Big boy @ doctor's

Yesterday J had his 4-year doctors' appointment, which he thoroughly enjoyed (strange to say). It was the first wellness visit we've had that involved an eyesight and hearing exam in addition to the routine weight, height, heart rate, overall check.... And it hit me strangely. The nurse interacted directly with him, telling him where to stand or sit and what she wanted him to do. I was a bystander as he carried out her instructions, silently hoping he'd hear the dings through the ear muffs during his hearing test and correctly identify the symbols on the eye chart.

It helped me to see him more as the independent person he's becoming - a boy of his own accord who doesn't always need his mom to bridge the gap between world and him. And who will need that less and less as he grows. There I was, watching him with the earphones on his head, feeling hopeful for him and proud of him and just a smidge emotional all at the same time... Aah parenthood. Never know what's gonna hit you next, and when it might.