While visiting with my godkids last week, I had occasion to lament how fast they are growing up.
The oldest of the two is soon to be ten. TEN! Wow. I remember when she was just a little preemie baby, yowling when the wind blew across her little face. She was adorable, tiny and rather sour of disposition.
Now she's a bright, effusive ten year old, full of life and energy and fun.
She's been facing some rather grown up issues at school, which breaks a Nina's heart. I'd like to go to that school and give some folks the what-for.
Seeing my little girl growing up so quick made me think about a lot of things that change, drastically, as you age.
For example, I recall when goddaughter #1 was going through potty training. Her folks worked with her quite a bit to get that going. (pun sort of intended)
One evening, there were several friends visiting at the house, and goddaughter #1 came racing out of the bathroom right to the middle of the crowd. She had not a stitch of clothing on, threw her arms in the air and yelled, "I pooped in the potty!"
Well, we all applauded and congratulated and hugged her. It was a very proud group of adults.
This doesn't happen when you are 40.
If I came racing out of the john naked, right into a dinner party exclaiming my poopy prowess, well...for sure I'd not be invited back to the party. They might even see about having me talk to a "special" doctor.
Ya get no applause for bodily functions when you get past the age of, oh say, five.
How about birthdays? When you are five, you get a pile of fun presents to unwrap, your friends come have a sleep over and when they put the cake in front of you, first you blow out the candles and then everyone giggles when you put your face right down into your cake.
RIGHT down into the frosting!
Nobody thinks it is funny when you have cake all over your face when you are a grown up. People just look at you like you've lost your marbles.
It isn't fair.
Oh! And how about naps? When you are a kid, naps are required! Oh yes, much enforced! Must nap, do it now! Here is your special blanket and stuffed friend and a kiss on the forehead.
Today? A nap is a luxury. Stolen moments. Time I could have used to do something more productive.
The ubiquitous "they" say that being a grown up is a good thing.
Generally I might agree, but sometimes...........
