That's it. No more babies for me. Now, I have children. Little kids getting bigger each day. My youngest, the 2-year-old toddler has officially left his babyhood behind. When I call him "Baby" now, he corrects me, points to himself and says, "No. Me big boy," with big, just-learning-how-to-talk pauses between each sweet word.
But it's his cheeks that get me. Suddenly, though they are still soft and kissable, they have lost that baby-soft texture. That silky, soft perfect baby cheek feel that I love so much. As if overnight, the boy has a child cheek. My heart, and my own cheeks, ache a little at the loss.
Yet, I am happy. Of course, I am elated! My children are growing into fine young people. I have finished my years of taking care of babies and though I hold them dear, I am pleased to be through them. Sleep has improved and diapers are on their way out! More often the boy asks to go "pee pee" or "poop" on Dahdah (his name for the Dora toddler toilet seat). It makes me smile and laugh.
That's it. No more babies for me. It is both beautiful and bittersweet. And I am happy.