Max communicates that exploring time is over and nap time should commence!