Too Many Peoples

Today I experienced a moment of absolute parenting clarity.  We were attending our weekly play group through Easter Seals, and it was snack time.  There were about 5 kids and 3 adults gathered around two toddler-sized tables sharing some Goldfish, oranges, and juice.  As always, I asked Wes if he was ready for snack and, as always, he said no.  Just as in weeks past, we quietly watched the group from a safe distance away.  After a few moments, and without taking his large, brown eyes off of the group, Wes simply said "Too many peoples."  I looked over at him, and for a brief moment, I totally understood the tiny human standing next to me.

My sweet little boy, your apple did not fall far from the tree at all.  Where could you have found Mom or Dad on a Friday night before you were born?  Probably at home, or perhaps sitting at a table for two at a quiet restaurant.  There is a reason why we never went to school sporting events and refuse to go to Wal Mart past 9 A.M. on a Saturday.  Phrases like "team building exercises" and "group retreats" are as bad as brussel sprouts to us, and no matter how much we pretend, we will never enjoy sing-a-longs either.

What I cherish most about you now, son, is that you don't fake it.  One day you will learn you have no choice but to participate in circle time, because frankly your grade (or job) depends on it.  But for now, your actions are an uninhibited reflection of how you're feeling, and that gives us a glimpse into the not-so-little guy you are quickly becoming.  The more we know about you, the better we can wholeheartedly support and unconditionally love you as you grow.  And luckily for us, it sounds like you might want to spend a few Friday nights home with Mom and Dad as well :)