I have waited and hoped for this, sometimes feeling it would never come. But now my daughter slings her arm about my neck when I pick her up and carry her around. She holds onto my shoulder or my shirt when I lean down to get her something. She holds onto me.
It is comforting to me, it's like I've gone from anonymous food and love donor to Mom, source of Comfort and Good. This weekend at a party we attended, everyone wanted to hold her, but she cried every time I handed her off. This could be a difficult phase for both of us, but it also reminds me of this precarious and temporary state: I'm the one she wants.
When she wakes from a nap on my lap and looks around, then sees my face and smiles broadly, it's just about the best part of my day. You gotta like that in a girl.
I know soon enough she'll be pushing my hand away and wiggling to get off my lap, saying "I do it!" in that defiant toddler tone. But for now she's holding onto me, and I to her, fiercely and gratefully. I gotcha, baby, I gotcha, don't worry, Momma's here.
Ahhh I remember that stage very well, I have 3 little ones (ages 5, almost 8 & 11). I am happy to share with you that even though they are certainly getting more independent, they still love snuggle time with mummy :)
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you are really staying present with your daughter and all the Joy she has to offer, good for you! Enjoy!!