Bradie is now the proud owner of a little stuffed cat, a Cinderella carriage that contains pink, light blue and sparkly mega blocks, and her very first Mr. Potato head. I almost got the Little People bus too, but I found some self control, which I am sure was heaven-sent as Toys r Us is not designed with controlling self in mind. I felt a little bashful of my purchases, but I have long been lamenting to anyone who would listen that my emergent little person needs a toy makeover. I have been eyeing craigslist and had big plans to hit some consignment shops... but they all went to pot as I rounded the corner and saw the wall of stuffed animals! Bradie exclaimed, "Tiggy! Kiddy!" as I selected the perfect gray furball from the chaos.

My shameful feelings for the 30 bucks I dropped all but disappeared the next day as I watched her play INTENSELY with her Mega Block carriage for what seemed forever. Okay, it was only 15 minutes, but that is still great.

Blessing doesn't begin to describe the feeling I get while watching her play, when she is really engrossed and mommy's arms are the furthest thing from her mind. Watching those wheels turn is satisfying and exciting, but it brings into view the precipice that will haunt me over these coming years. Growth. Change. I know they are still far off, but it cannot be all a myth, that these precious years are gone in truly a blink of an eye, as my wiser peers tell me. This attitude will probably serve me well during the monotonous, trying times I am sure.

Now if only Bradie could grasp this bittersweetness that will turn to nostalgia in only a breath... it might keep her hiney still enough for a proper diaper change once in a while. Turkey.