Tate is not our little baby anymore. We know that of course, as she is six and in kindergarten. But, she is still our firstborn and sometimes it is just hard to let go of that fact that she is no longer our little "Tae Tae" who sits still and wants to be held.
Last week for the first time, on the way to school she said, "Dad, today I want to just be dropped off." Up until recently we would park the car and walk her to the door of her classroom. As she slammed the car door shut last week and then today, strolling off along the sidewalk towards her classroom and never looking back, my eyes welled with tears. Tate is growing up. She is gaining confidence in herself and slowly her independence is growing. Little by little we are having to let her grow up into the person we trust God desires who to become each day.
It's fun to see the transformation. I think it puts a smile on God's face too when He sees his children grow up as well into mature disciples. Often times we want to stay where it is safe, where we don't have to step out and strike off on our own. He doesn't want us headed off without Him, for He always is, but trusting him in a greater capacity to become who He has called us to become. We often want to park the car and have it the easy way with having Him "walk us to the front door." Growing up is hard. Transformation is hard. As difficult as it is, as we grow in faith, I think it puts a big smile on His face to see his children grow up.
Amidst the the small tears today there was also a smile. I'm a proud daddy seeing my big girl grow up. Now if only we could wean Maya off her stinking "paci" and to poo in the toilet we will be all good. Hmm...wonder what little metaphor about that I can dream up:)
Good metaphor Derek. Hannah still wants me to park and walk her to the playground, but now she wants me to walk a few feet behind her. It makes me laugh and I am happy to oblige. She's not quite brave enough to go cold turkey...baby steps I guess. Hope you guys are well.
Posted by: The Cobbs | February 23, 2010 at 04:45 PM
oh Tate..getting so big. I bet that is hard to see her take big steps.
Now, on the Maya paci situation...since I'm the one who got her started on it...do I need to come up there and get her to stop?? :)
Posted by: janie | February 23, 2010 at 06:28 PM
Hi Keri!
Yes, it caught us off guard when all of a sudden she decided to make the switch and go it alone. I'm going to give you guys a call by Thursday to chat and give you an update!
Blessings,
DD
Posted by: Derek | February 23, 2010 at 08:23 PM
Janie!
Hmm..I had forgotten about that little detail. You might just have to pay us a visit..ha!
DD
Posted by: Derek | February 23, 2010 at 08:24 PM