This little man has a very strong-willed spirit. He has always been particular and opinionated about what he wants, doesn't want, likes, and dislikes. He has been a child who mostly prefers that his mother, and NO ONE else, care for him. When I say no one, I really mean that. It wasn't until his brother Trey was born that he would let his dad do much, if anything with him. Some may think that it is great to have a child who 'loves' you so much! At times, it is flattering, but overall it is just frustrating!
Since our James has 2 younger siblings it has just been expected that he grow up a bit quicker than the average child his age. He was potty-trained almost exactly 1 year ago. He got put into a big kid bed earlier than some, especially since he wasn't even attempting to crawl out of his crib. He was bumped from a high chair to a booster quickly and baths were traded for showers. At times he was not a fan of all these changes. He wasn't ready for some, but out of necessity they had to come to pass! The past year was full of much resistance and frustration from him and his parents. His strong will and determined nature were testing us to the limits.
Like the saying goes, "This too shall pass!" is true. About 2 weeks ago my James woke up and directed all his determination towards being an even bigger kid. The phrase "I do it M-Y-S-E-L-F!" entered his vocabulary and there hasn't been any looking back. The kid we couldn't get to take himself potty. The child who refused to assist you while dressing himself. The kid who wouldn't even climb in his car seat is gone. He has been replaced. Mr. James is now a selfie taking, independent 3 year old! He can dress himself, take himself potty, get in and buckle his own car seat, put on his shoes, put on his coat, and many more independent things! This past week he even gave up his booster chair and sits at the table like a big kid.
There were many days I thought that we would never see this happen. I should have known that he has his own time frame for things. The 6 year gap between him and his sister should have been the first clue. The later time frame for walking & talking should have been the next clues. Alas, I am a slow learner. It is amazing that once he decides to do something he just does it. No prodding or coercing will sway him. It has to be his idea and once it is he is full speed ahead!
Some are sad when there kids hit major milestones because it means they are growing up. I am not that person...ok there was a millisecond of wow he really is growing up...but overall I am excited! These small milestones have made life around the Ward household a bit less chaotic-ok, well at least dressing time is less chaotic. Around here we just trade forms of chaos, it doesn't really ever decrease!
James is our miracle baby that started our baby boom! We were so excited when we learned he was coming to our family. We were shocked when he was born with all his dark hair and weighing 10 lbs! He has a sweet heart and a very determined attitude. He is very detail oriented and we are excited to see what his life has in store for him! Congrats to our little, big man on growing up!
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